News Summary

The Minnesota State High School League is proposing an increase in the number of regular-season games for high school softball and baseball from 20 to 24. This 20% boost could provide teams with enhanced opportunities for practice and competition. A vote on the proposal is scheduled for October 2, and if approved, teams may also structure tournaments to count as a single playing date, allowing for more strategic scheduling. Coaches have shown strong support for these changes, which could help Minnesota student-athletes compete at a higher level.

Exciting News for Minnesota High School Softball and Baseball Teams!

Attention, sports fans in Minnesota! Get ready for some thrilling updates about high school softball and baseball leagues. The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) is considering a *major expansion* to the regular season for both sports, and it’s about to get even more exciting for our young athletes out there.

What’s on the Table?

This fantastic proposal suggests that teams could see a boost in their regular-season games, growing from the current 20 games to a whopping 24! That’s a 20% increase that could make a big difference in how schools schedule their games this spring.

What’s Next?

So, when can we expect a decision? The MSHSL board discussed this proposal during their last meeting, and they’re set to vote on it during their next gathering on October 2. Mark your calendars, because this could transform the landscape of high school sports across the state!

How Will It Work?

If approved, teams will have some intriguing new options for how to structure their seasons. Instead of treating every tournament or doubleheader as separate games, these events could count as just *one playing date*. That means if you’ve got a flashy Friday-Saturday tournament lined up, it could only count as a single day of action. And, teams will be allowed to join a maximum of two in-season tournaments each year, which adds an exciting twist to the competition!

Comparisons with Other States

For those wondering how Minnesota stacks up against neighboring states, here’s an eye-opener! High school teams in Iowa can play up to 40 regular-season games, while North Dakota teams enjoy 36 games and Illinois teams have 35. Wisconsin teams play 26. With the proposed changes, Minnesota could finally offer its athletes a chance to compete a bit closer to their peers out there.

Strong Support from Coaches

84% of baseball coaches and 83% of softball coaches in favor of the proposal. As you can guess, this change is especially timely, considering the unpredictable spring weather that often messes with schedules. Let’s face it, Minnesota’s weather can be a real wildcard!

What Else is Going on at MSHSL?

But the fun doesn’t end there! The latest board meeting also saw the approval of expanding the use of instant replay in football. This will allow video reviews at the end of the first half, which is a huge win for all fans who want to see fair play and accurate calls on the field. The MSHSL has been a pioneer in utilizing technology, first implementing video replays in ice hockey, basketball, and football back in 2017.

Looking Ahead

Additionally, the board has set a budget of approximately $12 million for the upcoming school year of 2025-26. That’s quite significant, right? It shows a continued commitment to supporting high school sports and activities across Minnesota.

The MSHSL also took a moment to recognize John Millea, a retired sportswriter, for his incredible contributions over 15 years. It’s always nice to acknowledge those who have put in the hard work behind the scenes to support our athletes.

Final Thoughts

With all these potential changes, it looks like high school baseball and softball in Minnesota is in for an exhilarating ride! Whether you’re a player, coach, or just a fan rooting from the stands, these developments promise an action-packed season ahead. Let’s keep our fingers crossed that the vote goes through and this proposal gains the green light!

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