Plain Dealing is forfeiting its game Friday against Jonesboro-Hodge, according to a statement released by Head Coach Clint Walker in response to media inquiries.
“Plain Dealing High School has made the difficult decision to not play their district football game scheduled for this Friday, Oct. 25, 2024, against Jonesboro-Hodge High School,” the statement said. “The decision comes as a result of current player injuries that have left the team without sufficient capacity to safely compete in the upcoming game.
“Plain Dealing High School will continue to closely monitor player safety and health as we progress through the remainder of the season. We appreciate your understanding and support as we prioritize the well-being of our student-athletes.”
Plain Dealing is 0-7 on the season and hasn’t scored since a season-opening 16-14 loss to Tensas.
In an LHSAA re-classification memo released a year ago, Plain Dealing’s enrollment was listed as 81.
There were 19 players listed on the roster in this season’s jamboree program. The roster included seven players in the seventh and eighth grades.
Walker is in his third season as head coach. But even before he arrived, Plain Dealing was dealing with dwindling numbers.
Plain Dealing supporters have pushed to save the program the last few years, hoping the numbers will grow in the next few.
The Lions’ last victory was in Week 6 of the 2021 season.