The only possible immediate solution to this problem is for the "traditional" 1A schools to leave the NCHSAA and form their own Association. The Western North Carolina High School Activities Association (WNCHSAA) operated from 1929-1977 and ultimately dissolved and the schools became part of the NCHSAA. I think it's time that "traditional" 1A school administrators start looking at going back to their own Association in an effort to create a more even playing field in 1A sports. This problem is just getting worse year after year and the NCHSAA and NC General Assembly couldn't care less. The time to act is now and I urge each and every concerned fan of 1A athletics to contact their local coaches, athletic director, central office, and school board. Strength lies in numbers, and if there is enough momentum and support I honestly believe that it can be done. I have heard that a few SMC schools have seriously considered this option. It has been done before and it can be done again!
Excerpt from the NCHSAA website about the WNCHSAA (full link below):
Western North Carolina High School Activities Association
The Western North Carolina High School Activities Association was founded on December 10, 1929. Charter members included Belmont, Concord, Kings Mountain, Lexington, Lincolnton, Monroe, Newton, Mooresville, Black Mountain, Cliffside, Hickory, Lenoir, Marion, Morganton, and Rutherfordton-Spindale. The WNCHSAA grew to 42 members in four conferences before it was dissolved in June of 1977 and its members joined the NCHSAA.
Only three of the 42 members failed to win a Western title in some sport during the WNCHSAA’s existence. W.C. Clary served for many years as executive director of the organization.
From 1930-1953, the WNCHSAA had two conferences, South Piedmont and Western, and later there were four conferences. Playoffs were held in a number of sports, including football, men's and women's basketball, baseball, wrestling, track and field and other sports.
Western North Carolina High School Activities Association
