The excitement is building as the Tennessee Boys Volleyball Association (TBVA) continues to work to grow boys’ high school volleyball across the state. The association, founded in 2023, recently held its second annual state tournament, bringing together the best high school boys’ volleyball teams from across the state. The event took place on Saturday, May 10, at TOA in Franklin, Tennessee, just south of Nashville.

This much-anticipated tournament featured a showcase of athleticism, skill, and sportsmanship, as teams battled it out for the coveted title of state champions. With the growing popularity of boys’ volleyball in Tennessee, the competition was fierce, with participating teams delivering thrilling matches. There is exceptional athletic talent within the state that has been untapped until recently in this sport.

“Boys volleyball participation has increased significantly, doubling since 2005! In 2025, high school boys volleyball participation in the US continues a strong upward trend, particularly in states like Pennsylvania and Oklahoma.” said TBVA Board Member and JECA Coach Tim Eidson, “The sport has become one of the fastest-growing team sports, with substantial increases in participation numbers compared to previous years.Specifically, in 2023-24, participation reached 85,255, an increase of nearly 8,000 over the previous year!”

According to recent statistics on the growth of high school volleyball across the country, there has been a significant increase in participation rates over the past decade. The number of high school boys’ volleyball teams has risen by X% nationally, reflecting a growing interest in the sport among young athletes.

“We are thrilled to have hosted the second annual TBVA state tournament and love that we are able to provide a platform for these incredibly talented young athletes to showcase their skills,” said Tracy Stevens, President of TBVA and Green Hill High School Coach. “This tournament is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the players, coaches, and supporters who have helped to elevate boys’ high school volleyball in Tennessee.”

Boys high school volleyball in Tennessee is experiencing substantial growth, with a significant increase in participation and a growing number of teams.The Tennessee Boys Volleyball Association and organizations like First Point Volleyball and the Southern Region Volleyball Association are actively promoting the sport and working towards official sanctioning by the TSSAA. This growth is fueled by increasing awareness, dedicated coaches, and the passionate support of volunteers. The number of teams participating has more than tripled in just two years.

The tournament not only offers an opportunity for teams to compete at the highest level, but also serves as a celebration of the growth and success of boys’ volleyball in the state. 250-300 spectators enjoyed a day filled with electrifying matches, cheering fans, and a vibrant display of sportsmanship.

”Something we started doing right off the bat when teams started competing in matches is taking a photo all together after every match. Winning is fun, but showing these boys how important it is to work together and to foster great relationships across the net is the best part of what we are doing,” said Siegel Coach, Trish Flowers, who was voted by her peers as TBVA’s Coach of the Year.

The TBVA encourages volleyball enthusiasts, supporters, and the community at large to get involved in what they are doing to support high school boys volleyball. “There’s so much that needs to be done to help us get to the point that TSSAA will sanction this sport,” said tournament director Aubrey Ficek. “We need 67 TSSAA-participating high schools to either have a current boys’ team or commit to supporting a team once the sport is sanctioned. There is a grassroots effort building and there’s something for everyone to do!”

 For more information about the TBVA and the second annual state tournament, visit www.tennesseeboysvolleyballassociation.com or follow TBVA on social media.instagram.com/tnboysvolleyball.

Tuesday April 22, 2025  The Smith County Owls Soccer Team had their Senior Night and hosted Jackson County in a District match.  This year the Owls recognized nine players and four managers on Senior Night. Most of these young men have played together since they were little kids.  We have had the honor of watching them grow, mature, and become amazing young adults.  Three of the four managers are former Lady Owls and have served as manager for the boys team for several years.  All 13 have done an outstanding job and will leave big shoes to fill.  We would like to say thank you and good luck in your futures! James Bunn, Tatum Poindexter, Michael Martin, Jarrain Smith, Adyn Elliott, Terence Davis, Cruz Martinez, Gerardo Olvera, Aldrin Jimenez, Karma Pickett, Kiley Jenkins, Emma Butler and Jade Eisenhauer.

After the Senior Night Ceremony it was time for kickoff against Jackson County.  Smith County lost 1-0.  This season has been a rollercoaster for the Owls.  The talent is there but they have struggled to convert that into wins.  The game on Thursday was canceled for weather.  The record as it stands is 2-10-1.  The District Tournament is hosted this year by Jackson County and will be the week of May 5th. (photo and article provided by Vivian Schaffers)

On Tuesday April 8, 2025 Smith County Owls hosted Monterey in the first District match between the two teams.  The Owls were coming off of a District win vs York the week before and were looking to start a streak of wins.  The first goal of this game came with 14 minutes left in the first half.  Aldrin Jimenez scored the opener with an assist from Adyn Elliott.  A few minutes later Elliott would score with the assist from Bradley Pickett.  The score of 2-0 would stand into the half time break.  

Less than two minutes into the second half, Adyn Elliott would again score this time with an assist from Jarrain Smith. With 29 minutes on the clock Smith County would be awarded a penalty kick that was taken by Elliott and netted him a hat trick for the night.  Jarrain Smith came back to add a Goal to his assist bringing the score to 5-0 and 12 minutes left in the game.  There were several more attempts but then, with less than a minute remaining, Gavin Kemp scored with an assist to Bradley Pickett.  Kemp had been sidelined with an injury for a month so scoring on his return was quite the lift for him.  So with 6-0 win and a clean sheet for Keeper James Bunn in the books and the second District win, the Owls had a great evening on the pitch.

Thursday April 10 Smith County traveled to Jackson County for another District match.  This one would go a bit differently.  The Owls would have 30 shots to Jackson County’s 10.  The Blue Devils would strike first scoring with 16 minutes left in the first half.  Adyn Elliott assisted by Eli Spain would bring it level with only 8 seconds in the half.  The second half opened in the first minute with another Jackson County Goal bringing it to 2-1.  At the 26 minute mark Zane Felice would net a beautiful goal with a cross from Gavin Kemp, once again bringing it level.  Jackson County would go on to score twice more on the Owls ending the game with an Owl loss of 4-2.  This is the first time the Blue Devils have won against Smith County.

The Jackson County game was a set back but the Owls are resilient and growing.  The two teams will meet again on April 22nd at Smith County, this will also be the Owls Senior Night.   On Tuesday April 15 Smith County will travel to Macon County for a non District match up.  Thursday there is no game due to Cannon’s withdrawal.  photos and article submitted by Vivian Schaffers

The Smith County Men’s Soccer team is back for the 2025 season.  Led by Head Coach Wesley Kemp, Assistant Coach Nicholus Bussell and the newest edition of Coach Jason Alexander, this season promises to be full of success and growth.  The season home opener took place on March 4th hosting Friendship Christian.  It was a very tightly played game, being scoreless at the half.  Varsity saw Friendship Christian take the win with a score of 3-2.  Smith County saw goals from Gavin Kemp and another from Jarrain Smith with an assist from Gavin Petersen. The weather forced a cancellation of the JV match.

On Thursday March 6, Smith County hosted Livingston Academy.  Varsity for Smith County would lose this one 4-2, with the goals being scored by Gavin Kemp with an assist from Cruz Martinez and the second goal coming from Senior Adyn Elliott with an assist from Freshman Zane Felice.  Following the Varsity game the JV took to the pitch for a go.  Smith County would win this one 1-0 with the lone goal of the match coming from Eli Spain.

So far the Owls have faced off against teams a level up and that continues on Tuesday March 11th as they travel to Dekalb County and another on Thursday as they also travel to Wilson Central.  The first district match won’t come until March 18 as Smith County travels to face York Institute.  The Owls will be back home on the 20th to host Portland and we hope everyone will come out and pack the park in support of these young men.

photos and article submitted by Vivian Schaffers

The TSSAA recently released the new 2025-2027 reclassifications for all Tennessee high schools. Some main schools that moved were 3A powerhouse Alcoa moving up to 4A and Cumberland County dropping from 4A. However, the biggest change came with Gordonsville high school moving up to 2A this upcoming season. 

“We are excited about our new district and the challenges that go with playing at a bigger school,” said Gordonsville High School football coach Stephen Jackson. 

Gordonsville has remained in class 1A for over 40 years. This created strong traditions between schools like Clay County and South Pittsburg. With Gordonsville moving into 2A, the Tigers will be able to take on a new slate of district opponents including Trousdale County, Jackson County, Cannon County, and their biggest rivals in Smith County. 

Smith County and Gordonsville have always had high-stakes matchups, this year the Tigers took care of business in Carthage taking down the black and gold 20-6. The two teams always play the first week of the season in a game that is swarmed by local media and fans alike. 

“It will create a truly electric atmosphere for the community and schools. It will add more weight to it being a region game along with being a rivalry game.” said Smith County Owls Coach Matt Dyer. 

With the two teams now competing in the same district and classification it creates an opportunity for both teams to battle for a region championship and potentially a state quarterfinal game in the future. The next two years will create new rivalries with teams that are very familiar with each other in a new high stakes setting. 

The long-standing rivalry between Smith County and Gordonsville just got a major upgrade. With the Tigers now set to compete directly with the Owls for district honors, fans can expect the same intensity and passion that have defined this clash for years—only now, the stakes are even higher.

A new podcast is making waves in Smith County, providing local athletes with the recognition they deserve. The Dugout Dads Local Sports Podcast, launched in August 2024, is dedicated to covering all sports at Gordonsville High School and Smith County High School. Co-hosted by Michael Hughes and Jonathan Parker, with Matt Inyart serving as the producer, the podcast brings a fresh perspective on the athletic talent in the community.

The weekly live show is held every Sunday evening at Nobel’s Restaurant in Carthage, where local coaches and athletes are invited to discuss their recent games and seasons. Whether it’s football, basketball, golf, volleyball, or even cheerleading, no sport is left uncovered.

Michael Hughes, one of the podcast’s founders and co-hosts, shared the inspiration behind the podcast: “We started this podcast to bring recognition to all athletes and coaches of all sports in this county. They all deserve it from football to basketball, soccer, softball, baseball, volleyball, golf, cross country, and cheerleaders. If we can accomplish this just a little then we are doing what we set out to do.”

The origins of the podcast began with a simple conversation between Michael and Jonathan. “Michael and I were talking one day, and he made mention about wanting to start a local sports podcast,” Jonathan explained. “He asked if I’d have any interest in doing it, and I jumped at the opportunity. Our area is saturated with athletic talent, and we want to highlight those athletes.”

Both Michael and Jonathan have coached multiple sports within the county, giving them unique insights into the local athletic scene. They began recording remotely, but the podcast has since grown into a live show at Nobel’s Restaurant, where fans can watch in person and interact with the hosts and guests.

Jonathan Parker adds: “Our local athletes deserve the recognition, and we are enjoying every minute of it. We hope everyone is enjoying the Podcast, where our skills are questionable, but our spirit is unstoppable.”

Producer Matt Inyart plays a crucial role in the podcast’s success, managing production and bringing technical expertise to the table. The team is constantly learning and refining their process to improve the quality of the show.

Covering sports from high school to college and professional levels, Dugout Dads has quickly become a community favorite. Each episode not only highlights individual athletes but also fosters a sense of pride in Smith County’s sporting achievements.

With its casual yet passionate approach, the Dugout Dads Local Sports Podcast is set to become a staple in local sports media, giving both athletes and fans a platform to celebrate the love of the game.

Be sure to catch the next live show at Nobel’s Restaurant in Carthage this Sunday evening, and tune in for interviews, recaps, and all things Smith County sports.

Follow Dugout Dads Local Sports Podcast on Facebook or Spotify.

The Smith County Lady Owls traveled to Jackson County for the last regular season game on Tuesday, October 1st.  Smith County would take this District match 6-0 and follow it up with a JV win of 1-0. Smith County finishes the regular season 11-2-1 with a district record of 6-0.

The first half the Lady Owls would find the net four times.  Senior Kiley Jenkins started it off with an assist from Chloe Gill.  Senior Briley Grisham would add the next goal with an assist from Jenkins. The third scoring was made by Senior Aubrey Felice assisted by Lexie White.  Kacie Chiapperini would win a battle in front of the Jackson County net to earn the fourth goal.  The second half Aubrey Felice scored early bringing the score to 5-0 and earning her 124th career goal.  The game was put to bed when Smith County was awarded a penalty kick, taken by Freshman Matty Walker which she sent to the back of the net with ease.  The Varsity win was followed by a JV game that only resulted in one goal scored by Kylee Brooks and assisted by Kacie Chiapperini.  

October 8th the District Semi finals will be hosted in Jamestown by York Institute.  Smith County will play York at 5 PM, followed by a game between Cannon County and Jackson County.  The winners of these two games will play for the District Championship on Thursday October 10th.

Thursday September 26th the Lady Owls hosted York Institute for a District Match.  It was also Smith County’s Senior Night, honoring six players and one manager at the halftime break.  The Seniors were Katie Flynn, Aubrey Felice, Briley Grisham, Kiley Jenkins, Madelyn Hula, Averi Hopkins and Mike Martin.  

The game started with a light on and off rain but picked up as the game went on.  It did not seem to bother the Lady Owls who won 8-0.  The first half saw goals from Briley Grisham and Aubrey Felice, while the Lady Dragons were more focused on a complete defense rather than offense.  York continued the second half the same way, making no shots on goal and failing to stop Smith County reaching the net.  Smith County scored an additional six goals in the second half. Aubree Felice assisted by Aubree Spain, Kiley Jenkins assisted by Aubrey Felice, Jenkins would score the next goal followed two minutes later by Felice, giving Felice a hat trick. Aubree Spain assisted by Kacie Chiapperini, and the final goal scored by Kylee Brooks assisted by Bella Breece.  

The Lady Owls have one more regular season game which will be Tuesday October 1st at Jackson County.  The District Tournament will begin the next week in Jamestown, hosted by York.  Currently Smith County leads the District Standings 5-0, followed by Cannon 3-2, Jackson 1-2-1 and York in last place with 0-5-1.  

This has been a great season so far for the Lady Owls and they look forward to the post season journey.  We hope everyone will come out and support them and give them the fire to keep bringing home the wins.

photos and article submitted by Vivian Schaffers

On September 17th, Smith County hosted 2A White County for a non-district match, showcasing a dominant performance from the Lady Owls. The defense played exceptionally well, with goalkeeper Catie Belle McCarter earning a clean sheet, while the White County goalkeeper faced a challenging night. The Lady Owls overwhelmed the Lady Warriors, finishing with an impressive 9-0 victory.

Senior Aubrey Felice was a standout, netting three goals. Two of her goals were assisted by Addie Cripps, while Lexie White provided the assist for her third. Chloe Gill also contributed to the scoreline, finding the back of the net with help from Kiley Jenkins. Aubree Spain added two goals to the tally, with one assist from Chloe Gill and another from Kiley Jenkins. Kiley herself scored on a well-placed free kick and later added another goal, assisted by Kylee Brooks. The match even included an own goal from White County, further solidifying the Lady Owls’ commanding victory.

Two days later, on September 19th, Smith County faced off against Cannon County for the second time this district season. The Lady Owls had previously triumphed in their first meeting, winning 4-0, and Cannon County came into this match looking to avenge their only loss. It turned out to be a heated and chippy affair, with both teams displaying their competitive spirit. However, the Lady Owls remained resilient, securing a 2-0 win. Kiley Jenkins opened the scoring with a stunning free kick, and Addie Cripps sealed the victory with a goal assisted by Chloe Gill.

Looking ahead, the Smith County Lady Owls will travel to Dekalb County on September 24th before returning home to host York Institute for Senior Night. Their final regular-season game is scheduled for October 1st at Jackson County.

The SCHS Cheer squad showed great support during the match against Cannon County, highlighting the camaraderie among student-athletes. It’s heartening to see such school spirit, and the stands have been packed this season. If you haven’t yet attended a game, you’re truly missing out on an exciting experience!

photo and article submitted by Vivian Schaffers

The Smith County High School Lady Owls soccer team made their annual trip to the Smoky Mountain Cup Tournament in Gatlinburg from September 6-8, and this year’s visit ended in spectacular fashion. Known for providing a rigorous test of skill and a chance for players to bond, the tournament proved to be a major success for the Lady Owls, who claimed the Championship trophy—marking their first back-to-back titles at this event.

The Lady Owls faced two matches on Saturday. Their first game was against Pigeon Forge High School, where they secured a decisive 5-1 victory. Aubrey Felice led the charge with a hat-trick, while Aubree Spain and Kiley Jenkins each added a goal. Assists came from Chloe Gill, goalkeeper Catie Belle McCarter, and both Felice and Jenkins, who contributed two assists each.

Later on Saturday night Smith County went up against 3A Ooltewah.  It was a battle to the end and the Lady Owls defense stood tall. The game ended in a draw of 0-0. Despite the result not being ideal, the Lady Owls’ defense put in a commendable performance.

On Sunday, the team faced Franklin County, KY. At the same time, Ooltewah played DeKalb County, and the standings indicated that a win by a margin greater than Ooltewah’s could secure the top spot for Smith County. The game against Franklin County was intense and physical, but the Lady Owls emerged victorious with a 6-4 win. The goals were scored by Aubrey Felice (four), Lexie White (one), and Kiley Jenkins (one on a penalty kick). Assists were provided by Briley Grisham (two), Chloe Gill (two), and Addie Cripps (one). The victory ensured that the Lady Owls would take home the Championship trophy, a reward for their hard-fought effort.

Smith County had a few days to recover before hosting Jackson County on Wednesday September 11th.  Despite lingering fatigue from the weekend, the Lady Owls, driven by the importance of the District match, gave a strong performance. They managed to keep a clean sheet while scoring three goals. Aubrey Felice netted two goals, and Addie Cripps added one. Assists came from Aubree Spain, Lexie White, and Chloe Gill.

Looking ahead, the Lady Owls will host White County on September 17 and Cannon County on the 19th.

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