Cv, U-Hi Will Remain In Gsl

Here’s a look at what the future holds for Valley high schools under the new WIAA classification guidelines:

Central Valley (enrollment 1,262) and University (enrollment 1,073) will remain part of the Greater Spokane League.

Coaches at U-Hi, which is small enough to compete as a 3A school, had explored the possibility of remaining in the GSL but playing in 3A state tournaments.

“After looking at all the parameters, it was best to stay (4A) unless the kids are in a position where they can’t be successful,” said athletic director Bill Ames.

University has the league’s second-lowest enrollment but has been second to Mead for the league’s all-sports trophy 8 of the past 10 years.

The GSL will grow to 10 schools next year when Mount Spokane High opens.

East Valley (enrollment 1,162) and West Valley (enrollment 644) will remain part of the Frontier League, which next year will be reduced by at least two schools.

Frontier members Pullman and Riverside are dropping down to 2A. Colville also would like to drop to 2A. It has proposed setting up separate sports programs at its alternative high school, Panorama, which would then compete at the B level.

Freeman High (enrollment 216) will drop out of the present Northeast A League, which will be a 2A conference and absorb Pullman and Riverside from the Frontier. “We’re too small,” said Freeman football coach John Custer. “With the possibility of Reardan and Republic becoming A, we might have a five team league.”

The Scotties will continue to schedule some NEA schools, along with Class B Tekoa-Oakesdale. They’ll try to pick up games with former Bi-County rival Liberty. “It would be a natural football opener,” Custer said.

Valley Christian School (enrollment 68) will remain in the Bi-County League.

, DataTimes