GILLETT, WI – The Gillett School District has announced it will not field a varsity football team this fall, opting instead to compete with a junior varsity schedule during the 2026 season.
District officials say the decision followed discussions involving players, parents, coaches and school administrators, with student safety and the overall experience for student-athletes serving as the primary factors.
School leaders determined that the current roster size and makeup made a junior varsity season the best path forward, allowing players to continue developing their skills while gaining valuable game experience in a safer and more competitive environment.
Despite the change, district officials emphasized that Gillett remains committed to its football program and plans to use the 2026 season as an opportunity to strengthen the foundation for a return to varsity competition in the future.
Coaches and players will continue working together throughout the season, focusing on player development and representing the Gillett Tigers program while rebuilding participation.
The district says a junior varsity schedule, along with additional information about the upcoming season, will be released once it has been finalized.
School officials thanked families, student-athletes and the community for their continued support, expressing confidence that the temporary move to junior varsity competition will help position the program for long-term success.
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