The South Dakota high school football championships will invade the Dakota Dome in Vermillion on November 12-14. Three months ago, it was unclear if there would even be a high school sports season - but now plans are being finalized for seven state football title games.
Boys golf, girls tennis, cross country and cheer/dance have already held their championship events this fall, which, again, is a big deal. This past week, the South Dakota High School Activities Association finalized their schedule for high school football's biggest stage in the Mt. Rushmore State. All games are according to the central time zone.
Thursday November 12
11 am - 9AA Championship
3 pm - 9B Championship
7 pm - 9A Championship
Friday November 13
2 pm - 11B Championship
7 pm - 11AA Championship
Saturday November 14
2 pm - 11A Championship
7 pm - 11AAA Championship
We're still in a pandemic, which means those planning to attend the high school football championships will need to know a few things. For instance, the maximum amount of tickets a person is going to be able to purchase is eight, and all ticket sales will be handled by the University of South Dakota.
"After qualifying for the finals, schools will receive an “access code” that will allow their selected patrons to pre‐purchase tickets as the schools see fit," explained SDHSAA assistant Executive Director Dr. John Krogstrand. "Each team will be afforded a “reserved” seating area as well as a “student” area."
USD and the SDHSAA will also require all fans to wear a mask, or else they won't be allowed entry for the event.
The semifinal round of the high school football playoffs will take place this coming Friday, November 6th with all winners punching their ticket to the Dakota Dome.
All seven games will air live on SDPB1-TV and be streamed live online at sdpb.org/football.