CLINTON, Ill. (WAND) – Clinton High School has canceled the remainder of its varsity football season because of low participation and injuries within the program.

School officials said the decision was made with student-athlete safety in mind. The school said it did not have enough healthy varsity players available to continue the schedule without placing added physical demands on those athletes.

“The health and well-being of our students must remain our highest priority,” the school said in a statement.

The junior varsity season will continue as scheduled. School leaders said the program will allow players to keep building skills, teamwork and experience on the field.

Interim Superintendent Dr. Chuck Nagel said coaches and administrators will continue working with players for the rest of the season to provide a positive football experience.

The school acknowledged the decision is disappointing for players, coaches, families and supporters, but said it was necessary to put student safety first.