NCHSAA to extend fall sports season due to Hurricane Helene

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) – High school sports for the fall season will be extended in North Carolina due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene.

The North Carolina High School Athletic Association made the announcement on Wednesday.

NCHSAA officials said these discussions were necessitated by the devastation in western North Carolina.

“Changes to the fall calendar are difficult as well as complex but necessary,” said NCHSAA President Dr. Stephen Gainey and NCHSAA Commissioner Que Tucker in a joint statement. “Keeping our student-athletes safe as we try to minimize risk of injury was central to any decisions made. We commend the work of the NCHSAA staff in its research, the Board of Directors in making time to consider these changes, and the willingness of our host partners to accommodate any changes and make their venues available.”

The high school football regular season will now run through Nov. 8. Meanwhile, the playoffs are slated to begin on Nov. 15 – one week later than previously scheduled. The state finals are set to be held on Dec. 20-21.

Click here to learn more about how the decision impacts other sports.

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