It has been formally announced that a big change is coming to Cordell Blue Devil High School Football. Please read below the press release provided by Cordell’s Superintendent Sam Belcher.
To Our Cordell Community, Families, and Supporters,
We want to inform you of an important change to our high school football program beginning this fall season. After careful consideration and extensive discussions, the Cordell Blue Devils football team will be transitioning from 11-man football to 8-man football.
This decision was not made lightly. Over the past few years, we have experienced a steady decline in student participation in football, and we have also placed a strong emphasis on player safety. With these factors in mind, we submitted a formal proposal to the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Athletic Association (OSSAA), requesting approval to move to 8-man football. We are pleased to share that our request was granted, and we are excited about this new chapter for our football program.
We firmly believe that this transition is in the best interest of our student-athletes. 8-man football allows for greater participation, improved safety, and a better opportunity for our players to compete, develop, and succeed. Most importantly, it provides a sustainable path forward for our football program to grow and thrive in the years to come.
We understand that this change may come with some unfamiliar territory-not just for our athletes and coaching staff, but for our fans and supporters as well. We ask for your patience and support as we navigate scheduling adjustments and work through the logistics of the season. While the schedule may not be perfect, please know that we are doing everything we can to provide our players with the best possible experience both this season and in the future.
Our commitment to improving and developing our football program remains strong. We are confident that with time, dedication, and community support, the Cordell Blue Devils will continue to build a football tradition that makes all of us proud.
Thank you for standing with us as we embrace this transition. We look forward to your continued support and enthusiasm as we begin this exciting new era of Cordell football.
Go Big Blue!
Sincerely, Sam Belcher Superintendent