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GHSA ratifies plan to separate Class A through 3A public and private schools for playoffs

Staff Photo by Robin Rudd / Trion High School head football coach Sean Patrick is happy the GHSA ratified a proposal to separate public and private schools in the postseason in the state's three lowest classifications.
Staff Photo by Robin Rudd / Trion High School head football coach Sean Patrick is happy the GHSA ratified a proposal to separate public and private schools in the postseason in the state's three lowest classifications.

By Lindsey Young 3 min read

The Georgia High School Association’s executive committee approved the ruling body’s reclassification plan for the two-year cycle beginning in 2024-25 at its meeting Monday morning in Thomasville.

It also approved the state’s student-athletes will be able to gain from use of their name, image and likeness as long as any NIL deal meets the state’s guidelines.

READ MORE: (GHSA guidelines for student-athlete NIL deals)

The reclassification will create separate playoffs for public and private schools in the state’s lowest three classifications while allowing private schools to compete in regions alongside public schools. News of the plan’s passing (by a 53-18-1 vote) was met with approval in the northwest Georgia area.

“It’s a good day for public schools across the state,” Trion High School football coach Sean Patrick said. “I think it’s much needed and I’m happy the GHSA recognized the issue with that.