Shannon Forced to End Football Season

COVID-19 has caused a casualty to a team in the 2020 high school football season: the Shannon Red Raiders.

The school received notice on Wednesday of an active coronavirus case on the football team. After contact tracing was conducted, enough close contacts were determined to force a cancellation of Friday’s regular season finale against Pontotoc.

Shannon was counting on the matchup against the Warriors in hopes of qualifying for the 4A playoffs, beginning next week. However, regardless of if the Red Raiders qualify, principal Jason Arledge has stated they will not be able to play.

“While this result is disappointing to our players, coaches, faculty, staff, parents and community members, it is a necessary step to maintain a safe environment and minimize the risk of exposure for everyone involved.”

This will be the first time since 1994 that Shannon has not been in the playoffs. The Raiders end their season right at .500 with a 4-4 overall and 2-2 division record.