What has transpired since we last convened? There is, naturally, the state’s new transfer rule. Look, we’ve always had transfers — they’re just going to exist at a greater speed (and, probably, at a larger volume) in our new reality. They’ll be a significant part of the 2026 landscape, and they’ll surely be part of the discussion throughout the remainder of the summer and into the fall. The other major change is the new realignment and classification of schools, and it’s as unique an approach as the New Mexico Activities Association has attempted. As a precursor, let’s acknowledge that there is no realignment plan that has ever found 100% affirmation with the organization’s member schools. I’ve been at this a while, and seen plenty of realignment iterations, and there hasn’t been one yet with universal acclaim. There is always some grumbling. New Mexico’s expansive ge…

Artesia and Roswell rule the roost there. Those two have met in each of the last three state championship games. The Bulldogs are chasing their 34th title this year. There has been similar filtering down in the other classes. Lovington, Belen, Valley, Santa Teresa and Rio Grande were 5A, but those are all 4A programs for the next two seasons. The 4A division should be compelling. Pius, the runner-to Bloomfield in each of the last two years, is here and once again chasing a blue trophy. The addition of Lovington is going to be a challenge for everyone in this class, including Bloomfield. Moriarty isn’t 4A anymore.