FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JAN. 10, 2025

The KHSAA is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Friends of Coal Kentucky in a collaboration that celebrates two enduring pillars of Kentucky’s identity: the coal industry and high school athletics. This partnership aims to inspire communities, educate future generations and honor the shared values of resilience, reliability and community that define both coal and sports.

“Friends of Coal is proud to partner with the KHSAA in celebrating the values that define both coal and sports: resilience, reliability and community,” said Friends of Coal Kentucky Chairman Terry Marsh. “Just as coal has been a cornerstone of Kentucky’s economy and a symbol of its hardworking people, athletics serve as a foundation for personal growth and teamwork, shaping our young athletes into future leaders.”

The partnership seeks to create meaningful engagement opportunities, showcasing the parallels between the coal industry’s vital role in powering the state and the perseverance of student-athletes across Kentucky. From powering homes and schools to fueling determination and teamwork on the field, both coal and athletics represent the strength and unity that bring Kentuckians together.

“Coal has powered our state for generations, fueling homes, schools and businesses while creating thousands of jobs,” Marsh said. “It stands as a testament to Kentucky’s enduring spirit, much like the athletes who persevere through challenges on and off the field.”

KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett highlighted the natural synergy between the coal industry and high school sports.

“There is no doubt that the rich history and importance of the coal industry and the border-to-border community importance of interscholastic athletics are forever intertwined in our Commonwealth," said Tackett. "This is a fantastic, natural partnership, and we are excited to continue to keep the light on and to help educate all about these resilient, reliable and affordable aspects of our daily lives.”

As part of this collaboration, Friends of Coal and the KHSAA will develop programs and initiatives that emphasize the shared traditions and values of Kentucky communities. By fostering an appreciation for coal’s contributions and the spirit of athletic competition, the partnership aims to inspire pride and unity throughout the Commonwealth.

“Families have passed down stories of working in the mines just as they have cherished memories of cheering under the Friday night lights,” said Marsh. “These shared traditions bring our communities together, reminding us of our shared history and collective strength.”

This initiative marks an exciting new chapter for both organizations as they work together to uplift Kentucky’s youth and celebrate the state’s rich heritage. The KHSAA and Friends of Coal are committed to ensuring this partnership has a lasting impact, both on and off the field.

For more information about this partnership and upcoming initiatives, please contact Teall Properties Group Senior Account Manager Zack Highley.

For complete details, visit: https://ly.khsaa.org/je4q

Great press release that leaves me confused.  Is this partnership being formed and directed at something specific or has there just been financial support (much needed, always) and KHSAA will continue business as usual?  I am not saying business as usual is bad, just confused by this press release that didn’t mention money or specifics and the general was using a very broad brush.

Why not have a “Friends of Coal” bowl and invite 4 of the best programs in the state to square off and have it at a location in the state where the coal industry has played a major role in that community.  You could have the teams come for a few days and have some educational programs to educate those young men about the role coal has played in our state.  A place like Lynch would be a great example.  US Coal practically built that entire community and the Lynch Bulldogs were consistently one of the top football programs in Kentucky during the 60s and 70s.

2 hours ago, Bengal Boy said:

Why not have a “Friends of Coal” bowl and invite 4 of the best programs in the state to square off and have it at a location in the state where the coal industry has played a major role in that community.  You could have the teams come for a few days and have some educational programs to educate those young men about the role coal has played in our state.  A place like Lynch would be a great example.  US Coal practically built that entire community and the Lynch Bulldogs were consistently one of the top football programs in Kentucky during the 60s and 70s.

If I had a vote, I would vote for this! Amazing idea!