Two Washington high school football programs, Todd Beamer and Hazen High School, are ending their varsity seasons early.
Both school districts and coaches determined they no longer have enough players to safely field their teams. Officials at both schools cited player availability and safety concerns.
Todd Beamer Head Football Coach Rodney McCurry said his team has lost a significant portion of its roster to season-ending injuries.
“We just don’t want to put our young guys out there to get hurt,” McCurry said.
McCurry said coaches evaluated the health of their roster, as injuries continued to mount throughout the season.
“We took a hard look at our health, and we were rapidly having season-ending injuries every game,” McCurry said.
Hazen High School is facing a similar situation. In a letter sent by the school’s principal, officials attributed the decision to injuries, attrition, and academic suspensions.
Andy Barnes with the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association said individual schools and leagues are best positioned to evaluate their circumstances.
“They know what’s going on in their communities and their schools and have to deal with all of that in the league,” Barnes said.
While the teams’ regular varsity seasons are ending early, football is not necessarily over for their players.
The WIAA said both schools are looking at playing exhibition junior varsity games and potentially scheduling varsity games against smaller schools at the 2A and 1A levels.
“I’m glad they are able to continue that process and will continue to work with the schools to help them navigate this,” Barnes said.
Todd Beamer and Hazen are also expected to take the field against each other Friday at Renton Memorial Stadium.
“We’re going to line up with Hazen and give our best, and they’re going to give their best, and it’s going to be a great football game,” McCurry said.
For McCurry, the challenges his players have faced this season also provide a lesson that extends beyond football.
“We have to adapt and that is what we want to show our kids, that a little adversity in a positive manner is just how you live life,” McCurry said.