AAA-Non-Sports Blogs
05/05/21 – Board of Control Approves Football Playoff Format Changes for 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 5, 2021
The Board of Control conducted its final meeting of the 2020-21 academic year on Wednesday at the KHSAA Offices, during which time it addressed the football playoff structure after reviewing the results of a recent survey of the membership.
Following a presentation by the Football Coaches Association at its previous meeting regarding its preference for bracketing in the first two rounds of the playoffs, the board directed staff to seek a position from the official spokesperson from each member school (Principal or Designated Representative) per Bylaw 1 via a survey of the football playing schools.
The Board of Control originally changed football bracketing prior to the 2019 season to conduct play intra-district for those rounds, partially due to travel and financial concerns with those contests in prior years. The change, when implemented, was to span the entire four-year alignment period. The alternative was proposed within the membership to pair […]
05/05/21 – State Bass Fishing Championship Begins Friday at Kentucky Dam Marina
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 5, 2021
The eighth KHSAA State Bass Fishing Championship begins Friday morning at the Kentucky Dam Marina when 90 teams compete for the 2021 state title. The two-day KHSAA State Bass Fishing Championship (May 7-8), with Calvert City serving as official host city, begins each morning with the boat launch from Kentucky Dam Marina at 6:30 a.m. (Central). The weigh-ins are scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. each day and will be streamed live online at khsaa.tv.
Teams will launch in three flights each morning with a staggered return to the dock for weigh-ins. The launch order will then be reversed for the second day of the competition. Teams will start returning to the marina at 2:30 p.m. each day for the weigh-in, which will be streamed free of charge on the NFHS Network and available at khsaa.tv. Awards will be presented following day two’s weigh-in to the top […]
Bob Tucker retiring, leaving a lasting legacy at Somerset
BY MIKE FIELDS (April 23, 2021)
If Bob Tucker ever delves into his genealogy by signing up with one of those ancestry dot coms, he’ll no doubt discover a purple & gold strand in his DNA.
Somerset High School purple & gold.
Tucker’s grandmother, Mabel Muse, graduated from Somerset in the early 1900s.
His parents, Ralph and Christine, also attended the small school in Pulaski County.
His wife Sherrye is a proud Somerset alum, as are their sons Ryan and Neal.
Grandson Kannon will get his Somerset diploma in May.
And while Bob isn’t a Briar Jumpers’ grad – he was born in Somerset but his family moved to northern Kentucky when he was young, and he eventually went to Boone County High School – he bleeds purple & gold.
Tucker has spent the last 45 years at Somerset doing anything and everything for the school that owns a piece of his heart.
He has […]
AR102- State Archery Financials
Loading…04/26/21- Change in Masking Requirements for OUTDOOR Sports and Sport-Activities With Less than 1,000 attendees
Based on today’s previously unannounced notice regarding masking from the Governor’s Office and the Department for Public Health, immediate changes in all sports and sport-activities conducted outside are being implemented.
For all outdoor sports and outdoor sport-activities in KHSAA member high schools and regulated middle schools, the mask /face covering requirement is being suspended for any event or activity with less than 1,000 attendees. This will immediately remove the mask requirement at outdoor events with less than 1,000 attendees for coaches, uniformed players not in the contest, officials during various interactions during these contests and fans and administrators in attendance. This includes baseball, lacrosse, fastpitch softball, tennis, track and field, and bass fishing events with KHSAA schools. This would also apply to those schools conducting spring football practice. Masks / face coverings remain permissible in all sports, even if normally precluded by the playing rules, as a COVID accommodation.
Off-season outdoor activity by member schools […]
04/23/21 – Initial RPI Rankings, Stat Leader Reports Released for Baseball and Softball
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 23, 2021
The first official KHSAA Ratings Percentage Index (RPI) Rankings and the initial stat leader reports for the 2021 baseball and softball seasons have been posted at KHSAA.org.
The RPI (https://khsaa.org/rpi-ratings-percentage-index/) is a tool developed for all team sports by using the official KHSAA/Riherds Scoreboard data. It is provided for a variety of reasons including district tiebreaking and football bracketing, and as a means to increase publicity, interest and promotion. The Board of Control has approved the RPI to be used as a tiebreaking/contest result mechanism to decide seeded district games not played by the deadline.
The RPI rankings are updated on an hourly basis, but are not calculated for teams with missing scores from the previous day or earlier. For the 2021 baseball and softball seasons, COVID cancellations are marked on a team’s schedule as a 0-0 tie but are not factored into the RPI calculations and rankings.
[…]04/21/21 – KHSAA State Championships Begin Thursday For Swimming & Diving and Archery
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 21, 2021
The KHSAA State Swimming & Diving and KHSAA State Archery Championships will be conducted across various sites this week in response to COVID-19 restrictions on indoor events. The non-traditional format ensures the KHSAA is able to offer a culminating event for both Swimming & Diving and Archery, while advancing its standard number of qualifiers to the state championship.
The 2021 KHSAA State Archery Championships get underway Thursday morning at 9 a.m. Central, as Warren East HS hosts the Region 1 & 2 state qualifiers at Ephram White Gymnasium. The qualifiers from Regions 3, 5 & 9 will compete at Anderson County HS on Friday, April 23 with the competition beginning at 8:30 a.m. Eastern. Ryle High School (Regions 4, 6 & 7) and Lexington Christian Academy (Region 8, 10 & 11) will serve as the other host sites for the state championship, with their events split across Friday and […]
04/20/21- Change in COVID Guidance for Outdoor Sports and Sport-Activities
ATTENDANCE AT OUTDOOR CONTESTS
Following consultation with the Kentucky Department for Public Health and in the review of recent guidance and research, the attendance recommendations for all KHSAA sanctioned play will immediately move to 60% of documented capacity for venues with less than 1,000 capacity, and 50% for venues that hold a greater amount. This change is not compulsory on facilities but is the revised recommendation.
Remember that in calculating those limitations, it is logical to include only congregated seating in those determinations at outdoor venues. For example, in many track and field complexes, as well as baseball and softball stadiums, there are allowances for the placement of fans along fence lines and in parts of the parks that are not directly in bleacher or congregate seating areas. This would be a reasonable adaptation and application of the limits per our conversations with health authorities if those pods of individuals seated in those areas are […]
4/20/21 – Separate Weight Classes for Girls, Choice of Weight Classes Established in High School Wrestling
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — States will have a choice of 12, 13 or 14 weight classes for both boys and girls competition in high school wrestling, effective with the 2023-24 season.
This will be the first separate weight classes established for girls in high school wrestling, and it marks the first time that state associations will have a choice in the number of weight classes.
The landmark change in weight classes was one of several significant revisions recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Wrestling Rules Committee at its April 7-9 meeting held virtually this year. All recommendations were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
States must select one of the three sets (12, 13 or 14) of weight classes for girls and one of the three sets (12, 13 or 14) for boys. States cannot adopt all three sets and cannot switch back and forth during the season.
The […]
04/15/21 – Standing Forward Takeoffs Approved in High School Swimming and Diving Rules
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — In an effort to increase participation in high school swimming and diving, standing forward takeoffs have been approved, effective with the 2021-22 school year.
This significant addition to high school diving was one of several rules changes recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Swimming and Diving Rules Committee at its March 21-23 meeting held virtually this year. All of the committee’s recommended rules revisions were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
The addition to Rule 9-5-2 states that for standing takeoffs, “the diver will assume a starting position that includes an upright head and body with arms straight and in a position of the diver’s choice. The diver may move the arms to various preparatory positions provided there is no attempt to start the dive.”
The new language also notes that just before or after the starting position is assumed, the diver shall stop oscillating […]
04/13/21 – State Archery Championships To Be Conducted Across Four Sites
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 13, 2021
The 2021 KHSAA State Archery Championships will be conducted next week across four sites in response to COVID-19 guidelines and capacity restrictions. Conducting the championship in this manner will allow the KHSAA to have the full number of state qualifiers participate in the event, while also providing an opportunity for spectators to attend the competitions.
“Our office has been constantly involved over the last several months with our attempt to conduct some form of culminating event for Archery given the variety of restrictions in place for venues,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “While our desire for a single site has remained a priority, our main objective has been to conduct an event with the allowance for the same number of competitors as past years. Unfortunately, the combination of the pandemic, venue restrictions by the Commonwealth, and the number of qualifying competitors has made this objective unattainable.”
The finalized host […]
04/12/21- Senate Bill 128: Supplemental School Year Program Guidance for Sports and Sport-Activities
For a complete list of the provisions and information related to the implementation of SB128 and the SSYP, please see the following document-
04/11/21- Reminders about Off-season Team Sport Allowances and Restrictions
With the conclusion of basketball season, member schools are reminded of the regulations regarding off-season play. There have been no additional adjustments enacted, considered or contemplated at this time by the Commissioner’s office or the Board of Control for play by students and participation by coaches. While member schools are expected at all times to adhere to sport mitigation strategies as detailed in the COVID-19 documentation, no further adjustments to Bylaw 23 have been made.
The Bylaw references are Bylaw 23, listed in its entirety at https://bit.ly/2RGO1ZE, Section 1 of this bylaw applies to all sports and sport-activities.
Keep in mind the following references:
- Bylaw 23, Sec. 1 (c) – Defines the end of school. The rules prior to the end of school are somewhat more restrictive than the rules after the conclusion of the school year. Per Bylaw 23, the end of school is defined – For all interpretations and regulations concerning […]
Highlands’ Sweet 16 title is ‘mountaintop’ for Listermans
BY MIKE FIELDS (April 6, 2021)
It was an especially festive Easter for the Listerman clan when it got together on Sunday at the family home in California, Ky., a tiny dot on the map in rural Campbell County.
“There were a lot of smiles and giggles,” Kevin Listerman said. “And feeling blessed and amazed.”
Mike Listerman, Kevin’s dad, called it “a good celebration. And, of course, there was a lot of basketball talk.”
Of course there was a lot of basketball talk.
The night before, Kevin Listerman coached Highlands to the first Sweet 16 title in school history. The Bluebirds, led by tournament MVP Sam Vinson, rolled over Elizabethtown 79-60 in the finals in Rupp Arena.
When Kevin and his wife Ann arrived at his parents’ home on Sunday, they brought with them the KHSAA championship trophy.
Mike, a longtime coach, immediately thought of a photo op: He took the glistening hardware outside and […]
04/06/21 – Reducing Injury Risk During Inversions, Release Stunts and Tosses Focus of 2021-22 High School Spirit Rules Changes
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Adjusted points of contact that reduce injury risk during inversions and release stunts and tosses are the most notable revisions in the 2021-22 high school spirit rules.
At its recent virtual meeting, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Spirit Rules Committee produced rules changes that emphasized the committee’s continued focus on risk minimization. A total of seven proposals were recommended to the NFHS Board of Directors, which reviewed and later approved the changes to take effect next year.
“The NFHS Spirit Rules Committee continues its efforts to increase the health and safety of all cheer and dance participants,” said Dr. James Weaver, NFHS director of performing arts and sports and liaison to the NFHS Spirit Rules Committee. “This year’s rules changes allow for good safety practices and allow for education and practice in the sport of spirit.”
To reduce injury risk for the top person in a pyramid during […]
04/06/21 – Mingua Beef Jerky Girls’ Sweet 16® Begins Wednesday at Rupp Arena
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 6, 2021
The 2021 Mingua Beef Jerky Girls’ Sweet Sixteen® gets underway Wednesday morning at 11 a.m. when Knott County Central takes on Sacred Heart at Rupp Arena. The Valkyries played in the final game of last year’s Girls’ Sweet 16® before the event was postponed, and ultimately canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, falling to South Laurel, 58-57, on March 12, 2020.
Fans can follow all the action through live webcasts at KHSAA.tv or listen to the games online at KHSAA.net. The games will also be carried statewide across 40 stations through the Kentucky Utilities/KHSAA Sweet Sixteen® Radio Network, with the championship game airing locally in Lexington on iHeart Media’s The Bull ICONS 98.5 FM.
Due to current COVID-19 restrictions in place in conjunction with the Governor’s orders and Department for Public Health guidelines, seating is limited and online purchases are sold in sets of 2 to […]
04/05/21- Spring Sports Guidance Revision
TEMPERATURE CHECK AT CONTESTS AND PRACTICES
Following consultation with the Kentucky Department for Public Health and in the review of recent guidance and research, the requirement for monitoring the temperatures of attendees at athletic practices and contests has been suspended. While there remain considerable differences between an environment in near-exclusive school-aged student populations and events that gather the community in general, there does not appear to be a significant enough correlation between temperature and the virus to prevent the suspension of the requirement. While many COVID-positive patients do present with a fever, research over these last months is inconclusive as to cause, effect, and spread.
The guidance documents online will be changed in the coming days to reflect this change, but it can be implemented immediately and will mirror recent changes to the overall guidance from the Department of Education in its school day documentation. The references to temperature checks and alternative actions caused by […]
03/30/21 – Boys’ Sweet 16® Returns Wednesday at Rupp Arena
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 30, 2021
The 2021 KHSAA Boys’ Sweet 16® presented by UK HealthCare Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine makes its return to Rupp Arena on Wednesday afternoon when Knott County Central squares off against Elizabethtown at 11 a.m. With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing the cancellation of the 2020 state tournament, Wednesday’s opening game will be the first Boys’ Sweet 16® game played since Trinity (Lou.) defeated Scott County, 50-40, in the championship game on March 10, 2019.
Fans can follow all the action through live webcasts at KHSAA.tv or listen to the games online at KHSAA.net. The games will also be carried statewide across 46 stations through the Kentucky Utilities/KHSAA Sweet Sixteen® Radio Network, with the championship game airing locally in Lexington on iHeart Media’s The Bull ICONS 98.5 FM.
Due to current COVID-19 restrictions in place in conjunction with the current Governor’s orders and Department for Public Health guidelines, […]
Wayne Gaunce’s heart had sweet spot for Sweet 16
BY MIKE FIELDS (March 30, 2021)
When Wayne Gaunce passed away three months ago, at age 87, Kentucky high school basketball lost one of its most ardent, devoted, and generous fans.
Gaunce, a Nicholas County native who moved to Glasgow when he was 30 and became a successful restaurateur and entrepreneur, attended every Boys’ Sweet 16 since 1950.
“The state tournament was a way of life for him,” said his son Patrick. “You knew that come March, he was going to Louisville or Lexington no matter what. That was a sacred time for him.”
Gaunce already had his tickets and hotel room for the 2020 Sweet 16 before it was canceled because of the pandemic. “It was the first time in 71 years he didn’t get to go,” Patrick said.
Wayne Gaunce’s love for high school hoops wasn’t limited to the state tournament.
He and his wife Pat had a place on Kentucky Lake, and […]
03/25/21 – State Wrestling Championships Conclude Saturday at George Rogers Clark HS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 25, 2021
The 2021 KHSAA State Wrestling Championships conclude Saturday in Winchester as the event makes its inaugural appearance at George Rogers Clark HS for the final round. Due to COVID-19 attendance restrictions, Saturday’s event is already sold out, but each bout will be broadcast live by Trackwrestling and available at KHSAA.tv for subscribers to the NFHS Network.
Gates open for fans at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday with championship bracket matches (bouts 1-56) starting at 9 a.m. across four mats. Championship and consolation bracket action will continue (bouts 57-112 and 113-140) until the meet reaches the consolation bracket finals, at which point the event will go down to three mats for the seventh, fifth and third place matches (bouts 141-182). Once the competition reaches the championship bracket finals, the final competitors will be introduced and the championship matches will be contested one at a time (bouts 183-196).
Action from each […]
03/23/21 – Interim Advisory to Basketball Ticket Holders, Rupp Arena Ticket Transfer Process, Between Games and Clear Bag Policy
ELECTRONIC TICKETING
- This is the first year of a permanent change where the events (and nearly all Rupp Arena and major venue events) will be using electronic ticketing, and no more commemorative or traditional paper tickets will be issued.
- We know that can cause issues as we all learn more about the options, so our friends at the Rupp Arena box office, who handle all of our ticket records and fulfillment, have produced a helpful, short video on how to transfer one or more tickets to someone else.
- Though our office is still involved in assigning specific seats to specific individuals, these professionals have gone out of their way to be of assistance. That video is located at https://youtu.be/3liwBnciSJU, you should take a look if you desire to use send any of your tickets to someone else.
TICKETS AND SCHEDULE
- Keep in mind this year that the tournament this year is […]
03/23/21 – Nominations for KHSAA Student Advisory Group/NFHS National Student Leadership Summit Now Being Accepted
The KHSAA is seeking applications to become a member of its Student Advisory Group. One of the main duties of the group is the planning and execution of its HYPE Student Leadership Conferences. Those chosen attend the NFHS National Student Leadership Summit in July and then manage the KHSAA HYPE Conferences.
The National Federation of State High School Associations offers a student leadership initiative – the National Student Leadership Summit (NSLS). The NSLS will focus on relevant and contemporary issues affecting today’s students in education-based athletics and performing arts. Students will sharpen their leadership skills and will realize the privilege and power of their influence in their school, community, and state.
At this time, the NFHS is planning on an in-person Summit scheduled for July 20-22, 2021 in Indianapolis. If selected, expenses from Lexington to Indianapolis are covered (meals, lodging, transportation). By applying and being selected, the student is acknowledging that he/she will be […]
03/22/21 – NFHS Officials Part 2 Exam Now Online for BA, FP, TR
NFHS Part 2 exams for licensed officials in the sports of Baseball, Fast Pitch Softball, and Track & Field are now available online. The Part 2 exams will be open until Monday, April 5 at 11:59 p.m. (ET). After not being able to be on the field or track last spring we know everyone is excited about this season.
The tests will automatically close on April 5 at 11:59 p.m. (ET). Login at https://officials.khsaa.org/authorize/ to take the test. A minimum score of 80 on the exam is required to be considered for assignment to officiate postseason play. The exam is also used for advancements in levels of classification.
First-year officials are not required to take the exam, however, if any first-year official has completed licensing requirements, the test may be taken.
Any official determined to have been involved in the improper administration of the exam, including taking it for another official or having it […]
03/22/21 – Last Call for Complete Sets of Tickets to KHSAA Boys’ Sweet 16® Presented by UK HealthCare & Orthopaedics
A limited number of sets of tickets (books of seats for the entire tournament) are available for the KHSAA Boys’ Sweet 16® Tournament presented by UK HealthCare and Orthopaedics. The tournament will be held from March 31 to April 3. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions in place in conjunction with the current Governor’s orders and Department for Public Health guidelines, seating is limited and online purchases are sold in sets of 2 to 6 seats for the entire tournament. Adjust the Qty in the top left portion of the screen and then click on the illuminated section(s) to see available inventory in the desired quantity. The available sets of tickets for all fifteen games will be sold through Friday, March 26 after which time, all seats will be single tickets for each game.
03/21/21 – State Bowling Championships Begin Monday at Executive Strike & Spare
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 21, 2021
The 10th-annual KHSAA State Bowling Championships return to Executive Strike & Spare this week with a modified three-day schedule. The boys’ team and singles competition will open the week on Monday, March 22 with the boys’ team event starting at 8:15 a.m. and the singles tournament slated to begin at 2:40 p.m. The girls’ team and singles championships will be held on Tuesday, March 23 and follow the same time schedule as the boys’ competition, with the Unified Championship slated to start at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 24. A limited number of tickets are available and can only be purchased online in advance of the event at https://gofan.co/app/school/KHSAA.
The boys’ and girls’ team events will begin with two qualifying games in order to seed the squads in a 16-team bracket, with the state champion determined through baker games. For the Boys’ and Girls’ Singles Championship, each competitor […]
03/19/21 – Fan Cutouts Available for Boys’ and Girls’ Sweet Sixteen®
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 19, 2021
The Boys’ and Girls’ Sweet Sixteen® is back!!! Commemorate the return of the Greatest Show in Hoops to Rupp Arena by recognizing yourself or your loved ones with this once in a lifetime opportunity. Celebrate your fandom by showing your school spirit or pay tribute to your favorite student-athlete, by purchasing a fan cutout to be displayed during the boys’ and girls’ tournaments.
Purchased fan cutouts will be displayed in Rupp Arena during both the Boys’ and Girls’ Sweet Sixteen®. The 2021 KHSAA Boys’ Sweet Sixteen® presented by UK HealthCare Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine will be held March 31-April 3, followed by the 2021 Mingua Beef Jerky Girls’ Sweet Sixteen® on April 7-10.
To claim your spot at Rupp Arena, visit https://shop.fancutouts.com/products/kentucky-high-school-athletic-association-cutouts
Purchase by […]
03/19/21- Welcome Back Media to Winter Championships
From Commissioner Julian Tackett and the staff of the KHSAA.
Hello to all of the members of both the Kentucky Press Association and Kentucky Broadcasters Association. When we gathered and then adjourned abruptly at Rupp Arena last March, most of us had no idea what the next 12 months would hold. We left that fateful afternoon hopeful for a short pause and then the “normal” completion of the tournaments, followed by a complete spring season. Little did we know.
First, thank you. Thank you for your faithful service to our Commonwealth and, most importantly, to our member schools and communities and their most important asset, the students in our schools. We know you value each of them, whether or not they participate in sports and sport-activities, but we also know that the participants in sports and activities hold a place near and dear to so many of you.
Thank you also for your tremendous work […]
03/17/21 – Baseball Playing Rules COVID Guidance Clarifications
We have received inquiries about the COVID-related modifications to NFHS rules published within the Baseball Healthy at Sports Return to Competition Guidance as well as what was published in the online rules clinic that was finalized in mid-February. To assist administrators, coaches, and umpires in preparing for the first segment of the season we will address these below.
- Since the pitcher may not put their hands to the mouth off of the mound and touch the ball, are there any options? Yes, a cloth dampened with water may be used and stored in the back pocket of the uniform.
- What is the penalty if a pitcher forgets and puts their hands to the mouth while off the mound? You would provide a new ball that has been sanitized and simply discard the used ball to be sanitized.
- Since the pitcher may not blow into their hands on a cold day, are there options? […]
03/17/21 – Boys’ Sweet 16® Adds UK HealthCare Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine as Presenting Sponsor
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 17, 2021
The KHSAA Boys’ Sweet Sixteen® and event participants around the Commonwealth received a boost this week as UK HealthCare Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine reached an agreement to become the presenting sponsor of this year’s event. One of the Association’s two Platinum Level corporate partners, along with Spalding, UK HealthCare Orthopaedics became the title sponsor of the state football finals in 2019 – the first of a four-year deal.
“UK HealthCare Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine is proud to sponsor the KHSAA Boys’ Sweet Sixteen Basketball tournament,” said Cynde Estep, UK HealthCare Senior Market Development Manager. “We have a long history of expert care of high school and collegiate athletes, and with the largest and most experienced sports medicine group in the area, we look forward to caring for all of the athletes of the KHSAA to keep them in the game.”
UK HealthCare Orthopaedics, which has been a […]
03/16/21 – KMEA’s John Stroube Named NFHS Heart of the Arts Section 2 Award Winner
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has chosen Kylen Running Hawk, a student at Morris Area High School in Morris, Minnesota, as the 2021 national recipient of the National High School Heart of the Arts Award.
The National High School Heart of the Arts Award is now in its seventh year and was created by the NFHS to recognize those individuals who exemplify the ideals of the positive heart of the arts and represent the core mission of education-based activities.
Kylen Running Hawk’s love for the theatre was nurtured very early in his life thanks to television commercials for the annual Medora Musical – a summer show held near his native Standing Rock Reservation in North Dakota that he would later describe as “the most spectacular thing” he’d ever seen. However, the likelihood he would find his own success as a stage performer seemed improbable given the obstacles in […]
03/16/21 – Esports Nominations Sought for Midway Student-Athlete of the Year Awards
This message is being sent to Athletic Directors and Head Coaches in the sport-activity of Esports …
The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Male and Female Student-Athlete of the Year Award among Esports participants for 2020-2021 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2020-2021 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but can be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/
The winner will be announced early in the postseason and recognized at an awards banquet at Midway University in early summer 2021. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the overall 2020-2021 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year and announced at the banquet. All winners will […]
03/10/21 – Bass Fishing Nominations Sought for Midway Student-Athlete of the Year Awards
The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Male and Female Student-Athlete of the Year Award among Bass Fishing participants for 2020-2021 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2020-2021 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but can be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/
The winner will be announced early in the postseason and recognized at an awards banquet at Midway University in early summer 2021. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the overall 2020-2021 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year and announced at the banquet. All winners will also receive their recognition at that banquet.
The deadline for nominations for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete […]
Anxiously Awaiting Return of Fans in High School Sports, Performing Arts
By Karissa Niehoff, Executive Director of the National Federation of State High School Associations and Julian Tackett, Commissioner of the Kentucky High School Athletic Association.
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted everyday life for almost a year at this point. There is hardly anyone who would dispute the validity of that statement. To survive and continue moving forward during the past 12 months, we have been faced with finding new ways to accomplish our daily tasks.
Instead of meeting face to face with a group of people, we converse with people in rectangles on computer screens.
Instead of sitting together with family and friends in crowded restaurants, we pay someone to bring the food to our homes.
Instead of those shopping sprees at the nearest mall, we order online and provide more business for the army of overnight delivery vehicles in our neighborhoods.
In high school sports and performing arts, everyone from the students to coaches, […]
03/09/21- Seeded District Reminders
Over the last couple of days, we have had several questions regarding district seeding and it is best that we summarize a few things before the deadline to play those games tomorrow. Nothing about this information is new, but these do represent the number of questions that have been received.
All of this relates solely to seeded district games.
From the January 15 notice to the schools-
TIEBREAKING GAMES-WHICH GAME
A reminder from the guidance document, if a district has voted to play multiple times for seeding, the first game played shall be the tiebreaking game in the seed pattern, regardless of previous decisions. Much like decisions to have senior night activities very early, as many are doing, there is no guarantee of the second game, and this will ensure that as much as possible, ties are broken on the court. In specific districts, those schools voted again after the original guidance was issued and […]
03/05/21 – Change in Attendance Limitation Recommendation
We have confirmed that officially, effective today, all of the guidance limitations within the Governor’s orders on a variety of venues have been changed. The venue recommendations for limitation have been changed throughout the state increasing by ten percent each. Therefore the recommended maximum attendance threshold is increased to 25% of capacity effective today for indoor events hosted by our member schools. While this remains guidance, it is obviously in the best interest, legally and otherwise, of our member schools. Universal masking remains required, social distancing is to be consistently applied to the fullest extent possible.
It is certainly not required to change current procedures, but this does give them some planning time for upcoming events week. Guidance documents for spring outdoor events will be revised in the coming days to reflect this change.
From talking to so many of you, there remains considerable confusion in our membership as to the differences between “venues” as […]
03/02/21 – Sweet 16® Draw Show to Air March 10th on CW Lexington, KHSAA.tv
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 2, 2021
Pairings for the 2021 Mingua Beef Jerky Girls’ Sweet Sixteen® and the KHSAA Boys’ Sweet Sixteen® will be revealed on Wednesday, March 10th at 12:30 p.m. (ET) when the annual Sweet 16® Draw Show is televised by The CW Lexington. The Sweet 16® Draw Show will also be streamed live online at KHSAA.tv and WKYT.com.
Both tournaments will be held at Rupp Arena, with the 103rd installment of the Boys’ Sweet 16® taking place March 31-April 3, followed by the 60th Girls’ Sweet 16® on April 7-10. Ticket availability will be limited in light of COVID-19 attendance restrictions, with more information available in the coming days.
Each game of the boys’ and girls’ Sweet 16® will be webcast live at khsaa.tv for subscribers to the NFHS Network. By purchasing a month pass to the NFHS Network, fans can watch all 30 games of the girls’ and boys’ […]
03/01/21 – Wrestling Postseason Update
Dates and sites for the 2021 KHSAA State Wrestling Championships have been determined. Postseason instructions and details will be released in a few days with many more details. These events will be managed through the KHSAA including ticket sales and assignment of officials. All events will be held within the most restrictive of state and local COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions, including an absolute requirement of universal masking of all except for the competitors in action at the time and social distancing to the fullest extent possible.
The State First Round will be conducted as a full-wrestleback (consolation to 3rd place) format in each weight class, seeded by TrackWrestling/FloSports data and criteria following regions. The top-two from each weight class bracket at each First Round site will then advance to the final state round. Below are the host sites for each round taking place at four sites on March 20th:
- State First Round Site #1 (8 […]
03/01/21 – Swimming and Diving Postseason Updates
(Updated 3/11/21)
Following the February Board meeting, the staff has been working to re-confirm postseason sites while also finalizing plans for the swimming and diving postseason. The following is the current status of those postseason plans:
Attendance
Based upon building limitations and to maximize student participation, there will be no spectators at postseason swimming and diving events.
Swimming Region
All events will be timed finals only.
Regions may be conducted during the two-week window beginning April 5-17. Staff continues to work with managers in securing the schedule of dates and times. Region sites are as follows:
Region Site Date(s) Host School 1 Hopkinsville Boys’ & Girls’ SW-Sat., April 10 – Final Schedule TBD Hopkinsville 2 Owensboro Health Park Girls’ SW-Tues., April 13, 10:15 a.m.Boys’ SW-Thurs., April 15, 10:15 a.m. Owensboro Catholic 3 Russell County
Boys’ & Girls; SW-Sat., April 10, 11:30 a.m. CST – Final Schedule TBD
Russell County […]03/01/21 – Dawahares/KHSAA Hall of Fame Banquet Set for July 24 in Lexington
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 1, 2021
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association will induct its Class of 2020 into the Dawahares/KHSAA Hall of Fame presented by Roberts Insurance on Saturday, July 24, 2021, at the Embassy Suites Lexington. The banquet, originally scheduled for May of 2020, was postponed last spring due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 12-member Class of 2020 will be the 33rd inducted into the Dawahares/KHSAA Hall of Fame, and consists of former high school coaches, athletes, officials, administrators, and contributors; and will bring the total number of honorees in the Hall of Fame to 491. The 2020 inductees are:
- CHARLIE ADKINS (Coach / Paintsville)
- GREG BUCKNER (Athlete / University Heights)
- DONNIS BUTCHER (Athlete / Meade Memorial)
- JOEY COUCH (Athlete / Paintsville)
- GARY DEARBORN (Contributor / Harrison County & Pendleton County)
- SAM HARP (Coach / Danville)
- ROBERT JOE “BOBBY” LYNCH (Athlete / Ashland Blazer)
- SHARAE MANSFIELD (Athlete / DuPont Manual) […]
02/24/21 – Bass Fishing Rules Clinic Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport-activity of Bass Fishing is available beginning today, February 24, 2021. Remember, the clinic is required of all coaches at the varsity, junior varsity, and freshmen levels, regardless of whether or not the coach receives pay. Below is additional information:
COACHES
- February 24 to March 16 (Coaches) – the Bass Fishing Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
- March 17 to April 5 (Coaches) – the Bass Fishing Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
- April 6 to April 19 (Coaches) – the Bass Fishing Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($200) per the Bylaw 27 schedule during this period. After this time, postseason penalties per Bylaw 27 will apply.
The presentation can be viewed on most PC […]
02/21/21- District and Region Basketball Scheduling of Games
As we continually review public health data, consult with the Department for Public Health, and refer to our own “Healthy at Sports” guidance document, a standard minimum time between the start of contests at the district and regional postseason events has again been established as was the case in the fall. These minimum times and spacing guidelines will also be utilized in planning KHSAA State Championship Events, likely to an even greater extent.
Per the KHSAA’s “Healthy at Sports” guidance document, in events where more than two schools are involved, it is required for there to be time between contests for egress of fans and participants, sanitization of equipment and restrooms, and ingress of the teams for the next game. In considering this requirement, a realistic standard has been developed.
When developing brackets for basketball, there should be a minimum of two hours between the start of contests being held on the same […]
02/20/21- Interim Guidance Regarding Spring Sports Travel
While spring sports guidance is in final production, the office has received several inquiries regarding travel for spring sports. There will effectively be no changes from the winter sports guidance and each guidance document will include enhancements and sources available at the present time. The following represents the recommended guidance for the member schools and will be published in the guidance documents for all spring sports and sport-activities.
Restrictions/Recommendations On In-State Contests
- While local decision-making is a hallmark relative to the management of Kentucky schools, there remain several recommendations relative to team travel in- and out-of-state. (CONSIDER)
- This guidance is not intended to make local district decisions less or more difficult or provide an arbitrary decision path for such consideration, but rather to ensure that all issues are considered as travel is contemplated. (CONSIDER)
- This guidance and similar guidance from the KHSAA, KDE and KDPH is aimed at mitigating the risk of COVID-19 exposure […]
02/22/21 – Baseball Online Rules Clinic Now Available
The 2021 Online Rules Clinic that is required for all head and assistant coaches and licensed officials in the sport of Baseball is now available. The clinic is required for ALL coaches at each school, head or assistant, paid or unpaid.
As a reminder, here are some important dates about the upcoming season:
- First Practice: February 22
- First Contest: March 29
- Maximum Number of Scrimmages: 2
- Maximum Number of Games: 36
- District: May 31 – June 5 (play could begin on 5/29)
- Region: June 7 – June 11 (play could begin on 6/5)
- Semi-State: June 12
- Tentative State Dates: June 16-19
CLINICS – HEAD AND ASSISTANT COACHES
For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, log in to https://schools.khsaa.org and — under the section entitled Rules Clinics — click on the link entitled “View Online Rules Clinics“.
- February 22 – April 20: the […]
02/15/21 – Board of Control Election Procedures
BOARD OF CONTROL BALLOT – BOARD OF CONTROL ELECTIONS – INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE BALLOT:
- Balloting is ONLY done online for these positions.
- All schools from Basketball Regions 1, 2, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 have at least one election in which to ballot. Other schools may disregard this notice.
- Balloting was available per the Constitution beginning on February 15.
- Only the Principal or Designated Representative may vote. The names on file as verified by the KHSAA website at the time of this ballot distribution are listed on the school directory page at http://khsaa.org/general/resources/member-school-directory/.
- If the wrong individual is listed as the Designated Representative, the correction may be made by anyone with Athletic Director system rights (Principal, AD) prior to the ballot being submitted. For support in correcting these entries, contact Rob Catron or Kara Howard at the KHSAA offices, however the change will be for all […]
02/19/21 – Board of Control Updates Status of Winter Championships
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 19, 2021
The Board of Control conducted a virtual meeting this week in light of the State of Emergency declared for Kentucky due to severe weather conditions, during which time staff outlined postseason options for the upcoming winter championships.
The state bowling championships will be adjusted to a three-day format to allow for facility cleaning and appropriate ingress/egress. Gender-specific competition will be contested on the same day (the boys’ team and single competition on one day, the girls’ events on the next day, followed by the unified/adapted championships) to help alleviate travel concerns. The 2021 state tournament will tentatively be held March 22-24 (Mon.-Wed.) and will follow attendance restrictions per state guidelines.
The continued attendance restrictions in place statewide for aquatic centers necessitate a change for the 2021 swimming & diving postseason. Of the nine sites selected to host regional competition, only one site is currently allowing fan attendance, but even […]
02/18/21 – Esports Rules Clinic Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport-activity of Esports is now available online. Remember, the clinic is required of all coaches at the varsity, junior varsity, and freshmen levels, regardless of whether or not the coach receives pay. Below is additional information:
COACHES
- February 15 to April 5 (Coaches) – the Esports Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
- April 6 to April 25 (Coaches) – the Esports Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
- April 26 to May 3 (Coaches) – the Esports Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($200) per the Bylaw 27 schedule during this period. After this time, postseason penalties per Bylaw 27 will apply.
The presentation can be viewed on most PC or Mac desktops and laptops, along with […]
02/08/21 – Face Masks, Religious Headwear Major Topics of 2021 Field Hockey Rules Changes
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Guidance for the use of face masks and the allowance of religious headwear to be worn during play without state association consent are among the most significant rules changes that will take effect with the 2021 high school field hockey season.
During its virtual meeting held January 11-13, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Field Hockey Rules Committee included these subjects in its list of eight proposed rules changes that were reviewed and later approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
“Given that many schools played a modified or shortened season with the 2020 rules and some have not yet played or may not play, the committee thought it wise to limit changes to the 2021 rules,” said Anna Saccoccio, chair of the NFHS Field Hockey Rules Committee. “Safety of players is always a main concern, and the 2021 rules will clarify any confusion and concerns around the use […]
02/05/21 – Blocking Below the Waist in Free-Blocking Zone Addressed in High School Football Rules
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – The rule regarding blocking below the waist in the free-blocking zone in high school football has been revised for the upcoming 2021 season.
This rule change was recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Football Rules Committee at its January 10-12 meeting, which was held virtually this year. This change to the 2021 NFHS Football Rules Book was subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
As a result of numerous interpretations of current language regarding blocking below the waist in the free-blocking zone, the committee approved another condition in Rule 2-17-2 that must be met for a legal block below the waist in the free-blocking zone, which is a rectangular area extending laterally 4 yards either side of the spot of the snap and 3 yards behind each line of scrimmage.
The new requirement (2-17-2c) is that the block must be an immediate, initial action following the […]
01/28/21 – NFHS Announces Universal Tennis as New Official Partner
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has announced a new official partnership with Universal Tennis, a global online platform for connecting players, coaches, clubs and federations to grow the sport.
Universal Tennis is most widely known for the Universal Tennis Rating (UTR), a system that provides an accurate rating for every participating tennis player in the world regardless of age, gender or nationality. The UTR algorithm uses scores and quality of opponents from a player’s past 30 eligible matches to calculate a listing value on a point scale between 1 and 16.50. Players also have access to additional statistics that allow for a better understanding of personal performance as they track their improvement. With more than 2.3 million users from about 125 countries, UTR seeks to help players find better matches for any skill level.
“The NFHS is excited to partner with Universal Tennis to help enhance the game […]
02/04/21 – Religious Headwear Permitted Without State Association Approval in High School Volleyball
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — High school volleyball players will no longer need to obtain state association approval to wear religious headwear during competition. The rule change highlights three changes approved for the 2021-22 season.
The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Volleyball Rules Committee conducted its annual meeting January 10-12 in a virtual setting and recommended three rules changes that were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
“The Volleyball Rules Committee strongly considered both the financial impact and participation restrictions COVID-19 had on schools and state associations during the 2020-21 season as they approached the proposed rules changes,” said Lindsey Atkinson, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the Volleyball Rules Committee. “In doing so, the committee focused on rules that make the sport more inclusive by easing the restrictions on religious headwear, provided state associations with more flexibility in regard to officials uniforms, and lessened the penalty for a late lineup.”
[…]02/04/21 – 2020-2021 Title IX Annual Report and Participation List Submission
Schools are now able to access all of the required online forms to submit their 2020-2021 Title IX Annual Reports. The information in this post presents a summary for each school as you work to complete the required Annual Participation Report as well as the Title IX Report for 2020-2021.
- The deadline for submission is April 30, 2021.
- The online system is currently available for entry and is the only acceptable means of submitting the report.
- If you have specific questions about Title IX and the law itself, our office should be able to help get you some assistance. Asst. Commissioner Darren Bilberry (dbilberry@khsaa.org) is our primary contact for your questions related to the law and its interpretations, and the Commissioner and General Counsel are available should you have other inquiries of that type.
- As for the reports, Information Technology Director Rob Catron (rcatron@khsaa.org) can assist you with electronic issues, including login and report […]
02/03/21 – Archery Nominations Sought for Male and Female Midway Student-Athlete of the Year Awards
The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Male and Female Student-Athlete of the Year Award among Archery participants for 2020-2021 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2020-2021 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but can be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/
The winner will be announced early in the postseason and recognized at an awards banquet at Midway University in early summer 2021. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the overall 2020-2021 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year and announced at the banquet. All winners will also receive their recognition at that banquet.
The deadline for nominations for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of […]
02/03/21 – Archery Rules Clinic Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport-activity of Archery is available beginning today, February 3, 2021. Remember, the clinic is required of all coaches at the varsity, junior varsity, and freshmen levels, regardless of whether or not the coach receives pay. Below is additional information:
COACHES
- February 3 to February 22 (Coaches) – the Archery Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
- February 23 to March 7 (Coaches) – the Archery Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
- March 8 to March 15 (Coaches) – the Archery Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($200) per the Bylaw 27 schedule during this period. After this time, postseason penalties per Bylaw 27 will apply.
The presentation can be viewed on most PC or Mac desktops and laptops, along […]
02/01/21 – Initial Basketball RPI Rankings Available
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 1, 2021
The first official KHSAA Ratings Percentage Index (RPI) Rankings of the 2020-21 basketball season are now available on the Association’s website (https://khsaa.org/rpi-ratings-percentage-index/).
The RPI is a tool developed for all team sports by using the official KHSAA/Riherds Scoreboard data. It is provided for a variety of reasons including district tiebreaking and football bracketing, and as a means to increase publicity, interest and promotion. The Board of Control has approved the RPI to be used as a tiebreaking/contest result mechanism to decide seeded district games not played by the deadline.
The RPI rankings are updated on an hourly basis, but are not calculated for teams with missing scores from the previous day or earlier. For the 2020-21 basketball season, COVID cancellations are marked on a team’s schedule as a 0-0 tie but are not factored into the RPI calculations and rankings.
RPI measures a team’s strength relative to other […]
01/29/21 – Applications Being Accepted for Louis Stout Memorial Scholarships for 20-21
When former Commissioner Louis Stout passed away in 2012, his widow Anna directed that donations on his behalf go to the Louis Stout Memorial Fund for Students. She felt this was a chance for the KHSAA to honor student-athletes who excel in athletics, academics, school service and community service. The award process for 2020-2021 is now underway.
Applications are being accepted for students to apply for those awards through Sunday, February 28, 2021. The award winners will be announced in conjunction with the boys’ state basketball tournament in March. Two grants, each in the amount of a one-time scholarship of $2,000 payable to an institution of higher learning, will be awarded. The scholarship is not renewable and is not endowed for expansion. Minimum criteria is a 3.5 (converted to 4.0 scale) grade point average; involvement in varsity sports or sport-activities; involvement in other school activities, a record of community service/involvement and a member of the […]
01/27/21 – Three KHSAA Coaches Receive Section II Coach of the Year Honors
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 27, 2021
Three KHSAA coaches were chosen as Section II Coach of the Year winners for 2019-20 by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Coaches Association as part of its annual recognition program. Oldham County’s Kirk Thomas was the Section II honoree in girls’ cross country, while Elizabethtown’s Karen Henson was selected for girls’ tennis. Sacred Heart’s Donna Moir was the Section II award winner in girls’ basketball, where she was also the recipient of the National Coach of the Year award from the NFHS Coaches Association.
The NFHS, which has been recognizing coaches through an awards program since 1982, honors coaches in the top 10 girls sports and top 10 boys sports (by participation numbers), and in two “other” sports – one for boys and one for girls – that are not included in the top 10 listings. The NFHS also recognizes a spirit coach as a […]
01/27/21 – Initial Basketball Stat Leader Reports Released
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 27, 2021
The first statistical leader reports of the 2020-21 season for girls’ and boys’ basketball have been posted at KHSAA.org. The leader reports will be updated every day at approximately 3 a.m., and will include all teams missing stats for no more than two games.
Statistical entry is required of all member schools, and those failing to meet the requirement to enter stats are subject to penalties from the Commissioner, including fines and other actions within the constraints of Bylaw 27. Member schools are solely responsible for submitting statistical information. If a school or individual is omitted, or information is not updated, that means the team in question did not update its statistics through the KHSAA’s online system prior to the deadline.
The requirement to enter statistics, which has been in place for several years, was reiterated to coaches during the online rules clinic. Statistical entry has the benefit of […]
01/26/21- Reminders about Sports and Sport-Activity Return to Play
In the past couple of weeks, there have been several questions regarding the COVID-19 Return to Play protocol. There have been no changes to the protocol since it was adopted early part of the fall prior to the start of play, but the questions coming in lately indicate the need for a refresher.
Rather than detail the policy again in this post, both the required and recommended elements can be reviewed on the KHSAA website at https://bit.ly/2SQDOxm
Below are listed various questions that have been presented and the appropriate responses. This information will be updated as necessary as either additional inquiries occur, or further data or recommendations are issued.
What is the difference between isolation and quarantine?
- Isolation separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick. (dealing with the person who has tested positive)
- Quarantine separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious […]
01/26/21- Basketball Nominations Sought for Male and Female Midway Student Athlete-of-the-Year Awards
The nomination process for the Midway University/KHSAA Male and Female Student-Athlete-of-the-Year among rostered Basketball participants for 2020-2021 is now open.
This award is based on athletic and academic achievement as well as community service and leadership. The link to the application contains additional criteria and a form to nominate one participant from each 2020-2021 team. Nominations must come from a member school, but can be submitted by an administrator, guidance counselor, or coach. Nominations may only be submitted online at https://khsaa.org/ge35-midway-university-khsaa-female-student-athlete-of-the-year-nomination-form/
The winner will be announced early in the postseason and recognized at an awards banquet scheduled to be held at Midway University in early summer 2021. From the winners selected for each KHSAA championship, one student-athlete will be selected as the 2020-2021 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete-of-the-Year and announced at that time. All winners will also receive their recognition awards at that time.
The deadline for nominations for the Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year […]
01/25/21 – List of Items for Annual Required Financial Aid Report
As you may recall, the 2019-20 financial aid report was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is now time for ALL KHSAA member schools to complete the required annual financial aid report in compliance with Bylaw 11 for the 2019-2020 academic year. In an effort to assist Principals and Athletic Directors in preparing for this report, this checklist of information is provided so that you can spend a few days gathering the required data and information prior to the deadline to complete the report.
The link to submit the financial aid report will become active on February 1 and member schools will have until Feb. 28 to meet the requirement. Gathering this information before the link is sent on February 1 should allow you to quickly complete the report in an expedited fashion. Assistant Commissioner Sarah Bridenbaugh (sbridenbaugh@khsaa.org) will be the contact for sending out the request for submissions and should be able […]
01/25/21 – 2019-20 National Coaches of the Year Selected by NFHS Coaches Association
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Twenty-three high school coaches from across the country have been selected as 2020 National Coaches of the Year by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Coaches Association.
The NFHS, which has been recognizing coaches through an awards program since 1982, honors coaches in the top 10 girls sports and top 10 boys sports (by participation numbers), and in two “other” sports – one for boys and one for girls – that are not included in the top 10 listings. The NFHS also recognizes a spirit coach as a separate award category. Winners of NFHS awards must be active coaches during the year for which they receive their award. This year’s awards recognize coaches for the 2019-20 school year.
Recipients of this year’s national awards for boys sports are: Ron Murphy, baseball, Rio Rancho (New Mexico) High School; Jerry Petitgoue, basketball, Cuba City (Wisconsin) High School; Kevin Ryan, cross country, […]
1/25/21 – First Phase (T-35 Report) Open for Title IX Reporting Entry for 2020-2021 and Student Survey Administration
The initial phase of entry for the 2020-2021 Title IX Reports, the ability to enter the financial information from 2019-20 to be entered on the 2020-2021 form T-35, is available and online at schools.khsaa.org. There have been only minimal changes based on the great cooperation and feedback from the membership.
T35 EMPHASIS POINTS
There has been a continual effort to eliminate inconsistent information that has been entered on that form, and the following points are emphasized:
- Entry for the T35 is now open. Login to https://schools.khsaa.org and begin entry when you are ready.
- The T35 requires you to enter 2019-2020 expense information, as it has been audited within your school and district.
- Your previous Annual Reports can be quickly reviewed in the KHSAA School Subdomain (the login page) by clicking on the tab labeled Past Title IX Annual Reports, in case you want to review past submissions.
- The T35 is to be entered with all […]
01/21/21 – Board of Control Reviews Status of Winter and Spring Sports
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 21, 2021
The Board of Control held its fourth regularly-scheduled meeting of the 2020-21 academic year on Thursday at the KHSAA Office, conducting a thorough status review of ongoing operations and championship plans. Staff provided an overview of all winter and spring sports and sport-activities, while outlining considerations and options for the winter events that will be presented for final review at the Board’s next meeting on Feb. 17.
“Today’s meeting provided an opportunity to update the Board of Control and our constituency on the various issues and COVID-19 mitigations facing each of our sports and sport-activities,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “Circumstances change rapidly during the pandemic but we hope to have a clearer picture for how we can proceed with our winter championships when the Board next meets in February.”
Included in the staff’s report on basketball, was a preliminary discussion on ticketing to the 2021 Boys’ and Girls’ […]
01/19/21 – Dates Announced for Boys’ and Girls’ Sweet Sixteen®
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 19, 2021
The dates for the 2021 Boys’ and Girls’ Sweet Sixteen® State Basketball Tournaments have been set, with the boys’ tournament taking place March 31 through April 3, followed by the Mingua Beef Jerky Girls’ Sweet 16® on April 7-10. Each tournament will be played over four days at Rupp Arena, with the semifinals and championship played on the final day, as a one-year accommodation due to the events being scheduled around Easter Sunday. The four-day format was standard for the state basketball tournament for several years prior to the 2013 Boys’ Sweet 16® when a statewide legislatively-initiated panel recommended separating the prior semifinal/championship Saturday schedule into two days.
At this time, attendance for both tournaments will be restricted to 15% of capacity within the areas of the arena in-use. Details will be announced in February regarding the ticketing process, but all-session tickets will be limited for 2021 in order […]
01/15/21- Early Season Basketball Reminders- Masks, Seeding, Attendance, Media
This is being sent to all KHSAA member school Principals and Athletic Directors, as well as the Head Coaches of record and the licensed officials.
After our first couple of weeks, it appears a couple of reminders are in order related to the basketball season during the pandemic. We have been blessed by an opportunity to play when so many other states do NOT have that opportunity. But that privilege comes with responsibilities to help ensure public safety and the continued opportunity.
FACE COVERINGS
It is REQUIRED not recommended that all bench personnel wear masks/face coverings. Local policy cannot override this requirement. We all sincerely hope for relief from some of the extra requirements, but such will likely not come this season.
- For non-uniformed personnel (coaches, managers, trainers, non-dressed players), it is unsportsmanlike conduct to not wear the face-covering during the contest. Period. It is a technical foul (direct if it is the […]
01/14/21 – UK Healthcare Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Seeks Nominations for Kentucky Comeback Athlete of the Year Award
For the fifth year, UK Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, through its partnership with the KHSAA, seeks nominations for the Kentucky Comeback Athlete of the Year, meeting the following criteria:
- The nominee must have overcome illness or injury that affected their ability to participate in KHSAA sanctioned sports.
- The nominee must have returned to their sport(s) and demonstrated excellence and achievement beyond expectations.
- The nominee must consistently demonstrate good sportsmanship and ethical behavior on and off the playing field.
- The nominee must be in verified good academic standing with their school.
- The nominee must have participated and been a member of an athletic team during the 2019-2020 academic year.
- Nominations shall be submitted by March 1, 2021, to the KHSAA through the link at http://khsaa.org/ge36-uk-healthcare-comeback-athlete-of-the-year/.
Nominees will be automatically forwarded to UK HealthCare and the Sports Medicine Staff for review and selection.
- The selection committee, consisting of athletic trainers from each region […]
01/07/21 – KHSAA Adds FIFA and Madden as Newest Sanctioned Esports Offerings
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 7, 2021
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association today announced, in partnership with PlayVS, an expansion of its recognized varsity title offerings to include FIFA 21 and Madden NFL 21 for the upcoming Spring 2021 esports season. These latest additions bring the number of sanctioned games to five, joining the KHSAA’s previous offerings of League of Legends, Rocket League and SMITE. Amid continued COVID-19 concerns, and with traditional sports reworking their infrastructure, the value of esports is evident now more than ever as it provides high school students a safe extracurricular environment in which to compete.
Two of the most popular sports titles in the world, FIFA and Madden feature real professional football and soccer players on their actual professional teams. EA’s long-running sport simulation franchises represent all of the excitement gamers know and puts them in the center of the action.
“We are excited to expand our esports offerings to […]
01/06/21 – First Field Hockey Officials Course Introduced by NFHS Learning Center
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — In an expansion of its officiating courses, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) recently introduced the fast-paced sport of field hockey to the online NFHS Learning Center with its “Officiating Field Hockey” course.
Played on a field that is 60 yards wide by 100 yards long, and featuring only two umpires, field hockey is accompanied by unique rules that offer many challenges to a two-man crew. The free online “Officiating Field Hockey” course, which serves as a companion to the NFHS Field Hockey Rules Book and other supporting materials, provides a detailed look at the sport with video assistance.
“The ‘Officiating Field Hockey’ course has been developed for all officials – from first-year umpires to those with more than a decade of experience,” said Julie Cochran, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the NFHS Field Hockey Rules Committee. “The course was designed to help umpires understated the rules, […]
COVID-19 State and National Data and References
COVID-19 Kentucky Public Health Data and References COVID-19 State and National References12/18/20 – NFHS Center for Officials Services Continues to Expand Outreach, Services to Nation’s Contest Officials
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) continues to expand its outreach and services to contest officials nationwide through development of the NFHS Center for Officials Services (COS).
The NFHS COS, with its technology platform created by DragonFly Athletics of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, officially kicked off at the start of the 2020-21 school year and is already servicing nine NFHS member state high school associations (Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina and Wyoming), as well as sport-specific officials in three other states (California, Maine and Pennsylvania).
With the goal of building platforms for every state association, the COS offers a variety of services for officials on both the web and mobile app, including registration, exams, assignments, communication and scheduling tools, and payments.
Most recently, the COS has created an “NFHS Officials Hub” area for members that offers easy access to NFHS sport-specific rules information. With 23 different sports […]
12/17/20 – New NFHS Learning Center Course – “The Student Experience” – Relays Participation Benefits to Students
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has announced “The Student Experience” – a free student-centered course focused on the long-term benefits of education-based activities participation – as a new addition to the NFHS Learning Center.
“The last few years, we have had a lot of success delivering coursework and resources directly to students through the NFHS Learning Center to help them get the most out of their interscholastic experience,” said Dan Schuster, NFHS director of educational services. “By taking ‘The Student Experience,’ we want them to understand why participating in high school activities programs is so important to their future.”
In the past year, the NFHS Learning Center has released several resources within “The Parent Seat,” a collection of courses and videos that promote the true purpose of education-based athletics and performing arts to parents of participants. “The Student Experience” is the first course offering that conveys a […]
12/15/20 – Visual, Technical Revisions Offer Improved User Experience to NFHS Learning Center’s ‘Sudden Cardiac Arrest’ Course
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Revisions recently introduced to “Sudden Cardiac Arrest” aligns one of the NFHS Learning Center’s most significant courses with recent updates to its other offerings.
Currently available to take free of charge, the revised “Sudden Cardiac Arrest” course has been reviewed by both NFHS course partner, Simon’s Heart, and by the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC). As part of the revisions, the course received both branding and technology updates that had already been implemented to other NFHS Learning Center coursework.
“We are pleased to continue our successful partnership with Simon’s Heart to bring revised Sudden Cardiac Arrest content to the interscholastic community,” said Dan Schuster, NFHS director of educational services. “The course revisions centered around upgrading the look and feel of the course, as well as technology upgrades to improve the user experience.”
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is the number one cause of death in the United States for student-athletes during […]
12/15/20 – 2020 UK Orthopaedics State Football Finals Head to Kroger Field
For Immediate Release: December 15, 2020
The 2020 UK Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine State Football Finals begin Friday morning at 11 a.m. with the first of the weekend’s six championship games as Kentucky Country Day (10-1) takes on Paintsville (9-2) in the 1A title bout at Kroger Field. Live webcasts of all six games will be available at KHSAA.tv for subscribers to the NFHS Network, with a free audio broadcast available at KHSAA.net.
Tickets for the 2020 UK Orthopaedics State Football Finals are available online and must be purchased in advance, as there is no opportunity for walkup sales at this year’s event due to COVID-19 restrictions. Links to purchase tickets for each championship game, along with a summary of the policies and procedures for the state finals can be found at https://khsaa.org/uk-orthopaedics-state-football-finals-gameday-information/.
As a reminder to those in attendance, face coverings, over the nose and mouth, are required for all […]
12/10/20- Board of Control Confirms Decision to Start Winter Sports Practice December 14
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 10, 2020
The Board of Control conducted a special meeting on Thursday morning, upholding its earlier decision by a 12-5 vote to begin practice for winter sports on Dec. 14th and regular-season competition on Jan. 4th. Prior to confirming the start of the winter sports season, the Board voted 12-5 to push back the dates for the boys’ and girls’ Sweet 16® to March 29-April 8 after narrowly defeating other alternative dates, with the event schedule and format to be finalized at a later date in consultation with Rupp Arena.
“These are extremely complex issues. Our Board has spent an extraordinary amount of time examining every aspect surrounding the resumption of sports, particularly those that are indoors and have extreme concerns from public health officials,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “At the same time, there is significant data being shared about the need for students to be engaged with one another […]
12/2/20- Reminder about Great Offer from Partner Midway University
Exclusive KHSAA Tuition Discount
As a member of the KHSAA network of coaches and administrators, Midway University is proud to offer a 15% tuition reduction of all online undergraduate programs and graduate programs* to all employees, coaches, athletic directors, and officials and their dependents.
Midway University is one of the first in Kentucky to offer online programs to make achieving a bachelors or master’s degree possible for working adults. And since Midway University has held its tuition rates, and even lowered them for some programs, they are one of the most affordable choices. With the KHSAA extra 15% discount, that makes an incredible value.
To find out more, click the link at https://bit.ly/3mwvcpC.
Or to get started, email admissions@midway.edu, schedule a virtual admissions meeting or apply online.
12/01/20 – Schedule Set For State Football Finals
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 1, 2020
Following the Board of Control meeting on November 18th, the Association has worked to finalize the order of games for the 2020 UK Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine State Football Finals. The games will be played Friday, December 18th and Saturday, December 19th at Kroger Field with three games on each day.
The order of games and times for this year’s finals will be:
Friday, December 18th
- 11 a.m. – 1A Championship
- 3 p.m. – 2A Championship
- 7 p.m. – 4A Championship
Saturday, December 19th
- 11 a.m. – 3A Championship
- 3 p.m. – 5A Championship
- 7 p.m. – 6A Championship
As approved by the Board of Control during its November 18th meeting, the following provision will also be in place once the playoffs reach the Fourth Round:
- If one team from a game withdraws […]
11/23/20 – NFHS Officials Part 2 Exam Now Online for BK, SW, WR
We hope our officials continue to be safe and healthy as we look forward to a return to winter sports.
Please note that the NFHS Part 2 exams for licensed officials in the sports of Basketball, Swimming, and Wrestling are now available online. The Part 2 exams will be open until Monday, December 7 at 11:59 p.m. (ET).
The tests will automatically close on December 7 at 11:59 p.m. (ET). Login at https://officials.khsaa.org/authorize/ to take the test. A minimum score of 80 on the exam is required to be considered for assignment to officiate postseason play. The exam is also used for advancements in levels of classification.
First-year officials are not required to take the exam, however, if any first-year official has completed licensing requirements, the test may be taken.
Any official determined to have been involved in the improper administration of the exam, including taking it for another official or having it […]
11/20/20- Winter Indoor Sports Delayed, Information for Member Schools
With the Governor’s School Closing Order of this past Wednesday (details of which can be seen here) along with the Board of Control decision to delay the start of the indoor winter sports seasons to January 4 (details of which can be seen here), changes are going to need to be made over the next few weeks. The text of the orders is contained at the following links- https://bit.ly/36QG23f and https://bit.ly/3nz1ArU. As our office did not know the details of the final order until it was announced late Wednesday, we spent Thursday reconciling the details of the Board’s necessary action on the start of winter sports competition with the recent orders in order to best provide guidance to our membership. This conversation is ongoing with our office, the Governor and Lt. Governor’s office and the Kentucky Department of Education to ensure consistent messaging as well as our nearly daily consultation with […]
11/19/20- Football Playoff Reminders
This additional reminder is sent to all schools, including those eliminated from the postseason, in the event that these schools choose to play additional contests as permitted.
Here are a couple of reminders and emphasis points. In reverse order:
- The Governor’s ordered school shutdown (which was directed at Indoor winter sports) did not make changes to the playoffs and our desire to finish the current season. But we all should be aware that there are a lot of “eyes” on how we execute the playoffs and compliance with public health standards.
- For that and a myriad of other reasons, a playing rules interpretation is being issued again regarding the public health guidance.
- As of yesterday, failure by adults and non-uniformed individuals in the team areas in all KHSAA sports to adhere to masks/face covering guidance shall be considered an unsportsmanlike act.
- There remains an allowance for players currently in the contest as well as the contest […]
11/19/20 – Board of Control Pushes Back Start of Winter Sports Season to January 4
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 19, 2020
The Board of Control conducted its third regularly-scheduled meeting of the 2020-21 academic year on Wednesday and elected to postpone the start of the winter sports season to January 4th by unanimous vote. In congruence with the Governor’s order issued later the same day, official practice for all indoor interscholastic winter sports shall cease on Friday, November 20 at 5 p.m. and is planned to resume on Monday, December 14. This cessation will apply to all indoor interscholastic sports at all school levels, including but not limited to basketball, bowling, competitive cheer, dance, indoor track and field, swimming, and wrestling.
Details regarding any allowances for indoor interscholastic sports, which will be restricted prior to December 14, will be distributed to the membership prior to the Governor’s ordered shutdown of school-related in-person activity on Friday, November 20. The season calendar for each winter sport, as well as current virus data […]
11/18/20 – NFHS Learning Center Debuts New Video for Electronic Whistle Use in Volleyball
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — As part of its continued effort to educate officials on new procedures and protocol in officiating, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has debuted a new instructional video on the online NFHS Learning Center – “Official Volleyball Signals Using an Electronic Whistle.”
The “Official Volleyball Signals Using an Electronic Whistle” video provides officials with tips and techniques to assist in creating seamless signal sequences when using an electronic whistle. Supporting information in the video includes examples of various signals conducted by the first and second referees in applying proper mechanics.
Last spring, as COVID-19 information became more prevalent, the NFHS Volleyball Rules Committee promptly responded to help with health and safety concerns in the sport. The committee’s response resulted in the development of rules considerations related to social distancing and limiting contact to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“In recent months, volleyball officials quickly purchased electronic whistles to […]
11/15/20- Exclusive KHSAA Tuition Discount
As a member of the KHSAA network of coaches and administrators, Midway University is proud to offer a 15% tuition reduction of all online undergraduate programs and graduate programs* to all employees, coaches, athletic directors, and officials and their dependents.
Midway University is one of the first in Kentucky to offer online programs to make achieving a bachelors or master’s degree possible for working adults. And since Midway University has held its tuition rates, and even lowered them for some programs, they are one of the most affordable choices. With the KHSAA extra 15% discount, that makes an incredible value.
To find out more, click the link at https://bit.ly/3mwvcpC.
Or to get started, email admissions@midway.edu, schedule a virtual admissions meeting or apply online.
11/11/20 – Esports Online Rules Clinic For Coaches Now Available
The esports online rules clinic is now available at khsaa.org and required of all member school head and assistant coaches (varsity, junior varsity and freshmen), regardless of whether or not the coach receives pay. With the esports rules clinic being offered for the first time this year, the clinic will be available for free during the fall season but is a mandatory requirement of all coaches and should be completed before the fall postseason begins on December 11.
A revised clinic will be offered for the spring season which will also be required but will have the standard fee, late and super-late periods for completion.
For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, go to https://schools.khsaa.org/ and — under the section entitled Rules Clinics — click on the link that says “View Online Rules Clinics“.
COACHES
- November 10 to December 11 (Coaches) – […]
11/07/20 – Start of Football Playoffs Delayed One Week
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 7, 2020
The KHSAA notified member schools this morning that the start of the football playoffs will be delayed one week in an effort to provide schools and school systems time to review their situations and work with their health departments to determine the best course of action. The first round of the playoffs will now take place the weekend of Nov. 19-21 with no additional planned changes in the playoff structure at this point in time.
In the meantime, schools and school systems should review site strategies, seating capacities, and all other facets of the likely contest(s) during this interim period and certainly remind students that what they do outside of practice and the game field can have a tremendous impact on themselves and those around them. It is highly advised that all levels of school administration be in on hosting decisions and use this interim time to play out various […]
11/05/20 – KHSAA Coach of the Year Honorees Announced for 2019-20 Season
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 5, 2020
As part of its annual awards program, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Coaches Association recognizes Coach of the Year honorees from each state. Those named Coach of the Year at the state level then advance for consideration for Sectional Coach of the Year honors. Winners are chosen through a combination of their coaching accomplishments as well as their contributions outside of competition to help grow their respective sport.
The NFHS, which has been recognizing coaches through an awards program since 1982, honors coaches in the top 10 girls sports and top 10 boys sports (by participation numbers), and in two “other” sports – one for boys and one for girls – that are not included in the top 10 listings. The NFHS also recognizes a spirit coach as a separate award category. Winners of NFHS awards must be active coaches during the year for which […]
11/04/20 – State Volleyball Tournament Resumes Friday at George Rogers Clark HS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 4, 2020
The KHSAA State Volleyball Championship will debut in a new venue this weekend (Nov. 6-7) as George Rogers Clark High School hosts the remaining rounds of the tournament starting Friday morning. GRC’s Cardinal Arena will become just the ninth home of the state volleyball tournament, which spent the last eight years (2012-19) at Valley High School in Louisville.
The quarterfinal round gets underway Friday at 9 a.m. when Russell takes on West Jessamine. Assumption and Mercy will square off at 12:30 p.m., followed by Henry Clay versus Greenwood at 4 p.m., and Notre Dame against McCracken County in the final match of the night at 7:30 p.m. The semifinals will be played Saturday morning at 9 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., followed by the championship match that evening at 7:30 p.m.
As with the KHSAA’s other fall championships, the volleyball state tournament will operate under a severely limited seating capacity […]
COVID-19 Kentucky Public Health Data and References
COVID-19 Kentucky Public Health Data and References11/2/20 – Swimming Rules Clinic for Coaches and Officials Now Online
Now that the Healthy at Sports for Swimming has been published, the mandatory Online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport of Swimming is now available. The clinic is required of all officials as well as all coaches, varsity, junior varsity, and freshman, and whether or not the coach receives pay.
For member schools, the clinics are located on the School Log-in Page. To access the clinic, go to https://schools.khsaa.org/ and — under the section entitled Rules Clinics — click on the link that says “View Online Rules Clinics“.
For officials, login to the officials’ subdomain at https://officials.khsaa.org/
OFFICIALS
November 2 to December 28 (Officials) – the Swimming & Diving Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period.
December 29 to January 17 (Officials) – the Swimming & Diving Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($30) during this period.
More
Current Year Hall of Fame Information
Scores Powered by Riherds.com
Visit Our Official KHSAA Sponsors
