On Monday, November 17, 2025, parents and guardians of Falls City Public School 8th -11th grade football players were invited to the High School library for a discussion on whether to continue playing 11-man football or falling to 8-man for two years. Parents of 7th grade students, students, assistant coaches and the media were not permitted in the meeting.
The following is a press release issued by Falls City Administration. The following statement is a summary of a meeting held on November 17th, at the FCHS Media Center. The criteria for attendance at the meeting were parents of current and prospective 8th -11th grade football players. The meeting was to give information related to the “state of our football program” and gather information from the parents that would impact the decision to play 8- man or 11-man football.
Administration wanted the meeting to be smaller so current and prospective play-ers’ parents could speak openly, honestly, and freely. We believe that goal was accomplished. It was not a meeting to discuss the former coach and his removal. Twenty-three players parents attended the meeting.
The football program faces low participation, with a majority of underclassmen and significant safety concerns if remaining in 11-man football. The choice between 8-man and 11-man football centers on safety, participation, player development, and playoff eligibility.
8-man football is favored by most stakeholders for safety and increased Junior Varsity opportunities, despite temporary playoff ineligibility. The school board will receive a recommendation by administration and will make the final decision based on yesterday’s meeting and student survey information.
Parents felt the coaching changes may have impacted morale and may affect fu-ture participation; it was also stated that a coaching change could lead to players returning to the sport, to be determined.
Building a positive experience for athletes, increasing participation, and developing young players are key long-term goals. If the decision is to play 8-man, The school would be looking again at the next 2-year cycle to return to 11-man foot-ball and become playoff eligible. The community is encouraged to focus on supporting students/athletes and recruiting more players, regardless of format or coach.
A special Falls City Public Schools Board of Education Meeting, will take place, Monday, November 24, 2025 at 5:00:00 PM. where discussion and action will take place on going 11 man or 8 man for football for the next two-year cycle.