Purpose of the Study Since 1977 the Virginia High School League (VHSL) has been the subject of reports, legislative agendas and resolutions introduced in the General Assembly. These documents raised several questions concerning the authority, structure and performance of the VHSL. The purpose of this study was to answer the following primary questions: 1. What is the legal source and basis of the VHSL's authority? 2. Who governs the VHSL? 3. Does the VHSL provide adequate due process? 4. What is the source of any dissatisfaction that may exist and how can such dissatisfaction be abated? Design of the Study The study consisted of two phases. The first involved the research and analysis of state statutes and case law related to the administration of interscholastic athletics, and a review of the handbooks of selected state athletic associations. The second phase was the design, construction and implementation of a survey to determine and compare the opinions of a sample of principals, local superintendents, local school board chairmen and legislators concerning the authority, governance and performance of the VHSL. The data were analyzed using the cross-tabs and frequencies commands available on SPSS-X. Conclusions 1. Based upon their implied authority to implement rules and regulations necessary to supervise the schools within their jurisdictionL . local school boards have delegated the administration of interscholastic athletics to the VHSL. 2. The VHSL is governed by the principals of the member schools, but avenues of participation do exist for local school boards, the state department of education and others. 3. The due process provided by the VHSL satisfies any requirement that may exist . concerning the provision of either substantive or procedural due process. 4. The respondents were satisfied with the performance of the VHSL, but authority and power was a source of dissatisfaction. Most high school principals believe the VHSL should be able to pass regulations binding upon local school boards, but the remainder of respondents disagreed. Most local school board chairmen believe they have no input into the formulation of VHSL policy, but believe they should be actively involved in the governance of the VHSL. Principals disagreed and stated th~t local school boards should have an advisory role. 5. If the dissatisfaction of local school board members is not abated, the VHSL will be made accountable to local school boards by the concerted action of the local school boards or the General Assembly. The VHSL could reduce existing dissatisfaction by increasing the participation of local school boards in the governance of the VHSL within the existing structure of the VHSL. Most respondents did not favor the intervention of state agencies. / Ed. D.