A survey released on Tuesday, Jan. 3 shows 94.7 percent of 1A schools prefer to stay playing 8-person football. The survey, sent to 95 1A schools in Oregon, received responses from 77 of the schools.
The support to remain playing 8-player football received 94.7 percent approval. Only 2.7 percent of the schools polled wished to make the switch to 9-player format.
The support remained among the 1A schools for the current 6-8-11 player model in Oregon. When questioned if the 1A schools wished to switch to a 6-9-11 model, the response was an overwhelming negative with 85.5 percent voting against the proposal. This was the same percent in favor of staying with the 6-8-11 model.
The 1A schools also showed their dislike of larger schools dictating rules effecting only the 1A teams. 80 percent of the 1A schools stated 2A-6A classification schools should not have an opinion of the decision on 8-player football.
The survey also allowed schools to make comments, positive or negative, towards the proposed switch to 9-player football.
One comment stood out, a statement from Falls City.
“To continue to play 8 man as we have at Falls City since 1960! Our administration, community and coaches identify with 8 man not 6 or 9. Our wish is to continue playing 8 man until the sun doesn’t rise or set any more!”
See the full results of the survey below.
Before you go! If you would like to support continuing and expanded high school sports coverage in eastern Oregon for as little as $1 a month click below! Thank you!
