Two area schools dropping to 8-man football this fall will stay district opponents the next two seasons. Declining enrollments contributed to the WACO and Lone Tree Community School districts approving the move from 11-man football to 8-man football.=

The two teams, who were paired in Class 1A District 6 the last two seasons, will play each the next two season as well. The Warriors and Lions are among the eight team in District 4. Joining WACO and Lone Tree in the grouping are Cedar Valley Christian, Easton, English Valleys, Iowa Valley, Midland, and Springville.

On top of adjusting to a new brand of football, the Lions and Warriors will be battling for two fewer playoff spots. The Iowa High School Athletic Association voted to consolidate the postseason field from 32 teams per class to 16.

Lone Tree and WACO found success in their final seasons in 11-man football. The Lions finished the year 6-4 with an appearance in the playoffs. The Warriors ended the year 4-5 overall, a three win improvement from 2014.

The 2016 football season kickoffs on August 25.