The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) has announced a new home for one of its premier postseason events, as Guilford High School in Rockford will host the IHSA Boys Soccer State Finals beginning in the fall of 2026.
The decision was made during the IHSA Board of Directors’ regularly scheduled meeting on March 14, 2026, held at the I Hotel in Champaign. The agreement will bring the state finals to Guilford’s Swanson Stadium for three consecutive years — 2026, 2027, and 2028 — marking the 14th venue in the event’s history.
IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson expressed enthusiasm about the move, highlighting Rockford’s reputation for hosting high-level events and the strong partnership with Rockford Public Schools District 205 and GoRockford.
Guilford Athletic Director Grant Mason also emphasized the opportunity to showcase the state’s top talent, noting that the event will bring teams, coaches, and fans from across Illinois to the campus for a championship-level experience.
Swanson Stadium, originally constructed in 1969, seats approximately 4,000 fans and has undergone recent upgrades, including a renovated press box and new west-side bleachers installed in 2025. The improvements position the venue to handle the scale and atmosphere of a state championship event.
Rockford continues to build its reputation as a sports destination, with Lindsay Arellano noting that hosting the soccer finals further strengthens the city’s standing in sports tourism and reflects continued confidence in the community’s ability to deliver top-tier events.
The IHSA Boys Soccer State Series dates back to 1972, when the inaugural finals were held at Hancock Stadium in Normal. Over the years, the tournament has rotated across multiple sites, with notable long-term hosts including North Central College from 2000 to 2013 and Hoffman Estates High School from 2014 through 2025.
Rockford has also been home to other IHSA state events, including the IHSA Girls Bowling State Finals, which have been held at the The Cherry Bowl for more than 30 years in partnership with GoRockford.
With a new venue, upgraded facilities, and a strong local partnership, the IHSA Boys Soccer State Finals are set to begin a new chapter in Rockford starting in 2026.