CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. – Citrus County Schools has announced its decision to withdraw from the Gulf Coast 8 (GC8) athletic conference at the conclusion of the 2024-2025 school year. The decision was made after extensive discussions and meetings involving high school principals, athletic directors, coaches, and district staff.
The GC8 conference was formed in 2019, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and after the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) relaxed mandates requiring teams to play district opponents. The conference provided a structured and controlled environment for competition during the pandemic, enabling student-athletes to return to sports safely.
READ: Citrus County Man Sentenced To 15 Years For Drug Trafficking And Firearms Charges
However, the school district stated that the necessity of the conference structure has evolved as circumstances have changed. The FHSAA has expanded postseason opportunities in several sports, diminishing the role and relevance of conference championships. Citrus County Schools cited this evolving landscape as a key factor in its decision to leave the GC8.
The district clarified that the withdrawal from the GC8 will not affect FHSAA district alignments or students’ opportunities for district and state recognition. The focus is on adapting to the changing dynamics of high school athletics.
READ: Weeki Wachee Man Fatally Struck By Tractor-Trailer In Citrus County
Citrus County Schools emphasized its strong relationship with Hernando County Schools, another member of the GC8.
The district expressed its anticipation of continuing athletic rivalries with Hernando County schools in various sports.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.