(8-14-26) In 2026 Wabash will play a very unique hybrid football schedule…8-man and 11-man opponents.

Recently schools in several states that cancel varsity seasons have decided to play JV to keep the program active.

So with playing some 11 man games will the IHSAA let the Apaches be a part of the playoffs? Plus will the IHSAA have issues with this format?

How about the schools who were scheduled to play Wabash react to all of this…including Maconaquah, Rochester and Lewis Cass.

From the Wabash HS Facebook page—-

🏈 WABASH FOOTBALL 2026 🏈

This season may look a little different, but one thing hasn’t changed: Wabash will be playing football.

Due to lower football numbers this year, Wabash Football will play a hybrid schedule featuring both 8-man and 11-man football. This schedule gives us the best opportunity to keep our young team safe throughout the season while putting our players in a position to compete in meaningful games.

🔶 Our 11-man games will continue to include our Wabash County opponents and Whitko.

⚫ We’ve also added 8-man games against:

  • Kosciusko Thunder
  • South Newton High School
  • Greenwood Christian Academy
  • Ft. Wayne Crusaders

The Apaches will get their first taste of action by traveling to Whiteland Community High School for an 8-man jamboree to kick off the season.

Wabash Football has been taking the field since 1896, and that tradition continues this fall. Some games will be 8-man, some will be 11-man, and a couple will be played on Saturday afternoons. It may look a little different, but every game gives our players an opportunity to put on a Wabash uniform, represent their school and community, and compete.

And what shouldn’t look any different?

The tailgates.
The great crowds.
The turf field.
The Cheer & Dance Team.
The Apache Band.
And a community showing up and supporting Wabash Football.

Whether it’s under the Friday night lights or on a Saturday afternoon, we hope to see Wabash show up and support our young men.

📅 Check out our new schedule, share it, and make plans to join us this fall!

Schedule Key:

= 8-Man Football
^ = Homecoming