What's Happening?
The Georgia High School Association (GHSA) has announced a significant change to its playoff seeding and selection process starting in the 2026-2027 season. The new system, known as the Post Season Rankings, will use a points-based formula to determine playoff eligibility and seeding. This formula will consider a team's overall winning percentage, the winning percentage of its opponents, and the strength of their opponents' competition. Only region champions will be guaranteed a playoff spot, marking a departure from the current system where the top four teams in a region automatically qualify.
Why It's Important?
This change is poised to impact high school sports in Georgia significantly. By prioritizing strength of schedule, the new system encourages teams to compete against higher-level opponents, potentially raising the overall competitiveness of high school sports. Coaches and athletic directors will need to strategically plan their schedules to optimize their chances of making the playoffs. The shift may also affect teams in weaker regions, as their postseason prospects could diminish despite strong records. This new approach aligns with the NCAA's RPI model, emphasizing quality wins over quantity.
Beyond the Headlines
The introduction of the Post Season Rankings could lead to broader implications for high school sports in Georgia. Teams may seek to form alliances or participate in tournaments to enhance their schedules. The emphasis on competitive play might foster a more rigorous athletic environment, potentially influencing recruitment and development strategies. Additionally, the change could spark debates about fairness and accessibility, particularly for smaller schools or those in less competitive regions. As the system is implemented, stakeholders will likely monitor its effects on the landscape of high school sports.
