SoCal college abruptly kills football program just weeks before start of season

A Southern California college has canceled its football season just weeks before kickoff after school officials said the team did not have enough players to safely compete throughout the season.

Los Angeles Pierce College announced Tuesday that it made the “difficult decision” to place its football program on hiatus for the 2026 season after monitoring the roster throughout the summer and delaying a final determination for as long as reasonably possible.

Officials said the roster never reached the size needed for the Brahmas to safely participate throughout the season.

The Woodland Hills college said its immediate priority is supporting every affected student-athlete, as the decision leaves players looking for new programs if they want to continue competing this fall.

“Pierce College is working with the Southern California Football Association and other colleges to help students who wish to continue competing pursue opportunities with as little disruption as possible to their academic progress,” the statement read.

“We recognize that this news is disappointing for our student-athletes, alumni, supporters and the broader Pierce community.

“Pierce Football has a proud history, and we are grateful to everyone who has contributed to that tradition.”

Pierce College is a 75-year-old public community college in the San Fernando Valley.

The Brahmas compete in the Southern California Football Association’s Pacific Conference rather than the NCAA, with conference opponents including Victor Valley College, Santa Monica College and Grossmont College.

The football program will remain on hiatus while college leaders evaluate its future. Officials said they remain committed to the academic success, safety and well-being of their student-athletes.