gether, but I think the ….

gether, but I think the leadership in both districts are interested in building a program,” Green said, “a program that develops players and puts players in a position to succeed. We’re looking to build a program, not just field a team.”

Chris Lindner, who is the Loyal district administrator and head football coach, said he is in favor of a co-op program. He has a few more players to work with than Greenwood, but there are still freshmen and sophomores starting at the varsity level.

The Loyal varsity team has posted a 1-4 mark this year, with its first win coming on Sept. 17 against Kingdom Lutheran Prep. It’s four losses against Abbotsford, Neillsville- Granton, Colby and Auburndale have come by combined scores of 137-24.

Lindner said he thinks the schools should join teams with an eye on future years. If young players can learn skills in freshman and JV programs, they will be better equipped when they reach their junior and senior seasons.

“I’m looking at our program to see where we’re at in the future,” Lindner said.

If the teams combine, a co-op squad would play the 11-man format as the combined enrollment would exceed the 200-student maximum imposed by the WIAA.

If the co-op is approved next season, the team could start in either 2023 or 2024. If it would begin next fall, it would not be eligible for post-season play for one year.

Green said he has not received community input on preference for an 8-man or 11-man format. What he has heard from parents is a desire for a program that does not shove unprepared athletes onto the field.

“If there’s a push, it’s to develop players,” Green said. “Those that I’ve talked to feel joining together gives us the best chance to keep our kids safe.”

Green also said the football issue is a part of a larger discussion Greenwood and Loyal have been having about building partnerships that give kids more opportunity. A joint board committee has been meeting already to look at possible shared ventures.

“This (football) is also part of the greater picture of Greenwood and Loyal collaborating to give all of our kids as much opportunity as possible,” Green said.