SPEARFISH, S.D. — The Black Hills Conference will split into two divisions for basketball and volleyball championship competition starting with the 2026-27 school year, the conference announced Oct. 19.
The 11-school conference said the new format is meant to give member schools more scheduling flexibility, better meet their needs and protect the long-standing rivalries and traditions that have defined the league.
Under the new alignment, Spearfish will compete in the Rushmore Division with Douglas, Rapid City Christian, St. Thomas More and Sturgis.
The Crazy Horse Division will include Belle Fourche, Custer, Hill City, Hot Springs, Lead-Deadwood and Mahpiya Luta.
Each school is required to play every team in its own division at least once during the regular season. Teams may still schedule opponents from the other division, but those games will not count toward divisional standings.
At the end of the regular season, the BHC will crown a divisional champion in both basketball and volleyball for each division.
According to the conference, basing standings on in-division games creates a clear path to a divisional title while easing the scheduling demands facing member schools. The format also leaves room for cross-division matchups, allowing traditional rivals in opposite divisions to keep meeting on the court.
The BHC said it remains committed to offering meaningful competition and positive experiences for student-athletes while honoring the traditions that make the conference unique.
Questions about the new format can be directed to Dalton Wademan, Spearfish activities director and Black Hills Conference president, at dwademan@spearfish.k12.sd.us.