Page 13 - 2024 Annual Report

2023–2024 Year in r eview 2023–2024 Year in r eview

Year in Biennial Sectional Realignments CREATING BALANCE
2023 - 2 4
Finding balanced sectional numbers
In 2023-24, sectional realignments were
revisited. This critical process occurs every
within multiple class models can
two years. This year’s realignments covered
be difficult. While it may seem
Review six classes in football, four in volleyball, straightforward to simply divide each
basketball, baseball, and softball, and three
class equally, that’s not always feasible—
in soccer. These adjustments are vital for
particularly in a four-class system.
addressing the dynamic nature of school
populations and maintaining competitive That’s because not every “1A” school
fields an athletic team for every team
integrity across all sports. Additionally, sport. To create balance in the number
the realignment process promotes healthy of schools competing in sectionals in a
rivalries between area schools, enhancing four-class system, placing the smallest
the excitement for fans and communities. 30% of enrollment schools in 1A helps
maintain that equity.
When a school moves to a different
sectional—whether changing class via
enrollment or through the tournament The IHSAA realizes that it’s not possible for
success factor—or a new school is added every school community to be placed in a
to a sectional, it creates a domino effect perfect sectional upon realignment. Still, the
across the state that our team evaluates. Association is committed to a data-driven
The process begins with a data-driven and community-inclusive process to ensure
approach, utilizing advanced software to that the sectional realignments are as fair
provide precise school size and geographic and beneficial as possible for all member
location data. However, this data is just the schools. By continually refining this process
starting point. and incorporating stakeholder feedback,
the IHSAA remains dedicated to fostering a
Realignment committees—composed competitive yet equitable environment for all
of athletic directors, principals, and student-athletes in Indiana.
superintendents from various regions
and school sizes—provide local insights To the committees who dedicate their time
and logistical considerations essential for and expertise to the realignment process,
creating practical and effective sectional the Association is deeply thankful for their
groupings. The committees are essential in invaluable contributions and essential
making sure we do not evaluate sectional insights that help shape the best possible
alignments in a silo. As each class, location, sectional alignments for Indiana high
and sport are evaluated, the realignment school sports.
committees help ensure the entire state is
being served, not just a single entity.

For football, the six classes were realigned
with 32 schools in the top two classes
(6A and 5A), 62 schools in 4A and 3A,
and 63 schools in 2A and 1A. In volleyball,
basketball, baseball, and softball, the
four-class structures were adjusted with
Throughout the year, the Association’s These actions illustrate the IHSAA’s the largest 20% of schools in 4A, the next
commitment to character and community resolve to constantly enhance the high 25% in 3A, the next 25% in 2A, and the
was evident in many ways, from collaborating school sports experience. They underscore final 30% in 1A. Soccer saw three classes
with member schools to forming new the Association’s commitment to ensuring with participating member schools Community support is essential to a healthy high
partnerships and impactful initiatives. that education-based athletics remain divided equally. school experience. During the Boys Basketball
equitable, competitive, and enriching for Sectionals, the Greenfield-Central student body
all of Indiana’s school communities and showed up in full force to support the Cougars.
student-athletes.

12 INDIANA HIGH SCHOOL A THLETIC A S SOCIA TION ANNUAL REPORT 2024 INDIANA HIGH SCHOOL A THLETIC A S SOCIA TION ANNUAL REPORT 2024 13