2 JCPS football programs sanctioned over heat safety violations

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Two Jefferson County Public Schools football programs have been penalized and placed on probation for the 2026 season after holding an unauthorized summer scrimmage.

JCPS Athletics and the Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) finalized sanctions against Atherton High School and Central High School after the teams scrimmaged in July before completing mandatory heat acclimatization protocols.

The self-reported violations resulted in several major penalties for both schools, including:

• Scrimmage Cancellations: Both programs must cancel their first preseason scrimmage against outside opponents across varsity, JV, and freshman levels.
• Reduced Practice: Two full-gear practices scheduled between Aug. 1 and Aug. 7 are canceled with no makeups allowed.
• Fines & Probation: Both schools face a $250 fine and have been placed on probation for the 2026 season. Any further violations could lead to staff suspensions or game cancellations.
• Required Training: All coaches were required to complete administrative training on athlete heat acclimatization, which JCPS says both coaching staffs have already finished.

“Both programs remain fully committed to meeting all regulations and prioritizing student-athlete safety,” JCPS said in a statement.