[EKUAlum05]

Mercer County was a 5A school playing in 2A. The year after the state championship they went to 5A for a couple of years before landing into 4A.

Still feel bad for Russell that year.

They were clearly the best 2A team in the State and Mercer had no business playing in 2A. They did not even have a true school that year...they were using the old Mercer County High School and cramming everyone in.

I actually spoke to some of the Mercer County administration at the start of that school year and it was pretty clear that the consolidation was a "had to happen right now" moment so they could take advantage of a special team while they had a window to have an advantage.

South Warren has been handed a gift by the KHSAA in 3A, but in their defense they at least were a true functioning consolidated school. South Warren is simply playing the hand they were dealt. Mercer in my mind abused the system to capitalize and win a title that Russell rightfully deserved.