Introduction:
The North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) has released the classifications for the 2025-29 realignment cycle, marking a significant shift from the traditional four-classification system to a new eight-classification model. This change aims to create more balanced and competitive athletic conferences across the state.
Body:
The new classifications are based on average daily membership (ADM) numbers submitted by public school units and officials. The goal is to form conferences where member schools are not more than one classification apart, ensuring fair competition and reducing travel burdens for student-athletes.
In the Greensboro–High Point area, traditional rivalries such as Grimsley-Page and Dudley-Smith are expected to continue as conference matchups under the new system. The reclassification has also resulted in some schools moving to different classifications based on their ADM numbers. For example, Northwest Guilford, currently in 4A, will be in Class 8A, while Reidsville, previously in 2A, will move to 4A.
NCHSAA Commissioner Que Tucker emphasized the importance of this realignment in promoting equitable competition. “The decision to expand from four to eight classifications was approved by the NCHSAA membership, and we look forward to entering a new era of interscholastic athletics in North Carolina,” Tucker said.
Conclusion:
The release of the 2025-29 cycle classifications by the NCHSAA represents a significant change in the landscape of high school athletics in North Carolina. By adopting an eight-classification system, the association aims to create a more balanced and competitive environment for student-athletes. The continued focus on traditional rivalries and equitable competition will be key to the success of this new model.
