Rockford Christian cancels football season… BNC members must find new opponent

(08/15/24) Rockford Christian confirmed to WIFR-TV on Thursday evening the cancellation of the 2024 college football season.

Isaiah Johnson, athletic director of Rockford Christian 13 told WREX that current players on the roster were informed of the cancellation this afternoon as the team does not have enough players to field a team. In the future, the Royal Lions may consider switching to 8-man football.

Giving up football could jeopardize Rockford Christian's membership in the BNC.

According to the IHSA website, two BNC schools have already found new opponents.

Williamsville High School Athletics on Thursday said:

“We are extremely excited to welcome the Byron community back to Paul Jenkins Field and are happy that both programs now have the opportunity to play under bright lights in the third week of this season.”

Last season, the Royal Lions, members of the Big Northern Conference, finished 0-9. On Sept. 13, Byron travels to Williamsville to replay the 2019 state championship the Bullets won. Oregon hosts Athens on Oct. 25, the final game of the regular season.

Long journeys….

Rockford Christian's remaining schedule remains listed below on the IHSA, with the remaining schools most likely looking for a game to replace the Royal Lions, according to the website.