Maine Implements New Basketball Classification System

News Summary

The Maine Principals’ Association has introduced a new basketball classification system for the 2025-27 seasons, aimed at grouping schools by student enrollment. This change affects several sports and is designed to ensure fair competition among teams of similar sizes. Key classifications, including Class S for schools with fewer than 100 students, are expected to create a more balanced competitive landscape. The MPA has consulted with coaches and schools to finalize the changes, which aim to enhance sportsmanship and team dynamics in Maine high school athletics.

Portland, Maine Welcomes New Basketball Classification System

It’s an exciting time for high school basketball in Maine, as the Maine Principals’ Association (MPA) has officially given the green light to a revamped basketball classification system, set to roll out in the 2025-27 seasons. This comprehensive plan doesn’t just affect basketball; it includes reclassifications for other sports as well, creating a buzz among coaches, athletes, and fans alike.

Details of the New System

So, what’s going to change? The new classifications are designed to group schools based on their student enrollment numbers, ensuring that teams face opponents of a similar size and capability. Here’s the breakdown:

• Class A: Schools with more than 670 students
• Class B: Schools with 450-669 students
• Class C: Schools with 225-449 students
• Class D: Schools with 100-224 students
• Class S: A brand-new classification for schools with fewer than 100 students

This exciting new model means that for the next two years, athletes will face competition that is better aligned with their school size, which is eagerly anticipated by many.

How Did We Get Here?

The journey towards this new system wasn’t abrupt. Instead, it involved careful input from various sports committees and the MPA’s own classification committee, which worked tirelessly to ensure the proposal met the needs of all players. Each school had the chance to voice their concerns and appeal against decisions; however, after the review process, no appeals were granted, indicating a consensus on the new classifications.

What Does It Mean for Schools?

The most notable changes will be seen among the largest and smallest schools. For example, the current season features seven boys’ and girls’ teams in both AA North and AA South divisions. But come the next season, we’ll see an expanded competition landscape with a whopping 16 teams vying for glory in A South and 12 teams in A North. This also means that teams like Lewiston, Bangor, Oxford Hills, and Edward Little will find themselves in Class A North instead of their previous classifications.

Another change includes the adjustment to Class D, which is now accommodating schools with a maximum headcount of 129 students, giving smaller institutions a fair chance at competition.

Future Considerations