The 2024 Georgia high school state playoff schedule is getting a makeover.
This year, there won’t be any playoff games during Thanksgiving week, according to Georgia High School Association (GHSA) president Robin Hines. The GHSA made this change despite the recent announcement that the Georgia-Georgia Tech rivalry game will take place on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving.
Traditionally, the semifinal playoff games were held during Thanksgiving week, but now they’ll be moved to December 6, right before the SEC championship game, to avoid conflicts. Consequently, the playoff finals will be pushed back to December 16-18.
On the other hand, the Georgia Independent Athletic Association (GIAA) won’t take a break, wrapping up their playoffs from November 21-23. This is a bit earlier than usual, as their season typically ends in late November or early December. All region play for both leagues must be finished by October 25, with the first round of state playoffs starting November 1.
2024 Georgia high school state playoff schedule changes mean that GHSA players will have a break during Thanksgiving week instead of preparing for semifinal games, allowing them to spend time with their families. GIAA players, with their season ending before Thanksgiving, can also enjoy the holiday without the pressure of upcoming games.
Here’s the updated schedule for both leagues:
GHSA:
- First round: Nov. 8 – Nov. 9
- Second round: Nov. 15
- Third round: Nov. 22
- Semifinals: Dec. 6
- Finals: Dec. 16 – Dec. 18
The GHSA state championship games will be held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
GIAA:
- First round: Nov. 1
- Quarterfinals: Nov. 8
- Semifinals: Nov. 15
- Finals: Nov. 21 – Nov. 23
The GIAA state finals will be played at Allen E. Paulson Stadium in Statesboro.
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