Anonymous wrote:I don't understand why Lewis and the other really weak FCPS teams aren't allowed to compete in a lower division.
The VHSL divisions are based on the enrollments and Lewis still has an enrollment larger than most schools in VA. At one point Lewis and TJ were in a lower division (Class 5 vs. Class 6) but they got bumped up to Class 6. That will run at least through 2026-27, although there's been some question as to whether FCPS will pull out of VHSL.
Typically, when FCPS schools are at risk of being sent to a lower division, they appeal to VHSL so they won't have to travel longer distances. VHSL was going to relegate Langley to Class 5 a few years ago and they succesfully appealed to stay in Class 6.
Lewis does play in the district that is generally the weakest sports division in NoVa (National District), although Hayfield is also in that district and is a strong team.