Advancing to the Class 6A football playoffs is likely to become more difficult for Lawrence High and Free State High in 2010 and 2011.

In district pairings announced this week by the Kansas State High School Activities Association, the Lions and Firebirds will be lumped with Olathe North and Olathe Northwest during the next two seasons.

Olathe Northwest has been in the district with LHS and FSHS for the last two years, but Olathe North, a perennial state power, replaces Leavenworth, annually a Sunflower League doormat.

Under the current formula, two teams from each district advance to postseason play based on head-to-head competition.