Fairfield’s Michael Barger (22) picks up yardage as he breaks through the Johnston City defense during the first quarter on Friday, Oct. 3, in Johnston City.
Wednesday night, during the IHSA’s monthly board meeting, the IHSA Board of Directors approved action for Board President Dan Tully to call a special meeting of the IHSA’s Legislative Commission on January 27.
Based on a recommendation from the IHSA’s Sports Medicine Advisory Committee, the Board is asking the Legislative Commission to consider a by-law amendment that would move the IHSA football practice start date from Monday, August 10, 2026 to Wednesday, August 5, 2026. The proposal will also seek to reinstate that all high school football players in the state participate in 12 official practices prior to being eligible to participate in an IHSA football contest.
“While the Board understands this change may impact summer scheduling for coaches and players, they are aligned with the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee in believing it is a necessary step to protect student-athletes,” explained IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson.
The Legislative Commission will meet on January 27 to consider the proposal. If they approve, all IHSA member schools will have the opportunity to cast one vote on the proposal beginning on January 29 thru February 12. If the proposal receives a simple majority of support, it will go into effect this August for the 2026 IHSA football season.
The IHSA membership voted in December to expand the IHSA Football Playoffs in 2026. The proposal required the season start date to move forward one week, which impacted the practice start date and required number of practices.
