State tournament reimbursements to schools on the decline

Money reimbursed to schools participating in Minnesota State High School League state tournaments rose steadily through 2008-09 before declining and dropping off considerably last year. The league, citing rising expenses and declining ticket revenue, has warned that refunds are unlikely for schools participating in state tournaments in the 2014-15 school year. Note: The number of schools receiving money expanded for a two-year stretch when the league also issued refunds of activity registration fees.

YearSchools participatingTotal amount returnedAverage per school

2004-05364$671,022$1,843

2005-06365$600,689$1,645

2006-07360$692,930$1,925

2007-08365$870,259$2,384

2008-09487$1,084,736$2,227

2010-11359$625,388$1,742

2011-12369$693,679$1,880

2012-13373$712,450$1,910

2013-14377$244,964$650