In a significant development for high school football in Iowa, the IHSAA Board of Control has unveiled the district and group assignments for the upcoming 2025 and 2026 seasons. The new classification system incorporates a socioeconomic factor, reducing 40% of a school's free or reduced lunch (FRL) count from its annual enrollment to determine final classification numbers. This adjustment aims to create a more equitable playing field for schools with varying economic backgrounds. The changes affect all classes, from Class 5A down to Eight-Player, impacting regular season schedules, playoff qualifiers, and the number of games played.

Details of the New Football Season Assignments and Formats

In the heart of the Midwest, during a crisp autumn morning, the IHSAA Board of Control convened via Zoom to finalize the district and group assignments for the 2025 and 2026 football seasons. The meeting marked the second cycle incorporating a socioeconomic factor into football classifications, approved by the State Board of Education in 2023. Schools will now have their FRL percentages factored into their enrollment, adjusting their classification numbers accordingly.

For the largest class, Class 5A, the format includes 36 teams divided into six groups of six teams each. Teams will play nine regular-season games, five within their group and four non-group matches. Sixteen playoff spots will be determined through an at-large system using the Ratings Percentage Index (RPI). In addition, the success model tiers have expanded from six to twelve teams, ensuring more competitive matchups throughout the season.

Classes 4A, 3A, 2A, 1A, A, and Eight-Player also received updated formats, with consistent structures across most classes: 36 teams per class, six districts, and five district games. The playoff qualification process varies slightly, with automatic and at-large berths allocated based on performance metrics. Notably, Classes 2A, 1A, A, and Eight-Player will allow teams that do not qualify for the postseason to play a ninth regular-season game.

The first week of the 2025 football season is set to kick off on Thursday, August 28th. Member schools will receive priority lists for non-district opponents, and the IHSAA will continue to compile and create varsity football schedules for this two-year cycle.

From a journalist’s perspective, this reclassification brings a fresh approach to high school football, promoting fairness and competitiveness. By integrating socioeconomic factors, the IHSAA acknowledges the diverse realities faced by schools and ensures that smaller, economically challenged institutions are not unfairly disadvantaged. This move sets a commendable precedent for balancing equity and athletic excellence in interscholastic sports.