The excitement of high school football is building once again as the South Dakota High School Activities Association (SDHSAA) has officially released the 2026 football schedules for all classes. In South Dakota, football is not just a sport; it’s a cultural event that brings communities together, fostering local pride and showcasing the talent and dedication of its youth.
Set to energize fans across the state, the regular season for 11-player teams will kick off on August 28, 2026. Meanwhile, those opting for the 9-player format will see their season commence a week earlier on August 21, 2026. These schedules are vital for students, parents, and fans alike, charting the path of local heroes on their quest for statewide glory.
View 11-player schedules and 9-player schedules on the SDHSAA website.
In Sioux Falls, anticipation is especially high with several key matchups set to take place. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most talked-about local teams and their initial games.
South Dakota High School Activities Association
Sioux Falls Jefferson: A Season with Great Expectations
The Sioux Falls Jefferson Cavaliers have been preparing confidently for the upcoming season. Their first game, a much-anticipated clash against Harrisburg on August 28, 2026, promises to be a thrilling start. Jefferson will be looking to leverage their strategic plays and robust physical training to gain the upper hand.
- Aug. 28: at Harrisburg
- Sept. 4: vs. Rapid City Stevens
- Sept. 11: vs. Sioux Falls Lincoln
- Sept. 18: at Brandon Valley
- Oct. 22: at Sioux Falls Washington
Brandon Valley: On the Road to Success
Brandon Valley Lynx will embark on their 2026 journey with an away game on August 28 at Bellevue West in Omaha. Known for their resilience and tactical prowess, Brandon Valley is set to make significant strides this season, buoyed by the strong support of the local community.
Sioux Falls Lincoln
Sioux Falls Lincoln: Ready for Challenges
Sioux Falls Lincoln will face off against rivals O’Gorman in their season opener. This game, set for August 28, 2026, is steeped in tradition and has all the makings of a classic encounter. Lincoln’s adherence to discipline and strategy will be tested against O’Gorman’s competitive spirit.
- Aug. 28: vs. O’Gorman
- Sept. 11: at Sioux Falls Jefferson
- Sept. 18: vs. Rapid City Central
- Sept. 25: vs. Omaha Central
- Oct. 22: vs. Harrisburg
Sioux Falls Roosevelt: The Call of the Game
Starting their campaign against Rapid City Stevens on August 28, 2026, the Sioux Falls Roosevelt team is poised to deliver impressive performances on the field. Their schedule includes several pivotal matchups, where each outcome will be crucial in defining their season’s trajectory.
- Aug. 28: at Rapid City Stevens
- Sept. 4: vs. Sioux Falls Lincoln
- Oct. 22: at Brandon Valley
Sioux Falls Lutheran 9-Player Team: Small Team, Big Dreams
While the 11-player teams dominate the headlines, the 9-player teams are equally captivating. Sioux Falls Lutheran will debut their season on August 21 at Centerville. This format highlights agility and teamwork, promising an intense and fast-paced football experience.
- Aug. 21: at Centerville
- Sept. 4: vs. Platte-Geddes
- Oct. 16: vs. Garretson
The passion and dedication evident in South Dakota’s high school football leagues reflect the state’s enduring love for sports and community spirit. As the teams gear up for the new season, fans from all corners of South Dakota are proving once again that they are the heartbeat of these electrifying events. Stay tuned to the SDHSAA website for updates on game times and locations.