AAA-Non-Sports Blogs
08/23/23- Review Complete for End of Somerset-Perry County Central Football Contest
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 23, 2023
A statement from the Commissioner’s Office:
This information issues football playing rules interpretations and approved administrative remedies proposed by the local assigning secretary involving a crew of seven football officials following a misapplication of the playing rules in the first regular season contest last week between Perry County Central and Somerset on August 18. This review over the last couple of days and action by the local assigning secretary will result in an adjustment to the schedule for at least one future contest and future playoff assignments for the local association involved.
The review of the Somerset official team video is clear and indisputable as to the actions on the final play of the contest.
- Somerset attempted a field goal with the ball snapped at approximately the five-yard line, with the score 22-21 in favor of Perry County Central.
- On the play, Perry Central blocked the attempt which […]
08/18/23 – 2023 Fall Esports Enrollment Information
Good afternoon, everyone. I hope your school year is getting off to a great start!
Many of you have already done so, but member schools interested in participating in the 2023 Fall Esports season are encouraged to sign up and begin registering for the upcoming season. The registration deadline for the fall season is Friday, September 22.
Titles offered for the fall include:
- Hearthstone
- League of Legends
- Madden 24 (PS4 version – which can be played on the PS5)*
- Mario Kart™ 8 Deluxe
- NBA 2K24 (Release date 9/8/23. PS4 version – which can be played on the PS5)*
- Rocket League
- Splatoon™ 3
- Super Smash Bros.™ Ultimate
Join us next Tuesday, August 22, 2023, from 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM ET, where our esports partner and provider, PlayVS, will be conducting an Intro to Esports Webinar to discuss the benefits of esports, […]
08/18/23- Offer EXTENDED for AED Pricing from CPR of Indiana
ORIGINALLY POSTED JUNE 8, 2023
OFFER EXTENDED THROUGH DECEMBER 1, 2023
A few years ago, CPR Institute of Indiana partnered with the NFHS and subsequently with the KHSAA to offer a huge discount on AED purchases to our schools. After months of working with that group throughout the discussions of HB331, they are again offering a special price specifically on the Phillips units that were so popular in our state. A copy of that information is attached by keeping in mind the offer is NOW GOOD THROUGH DECEMBER 1, 2023.
As many of you know, AED preparedness and training was a main point in HB331 that passed the General Assembly and was signed into law to go into effect on June 29. While AEDs being required at all athletic events and activities were only strongly recommended by the passage of the bill, and certainly remain strongly recommended by the Association, this would be an optimal […]
08/17/23 – Additional Reminder for Schools – Bylaw 9 Basketball Organized Play Prior to Practice
We have had several inquiries about multiple events in the fall for boys’ and girls’ basketball players who have both been enrolled in grade nine and subsequently represented the school at any level, therefore being subject to Bylaw 9.
A student is NOT subject to Bylaw 9 and its restrictions if they have not been enrolled in grade nine and subsequently played in a contest representing the school OR their school year has not begun.
Students who are subject to Bylaw 9 and for whom the academic year has begun are prohibited from attending events outside of the NCAA collegiate live periods when coaches can attend per Bylaw 9.
For 2023-24, the dates when our students subject to Bylaw 9 can attend recruiting events for males at September 7 to October 14.
For 2023-24, the dates when our students subject to Bylaw 9 can attend recruiting events for females from September 7 to October […]
08/15/23- Roster/Schedule/Score/Photo, Etc. Reminder for Fall Sports
With fall sports back in full swing, this is a reminder to all coaches and athletic administrators concerning your varsity team schedules, scores, statistics and team photos in the team sports of Field Hockey, Football, Soccer and Volleyball, as well as your rosters (in all sports at all levels).
ROSTERS:
- Students may not participate in interscholastic competitions (including scrimmages and contests) without a valid roster online. The KHSAA system for roster and schedule entry is the only system that meets KHSAA rules and requirements in all sports.
- Athletic Directors (and coaches if your AD has assigned you those rights):
- Please enter your full roster (including freshman, junior varsity and varsity) in the KHSAA School Subdomain. Rosters are required to be submitted to the KHSAA (no other third-party roster system is accepted) prior to any scrimmage or contest.
- To enter your rosters (if you have those rights assigned by your school), log into the […]
08/14/23 – Competitive Cheer Declaration Form Now Open
The declaration form (CC101) for the sport-activity of Competitive Cheer is now open. Each member school shall only submit one form and you must be signed into the KHSAA School Subdomain to submit.
The deadline to complete this form is Friday, September 29. This is for KHSAA Regional and State Competitions, so please discuss what division(s) your school will be entering as there will be no adjustments to divisions once the entries are posted. Each member school Athletic Director or Head Coach shall only submit one form and must be signed into the KHSAA School subdomain (https://schools.khsaa.org/) to declare. You can find CC101 on the school subdomain under the dropdown menu “Forms and Reports” and under “Cheerleading Forms”.
SQUAD SIZES/DIVISIONS
- All-Girls Small – minimum of 5, maximum of 15
- All-Girls Medium – minimum of 16, maximum of 19
- All-Girls Large – minimum of 20, maximum of 23
- All-Girls Super-Large – minimum […]
08/14/23 – Dance Declaration Form Now Open
The declaration form (DA101) for the sport-activity of Dance is now open. Each member school shall only submit one form and you must be signed into the KHSAA School Subdomain to submit.
The deadline to complete this form is Friday, September 29 This is for KHSAA Regional and State Competitions, so please discuss what division(s) your school will be entering as there will be no adjustments to divisions once the entries are posted. Each member school Athletic Director or Head Coach shall only submit one form per school and must be signed into the KHSAA School subdomain (https://schools.khsaa.org/) to declare. You can find DA101 on the school subdomain under the dropdown menu “Forms and Reports” and under “Dance Forms”.
DIVISIONS
- Jazz (minimum of 5, maximum of 30)
- Hip Hop (minimum of 5, maximum of 30)
- Pom (minimum of 5, maximum of 30)
- Game Day (minimum of 5, maximum of 30)
- **This year, the […]
08/11/23 – KHSAA HYPE Student Leadership Conferences Registration Now Open
For the 23rd year, the KHSAA will host its HYPE Student Leadership Conference. Mark your calendars to plan to attend one of the two events scheduled for September 7 or September 8 as both will be held at the Central Bank Center in Lexington
WHAT IS HYPE?
HYPE is a one-day student leadership conference where students will enjoy educational interaction with each other to discuss issues and garner information to take back and share/implement with their teams and student body. The event is staged and presented by the KHSAA Student-Athlete Group.
DATES/LOCATIONS
- Thursday, September 7 – Central Bank Center (430 W. Vine St. Lexington, next to Rupp Arena).
- Friday, September 8 – Central Bank Center (430 W. Vine St. Lexington, next to Rupp Arena).
COST
There is no charge to attend. Schools are responsible for transportation and meals.
REGISTER
Register here. The registration deadline is Friday, September 1. A […]
08/11/23- Reminders about Approved Amendments to Bylaw 9 for 2023-24 (Basketball Organized Play Prior to Practice)
At the September 22, 2022, Annual Meeting of the membership, the delegates approved an amendment to Bylaw 9 of the KHSAA related to the play of basketball players in competition prior to the start of the season. This change is now in effect. The entire text as approved is listed at the end of this information.
The key provisions
- In summary, basketball players (who have been in grade 9 and subsequently represented a member school in a contest) can now attend true recruiting opportunities that meet very specific criteria, between the start of school and October 14.
- The opportunity to attend these activities ends October 14, and there is no outside organized play after the first date for allowable practice for those students who have been in grade 9 and subsequently represented a member school in a contest.
- During the period from the first day of school through October 14, the delegates defined what […]
08/07/23- Football Online Rules Clinic for Officials Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport of Football is now available. The clinic is required of all officials as well as all coaches (varsity, junior varsity, and freshman) whether or not the coach receives pay.
TO TAKE THE CLINIC, LOG IN TO YOUR ARBITERSPORTS.COM ACCOUNT NOT THE KHSAA WEBSITE
Go to https://khsaaofficials.org
Login using your arbiter name and password
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CLINICS
- As they are a condition of postseason eligibility, in the top black bar on the main page for https://khsaaofficials.org, select ELIGIBILITY
- Select that you want the 2023-24 Football Postseason Eligibility by clicking on 23-24 Postseason
- You will see a Blue Hyperlink that says Take Online Clinic
- Go through the clinic following the instructions including any require
- Please note it may be as much as 24-hours before your score is posted
DEADLINES FOR OFFICIALS
- Through September 21 (Officials) – the Football Clinic will be online only […]
8/7/23- Football Online Rules Clinic for Coaches Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport of Football is now available. We appreciate your patience while clarifications were compiled regarding one of the rule changes for 2023. The clinic is required of all coaches (varsity, junior varsity, and freshman) whether or not the coach receives pay.
FOR COACHES
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“.
- Until Sept. 28 (Coaches) – the Football Clinic will be online only and may be viewed at no charge during this period through the school subdomain.
- September 29 to October 13 (Coaches) – the Football Clinic will be online only and may be viewed for the makeup fee ($100) during this period.
- October 14 to Oct. 28 (Coaches) – the Football Clinic will be […]
08/03/23- Important Changes in the KHSAA Online School Subdomain for 2023-24
Good morning. On behalf of the entire staff, it is our hope that many of you as building and athletic administrators are back and ready to go after the dead period and getting into these first few days of practice. Our golf teams have already begun play and it is right around the corner in the rest of the fall sports.
SYSTEM OVERVIEW REMINDER- COACHING DATA
- Please continue to contact Rob Catron at the KHSAA (rcatron@khsaa.org) or by phone, 859-299-5472 ext 249 and he can assist with your technology needs using our system.
- It is probably worth reminding everyone that we have provided a robust system to track things for your coaches, and in many cases, the data in that system is the only authenticated way to track requirements.
- What you may not realize is how frequently we are asked for specific information about coaches, be it specific or en masse, and we […]
07/31/23 – Field Hockey Online Rules Clinic Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport of Field Hockey is now available through the KHSAA School Log-in page. The clinic is required of all officials and all coaches (varsity, junior varsity, and freshmen), regardless of whether or not the coach receives pay.
OFFICIALS
TO TAKE THE CLINIC, LOG IN TO YOUR ARBITERSPORTS.COM ACCOUNT-NOT THE KHSAA WEBSITE
Go to https://khsaaofficials.org
Login using your arbiter name and password
OFFICIALS INSTRUCTIONS FOR CLINICS
- As they are a condition of postseason eligibility, in the top black bar on the main page for https://khsaaofficials.org, select ELIGIBILITY
- Select that you want the 2023-24 Field Hockey Postseason Eligibility by clicking on 23-24 Postseason
- You will see a Blue Hyperlink that says Take Online Clinic
- Go through the clinic following the instructions including any require
- Please note it may be as much as 24-hours before your score is posted
DEADLINES FOR OFFICIALS
- July 31 […]
07/31/23 – Volleyball Online Rules Clinic for Coaches & Officials Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport of Volleyball is now available. The clinic is required of all officials as well as all coaches (varsity, junior varsity, and freshman) whether or not the coach receives pay.
OFFICIALS
TO TAKE THE CLINIC, LOG IN TO YOUR ARBITERSPORTS.COM ACCOUNT-NOT THE KHSAA WEBSITE
Go to https://khsaaofficials.org
Login using your arbiter name and password
OFFICIALS INSTRUCTIONS FOR CLINICS
- As they are a condition of postseason eligibility, in the top black bar on the main page for https://khsaaofficials.org, select ELIGIBILITY
- Select that you want the 2023-24 Volleyball Postseason Eligibility by clicking on 23-24 Postseason
- You will see a Blue Hyperlink that says Take Online Clinic
- Go through the clinic following the instructions including any require
- Please note it may be as much as 24-hours before your score is posted
DEADLINE FOR OFFICIALS
- July 31 to Sept. 7 (Officials) – the Volleyball Clinic will […]
07/31/23 – Soccer Online Rules Clinic for Coaches & Officials Now Available
The mandatory online KHSAA Rules Clinic for the sport of Soccer is now available today, July 31. The clinic is required of all officials as well as all coaches (varsity, junior varsity, and freshman) whether or not the coach receives pay.
TO TAKE THE CLINIC, LOG IN TO YOUR ARBITERSPORTS.COM ACCOUNT-NOT THE KHSAA WEBSITE
Go to https://khsaaofficials.org
Login using your arbiter name and password
OFFICIALS INSTRUCTIONS FOR CLINICS
- As they are a condition of postseason eligibility, in the top black bar on the main page for https://khsaaofficials.org, select ELIGIBILITY
- Select that you want the 2023-24 Soccer Postseason Eligibility by clicking on 23-24 Postseason
- You will see a Blue Hyperlink that says Take Online Clinic
Go through the clinic following the instructions including any require - Please note it may be as much as 24-hours before your score is posted
DEADLINE FOR OFFICIALS
- July 31 to August 31 (Officials) – the Soccer Clinic […]
07/27/23 – Cross Country State Championships to Return to Kentucky Horse Park in 2023-24
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JULY 27, 2023
After a three-year stint at the Bourbon County Cross Country Course in Paris, the KHSAA Cross Country State Championships will return to the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington starting in 2023-24.
“We would like to thank those who made the last three years a special experience at the Bourbon County Cross Country Course,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett. “In 2020, we were fortunate to help our cross country manager and several other individuals design a viable course for our state championships in a time of uncertainty around the global pandemic when our former course was not hosting events. What started as a brand-new course at the time has since evolved into a site that has consistently offered a great experience for our student-athletes. We look forward to the continued improvements the Bourbon County course has discussed for long-term growth, and we will undoubtedly revisit our site selection again in […]
07/24/23- Vacancy Announcement for Supervisor of Officials Licensing (Regular, Part-time)
The KHSAA, a private, non-profit entity designated by the Kentucky Board of Education to manage high school sports and sport-activities in the Commonwealth, has an immediate need to fill the part-time position of Supervisor of Officials Licensing. This opening is being created to facilitate enhanced work and focus on the need to recruit and train the next generation of officials to help ensure as the current licensees move on or retire, games are not canceled for the student-athletes.
This opening will be filled as soon as possible and is a regular, part-time position with a work week of less than 25 hours per week with duties solely focused on this area. This position does not offer regular remote work options due to the nature of the business and operational needs.
The KHSAA operates regular business hours at its offices in Lexington from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and this position will normally operate […]
07/24/23- Vacancy Announcement for Office Manager (Regular, Full-time)
The KHSAA, a private, non-profit entity designated by the Kentucky Board of Education to manage high school sports and sport-activities in the Commonwealth, has an immediate need to fill the position of Office Manager and Administrative Assistant to the Commissioner. This opening is created by the promotion of a current employee to another position within the organization and the prior search has been extended.
This opening will be filled as soon as possible and is a regular, full-time position with a work week of at least 37.5 hours, twelve months a year. This position does not offer regular remote work options due to the nature of the business and operational needs.
The KHSAA operates regular business hours at its offices in Lexington from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and this position will normally operate within that schedule. Current employees at the KHSAA operate on a memorandum of agreement with employment benefits administered by […]
07/24/23 – Corresponding Calendar Reminders, Updates, References
At its most recent meeting, the Board of Control approved recommended changes to the Spring Corresponding Dates Calendar impacting Tennis, Track and Field, Softball and Baseball. Please understand that this communication will be more lengthy than normal to attempt to address any questions and concerns.
These changes were a result of significant membership feedback addressing the various issues around spring sports and the potential issues faced by the nearly 290 member schools and the association. This represents the first phase of an overall calendar review the Board has begun to start this school year with the second phase being discussed at later meetings to include issues around the integration of three additional championships (boys’ and girls’ lacrosse and boys’ volleyball) into the 2024-25 calendar.
Spring has always presented challenges around end-of-year activities including testing, graduations, recognition ceremonies and so many other schedule conflicts. While at some point, choices will have to be made by some […]
07/18/23 – Board of Control Conducts First Meeting of 2023-24
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JULY 18, 2023
The KHSAA Board of Control conducted its first regularly scheduled meeting of the 2023-24 academic year on Tuesday in Newport, approving revisions to spring 2024 state championship dates, adopting “playing-up” rule changes for sports classified by size and adopting a new alignment for cross country and track & field.
Tuesday began with an orientation for new and returning Board members before launching into the full Board work session, followed by the full Board of Control meeting. The Board and staff welcomed new members Brandy Carver of Morehead and Mandi Hudson of Georgetown, while KHSAA Office Manager and Assistant to the Commissioner Kara Howard was formally announced as having accepted a newly created events services position on the KHSAA staff. After a favorable annual review by the Board, KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett’s contract was once again renewed for another year.
The 2023-24 baseball and softball state tournaments were approved to […]
07/11/23 – NFHS Announces Track & Field Rule Changes
New Examples of False Starts Adopted in High School Track and Field Rules
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
INDIANAPOLIS – In an effort to more clearly define false starts in high school track and field events, two new starting violations have been adopted for the 2024 season.
In Rule 5-7-4c, the previous language which required participants to remain motionless after assuming the set position prior to the starting device being fired, has been replaced with the following:
“If a runner leaves their mark with a hand or foot after the ‘set’ command but before the starting device is fired.”
In addition, a new violation in (d) calls for a violation “if a runner leaves their mark with a forward motion without the starting device being fired.”
Further, a new NOTE in Rule 5-7-4 states that “extraneous motion before the device is fired does not necessarily require a false start to be charged unless the criteria […]
07/11/2023- Fall Sports Tryout Reminders
Good afternoon to all member schools. This message is intended for all member schools based on multiple inquiries received in the last few days. Please share this with all members of your fall sports coaching staff, and the coaches of Competitive Cheer and Dance. This post is not intended to be comprehensive regarding all aspects of Bylaw 23, but intended to highlight areas around tryouts.
References for this information come from the Bylaws of the Association, online as part of the KHSAA Handbook. There is not (and has never been) a separate tryout period for fall sports prior to the start of practice. Recently, we have been made aware that several schools have posted “tryouts” for fall sports that are being held prior to the first date of practice. This is not permitted.
SPORTS OF CROSS COUNTRY, FIELD HOCKEY, GOLF, SOCCER AND VOLLEYBALL
- Required activity (including tryouts) can begin for Cross Country, Field Hockey, […]
07/10/23 – NFHS Announces Softball Playing Rule Changes
Changes in Pitching Delivery Requirements Approved in High School Softball
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
INDIANAPOLIS – Beginning next year, pitchers in high school softball will be allowed to disengage both feet from the playing surface if the pivot foot is not replanted prior to the delivery of the pitch. Previously, the pivot foot was required to remain in contact with the ground.
This modification to Rule 6-1-2c of the NFHS Softball Rules Book headlined a set of seven rules changes recommended by the NFHS Softball Rules Committee at the committee’s June 11-13 meeting at the Conrad Hotel in downtown Indianapolis. All changes were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
“When examining the survey responses, the NFHS Softball Rules Committee recognized that a majority of the membership were in favor of this change,” said Sandy Searcy, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the NFHS Softball Rules Committee. “An additional topic the committee […]
07/10/23 – NFHS Announces Baseball Playing Rule Changes
Electronic Communication Devices from Dugout to Catchers to be Permitted in High School Baseball
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
INDIANAPOLIS – The use of a one-way communication device between a coach in the dugout and a team’s catcher for the purposes of calling pitches will be permitted in high school baseball beginning in 2024.
This change to Rules 1-6-2 and 3-2-5 was one of five rules revisions approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Baseball Rules Committee at its June 4-6 meeting in Indianapolis. The recommendations were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
The new rules prohibit coaches from communicating with any other player besides the catcher on defense and with any player while batting. The coach must also be in the dugout when using the communication device.
“This change is consistent with the growth of the game and is indicative of a measured and responsible approach to enable […]
2023-24 KHSAA Board of Control Members
Darrell Billings
President, 2023-2024
Director, 2020-2024
Clay City
KDE Appointed Member
Private Enterprise, Tanner Chrysler Products Inc., Stanton
Larry Coldiron
President-Elect, 2023-2024
Director, 2021-2024
Raceland
Raceland-Worthington Independent Schools
Superintendent
Regions 15-16
Brandy Carver
Director, 2013-2027
Morehead
Rowan County Schools
Director of Professional Learning and District Wide Programs
Regions 9-16
Brian Courtney
Director, 2022-2026
Cox’s Creek
Principal
Bardstown Elementary School
Regions 1-8
James Demler
Director, 2020-2024
Covington
Athletic Director
St. Henry District
Regions 9-16
Joe Henderson
Director, 2021-2025
Mayfield
Superintendent
Mayfield Independent Schools
Regions 1-2
Claudette Herald
Director, 2022-2024
Dry Ridge
Assistant Superintendent
Grant County Public Schools
Regions 1-8
Greg Howard
Director, 2023-2027
Russellville
Athletic Director
Logan County High School
Regions 3-4
Mandi Hudson
Director, 2023-2027
Georgetown
KDE Appointed Member
Safety Engineer, TMMK
Damon Kelley
[…]
06/30/23- Assistant Commissioner Darren Bilberry Receives NFHS Citation for Section 2
KHSAA Assistant Commissioner Darren Bilberry was one of eight individuals recognized on June 30, 2023 at the NFHS Annual Summer Meeting in Seattle. The eight 2023 state association Citation recipients are Larry White, Section 1, retired executive director, New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA); Darren Bilberry, Section 2, assistant commissioner, Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA); Ernie Yarbrough, Section 3, assistant executive director/coordinator of officials, Georgia High School Association (GHSA); Todd Tharp, Section 4, assistant director, Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA); Jennifer Schwartz, Section 5, associate director, Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA); Mike Whaley, Section 6, associate director, Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA); Roger Blake, Section 7, retired executive director, California Interscholastic Federation (CIF); and Andy Barnes, Section 8, assistant executive director, Washington Interscholastic […]
06/30/23 – Officials Supervisor of the Year Announced
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JUNE 30, 2023
Each year, the Kentucky High School Athletic Association honors the top officials for the 10 sports in which it licenses officials, as well as a single supervisor of officials from among those sports. Finalists in each sport are selected through a combination of not only on-field performance but local association activity and leadership, training efforts and the mentoring of newer officials.
In addition to one official in each sport being named “Outstanding Official of the Year” for their sport, the KHSAA also recognizes the Larry G. Boucher Officials Supervisor of the Year in appreciation of their dedication and service to schools and student-athletes across the state. Winners are selected following consultation with local assigning secretaries, veteran officials’ observers, coaches throughout the state and additional staff review.
The Larry G. Boucher Officials Supervisor of the Year for the 2022-23 school year is Mark Shumate of Floyd Knobs, Indiana, for his […]
06/30/23 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Baseball
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JUNE 30, 2023
Each year, the Kentucky High School Athletic Association honors the top officials for the 10 sports in which it licenses officials. Finalists in each sport are selected through a combination of not only on-field performance but local association activity and leadership, training efforts and the mentoring of newer officials.
One official in each sport is named “Outstanding Official of the Year” for their sport in appreciation of their dedication and service to schools and student-athletes across the state. Winners are selected following consultation with local assigning secretaries, veteran officials’ observers, coaches throughout the state and additional staff review.
The Outstanding Official of the Year for the 2022-23 baseball season is Scot Allison of Carlisle. Each finalist will receive a commemorative watch and certificate courtesy of the Officials Division Trust Fund, with the Official of the Year receiving an additional recognition award.
With officiating numbers declining at the national level, […]
06/30/23 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Softball
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JUNE 30, 2023
Each year, the Kentucky High School Athletic Association honors the top officials for the 10 sports in which it licenses officials. Finalists in each sport are selected through a combination of not only on-field performance but local association activity and leadership, training efforts and the mentoring of newer officials.
One official in each sport is named “Outstanding Official of the Year” for their sport in appreciation of their dedication and service to schools and student-athletes across the state. Winners are selected following consultation with local assigning secretaries, veteran officials’ observers, coaches throughout the state and additional staff review.
The Outstanding Official of the Year for the 2022-23 softball season is Kevin Terry of Corbin. Each finalist will receive a commemorative watch and certificate courtesy of the Officials Division Trust Fund, with the Official of the Year receiving an additional recognition award.
With officiating numbers declining at the national level, […]
06/30/23 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Track & Field
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JUNE 30, 2023
Each year, the Kentucky High School Athletic Association honors the top officials for the 10 sports in which it licenses officials. Finalists in each sport are selected through a combination of not only on-field performance but local association activity and leadership, training efforts and the mentoring of newer officials.
One official in each sport is named “Outstanding Official of the Year” for their sport in appreciation of their dedication and service to schools and student-athletes across the state. Winners are selected following consultation with local assigning secretaries, veteran officials’ observers, coaches throughout the state and additional staff review.
The Outstanding Official of the Year for the 2022-23 track & field season is Chris Thomas of Paint Lick. Each finalist will receive a commemorative watch and certificate courtesy of the Officials Division Trust Fund, with the Official of the Year receiving an additional recognition award.
With officiating numbers declining at […]
06/08/23 – How to Watch Baseball, Softball State Tournaments on KHSAA.tv
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JUNE 8, 2023
The 2022-23 athletic season will officially come to a close this weekend as the semifinal and final rounds of the 2023 Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Baseball and Softball State Tournaments presented by UK HealthCare wrap up on the campus of the University of Kentucky in Lexington.
All six remaining games across both tournaments will be webcast live on KHSAA.tv to subscribers of the NFHS Network. Live audio from each webcast will be streamed for free on KHSAA.net.
A monthly pass to the NFHS Network costs $11.99 per month, billed immediately once per calendar month from the sign-up date, while an annual pass costs $79.99 per year. All passes include full access to live regular-season and postseason events, as well as immediate access to events when available On Demand, and can be canceled at any time. For more information on how to subscribe to the NFHS […]
06/06/23 – Johnson, Ferree Named 2022-23 Midway/KHSAA Student-Athletes of the Year
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JUNE 6, 2023
The 2022-23 Midway University/KHSAA Student-Athlete of the Year awards program culminated this week on the campus of Midway University, as Rafaella Johnson of Elizabethtown (Cross Country) and George Ferree of Trinity (Louisville) (Wrestling) were recognized as the overall Student-Athletes of the Year.
Beginning in May 2016, Midway has presented a Female Student-Athlete of the Year award at each KHSAA girls’ state championship event. The awards program was expanded in 2019-20 to include male student-athletes, with Midway honoring a deserving student-athlete in each of the 19 officially recognized KHSAA sports and sport-activities.
The awards are based on athletic and academic achievement, as well as community service and leadership, with Midway choosing one overall Male and Female Student-Athlete of the Year each academic year. School administrators, coaches and athletic directors nominate student-athletes online at khsaa.org, and the nominees are voted upon by a closed panel consisting of representatives from Midway.
05/31/23 – Parking Details for State Track & Field, State Softball
The KHSAA has received the final details for parking on the campus of the University of Kentucky at this year’s State Track & Field and State Softball Championships. Coaches and teams are reminded to allow extra time, especially in the Lexington area, for travel due to so many events in and around Lexington June 1-2-3.
State Track & Field Teams are reminded that the State Meet is conducted with a specific time schedule and events will not be delayed if a competitor does not check in on time. Teams can arrive early and remain in buses until the Team Gate opens or athletes/coaches can always arrive earlier than their event to check-in and head to Tent City.
State Softball Teams are reminded they can arrive earlier than their indicated warm-up time and UK Parking/KHSAA Staff will accommodate you on-site. Parking maps are available below!
UPDATED PARKING MAPS
05/31/23 – Track & Field, Baseball, Softball to Wrap Up 2022-23 Championship Season
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAY 31, 2023
The final state championship events of the 2022-23 school year are set to kick off in Lexington this week.
The 2023 Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Track & Field State Championships, 2023 Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Baseball State Tournament and 2023 Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Softball State Tournament, each presented by UK HealthCare, will run throughout Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
The Track & Field State Championships and Softball State Tournament will be played entirely on the University of Kentucky campus, while the Baseball State Tournament will begin at Counter Clocks Field before finishing at UK’s Kentucky Proud Park the following weekend.
The Track & Field State Championships will start with 1A competition on Thursday and 2A competition on Friday before concluding with its 3A championships on Saturday. Baseball will play its first round over Thursday and Friday and its quarterfinals on Saturday at Counter Clocks Field, concluding with the final two rounds next weekend. Softball will […]
05/30/23 – State Track & Field Lane Assignments, Starting Heights, Final Details!
The field is set for the 2023 Clark’s Pump-n-Shop State Track & Field Championships presented by UK HealthCare! The meets will be held June 1 – June 3 at the University of Kentucky Track & Field Complex. The KHSAA website has been updated to reflect lane assignments, competitor numbers, etc. Please be sure to check under the 2023 State/Region Meet Entries/Results tab at the very bottom of the track webpage (links also below). Additional important information for each respective class is posted.
Starting heights for High Jump and Pole Vault for each respective class have also been set for the State Meet. They are as follows:
Class 1A 2A 3A Girls High Jump 4’6″ 4’6″ 4’8″ Boys High Jump 5’8″ 5’8″ 5’10” Girls Pole Vault 6’6″ 7’6″ 8’6″ Boys Pole Vault 9’6″ 10’0″ 11’0″Lane Assignments
Class Link 1A https://khsaa.org/track/2023/class1alaneassignments.pdf 2A https://khsaa.org/track/2023/class2alaneassignments.pdf 3A https://khsaa.org/track/2023/class3alaneassignments.pdfThe following links have important information for teams, […]
05/29/23 – Tennis State Championships Start Tuesday
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAY 29, 2023
The 2023 KHSAA Tennis State Championships presented by UK HealthCare return to the Lexington area on Tuesday, with first serve scheduled for 8 a.m. ET and competition running throughout the morning, afternoon and evening.
The first and second rounds of the girls’ competition will take place at the Hilary J. Boone Tennis Complex on the campus of the University of Kentucky in Lexington, while the boys’ competition will take place solely at Top Seed Tennis Club in Nicholasville.
Following the first day of play, all remaining matches over the next two days will be played at Top Seed Tennis Club. Boys’ and girls’ singles semifinals will start Thursday at 8 a.m., followed by doubles semifinals at 10 a.m. Championship matches will be decided at 1 p.m.
Team champions will be determined through an accumulation of points throughout the tournaments, with each singles player and doubles team receiving one point […]
05/26/23- 2023 Advanced Athletic Administrators Workshop-August 29
This workshop will be held in Lexington at the Lexington Hilton Downtown and will offer a deep dive into current Constitution and Bylaws provisions, use of forms and operational notes. This meeting will be held on August 29, 2023. This meeting will count for six hours of the hours required for the Athletic Director’s continual improvement in Bylaw 25.
REGISTRATION
Registration is open and online at https://schools.khsaa.org/ge47-advanced-athletic-administrators-institute-form/. There is no charge for the registration.
MEETING FORMAT AND MATERIAL
The meeting will only be offered this year as an in-person option only.
Meeting material will be posted on the KHSAA website and all registered attendees will be provided any update.
GPS ADDRESS
The GPS address is 369 West Vine Street, Lexington, KY 40507. To get directions, CLICK THIS LINK
HOUSING
For those who may need housing (or who may stay for the regional meeting the next day at the same site with […]
05/26/23- 2023 Annual Meeting Set for September
This is intended for all KHSAA member school Superintendents, Principals, and Athletic Directors and the links can be forwarded as needed.
ANNUAL MEETING
The 2023 Annual Meeting of the membership of the KHSAA is to be held on September 14 at the Central Bank Center (FKA Lexington Center). Final agenda documents are being published as they become final in the coming months, but the meeting is expected to begin at approximately 8:30 a.m. ET. and conclude not later than 1:00 p.m. ET. Details and requirements for the Annual Meeting Delegate are summarized below. To submit the name of your delegate, go to https://schools.khsaa.org/ge38-annual-meeting-delegate-designation/
This meeting, which is not mandatory for membership, will not have a virtual option.
ANNUAL MEETING DELEGATE DESIGNATION
The Annual Meeting has continuous improvement/leadership training opportunities throughout the morning as members work to carve out the best plan of action for the future and then the meeting concludes as […]
05/26/23 – Class 3A State Track & Field Performance Listing and Roster by School Available
The performance list and the roster by school for all events, including unified/adapted for Class 3A are posted on the website at the links below.
Changes may occur as coaches and officials have an opportunity to double-check both the performance list and the roster by school for accuracy. An email will be sent once all changes are made and performance lists are finalized.
As a reminder to coaches, each region automatically qualifies the first and second-place finishers in each event (a total of 14 automatic qualifiers, if at least 2 entered in the event). The next 10 best performances (plus any unbreakable ties) in each event, per class, from the state-at-large shall qualify for the state meet. It is very possible to have a situation where the performances in a regional meet among the two automatic advancers are less than the performance of someone who did not finish first or second in his/her respective region, […]
05/24/23 – Class 2A State Track & Field Performance Listing and Roster by School Available
The performance list and the roster by school for all events, including unified/adapted for Class 2A are posted on the website at the links below.
Changes may occur as coaches and officials have an opportunity to double-check both the performance list and the roster by school for accuracy. An email will be sent once all changes are made and performance lists are finalized.
As a reminder to coaches, each region automatically qualifies the first and second-place finishers in each event (a total of 14 automatic qualifiers, if at least 2 entered in the event). The next 10 best performances (plus any unbreakable ties) in each event, per class, from the state-at-large shall qualify for the state meet. It is very possible to have a situation where the performances in a regional meet among the two automatic advancers are less than the performance of someone who did not finish first or second in his/her respective region, […]
05/24/23- 2023-2024 Regional Meetings for Athletic Administrators
The following is the schedule of meetings for this fall as we rotate into places it may have been a year or two since we have been able to host.
Aug 16, 2023, Mayfield High School, Mayfield
Aug 17, 2023, Hopkins County Central High School, Madisonville
Aug 21, 2023, Scott High School, Taylor Mill
Aug 22, 2023, North Laurel High School, London
Aug 23, 2023, Boyd County High School, Ashland
Aug 24, 2023, Valley High School, Valley Station
Aug 28, 2023, Mountain Arts Center, Prestonsburg
* Aug 30, 2023, Hilton Downtown, Lexington
Aug 31, 2023, Hart County High School, Munfordville
For the fall of 2023, the KHSAA will again conduct a series of regional meetings to help our athletic administrators meet the membership requirement of attending this type of meeting once per year as well as provide continuous improvement hours for administrators. With the rapid turnover in athletic administrators and changes initiated by the General […]
05/24/23 – Class 1A State Track & Field Performance Listing and Roster by School Available
The performance list and the roster by school for all events, including unified/adapted for Class 1A are posted on the website at the links below. Class 2A should be released later tonight and Class 3A tomorrow, after all Class 3A regions finish.
Changes may occur as coaches and officials have an opportunity to double-check both the performance list and the roster by school for accuracy. An email will be sent once all changes are made and performance lists are finalized.
As a reminder to coaches, each region automatically qualifies the first and second-place finishers in each event (a total of 14 automatic qualifiers, if at least 2 entered in the event). The next 10 best performances (plus any unbreakable ties) in each event, per class, from the state-at-large shall qualify for the state meet. It is very possible to have a situation where the performances in a regional meet among the two automatic advancers are […]
05/22/23- Guidance Related to 2023 SB145, with revisions to 2021 HB563 (KRS156.070)
Introduction
This summarizes interpretive guidance for the member schools of the KHSAA related to SB145, passed in the 2023 General Assembly Regular Session. Inquiries should be directed to Commissioner Julian Tackett (jtackett@khsas.org) or General Counsel Chad Collins (ccollins@khsaa.org). The provisions of Acts Chapter 93 2023 (SB145) go into effect on June 29, 2023 and will be further codified as KHSAA Bylaw 8. This information is archived at https://khsaa.org/05-22-23-guidance-related-to-2023-sb145-with-revisions-to-2021-hb563-krs156-070/, or https://khsaa.org/resources/2023%20SB145%20HB563%20Revision.pdf.
Background of Legislative Change
In its regular session in 2023, the Kentucky General Assembly passed amendments to Acts Chapter 93 2023 (SB145), which become law on June 29, 2023. This legislation amended the prior provisions known colloquially as HB563, Acts Chapter 167 2021 (HB563).
SB145, now codified into Kentucky Revised Statutes further refined restrictions on non-resident, out-of-district students and their participation in interscholastic athletics after changing schools.
The changes passed with this measure impacted only KRS 156.070 and […]
05/22/23- Update on Site for State Baseball First and Second Rounds
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAY 22, 2023
The first and second rounds of the 2023 Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Baseball State Tournament presented by UK HealthCare will now be played at the recently renovated home of the Lexington Counter Clocks on June 1, 2 and 3. Games will be played at 10 a.m. ET, 1:30 p.m., 5:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. each day.
“We began discussions in late February with the University of Kentucky, the staff of the Lexington Counter Clocks and representatives of VisitLex about alternative options in the event that UK was selected to host the NCAA First Round,” said KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett.
“We discussed several schedule alternatives that could have even included trying to blend the two events, but in light of the high school pitching restrictions, the other needs of our member schools and the needs of the University of Kentucky and its baseball program, to ensure they’re optimally prepared, it simply wasn’t […]
05/16/23- Revised GE04 and Optional PPE01 Released
GENERAL- After final clearance and review from the KHSAA / KMA Sports Medicine Committee last Thursday, the revised required GE04 and optional PPE01 have been published on the KHSAA website.
- There are notable changes on the forms this year, not only in content but in handling procedure.
- Physicals already administered may be honored, but a revised GE04 form should (recommended but not required) be provided to parents and students to ensure the proper separation of medical records as detailed below.
- The links to the forms are located on the KHSAA website at https://khsaa.org/general/resources/khsaa-forms/
- Keep in mind that the GE04 form is required to be used as the parental permission and authorization for medical treatment form. This three-page form contains the information form signed by the parent and student, as well as the consent to treat. The third page of this form is the required medical clearance, which by statute, […]
05/15/23 – NFHS Announces Basketball Playing Rule Changes
Free Throw Procedures and Foul Administration Amended in 2023-24 High School Basketball Rules Changes
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
INDIANAPOLIS – Beginning next year, high school basketball teams will shoot two free throws for common fouls when in the “bonus.” This change to Rule 4-8-1 eliminates the one-and-one scenario and sets new foul limits each quarter for awarding the bonus free throw.
Rules changes were approved by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Basketball Rules Committee at its annual meeting April 24-26 in Indianapolis. The recommendations were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
In addition to awarding two foul shots for all common fouls, teams will reach the bonus when their opponent commits five fouls in each quarter and team fouls will reset at the end of each quarter. Previously, teams were awarded the one-and-one bonus when their opponents committed seven fouls in a half and two foul shots when […]
2023-24 KHSAA Board of Control Meeting Dates
2023-2024 BOARD OF CONTROL MEETING SCHEDULE
Tuesday, July 18 and Wednesday July 19, 2023 (if necessary), Newport
Wednesday September 13, 2023, KHSAA
Wednesday November 15, 2023, KHSAA
Wednesday January 17, 2024, KHSAA
Tuesday February 20, 2024, KHSAA
Tuesday, May 7 and Wednesday, May 8, 2024, KHSAA
05/15/23- Reminder about Postseason Rosters, Triple Threat and Academic All-State Awards
POSTSEASON ROSTER- With the postseason championships underway, this is a reminder that all eligible participants should have been moved to the postseason roster.
- While the postseason roster has no impact on your Title IX report or Annual Participation List, it does serve as the eligibility listing for all sports.
- If you need assistance, please see the video at https://schools.khsaa.org/help-the-postseason-roster/ or contact Rob Catron, IT Director and School Subsystem liaison, rcatron@khsaa.org.
- With nearly all schools having submitted their Annual Participation List (only one school remains!), this reminder about creating your Triple Threat Award Certificates.
- We have more than 2100 eligible for this award based on the roster data, but thus far, only 880 have been recognized by the school.
- The routines can be found on the school login page, in the third group of options on the left “Maintain/View/Print Rosters”, and after clicking that, select “Maintain Overall Athletic […]
2023-24 KHSAA Board of Control Committees Assignments
President Darrell Billins, President-Elect Larry Coldiron
Executive Committee-Evaluation/Leadership/Audit/Finance Team
Billings, Darrell (President)
Coldiron, Larry (President-Elect)
Henderson, Joe
Herald, Claudette
Howard, Greg
McCallon, Randy
Passafiume, Angela
Thompson, Russell
Wilhoite, Matt (President-Elect)
Hall of Fame Selection Committee
BOARD- 2nd-year members (2026) and 4th-year members (2024)
STAFF
Cope, Butch (Permanent)
Tackett, Julian (Permanent)
Angolia, Joe
Bridenbaugh, Sarah
Collins, Chad
MEDIA (A minimum of 5 media representatives)
Hall-of Fame Screening Committee
BOARD-1st-year members (2027) and 3rd-year members (2025)
DESIGNATED EXECUTIVE STAFF MEMBERS
Cope, Butch (Permanent)
Tackett, Julian (Permanent)
Bilberry, Darren
Elder, Jenny
Link, Connor
MEDIA (A minimum of 5 media representatives)
Whistle Blower Committee (4th-year members)
Billings, Darrell
Demler, James *
Coldiron, Larry *
Herald, Claudette *
Thompson, Russell *
NFHS Summer Meeting (2nd-year members entering the third year, plus President, President-Elect, and any serving former President)
Billings, Darrell
Coldiron, Larry
Wilhoite, Matt
Courtney, Brian *
McCallon, Randy *
Passafiume, Angela
Phillips, Michael *
Zuberer, David *
[…]
05/10/23 – Board of Control Accepts Reports of Member Survey Results, State Legislation, Officials Licensing
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAY 10, 2023
The KHSAA Board of Control conducted its final regularly scheduled meeting of the 2022-23 academic year on Wednesday in Lexington, accepting reports of several member surveys and ballots regarding both new and existing championship sports and sport-activities, as well as reports of Kentucky state legislation and officials licensing.
After officially approving the adoption of girls’ wrestling for the 2023-24 academic year during last February’s Board meeting, on Wednesday the Board approved the return of the KHSAA Wrestling State Championships to Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington through 2024-25 to be held as a three-day event each year.
The Board approved the adoption of boys’ and girls’ tennis team state championships in the spring, along with the existing individually bracketed tennis tournament, beginning with the 2023-24 academic year. The Board also approved sponsoring a boys’ volleyball, boys’ lacrosse and girls’ lacrosse state championships beginning in 2024-25, following […]
05/10/23 – Baseball & Softball End of Season/Beginning of Postseason Updates
Staff managing Baseball and Softball have continued to receive inquiries regarding the ending of the regular season and the beginning of the postseason.
A variety of situations were shared with the KHSAA Board of Control at today’s meeting. After discussion and on behalf of the staff, the Commissioner proposed an interpretation allowing regular season games to be played up until the day before the district tournament begins in both sports. The Board unanimously concurred with that recommendation which will be the policy in all team sports going forward. This is in alignment with the end of the regular season in the individual sports that can play contests up until the day before the postseason begins.
For example:
1) The District Tournament is set to begin on Monday, teams could play on Sunday, the day before the postseason begins.
2) The District Tournament is set to begin on Saturday, teams could play on […]
05/09/23 – Catch the Bass Fishing State Championships This Weekend on Kentucky Lake
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAY 9, 2023
The 2023 KHSAA Bass Fishing State Championships presented by UK HealthCare will cast on Kentucky Lake on May 12-13 in Calvert City.
The two-day event will crown an inaugural girls’ state champion in addition to a boys’/coed state champion on the sport-activity’s 10-year anniversary.
Admission to the event is free to the public. Following each day’s competition, the weigh-in ceremonies will be streamed live on khsaa.tv for free.
2023 Bass Fishing State Championships
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage high school athletics in the Commonwealth. The Association is a voluntary nonprofit 501(c)3 organization made up of 284 member schools, both public and […]
05/04/23 – Spring Draw Show Tabbed for May 9 on NFHS Network
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAY 4, 2023
The pairings for the 2023 Clark’s Pump-N-Shop Baseball and Softball State Tournaments presented by UK HealthCare will be decided during the KHSAA’s annual Spring Championship Draw Show on Tuesday, May 9, at 1:30 p.m. ET from the KHSAA office in Lexington.
The Draw Show will be streamed live on the NFHS Network at no cost to viewers via khsaa.tv, determining which regions will be paired for first-round matchups.
Both tournaments are currently scheduled to begin Thursday, June 1, on the campus of the University of Kentucky in Lexington. Kentucky Proud Park will host three consecutive days of first-round and quarterfinal baseball action, while John Cropp Stadium will facilitate softball competition across the opening three-day span.
The semifinal rounds of each tournament will continue on Friday, June 9, followed by both championship games on Saturday, June 10.
The NFHS Network will produce a live webcast of all 30 games […]
05/02/23 – State Bass Fishing Region Results and State Registration
For all teams/boats qualifying for the 2023 KHSAA Bass Fishing State Championships, the registration link has been updated to allow teams to register. The registration deadline is Monday, May 8, 2023. Teams/boats can register by clicking on the State Championship Registration link below. From the Choose Type menu select Invitational, and then from the Choose Tournament menu select 2023 KHSAA State Finals, All Female Division, or 2023 KHSAA State Finals which is the Coed Division:
State Championship Registration
The results for the teams/boats qualifying for the KHSAA State Championships are posted below by region. We are asking coaches to please review the names of your anglers for misspellings and any other corrections that may be necessary. Please email these corrections directly to Darren Bilberry by 4:00 p.m. EST, Wednesday, May 3, 2023.
[…]05/02/23 – NFHS Announces Wrestling Rule Changes
Changes in High School Wrestling Rules Include Allowance of Six Matches in One Day of Competition
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
INDIANAPOLIS – High school wrestlers will be able to wrestle in six matches in any one day of competition beginning with the 2023-24 season. The six-match limit includes championship and consolation matches and excludes forfeits.
This change to Rule 1-4-3 was one of 12 revisions recommended by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Wrestling Rules Committee at its April 2-4 meeting in Indianapolis. All changes were subsequently approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
The increase from five to six matches for regular-season competition follows the change two years ago which permitted six matches in any one day of tournament competition. With experiments conducted last year by state associations with no reported injuries, the committee thought the increase to six for regular-season competition was a natural progression.
With risk minimization in […]
05/02/23 – Tennis Regional Instructions Available and Postseason Reminders
REGIONAL INSTRUCTIONS/POSTSEASON UPDATES
- Region Tournaments are scheduled for May 12-25.
- A list of host/region managers can be found through the links below:
- The region tournament instructions are available on the Tennis homepage at khsaa.org. All coaches and competing schools should take the time to read these items carefully, even veteran coaches, to ensure familiarity with all KHSAA rules and regulations regarding these events.
- Region Instructions (Tennis begins on page 26)
- All entries should be submitted to the regional managers using the TN103 form through the following links:
UNIVERSAL TENNIS RATING (UTR)
- UTR information shall be used to gather necessary initial information for seeding consideration.
- Seeding shall be based on the All-Factors Method, considering each […]
05/01/23 – KHSAA Student Advisory Group Selected for National Student Leadership Summit
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MAY 1, 2023
Sixteen student-athletes from across the Commonwealth of Kentucky have been named members of the 2023-24 KHSAA Student Advisory Group. The leaders will represent the KHSAA at the NFHS National Student Leadership Summit on July 29-31 in Indianapolis.
The group will also assist in the planning and execution of the KHSAA HYPE Student Leadership Conferences scheduled for Sept. 7-8 at the Central Bank Center in Lexington. Members of the Student Advisory are as follows:
- Tedi Henderson, Atherton
- Tyson Hergott, Beechwood
- Ryan Clines, Bishop Brossart
- Thomas Rudd, Bracken County
- Leo Tobbe, DuPont Manual
- Carter Moberly, Elizabethtown
- Sawyer Thompson, Pineville
- Jacob Eads, Scott County
- Danica Gorlewski, Beechwood
- Lydia Van Metre, Henry Clay
- Catherine Shelton, Marshall County
- Nadine Johnson, Pineville
- Kaitlyn Slone, Rowan County
- Madeline Spencer, Scott
- Bradyn Barnett, St. Mary
- Reagan Anderson, Pendleton County
The group attending the NSLS will split into groups and work through topical discussions on relevant […]
04/29/2023 – Bass Fishing State Instructions Available
State Championship Instructions and other pertinent information for the 2023 KHSAA State Bass Fishing Tournament are now posted on the KHSAA website. You can view the State Championship Time Schedule, instructions, and other information by clicking on the links below:
2023 State Bass Fishing Time Schedule
Instructions for Participants and Fans
For teams that qualify for the State Championship registration will be open from Tuesday, May 2nd until Monday, May 8th, at 5:00 p.m. The KHSAA will send out the registration link once it has been updated.
Qualifying teams can make reservations at the host hotel Kentucky Dam Village by Wednesday, May 3rd. Hotel contact information is included in the State Instructions.
Please contact Assistant Commissioner Darren Bilberry (dbilberry@khsaa.org) should you have any questions.
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated […]
04/27/23 – Track & Field Regional Instructions Available and Postseason Reminders
REGIONAL INSTRUCTIONS/POSTSEASON UPDATES
- Region Meets: May 12 – May 25
- All 21 region dates and sites are set: REGIONAL MANAGERS
- The region meet instructions are available for review. Coaches should review prior to entering the regional meet. REGION INSTRUCTIONS (Track & Field begins on page 32).
- The Clark’s Pump-n-Shop State Track & Field Championships will return to the University of Kentucky on June 1-3, 2023.
- Class 1A will compete on June 1, followed by Class 2A on June 2, and Class 3A on June 3, a tentative time schedule has been posted: TIME SCHEDULE
UNIFIED
- The KHSAA and Special Olympics Kentucky (SOKY) will once again offer exhibition unified events in the postseason. This allows high school students with and without intellectual disabilities the opportunity to represent their high school as partners in an event.
- The events that will be offered include: 2x50m Dash Relay, 2x200m Dash Relay, 4x100m Relay, […]
Swimming State Schedule Format Survey Questionnaire Distributed to Athletic Directors and Principals
Throughout this year and at meetings held throughout the state, staff has reviewed the logistical issues surrounding the State Swim Meet. Simply put, despite years of adjusting time schedules, there is not a facility in the Commonwealth that can handle the capacity of the friends, families and supporters of our current state meet. The Commissioner and staff have discussed at length with various constituent groups including our Board of Control, the membership, veteran meet managers and even other states, to see formats that might help alleviate the issues. Even a new facility set to come online in a couple of years at one of our colleges and universities will not be built with the capacity to totally eliminate the problem, and only time will tell if the projected size of that facility remains the same following construction. This is not a problem unique to our state. It has also been made worse by significant capacity […]
Important Follow-up Survey – Triennial Survey – Boys/Coed Volleyball, Lacrosse, Team Tennis
Throughout this year, the members of the Board of Control and staff have discussed the Triennial Survey that was completed by the membership at the end of last school year as we have charted the course for the next few years. We have reviewed those findings in a variety of ways and discussed it with constituent groups at regional meetings, the Annual Meeting, and small group meetings throughout the school year. Those results are listed in compiled form on the website at https://khsaa.org/common_documents/Triennial%20Survey%20Results%2020212022/TotalsForTriennialTotalsOnly.pdf and in detail with school-by-school responses at https://khsaa.org/common_documents/Triennial%20Survey%20Results%2020212022/FinalCompiledTriennialSurveyResults202223.pdf.
As the discussion has continued, the Board has adopted a championship in 2022-23 for Girls’ Bass Fishing as well as a championship in 2023-24 in Indoor Track and Field. While many of the sports and sport-activities had a level of interest that merits considering it “emerging” but not yet “championship”, the Board discussion focus has been on four additional […]
04/24/23 – Esports Spring State Championships to Be Held Wednesday at UK
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: APRIL 24, 2023
After kicking off 2022-23 state competition with last December’s winter event, five more state champions will be crowned at the 2022-23 KHSAA Esports Spring State Championships presented by UK HealthCare inside the University of Kentucky Federal Credit Union Esports Lounge at The Cornerstone in Lexington on Wednesday.
Teams will compete for state titles in Rocket League (PC), League of Legends (PC), Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Nintendo Switch), Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Nintendo Switch) and Madden NFL 23 (PlayStation 4), with an award ceremony following the completion of every semifinal and final.
Tickets to the event are only available for purchase online and can be found at khsaatickets.org. The final rounds of each tournament will be streamed live on khsaa.tv for subscribers to the NFHS Network, as well as on the UK Twitch channels.
Play will start with the Madden NFL 23, Rocket League and League of […]
04/17/23 – Archery State Championships Take Aim Tuesday in Bowling Green
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: APRIL 17, 2023
The 2023 KHSAA Archery State Championships presented by UK HealthCare are set to take off Tuesday, April 18, at Ephram White Gymnasium in Bowling Green.
Gates will open for participants at 7 a.m. CT and for spectators at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday’s action will start with the first boys’/coed flight at 8:30 a.m., followed by the first girls’ flight at 9:45 a.m. A total of six flights are scheduled throughout the day, with an awards presentation set to follow the conclusion of competition.
Tickets to the 2023 KHSAA Archery State Championships can be purchased at khsaatickets.org. Full results will be updated Tuesday at khsaa.org.
2023 KHSAA Archery State Championships
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky […]
04/17/23 – Suncoast Model SBFPB-10 Bat placed on Non-Approved Bat List
The KHSAA has received official notification from the NFHS announcing that USA Softball, the national governing body utilized by NFHS Softball to certify bats, has placed the Suncoast Model SBFPB-10 bat on the Non-Approved Bat List with Certification Marks. This bat is not compliant for use under NFHS softball rules, effective immediately (4/17/2023). A picture of the bat is shown below.
These bats were approved when originally manufactured and were legal for play at that time, but due to some unforeseen issues no longer pass the approval requirements. You can find the entire list of USA Softball Non-Approved Bats with Certification Marks here: https://usa.asasoftball.com/e/BB1P2000.asp
– KHSAA –
About the Kentucky High School Athletic Association
The Kentucky High School Athletic Association was organized in 1917 and is the agency designated by the Kentucky Department of Education to manage high school athletics in […]
04/14/23- NFHS Announces Swimming & Diving Rule Changes
Risk Minimization Focus of 2023-24 High School Swimming and Diving Rules Changes
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
INDIANAPOLIS (April 14, 2023) – Swimming stroke changes and a new penalty for close diving board proximity stand out among the high school swimming and diving rules changes approved for the 2023-24 school year.
Risk minimization was a top priority, leading to eight rules changes brought forth by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Swimming and Diving Rules Committee, which held its annual meeting March 19-21 at the Conrad Hotel in downtown Indianapolis. The NFHS Board of Directors approved all eight rule change submissions.
Several technical rules changes were made to breaststroke, backstroke and butterfly. “We removed rules that do not present a competitive advantage, are rarely seen today, and make sense for high school swimmers,” said Sandy Searcy, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the NFHS Swimming and Diving […]
04/14/23 – Softball Mid-Season Updates & Interpretations
The KHSAA wanted to update member schools on different topics and questions that have been submitted to the office thus far this softball season.
FACE PROTECTION
Since 2018, Kentucky has required the use of face protection for pitchers, first basemen, and third basemen. The office has received several questions about interpretations of this rule which is understandable given the regular turnover of coaches and umpires. Below are a few examples with case situations included for umpires and coaches. None of these are revisions from the past years of implementation and most are simple clarifications.
- The face protection for pitchers, first basemen, and third basemen is required in all contests for KHSAA member schools, regular and postseason, whether the contest is played in Kentucky or out of state.
- Out-of-state teams who travel to the state of Kentucky to compete are not required by Kentucky rules to wear face protection but are expected to comply with any […]
4/14/23- Basketball Shot Clock Surveys
Two seasons ago, the NFHS gave states discretion in the adoption of the shot clock for competition in Kentucky. For the 2022-23 season, the KHSAA did a survey of its Designated Representatives about the shot clock and there was not a majority desiring to see it implemented. The Board approved those results and directed the survey to be conducted again prior to the 2023-24 season. It is felt this decision needs to be driven by the membership.We are again using our Board election system which is in the school subdomain to conduct this member school survey, which will actually be in two parts, one survey asking about BOYS’ competition and one about GIRLS’ competition, to ensure that if there are differences in thoughts, those differences are considered by the Board. We are asking for each school to submit its choice using this system using the directions below. This will require that only the […]
04/13/23 – Media Credentials Now Available for Spring Championships
The KHSAA’s online media credentialing system for spring state championships (archery, esports, bass fishing, tennis, track & field, baseball, softball) is now live and can be accessed via the following link: credentials.khsaa.org
Credentials to each KHSAA State Championship event are issued by the KHSAA to working members of the media who regularly cover high school athletics. Credentials must be requested prior to the established deadline for each sport through the online credentialing system.
Credentials should be requested by the sports editor/director for all members of their organization needing to attend an event. Credentials for freelance photographers and stringers must be requested by the sports editor/director at the outlet the freelancer will be representing. Media outlets are responsible for the actions of all individuals representing their organization, including compliance with KHSAA policies and procedures. No credentials will be issued outside of the online credentialing system. The KHSAA reserves the right to limit the number of […]
04/13/23 – Bass Fishing Regional Instructions Available
Instructions for KHSAA Regional Bass Fishing Tournaments are now posted on the KHSAA website. Manager information is posted on the KHSAA website and can be found here:
https://khsaa.org/bassfishing/2023/regionalmanagers.pdf
The KHSAA will also be conducting a female-division-only Regional and State Championship in 2023.
- In order for a regional female-only division to occur, there has to be a minimum of one launched female-only division boat on the day of competition.
- For female-only division, a school may enter a maximum of four boats.
- These four shall not count against the limit of six in the coed division.
- All athletes assigned to boats in the female division, including substitutes, must be female.
- Entries in the coed division can be all male, all female, or a combination of both genders, including all substitutions.
- All boats entered in the female-only division are not eligible for the coed division.
- Substitutes cannot be assigned to boats in both divisions.
04/11/23 – Two KHSAA Coaches Earn NFHS Section II Coach of the Year Honors
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: APRIL 11, 2023
Two KHSAA coaches earned 2021-22 Section II Coach of the Year honors from the National Federation of State High School Associations Coaches Association. Conner boys’ cross country head coach Ian Johnstone and Ballard softball head coach Alan Jones became the KHSAA’s 37th and 38th NFHS Section II Coach of the Year selections since 2001-02.
The NFHS, which has been recognizing coaches through a comprehensive 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 from the […]
04/10/23- Reminder about Academic All-State and Triple Threat Awards
REMINDER ABOUT PARTICIPATION AND TITLE IX REPORTS
Last week, each member school was sent a notice from Assistant Commissioner Darren Bilberry about the opening of the data entry for the Title IX and Participation Report processes. These annual reports are due by April 30. In case you were on spring break and somehow cannot place that email, the information is located at https://khsaa.org/4-6-23-2022-2023-title-ix-annual-report-and-participation-list-submission/.
In addition, we wanted to remind you about two recognition programs that are widely used by the membership and ensure that you take advantage of those programs.
REMINDER TO SINGLE-GENDER SCHOOLS ABOUT PARTICIPATION LISTING
Our handful of single-gender schools that are exempt from the Title IX reports continue to be required to submit the Annual Participation Report.
- Once you are ready (and by April 30), you need to do the roster review functions of the annual submission on the schools.khsaa.org login page.
- You will then click on the bar labeled […]
4/6/23 – 2022-2023 Title IX Annual Report and Participation List Submission
Schools are now able to access all of the required online forms to submit their 2022-2023 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 2022-2023.
- The deadline for submission is May 1, 2023.
- 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 […]
04/04/23 – KHSAA State Archery Championships Registration Now Open
Registration for the 2023 Boys/Coed and Girls State Archery Championships is now open. Registration shall remain open through Wednesday, April 12, 2023.
Use the links below to register for this event:
The top two teams from each Region Tournament advance to qualify for the State Tournament. Additionally, the top three individuals at each Region Tournament, who were not on an advancing team, also advance to the State Tournament. A list of the teams and individuals who qualified in the Boys/Coed Division can be viewed HERE. A list of the teams and teams and individuals who qualified in the Girls Division can be viewed HERE.
Once registration is closed, range/lane assignments will be made and sent out in advance of the Championships. These assignments shall be random and neither the archers nor coaches are authorized to […]
04/03/23 – Initial RPI Rankings, Stat Leader Reports Available for Baseball, Softball
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: APRIL 3, 2023
The first official KHSAA Ratings Percentage Index (RPI) rankings and the initial stat leader reports for the 2023 baseball and softball seasons are now available. All data is based solely upon the statistical information officially submitted to the KHSAA/Riherds Scoreboard by member schools.
- 2023 Baseball RPI Rankings
- 2023 Baseball Stat Leaders
- 2023 Softball RPI Rankings
- 2023 Softball Stat Leaders
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 KHSAA 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 […]
03/29/23 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Basketball
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MARCH 29, 2023
Each year, the Kentucky High School Athletic Association honors the top officials for the 10 sports in which it licenses officials. Finalists in each sport are selected through a combination of not only on-field performance but local association activity and leadership, training efforts and the mentoring of newer officials.
One official in each sport is named “Outstanding Official of the Year” for their sport in appreciation of their dedication and service to schools and student-athletes across the state. Winners are selected following consultation with local assigning secretaries, veteran officials’ observers, coaches throughout the state and additional staff review.
The Outstanding Official of the Year for the 2022-23 basketball season is Jason Wilkins of Central City. Each finalist will receive a commemorative watch and certificate courtesy of the Officials Division Trust Fund, with the Official of the Year receiving an additional recognition award.
With officiating numbers declining at the national […]
03/29/23 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Wrestling
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MARCH 29, 2023
Each year, the Kentucky High School Athletic Association honors the top officials for the 10 sports in which it licenses officials. Finalists in each sport are selected through a combination of not only on-field performance but local association activity and leadership, training efforts and the mentoring of newer officials.
One official in each sport is named “Outstanding Official of the Year” for their sport in appreciation of their dedication and service to schools and student-athletes across the state. Winners are selected following consultation with local assigning secretaries, veteran officials’ observers, coaches throughout the state and additional staff review.
The Outstanding Official of the Year for the 2022-23 wrestling season is Blake Durham of Louisville. Each finalist will receive a commemorative watch and certificate courtesy of the Officials Division Trust Fund, with the Official of the Year receiving an additional recognition award.
With officiating numbers declining at the national level, […]
03/29/23 – Official of the Year Winner Announced for Swimming & Diving
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MARCH 29, 2023
Each year, the Kentucky High School Athletic Association honors the top officials for the 10 sports in which it licenses officials. Finalists in each sport are selected through a combination of not only on-field performance but local association activity and leadership, training efforts and the mentoring of newer officials.
One official in each sport is named “Outstanding Official of the Year” for their sport in appreciation of their dedication and service to schools and student-athletes across the state. Winners are selected following consultation with local assigning secretaries, veteran officials’ observers, coaches throughout the state and additional staff review.
The Outstanding Official of the Year for the 2022-23 swimming & diving season is Christina Pitt of Paducah. Each finalist will receive a commemorative watch and certificate courtesy of the Officials Division Trust Fund, with the Official of the Year receiving an additional recognition award.
With officiating numbers declining at the […]
03/24/23 – NFHS Announces Competitive Cheer, Dance Rule Changes
Released Inversions, Tosses to Stunts Highlight High School Spirit Rules Changes for 2023-24
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
INDIANAPOLIS (March 24, 2023) – Two major rules changes for the 2023-24 high school spirit season involve released inversions and tosses to stunts to clarify rules for consistency.
Continued efforts to promote skill development and minimize risk led to eight total rule changes recommended by the NFHS Spirit Rules Committee at its February 13-14 meeting in Orlando, Florida. All recommended changes were approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
Several rules regarding released inversions with various twisting limitations were consolidated into Rule 3-3-6a. As a result, every usage of a “half turn” was changed to a “one twist” to allow for consistency. This revision establishes the same twisting allowance for each type of landing. Previously, there were full twist-, half- and quarter-turn landings.
“Consolidating each landing to one twist considers sensible anatomic […]
03/23/23- Basketball Scheduling and Corresponding Dates Reminders for 2023-24 and 2024-25
Nearly two years ago, the Board of Control approved revisions to the corresponding date calendar for basketball necessitated by the annual rollover of calendar dates, the periodic movement of the NCAA championships calendar and the availability of postseason championship facilities. In order to impact as few post-season sites as possible, the association adjusts its calendar periodically to allow for the incongruence of NCAA and NFHS planning calendars but so as not to lessen any competition season. This information was shared in detail during past regional meetings of the membership and the Designated Representatives and Principals in attendance.
Schools are reminded that the periodic “rollover” of corresponding dates occurs during 2023-24 and will result in an additional week of play for 2023-24 that is not available in 2024-25 and was not available in 2022-23. Whether you view the last week as the “extra week” or the first week (labeled Week 0 below), is a matter for […]
03/22/23 – NFHS Part 2 Exam for Officials in Baseball, Softball and Track Now Online
NFHS Part 2 Exams for licensed officials in the sports of Baseball, Softball, and Track are now available online.
The Part 2 Exams will be open until 11:59 p.m. (ET) based on the following schedules:
Track: Monday, May 1
Baseball: Monday, May 8
Softball: Monday, May 8
Login at https://officials.khsaa.org/authorize/ to take the test. The exam consists of 50 questions. A minimum score of 35 questions correct out of 50 is required for a passing score.
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 taken by another official, will have the score disregarded for the year and be subject to other penalties in compliance with the jurisdiction of the office through […]
03/22/23- Off Season Football Activity and Practice Reminders
Based on a series of inquiries in the last day or so, a couple of reminders are necessary for our football schools in an effort to prevent inadvertent violations of the bylaws surrounding football practice and off-season activity. NONE OF THESE PROVISIONS ARE NEW but with large turnover in many areas, a reminder seems prudent.
HELMETS AND EQUIPMENT
- Helmets are part of the player equipment spelled out in the NFHS playing rule 1-5. As such, the use of a helmet is restricted by Bylaw 23, just as all other playing equipment is restricted.
- Helmets may only be issued to players prior to July 10 in the following cases:
- An activity explicitly approved by school administration that is held on campus and involves only enrolled students at the school between the end of the 2022 playing season and July 10, not including the approved and reported spring practice dates. This activity may not […]
03/13/23 – UK HealthCare Boys’ Sweet 16® to Tip Off at Rupp Arena
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MARCH 13, 2023
The 2023 UK HealthCare Boys’ Basketball Sweet 16® is set to return to Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center in Lexington starting Wednesday, March 15, at 11 a.m. ET.
All 15 games of the tournament will be broadcast live on khsaa.tv to subscribers of the NFHS Network. Fans can listen to live audio of each game for free on khsaa.net. The games will also be carried statewide through the Kentucky Utilities/KHSAA Sweet 16® Radio Network.
2023 UK HealthCare Boys’ Basketball Sweet 16®
All times Eastern
Wednesday, March 15 (First Round)
11 a.m. Jeffersontown vs. Woodford County
1:30 p.m. Elizabethtown vs. McCracken County
6 p.m. Warren Central vs. Pulaski […]
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