The Georgia High School Association assigned its member schools to classifications for the 2024-26 cycle on Wednesday, and early reaction from area football programs was mostly positive.
The main objective of the reclassification plan for the next two school years was to provide the state’s smaller schools with a more level playing field by moving private schools into their own playoffs in Classes A through AAA. Private and public schools will still compete in the same regions (except in Class A Division II) during the regular season, with a power-rating system determining postseason seeding in those classes.
The GHSA eliminated the current highest classification, AAAAAAA, in hopes of addressing travel concerns. For some Northwest Georgia schools, however, projected regions will greatly increase travel.
Three area schools, Dalton, Southeast Whitfield and Trion, are projected to be fairly isolated, barring adjustments through the appeal process.
“We’re going to have to travel a lot, but that’s part of it,” said Trion football coach Sean Patrick after the school was placed in the state’s smallest classification, Class A Division II. “I’m excited for our kids because we are where we should be, in with schools with similar size as us. It gives our kids a definite chance to succeed in all sports.”