Springfield Central’s varsity football season is in question after several teams canceled their games against the Bulldogs. At least five teams, including crosstown rival Hillcrest, have dropped Central from their schedules.

Background

Last year, Springfield Public Schools canceled Central’s varsity football season due to safety concerns caused by a lack of players. The team had only about 25 players, including several freshmen, report to August camp.

This year, the situation seems similar, with teams like East Newton, Moberly, Cassville, and Seneca posting openings for games initially scheduled against Central. Hillcrest’s head coach, Keegan Ganz, confirmed that the August 28 game against Central is off.

Central football coach John Ely did not respond to requests for comment on the status of his team. It is unclear whether Central or its opponents dropped the games or if the Bulldogs plan to pursue a junior varsity schedule.

Original reporting: Springfield Daily Citizen — read the source article.