Highland, Ohio, October 3, 2025
News Summary
Barberton High School has canceled its varsity football game against Highland due to multiple injuries affecting their roster. The decision was made for player safety, as ten starters are injured. Highland’s homecoming festivities were set to coincide with the game, leading to disappointment among fans. Highland’s Athletic Director raised concerns about the impact on the Suburban League’s integrity, suggesting possible removal of Barberton from the league. Highland is planning alternative celebrations, including a community pep rally and fireworks to maintain community spirit.
Highland, Ohio – Barberton High School has officially canceled its varsity football game against Highland, scheduled for October 3, due to a significant number of player injuries that have adversely affected their roster size. The administrative decision was made amid concerns regarding player safety and the feasibility of competing under such circumstances.
Highland officials reported that ten of Barberton’s starting players are currently injured, which prompted the cancellation announcement. Initially, Barberton had agreed to adapt the game conditions by proposing limited playing time for starters, shorter quarters, and a running clock. However, as the date approached, Barberton reversed its stance and opted not to play.
This game cancellation has drawn attention particularly for Highland, whose homecoming festivities were set to coincide with the matchup, leading to increased disappointment among fans and students. In light of this, Highland’s Athletic Director, Jon Bailey, has voiced serious concerns in an email directed to the Suburban League Athletic Directors. Bailey argued that Barberton’s actions compromise the integrity and credibility of the Suburban League, suggesting that such a precedent of cancellations could disrupt future seasons.
As a response to these events, Bailey has recommended that the league consider formal actions to remove Barberton from the Suburban League to uphold fairness and integrity within the athletic conference. The Suburban League Athletic Director, Keith Walker, has not provided any comments regarding this matter, while Barberton officials have remained silent following the cancellation news.
The Highland Hornets, boasting an impressive undefeated record of 6-0, are ranked first in the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s Division II, Region 6 rankings. In contrast, Barberton currently holds a record of 1-5 after suffering a close loss to Kent Roosevelt leading up to the cancellation.
Despite the disappointment surrounding the canceled game, Highland High School is taking proactive measures to ensure that their homecoming celebrations continue. Alternative plans include organizing a community pep rally and a fireworks show at North Gateway Tire Field. The scheduled festivities will offer various activities such as power-puff football games and punt, pass, and kick contests, showcasing Highland’s community spirit and resilience during this unexpected situation.
The Highland Athletic Department remains optimistic that the community will come together in celebration, redirecting focus from the canceled game to enjoy what they can during their homecoming events.
Key Details
| Event | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Highland vs. Barberton Varsity Football Game | October 3 | Cancelled |
| Highland Homecoming Pep Rally | To Be Determined | Planned |
| Highland Record | N/A | 6-0 |
| Barberton Record | N/A | 1-5 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the cancellation of the Highland vs. Barberton football game?
The game was canceled due to a significant number of player injuries on the Barberton team, which raised safety concerns regarding their ability to compete.
How many players from Barberton are injured?
Barberton reported that ten of their starting players are currently injured, which reduced their roster size and influenced the decision to cancel.
What alternative plans does Highland have for homecoming?
Highland is organizing a community pep rally and fireworks show, along with activities like power-puff football games and punt, pass, and kick contests to celebrate homecoming.
What was Highland’s record before the cancellation?
The Highland Hornets currently stand undefeated with a record of 6-0 and hold the top ranking in Ohio’s Division II, Region 6.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WKYC: Barberton High School Football Game Canceled
- Beacon Journal: Highland Athletic Director on Barberton Removal
- News 5 Cleveland: Barberton Cancels Homecoming Football Game
- USA Today High School Sports: Barberton vs. Highland Canceled Game
- Cleveland.com: Highland vs. Barberton Football Game Canceled
- Wikipedia: Ohio High School Athletic Association
- Google Search: Highland High School Football
- Google Scholar: High School Football Injuries
- Encyclopedia Britannica: High School
- Google News: Highland Barberton Football Cancellation
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
