Crusader Athletics

John Merrill

Athletic Director

Learn About Our New Athletic Director

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, John Merrill has spent a lifetime leading with faith, service, and purpose. Married to Margaret Merrill for over 42 years, together they have raised five beautiful children and are now the proud grandparents of five. Margaret, a former youth minister at St. Mary’s Parish, has shared in his lifelong mission to mentor and serve others. A graduate of the United States Naval Academy, John earned a place in the Naval Academy Hall of Fame for football, later returning to serve as an assistant varsity coach and defensive coordinator for the Sprint football team. His athletic achievements extended to the professional level as an NFL alumnus with the New York Jets. He was the CEO at Southwest Restoration, and brings a distinguished background in tactical service, having worked with multiple law enforcement agencies in Special Operations. As a motivational speaker, he has inspired thousands through powerful messages centered on faith, family, and resilience. Over the past decade, he has led transformative retreats and faith-based programs across the Diocese of Knoxville for high school boys, college students, engaged and married couples. I am grateful to God for sending him our way and know that our students will be greatly enriched by his influence.

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Current Program Options

Fall Sports:

  1. Cross Country (3rd-5th) & (6th-8th) Boys & Girls Divisions.
    • Competes in KYA (Knox Youth Athletics)
    • KYA
      • public & private schools compete.
      • Meets are held all over East TN.
      • The other Catholic Feeder Schools also compete in this program.

* This is a great opportunity for students who compete in other sports to improve their conditioning! 

  1. Volleyball (5th-8th) Girls Only. Competes in KISL (Knoxville Independent School League) and will also play some local public schools.
    • KISL is made of ~20 private schools in the greater Knoxville & Sevierville area. This includes all the other Knoxville Area Catholic Feeder Schools.

Winter Sports:

  1. Basketball (5th-8th) Boys and Girls Teams.
    • Competes in KISL (Knoxville Independent School League) and will also play some local public schools.
    • KISL is made of ~20 private schools in the greater Knoxville & Sevierville area. This includes all the other Knoxville Area Catholic Feeder Schools.

Spring Sports:

  1. Soccer (5th-8th) Boys and Girls Co-Ed Team.
    • Competes in KISL (Knoxville Independent School League) and will also play some local public schools.
    • KISL is made of ~20 private schools in the greater Knoxville & Sevierville area. This includes all the other Knoxville Area Catholic Feeder Schools.
  1. Golf (5th-8th) Boys and Girls Teams.
    • Compete in the East Tennessee Middle School Golf Association