RIIL to offer first-ever middle school sports opportunities this fall

WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) – The Rhode Island Interscholastic League (RIIL) announced on Wednesday that it will be offering middle school sports opportunities for the first time ever.

The RIIL says it will be accepting any Rhode Island middle schools that voluntarily wish to become members starting in fall of 2024.

“I am thrilled to announce a significant development in our organization that will undoubtedly enhance the overall educational experience for middle school students in Rhode Island,” said RIIL Executive Director Michael Lunney.

Lunney says the decision stems from discussions over the past few years between the RIIL and Rhode Island’s Principal Committee on Athletics (RIPCOA).

RIPCOA is the current provider of middle school sports and has made the decision to stop their offerings at the conclusion of the 2023-24 school year, according to Lunney.

The RIIL plans to host an open house informational meeting to provide an opportunity for administrators to learn more about its middle school sports initiative.

The meeting will be on Wednesday, Feb. 28 at 4 p.m. at the RIIL office on Centerville Road in Warwick.