High school cancels remainder of varsity football season due to not having enough healthy players

BLADENBORO, N.C. (WECT/Gray News) - A North Carolina high school has canceled the remainder of its varsity football season because of a depleted roster.

West Bladen High School officials said the team does not have enough healthy players to safely take the field.

The decision was made following a joint meeting between school administrators, athletic officials and coaching staff.

The administration said it determined the Knights lacked the depth needed to safely endure the physical demands of varsity play.

With limited substitutes available, leaders noted that they feared student-athletes could not be properly rotated or replaced in the event of injury or fatigue.

“We recognize the tremendous commitment our student-athletes, coaches, families, and supporters have made to this football program,” West Bladen Principal Chris Orrock said. “We understand how difficult this decision is. However, our responsibility is to make decisions that prioritize the health and safety of our students.”

School and district leaders met with players and their families Thursday to explain the move.

“This decision does not diminish their hard work or the commitment they have shown to their teammates, coaches, school, and community,” West Bladen Athletic Director Brett Jackson said. “We will continue to support our student-athletes and families as we move forward.”

School leaders added they are working to salvage community events planned around the Oct. 2 homecoming date. Officials said they are hoping to move a junior varsity game to that date, which would allow the school to proceed with its scheduled fundraiser and an appearance by the U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute team.