The North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) is gearing up for the start of its football season, marking the second year of an eight‑class championship structure that promises heightened competition across the state. Practices are slated to begin on August 31, with the first games kicking off on September 9. Playoff action will commence on October 31, culminating in state finals on November 14, featuring six rounds of elimination that will crown champions in each of the eight divisions.
A New Era for North Carolina High School Football
This season introduces girls’ flag football as an official sport, expanding participation opportunities and reflecting the association’s push toward gender equity. Teams are allowed to schedule up to four contests per week, with the fourth game permitted on a non‑school day, while regular‑season matchups remain limited to 18 games on 80‑yard by 40‑yard fields.
Among the storylines, eight‑star recruits Jaxon Dollar, Rashad Streets and Joshua Dobson headline a wave of five‑star talent. Dobson has committed to South Carolina and boasts a $1.5 million NIL valuation, while Streets pledged to Oregon as a top‑10 national prospect. Dollar recently signed an exclusive apparel deal with Nike, underscoring the growing intersection of high school athletics and commercial partnerships.
New coaching faces include Carter Greene at Ardrey Kell, Mike Brodowicz at Charlotte Catholic, Mark Barnes at Crest, and Duke Howell at Myers Park, each bringing fresh perspectives to their programs. The opening night on August 21 will set the tone for a season that also sees Ambassador Christian representing the state in the Global Ireland Football Tournament in Dublin on August 28, where he will meet Grapevine Faith Christian in a 6,000‑seat arena.