News Summary

The First Academy in Orlando has been denied the opportunity to compete in the 2025 football playoffs due to offseason rules violations. The Florida High School Athletic Association’s board unanimously voted against TFA’s appeal, leading to serious penalties including the forfeiture of previous wins and hefty fines. Head coach Jeff Conaway is also suspended for the entire 2025 season. Despite these challenges, TFA looks forward to a tough 2025 schedule with hopes of rebuilding its reputation and program in the future.

Orlando’s Football Spirit Takes a Hit

In a significant development for high school football fans in Orlando, the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) has officially denied The First Academy (TFA) the chance to compete in the 2025 football playoffs. The decision was made when the FHSAA board of directors voted unanimously, with all 10 members against TFA’s appeal. This resolution sheds light on the ongoing issues surrounding offseason rules violations that have put a damper on the program’s playoff hopes.

What Went Wrong?

The trouble for TFA began back in October when the FHSAA placed the school under stringent measures due to serious violations. It was found that at least 10 players were involved in football activities before enrolling at the school, which triggered a *restrictive probation*. This led TFA to forfeit all nine of its wins from the 2024 season and accumulate a hefty fine of $36,000.

Even after the season came to a close on November 1, TFA’s hopes for a comeback were dashed when a five-person infractions committee unanimously upheld the penalties. With the decision in hand, the excitement of playoff football is now out of reach for the next two years, striking a blow to the players, coaches, and fans alike.

Coaching Changes and Implications

Adding to the list of penalties, head coach Jeff Conaway, who had just stepped into the role in June 2023, faces a suspension for the entire 2025 season. Conaway, known for his success at a previous school, will also have to forfeit $5,000 of his salary. This measure certainly raises questions about the future of the football program as it tries to regain its footing.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Despite the dark cloud hanging over TFA, the football program has its sights set on a challenging national schedule for 2025. The lineup includes tough opponents such as IMG Academy, Milton from Georgia, Phenix City Central from Alabama, Venice, and St. Frances Academy from Maryland. Notably, *four* of TFA’s 2025 rivals were nationally ranked in the previous season, featuring heavyweights like the Alabama 7A state runner-up and the New Jersey private school state champion.

Bearing in mind that TFA will be limited to a mere 10 regular-season games for the year, the stakes are incredibly high. But TFA is not short on talent; several players from the 2026 and 2027 classes hold Power 4 offers, making the future look bright amidst current challenges.

A Glimpse of Hope

When TFA’s athletic director, Will Cohen, presented the appeal for participation, he highlighted the significant measures being implemented to ensure that no further violations occur. The hope is that with the appointment of the new athletic director, Andy Chiles, TFA can rebuild its reputation and avoid any similar pitfalls in the future.

The community around TFA is understandably concerned and disappointed. Football is more than just a game in Orlando—it’s a tradition of teamwork and spirit. As the dust settles from this latest decision, eyes will be focused on how the program can bounce back, not only for the sake of the athletes but for the enthusiasm their games bring to local fans.

Ultimately, while the *2025 football playoffs* will not see TFA on the field, the lessons learned may pave the way for a stronger, more compliant team in the coming years. As fans, students, and community members rally behind the program, the hope is that no matter the setbacks, the heart of TFA football will remain strong.

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