AHSAA Splits Public, Private School Football: What’s Next?
The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) has made a significant change in its athletic structure by deciding to separate public and private schools for championship play. This pivotal decision will come into effect starting in the 2026-2027 academic year. The Central Board of the AHSAA voted 13-2 in favor of this new policy on a Friday morning session.
AHSAA Board Decision Details
The vote was led by board president Terry Curtis, along with Blount principal Jerome Woods, who were the only dissenting voices. AHSAA Executive Director Heath Harmon clarified that this move is aimed at restructuring championship pathways rather than promoting separation.
- Voting Results: 13 votes in favor, 2 against
- Effective Years: 2026-2027 and 2027-2028
Changes to Classification
Under the new framework, public schools will be organized into six classifications, with the top tier consisting of 32 teams. Meanwhile, private schools will be divided into larger and smaller school classifications. More details regarding the playoff structure for private schools will be announced later.
- Public Schools Classifications: 1-4A, 5A, and 6A
- Private Schools: Larger and smaller classifications
Impact on Playoffs and Future of Flag Football
This reclassification coincides with an expansion in girls’ flag football, which now features four classifications instead of two. Previously, the AHSAA had planned to release these changes in December; however, mediation related to the 2024 CHOOSE Act complicated the timeline.
This act pertains to the eligibility of private school athletes who benefit from the $7,000 transfer incentive. The AHSAA typically reassesses classifications every two years, relying on average daily membership figures provided by the state department of education for students in grades 8 to 11.
Elimination of Previous Assessments
In the past, private schools faced a 1.35 multiplier on student enrollments, affecting their classification. Other competitive balance measures also placed additional burdens on certain teams. With the new structure, these factors will no longer apply, granting private institutions their own championship pathways.
This decision marks a transformative chapter in AHSAA’s 104-year history, ensuring both public and private schools can compete more effectively without compromising competitive integrity.
