GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA)
Board of Directors has voted to combine Rural Class and Class 1A into a single classification beginning with the upcoming season.
FHSAA policy 12.3.2.1 requires at least 24 schools for there to be a rural classification. With only 16 schools meeting the criteria, the Board voted to merge the classifications to ensure a consistent competitive structure.
“The rural schools that want to be part of the state series can now do so,” said FHSAA Executive Director Craig Damon.
The Board also voted to allow the creation of an independent league under FHSAA authority, giving independent schools the option to participate with the potential for postseason play.
“We listened to our member schools, and they made it clear this move would create a more even playing field and give them something to play for,” Damon added.
The FHSAA will provide updated classification details to schools in the coming weeks.
Meeting Resources:
About the FHSAA
The Florida High School Athletic Association supervises and regulates interscholastic athletic programs for high school students at member public, private and charter schools. The organization also recognizes and honors academic achievement among student-athletes at over 850 middle, junior and senior high schools statewide. Headquartered in Gainesville, it is the official governing body for interscholastic athletics in Florida.