C.E. Jordan, Mallard Creek Share 8A Track State Title

C.E. Jordan High School and Mallard Creek High School will share the 2026 8A Men's Track and Field State Championship title after the Independent Interscholastic Athletic Appeals Board vacated a disqualification in the 4×400 relay. The North Carolina High School Athletic Association Board of Directors voted Tuesday to declare both schools co-champions.

The board also named Mallard Creek and Hough High School co-champions in the men's 4×400-meter relay event.

NCHSAA Commissioner Que Tucker said the association recognizes the situation affected student-athletes, coaches, schools, and communities. "At the center of this matter are young people who have invested countless hours into their sport and their team," Tucker said.

Mallard Creek challenged the original disqualification through the appeals process, which state law and NCHSAA policy allow for officiating decisions resulting in disqualification or suspension.