The South Dakota High School Activities Association began their annual meetings yesterday in Pierre and began votes on various proposals submitted from membership. Most of the proposals were approved by state Athletic Directors at their annual meetings last month.
The Activities Association Board approved a proposal to add 6 man football next year on a 5-2 vote for the 2019 season. Discussion on 6 man began a few years back, and with the division growing in states such as Nebraska and Texas, momentum had continued in South Dakota. Iroquois is one area school that is interested in the move.
Superintendent and A-D Mike Ruth said last winter that other than potential travel, 6 man is an option
6 man would be open to schools with an ADM of 40 male students or less, and would replace 9B while 9A and AA will remain the same.
The board approved first reading, with second and final reading set for the next meeting scheduled for June. The Activities Association’s Board also approved a state dual wrestling tournament for the 2019-20 season on a 7-0 vote.
The dual tournament would be incorporated into the individual tournament, stretching the event to three days. The board decided not to move ahead next year for dual wrestling since there are still details to be worked out.
Also Dr. Jerry Rasmussen, Superintendent of the Dakota Valley School District and Dr. Paul Turman, Board of Education member from the Pierre School District were elected to five year terms on the Activities Association Board by unanimous ballot.