Jenkintown High School has cancelled its football season after only two matches, with school leaders saying a shortage of players created unacceptable safety concerns.
The Pennsylvania school’s principal, Thomas Roller, and athletic director, Aubrie Breisblatt, told the community that the decision followed difficulties maintaining a full roster and securing consistent participation despite efforts by the coaching staff to recruit more players.
They said continuing the campaign would have placed excessive physical demands on a small number of students. “Continuing competition for the remainder of the season would not be in the best interest of our student-athletes, particularly from a safety standpoint,” they wrote.
The Jenkintown Drakes lost both of their opening games without scoring, falling 7-0 to Vaux Big Picture on 4 September and 39-0 to Renaissance Academy a week later.
Jenkintown football programme faces review
The team had been due to play Lower Moreland on Friday, 25 September, but that fixture and the remainder of the scheduled campaign have been called off.
Officials said no final decision had been made on the long-term future of the football programme. The district will work with its coaching and athletics staff to consider a sustainable way forward while continuing to prioritise student safety and meaningful sporting opportunities.
Although the Drakes will not play competitively again this year, coaches are expected to continue working with students who remain committed to the programme. That will include training sessions, skill development, strength and conditioning work.
School leaders acknowledged that the cancellation would be disappointing for players, families, coaches and the wider community, while thanking those who continued to attend training and represent Jenkintown during a difficult season.
