OAKLAND, Neb.- After months of monitoring player interest and turnout, a Class-C school has made the decision to forgo a varsity 11-man football roster and instead pursue a Junior Varsity schedule in the 8-man format.

Oakland-Craig Public Schools has announced a significant change to its high school football program for the 2025 season due to low participation numbers.

District officials say they hoped for at least 18 students to participate, the number believed necessary to safely support an 11-man varsity team. However, only 14 students attended the first official day of practice, prompting the administration to reevaluate the program’s direction.

According to the Nebraska School Activities Association, the Oakland-Craig Knights haven’t missed the playoffs since 2007 and won a state title in 2019. The decision comes after the Knights' 6-4 overall season last year.

The current male enrollment in grades 9–11 is 46, compared to a seven-year average of 52. While this difference may seem small, only 30% of male students are participating in football this fall, which is well below the seven-year average of 67%.

According to the district, this reflects a decline in participation and engagement in football, resulting in the decision not to compete at the varsity level this fall.

In addition to high school adjustments, Oakland-Craig is transitioning its youth football program to the 8-man format this fall to ensure consistency and long-term development.

The district remains optimistic with encouraging participation from younger students, viewing the year as  “transitional,” that will ultimately help strengthen the football program.