New Playoff Matrix Approved for High School Football in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s high school football scene is set to undergo a significant change this fall following the recent approval of an updated playoff matrix by the WIAA and its Board of Control. This important proposal, which was developed by the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association (WFCA), passed with an overwhelming vote of 10-1. Additionally, an 8-3 vote was made in favor of applying this matrix to regional groupings.

According to a WIAA release, the main goal of the matrix is to introduce “a fair, data-driven approach” to high school football playoffs. The matrix aims to ensure transparency, minimize travel, and provide consistency across the board. Nearly 88% of coaches who were polled by the WFCA expressed their support for the new system.

The new matrix includes key elements such as division placements, a ranking system, playoff qualifications, seeding, and regional placements. In a move to gauge local sentiment, several head coaches from the area were asked about their views on the proposal. All five respondents were in favor of the new matrix, with their teams reaching the playoffs last season across multiple divisions.

One coach noted that he voted for the proposal and appreciated the clarity it brings to the process. He emphasized that it was hard to explain previous playoff criteria due to confusion over the computer formula used in prior years. Another coach pointed out that the new format allows for better understanding of team positions and overall seeding during the season.

Another responded with support for the matrix, saying it addresses issues seen in past seeding processes, which were sometimes influenced by friendships and strategies rather than fairness. He highlighted the importance of transparency, calling the new seeding method “thoughtful and comprehensive.”

Coaches from winning programs also applauded the WFCA’s efforts, saying they felt the matrix aims toward greater fairness, reflecting the achievements of teams more accurately than in prior years. One coach expressed hope that the matrix would lead to “more competitive and fairer playoff matchups.”

Overall, coaches remain cautiously optimistic about the impact of the new playoff matrix and are eager to see how it unfolds in the upcoming season. The belief is that with cooperation between the WFCA, school administrations, and the WIAA, the changes will ultimately benefit all student-athletes participating in Wisconsin high school football.