UIL Approves Home-Field Advantage in First Round of Playoffs

SAN ANGELO, TX — The UIL has approved home-field advantage in the first round of the playoffs for all classifications in nearly every team sport.

On Monday, the UIL moved forward with an in-concept proposal to expand home-field advantage for first-round games in the playoffs in football, basketball, volleyball, soccer and team tennis. This would go into effect for the 2027-2028 school year.

Home-field advantage had been reserved only for 5A and 6A.

This puts more emphasis on winning district for teams, especially in the Concho Valley and West Texas. For example, take District 4-2A Division I, which plays 3-2A. If Sonora were the top seed and drew a fourth-place Sundown team, that is just over a four-hour drive at about 260 miles.

Many coaches have asked for teams to be rewarded for winning district. It could also limit the amount of Thursday and Saturday playoff games in the first round if teams aren't vying for the same neutral sites. There is also the referee shortage to take into consideration.

There could be a mileage marker if distances are long enough that gives districts the option of playing at a neutral site.

The UIL does have quite a bit to talk about, but home-field advantage could be a lifesaver for some schools, especially out here in West Texas.