The King's Academy football field, reflecting the cancellation of the 2025 season.
The King’s Academy has announced its decision to forgo participation in the upcoming high school football season. Citing a need for development, the school emphasizes this is a strategic pause rather than a permanent withdrawal. Athletic Director Matt Crowder highlighted plans to focus on growth and skills development among student-athletes. The cancellation primarily impacts the varsity team, marking it as the second school in the TSSAA’s Division II-A East to make a similar announcement. The school aims to reintegrate varsity football by the following season.
The King’s Academy (TKA) announced on July 25 that it will not participate in the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association’s (TSSAA) football schedule for the 2025 season. The decision was confirmed through an email sent to families of students and athletes affiliated with the school.
The cancellation primarily impacts TKA’s varsity football team, marking it as the second school in the TSSAA’s Division II-A East Region to opt out of the upcoming season. The Webb School from Bell Buckle had previously announced a similar decision. While the specific reasons behind the cancellation remain undisclosed, school officials emphasized that this choice does not signify a permanent withdrawal from football but rather a strategic pause for development.
Interim Athletic Director Matt Crowder clarified that the school’s intention is to use this period to prepare for a stronger return in future seasons. He highlighted ongoing efforts to foster growth and learning among student-athletes, viewing this break as a part of a broader developmental process. The school is emphasizing the importance of fostering skills and character in student-athletes at all levels, particularly through its expanding middle school football program.
In addition to focusing on lower levels of competition, TKA is investing in current players through structured workouts and personalized athletic development plans. This approach aims to build a robust foundation for the program’s future resurgence. The school’s middle school football program has been growing annually, which supports the school’s long-term plan to return to varsity competition by the 2026-2027 season.
Historically, TKA’s football team has experienced both success and challenges. The program’s most successful period began with the appointment of former coach and athletic director Jonathan Sellers in 2018. Under his leadership, the team secured three winning seasons and advanced to the playoffs six times, reaching the quarterfinals on two occasions.
However, recent performances have declined sharply. The football team has compiled a record of 6 wins and 26 losses since 2022. The 2023 season was particularly difficult, with the team ending without a win. This recent downturn, combined with the resignation of Jonathan Sellers on June 16, 2023, and the departure of another coach, has contributed to the decision to pause varsity football activities.
The interim head of school, Kelly Sullivan-Conatser, described the current situation as an opportunity for holistic growth within the school community. She expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing the school’s commitment to strengthening its educational and extracurricular programs beyond football. In place of the usual game schedule, TKA plans to organize community events to maintain engagement and foster school spirit during this period.
While the traditional schedule has been canceled, a full schedule of activities for 2025 was initially prepared, including a notable rivalry game against Webb-Bell Buckle scheduled for October 31. The school intends to fill the void left by the canceled games with community-oriented events, promoting school unity and supporting student development in the absence of regular competition.
Overall, The King’s Academy’s decision to cancel the 2025 football season reflects a strategic move towards long-term growth and program rebuilding. The school remains committed to athlete development, with plans to reintroduce varsity football in future years as the program continues to evolve at the middle school and developmental levels.
Washington, D.C., August 26, 2025 News Summary In Washington, D.C., anxiety is rising among parents and…
Washington D.C., August 26, 2025 News Summary As the new school year approaches, families in Washington,…
Washington D.C., August 26, 2025 News Summary As the new school year approaches, families and teachers…
Washington, D.C., August 26, 2025 News Summary As the school year begins in Washington, D.C., Mayor…
News Summary Vestavia Hills has committed over $30 million for new construction and infrastructure at…
News Summary Bellefonte is on track to build a state-of-the-art elementary school with a budget…