Andrew Jackson Middle School Athletics
Knights Sports Information
Every student matters. Every moment counts.
Andrew Jackson Middle School students are encouraged to participate and explore the many athletic opportunities offered at our school to discover what they enjoy and to experience being a member of a team.
As students participate and learn new skills alongside their coaches - who are often also their teachers - students build positive relationships, skills, trust, and develop good fitness habits.
The official school site for up to date information on the Andrew Jackson Middle School Athletic Programs. Please scroll down for announcements and visit our informational pages for more information within the site. Thank you for your interest in our programs.
Fall Sports
Winter Sports
Spring Sports
Summer Sports
Summer Basketball Information
Cheer Information
AJMS Cheer
Coach: Ashley Skeens
Tuesday, June 18 – Flex Practice
Thursday, June 20 – Stunt Camp
Tuesday, June 25 – Flex Practice
Tuesday, July 9 – Flex Practice
Thursday, July 11 – Stunt Camp
Tuesday, July 16 – Flex Practice
Tuesday, July 23 – Flex Practice
Wednesday, August 7 – Flex Practice
Thursday, August 8 – Stunt Camp
Friday, August 9 – Flex Practice
Monday, August 12 – Tryout Clinic
Tuesday, August 13 – Tryouts
All flex practices will be held at AJMS from 4:00-6:00 p.m.
All stunt camps will be held at Tumble World (261 Staunton Ave. B South Charleston) from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The cost is $15 per session.
The tryout clinic and tryouts will be held at AJMS from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Skills and material taught at the tryout clinic will be used at tryouts.
Flex practices and stunt camps are not required but they are encouraged.
All participants must turn in a copy of a current physical dated after 05/01/24. A copy of your child’s insurance card is also required.
Middle School Team Sports
At the middle school level, participation and skill building are prioritized. Coaches encourage sixth, seventh, and eighth graders to participate and give their best effort in a competitive training environment. Andrew Jackson Middle School teams travel to compete with other middle schools in the Kanawha Valley.
Sports Physicals Can be Completed Now for Next Year
Calfe Chiropractic in Cross Lanes is offering free sports physicals through the end of the month for any student that might need one for next year.
Cross Country Announcement for Summer
There will be a XC meeting for anyone interested in running for AJ/Nitro XC in the Fall of 2024. Meeting will be on Wednesday, May 29th at 6:00 PM at Nitro High School in the commons to discuss summer workouts and what to expect in the Fall. Runners and parents should attend. Runners will get a run in afterwards, so please dress appropriately.
Participants must have a current WVSSAC physical dated May 1, 2024, or after and a printed copy of their insurance card to provide to the coach.
Girl's Soccer Sign Up - Fall 2024
If you are interested in playing girl’s Soccer for AJMS in the fall, please use the link to sign up.
Football - Get Ready for Next Year!
Weight lifting will begin the week of May 13th after school at the AJMS Field House on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Track Information
Track tryouts will begin February 26 - March 1, from 3:10 - 4:30 PM. We will meet in the gym, after walkers and riders are released. Students are to go immediately to the gym, change clothes, and wait for directions. All students should be dressed and ready by 3:10. Tryouts will end at 4:30 each day. Students must be picked up at 4:30.
All students must have a sports physical and insurance card to participate.
Please dress accordingly for the weather of the day.
Baseball Information
Baseball tryouts and practice begin next week. Students interested in trying out will need a WVSSAC physical exam and a current copy of insurance on file with the athletic director. Students are required to have a 2.0 GPA on their first semester report card. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
February 26 - Tryouts begin at On Deck in Nitro from 6-8 PM
February 27 - Tryouts/practice at AJ immediately after school until 5:30 PM
February 28 - Tryouts/practice at On Deck in Nitro from 6-8 PM.
Softball Information
Softball tryouts and practice begin next week. Students interested in trying out will need a WVSSAC physical exam and a current copy of insurance on file with the athletic director. Students are required to have a 2.0 GPA on their first semester report card. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
February 27 - Tryout/Practice at the Hit House from 6-8 PM
February 28 - Practice at the Hit House from 5-7 PM.
February 29 - Practice Nitro High School 7:30 - 9 PM
March 1 - Practice On Deck from 5-6:30 PM
March 2 - Practice Nitro High School 11-1 PM
Girls Basketball Tournament Continues into Thursday
Girl’s Basketball Tournament Information
AJMS Girls Basketball Team advances to the next round of tournament play with their win Wednesday night against Hayes (31-16). The Lady Knights will play Thursday night at 6:30 PM against Charleston Catholic. Game information can be found below.
AJ fans should be seated on the side across the floor from the players for Thursday night’s game. We are the “away” team for this event.
Tournament Information:
All games will be played at WVSU
The higher seeded team will be the home team.
The home team will wear white uniforms
The home team stands will be behind the players benches
Spectators are not permitted on the floor at any time
Cost of admission is $7.00
NO PASS OUTS - If you leave the building you will be required to pay to re-enter
Tickets can be purchased online at:
http://kcmsathletics.com/tickets
The total cost for an online ticket is $8.55
They are $7.00 at the door.
Please remember we are guests in the WVSU Facility. In order to continue using this location for tournaments, we are expected to treat others and the facility with respect at all times.
Softball Coach Needed
AJMS is currently interviewing for the 2024 Softball Coach. Successful applicant needs to have softball coaching experience, WVSSAC coaching classes completed, or be currently employed with a teaching permit. Please express your interest by calling the school's main office and speak with Dr. Donohoe, Principal.
Junior Varsity Holiday Basketball Tournament - This Weekend
AJMS hosts McKinley Middle, John Adams Middle, and Hurricane Middle School this Friday and Saturday for the annual JV Holiday Basketball Tournament. Games on Friday begin at 4:30 PM and on Saturday at 10:00 AM. Tickets - $6.00.
Basketball Tryouts Announced
Girls basketball tryouts will begin Monday, October 30 from 3:15 - 5:00 PM through Wednesday, November 1st. The team will begin practices after school on Thursday from 3:15 - 5:00 PM.
Boys basketball tryouts will begin Tuesday, November 7 for 6th and 7th graders, and Wednesday, November 8 for 8th graders from 5:00 - 6:30 PM. Call backs for final selection will occur on Thursday, November 9 from 5:00 - 6:30 PM.
Student athletes who wish to tryout must have a current physical on file with the athletic director and a copy of proof of insurance. If you have not already participated in fall sports and have that information on file - it must be brought to the tryout. Without these documents you will not be able to tryout.
Student Athlete Insurance Information
Please visit the link below to purchase student athlete supplemental insurance.
Boys Soccer Information
Boys soccer practice will begin on August 7 from 5:30 - 7:00 PM. Tryouts will take place during the first week of practice. Athletes interested in soccer must have a 2.0 GPA, a current physical exam, and proof of insurance (bring a printed copy of your insurance card). Please bring appropriate clothes/shoes and water/Gatorade.
Volleyball Updates for Summer
Additional Flex days have been scheduled for volleyball:
August 8- 6:00-8:00
August 9- 6:00-8:00
August 10- 6:00-8:00
Tryouts-
August 14- 3:30-5:30
Summer Conditioning
Summer Conditioning Window Dates - July 10 - 28, 2023
Various sports will host summer conditioning during the time period of July 10-28, 2023. Please check this website for announcements of the dates/locations. Information will be published when the dates are determined by the individual coaches. If you do not see a specific sport listed, there may not be conditioning planned for the summer.
All athletes who wish to participate in summer conditioning must have a current physical exam dated after May 1, 2023, and a copy of current medical insurance. Student athletes who participate on a team in the Fall are required to have a 2.0 GPA for the 2nd semester of the past school year.
Girl's Soccer - July 10th from 9:30-11:00 AM at AJMS field. Additional dates will be provided at the first practice in July.
Boy's Soccer - Conditioning will take place on Tuesday/Thursday evenings from 6:00 - 7:30 PM between July 10-28, 2023.
Volleyball - Conditioning will take place at the AJMS gymnasium. Please bring tennis shoes for the gym floor.
July 17 6:00-8:00 PM
July 18 6:00-8:00 PM
July 19 6:00-8:00 PM
July 20 6:00-8:00 PM
July 24 6:00-8:00 PM
July 25 6:00-8:00 PM
July 26 6:00-8:00 PM
July 27 6:00-8:00 PM
Spring Sports Awards
Due to the county track meet scheduled for Tuesday, May 16, the AJMS Spring Sports Awards program has been moved to Wednesday evening, May 17 at 6:00 PM in the AJ Auditorium. Light refreshments available following the program.
County Tournament Dates for Spring 2023
Tennis - Monday, May 8
Baseball - Tuesday/Wednesday, May 9-10 - Shawnee Sports Fields
Softball - Thursday/Friday, May 11-12 - Elkview Middle School Fields. Update - Due to weather concerns, the tournament will be Wednesday/Thursday.
Track - Tuesday, May 16 - Laidley Field
Spring Sport Picture Makeup Date Established
The photographer will be here on Wednesday morning, April 5, to take any makeup spring sports pictures. Students should arrive dressed for photographs. He will be here at 8:00 AM. There will not be any additional dates due to yearbook deadlines.
Baseball Tryouts
Tryouts will begin Monday, February 27, at On Deck in Nitro from 6-8:00 PM. Tuesday, February 28, tryouts will be at the AJ field after school until 5:00 PM. The schedule for March 1, will be given to the tryout participants on Tuesday based upon the predicted weather. All participants will need a current physical and copy of current insurance card in order to participate.
Upcoming Events
Athletic Support Meeting - Tuesday, February 28 at 5:00 PM in the AJMS Commons
Winter Sports Awards Program - Tuesday, February 28 at 6:00 PM in the Auditorium
Track/Tennis Tryout Information
Girls and Boys Track and Tennis tryouts will begin on Monday, February 27, 2023, and will be held directly after school from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. Students are not to leave the school premises before coming to tryouts.
Have copy of a physical and insurance card if
Currently have a 2.0 GPA
Dress appropriately for the weather of the day and adhere to county dress code standards. Please leave clothes and equipment in the auditorium when you arrive at school.
All students must be picked up at 5:00 p.m.
Girls Basketball Team Wins County Championship
2023 Girls Basketball Champions
Andrew Jackson Middle School
Girls Basketball Team Wins County Championship
AJMS 37 - Westside 28
Congratulations to our girls, their parents, families, and
Coach Beakes and Coach Woodrum!
Basketball Tournament Information for Fans
Tickets are $7.00.
The home teams fans will sit behind the scorers table.
The home team will sit to the left of the scorers table and the visiting team to the right
Doors for fans will open at 2:30 on Wednesday, 6:00 on Thursday and Friday
Fans need to sit in the bleachers. No one will be permitted on the gym floor before, during or after the games.
Spring Sports Flex Practice Announced
Baseball - Flex practices will be held on February 7, 8, 10, 13, 16, 17 after school until 5:00 PM on the football field/track. Any student interested in participation will need a current physical exam and a copy of current incurance card in order to particapte. Please come dress appropriate for outdoor weather including equipment.
Softball - Flex practices will be held at On Deck in Nitro starting at 4 PM and ending at 5:30 or 6 o’clock. The dates will be 1/30/23, 2/2/23, 2/6/23, 2/8/23, 2/13/23, 2/15/23. The address to On Deck is 2003 20th St ., Nitro ,WV, 25143 . It is located above the war museum. Please make sure if you plan to come you have transportation available to get to and from flex practice. A lso please make sure you have an updated physical form and a copy of current insurance card to be eligible for flex practice.
Winter Sports Photos Scheduled
Josh Hanna Photography will be here on Thursday, December 8, 2022, to take individual and team photos for winter sports. Coaches will provide players with an informational letter and order forms during practices this week.
Basketball Information
Practice and tryouts begin soon for both girls and boys basketball. Please check back soon for dates and times of tryouts.
Boys Schedule
11/7 Monday 3:00 - 5:00 PM 8th Graders Only Tryouts
11/8 Tuesday No School
11/9 Wednesday 3:00 - 5:00 PM 6th and 7th Graders Only Tryouts
11/10 Thursday 3:00 - 5:00 PM Call backs and missed 1st day Tryouts
11/11 Friday No School
11/12 8:00 - 10:00 AM Practice
Girls Schedule
10/31 Monday No practice
11/01 Tuesday 7:00 to 8:30pm Tryouts
11/02 Wednesday 3:30 to 5:00pm Tryouts
11/03 Thursday No practice
11/04. Friday 3:30 to 5:00pm
11/05. Saturday 10:00am to 12:00pm
Fall Sports Awards Program and Athletic Support Meeting
Tuesday, November 1 - 5:00 PM Athletic Support Meeting (Winter Sports)
Tuesday, November 1 - 6:00 PM Fall Sports Awards Program in the Auditorium. Light refreshments provided in the Commons following the program.
Volleyball and Soccer Tournaments Begins
Volleyball and soccer teams begin tournament play this week. Come out and support the teams!
Monday (10/24) - Volleyball AJ vs Elkview at Elkview at 5:00 PM.
Tuesday (10/25) - Soccer begins at Shawnee Field with girl's soccer at 5:00 PM with AJ vs JA on Field #1 and boy's soccer AJ vs SC at 5:30 PM on Field #2.
Boys Basketball Flex Practices Announced
Boys basketball flex practices will be held on the following dates and times. Any athlete wanting to participate, must have a current physical on file with the school and bring a copy of proof of insurance.
Flex Days & Times
10/14/2022 Time 3:30-5:30
10/15/2022 Time 12:15-2:30
10/12/2022. Time 3:30-5:30
10/13/2022. Time 8:00-9:45
10/28/2022. Time 3:30-5:30
10/29/2022. Time 8:00-9:45
11/4/2022 Time 3:30-5:30
11/5/2022. Time 8:00-9:45
Girls Basketball Flex Practices Announced
Girls basketball flex practices will be held this Saturday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Tryouts will begin on October 31st through November 2nd. Any athlete wanting to tryout, must have a current physical on file with the school and bring a copy of proof of insurance.
Make Up Pictures on Tuesday, October 11 at 8:00 AM for Fall Sports Photos
Fall Sports Picture Date Announced
Please see the attached links for information and order forms for fall sports photos on Thursday, September 29, 2022.
Volleyball Team Store
Fall Sports Start Dates
Flex plans and tryout dates will be announced by coaches. Information will post here when available.
Please note that any student wishing to participate in tryouts/sports must have a current physical exam dated May 1st or after and a printed copy of proof of insurance. If you do not have these documents you will not be permitted to participate.
Football - Start Date is August 8. Please make sure to join the AJMS Football Schoology group to receive updates and announcements.
Soccer (Boys & Girls) - Start Date is August 8.
Volleyball - Start Date is August 15. Tryouts will be held August 15-18 from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM in the AJ Gym. Entrance is located on the sidewalk leading to the athletic field.
Cheer - Start date for those interested in tryouts will be Tuesday, August 16. Time 3:30 - 4:45 PM in the AJ gym.
Cross Country - Start Date is August 1.
Summer Conditioning Information
The summer conditioning three-week window established for Kanawha County is July 11 - 29. Please continue to check back here for specific information about conditioning times and locations.
All athletes planning to participate in summer conditioning must have a current physical exam dated after May 1st and a copy of current medical insurance. The West Virginia Secondary Schools Activity Physical Form can be printed from the link below.
WVSSAC Sports Physical Form Download
Football Summer Conditioning Schedule
Girls' Soccer Summer Conditioning - July 11-29 on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 6:00 - 8:00 PM on the athletic field.
Volleyball Summer Conditioning - July 11-29 on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 6:00 - 8:00 PM in the gymnasium.
Boys' Soccer Summer Conditioning - Coach Jordan would like interested athletes to use the link provided below to sign up for soccer. He will determine the conditioning schedule and provide those who request information with dates, location, time, etc.
Cheerleading Conditioning - Attention- This event has been canceled due to lack of interest. Saturday, July 16 from 4:00 - 5:30 PM. Please contact Coach Morris at blmorris@mail.kana.k12.wv.us to register. There is a gym fee for this session of $20. Pre-registration is necessary for participation.
Cross Country
Cross Country 3 week period will run July 11-July 29. All runners must bring a copy of sports physical and a copy of insurance. Practice days/times will be:
Week 1: Tuesday, 7/12, Thursday, 7/14, Friday, 7/15 6:00pm at Ridenour Lake in Nitro
Week 2:Tuesday, 7/19, Thursday, 7/21, Friday, 7/22 6:00pm at Ridenour Lake in Nitro
Week 3: Monday, 7/25, Tuesday, 7/26, Thursday, 7/28, Friday 7/29 at Ridenour Lake in Nitro
Official Practice starts Tuesday, August 2nd. Please bring water to practice.
Spring Sports Awards Program
Please join us for the Spring Sports Awards program on Tuesday, May 17 at 6:00 PM in the AJMS Auditorium. Following the program, there will be light refreshments available in the Commons area.
Football Planning Meeting Scheduled - April 19
Football Meeting
Parents and athletes (grades 5-7) interested in playing for the middle school next Fall are invited to a football planning meeting on Tuesday, April 19 in the Andrew Jackson Middle School Commons area at 6:00 PM. Coaches will share their plans for upcoming Flex practices for current grades 6-7 to be held in May, and for July summer conditioning for grades 6-8 (this includes 5th graders promoted to middle school) at the end of this year. School starts in August along with the Fall football season.
Our coaches and Athletic Director will be available to answer questions regarding athletic safety protocols and provide information on sports physicals and requirements for participation.
Our team is growing and we hope you will join us!
Join Now: https://forms.gle/gKPT4G6vBYSLt3rBA
Coach Halstead – Teacher/Coach
Coach Baines – Retired/Coach
Robert (Bob) Simmons – Athletic Director/Retired Teacher/Coach
Be sure to join our Schoology Football Group. Information about practices, schedules, and announcements are posted for parents/athletes.
https://kanawha.schoology.com/
(Use student credentials to log in)
Click on the Groups Tab, followed by “My Groups” on the upper right of the screen. On the right of the screen in “My Groups” enter this code JSDW8-WG7M3 to join the group. Call the school if you need assistance in joining the online Schoology group. We are happy to assist!
Follow our Andrew Jackson Middle School Athletics Knights Sports Information website for information and announcements throughout the summer and school year at:
https://sites.google.com/mail.kana.k12.wv.us/andrew-jackson-knights-sports/home
Spring Sports Photos - Monday, April 4th
Spring sports photos for baseball, softball, track, and tennis will be on:
Monday, April 4 at 12:30 PM in the Auditorium
Please note that Ms. Miller will be taking Spring Sport group photos on this same day which will appear in the yearbook. Team members and coaches will need to be dressed in full uniform, including shoes for this photo. There will not be a make up for this group shot due to the yearbook deadline.
So nice to see baseball return to play on the AJMS baseball field! Our players, parents, and coaches have done a wonderful job getting the field ready and it looked wonderful this evening - even in the freezing cold! Unfortunately, we were not the winners this evening, but we will be better next time.
Spring Sports Photos Scheduled
Spring Sports team and individual photos will be taken at school on the afternoon of Monday, April 4, 2022. We would like to encourage parents to place an order with the photographer for photo packages. The photographer provides our school with the opportunity to waive any set up fees if we are able to achieve a minimum number of package orders. This helps keep the costs reasonable for our parents and is a great savings for our teams! The photographer we have selected is Mr. Josh Hanna. We are excited to be able to support a local business located in Cross Lanes, WV. We believe that Mr. Hanna’s work is high quality, reasonably priced, and will represent our students, team, and school well. Photo purchases are not a requirement, but we hope that you will join us in support of our teams by making a package purchase. Please feel free to visit the photographer’s website at the address below to view the sample quality you can expect to receive with your child’s photos.
JoshuaHannaPhotography.com
Thank you for your support!
Spring Sport group photos for the yearbook will also be taken on the same day – players will need to be dressed in full uniform, including athletic shoes.
Tennis Online Store
Please support the AJ tennis teams by purchasing AJ and AJ tennis items from the AJ tennis store. All orders must be made by March 13th. Thank you for your support.
AJ tennis store link:
https://knights-tennis-2022.itemorder.com/shop/sale/
Track Online Store
Please support the AJ track teams by purchasing AJ and AJ track items from the AJ track store. All orders must be made by March 13th. Thank you for your support.
AJ track store link:
Athletic Support Meeting
Spring sports and information sharing with incoming 6th grade students/families will be the focus of the upcoming Athletic Support meeting on Tuesday, March 1, at 5:00 PM in the school Commons. Please consider joining us.
Spring Sports
Softball - Tryouts will start on February 28. There will be three (3) days for tryouts which will start right after school and last until 5:00 PM. All girls need to bring their own equipment, batting helmet, bat, glove and shoes. Girls are required to have a current physical and a copy of their insurance card before they are allowed to participate. All girls need to have a 2.0 GPA.
Baseball - Baseball players will meet on the field at 3:30 PM on February 28. Wear long sleeves, cleats, and a jacket. Bring a glove, and a bat/helmet. Insurance and physical if they have not played any sports to this point this school year. All boys need to have a 2.0 GPA.
Tennis - Tennis practice will be from 3:30 -5:00 PM during the week of February 28th. If you have not participated in a sport for the school this year, you will need to bring your physical form and a copy of your insurance card. Bring clothes to conduct practice inside or outside. We will practice outdoors whenever possible, but there may be times when we need to practice indoors. Tryouts will be on Monday and Tuesday.
Track - Track practice will be from 5:00 - 6:00 PM during the week of February 28th. If you have not participated in a sport for the school this year, you will need to bring your physical form and a copy of your insurance card. Bring clothes to conduct practice inside or outside. We will practice outdoors whenever possible, but there may be times when we need to practice indoors. Tryouts will be on Monday and Tuesday.
Middle School Girls Basketball Tournament
Thursday - February 10 at West Side Middle School
5:15 #4 Andrew Jackson vs #5 Charleston Catholic
6:45 #1 West Side vs. #8 Sissonville
Thursday - February 10 at McKinley Middle School
4:30 #3 John Adams vs #6 Elkview
Make Up Winter Sports Photos
Mr. Hanna will be at AJ on Friday, February 4, at 1:30 PM to do make up pictures for any athlete who missed the photos last Friday. Students who need a makeup photo can order packages online at the following link and will need their uniform for the picture on February 4th.
https://www.joshuahannaphotography.com/sports-teams
Wrestling Quad - January 19
The AJMS wrestling team will host a quad meet on Wednesday, January 19, with weigh in beginning at 5:00 PM in the AJMS gym. Eighth grade wrestlers will also be recognized during the meet. Please come out and support our team!
Winter Sports Photos
Winter team and individual photos will be taken at school on the afternoon of Friday, January 21, 2022. We would like to encourage parents to place an order with the photographer for photo packages. The photographer provides our school with the opportunity to waive any set up fees if we are able to achieve a minimum number of package orders. This helps keep the costs reasonable for our parents and is a great savings for our teams! The photographer we have selected is Mr. Josh Hanna. We are excited to be able to support a local business located in Cross Lanes, WV. We believe that Mr. Hanna’s work is high quality, reasonably priced, and will represent our students, team, and school well. Photo purchases are not a requirement, but we hope that you will join us in support of our teams by making a package purchase. Please feel free to visit the photographer’s website at the address below to view the sample quality you can expect to receive with your child’s photos.
JoshuaHannaPhotography.com
Thank you for your support!
AJMS Wrestling Team Competes in the Sissonville Wrestling Tournament
Fall Sports Awards Program
Please join us for the Fall Sports Awards program on Tuesday, November 30, at 6:00 PM in the AJMS Auditorium. Following the program, there will be a reception in the Commons area.
Boys Basketball Update for November 8
Please note that due to scheduling of our winter sports activities using the gymnasium, boys basketball tryouts will begin on Monday, November 8, after school from 3:30 - 5:15 PM. Coach Haynes will provide the remainder of the week's schedule to attendees.
Girls Soccer Team Named Regular Season Runner Up in Kanawha County Middle School Conference
Winter Sports Information
Boys Basketball – Flex conditioning will take place from 6:00 – 8:00 PM beginning Tuesday, October 26 – Saturday, November 6. Conditioning will not be scheduled for Sundays.
Boys Basketball Tryouts – November 8-11 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. Any student trying out must have a current physical exam on file with the AD for this school year and have a copy of current proof of insurance.
Girls Basketball Tryouts – November 1-3 from 3:30 – 5:30 PM. Any student trying out must have a current physical exam on file with the AD for this school year and have a copy of current proof of insurance.
Wrestling - Please complete the information on the survey if you are interested in wrestling.
November 8 - 12 - Practice will be at the AJMS Field House at 4:30 PM. Any student trying out must have a current physical exam on file with the AD for this school year and have a copy of current proof of insurance.
Support Our Teams in the Tournaments This Week - October 25-27
VOLLEYBALL - Matches played at the Walker Convocation Center at WVSU
Monday, October 25th
7:00pm - (4) Andrew Jackson vs. (5) Elkview
GIRLS SOCCER - Games played at Shawnee Sports Complex (Field 1 - Without Football Markings)
Monday, October 25th
7:00 pm - (2) Andrew Jackson vs. (3) John Adams
BOYS SOCCER - Games played at Shawnee Sports Complex
Monday, October 25th
5:30 pm - (1) John Adams vs. (4) Andrew Jackson
Wrestling Interest Survey
Please complete the information on the survey if you are interested in wrestling.
Baseball Flex Days Scheduled
Baseball Flex practices will be held Friday 10/15, and Monday-Wednesday 10/18-10/20, from 5:30-8:00 PM at the AJ baseball field. More dates to follow throughout the fall. Students must bring a copy of their proof of insurance and a current physical, or they will not be allowed to participate. Current athletes should already have one on file. There are NO exceptions to this rule.
Please come prepared with a glove, ball hat, bat, helmet, and cleats. Cleats are preferred, but not required for flex. Prospective catchers are encouraged to bring their catchers gear. There will be a parent meeting after Friday’s 10/15 practice at 8:00 PM, which will last around 10-15 minutes.
AJMS vs McKinley Football Photos Courtesy of Eric Steele
AJMS Soccerama Photographs Courtesy of Eric Steel
Girls Basketball Flex Days Announced
Flex days are scheduled for September 25, October 9, and October 23rd. Girls interested must have a current physical exam and a copy of a valid insurance card on file with the Athletic Director. See Coach Beakes in school if you need additional information.
Fall Sports Photos - Make Up Scheduled
The photographer will be at AJMS for the volleyball team and for make up fall sports photos on Monday, September 20, at 1:30 PM. This will be the only day photo make ups will be offered in order to appear in the team photo.
On this day, we celebrate a special occasion – the 50th anniversary of our school. When Andrew Jackson Junior High opened on August 30, 1971, 675 students walked in the door for the first time with a red carpet welcome. The cost of the new school was $1.7 million dollars. Here we are now, 50 years later remembering our history and looking forward to our school’s future. What makes a school? Is it the classrooms, the lunchroom, the bricks and blocks? No, it’s the students, teachers, staff, and community who are the culture of the school. We say thank you to our alumni, whose legacy established many of our AJ traditions, and for those who have graduated and gone on to help build our community and our world. Now we, the student body, staff, and community are building the future of Andrew Jackson Middle School and setting the path for the next 50 years.
Rhonda L. Donohoe, Ed.D. - Principal
Fall Sports Photos Scheduled
Fall team and individual photos will be taken at school on Tuesday, August 31, in the afternoon. Students will need to bring uniforms and related sports equipment for the photo session. Please see the attached letter with details and examples of the photographers work, along with the order form.
Team Vaccinate Incentive
The Kanawha County Commission has invited our fall school teams to participate in a financial
incentive program to reward school teams who achieve a 90% vaccination rate. The West Virginia Secondary Schools Activities Commission has determined that if a student-athlete is exposed to Covid-19, but is vaccinated, they do not have to quarantine. This voluntary program will provide rewards to bands, cheer squads, and athletic teams. Students who are under the age of 12, and not eligible for the vaccination, will not count against the 90% vaccination rate, but should still be included in Team Vaccinate. Please help your school team in achieving the 90% vaccination rate by having your parents complete the Team Roster Form below. All information provided remains confidential.
Volleyball Fundraiser
The girls volleyball team has an online portal to order volleyball gear. This is a great way to support your school team and show your team spirit. The portal is open through August 29. Orders will be delivered approximately September 10th.
Soccer Fundraiser
The boys and girls soccer teams have an online store to purchase items to help support the team. If you are interested in purchasing any of these items please use the link below.
The last day to order items is August 22nd and it will take approximately 2 weeks to receive your items after the store has closed. Thank you for your support.
Athletic Support Meeting - Fall
The fall Athletic Support meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 24, at 5:30 PM in the school commons. Parents are invited to attend and meet with the athletic director, administration, coaches, and other parents to plan and discuss the upcoming fall athletic season, fundraising, and dates for special events such as 8th Grade Night, homecoming week, and fall sports award programs.
Fall Sports Information
Fall sports tryouts and practices begin on the dates indicated below. All athletes are required to bring a completed sports physical, unless one is already on file with the Athletic Director from summer conditioning. Additionally, athletes will need to bring a copy of current insurance coverage. Students who do not have insurance may purchase it for the season at a very reasonable cost. Please see the coach, or AD, for more information.
Athletes should arrive to tryouts, or practices, on time and as outlined by the coach. Athletes are not permitted to leave school grounds to visit local businesses between the end of school day and the start of tryouts, or practice. Please bring appropriate clothes and shoes to workout in for the sport, along with any necessary equipment. Sports bags should be labeled with the athlete’s name and are stored for the day in a common location across from the office. Bring a snack if needed, and plenty of water. Water containers should be labeled with the athlete’s name.
Cross Country - August 2
Football - August 9
Cheer - August 9
Soccer (Boys and Girls) - August 9
Volleyball - August 16
WVSSAC Sports Physical Form Download
Volleyball
Volleyball tryouts will begin on Monday, August 16, through Tuesday, August 17 immediately after school in the gym from 4:00 – 6:00 PM. Athletes selected for the team will practice the remainder of the week (Aug.18-20) from 4:00 – 6:00 PM. Bring water, knee pads, and tennis shoes. The coach will communicate the practice schedule and game schedule for the remainder of the season to players and parents.
Boys’ Soccer
Boys soccer will practice starting August 9 in the evening from 5:30-7-30 PM, M-F, for the first two weeks. The coach will communicate practice schedules for the remainder of the season to players and parents. Boys will need shin guards, soccer cleats, and a water thermos labeled with the player’s name with plenty of fluids. Boys should also wear a white shirt to practice in. Athletes should be conditioning on their own to get ready for the startup of the season.
Girls’ Soccer
Girls soccer tryouts will begin on August 9 at the AJMS field. Tryouts will be from 5:30-7:30 PM on Monday and Tuesday. JV players selected for the team will practice from 3:30-5:30 PM and varsity will practice from 5:30-7:30 PM. Players should bring shin guards, a size 5 soccer ball, running shoes, and cleats. Also be sure to bring a water thermos, labeled with your name, with plenty of fluids.
Football Practice Schedule
Players will dismiss with the “all remaining students” end of the day announcement and report directly to the field house. The football team will practice on one side of the athletic field (the side closest to the field house) and the remaining half will be available to the boys, or girls soccer team.
August 9th – August 13th: 3:30-5:30 (Helmet only)
August 16th – August 20th: 3:30-5:30
August 23rd – August 27th: 3:30-5:30
August 30th – September 1st: 3:30-5:30
September 2nd is the first game.
Cross Country (Boys and Girls)
Cross Country practice will begin Aug. 2nd. Please meet at Ridenour Lake at 6:00pm in Nitro. Athletes must have a sports physical and copy of insurance in order to practice. Please wear comfortable clothes and running shoes. You also need to bring your own water. We will not have a shared water cooler.
Cheer
Clinics: Monday through Wednesday, August 9-11th from 3:30-5:00 PM.
Meet in the gym appropriately dressed and ready by 3:30.
Hair must be pulled back and clothing must be traditional cheer clothing and shoes.
Tryouts will begin at 3:30 on Thursday, August 12th.
Bring a hard copy (xerox) of the front and back of your insurance card and your recent physical from your doctor. You will NOT be allowed to participate without these documents.
Additional fall sports information will post here when it is received.
Summer Conditioning/Flex Schedules Announced
Summer conditioning and flex practices will be announced as information becomes available from the coaches. Students in grades 6-8 for the 2021-2022 school year may participate with a current physical exam and proof of current insurance. Students who are new to the area and have not enrolled in the school cannot participate until residency verification and enrollment in the school are satisfied. Students should arrive ready to condition/practice, dressed accordingly for the sport, and have plenty of water, or sports drink, for proper hydration. If you do not see information about a specific sport, please continue to check this site as coaches release information.
Football
Athletes who attend must have a current physical exam and a copy of proof of insurance.
July 6- 9 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
July 12-16 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
July 19-23 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Girls' Soccer
Athletes who attend must have a current physical exam and a copy of proof of insurance.
July 12 - 15 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM
July 19-22 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM
July 26 -29 (Flex Practices) from 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Boys' Soccer
Update 07/08/21 - Coach Jordan has added a few additional summer conditioning dates for next week. Monday and Tuesday, July 12-13 from 9:00 - 11:00 AM at Nitro High School football field, and Wednesday, July 14 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at the AJMS field.
Boys Soccer Flex practices are scheduled for Monday, June 28 and Tuesday, June 29 from 9:00 – 11:00 AM. Flex practices will be held at the Nitro High School football field. Athletes who attend must have a current physical exam and a copy of proof of insurance. Please contact Coach Jordan at (304) 541-1378, if more information is needed.
Boys Basketball
Athletes who attend must have a current physical exam and a copy of proof of insurance.
July 5 - 9 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM
July 12-16 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM
July 19-23 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Girls Basketball
Athletes who attend must have a current physical exam and a copy of proof of insurance.
July 12 - 15 from 12:00 - 2:00 PM
Additional days may be added/determined by the coach.
Cross County (Boys and Girls)
These practices are optional. A sports physical and copy of insurance is required to participate. Please bring your own water, wear comfortable clothes and wear running shoes.
Week 1
Monday, July 5th 8:30am at Ridenour Lake
Wednesday, July 7th 8:30am at Ridenour Lake
Thursday, July 8th 8:30am at Ridenour Lake
Week 2
Monday, July 12th 8:30am at Ridenour Lake
Wednesday, July 14th 8:30am at Ridenour Lake
Thursday, July 15th 8:30am at Ridenour Lake
Week 3
Monday, July 19th 8:30am at Ridenour Lake
Wednesday, July 21st 8:30am at Ridenour Lake
Thursday, July 22nd 8:30am at Ridenour Lake
1st Official Practice will be Monday, August 2nd.
More details to come closer to season.
Volleyball
These practices are optional. A sports physical and copy of insurance is required to participate. Please bring your own water, and wear appropriate clothes for volleyball in the gym.
Monday, July 19 from 9:00 - 11:00 AM
Wednesday, July 21 from 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Thursday, July 22 from 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Friday, July 23 from 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Cheer
No summer sessions. Tryouts will be held in August after school resumes.
Summer Conditioning
Dates are July 6 – July 24
Coaches will provide additional information which will be published on this site when available. Student athletes will need a current physical exam dated May 1 or after and a copy of current insurance.
Football Planning Meeting Scheduled
There will be a football planning meeting on Monday, May 3rd at 6:00 PM in the AJMS Commons area. Please see the attached informational flyer and link to sign up for the Fall Team!
Winter/Spring Athletic Pictures Make Up Day
The photographer will be at AJMS on Friday, April 30th from 8:00 – 9:00 AM to complete make up pictures for any athlete who missed the picture day on April 15th. Please come dressed for your photo on picture day. You may order photo packages online at https://www.joshuahannaphotography.com/sports-teams
Winter and Spring Athletic Pictures
Winter and Spring team photos are coming up on Thursday, April 15th and we would like to encourage you to place an order for team and individual photos. Coaches have shared information with their team members regarding pricing and ordering of various packages.
We have selected a local photographer in order to further support our community and local business owners. We believe this photographer is able to achieve the high standard of quality needed to represent our students, team, and school well. As always, photo purchases are not a requirement, but we do hope that you will support our team(s) by making a purchase.
Please feel free to visit the photographer’s website at the address below to view samples of the quality you can expect to receive with your child’s photos.
It Takes a Village
After baseball practice this morning a group of us stayed and worked on the baseball field. I am so appreciative of the parents and players that put in their own time and helped the program continue to grow and get better. Thank you so much! - Coach Inglish
Track and Tennis Gear Available
Anyone interested in purchasing AJ or AJ Tennis gear may do so using the following link. The Boys' Tennis team will be wearing either the cotton blend or the dri-fit shirt as their uniform.
https://knightstennis-2021.itemorder.com/sale
Anyone interested in purchasing AJ or AJ Track gear may do so using the following link.
https://ajmstrack-2021.itemorder.com/sale
Ordering will close on April 4th.
Spring Sports Information
Spring sports, which include baseball, softball, track, and tennis may begin practices on March 22. If an interested student has not already participated in a sport this school year, the student will need to have a physical exam and copy of a current insurance policy. Sport physical forms are available in the main office and on the West Virginia Secondary Schools Activities Commission website. Sport specific information will be shared by coaches in school and on this website closer to the date practices may begin.
Physical Form Downloadable Form
Softball Information:
Update - March 19. Softball tryouts start Monday 3/22/21. Practice is from 3:30pm to 5:00pm. Practice will be outside, so dress appropriately. Players must bring their own equipment; bats, glove, helmet, etc. All must have a physical and insurance card on file with the school. Practice will be at the AJ. Report to the gym.
Softball practice and tryouts will start on March 22. Anyone interest in trying out must have a 2.0 GPA. Girls will need to have their own equipment (gloves, cleats, bats, etc.). There will be no sharing of equipment due to Covid. Face coverings are required at all times except in the course of play on the field. Face coverings must be worn correctly and social distancing will be enforced. For those that have not participated in any other sport this year, you must have a current physical form completed and a copy of your insurance card on file with the Athletic Director of the school. Games can start as early as April 12th. Please bring your own water in a labeled bottle with your name to all practices and games.
Virtual Archery: Andrew Jackson is going to participate in its first ever virtual Archery Competition. There will be a voluntary practice on March 8th, right after school, for those students interested in competing. The competition will take place on March 15th right after school. We will have a few rounds of shooting to warm up and then we will record the scores. You will need to bring $10 on March 15th in order to compete.
Please complete the survey below if you are planning to participate.
Tennis Information: Boys and girls tennis practice will begin on March 22 after school. Practice will be from 3:30 - 5:00 PM. Students who wish to participate must have a 2.0 GPA and have a current physical exam form on file at the school, or in hand when they show up for practice. Students will also need a copy of a current insurance card/policy. Coaches recommend that students begin conditioning on their own before March 22.
Track Information: Boys and girls track practice will begin March 22nd. Practice will start at 4:30 PM and end at 5:30 PM. Students would be expected to go home after school and then return for practice. Participants may not remain after school, or “hang out” around the community and then return. Students who wish to participate must have a 2.0 GPA and have a current physical on file at the school, or in hand when they show up for practice. Students will also need a proof of insurance copy. Track meets will be limited for number of teams and number of participants this year. Track meets are held after school and are usually at Laidley Field and run until about 9:00 PM.
WVSSAC Update on Non-Participation Rule for Winter/Spring Sports
Winter Sports Update
Following an executive order from the Governor on November 13, winter sports will be delayed until January 11, 2021. Currently all practices and athletic competitions are canceled until January. Additional details regarding winter sports will be communicated by coaches.
Update January 2021 - The Governor extended the delay of winter sports until March 1, 2021.
Update February 2021 - Winter sports will be starting very soon. Team members will be receiving information regarding conditioning, practices, and schedules in the next few days from their coaches.
Attendance will be limited to parents, grandparents, and household members for all winter sports contests. If school is canceled, all practices and games are canceled.
Boys' Basketball Tryout Information
Boys’ basketball season is fast approaching. Tryouts will start November 9th (Monday). There will be two days of tryouts. All boys must have a current physical exam and copy of a current insurance card in order to participate in the tryouts. Athletes will not be permitted on the gym floor without those two documents on file at the school. Please fill out the Google form and submit indicating your interest.
Boys Flex Practice - November 5 at 6:00 PM
Boys Flex Practice - November 6 at 6:00 PM
Boys Tryouts - November 9 from 3:30 to 5:00 PM.
Boys Tryouts - November 10 from 3:30 to 5:00 PM.
Girls' Basketball Tryout Information
Girls’ basketball season is just around the corner. Tryouts will start November 2nd (Monday). There will be three days of tryouts. All girls must have a current physical exam and copy of a current insurance card in order to participate in the tryouts. Athletes will not be permitted on the gym floor without those two documents on file at the school. Please fill out the Google form and submit indicating your interest.
Volleyball Gear Online Store - August 25
Soccer Fundraiser
Help support our boys and girls soccer teams by purchasing a face mask with our school logo! Orders close on August 5th.
Athlete Insurance and Physical Information
Listed below is a link for access to the voluntary student insurance for the 2020-2021 school year. Parents are encouraged to purchase this policy to help cover their children as a supplemental insurance. Kanawha County Schools does not cover any practice injuries, or game participation injuries, and deductibles are not paid by Kanawha County Schools. Student athletes are required to provide proof of health insurance before a student is allowed to participate in a sports activity. If students do not have health insurance, parents will need to purchase insurance in order for their child to play. Parents who purchase this insurance will need to print out the page where the policy was paid for as proof that it was purchased for their child.
All student athletes are required to have a physical for each school year to participate in athletics. Physicals completed after May 2020 are good for the entire upcoming school year for all athletics the student athlete may choose to participate in during 2020-2021. The form below is the required form for Kanawha County Schools.
Football 2020
Attention Athletes:
If you are interested in playing football for the 2020 season the first practice will be August 10th. We will not be conducting voluntary practices this June/July. The schedule to the left is the current projected scheduled for Fall 2020.
Coach Halstead
Wrestling Coach Needed
All coaching positions for Fall 2020 have been advertised and filled with the exception of wrestling. Please contact Dr. Donohoe, Principal, at (304) 776-3310, if you have an interest in coaching this middle school sports team. All applicants must have the coaching credentials listed in our school publication for coaching which may be found on this website under the tab "Coaching Interest."
Girls Basketball Flex Days Announced
Flex days for girls basketball will be held on September 25, October 9, and October 23rd from 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM. Girls interested must have a current phsycial form on file with theAthletic Director and a copy of current insurance. For more information see Coach Beakes during lunch.