The MIAA announced on Monday that Gillette Stadium will not host any of the football state championships this year.
The New England Patriots’ home field has been the site of the state championship games since 2007.
“Whereas the 2026 MIAA Football Tournament begins this week, we will work diligently to secure host sites that provide the best possible championship experience for our student athletes and our school communities,”the MIAA said in a media release.
A spokesperson from Gillette Stadium cited scheduling conflicts with the New England Revolution’s upcoming playoff schedule as well as a Patriots home game on Dec. 6 as the reason for the decision.
Three local football squads secure MIAA tournament berths
The South Hadley, Easthampton and Belchertown football teams will compete for a state championship after all three qualified for the MIAA tournament.
In Div. 7, South Hadley slotted in at No. 10 and will travel to No. 7 Rockland on Thursday, Nov. 5.
Easthampton grabbed the No. 14 spot and will face No. 3 Saint Bernard’s on Friday, Nov. 6.
In Div. 6, Belchertown was the final team to qualify, picking up the No. 16 seed, and the Orioles will take on top-seeded Norwell on Friday.
Friday High School Results
Girls volleyball
Old Colony 3, Smith Voc 0 — The Vikings fell in the semifinal round of the MVDA small school state tournament on Saturday.
Set scores were 20-25, 9-25 and 19-25.
Field hockey
Northampton 1, Palmer 0
Northampton 2, Mahar 1 — The Blue Devils picked up two wins to close out their 2026 season on a high note.
Ruthie Frankl and Ella Nykorchuk (both games) counted as Northampton’s goalscorers, while goalie Abby Xu totaled nine saves across the two games.
Boys soccer
Hampshire 2, Minnechaug 0 — The Raiders shut out the Falcons in a consolation matchup on Friday.
William Warren and Jack Cameron scored while goalies Isaiah Isa and Max Johnson combined for the win.
