FHSAA Considers major Changes to High School Football Structure

On the eve of the final day of the football regular season, the Florida High School Athletic Association Board of Directors is preparing to vote on a proposal that would drastically alter the football landscape.

FHSAA executive director Craig Damon’s plan includes contracting the number of classes from eight (Classes 7A-1A, Rural) to six classes (Classes 5A-1A, Rural). It also would see a shift in the number of games teams schedule, eliminating mandatory district games and adding a district tournament.

This plan has several similar elements to the plan Damon floated in 2023, when he first proposed the open division. The open division, which places the top eight teams in the rankings into a separate division, will go into effect next season.

The board did not approve all of Damon’s plan in 2023, with several members voicing concerns over no longer having to schedule mandatory district games.

Here’s a by-the-numbers look at the proposal the board will be voting on.