Sedona Red Rock High School Gathers for Groundbreaking Football Program Revival

Approximately 40 parents and 17 students gathered at Sedona Red Rock High School on February 12 for an informational session to discuss the potential revival of the school’s previously canceled tackle football program.

The district axed the football program on May 5, 2020, citing insufficient interest, with an average of only 25 players at the season’s outset and dwindling to 15.5 by season’s end due to various factors, including injuries and academic ineligibility.

Superintendent Tom Swaninger revealed that 42 students have expressed interest in the program, and he anticipates recruiting between 20 and 25 players. He emphasized the importance of such programs for the district’s growth, urging community support despite past challenges. “If we’re going to build this district into what it can be, this type of program is going to be one of those cornerstone pieces,” Swaninger remarked.

In an encouraging move, the Arizona Interscholastic Association has approved the school’s transition from Division 2A to 1A, enabling the formation of an eight-man team competing on an 80-yard field—requirements designed to bolster team viability after previous failed appeals to revitalize the program. According to AIA board member Tim Carter, “1A is our smallest conference, but it’s a pretty competitive conference.”

Physical education teacher Sean Eicher has committed to being involved with the program, planning to focus on strength and conditioning. Eicher noted a strong desire from students to reinstate the football culture, stating, “They want to be able to have Friday Night Lights again.”

The athletic director, John Parks, also expressed interest in reviving traditional events such as the POW-MIA game, which honors military personnel. He noted that any sport carries inherent risks, but stressed the importance of qualified coaching to mitigate those risks. Swaninger agreed, stating, “By no means are we the outlier by offering football … We’ll do what we can to best ensure the safety of all of our students.”

Planning for financial aspects is ongoing, with an anticipated annual cost of around $10,000 for the program. The district estimates overall re-establishment costs between $30,000 and $50,000, mentioning an increase in funding from the Sedona Educational Foundation as a positive factor.

Parent Heather Stimple raised concerns about community commitment and support from administrators, reflecting on the challenges that led to the program’s previous discontinuation. The hiring process for coaches is a top priority, and Swaninger noted the district would survey parents to gauge support for the program.

If reinstated, spring practice is slated for April 28-May 16, with regular practice commencing July 29, leading up to the season’s start on August 20. Freshman Jackson Maher expressed excitement about the prospect of participating in tackle football, viewing it as a significant opportunity for personal growth and athletic development.