News Summary
Barberton High School has canceled its varsity football game against Highland due to significant player injuries. This decision raises concerns from Highland’s Athletic Director about the integrity of the Suburban League. Despite proposed modifications to the game, Barberton decided to uphold the cancellation. The situation has affected Highland’s homecoming festivities, prompting officials to consider Barberton’s removal from the league. Highland is planning alternative celebrations, including a pep rally and fireworks, while maintaining confidence in the community spirit.
Highland, Ohio – Barberton High School has officially canceled its varsity football game against Highland, originally scheduled for October 3, due to a significant number of player injuries that have depleted its roster size. The cancellation has prompted Highland’s Athletic Director to call for Barberton’s removal from the Suburban League, stressing concerns over the integrity and fairness of the league.
The cancellation, attributed to injuries affecting ten of Barberton’s starting players, was deemed necessary as officials determined that competing would not be safe or feasible. Highland attempted to compromise by proposing modified game conditions, including limited playing time for starters, shortened quarters, and the implementation of a running clock. Initially, Barberton agreed to these modifications; however, they later chose to uphold the cancellation.
This cancellation has not only impacted the game but also Highland’s homecoming festivities, which were planned to coincide with the match. The disappointment felt by Highland players and fans has grown as they had looked forward to celebrating homecoming with the game against Barberton.
In a formal communication to the athletic directors within the Suburban League, Highland Athletic Director Jon Bailey expressed significant concern regarding the cancellation. He indicated that such actions undermine the Suburban League’s integrity and may establish a troublesome precedent for future game cancellations. Bailey has urged for immediate and formal action to consider Barberton’s removal from the league to uphold fairness and credibility.
As of now, the Suburban League Athletic Director, Keith Walker, has opted not to comment on the unfolding situation. Moreover, Barberton officials have not responded to inquiries following the game cancellation.
In light of the cancellation, Highland is actively seeking alternative ways to commemorate its homecoming. Plans include a community pep rally and a fireworks display at North Gateway Tire Field. The festivities will feature various activities such as power-puff football games and punt, pass, and kick contests to engage the community.
The Highland Hornets are currently enjoying a strong season, holding an undefeated record of 6-0, which positions them as the top team in the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s Division II, Region 6 rankings. Conversely, Barberton’s record stands at 1-5 following a close loss to Kent Roosevelt before this recent cancellation.
Despite the unexpected turn of events regarding the game, Highland officials are expressing confidence in the community’s spirit, vowing to make the most out of the situation and ensure that homecoming remains a special occasion.
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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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