Cheltenham Cancels 2026 High School Football Season

CHELTENHAM TOWNSHIP, PA — The Cheltenham School District will cancel its two football seasons this year.

Schools Superintendent Brian W. Scriven informed the school community on Tuesday of the decision, coming in the wake of last year when the program was suspended and then ended due to hazing issues.

"After careful consideration, a difficult decision has been made to cancel the varsity and junior varsity football programs for the 2026 season," the superintendent said.

Scriven said that following the suspension of last year’s season, several critical tasks were identified as needing to take place before the program could be resumed.

The completion of critical tasks required to reset the program is directly dependent on the findings from both the internal and external investigations currently underway.

Until those investigations are concluded and their findings are known, it is not possible to define, develop, or execute the necessary corrective actions, Scriven said in a statement.

"The district cannot build a path forward around unknowns," he said. "The scope and nature of what must be addressed will be determined by the evidence, and that process must be allowed to run its course before any meaningful next steps can be taken."

Although a varsity or junior varsity football season will not take place this year, the district will field a ninth-grade team.

In connection with making a decision on this year’s varsity and junior varsity football season, the district consulted with the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) to understand the process and procedures related to athletic eligibility and transfer protocol.

PIAA has advised that students or parents/guardians with questions should direct them to PIAA District One Committee Executive Director Sean Kelly.

"The district recognizes that this uncertainty is difficult for students, families, and staff, and we are committed to ensuring that no one navigates this time alone," Scriven said.

Beginning Wednesday and continuing through the end of the school year, wraparound support services will be available to anyone who needs them.

Licensed counselors will be present and accessible in the counseling office to provide mental health support, a space to process, and guidance for those who may be struggling with the impact of this situation.

"We will begin exploring opportunities to work with coaches and advisors more intentionally to ensure pep band, drumline, color guard, and cheerleading continue to have opportunities to compete and proudly represent Cheltenham High School," Scriven said.

"Under the current structure, during the fall season, these programs primarily provide school spirit and entertainment during football games," the superintendent said. "However, the energy, pride, and sense of community that these groups bring should be experienced and appreciated across all of our athletic programs. Our students, families, and fans deserve the opportunity to enjoy the spirit and excitement that these teams contribute to the overall game-day experience."