OSSAA Approves Independent Football Schedules, Denies 5 Schools

Nine high schools applied for independent schedules, but only four were approved

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) approved independent football schedules for four high schools, but denied the requests of five other schools during its monthly board meeting. Schools that play an independent schedule will not be eligible for the playoffs.

Why it matters

The decision by the OSSAA highlights the challenges some Oklahoma high school football programs are facing, with several schools struggling to be competitive in recent seasons. The approvals and denials could have significant impacts on the schools' football programs and communities.

The details

The four schools approved for independent schedules were Enid (0-9 in 2025), Capitol Hill (0-10), Caney Valley (0-9), and Cordell (0-10). These schools were winless in 2025 and will now play independent schedules for the 2026 and 2027 seasons, making them ineligible for the playoffs. The five schools denied were Guymon (5-5), John Marshall (2-8), Northwest Classen (2-9), Classen SAS (0-10), and U.S. Grant (3-7).

  • The OSSAA made its decision during its monthly board meeting on February 25, 2026.
  • The approved independent schedules will be in effect for the 2026 and 2027 football seasons.

The players

OSSAA

The Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association, the governing body for high school sports in the state.

Enid High School

A high school in Enid, Oklahoma that was approved for an independent football schedule after going 0-9 in 2025.

Capitol Hill High School

A high school in Oklahoma City that was approved for an independent football schedule after going 0-10 in 2025.

Caney Valley High School

A high school in Caney Valley, Oklahoma that was approved for an independent football schedule after going 0-9 in 2025.

Cordell High School

A high school in Cordell, Oklahoma that was approved for an independent football schedule after going 0-10 in 2025.

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What’s next

The OSSAA will monitor the performance of the schools granted independent schedules and evaluate whether any changes need to be made for the 2028 season.

The takeaway

The OSSAA's decision highlights the challenges facing some Oklahoma high school football programs and the difficult choices the governing body must make to ensure competitive and fair play across the state. The approvals and denials could have significant impacts on the affected schools and communities.