The 2026-27 school year marks a historic milestone for Nashville Collegiate Prep (NCP) High School as the public charter school takes the field for its very first varsity football season. Led by Head Coach Jamie Graham, the new program represents years of planning, partnership, and dedication from coaches, players, and the entire NCP community.¶
Coach Graham joined Nashville Collegiate Prep after previously working at Lipscomb Academy and has been the driving force behind building the program from the ground up. He assembled a coaching staff of seven coaches, all of whom had previously worked with him or developed professional relationships with him throughout their careers. The staff also includes Athletic Trainer Eric Owens, who helps keep players healthy and game-ready throughout the season.¶
Among the coaching staff is Assistant Coach Ryan Eledge, who teaches multiple subjects at NCP. Before joining the Lions, Eledge spent two years as a graduate assistant with the University of Tennessee football program, bringing valuable experience and knowledge to the young team.¶
The roster currently includes 42 players, with approximately 10 athletes attending nearby Valor College Prep. Previously, Valor students participated in a partnership with Overton High School's football program, but now they have the opportunity to compete as part of Nashville Collegiate Prep's inaugural team.¶
"It's really special for a charter school to have a football team," said Johnny Brown, a senior at Valor.¶
The excitement is amplified by NCP's brand-new football field, complete with stadium lights that allow the school to host night games and create a true Friday night football atmosphere.¶
While wins and losses will eventually be measured on the scoreboard, Coach Graham and his staff are focused on building something much larger. Under the team motto, "One Team, One Goal," coaches work daily to teach players the values of hard work, discipline, and camaraderie.¶
Difficult First Game
The team's first game ended in a difficult 68-0 loss to Crockett County last month, but coaches and players remain optimistic about the future. According to Coach Eledge, the score did not reflect the team's potential.¶
"There were a lot of mental mistakes that contributed to the loss," Eledge said. "We really just beat ourselves."¶
Coach Kincaid emphasized the reality of starting a brand-new program.¶
"We're starting from scratch," he said. "We're young."¶
Despite the challenges, confidence remains high throughout the locker room. Julian Wyatt, a junior at Valor who plays both cornerback and defensive tackle, believes in the direction of the program and the leadership of the coaching staff.¶
"They gave us a good plan to go out and execute and just have fun," Wyatt said.¶
That confidence extends to the team's younger players as well. Freshman John Fleming was asked about the team's upcoming matchup at Davidson Academy.¶
"I'm ready," Fleming said. "We're going to win."¶
Following a strong week of preparation, coaches have been encouraged by the team's progress. Both Graham and Eledge praised the intensity and focus displayed during Thursday's practice.¶
"If they play like they practiced, we've got a pretty good shot," Eledge said.¶
Big Opportunity
For many players, the opportunity to be part of NCP's first varsity football team represents more than just a season. It is a chance to build a legacy. Junior Devine Johnson, who plays on both offense and defense, knows the experience could help him achieve his dream of playing college football one day.¶
"I've got a lot on the line," Johnson said. "So I also feel good about it. I'm energized."¶
Johnson hopes to eventually play for the Michigan Wolverines and believes the exposure and experience gained through the new program could help him earn a college scholarship in the future.¶
Although the Lions are only beginning their journey, the foundation has been laid for something special. With dedicated coaches, committed players, and strong community support, Nashville Collegiate Prep's first varsity football team is building a culture that extends far beyond wins and losses. As the players continue to grow together under the banner of "One Team, One Goal," the future of NCP football looks bright.¶
