The Future Of Youth & Junior High Tackle Football Up For Debate

What does the future of tackle youth and junior high football hold? With declining participation numbers at the high school level, local coaches are weighing in on what impact the lower levels play in cultivating the sport. Rockridge head coach Sam Graves is okay with tackle football at the 7th and 8th grade levels, but not at the lower grades.

Sherrard head coach Scott Monson says the subject is a discussion item among the Prairieland Junior High Conference.

The Prairieland Junior High Conference includes Mercer County, Sherrard, Rockridge, Knoxville, Orion and Monmouth-Roseville.  A number of area schools have gone to fall baseball—including United, West Central, Galva and Stark County.