UIL votes to approve split divisions for postseason in five high school sports

AUSTIN, Texas (KFDA) - On Tuesday afternoon, the UIL approved multiple new rule changes for the upcoming school year.

Among the biggest changes was a move to split divisions in the postseason in volleyball, basketball, soccer, softball, and baseball.

The change will not impact the regular season as the current district alignment for 2024-26 will remain the same. The four qualifying playoff teams from each district will then be split into two divisions once the playoffs start based on enrollment numbers. The two smallest schools will be placed into a Division II bracket while the two largest schools will be placed into a Division I bracket.

This format will be similar to that of the current playoff setup for football at the 6A level. It will create multiple state champions in each classification in which the change is implemented.

Here are the classifications that the UIL will split up in each sport:

• 1A-6A in boys and girls basketball
• 2A-6A in volleyball, baseball, and softball
• 4A-6A in boys and girls soccer

“We are very excited for the opportunity for our athletic programs with the news of the split divisions coming from the UIL today.” Canyon ISD Director of Athletics John Peterson said. “We are looking forward to competing in a very tough district across our boys and girls sports next year.”

This change will create 12 state basketball champions as well as 11 state champions in volleyball, softball, and baseball.

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