BP and Hayfield create football co-op for fall 2026

Blooming Prairie and Hayfield High Schools will put their football rivalry to the side in 2026 and instead join forces as the Blooming Prairie-Hayfield co-op football team this coming fall after news of the union was made public today.

Hayfield Schools Superintendent Gregg Slaathaug made the information public with a post to Facebook around 3 p.m.

“I wanted to share an important update regarding our football program for the upcoming school year. After many thoughtful discussions, Hayfield and Blooming Prairie have agreed to enter into a cooperative agreement for football for students in grades 7-12,” said Slaathaug in his post to the Hayfield Community Schools Facebook page.

The two teams join forces after program participation numbers have fluctuated in the past few seasons for both teams.

“The number one reason for this cooperative agreement is student safety. As participation numbers continue to fluctuate, it is our responsibility to provide a safe environment where students can compete, develop, and enjoy the game of football. Just as important, we want every student-athlete to have the opportunity to be part of a positive, competitive, and rewarding experience,” said Slaathaug.

Both teams have a storied history of going toe-to-toe on the gridiron, but Slaathaug doesn’t see the change interfering with either town’s football identity.

“I know this is a significant change, and I also know how much pride both communities have in their football traditions. Please know that this decision was not made quickly or lightly. Throughout this process, one priority remained above everything else-our students,” he said.

More information is still to come about the co-op’s next steps.

“Many details are still being finalized, and additional information will be shared with families as those decisions are made. At this time, we can share that the cooperative agreement will include grades 7-12. Practices and games will be hosted in both communities, uniforms will be shared, and each school will continue to celebrate its own homecoming and traditions. Our team will compete as the Blooming Prairie Hayfield Football Team,” he said.

According to him, the co-op will last “for a minimum of two years.”

The Times will continue to update its reporting as new information is made available.