Overall football numbers strong for Cadet program

 CRESCO - Although some high schools in Iowa are currently unable to field a football team this season because of low numbers, that is definitely not the case at Crestwood High School this fall.

The 2022 Crestwood football program will include 62 total players. That includes 42 players on the varsity roster (grades 10-12) and 20 on the freshmen team.

“We are very fortunate to have very solid numbers out for football this year,” Varsity Head Coach Justin Denner said. “We currently have 62 students signed up for football (grades 9-12) and are very thankful for having those numbers.  

“Participation numbers in extracurricular activities has been on the decline in recent years, throughout most of the area and probably the state.  We do our best as a staff to try and create an environment that our athletes want to be a part of. That in turn helps attract and retain athletes from year to year.  

“I believe we can keep our numbers up and strong due to the development of our youth flag football and tackle football programs. We also do our best to create a meaningful experience for our athletes during their junior high years.  All of this is not possible without supportive parents, community members, and athletes.  We appreciate everything that they have done for us in the past and look forward to serving them in the future,” Denner said.

Howard-Winneshiek Superintendent Kris Einck is thrilled to see more than 60 students competing in football this fall.

“(Having 62 students playing football) is pretty good compared to other area teams, especially in Class 2A,” Einck said. “Obviously, this has to do with our coaching staff energizing our kids and making them excited about football. I firmly believe the off- season dedication in the weight room also helps generate enthusiasm for students to go out and compete.”