Blackwell High School: "We WILL have a football program"

At its regular meeting on June 10, the Blackwell Board of Education addressed a persistent online rumor claiming that Blackwell High School would be eliminating its football program — a claim school leaders firmly denied.

The rumor surfaced shortly after the school year ended, circulating online and suggesting that the BHS football team would not return for the Fall 2025 season due to low participation in the program’s “Summer Pride” conditioning sessions.

Blackwell High School Principal Gerry Magin took the opportunity during the meeting to set the record straight.

“We are having football this year,” Magin stated emphatically. “We have incredible coaches across all of our athletic programs who are committed to our students and to continuing to strengthen Blackwell’s legacy.”

Magin also shared his desire to see a more cohesive and structured approach to athletics in the district, suggesting a curriculum that would bridge middle school and high school sports—just as academic subjects do.

Board members echoed his sentiments and pushed back against a common perception that Blackwell Public Schools only prioritize its championship-winning wrestling program.

“That couldn’t be further from the truth,” Magin said. “I can personally state that, at the high school level, all of our programs are important and celebrated. Our coaching staff goes above and beyond for these kids. With the community’s support, all of our teams will continue to make us proud.”

The Board closed the discussion by reaffirming its commitment to all student-athletes and athletic programs, encouraging continued community support as preparations for the new school year begin.