Prelude to a Championship

CHATTANOOGA, TN (July 15, 2026) Twelve high school football teams will take to the field at Finley
Stadium to participate in the annual Prelude to a Championship starting on August 13 th . For the first
time in 27-years, the format will be full- scrimmage play only, replacing the Jamboree format of 30-
minute quarters. And if that weren’t enough- we are delighted to have added the Marion County
Band along with bands representing Heritage, Ringgold, and Dade County.
All the teams from Tennessee have hopes of returning to Finley this December for a shot at a state
championship while the Georgia and Alabama Schools will use their time to prepare for a run at their
respective state titles.
“We are thrilled to have Chattanooga State as our presenting sponsor and for their commitment,” said
Todd Agne, the Events Coordinating Partner. “It really solidifies their connection with area high
schools, sports, and higher education. Their support allows us to continue to kick off the high school
football season with a fun, family event”.

This year’s schedule expands from two Border Battles to four and includes two cross-town showdowns
when Marion plays Cleveland and Dade takes on North Sand Mtn. "These scrimmages offer fans a
chance to see some different matchups", said Agne.  "We are always excited to welcome teams from
North Georgia and now Alabama and give them the experience of playing in Finley Stadium."
Tickets are available at participating high schools and at the Finley Stadium Gates. All seats are
general admission and cost $10.
Updates and schedules are available on finleystadium.com/events

2026 Schedule

Thursday August 13th-
6:30 Ringgold vs East Hamilton
8:30 North Murray vs. Notre Dame
Friday August 14th-
6:30 Heritage vs Boyd Buchanan
8:30 Marion County vs Cleveland

Saturday August 15th-
6:30 Dade County vs Chatt Prep
8:30 Murray County vs. Ridgeland

*All times are EST

Visit

FINLEYSTADIUM.COM/EVENTS
for schedule updates and times

*Additional information:
Only one clear plastic bag no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches or a one-gallon, clear, resealable
plastic storage bag per person will be permitted. Fans will also be allowed a small clutch purse not to exceed 4.5
inches by 6.5 inches.
No other bags will be allowed inside Finley Stadium. All items, including clear bags and clutch purses, are
subject to search at the gates.
Other prohibited items:
● Alcoholic beverages, cans, bottles and coolers
● Outside food, snacks and beverages
● Radios without headphones
● Open umbrellas
● Video cameras, professional cameras or cameras with detachable lenses
● Stadium seats with arms or pockets
● Folding chairs or camp chairs
● Weapons of any kind, including pocketknives
● Selfie sticks, artificial noisemakers
No items can be left or stored at the gates.
Fans can bring the following items inside athletic venues, provided they meet the size requirement:
● Cushions or seats without arms or pockets
● Small bags with medically necessary items, subject to search
● Diapers and non-medically necessary items for babies and young children should be carried in a clear
bag. An infant/child must accompany a diaper bag
● Small cameras, cell phones and binoculars
Address
1826 Reggie White Blvd
Chattanooga, TN 37408
423.266.4041
Gates Open @ 5:30 pm (St. Elmo West Only) 6:30 pm: Heritage vs. Boyd Buchanan 8:30 pm: Marion County vs. Cleveland