HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — Four new sports programs are coming to all Cabell County middle schools starting next year.
The Cabell County Board of Education approved the addition of middle school baseball, softball, boys’ soccer, and girls’ soccer starting in 2027 during its Tuesday meeting. Baseball and softball launch in Spring 2027, while boys’ and girls’ soccer begin next fall. Those programs will be added to all Cabell County middle schools.
Those sports bring Cabell County’s athletics opportunities to 12, joining cheerleading, cross country, football, tennis, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, golf, and track.
“Every student deserves the opportunity to discover their strengths and feel connected to their school,” Cabell County Superintendent Keith Thomas said. “Expanding middle school athletics will help us increase student engagement, improve school attendance, strengthen school pride, and provide positive experiences that encourage lifelong healthy habits.”
Cabell County Board of Education President Josh Pauley noted that more middle school opportunities will pay off in high school.
“This initiative is designed to support our already exceptional high school programs by increasing their long-term impact and offering students more chances to develop their skills throughout their middle school years,” Pauley said. “We truly appreciate those in the Cabell County community who, over the last several years, have expressed their belief that these programs were needed in our schools.”
Tryouts for the teams will take place ahead of each new program’s launch.
Cabell County Schools said youth who want to join these new programs can complete a registration survey online.