It has come to our attention that programs are struggling with the classification of athletes. It is very important all athletes are properly classified. To this end please be sure you follow these guidelines:
If your athlete attended a traditional public or private school between K-8 then they should be classified with respect to the grade at which the athlete attended the school. To classify an athlete using the “traditional school method” the school must have been an accredited entity with the state of Texas (so Co-ops and micro schools do not count).
If an athlete is currently homeschooled then you need to follow these guidelines for the 2023-2024 season.
If an athlete starts playing any varsity sport at any age then they may only play 4 consecutive years. Exemptions to play younger players are rarely granted and must be given before the player starts playing varsity sports.
If your athletes did not obtain an age exemption before they became a varsity athlete they CAN NOT apply for an exemption after the fact. For example, if an athlete turned 14 years old before the season and did not apply for an exemption, the athlete would be classified as a Sophomore when entering play the following year.
If your athletes did not obtain an age exemption before they became a varsity athlete they CAN NOT apply for an exemption after the fact. For example, if an athlete turned 14 years old before the season and did not apply for an exemption, the athlete would be classified as a Sophomore when entering play the following year.
Penalties for noncompliance have consistently been forfeits of games and the inability to participate in post season play.
Finally, it has come to our attention that some teams are not listing all their high school age eligible athletes on their varsity rosters. If your athletes are high school age (born after May 31, 2008) and have not received an exemption to play in junior high. Then not reporting them will result in the ability to participate in post season play. You must report all athletes regardless of what level of team (Freshman, JV, etc) they play on.
If you have any questions, please direct them to Brent Golemon on the Steering Committee. He can be reached at bgolemon@gmail.com
Finalized Roster for High School are due in Max Preps four weeks before the TAIAO meet. Middle school does not submit rosters in Max preps. Both High School and Middle School are required to submit DOB rosters to TAIAO. A roster form is available online