District Leaving GC8 Athletic Conference
Posted on 02/21/2025
After much discussion, thoughtful consideration, and multiple meetings with high school principals, athletic directors, coaches, and district staff, Citrus County Schools has decided to leave the GC8 conference at the end of the 2024-2025 school year.
The GC8 was created in 2019 at the onset of COVID and after the FHSAA mandated that teams did not have to play district opponents. During COVID, GC8 played a pivotal role in providing a structured and protective competition environment, allowing our student-athletes to return to competition safely.
However, as we moved beyond that period, the necessity of the conference structure has evolved. The FHSAA has expanded postseason opportunities in multiple sports, which has impacted the role and relevance of conference championships. As a result, Citrus County Schools made this decision to continue to adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of athletic competition.
This decision does not impact FHSAA district alignments nor student opportunities for district and state recognition.
Citrus County truly values our relationship with Hernando County Schools and looks forward to continued rivalries on the field, gym, and courts.