Coxsackie-Athens has canceled varsity football for the rest of the school year. The district says there aren’t enough eligible players.

The season began with 30 players signed up, according to Athletic Director Curtis Wilkinson. However, only 24 decided to participate on the team. Then 6 of those 24 quit in season, and 3 others were hurt and couldn’t play, he said.

“The decision was not made lightly, but the challenges we are facing this year have made it the most responsible course of action for the well-being of our student athletes and program,” district leaders, including Wilkinson, said in a statement.

In order for an athlete to play, they must be clear by the school nurse, have 10 practice days and be in good academic standing, Wilkinson said.

The coaching staff is now working with the athletes on other training and development opportunities.

The program was cancelled once before in 2000, Wilkinson said. The program has been around since the 1960s.

The district is now thinking about next steps for the program, they said. However, they would like it to continue.

“Our plan is to move forward with the program and try to build it up.  We have a young core group coming up and eager to play,” Wilkinson said in a statement to NewsChannel 13.