How to Register for Middle School Sports in Harnett and Wake County (2025–2026)
If your child is planning to play middle school sports this school year, it’s important to complete the correct registration process as early as possible. Both Harnett County Schools and Wake County Public Schools (WCPSS) use online systems for athletics registration — but each county uses a different platform with different requirements.
This guide breaks down what parents need to do in each district to make sure their student-athlete is eligible for tryouts, practices, and games. Please note: these requirements change periodically. It is best to double check with your specific school to ensure all steps are completed. This is an excellent way to get started.
Registration Overview: Harnett County vs. Wake County
| Harnett County (Aktivate) | Wake County (DragonFlyMax) | |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Platform | Aktivate | DragonFlyMax (WakeCountyAthletics.com) |
| Forms & Uploads | Physicals, waivers, emergency contacts via Aktivate | Physical form, medical, concussion, participation via DragonFly |
| Physical Validity | Dependent on Harnett County rules | Valid for 395 days from exam date |
| Grade Levels Eligible | Typically 6th–8th | Only 7th & 8th; 6th-grade ineligible |
| Extra Steps | N/A | Some schools need additional “Ticket to Play” form |
| Clearance Process | Completed through Aktivate | DragonFly shows green checks; confirmation emails sent |
Harnett County Schools: How to Register
To register a student-athlete in Harnett County, parents must use Aktivate:
Visit www.aktivate.com
Create an account (or log in)
Select your school and complete your athlete’s profile
Upload a current sports physical (get the form here)
Sign all necessary documents and waivers
Wait for clearance confirmation in the system
When to Register:
It’s best to register well before tryouts begin. Each sport has different start dates, so check with your child’s school for deadlines.
Wake County Schools (WCPSS): How to Register
Students in Wake County register through DragonFly Max, accessed via Wake County Athletics:
Choose your child’s middle school
Follow the links to create a DragonFly Max account
Upload required documents, including:
Completed WCPSS pre-participation physical form
Medical history
Parent/guardian permissions
Concussion awareness form
Some schools may also require a “Ticket to Play” form through Google Forms — check with your school.
Reminder: Only 7th and 8th graders may participate in athletics in Wake County Schools.
Final Tips for Parents
Start early: Give yourself time to book physical exams and collect documentation
Double-check school-specific requirements through their website and Athletic Department
Don’t wait until the week of tryouts to register — students cannot try out without being cleared
If you're a parent in Harnett or Wake County and want to make sure your child is ready for middle school sports this year, bookmark this page and share it with other families in your community!
Good Luck with tryouts this upcoming school year!
