Football
Hoover High School Discontinues Football Program Amidst Participation Decline
2025-02-27

In a significant development for the local sports scene, Des Moines Hoover High School has announced that it will not field a football team in the fall of 2025. This decision comes as a result of dwindling student interest and participation. Students who are keen on playing football will have the opportunity to join the team at Des Moines Roosevelt High School. The school administration and athletic department made this choice after careful deliberation, considering various factors such as safety concerns and overall engagement levels. In recent years, Hoover's football performance has also been notably poor, with no victories recorded over the past two seasons.

The announcement was communicated to families via a letter from Principal Qynne Kelly, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the collaborative effort behind this decision. Safety and student interest were cited as primary concerns. Over the past three seasons, the Hoover Huskies struggled with a record of just one win out of twenty-six games, with their last victory dating back to September 9, 2022. This ongoing challenge underscored the need for change.

Athletic Director Charles Zanders informed parents and guardians about the transition plans. For those students wishing to continue their football careers, arrangements have been made for them to participate under the banner of Roosevelt High School. Additionally, Hoover's head coach, Theo Evans, will take up an assistant coaching position at Dallas Center-Grimes, marking a shift in leadership within the community.

This move reflects a broader trend of schools reassessing their sports programs in response to fluctuating student interests and safety considerations. It highlights the importance of adapting to changing circumstances while ensuring that students still have access to athletic opportunities. As Hoover looks toward the future, the school remains committed to supporting its students' diverse extracurricular pursuits.

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