Iowa School District Cancels Girls Basketball Season Due to Player Shortage

BUSSEY, Iowa — Twin Cedars Community School District has canceled the remainder of its high school girls basketball season, citing injuries and an insufficient number of players. The announcement was made in a Facebook post on Jan. 14, 2025, marking the second consecutive year the program has struggled to field a team.

The Sabers, who were attempting to rebuild the program after not fielding a team last season, finished the season with a 0-5 record, including 0-4 in the Bluegrass Conference. School officials emphasized the decision was made to prioritize the health and safety of student-athletes. “These girls have poured their hearts into this program, and we are incredibly proud of their dedication and resilience,” the district stated.

Twin Cedars is not alone in facing this challenge. Other Iowa schools, including Clarion-Goldfield-Dows, Charles City, Sibley-Ocheyedan, West Sioux, and Central City, have also canceled their girls’ varsity basketball seasons this year. The trend has sparked concerns about declining participation in girls’ basketball, even as women’s basketball gains national attention and popularity.

“It’s a difficult decision, but we have to prioritize the well-being of our students,” said a Twin Cedars spokesperson. The district did not provide specific numbers on how many players were available or injured, but the shortage highlights broader issues facing rural school sports programs.

This season’s cancellation raises questions about the future of girls’ basketball in smaller Iowa communities. With participation numbers dwindling, schools are grappling with how to sustain athletic programs while ensuring student safety and competitive opportunities.