The football field at Moore Catholic High School, now quiet due to the program's suspension
Staten Island, New York, July 26, 2025
Moore Catholic High School in Staten Island has suspended its varsity football program for the next season due to player safety concerns and a significant decline in participation levels. Athletic Director Mike Ponsiglione confirmed that the team currently has only 21 players, prompting the administration to prioritize student-athlete safety. The suspension is meant to be temporary as the school plans to reassess and potentially restructure its football program, with hopes of reviving it in the 2026 season and possibly introducing a freshman team.
Moore Catholic High School has officially announced the suspension of its varsity football program for the upcoming 2025 season due to player safety concerns and a significant decline in participation levels. The decision was made by Athletic Director Mike Ponsiglione, with reports confirming the move.
The primary factors leading to the suspension involve ongoing challenges related to the health and well-being of student-athletes and the inability to maintain a full roster. Currently, the football team comprises only 21 players, raising serious questions about the safety and feasibility of fielding a competitive team. The administration emphasized that player safety is the top priority, which ultimately played a crucial role in this decision.
In recent years, the Moore Catholic football program has experienced a notable decline in numbers. Following the departure of former head coach Nick Giannatasio, there has been an influx of player transfers to rival schools, further straining the roster. Despite the hiring of Anthony Barnes as the new head coach, participation numbers remained low, making it challenging to compete effectively. Last season, the team ended with a record of 5-6, plagued by injuries and ongoing roster issues.
The school’s administration stated that the suspension of the program is intended as a temporary pause rather than permanent dissolution. During this hiatus, Moore Catholic plans to reassess and potentially restructure the football program to foster a safer and more sustainable environment for student-athletes. There is also consideration for establishing a freshman team as part of the program’s revival efforts in 2026.
This situation reflects a wider trend across the country, as high school football programs are increasingly grappling with similar challenges related to participation and safety. Moore Catholic is not alone in facing these significant issues that can threaten the viability of football at the high school level.
The response from the Moore Catholic community has been mixed. Some parents and students expressed disappointment at the program’s suspension, feeling that football is an essential part of school spirit and student life. Others, however, recognized the administration’s commitment to ensuring the health and safety of the student-athletes, appreciating the tough decisions that need to be made.
Emails have been sent to stakeholders within the Moore Catholic community to inform them of the decision regarding the football program’s suspension. The administration emphasized the importance of aligning the football program with the school’s broader mission and vision during this time of reevaluation.
The suspension of the Moore Catholic High School varsity football program highlights significant issues surrounding player safety and participation in high school sports. The administration’s plan to reassess the program’s structure aims to ensure a safer and more sustainable experience for future athletes.
The football program has been suspended primarily due to safety concerns and a significant decline in the number of players participating on the team.
Currently, the football roster consists of only 21 players, which raises safety concerns when attempting to field a competitive team.
The administration plans to reassess and potentially restructure the football program, with hopes to revive it and possibly establish a freshman team for the 2026 season.
The community has shown mixed reactions, with some feeling disappointed while others understand the importance of prioritizing safety for student-athletes.
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