So I was browsing NAQT's website a few weeks ago and saw that the date of the 2019 SSNCT is set for May 3-5, which is the same weekend as has traditionally been MSHSAA's state championship. Curious as to how NAQT came to this decision, I contacted NAQT by email two weeks ago - and followed up again last week - but haven't heard back. I thought I'd read somewhere (granted, I can't seem to find that statement now) that the date was moved to May in order to accommodate the expected growth in the field next year, but given that nearly 12% of this year's teams came from Missouri (including two that return their top scorers next year as possible title contenders in the public division - not to mention the two highest-scoring players in that division), I was rather befuddled by the decision.

Given the impact that the new SSNCT date could have on the Missouri circuit, I figured the date change warranted discussion here to see if others share the same concerns as I do regarding NAQT's decision - or to see if I'm simply overlooking something that renders this whole discussion moot.

They can't change the date now, as they've signed a contract with the hotel for that date. (I talked to Jeff Hoppes about this)

And yes, they changed the date to accommodate a bigger field.

I emailed NAQT with the same concerns when the date was announced. I got the same response about increased field. Unfortunately, my AD will not let me register for SSNCT even on the possibility of making state.