New conference set to begin play

HARTINGTON — After several months of planning, a new activities conference is set to take the stage.

The league is set to begin with the start of the 2024-2025 school year.

The newly named Greater Northeast Activities Conference will feature eight area schools — Elkhorn Valley, Hartington-Newcastle, Laurel-Concord-Coleridge, Lutheran High Northeast, Neligh-Oakdale, Plainview, Summerland, and West Holt.

“The decision to establish the GNAC comes as a testament to the shared commitment of these schools to enhance student opportunities and elevate the level of competition in the region,” said Hartington-Newcastle Principal Corey Uldrich.

By joining forces, the member schools aim to create a dynamic platform that fosters athletic excellence, academic achievement, and personal growth among students, he said.

While the formation of the GNAC represents a new chapter in Northeast Nebraska’s high school sports landscape, it was not a decision taken lightly.

Departing from the Lewis and Clark Conference and Niobrara Valley Conference was a difficult choice, reflective of the dedication these schools have toward providing the best possible experiences for their student-athletes.

As the GNAC takes shape, the member schools are excited about the prospects of expanding their offerings and providing even more avenues for student involvement and achievement. Through a diverse range of athletic competitions, academic events, and extracurricular activities, the GNAC aims to empower students to reach their full potential and make lasting contributions to their communities.

The Greater Northeast Activities Conference is poised to compete at high levels in athletics and activities, serving as a source of pride for the communities it represents.

The member schools eagerly anticipate the inaugural season of the GNAC and the countless opportunities it will provide for their students.