BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) – A new chapter is underway for Tri-Cities Christian Academy football as the Eagles take the field this fall with first-year head coach Robbie Norris at the helm.

Norris, a former Sullivan North head coach and Rye Cove assistant, inherits a roster that blends experienced seniors with a wave of young talent. That balance was on display Friday night in the Eagles’ season opener against South Haven Christian.

TCA fell behind 34–0 at halftime but refused to fold, rallying for four second-half touchdowns before ultimately falling 40–26. Norris says the fight his team showed is a reflection of the foundation being built within the program.

“The kids and the culture here are excellent,” Norris said. “All the administration is really supportive. The kids themselves are great. The parents are great. I’m in a good place to end my career, so I’m excited.”

This fall’s schedule features several non-conference road tests, including games at Hurley and Twin Valley in Southwest Virginia.

Senior leaders are embracing their role in shaping that culture. Wide receiver and linebacker Levi Furrow says the team is benefiting from a deeper coaching staff and a clear vision for the season.

“It’s actually really nice to have a coach for every position, so we get independent time with each coach to make ourselves better so we can better the team as a whole,” Furrow said. “This season, we’re looking to win a championship, develop our players spiritually and physically, and then create a brotherhood that’ll hopefully lead on for a legacy.”

Tight end and linebacker Emmett Kelly echoed that message, adding that younger players are already looking up to the seniors on the roster.

“I love our coaches and we have a bunch of young players on our team that are starting,” Kelly said. “The younger guys look up to us, so if they see us slacking off, they’re going to slack off. But if they see us keep fighting when we’re down, they’re going to keep fighting with us.”