AHSAA re-alignment unveiled with creation of new classification

For the first time in more than 25 years, the AHSAA Central Board made a major change to the governing body’s classification system.   Beginning this fall, the AHSAA will have seven classifications, with the 32 largest schools by enrollment in the newly created Class 7A. The remaining six classes were divided as equally as possible with 60 schools in 6A, 61 in 5A, 60 in 4A, 60 in 3A, 58 in 2A and 58 making up Class 1A.  This change will be for all sports.  In Class 7A, There will be two eight-team regions in the North. A Birmingham-based region makes up Class 7A, Region 3. Gadsden City joins a Huntsville-heavy Class 7A, Region 4.  The new Class 7A begins with Hoover and its grades 10-12 enrollment of 1,978 students for classification purposes. James Clemens is the smallest school in the new super class with 1,008 students. Many local schools are affected by this years re-alignment.

Oxford will remain in 6a and will be joined by Southside Gadsden, Albertville and Ft. Payne

In 5A, Region 3 will include Central of Clay County along with Sylacauga and Talladega. 5A region 6 includes Alexandria, Anniston, Lincoln, St. Clair County and Springville.  5A Region 7 includes Etowah, Boaz, Guntersville, Douglas and Randolph.

Class 4a Region 6 will include Cherokee County, Cleburne County, Crossville, Hokes Bluff, Jacksonville, Saks, Sardis and White Plains.

Class 3A Region 6 will include Ashville, Glencoe, Ohatchee, Piedmont, Pleasant Valley, Wellborn, Weaver and Westbrook Christian.

Class 2A Region 7 will include Cleveland, Collinsville, Fyffe, Gaston, Ider, Section and West End Walnut Grove.

1A Region 7 will include Cedar Bluff, Coosa Christian, Gaylesville, Jacksonville Christian, Spring Garden, Valley Head and Woodville.