News Summary
Barberton High School has canceled its varsity football game against Highland, originally set for October 3, due to injuries affecting a significant portion of its roster. Despite Highland’s efforts to modify the game conditions, Barberton decided against playing, raising concerns about fairness within the Suburban League. Athletic Director Jon Bailey voiced worries over the impact of Barberton’s withdrawal on league integrity. The cancellation comes just as Highland prepares for homecoming celebrations, leaving the community to seek alternative ways to celebrate amidst their undefeated season.
Highland, Ohio – Barberton High School has officially canceled its upcoming varsity football game against Highland, which was scheduled for October 3. The cancellation comes in response to a significant number of injuries among Barberton players, resulting in a diminished roster size that officials deemed unsafe for competition. Highland reported that ten of Barberton’s starting athletes are currently unable to participate due to their injuries.
Initially, Highland attempted to keep the game on the schedule by proposing modified conditions. They suggested that the game could proceed with limited playing time for starters, abbreviated quarters, and a running clock to accommodate Barberton’s situation. Barberton had initially agreed to these adjustments; however, they ultimately decided against playing, leading to the cancellation.
The cancellation has sparked concern from Highland Athletic Director Jon Bailey. He reached out to fellow athletic directors in the Suburban League, expressing his worry that Barberton’s withdrawal undermines the integrity and credibility of the league. Bailey suggested that such a cancellation could set a dangerous precedent for future scheduling and fairness in the league. In light of these events, he proposed formal action to remove Barberton from the Suburban League altogether.
Keith Walker, the Suburban League’s Athletic Director, has chosen not to comment on the issue thus far. Barberton officials have also not responded to inquiries concerning the cancellation.
The timing of the canceled game is particularly disappointing for Highland, as it coincides with their homecoming festivities. Highland had prepared a series of celebrations including events centered around school spirit and unity, which were planned to enrich the homecoming experience. Instead, Highland is now looking for alternative ways to celebrate the occasion, such as organizing a community pep rally and a fireworks display. These festivities will take place at North Gateway Tire Field and will include activities like power-puff football games and punt, pass, and kick contests.
As for the teams’ current standings, Highland is enjoying a successful season, remaining undefeated with a record of 6-0 and holding the number-one rank in the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s Division II, Region 6 rankings. Conversely, Barberton has struggled this season, currently holding a record of 1-5, following a narrow loss to Kent Roosevelt just before the cancellation was announced.
Highland has expressed confidence in navigating the unexpected change in their plans, focusing on making the most out of the situation despite the absence of a game. The community spirit continues to shine through as Highland prepares to celebrate homecoming, underscoring the resilience and unity of its student body and supporters.
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Additional Resources
- WKYC: Barberton High School Football Game Canceled
- Beacon Journal: Highland Athletic Director on Barberton Removal
- News 5 Cleveland: Barberton Cancels Homecoming Football Game
- USA Today High School Sports: Barberton vs. Highland Canceled Game
- Cleveland.com: Highland vs. Barberton Football Game Canceled
- Wikipedia: Ohio High School Athletic Association
- Google Search: Highland High School Football
- Google Scholar: High School Football Injuries
- Encyclopedia Britannica: High School
- Google News: Highland Barberton Football Cancellation
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MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.
