The 2026 Harvest Helmet Classic has been canceled due to tragic circumstances.
On Thursday, Sept. 24, Monroe Central announced that the Golden Bears would not participate in Friday night’s scheduled varsity football game against Wes-Del. The cancelation comes in the wake of the death of Monroe Central student-athlete Charli Siekmann, who passed away on Sept. 23 after suffering critical injuries in a car accident a week prior on Sept. 16.
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“In honor of Charli Siekmann and to allow our school community to support her family, Monroe Central will not participate in tomorrow’s scheduled varsity football game @ Wes-Del,” school officials said in a statement released Thursday morning. “We appreciate everyone’s understanding and support as we come together to honor Charli’s life.”
Siekmann was a junior at Monroe Central, where she excelled in academics and was a member of the golf team, according to her obituary. She is survived by her parents, Cole Siekmann and Carissa Siekmann, and her five siblings, including older brother Carson Siekmann, a Monroe Central senior who is one of the football team’s top players.
More: Crash injuries claim life of Monroe Central student
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“Today, we mourn the loss of Charli, a beloved member of the Monroe Central family,” school officials said in a Wednesday release. “Her smile, kindness and presence touched so many lives, and she will be deeply missed by her classmates, teachers, coaches and our entire school community.”
Funeral services for Charli Siekmann will be held at LifePoint Church (3100 East McGalliard Road) on Friday, Sept. 25. Calling will be 3 to 7 p.m. Friday at the church followed by a private burial at Strong Cemetery.
Winchester junior Joey Vasquez (24) scrambles to find an opening in the first quarter at Monroe Central High School on September 4, 2026.
Contact Cade Hampton via email at cbhampton@usatodayco.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @CadeHamp10.
This article originally appeared on Muncie Star Press: Monroe Central vs Wes-Del football game canceled due to tragedy
