BOX ELDER, S.D. – Douglas High School has forfeited its varsity football game against Yankton scheduled for Oct. 16 because of a shortage of healthy players on the roster.
In a letter to families and community members, school officials said the decision was made out of an abundance of caution after ongoing injuries significantly reduced the number of available athletes.
School leaders emphasized that student safety was the primary factor in the decision, stating that fielding a team under current conditions would place players at an unacceptable risk of injury.
While acknowledging the disappointment for athletes, families, and fans, Douglas administrators said protecting the long-term health and recovery of student-athletes must come first.
The announcement was made jointly by Activities Director Josh Haaland and Principal Beau Voegeli.
As a result of the forfeiture, Douglas will not travel to Yankton for Friday’s scheduled matchup.
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