Cedar Rapids, Iowa, September 12, 2025
News Summary
Coach Cory Quail has resigned as the head coach of the Highland football team due to safety concerns, leading to the cancellation of upcoming games. With only 13 active players remaining, the district is reevaluating the football program and exploring options like season cancellation or allowing players to join other teams. Superintendent Spencer Lueders emphasized the importance of player safety during this challenging time. Quail will continue to work as a physical education teacher while supporting athletes through conditioning programs.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa – Coach Cory Quail has officially resigned as head coach of the Highland football team, calling for the suspension of the current football season due to pressing player safety concerns. Quail, who announced his resignation on social media, has expressed that his decision is rooted in the need to prioritize the health and safety of his players amidst alarming trends in participation and injury rates.
The Highland football team is currently facing a dire situation with only 13 active players following a substantial defeat last week, losing 40-7 to Wapello. In light of these challenges, the Highland school district has decided to cancel the next two scheduled football games, firmly emphasizing safety as the main justification for these cancellations.
During his announcement, Quail highlighted several significant issues, such as dwindling participation numbers, which have raised serious concerns about the team’s ability to function effectively. He referred to an incident where some receivers needed to wear lineman jerseys during a game, indicating severe shortages in player positions. Quail underscored that he would not jeopardize the well-being of his players for the sake of competition or personal pride.
In response to the situation, Superintendent Spencer Lueders stated that the district is currently reevaluating the football program to ensure that it provides a safe environment for its students. He stressed the importance of supporting student safety and acknowledged the resilience of the remaining football players as they navigate this difficult period.
In an admirable show of commitment, several Highland players have volunteered to assist with junior high practices during the game cancellations. The district is now deliberating various options, such as cancelling the football season altogether or allowing Highland players to join teams from other districts to continue participating in the sport. A decision on the future of the season is anticipated to be announced next week.
Quail made clear that his resignation from the coaching role does not equate to abandoning Highland; he will remain with the school as a physical education teacher. He affirmed his commitment to continuing support for the athletes through strength and conditioning programs, aiming to ensure that this unfortunate circumstance does not overshadow the legacy of Highland’s football program.
This situation in Cedar Rapids is not isolated. Other schools, such as Siouxland Christian, have also faced similar challenges, leading to the cancellation of their football season due to player safety issues. The ongoing dialogue about safety in school sports continues to be timely, drawing attention to the necessity of ensuring that student-athletes can compete in a healthy and secure environment.
Summary of Events
- Coach Cory Quail resignation: Announced resignation focusing on player safety.
- Cancellation of games: Highland has canceled its next two football games.
- Current team status: Only 13 active players on the roster.
- District’s response: Evaluating the football program for safety concerns.
- Possible options: Season cancellation or allowing players to join other teams.
- Support for players: Some players volunteering for junior high practices.
Future Considerations
The Highland district is committed to making decisions that prioritize student health and safety. The impact of decisions made in the coming week will shape the future of the football program and the experiences of student-athletes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Coach Cory Quail resign?
What is the current status of Highland’s football season?
Are there any alternative options for the players?
Key Features of Highland Football Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coach Resignation | Cory Quail resigned due to safety concerns. |
| Team Status | Only 13 active players remaining. |
| Game Cancellations | Next two games canceled. |
| District Evaluation | Superintendent acknowledges need for safety assessments. |
| Volunteer Support | Players assisting with junior high practices. |
| Future Decisions | Options include canceling the season or transferring players to other teams. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The Gazette: Tim Lovell Steps Down as Linn-Mar Football Coach
- Wikipedia: High School Football
- The Gazette: Jeff Gordon Steps Down as Iowa City Liberty Football Coach
- Google Search: High School Football Safety
- The Gazette: Ryan Luehrsmann Resigns as Head Boys Basketball Coach at Cedar Rapids Xavier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Athletics (Sport)
- The Gazette: Kent Allison Steps Down as Football Coach at Lisbon
- Google News: High School Football Resignation
- The Gazette: Morrissey Leaving Prairie for Arizona
- Google Scholar: High School Athlete Safety
- The Gazette: Lewis Resigns as Kennedy Coach Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
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