(LEXINGTON, Ky.)-The Kentucky High School Athletic Association’s Board of Control wrapped up its final regular meeting of the 2025-26 school year, making several significant decisions for the coming years.
Football Realignment The Board approved district realignments for the 2027-28 seasons across multiple classes. Notable changes include several Eastern Kentucky schools swapping districts in Class 2A, Letcher County Central moving to Region 7 in Class 3A, and Russell County and Breckinridge County shifting districts in Class 4A. Classes 1A, 5A, and 6A were approved without changes.
The Board also revamped the playoff format starting in 2027. While first-round matchups will remain between “sister districts,” second-round pairings will shift to an RPI-based system — similar to the current third-round format — to reduce repetitive annual matchups.
New Sports In an 11-6 vote, the Board directed staff to develop regulations for a pickleball championship beginning in the fall of 2027-28, after more than a third of KHSAA member schools expressed support. Girls’ Flag Football was approved 15-2 for the spring of 2027-28. By contrast, Stunt was tabled until the next membership survey due to limited interest.
Other Business The Board approved a proposal allowing member schools to compete against KCAA and KCSAA members in regular-season play, similar to existing rules for home-school competition. Track and Field/Cross Country realignment drafts were distributed for member feedback, with a final vote expected in July.
