West Bladen cancels remainder of varsity football season due to safety concerns

ELIZABETHTOWN, NC (WWAY) — West Bladen High School has canceled the remainder of its varsity football season because of concerns about the team’s roster and the number of healthy players available.

Principal Chris Orrock announced the decision after a meeting with Superintendent Dr. Jason Atkinson, District Athletic Director Patty Evers, West Bladen Athletic Director Brett Jackson and Head Football Coach Preston Worley.

School officials said the current roster does not provide enough depth to safely compete at the varsity level. With a limited number of available players, coaches have fewer options to rotate players or replace starters in the event of injuries or fatigue.

“The health and safety of students will always remain the school and district’s highest priority,” Orrock said.

A meeting was held Thursday, Sept. 24, with football players and parents to explain the decision.

The school said it is also working to preserve activities scheduled for Oct. 2. West Bladen is considering moving a junior varsity football game to that date so the school can still hold its Tackle Out Cancer event and a scheduled appearance by the Golden Knights.

The school said additional information about the Oct. 2 schedule will be shared once details are finalized.

“We are incredibly proud of the dedication these student-athletes have demonstrated throughout the season,” Jackson said. “This decision does not diminish their hard work or the commitment they have shown to their teammates, coaches, school, and community.”