Press Release from Payette Superintendent Robin Gilbert:

In the best interest of safety for our students and consideration of athletes in partner districts, Payette has chosen to cancel the remaining portion of our varsity football season. Our football team has grown significantly over the past two years under the direction of Coach Kip Crofts, yet started the season with a small squad.

Attrition due to injuries and other factors made it impossible to field a team this Friday against Parma. In the interest of safety for freshman and sophomore athletes, we are not moving JV players up to fill open positions. At this time, we are unsure if or when players will be released to return to the field. Canceling the season now will allow other Districts an opportunity to fill open weeks with other games. Payette is working with administrators and coaches from other districts to mitigate impact for all students. We will adjust home games if possible to allow Friday night community events around our JV squad, seniors, marching band, dance team and cheerleaders. Please watch the school website for any schedule changes.

We regret any inconvenience or financial impact to others, but this decision was driven by the health and welfare of our Pirates first and foremost.