Michigan high school football programs cancel 2026 seasons

Multiple Michigan high school football programs have canceled their 2026 seasons due to roster shortages and safety concerns.

Cheboygan High School announced the cancellation of its varsity program after injuries and low participation left the team with only 13 healthy players. Head Coach Bill Nesbitt noted that while the team had prepared for a season with low numbers, the lack of depth and concerns for student safety made proceeding unfeasible.

Gull Lake High School also canceled its 2026 varsity season. The decision followed player concerns regarding ongoing investigations into alleged assaults that reportedly occurred during a team campground visit in Oceana County in late June. Interim head coach Josh Cunningham stated that after meeting with players, it was determined the team could not safely continue the campaign. The school district previously placed former head coach Jalon Simpson on administrative leave following the incidents.