Initially, games will be limited to varsity teams only and all games will be played during the sports regular season dates, with potential for expansion to other sports/levels. Each school will be responsible for its own expenses and will be able to retain all revenues generated from the event such as ticket sales, concessions, etc. The additional game will serve as a regular-season contest and will be counted in the RPI, team record, etc.

Schools will be required to sign up prior to the season start for the right to play this additional game and with fees, tiered based on sport and classification, to be paid at year’s end. The Association is working to form a Foundation which will allow the Association and its membership to engage with a wider range of donors for increased financial stability. Initially the funds from the Foundation Games will help the Association offset foundation costs within its budget and will ultimately go to funding the Foundation, directly impacting member schools and students in the form of grants, scholarships, and insurance costs.

“This is really a win-win for the WIAA and the member schools, using a very similar model to what other State Associations have had in place for quite some time,” said WIAA Executive Director Mick Hoffman. “Coaches and players will have the flexibility to schedule and play in an extra contest while proceeds from the rights fees will help fund Association costs that directly support student-athletes.”

The Foundation Games online sign-up form will be available mid-summer for athletic directors and district athletic directors.