News Summary
The Highland football program is in turmoil following Coach Cory Quail’s resignation. He raised alarm about player safety, citing declining participation and injuries. Quail’s decision led to the cancellation of the next two games as the district reviews the football season’s future. Superintendent Spencer Lueders emphasized the importance of student safety, while some players have stepped up to assist with practices. The team, currently with only 13 active players, faces uncertainty as the district considers possible actions, including a full season cancellation.
Highland, Iowa – Football Coach Resigns, Calls for Cancellation of Season Due to Player Safety Concerns
The Highland football program in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, faces significant upheaval after Coach Cory Quail resigned from his position as head coach citing concerns over player safety and calling for the immediate suspension of the ongoing season.
Coach Quail’s Resignation and Motivation
Quail announced his resignation via Facebook, emphasizing that his decision was made to protect players and foster a safer environment. His move aims to encourage the school to cancel the remaining games of the season. Quail highlighted declining participation numbers and an increase in injuries among players as primary concerns, which prompted his stance.
He pointed to a specific incident during a recent game where receivers had to wear lineman jerseys, illustrating safety issues and equipment mismatches. Quail stressed that he would not risk players’ safety for competition or personal ego.
Impact on the Highland Football Program
Following Quail’s resignation, Highland has canceled its next two football games, citing player safety as the reason. The district has acknowledged these cancellations and indicated it is now evaluating the future of the football season through a comprehensive review process.
Superintendent Spencer Lueders stated that the district is focused on creating a safe experience for students. He also highlighted the resilience of the football players amidst these challenges, noting that some players have volunteered to assist with junior high practices during the cancellation of games.
Discussions and Possible Actions
The district is actively considering all options, including canceling the entire season or permitting Highland players to join another district’s team. A decision is expected to be made by next week, which will determine the team’s future for this season.
Currently, Highland’s football team has only 13 active players after a recent 40-7 loss to Wapello. The team does not have an interim coach following Quail’s departure; however, the existing staff is managing daily operations.
Additional Comments and Program Continuity
Quail clarified that he is not quitting Highland entirely and will remain involved as a physical education teacher. He expressed a commitment to continue working with strength and conditioning programs to support student athletes, despite the season’s uncertainties. Quail also emphasized his dedication to ensuring that the current challenges do not define Highland’s football program.
Broader Context
Highland is not alone in facing difficulties. Siouxland Christian has already canceled its football season due to similar concerns regarding player safety and participation issues. This indicates a broader trend among local schools grappling with the challenges of maintaining safe and competitive sports programs during ongoing safety concerns.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The Gazette: Tim Lovell Steps Down as Linn-Mar Football Coach
- Wikipedia: High School Football
- The Gazette: Jeff Gordon Steps Down as Iowa City Liberty Football Coach
- Google Search: High School Football Safety
- The Gazette: Ryan Luehrsmann Resigns as Head Boys Basketball Coach at Cedar Rapids Xavier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Athletics (Sport)
- The Gazette: Kent Allison Steps Down as Football Coach at Lisbon
- Google News: High School Football Resignation
- The Gazette: Morrissey Leaving Prairie for Arizona
- Google Scholar: High School Athlete Safety
- The Gazette: Lewis Resigns as Kennedy Coach Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
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