TSSAA denies Maplewood football's appeal, maintaining 2026 playoff ban

Maplewood football's appeal for eligibility in the 2026 TSSAA playoffs was denied on June 9. The TSSAA Board of Control upheld a previous decision to impose a playoff ban after head coach Chris Simpson violated recruiting rules. The violations included initiating contact with prospective student-athletes without administrative approval. Maplewood officials, including principal Sonya Brooks, expressed disappointment but acknowledged the need for compliance and proposed corrective actions to the board. The TSSAA had initially placed the program on regular and restrictive probation, along with a fine and training requirements for coaches.

• 7:56 PMYahoo Sports — Maplewood football denied appeal by TSSAA, banned from 2026 playoffs