The Washington County Athletic Conference has released its 2026 high school football slate, featuring nine head‑to‑head contests that pit the county’s traditional powers against one another. Schools such as Williamsport, Smithsburg, Boonsboro, North Hagerstown, Clear Spring and South Hagerstown will each play multiple games, setting the stage for a competitive season.
Historic Rivalries
Long‑standing series histories add extra intrigue to the schedule. Williamsport holds a 35‑17 edge over Smithsburg, while Boonsboro enjoys an 8‑0 record against Clear Spring. North Hagerstown maintains a 23‑14 advantage over Williamsport, and Boonsboro leads Clear Spring 28‑22 in their recent meetings.
Key Matchups to Watch
The season opens on September 11 when Williamsport travels to Smithsburg, a rematch of a 47‑7 victory for the visitors last year. Two weeks later, Boonsboro hosts Williamsport on October 2, seeking revenge after a 41‑27 loss in 2025. North Hagerstown will host Williamsport on October 9, a game they won 28‑20 the previous year, while Smithsburg meets Clear Spring on the same night, a contest Clear Spring edged 14‑7 in 2024.
Later‑Season Showdowns
October 15 brings Williamsport to South Hagerstown, where the home team holds a 34‑20 series lead, and Clear Spring visits Boonsboro, a venue where Boonsboro posted a 44‑13 win in 2019. The final regular‑season week on October 23 sees Boonsboro travel to North Hagerstown, a site of a 35‑26 victory last year, before the season‑closing clash on October 30 between North Hagerstown and South Hagerstown, which South Hagerstown won 20‑14 in 2023.
Season Outlook
With series records favoring several teams, the 2026 schedule promises competitive contests and potential shifts in the county hierarchy. Coaches and players alike will look to leverage historical momentum as they chase playoff berths and bragging rights across the county.