Western North Carolina charter school that was 3-seed in last year’s football playoffs cancels rest of the season

MOORESBORO, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A western North Carolina charter school is terminating its football season early. 

Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy announced Wednesday that its varsity football team’s season is over after just four games. The athletic department says injuries played a key role in what they call a “difficult decision.” 

“Throughout the season, our program has experienced a significant number of serious injuries, many of which have required or will require surgery. With low numbers remaining, we determined that continuing the season would not be in the best interest of the health and safety of our student-athletes.” 

TJCA is an NCSHAA 1A school in eastern Rutherford County, and draws many of its students from Cleveland County. 

The Gryphons lost their third straight game last Friday, a 11-0 loss to Albemarle High School. They were supposed to play at North Stanly on Friday, for the Comets’ homecoming game. 

TJCA says they plan to return to the gridiron next year. Last season, the team went 5-7, including a win in the state playoffs. 
“We are incredibly grateful for the commitment of our student-athletes, coaches, families, and supporters throughout the season, and our focus will now turn toward growing the football program heading into next year,” school leaders said. 

The Gryphons join West Caldwell, among others, to not field a varsity team this year. 

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