Bristol, Virginia, September 19, 2025
News Summary
The historic rivalry between Virginia High Bearcats and Tennessee High Vikings resumes this Friday night, marking the 111th meeting. With Virginia High unbeaten and Tennessee High riding a significant victory, community excitement is palpable. Coaches emphasize discipline and fast-paced play, highlighting the importance of pride and legacy in this storied matchup. The action kicks off at Gene Malcom Stadium at 7:30 p.m., with live coverage starting at 7:00 p.m. Capturing local spirit, a pep rally has united supporters ahead of this highly anticipated game.
Bristol, Virginia – The highly anticipated annual football game between Virginia High, known as the Bearcats, and Tennessee High, known as the Vikings, returns on Friday night, marking the 111th meeting in a storied rivalry known locally as “The Big Game.” This event is important to the community as it rekindles a rivalry that has been on hiatus for six years.
Virginia High enters the game with an unbeaten record, showcasing their strong performance throughout the season. On the other hand, Tennessee High is coming off a commanding 35-0 victory against Cocke County last week, adding momentum to their preparation for this significant matchup. While the teams hold different records, this game transcends statistics, focusing on the pride and bragging rights associated with the local rivalry.
Tennessee High has the advantage of school size and roster depth, which are crucial elements in high school football. Coaches from both teams are aware of the challenges ahead. Virginia High’s head coach Derrick Patterson emphasizes the necessity for his players to maintain discipline and play at a fast pace to compete successfully against their rivals. Conversely, Tennessee High’s head coach Josh Holt highlights the excitement and anticipation felt throughout the community as game day nears.
Players from both teams are fueling the excitement as they prepare for this historic meeting. The competition has been notably dominated by Tennessee High, who has won the last eight contests against Virginia High, adding further significance to this year’s game for the Bearcats.
A community pep rally was hosted at Cumberland Square Park, bringing together both teams, bands, cheerleaders, and local supporters to celebrate the rivalry’s return. The vibrant atmosphere of the pep rally has further heightened the excitement leading up to the game.
The game is set to take place at Gene Malcom Stadium, Virginia High’s home turf, with a kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Live coverage of the event will begin at 7:00 p.m. on WCYB’s platforms, allowing fans unable to attend the game to stay engaged.
Key Game Details
- Date: Friday night
- Matchup: Virginia High Bearcats vs. Tennessee High Vikings
- Kickoff Time: 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Gene Malcom Stadium, Virginia High
- Live Coverage Starts: 7:00 p.m.
Rivalry Overview
This matchup, rich in tradition and community spirit, is more than just a game; it is a celebration of local pride. As both teams prepare to face off, the atmosphere around the event continues to build, reinforcing the importance of high school football in Bristol and the surrounding areas.
FAQ Section
What teams are playing in “The Big Game”?
The teams playing are Virginia High of the Bearcats and Tennessee High of the Vikings.
When is the game scheduled?
The game is scheduled for Friday night.
Where will the game take place?
The game will take place at Gene Malcom Stadium, Virginia High’s home.
What is the significance of this game?
This game marks the 111th meeting between the two teams, reigniting a rivalry that has been on hiatus for six years.
What are the records of the teams entering this game?
Virginia High enters the game unbeaten, while Tennessee High is coming off a 35-0 victory against Cocke County last week.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Teams | Virginia High Bearcats vs. Tennessee High Vikings |
| Game Date | Friday Night |
| Kickoff Time | 7:30 p.m. |
| Location | Gene Malcom Stadium |
| Live Coverage Start | 7:00 p.m. |
| Last Match Result | Tennessee High won 35-0 against Cocke County |
| Rivalry Record | Tennessee High has won the last eight encounters |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bristol Motor Speedway Honors Local Heroes
Christopher Bell Wins Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol
Virginia High vs. Tennessee High Rivalry Resumes
Community Pep Rally Celebrates High School Football Rivalry
Tennessee Women’s Tennis Team Advances to Super Regional
Tragic Rollover Crash on Interstate 81 in Bristol, Virginia
Abingdon and Bristol Highlight Local Arts and Community Events
Construction Underway for Historic MLB Speedway Classic
Braves and Reds to Make MLB History in Tennessee
MLB to Host Pregame Concert at Bristol Motor Speedway
Additional Resources
- WJHL: Big Game Preview
- Wikipedia: Bristol, Virginia
- WCYB: Bristol Community Comes Together
- Google Search: Virginia High vs Tennessee High football 2023
- The Tennessean: MLB Bristol Motor Speedway
- Google Scholar: Bristol High School football rivalry
- Sports Illustrated: Top 10 Virginia Tech Football Games
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennessee High School football
- WBIR: The Battle at Bristol
- Google News: Tennessee High vs Virginia High rivalry game
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
