HUNTSVILLE | Scott High’s 2026 home opener will wait just a few minutes longer than originally planned.
Athletic Director Morgan Boyatt announced Thursday morning that kickoff of Friday’s game against Monterey at Highlander Stadium has been pushed back to 8 p.m., due to heat.
Boyatt had previously said on Wednesday that there had been discussions about changing the game time, though she said the final decision might not come until near kickoff, and might be made by game officials.
The National Weather Service is forecasting a high temperature of 94 degrees Friday. That could result in a heat index of over 100 degrees.
Temperatures will begin to drop as sunset approaches, but are expected to still be well into the 80s at the originally-scheduled kickoff time, 7:30 p.m. By 8 p.m., the sun will be setting and temperatures will have dropped to more comfortable levels. A Heat Advisory that is in effect for the region is scheduled to expire at 8 p.m.
Boyatt said that the school is taking a number of precautions to combat the heat, and will utilize two wet-bulb devices to monitor the heat index throughout the day Friday.
“We are also preparing several cooling measures ahead of time, including coolers with ice, filled ice baths, pre-made ice bags, and additional cooling resources to ensure we are as prepared as possible for our athletes, coaches, officials, and staff,” she said Wednesday.
TSSAA’s heat policy places limits on practices and competition during times of extreme heat — including the cancelation of outdoor practices when the heat index is above 104 degrees. During games played in excessive heat, officials grant additional water breaks and timeouts — which is likely to be the case Friday night.
Oneida is scheduled to play at Bledsoe County Friday evening.
