News Summary
Barberton High School has canceled its varsity football game against Highland due to a significant number of player injuries. Highland officials indicated that ten starters are injured, making it unsafe to compete. Attempts to modify game conditions were initially accepted but later led to Barberton’s withdrawal. The cancellation is disappointing for Highland as it coincided with homecoming festivities. The Highland Hornets, unbeaten this season, are exploring alternative celebrations while expressing concerns over the implications for the Suburban League.
Highland, Ohio – Barberton High School has officially canceled its varsity football game against Highland, scheduled for October 3, due to a significant number of player injuries that have left the roster depleted. Highland officials indicated that ten of Barberton’s starting players are currently injured, prompting the decision that competing would not be safe or feasible.
Highland attempted to keep the game on schedule by proposing modifications to the game conditions. These included limiting playing time for starters, shortening the quarters, and implementing a running clock. Initially, Barberton agreed to this modified plan; however, they later opted to withdraw from the match entirely, leading to disappointment among Highland’s players and fans.
Adding to this disappointment is that the game was to coincide with Highland’s homecoming festivities, an event marked by community pride and celebration. With the cancellation now confirmed, Highland has started exploring alternate ways to celebrate homecoming, such as organizing a community pep rally and fireworks display. This event will include activities like power-puff football games and punt, pass, and kick contests at North Gateway Tire Field.
In response to the cancellation, Highland Athletic Director Jon Bailey expressed concern over the implications for the Suburban League. In a communication to fellow Athletic Directors within the league, Bailey stated that Barberton’s decision could undermine the integrity and credibility of the league. He suggested that formal action should be considered to remove Barberton from the Suburban League as a measure to uphold fairness and maintain the competitive spirit among member schools.
The Suburban League Athletic Director, Keith Walker, has declined to comment publicly on the situation as it unfolds. Following the cancellation of the game, Barberton officials have not responded to multiple inquiries regarding their decision.
Currently, the Highland Hornets hold an undefeated record of 6-0 and are ranked first in the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s Division II, Region 6 rankings. In contrast, Barberton’s record stands at 1-5 after suffering a close loss to Kent Roosevelt prior to the cancellation of the game against Highland.
Despite the setbacks caused by the canceled game, Highland has conveyed optimism about making the most of the homecoming weekend and strengthening community spirit. The planned festivities aim to bring together students, families, and supporters in celebration, even in the absence of a football game.
This incident highlights the challenges faced by high school athletic programs, particularly in managing player safety and health in the wake of injuries. As the season progresses, the response from the Suburban League and future interactions between its member schools could significantly impact how similar situations are handled going forward.
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Additional Resources
- WKYC: Barberton High School Football Game Canceled
- Beacon Journal: Highland Athletic Director on Barberton Removal
- News 5 Cleveland: Barberton Cancels Homecoming Football Game
- USA Today High School Sports: Barberton vs. Highland Canceled Game
- Cleveland.com: Highland vs. Barberton Football Game Canceled
- Wikipedia: Ohio High School Athletic Association
- Google Search: Highland High School Football
- Google Scholar: High School Football Injuries
- Encyclopedia Britannica: High School
- Google News: Highland Barberton Football Cancellation
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