News Summary
Barberton High School has canceled its varsity football game against Highland due to a significant number of player injuries that made competition unsafe. Highland attempted to modify game conditions to salvage the match, but Barberton ultimately declined to play, leading to disappointment as the game was to coincide with Highland’s homecoming. Highland’s Athletic Director voiced concerns about the decision’s impact on the Suburban League’s integrity and suggested potential removal of Barberton from the league. Despite the cancellation, Highland is planning alternative homecoming celebrations.
Highland – Barberton High School has officially canceled its varsity football game against Highland, which was set to take place on October 3. The decision came as a result of an alarming number of player injuries, which have significantly reduced Barberton’s roster size, rendering competition unsafe and impractical according to the school’s officials. Highland officials reported that as many as ten of Barberton’s starting players are currently sidelined due to injuries.
In response to Barberton’s concerns, Highland officials proposed modifications to the game conditions in an attempt to salvage the match. These adaptations included limiting playing time for starters, implementing abbreviated quarters, and utilizing a running clock. Initially, Barberton appeared receptive to these changes; however, the school ultimately elected not to play. This cancellation is particularly disappointing for Highland, as the game was intended to coincide with their homecoming festivities.
Following the cancellation, Highland Athletic Director Jon Bailey expressed his concern regarding the implications of Barberton’s withdrawal on the Suburban League’s integrity and credibility. In an email sent to fellow Athletic Directors within the league, Bailey suggested that such cancellations could set a troubling precedent for future games and recommended taking formal action to remove Barberton from the Suburban League to preserve fairness.
While Highland’s Athletic Director called for action, Suburban League Athletic Director Keith Walker opted not to comment on the situation. No officials from Barberton responded to inquiries about the cancellation by the time of this report.
As a result of the unexpected cancellation, Highland is actively seeking alternative ways to celebrate their homecoming. Plans now include hosting a community pep rally and fireworks display at North Gateway Tire Field, with additional activities planned such as power-puff football games and punt, pass, and kick contests. Despite the setback caused by the game cancellation, Highland officials remain optimistic about maintaining community spirit and maximizing the celebration with the alternatives being organized.
On the field, Highland boasts an undefeated record of 6-0, positioning them at the top of the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s Division II, Region 6 rankings. Conversely, Barberton has struggled this season, currently holding a record of 1-5 following a narrow loss to Kent Roosevelt prior to the game cancellation. As Highland embraces its upcoming festivities, the sense of anticipation within the community remains strong, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.
Community support for Highland remains unwavering, emphasizing a positive outlook as they navigate this unexpected turn of events. With preparations underway for a memorable homecoming celebration, the focus now shifts from the anticipated match-up to fostering community spirit and unity in the face of challenges.
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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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