NIAA Struggles to Find Solution for Bishop Gorman Football Dominance

The Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association is facing a major challenge in addressing the competitive imbalance caused by Bishop Gorman's football program.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 8:39pm

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The Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA) is grappling with the ongoing issue of Bishop Gorman's football dominance, which has created a significant imbalance in high school sports across the state. Despite attempts to overhaul the system, including the creation of a 10-team open division that would have reduced Bishop Gorman's national profile, the Archdiocese of Las Vegas intervened, leading the NIAA to reverse course. This has left the organization searching for a sustainable solution that addresses the concerns of other schools and parents, while also recognizing Bishop Gorman's status as a powerhouse program.

Why it matters

The Bishop Gorman football program's continued dominance has sparked outrage from parents and local principals, with some schools even threatening to withdraw from the NIAA. This issue highlights the challenges of maintaining competitive balance in high school sports, particularly when a single program consistently outperforms its peers. Finding a solution that satisfies all stakeholders is crucial for the long-term stability and integrity of the NIAA.

The details

The NIAA's attempted overhaul in November 2025 called for the creation of a 10-team open division, which would have required Bishop Gorman to play nine league games and significantly reduced the Gaels' national profile. However, this plan was quickly rescinded after the Archdiocese of Las Vegas threatened legal action, citing 'divine intervention.' The reversal has set the stage for many other schools in the district to consider withdrawing from the NIAA, further exacerbating the issue.

  • In November 2025, the NIAA Board of Control voted to make changes to the high school football system.
  • The NIAA's proposed changes were quickly rescinded in early 2026 after the Archdiocese of Las Vegas threatened legal action.

The players

Bishop Gorman

A private Catholic high school in Las Vegas, Nevada, known for its dominant football program that attracts top talent from around the country.

Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA)

The governing body for high school sports in the state of Nevada, responsible for overseeing and regulating athletic competitions.

Archdiocese of Las Vegas

The Catholic diocese that oversees Bishop Gorman High School and intervened to reverse the NIAA's proposed changes to the high school football system.

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What they’re saying

“It's time to start thinking outside the box on this one.”

— Adam Hill, Sports Columnist (reviewjournal.com)

What’s next

The NIAA is currently exploring various options to address the competitive imbalance caused by Bishop Gorman's football dominance, including the possibility of a two-team open division tournament or allowing Bishop Gorman to compete as an affiliate member outside of the regular NIAA playoffs.

The takeaway

The Bishop Gorman football issue has exposed the challenges of maintaining competitive balance in high school sports, particularly when a single program consistently outperforms its peers. The NIAA must find a sustainable solution that addresses the concerns of other schools and parents, while also recognizing Bishop Gorman's status as a powerhouse program.