Comfortability: a concept almost foreign to schools navigating the constant reshuffling of GHSA classifications. Every two years, Georgia high schools undergo a regional restructuring that completely alters the competition and travel demands. North Atlanta has felt this uncertainty firsthand. After the GHSA briefly removed Class 7A and placed the school in 6A, it later restored the seven classifications, returning North Atlanta to 7A among several distant powerhouses. The school appealed, likely for travel and or a competitive balance, and the board approved a move to a new region with more suitable opponents. Now, athletes are left considering the true benefits of this shift and whether North Atlanta really belongs in 7A.
Mathew Hoover, a junior catcher on the Dubs baseball team, expresses his concern about the new region, noting that even with the appeal, several opponents are still far enough away to require early dismissal from class. He worries that constant absences could make staying on top of his work significantly more difficult, especially in the spring. For him, the reclassification feels like a step forward and back at the same time. “We are called student-athletes for a reason,” he said. “It’s hard to compete and stay focused when you feel like you’re playing catch-up in the classroom.”
Junior varsity basketball player, RJ Scott, offered a contrasting viewpoint, describing the new region as an exciting opportunity. He believes facing stronger programs will push the team to the standard they wish to achieve and prepare them for postseason play which contains the same level of competition. To him, this gives the team a chance to really show the state what they are capable of, despite the doubts. For Scott, the increased level of play severely outweighs any logistical challenges. “If we want to reach that next milestone, we have to play teams that force us to rise to their level,” he said.
Disregarding program locations, Francie Herring, a junior on the girls soccer team questions whether North Atlanta should even be in 7A. She acknowledges that the amount of students enrolled in the school places us in this classification, but she feels the competitive jump is too much. Competing against long-established 7A powerhouses can be unsettling, especially for schools just now discovering a foundation for their athletics. She believes 6A would be more suitable, as it encourages intense competition, while keeping a balanced skill gap. Herring urges that it ensures schools can develop a culture and consistency, which is critical for extensive success. “There’s a difference between being challenged and being outmatched, and I think we’re still figuring out where we fit in,” she said.
Ultimately, whether the move to 7A proves beneficial will depend on how North Atlanta’s athletes take advantage of the excelled competition, opportunities, and change that lies before them.
