For members of the football program at Stuart Hall, there has been a buzz since last fall about the program’s potential future and growth, as well as a possible transition from 8-man games to 11-man games. With the hiring of three coaches with extensive football experience at all levels, the program’s expansion began. Starting in June, the team met several times a week to workout, go over schemes, and learn about 11-man football to prepare for the upcoming season.

Now, for the first time in football program history, Stuart Hall will be competing in 11-man football games this fall. Since 2010, Stuart Hall has played only 8-man opponents. This season will feature 4 opponents who are 11-man programs: George Washington HS on August 23rd, Upper Lake on September 5th at 6pm, Mission HS on September 12th at 5:30pm, and Ygnacio Valley on September 25th at 7pm. The George Washington scrimmage on the 23rd was a developmental game with the goal of getting both teams ready for their upcoming seasons. The three remaining 11-man games will all be played at historic Kezar Stadium.​

Athletic Director, Dr. Dana Kuwahara, was asked about the transition from 8-man to 11-man and said, “The program has grown immensely over the six years I’ve been here and reached a point where I’m excited to see how we can do against 11-man teams because of the interest and success our 8-man program has seen.” Two senior players were also asked about the development of the program. Henry Dixon, an offensive and defensive lineman, said, “It’s been great to see how hard our team is working and rising to this opportunity and taking advantage of it.” When Antonio Ruby, a wide receiver and linebacker, was asked, he said that,  “The switch from 8-man to 11-man is going to be difficult, but if there’s a team that can do it, it’s us.” Both Dixon and Ruby said that they are looking forward to leading and inspiring the team throughout the season to build the foundation for years to come for the Stuart Hall football program.