Caruthersville out of Bootheel Conference for remainder of school year

Following a vote by superintendents of the Bootheel Athletic Conference member schools, the Caruthersville School District has been removed from the conference competitions in all sports for the remainder of the 2023-2024 school year.

Caruthersville's upcoming boys' basketball game against Portageville High School on Thursday will proceed as scheduled. However, the status of the remaining games on Caruthersville's schedule will depend on the decisions of its respective opponents.

If an opposing team opts not to play the game, it will be canceled and not count as a forfeit for Caruthersville.

The Caruthersville School District posted the following information on Facebook this afternoon, “As a result of a vote of the other member schools in the Bootheel Athletic Conference, Caruthersville School District will not participate in Bootheel Athletic Conference competition for the remainder of the 2023-2024 school year. While Caruthersville School District did not agree with this decision, we do agree that sportsmanship and safety at athletic events are of the utmost importance. The behavior and actions of our students, athletes, staff, fans, and community must exemplify the tradition of excellence of our athletic programs. Our staff is currently assessing our current schedules and will update them as soon as possible. More information will be shared as it develops. Any questions regarding this matter can be directed to Brad Gerling, Superintendent of Schools, at 573-333-6100.”

Caruthersville is expected to rejoin the conference at the start of the 2024-2025 school year.