Mount View High School’s football team is facing challenges with low numbers as they navigate the eight-man season. Despite suffering injuries and a blowout loss in a recent game, players like sophomore Brody Ward are determined to keep pushing forward and building the program. The team was forced to halt their season opener against Telstar due to injuries but managed to complete their second game against Spruce Mountain with a smaller roster.
The struggles faced by Mount View highlight the issue of declining participation numbers in football, a trend that has been observed nationally as well. With an increase in football-related injuries, schools like Mount View are finding it difficult to compete with enough healthy players on the field. The pressure to maintain a varsity team and avoid dropping to a JV schedule is a constant concern for programs like Mount View.
Coaches and administrators at Mount View are working on building up their middle school program to ensure the sustainability of the high school team in the future. Despite the challenges, there is a sense of determination and optimism among the team as they aim to improve and grow each week. Mount View’s coach, Gerald Hartley, looks to successful programs like Orono for inspiration, as they have overcome similar struggles in the past to become state champions.
As the Mount View Mustangs continue to navigate their season with small numbers, they are focused on the long-term goal of building a competitive and sustainable football program for the future.
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