Moore County School May Bench Varsity Football Team

"It's heartbreaking," said Pinecrest senior Jay Heimrich.

School officials confirmed that Heimrich is one of only four seniors on the Patriot football squad.

"Obviously, every kid is out here giving his all," he said. "We've been here all summer."

Because of the low participation at the varsity level in recent years, school officials said that only junior varsity and freshman schedules might be played this season. School leaders, coaches, and parents will meet early next week to discuss the future of the team.

The school's principal, Joel County, said it's the numbers, not the talent level, that might cost the team its season.

"We've got some skilled participants," said County. "It's the number that concerns us."

Because of low participation, players would have to play both offense and defense for the entire season, with very few substitutions available. County said he fears for the players' safety.

"Our concern is putting kids out on the field and incurring more than you'd expect from playing football," County said.

If the varsity season is cut short, the school could face fines from the conference, and seniors like Heimrich would likely see their high school careers come to a disappointing end.

"The kids are looking forward to scholarships," Heimrich said. "It's just a heartbreaker. It's not looking too good."