CARROLLTON SCHOOLS WILL NOT PURSUE FOOTBALL CO-OP FOR 2026

CARROLLTON — The Carrollton School District says it will not pursue a football co-op for the upcoming 2026 season, citing conference rules and timing constraints that make a partnership unworkable at this time.

In a press release issued Tuesday, Superintendent Jason Bauer said no formal requests were submitted by either Carrollton or North Greene to begin a co-op agreement. Both schools are members of the Western Illinois Valley Conference, which requires strict adherence to its constitution and bylaws for football participation.

Under those rules, if a co-op were approved, one school would have to withdraw from the conference entirely and provide a one-year notice in writing. District officials say that timeline makes it impossible to meet requirements in time for the 2026 season, and any deviation could create scheduling instability across the conference.

District leaders also addressed recent public discussion about participation numbers, noting that 35 students expressed interest in playing football during a sign-up conducted last month. Officials believe that is enough to field a competitive team, and a newly formed Board Athletic Committee is continuing to monitor participation and explore ways to strengthen all athletic programs.

While a co-op will not move forward for 2026, the district emphasized that the option is not permanently off the table if future needs arise. The focus remains on providing strong athletic opportunities and supporting student-athletes across all programs.

The district also recognized outgoing head coach Rodney Flowers for his years of service and contributions to the football program. Moving forward, attention will shift to supporting Coach Buchanan and the Carrollton Hawks football team for the upcoming season.