The 2026 North Carolina Independent Schools Athletic Association season is set to open on August 21, ushering in a year of high expectations for private‑school football programs across western North Carolina.
Bold predictions are already shaping the narrative for the upcoming campaign, with rivalries, roster moves and title aspirations taking center stage.
The 100th edition of The Game
The centennial clash between Christ School and Asheville School, known simply as The Game, is scheduled for September 26 and promises to add another chapter to a rivalry that has defined western North Carolina private‑school football for decades.
Christ School enters the season with a roster bolstered by new transfers, adding depth and experience that could tip the balance in its favor.
Asheville School, meanwhile, is eyeing its fourth state championship in five years, driven by star running back Shiloh Mukendi, who has drawn interest from several Division I programs.
Key contributors such as offensive lineman Anton Oladejo and linebacker Alexandre Samson are expected to anchor the team's performance, while the coaching staff continues to fine‑tune strategies aimed at sustaining success.
Rebuilding at Asheville Christian Academy
After a challenging rebuild, Asheville Christian Academy is projected to secure a handful of victories this season, highlighted by quarterback Les Otis, who threw for 1,764 yards and 12 touchdowns a year ago.
The team's early schedule includes a debut game on August 14, giving the new coaching staff a chance to evaluate progress before conference play begins.
The roster also features players such as Dre'Shun Smith, Logan Woolsey, Sean Kraft, Rusty Bradley and George Johnson, while transfers Brayden Crain and Colby Fitzpatrick bring additional size and skill to the lineup.
Shiloh Mukendi has received offers from Eastern Michigan and Old Dominion, underscoring the growing recognition of his talents.
Beyond the field, the season's start coincides with a broader surge of interest in the NCISAA, as schools across the region look to leverage athletic success for increased visibility and recruitment.
With the season opener looming, coaches, players and fans alike are eager to see how these predictions will unfold on the gridiron.