Smaller Private Schools Challenge GHSA's Private-Only Playoff Format

Twenty schools represented in letter calling for suspension of Class 3A-A private division.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:10am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a high school football game, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and shape, conveying the fragmented nature of the private-only playoff system.The private-only playoff format has fractured Georgia's high school sports landscape, raising concerns about fairness and equal opportunities for all student-athletes.Atlanta Today

A group of 20 smaller private schools in Georgia have united to challenge the Georgia High School Association's (GHSA) private-only playoff format that has been in place since 2024. The schools, represented by their attorney, have sent a letter to the GHSA executive committee, warning that they are prepared to seek judicial and legislative solutions if the association does not reconsider the current format.

Why it matters

The private-only playoff format has been a controversial decision by the GHSA, as it effectively segregates private and public schools in the postseason. This move has raised concerns about fairness and equal opportunities for all student-athletes in the state.

The details

The letter, addressed by Brent Bell, the head of school for Darlington, one of the 20 represented schools, was presented to the GHSA executive committee this week. Bell struck a patient and cooperative tone, indicating that the schools are open to working with the association to find a resolution.

  • The private-only playoff format has been in place since 2024.

The players

Brent Bell

The head of school for Darlington, one of the 20 schools represented in the letter to the GHSA.

Georgia High School Association (GHSA)

The governing body for high school sports in Georgia that implemented the private-only playoff format in 2024.

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What’s next

The GHSA executive committee will review the letter and consider the concerns raised by the 20 private schools. A decision on the future of the private-only playoff format is expected in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

This challenge to the GHSA's private-only playoff format highlights the ongoing debate over fairness and equity in high school sports. The outcome of this dispute could have significant implications for the future of Georgia's high school athletic landscape.