In December, the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) released its finalized football districts for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 seasons, bringing significant change to two Hernando County teams. Springstead High School is the most impacted, being moved from Class 5A to Class 4A due to a change in the student enrollment range for Class 4A from 1,822 to 1,899 students. The Eagles, who finished 4-5 in 2025, will now be in District 4A-8 along with Pasco County schools Fivay, Gulf, Hudson, Pasco, River Ridge, and Zephyrhills.
Previously, Springstead was in District 5A-7 with Cypress Creek, Gaither, and Wesley Chapel. According to Springstead head coach Mike Garofano, the initial realignment would have placed his team in a district with schools to the north, including Ocala, Gainesville, Lecanto, Leesburg, and Mount Dora. Garofano petitioned to move to the Pasco County district, citing proximity and easier travel. He noted that the new district is an improvement, especially with Gaither no longer in it. However, the Eagles will now face Zephyrhills, which beat them 46-0 in last year’s opener. Springstead did beat Zephyrhills 16-13 in 2024.
Originally reported by Hernando Sun
Sources: Hernando Sun
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