On Friday morning, Oberlin High School announced it was canceling the football season this year due to a lack of players.
A letter sent out to the district said the program has tried to recruit players, but participation remains below average.
Last Thursday, 12 athletes attended practice. That number dwindled to five on Friday.
Mandatory camp began on Monday, and only eight players showed up.
The district said it is concerned that players will face an unfair physical burden and be at increased risk of injury.
"This is not a decision anyone wanted to make. We recognize that football is an important tradition in Oberlin and that this situation affects not only our football players, but also our cheerleaders, marching band members, families, alumni, and the many community members who make Friday nights special. We share in the disappointment felt throughout our school community," the district said.
Although the district said enrollment has increased slightly, that has not been the case with the football program.
The district is seeking other schools that may allow their players to join their teams.
According to the district, the marching band season will not be impacted by this decision, and they will find other ways for the students to perform.
The district is working with the cheerleaders to find alternative sports for the team to cheer at.
