Following a thorough internal review of its football program, as well as ongoing communication with the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA), Knoxville Catholic High School determined that a recruiting violation occurred involving a non-faculty assistant football coach, the school announced on July 9.
The violation involved impermissible communication from a coach to a prospective student-athlete via text encouraging him to consider transferring to Knoxville Catholic.
“This violation represents a clear departure from TSSAA regulations and from the standards of accountability and integrity we hold ourselves to as an institution,” the school’s press release stated.
As a result of the violation, KCHS is self-imposing a two-year probationary period for the football program, which will include a one-year postseason ban for the 2026 season.
“While the violation did not involve a member of the school’s faculty or administration, we are not here to assign individual blame. We recognize our responsibility to ensure that every aspect of our athletic program operates fully within both the spirit and letter of TSSAA regulations and in alignment with the values of Knoxville Catholic High School,” the release continued.
“This decision was not made lightly. As a Catholic school, we are committed to integrity, accountability, and the formation of young men and women grounded in character and faith. While we are proud of the many student-athletes, coaches, and families who represent our school with honor, we recognize the importance of addressing concerns directly and responsibly whenever expectations are not fully met.”
KCHS president Dickie Sompayrac stated: “Our role as Catholic educators calls us to uphold the highest standards of honesty, responsibility, and integrity. We believe these self-imposed measures are the appropriate steps forward as we work to strengthen oversight, reinforce compliance, and ensure that our athletic programs fully reflect the values and mission of our school and the TSSAA.”
In a July 7 letter to Mr. Sompayrac, the TSSAA said it “has accepted the measures that are being implemented by the administration” of KCHS.