The war of attrition has caught up with the Vinton Lions.

Down to 15 healthy players, the team announced on Monday that it would forfeit its Friday game at No. 9 Welsh.

“If feel we would put our kids in danger if we put them out there Friday with 15,” Vinton head coach Lark Hebert said. “It is either forfeit in the middle of the game, or try to get some kids healthy and play the last game.

“It is the best for us and what is best for the team. It is unfortunate. We have been working hard not to do that.”

Vinton started the season with about 26 players and opened with a 21-18 road win over Merryville in Week 2 after its Week 1 game with Oakdale was canceled because of severe weather. But since then, the Lions have lost six consecutive games as injuries mounted, forcing younger players to take on starting roles.

Vinton plans to return to the field for its Week 10 home game against Lake Arthur.

“Hopefully we can put about 20 next Friday, maybe get four or five more back and be ready to go,” Hebert said. “We feel like once we get them back we will be able to play against Lake Arthur.”

If the Lions have to forfeit a second time, then according to Louisiana High Athletic Association rule 6.7.3 the Lions “shall be ineligible to participate at the varsity level for the next two years.” Back in 2018, South Cameron was forced to forfeit four of its final five games due to lack of players. The program has not returned.

“That is what we are trying to avoid,” Hebert said. “The kids have been doing a good job of staying tough and hanging in there, but we are just running out of bodies.”