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The Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) applied for affiliate membership with the National Federation of High School State Associations (NFHS) on Jan. 8. 

Morgan Academy and Meadowview Christian School are members of the AISA.

The AISA’s goal is to improve collaboration and standardization among its member schools and their athletic programs through membership with the NFHS, advancing high school sports and activities.

“After so many years of restricting competitive choice in Alabama, we are hopeful that the AHSAA Board of Control will support our application for NFHS affiliate membership and support competitive choice by allowing their members to compete against our members if they choose to do so,” AISA Executive Director Michael McLendon said in a statement.

“In addition to providing more local opponents for middle and high school students to compete against, which will work toward improving travel expenses, the competitive choice will lift community spirit and create local interest in the respective schools and programs.”

The application is now contingent upon the approval of the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s (AHSAA) Central Board of Control. If approved, the application will then go before the National Council of the NFHS, which makes the final decision regarding the AISA’s application.

Morgan Academy football coach and Athletic Director Danny Raines supports the move.

“There are some positives to doing it,” Raines said. “The ability to play schools in closer proximity will help with travel.”

The AHSAA, the primary governing body for high school sports in Alabama, is scheduled to meet Wednesday to deliberate on AISA’s request.