By Michael Adams
madams@onthesidelinessports.com

The University Interscholastic League appeals committee on Tuesday denied a request by the Smithville Independent School District to change football districts for the 2024 and 2025 seasons.

When the UIL announced its biannual realignment on Feb. 1, Smithville was placed n District 14-4A-Division II with Wimberley, Lago Vista, Salado, Jarrell, Gonzalez and Geronimo Navarro.

Smithville was one of seven school districts appealing their district placement.

Lufkin, Angleton and Houston Spring Woods won their appeals, while Victoria West, San Antonio Harlandale, San Antonio McCollum and Smithville had their appeals denied.

Smithville based its appeal on travel.

In District 14-4A-II, the average trip for Smithville is going to be 72.4 miles, with the longest trip being 80 miles to Salado.

A move to District 11-4A-II would have shortened travel for the Tigers football team significantly. The average trip in 11-4A-II would be 58.5 miles for Smithville. The furthest trip would be to Madisonville, which is 112 miles from Smithville.

However, the UIL didn’t feel the travel difference was great enough to warrant a move and force teams in 14-4A-II to scramble to find another non-district opponent.

Traditionally, Smithville has been in a district with longtime rivals La Grange and Giddings. This is the first time in more than 30 years – the furthest records go that were available – that Smithville was not placed in a football district with La Grange and Giddings. The three schools are only separated by 20 miles each way.

Smithville ISD did not appeal their placement for other sports, which is 22-4A and does include La Grange and Giddings, along with Caldwell, Bellville and Navasota.