Concerns Rise Over Football Team Cuts at Benson High School

OMAHA, Neb. – Benson High School has made the difficult decision to cancel its last two football games of the season due to low participation numbers. This has sparked conversations in the community about how transfers to other schools might be impacting the team’s ability to compete.

Community members are expressing their disappointment over the early end to the season. The situation seems to stem, in part, from students leaving Benson for schools with more robust sports programs. For example, two years ago, 17 players from Benson transferred to Central High School, indicating a trend that has raised eyebrows among local sports fans.

Co-presidents of the Benson Bunnies Booster Club, Brandon and Stacy Fiscus, shared their love for the school but recognized the changing dynamics of the sports teams. “We love the school, the faculty, and the staff,” Stacy noted, despite feeling the absence of a team to support this season.

The ability for students in Nebraska to attend schools outside their home district, known as option enrollment, is a factor in the decreasing roster sizes at Benson. Nate Neuhaus from the Nebraska School Activities Association pointed out that while he couldn’t comment on Benson’s specific situation, the struggle to fill out sports teams is becoming a common theme. “Participation numbers aren’t what they used to be,” he said, hinting that loyalty to a school might not be as strong as it once was.

Despite the challenges, the Fiscuses remain hopeful for the future of Benson High School. “We believe in moving forward together, not opposing each other,” Brandon stated, emphasizing a spirit of unity among families and community members.

As discussions about option enrollment continue at the state level, it is clear that schools like Benson are navigating a changing landscape in high school sports, one that requires both adjustment and community support.