Jenkins head football coach Kenneth O’Quinn Jr. tried so hard to make it work.
The numbers were stacked against him from the very start of practice, thus forcing the suspension of the program for 2019.
Recent injuries and other unforeseen circumstances played a big role in the decision.
Jenkins, which lost to Jackson County (30-0) this past Friday night, was scheduled to play at Berea this coming weekend.
O’Quinn said he is disappointed by the outcome and said he felt most sorrowful for the senior members of the team.
The Cavalier, 0-3, were forced to forfeit their game with Rye Cove, Va., and lost in the opener to Breathitt County, which had agreed to play with only eight players.
Four injuries in the first three week, and low numbers, left the school with no other choice.
O’Quinn said he wasn’t sure about the future of football returning to Jenkins.
The following is a statement from Coach O’Quinn:
“It’s been tough especially the kids/seniors. I tell them keep the faith and this will make you a better man one way or the other. Sure I’d love to win every time we step on the field but that is not what it’s all about. It’s about putting young men out into the world with the ability to take all the hits life gives you and get right back up. This is the smallest bunch I’ve ever been a part of but although they were always outnumbered and outmanned the kept getting up. As a coach that makes me proud. They could have laid down a long time ago but they chose to fight to the bitter end. Says so much about character. I’ll never forget this team and these seniors especially.”