Cherry Hill East-West Football Game Postponed Due To 'Recent Events'

CHERRY HILL, NJ — Cherry Hill's rivalry high school football game, originally set for Friday night, has been postponed because of "recent events impacting our school community," officials said.

The match between Cherry Hill High School East and West will now take place at 6 p.m. Oct. 26.

The announcement from the district's athletic director and both school principals noted that the rivalry match "is a cherished event that brings together our students, parents, staff, and the entire Cherry Hill Community for a joyous celebration."

"We acknowledge that this change may come as a disappointment to many," the announcement says, "but please understand that this decision has been reached after thorough deliberation, with the utmost concern for the present circumstances and the well-being of the entire Cherry Hill community. Your understanding and support are greatly appreciated as we navigate these challenging times."

Athletic Director Michael Beirao, High School East Principal Dr. Dennis Perry and High School West Principal Dr. John Burns didn't specify which events prompted the postponement. But several Cherry Hill events, including a Township Council meeting, were postponed this week in light of the Hamas-led attack on Israel and ensuing warfare in the Jewish state and Gaza.

Cherry Hill has one of New Jersey's highest Jewish populations.

Township officials re-iterated Thursday that there are no known threats specific to Cherry Hill. But police will increase their presence at schools, places of worship and throughout the community "out of an abundance of caution."

Law enforcement around the state will continue to patrol sensitive areas, such as houses of worship for the Jewish and Islamic faiths, large gathering places, and schools. However, there haven't been any specific threats in New Jersey, according to state Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin.

"We stand in solidarity with our Israeli and Jewish family, friends and neighbors, as we grieve the loss of so many innocent lives lost in the atrocious terrorist attacks on Israel," Platkin said. "And we pray for all innocent civilians who face the horrors of war."

The Hamas-led attack on Israel killed more than 1,300 people, while Israeli strikes in response have killed nearly 1,800 people in Gaza, CNN reported Friday.