Texas high school cancels football for two full seasons

Keene ISD, located in Keene, TX, has decided to cancel the remainder of the 2026 high school varsity football season as well as the entire 2027 season. The announcement was made on social media on Tuesday, Sept. 22, citing a high number of injuries and a shortage of healthy players. School officials expressed deep regret for the disruption to students, coaches, and the community.

The decision was not taken lightly, as canceling games against district partners was a difficult choice. The Chargers finished their inaugural year in the University Interscholastic League with a 1-3 record. Keene's football program began at the junior high level in 2021, and the team played an outlaw varsity schedule in 2025. Despite the challenges, the district plans to honor remaining junior high games and explore scheduling opportunities for remaining high school players against JV teams or smaller private schools.