CHARLOTTESVILLE (September 23, 2026) – Lebanon’s move to the Hogoheegee District was approved, and Marion’s request to move down was denied. The 38-member Virginia High School League’s executive committee made the final decision during a meeting on Wednesday.
If their enrollment decreases, Marion can re-appeal their placement after two years. Marion’s current enrollment is 352, nine above the Class 1 cutoff of 343.
Grayson County’s appeal was approved to move down to Class 1, Region C, in the Mountain Empire District.
The new VHSL format will be implemented starting in fall 2027 and will stay in place until the 2030-31 school year.
Lebanon will switch to a Hogoheegee District schedule in all sports except football.
The Pioneers will continue to play Hogoheegee District teams Honaker, Rural Retreat, and Patrick Henry on the gridiron. Holston, Rural Retreat, and Northwood had already completed their schedules before the Lebanon move was official.
Hogoheegee District
Chilhowie
Patrick Henry
Holston
Honaker
Lebanon
Northwood
Rural Retreat
Cumberland Distrixt
J.I. Burton
Castlewood
Eastside
Rye Cove
Twin Springs
Thomas Walker
