ALCOA, Tenn. — Alcoa High School is set to take a significant step in its athletics program as it transitions to a higher competition division for the upcoming season. This decision comes after the school’s athletic director, Josh Stephens, announced that Alcoa has been granted permission to compete as a 4A school.

The move follows a formal request sent earlier this year to the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association. The primary goal behind applying for the 4A classification is to allow Alcoa’s football team the chance to play a full 10-game schedule, which they believe will greatly benefit the program. Currently, Alcoa is participating in a 9-game season, and the shift to 4A is expected to make it easier for the school to secure the additional game.

With this new classification, Alcoa is preparing to face off against other 4A schools starting next season. This means the team will be introducing themselves to new rivals on the field. The projected regions for these matchups are anticipated to be released within the next few days, providing teams with important information about potential opponents. Schools will also have the opportunity to appeal their regional placements, aiming for the most competitive environment possible.

This transition marks an exciting chapter for Alcoa High School’s athletics, especially for the football team, which will kick off its first season in the 4A division in 2025. As the school gears up for this challenge, student-athletes and fans alike can look forward to a new level of competition and the prospect of an extended season.