HASTINGS, Neb.— Hastings St. Cecilia’s high school football team will be transitioning from 11-man to 8-man for the next two-year cycle.

Chief Administrative Officer, Fr. Cyrus Rowan, announced on Tuesday the decision to move to 8-man. 

Rowan states that the decision was not made lightly, but after evaluating St. Cecilia’s top priorities, it was evident to do so.

“Our top priorities remain the safety, development and overall well-being of our student-athletes,” said Rowan. 

The Nebraska School Activities Association is adding a third 8-man class for next season and increasing the enrollment threshold for participation from 47 to 55 boys in grades 9-11. Rowan cited that change as another reason to support the move. St. Cecilia had a boys enrollment that would have allowed the Bluehawks to compete in 8-man football the last couple of seasons, but the school opted up to compete in 11-man.

St. Cecilia made the Class C-2 playoffs three straight seasons from 2021-2023 before falling on hard times the last couple of seasons. The Bluehawks were winless last season and won just one game this fall.

Rowan also stated that player safety is the school's highest priority.

“Moving to 8-man will create a mores sustainable program with deeper roster depth, ensuring safer practices and games, and allowing for consistent junior varsity competition,” said Rowan.

Participation numbers are down for football across the state and Rowan says St. Cecilia has experienced the same trend.

The decision will be re-evaluated every two years to ensure it continues to be in the best interest of St. Cecilia and the student-athletes. 

“We believe this move will enable our Blue Hawks to achieve success as a football family, demonstrating the power of faith, relationships, commitment, and courage,” said Rowan. “We are confident that controlling what we can - attitude, effort, work, fundamentals, and unity - will lead to a fulfilling and successful experience for our players.”