NOVEMBER 2026

We extend special congratulations to our 2026 Fast-Pitch Softball State Champions:

• Class 7A: Harrison

• Class 6A: Creekview

• Class 5A: Jefferson

• Class 4A: West Laurens

• Class 3A: Sonoraville

• Class 2A: Gordon Lee

• Class A: Trion

• Private: Mount Paran Christian

We also proudly recognize our 2026 Volleyball State Champions:

• Class 7A: North Forsyth

• Class 6A: Woodward Academy

• Class 5A: Marist

• Class 4A: Oconee County

• Class 3A: Morgan County

• Class A/2A: Bremen

• Private: Lovett

We also congratulate every team and individual who competed this fall. While a championship is a special achievement, the lessons learned through competition—discipline, resilience, responsibility and respect—will benefit our students long after the season ends.

The excitement continues as we prepare to finish cheerleading, cross country, One Act Play, flag football and football over the next few weeks. These culminating events provide opportunities to celebrate the talent and commitment of students across Georgia. We wish all remaining participants the very best as they represent their schools and communities in pursuit of a state title.

As fall competition concludes, wrestling, rifle and basketball are beginning. A new season brings fresh goals and opportunities for students to grow, compete and build lasting relationships. We look forward to following their accomplishments throughout the winter.

Thank you to our member schools, contest officials, event workers and host communities for making these experiences possible. As we celebrate our champions and welcome a new season, let us continue to model good sportsmanship and keep our students at the center of everything we do.

The Georgia High School Association is mourning the passing of longtime GHSA leader Ernie Yarbrough, who died Saturday, October 17, 2026.

Yarbrough began working with the GHSA in 1992 as a rules interpreter and served the association in several roles, including Coordinator of Officiating and Assistant Executive Director. He retired from day-to-day duties with the GHSA in 2024 but remained on staff part time, continuing to share his experience and support the association.

As the GHSA associate director of girls flag football, Yarbrough helped guide the sport’s growth and success. He helped secure grants and expand participation across the state, creating more opportunities for student-athletes.

Yarbrough’s experience, dedication and care for others made a lasting difference in Georgia high school sports. Those who knew him will remember his familiar sign-off: “Be safe out there”—a simple expression of the thoughtfulness and concern he showed others.

The GHSA community will deeply miss Ernie and the knowledge, commitment and kindness he shared with its schools, student-athletes, coaches and colleagues.

Service Arrangements

Funeral Service
Saturday, November 14, 2026
Noon–1 p.m.
Rising Hills Church
3693 Hickory Flat Highway
Canton, GA 30115

Following the service, a Celebration of Life will be held at:
Cherokee Veterans Park
7345 Cumming Highway
Canton, GA 30115

The family requests that donations be made to the "Make Room" Expansion Program at Rising Hills Church, 3693 Hickory Flat Highway, Canton, GA 30115. Use the link below to be directed to the donation page.

TIM SCOTT - Executive Director - (ext. 141) Administration, Interpretation of GHSA Rules, Hardship Applications, Appeals, Coaches Education Program, Flag Football, Swimming (Andy Cowart) Wrestling (Bud Hennebaul) tim.scott@ghsa.net

CARROR WRIGHT - Associate Director - (ext. 139) Coach’s Liaison, Compliance & Transfer Eligibility, Sportsmanship cwright@ghsa.net

DANNY REDSHAW - Associate Director - (ext. 135) Baseball, Volleyball dannyredshaw@ghsa.net

DARRELL LANE - Associate Director - (ext. 142) Volleyball, Basketball, Lacrosse, Officiating darrell@ghsa.net

JASPER JEWELL - Associate Director - (ext. 140) Bass Fishing, Football jjewell@ghsa.net

JULIE JONES - Administrative Assistant - (ext. 124) Community Coach Program, Entry Notification, Dues, Paraprofessional Head Coach Program juliejones@ghsa.net

KENT MORROW - Associate Director - (ext. 136) PSR, eSports, Golf, Riflery kent.morrow@ghsa.net

LINDA CROWDER - Administrative Assistant - (ext. 121) Organizing Championship Medals, Assist

with Cheerleading, Student Leadership, Literary, School System/Staff Passes, linda@ghsa.net

MARVIN JAMES - Media Director - (ext. 126) Press Releases, Media Coordination of State Events, Newsletter, Constitution & Calendar, Tennis marvin.james@ghsa.net

MERRI SHERMAN - Associate Director - (ext. 134) Softball, Soccer msherman@ghsa.net

PAM THOMPSON - Officials' Registrar - (ext. 130) Officials' Clinic Attendance, Officials' Registrations, Test Scoring & Records, Waivers, Officials and Evaluator Passes, GHSA Recruiting Grant, Publications and eBooks, Awards, Service Plaques pamthompson@ghsa.net

PENNY PITTS MITCHELL - Associate Director - (ext. 122) Cheerleading, Game Day Cheerleading, Gymnastics, Dance, Student Leadership, Title IX penny@ghsa.net

ROBIN BULLINGTON - Office Manager - (ext. 133) Budgeting and Finances, Playoff & Championship Finances, Staff Procedures robin@ghsa.net

ROBIN HINES - GHSA Legislative Liaison/Consultant. By-law Interpretations, Eligibility, Hardship Rulings, Swimming robin.hines@ghsa.net

SHERI EUBANKS -Administrative Assistant/Weight Management Coordinator - (ext. 131) Lifetime Passes, School System Passes, Ejection Reports, Hardship/Appeals Scheduler, Publication Orders, Rules Violation and Ejection Fines, Wrestling Weight Management, NFHS Annual Participation Survey sherieubanks@ghsa.net

STACEY JONES - Administrative Assistant - (ext. 132) School Contacts & School Passes, Directory, Coaches’ Clinics, Trophies & Medals stacey@ghsa.net

TANYA ANDERSON - Associate Director - (ext. 129) Literary, One Act Play, Cross Country, Track & Field, Event Sanctioning, and Student Leadership tanyaanderson@ghsa.net

The 2026 GHSA Volleyball State Championships presented by Mizuno, was held October 29 & 31 at Lake Point Sports Champions Center. State Champions are: North Forsyth, Woodward Academy, Marist, Oconee County, Morgan County, Bremen and Lovett. View complete past champion history.

Watch matches on NFHSNetwork.com/GHSA free on demand three days after the event. Digital downloads available to order at NFHS Network.

View & order action photos at BPI Photography.

Much appreciation goes to host site Lake Point Sports Complex, match officials, GHSA staff, GVCA, media, fans and corporate partners with special thanks to presenting sponsor Mizuno, Molten (official ball), PepWear (merchandising), NFHS Network (video streaming), GoFan (digital tickets), ScoreAtlanta (digital fan guide); all of whom made this volleyball championship a huge success.

Playoff Brackets

GHSA Member Schools,

Following Coach Stephen Mackeys presentation to the GHSA Executive Committee last month in Macon, we are sharing an opportunity for schools interested in participating in The Champions Standard Pilot Program.

This voluntary pilot will provide participating schools with access to leadership, character and sportsmanship resources at no cost, while also allowing schools to provide feedback that will help shape the program for implementation in Georgia.

Please see the attached letter above for additional information and the accompanying flyer to scan the QR code if your school is interested in participating.

Participation is completely voluntary.

Thank you for your continued commitment to sportsmanship and the positive development of Georgia's student-athletes.

For any questions please reach out to:

Windy Leighton <windy@2words.tv>

Stephen Mackey <mackey@2words.tv>

The 2026 GHSA Fast Pitch Softball State Championships presented by Mizuno were held October 28 - October 31 at South Commons Softball Complex in Columbus. Congratulations to the 2026 state champions: Creekview, Gordon Lee, Harrison, Jefferson, Mount Paran, Sonoraville, Trion and West Laurens.

It was back to back championships for Creekview. Gordon Lee last won in 2024 and West Laurens back in 2022. View Past Champions.

A special thanks to all who helped make this state tournament a success in spite of the inclement weather.. Appreciation goes to the Columbus Sports Council, Columbus Parks & Recreations, GHSA staff, volunteers, umpires, fans and corporate partners.

Playoff Brackets
Elite Eight Brackets

Video
Order digital game copies on NFHS Network.

Merchandise
Merchandise by Pepwear. Order online at pepwear.com.

Event Fan Guide

Download Digital Fan Guide Produced by Score Atlanta.

Photos
Order action photography at BPI Photography.

The GHSA has strengthened its credentialing standards for championship-level events due to repeated fraudulent media representation during state finals, unprofessional conduct, and violations of ethical standards.

GHSA championship media credentials are reserved for working media representing established professional news and sports outlets. Independent content creators, social-media influencers, fan pages, and individuals covering events primarily for personal social-media platforms are not eligible.

Previous approval for a GHSA championship credential does not guarantee future approval. We will evaluate all applications under current credentialing standards.

Limited exceptions may be considered for personnel officially affiliated with a GHSA member school. School administration must verify the individual's official role and purpose for covering the event. Verification does not guarantee credential approval; final approval remains at the discretion of the GHSA.

These standards are designed to protect student-athletes, maintain a professional working environment, and ensure appropriate media access at GHSA championship events. Submitting an application does not guarantee approval.

Questions regarding media credentials should be directed to Marvin James, Director of Media Relations, at marvin.james@ghsa.net

MEDIA PASS PORTAL IS OPEN: https://www.ghsa.net/media-pass-request-form

A special thank you to BPI Photography, the Official GHSA Championship Event Photographer!

From unforgettable victories to memories that last a lifetime, BPI Photography helps capture the excitement of GHSA championship events.

Find your championship photos here:

https://www.bpiphotography.net/ghsa/

#GHSA #GHSAChampionships #BPIPhotography #ChampionshipMoments

The GHSA Tommy Guillebeau Football State Championships, presented by Alfa Insurance, will be December 15-16, 2026, Tuesday through Wednesday, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium..

All finals will be televised live on Georgia Public Broadcasting with streaming to any device at GPB.org and NFHSNetwork.com. Fans can listen to select radio broadcasts on 680 The Fan family of stations.

We look forward to welcoming players, coaches, cheerleaders, bands and fans to Mercedes-Benz Stadium for two exciting days of high school football action!

When

December 15-16, 2026

Where

Mercedes-Benz Stadium
1 AMB Drive, NW
Atlanta, Georgia 30313-1501
Directions
Purchase Parking
Mercedes-Benz Guide A-Z
Mercedes-Benz Contact Form
Parking Map

Accessibility Services: https://www.mercedesbenzstadium.com/accessibility

GHSA Ticket Requirement policy is “Babes in Arms” do not require a ticket.

Tickets

Tickets are only on GoFan. (Includes all games that day.)
Ticket Prices

Schedule

TBD

Media, College Coaches, GHSA Passes & Credentials
(All Media reps MUST pre-register:). Media "will-call" window (beside Gate 1) will open one hour before the first game each day.
College Coaches, GHSA Pass Holders - Show ID at window beside Gate 1.
Media credentials for championship events must be requested from the GHSA Media Pass Request Form.

Radio
Live on 680 The Fan

TV
Live on Georgia Public Broadcasting & streamed on gpb.org

Video
All games live on NFHS Network.
Order copies on NFHS Network.

Statistics
State final statistics provided by West Georgia Sports Information Services.
http://ghsafootball.weebly.com/

Merchandise
State championship merchandise will be available on site by PepWear or online at pepwear.com.

Event Fan Guide
A Digital Fan Guide will be available for free download and also attached to GoFan tickets. Produced by Score Atlanta.

Photos
Order action photos by BPI Photography.

Sports Medicine
Sports medicine coverage coordinated by Piedmont Orthopedics by OrthoAtlanta.

Social Media
Follow & Tag your Instagram, Twitter, Facebook & TikTok post to @OfficialGHSA.

Brackets
TBD

The 2026 GHSA Cross Country State Championships, presented by Atlanta Track Club, will be held November 6-7 at the Carrollton Course. Tickets may be purchased only on GoFan. View complete past state champion history: Boys & Girls Live results will be available online by MileSplitGA.

When

November 6-7, 2026

Where

Carrollton Course

Carrollton High School

202 Trojan Drive

Carrollton, GA

Map and Directions
Course Map

(No Pets Please)
Course Preview

Tickets

Digital tickets at GoFan
How Fans Buy Tickets
Ticket Prices

Schedule

Coaches instructions (Updated 10/20/2026)

Friday 11/6/2026
9:00am 4A BOYS
9:45am 4A GIRLS
10:30am 5A BOYS
11:15am 5A GIRLS
12:00pm PRIVATE 2A-4A BOYS
12:45pm PRIVATE 2A-4A GIRLS

Saturday 11/7/2026
8:00am 6A BOYS
8:45am 6A GIRLS
9:30am 2A BOYS
10:15am 2A GIRLS
11:00am 1A BOYS
11:45am 1A GIRLS
12:30pm 7A BOYS
1:15pm 7A GIRLS
2:00pm 3A BOYS
2:45pm 3A GIRLS

Event Fan Guide
Download Digital Fan Guide. Produced by Score Atlanta.

Meet Results
View State Meet Results on MileSplitGA.

Media
Media credentials for championship events must be requested from the GHSA Media Pass Request Form.

Photos
Order action photos by BPI Photography.

Merchandise
State championship merchandise will be available on site by PepWear or online at pepwear.com.

Social Media
Follow & Tag your Instagram, Twitter, Facebook & TikTok post to @OfficialGHSA.

The 2026 GHSA Cheerleading State Championships presented by Rebel Athletic will be held November 13-14 at the Macon Centrepex. Tickets will be available exclusively on GoFan. GPB.org and NFHS Network will live stream both days of the competition. View past state champions.

When

November 13-14, 2026

Where

Macon Centreplex
200 Coliseum Drive
Macon GA

Visit Macon: With its rich music history, stunning architecture, Southern charm and a diverse culinary scene, Macon, Georgia is "Where Soul Lives." Plan what to do on your Macon visit today! https://visitmacon.org/

Tickets

Tickets available ONLY at GoFan.
How Fans Buy Tickets
Ticket Prices
The arena will be cleared between the 1st and 2nd Session each day. Please make sure your ticket purchase is for your team's session.

Schedule

TBD

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL FANS
Absolutely NO FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY allowed from any mobile device (phone / iPad/ tablet) or cameras by spectators during the cheerleading competition. This is a danger to the cheerleaders and displays poor sportsmanship toward the teams competing. Violators are subject to removal from the venue.

Streaming/TV
All cheerleading state routines will be streamed live on GPB.org/sports and NFHSNetwork. The “GHSA Cheerleading State Special” will be televised on Georgia Public Broadcasting on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 29-30 from 6:30 - 7:30 pm.

Event Fan Guide
A Digital Fan Guide will be available for free download and also attached to GoFan tickets. Produced by Score Atlanta.

Media
Media credentials for championship events must be requested from the GHSA Media Pass Request Form.

Photos
Order action photos by BPI Photography.

Social Media
Follow & Tag your Instagram, Twitter, Facebook & TikTok post to @OfficialGHSA.

Merchandise
State championship merchandise will be available on site by PepWear or online at pepwear.com.

The 2026 GHSA State One Act Play Championships will be held on November 14 and November 21.

View all past champions.

When

November 14, 2026

November 21, 2026

Where

Nov. 14
Perry HS (1A) Site Info
Harris County HS (3A) Site Info
Barrow County PAC (4A) Site Info
Carrollton HS (6A) Site InfoNov. 21
Tift County HS (2A) Site Info
Baldwin HS (5A) Site Info
Monroe County FAC (7A) Site Info

Tickets

No Charge

Schedule

State Schedule for 2026 (All Classifications)

Region 7
8:40 - Move to wings
9:00 - Curtain

Region 8
10:00 - Move to wings
10:20 - Curtain

Region 1
11:20 - Move to wings
11:40 - Curtain

Region 2
12:40 - Move to wings
1:00 - Curtain

BREAK

Region 3
2:25 - Move to wings
2:45 - Curtain

Region 4
3:45 - Move to wings
4:05 - Curtain

Region 5
5:05 - Move to wings
5:25 - Curtain

Region 6
6:25 - Move to wings
6:45 - Curtain

Merchandise
State championship merchandise will be available by PepWear online at pepwear.com

Social Media
Follow & Tag your Instagram, Twitter, Facebook & TikTok post to @OfficialGHSA.

Calling All Georgia Volleyball Fans!

It's 10k Day! Georgia Volleyball faces Tennessee on Friday, November 13th, at 7:00pm at the Steg. The first 1,000 fans will receive a free t-shirt, enjoy our kids' zone, and cheer on your Georgia Bulldogs. Join us at the Steg and be a part of history as we break the State of Georgia attendance record for the 3rd straight year on Friday, November 13th, at 7:00pm. Admission is free for all fans!

If you and your group plan to join us, please send a contact name, number, school or club name, and the number of team members to Leigh Ann Holland at lholland@uga.edu.

The NFHS and NFL are in their fourth year of their combined Crew of the Month and Crew of the Year initiative. The initiative began during the 2023 football season with five state associations and five teams involved in a pilot program, growing to 30 state associations and all 32 NFL teams participating this season.

The participating state associations and their respective NFL teams recognize high school football officials in the months of September, October, and November for their demonstration of objectivity, fairness in rules implementation and commitment as high school football officials. A total of 39 crews and over 240 officials are recognized each month, as some teams recognize officials from more than one state in their markets.

At the end of the season, an overall Crew of the Year is selected from the 117 crews submitted during the 2026 season. The Crew of the Year participates in an activation at the NFL Hall of Fame Game held in August.