Historical Overview
The Sac-Joaquin Section was created as a result of the division of the old Northern Section of the CIF into two sections; the Northern Section and the Sac-Joaquin Section. Agitation for the formation of the new section was started by the principals of the old Central High School Athletic League in 1941. The principals felt that the Northern Section, as then constituted, was too large for efficient operation. By agreeement with the State Federated Council of the CIF and the Board of Managers of the Northern Section, the Sac-Joaquin Section was organized in March 1942 and started to function in September 1942. The Section represents 174 high schools and junior high schools, having a total enrollment of over 200,000 students. Two commissioners of officials control the assignment of all athletic officials. The Section is a member of the California Interscholastic Federation, which is a member of the National Federation of State High School Associations. The CIF Sac-Joaquin Section has had only 3 commissioners: James Cave, 1942-1968; Clarke C. Coover, 1968-1993; and Peter J. Saco, 1993-present.