Anniston High School students, faculty and staff will have Friday, December 5, off as the Bulldogs prepare to compete in the 4A AHSAA Super 7 Championship — and the entire City of Anniston is rallying behind the team with a full week of celebrations.
Anniston City Schools announced Monday that classes will be canceled, so students, employees and community members involved in the game can attend the 11 a.m. kickoff at Protective Stadium in Birmingham. Officials said the schedule change ensures everyone can travel safely and support the Bulldogs during their first state title appearance since 1994.
Superintendent Dr. D. Ray Hill also shared a special announcement on social media, addressing families at Cobb Preparatory Academy, Randolph Park Elementary, Golden Springs Elementary School, Anniston Middle School and Anniston High School as excitement builds across the district.
The City of Anniston released its own championship-week schedule, encouraging residents and businesses to show their support throughout the week:
- Monday — Home Town Pride Day: Families are encouraged to decorate porches, doors, yards, windows and storefronts in red and black and share photos using #BulldogsBelieve or text submissions to the city. A community montage will be released Monday evening.
- Tuesday — Throwback Tuesday: The city is spotlighting memories, photos and players from the 1989 and 1994 championship teams, inviting residents and former athletes to share their stories.
- Wednesday — Bulldog Business Pride: Local businesses are decorating storefronts in team colors or displaying “Go Bulldogs!” signage, with the city showcasing the best photos online.
- Thursday — Team Send-Off: The community is invited to join the official send-off at Anniston High School at 10 a.m.
- Friday — Championship Gameday: Residents are asked to wear Anniston colors citywide before traveling to Birmingham to PACK Protective Stadium for the 11 a.m. kickoff.
City officials said the weeklong festivities are designed to “lift our boys up and show Alabama exactly what Anniston pride looks like” as the Bulldogs fight for a championship title.
The makeup day for the school closure is set for February 16, 2026.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
