WPIAL high school football season begins in Week 1

The 2026 WPIAL high school football season is commencing with a shift in scheduling. Following a decade of the PIAA offering a ‘Week Zero’ option for early games or scrimmages, the WPIAL is moving to a standard Week 1 start for nearly all district schools.

Defending champions across various classes are set to begin their campaigns, including Central Catholic (6A), Peters Township (5A), Aliquippa (3A), Avonworth (3A), Seton LaSalle (2A), and Clairton (A).

One notable nonconference matchup features Class 5A North Hills against Class 6A No. 2 North Allegheny. North Hills enters the season with renewed optimism under coach Eric Kasperowicz, while North Allegheny faces high expectations following their previous championship appearance.