News Summary

The Fauquier County School Board is discussing the potential reinstatement of middle school football, a sport cut in 2012 due to budget constraints and safety concerns. Community feedback and support are essential as plans to gauge interest through a survey are underway. If approved, middle school football could return by fall 2026, reigniting a cherished local tradition. Budget estimates show significant financial commitments needed for equipment and ongoing operational costs.

Fauquier County School Board Explores Bringing Back Middle School Football

In the scenic city of Fauquier County, there’s exciting news buzzing around town! The Fauquier County School Board is diving into discussions about the potential reinstatement of middle school football, a beloved sport that was unfortunately cut back in 2012 due to budget limitations. As community members reminisce about the days when young athletes donned their pads and helmets, the prospect of bringing back this sport has sparked quite a bit of interest.

A Look Back at the Cut

Back in 2012, *financial constraints* led to the decision to cut middle school football, which left many young enthusiasts without the chance to participate in a sport that fosters teamwork, discipline, and a sense of community. Since then, the Fauquier Youth Football organization has stepped up to fill this gap, creating partnerships with local youth leagues and even starting a middle school division in 2013 to keep the love of the game alive.

Safety and Budget Concerns

Previous Explorations into the subject have been cautious, with former Superintendent advocating for a wider variety of middle school sports. However, football was kept on the sidelines primarily due to *safety concerns* related to concussions, along with the considerable costs involved. The latest push for revival began at a December 2024 summit when a Lee District representative brought the idea back to the table.

Crunching the Numbers

Every great plan begins with numbers, and Assistant Superintendent David Graham has laid out an estimated *one-time startup cost* of $209,000 necessary to get the ball rolling on reinstating middle school football. This hefty figure covers a range of essentials for the athletes:

  • Helmets and Pads: $96,000 for approximately 240 students
  • Game Uniforms: $42,000
  • Practice Uniforms: $24,000
  • Blocking Sleds: $14,000
  • Additional costs for tackling dummies and medical kits

But the financial responsibilities don’t stop there! The expected *annual operational cost* would hover around $80,046 to cover ongoing expenses like uniform maintenance, coaching stipends, field upkeep, equipment reconditioning, and transportation for the team.

Transportation Woes

Transportation hurdles could pose a significant challenge. With an additional $34,650 needed just for middle school sports transportation, there are questions about bus availability. The division has been grappling with double bus runs and a shortage of substitutes, making reliable transportation a major talking point among board members.

Community Involvement

Board Chair has underscored the importance of funding sustainability and robust community support before making any final decisions. She’s not alone in this thinking, as many board members believe that without a solid foundation of community engagement and sponsorships, the rejuvenation of middle school football may be shaky.

Gathering Insights

As talks progress, plans are in the works to survey the middle school community in April to gauge interest and gather feedback. Notably, input from high school athletic departments will also be taken into consideration, especially about how a middle school football program might impact freshman rosters.

A Future of Possibilities

Looking ahead, if the proposal receives the green light, Fauquier County could see middle school football returning by fall 2026. The enthusiasm surrounding this potential revival is palpable, sparking discussions among parents and students alike who are eager to once again rally under Friday night lights.

Conclusion

The decision rests on weighing the financial, logistical, and community-driven elements carefully. As the Fauquier County School Board continues to explore these options, the hope for a new generation of young football players shines brightly in the hearts of many!

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