Powell coach Matt Lowe instructs his players during spring practice in May 2018. (Photo: Danny Parker)
The TSSAA confirmed Wednesday afternoon that a letter has been sent to the Powell High School administration.
While the content of that letter and its subject matter can’t yet be released yet by the TSSAA to the media, multiple sources have told 5Star Preps that the issue at hand stems from allegations that the Powell football team may have used an ineligible player or players.
Powell High School athletic director Chad Smith confirmed the receipt of the letter from the TSSAA and offered this statement via text message:
“These circumstances are a result of assumed incorrect documentation. There has not been any effort or intention whatsoever to misrepresent the athletic interest of Powell High School, Knox County Schools, or the TSSAA. We are deeply disappointed for the effected student athlete who is not at fault and will aggressively work with the TSSAA through the appeal process.”
When that appeal happens is unclear at this juncture, as is the athlete in question.
Smith did not respond to a question about what sort of punishment or penalty the TSSAA might have levied.
But if the Powell football program gets stripped of wins, it could severely hinder the Panthers’ chances of making the playoffs. They are 6-1 (3-1 Region 3-5A) this season and play a critical game this Friday at West (3-4, 2-1) and next week at region-leading Oak Ridge (6-1, 3-0).
Only the top four teams in each region advance to the playoffs, which means Powell may need wins Friday and next week to have a chance at qualifying.
UPDATED (11:17 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 4): Powell High School released the following statement on Thursday morning.
“Powell High School can confirm that the TSSAA is disciplining the football program based upon
the eligibility of a football player. Powell High School incorrectly entered student information
into the TSSAA eligibility portal.
The following is the official statement from Powell High School Athletic Director, Chad Smith.
These circumstances are a result of incorrect documentation. There has never been any effort or
intention whatsoever to misrepresent the athletic interests of Powell High School. We will
comply with all of the instructions set forth by the TSSAA regarding this situation.
The following is the official statement from Powell High School Principal, Dr. Chad Smith.
Powell High School prides itself on being a school that is student-centered and a school that
exhibits integrity both on and off the field and it will continue to be that way. We understand that
it is a new day in Knox County athletics, and we look forward to watching all of our student-athletes compete in future athletic contests.”