Whether you're a returning athlete or looking to join a team for the first time, explore our sports offerings by season and review eligibility requirements below.
FALL SPORTS
CROSS COUNTRY
FIRST PRACTICE: AUGUST 13TH
Practice will be held from 4:30-6 once school starts. First Official practice will be August 13th. Races are on Saturdays with varying start times. We participate in the Christmas parade, regional competition, state competition, and an open national competition.
FOOTBALL
Our football team represents our school with a strong tradition of grit, community pride, and athletic excellence. Competing in Class 4A District 2, the team builds character and sportsmanship while pushing for victory on the field. Guided by dedicated coaches, the Cardinals combine hard-hitting defense and relentless work ethic to inspire fans every Friday night.
GOLF
PRACTICE: MON, TUES, WED 6PM - 8PM
Golf practice starts right after dead period. Our home course is Bardstown country club. This is also where we practice and have home matches. We play in the 2A state tournament and the Kentucky state tournament in September.
BOYS SOCCER
FIRST PRACTICE: JULY 13TH
The NCHS Boys Soccer team welcomes any player interested in playing soccer whether you have prior experience or not! All that is required to join the team is an updated physical. Pre-season training begins in April and runs until Dead Period at the end of June. Mandatory practices occur in the evenings on Monday-Friday in July followed by the regular season beginning in August and ending in October with roughly 20 games played followed up by our post-season playoffs. For 37 years, this program has been a staple at NCHS commited to the personal development of all student-athletes who join the program creating a strong legacy consisting of multiple district and regional championship teams, as well as, individual players who have earned recognition at the state level and contined their athletic careers to the collegiate level. Contact Coach Stanley at gabe.stanley@nelson.kyschools.us for any questions!
GIRLS SOCCER
The Nelson County High School Lady Cards soccer team contributes to Nelson County with outstanding athleticism, competitive drive, and strong team unity. Competing in the 5th Region, the squad focuses on technical skill, tactical execution, and continuous growth both on and off the pitch. Driven by dedicated coaching and community support, the Lady Cards bring pride, energy, and sportsmanship to every match.
VOLLEYBALL
Open gym workouts run Feb-June Tryouts July 15-17 Season starts after tryouts First game Aug 16
The Nelson County High School Lady Cards volleyball team represents students with high-energy plays, strong teamwork, and relentless determination. Competing in the 5th Region, the squad emphasizes athletic development, strategic execution, and exemplary sportsmanship. Backed by dedicated coaches and a passionate community, the Lady Cards bring competitive fire and pride to every serve, set, and spike.
TRAP SHOOTING
MEETS BEGIN MID-AUGUST
The Trap Shooting team offers student-athletes of all experience levels an exciting opportunity to develop marksmanship, discipline, and mental focus in a supportive environment. Built on a foundation of rigorous firearm safety and responsible handling, the program welcomes both beginners and seasoned shooters to compete individually and as a team. Participants build camaraderie, track their personal growth, and represent our school in the league competitions held throughout the season. No prior shooting experience is required—just a commitment to safety, sportsmanship, and teamwork.
Trap Team meets once a week from 6-8PM at Hahns Trap.
TNHS & NCHS JOINT TEAM
Check out our band website:
https://sites.google.com/nelson.kyschools.us/nelsoncountyband/home?authuser=0
MARCHING BAND / COLOR GUARD
PRACTICE TUES & THURS 3:30PM - 6PM
Marching Band and Color Guard practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30pm - 6pm at the band practice field at NCHS. The marching band program performs at all home football games, the Pride Bowl, and participates in the Bardstown Christmas parade. Marching band concludes when football season is over.
If interested in the NCHS Band program, please contact Mr. Milby at NCHS or email gavin.milby@nelson.kyschools.us. It is highly recommended that students involved in marching band take the in school band course at the middle and high school. Band is open to everyone regardless of the experience level.
CHEERLEADING
PRACTICE: MON & WED 3PM - 5:30PM
Cheer will practice on Monday from 3 to 5:30 in the multipurpose room and Wednesday from 3 to 5:30 also in the multipurpose room. We cheer all home games and away games for football and all basketball men's and women's home games. We are currently putting together the competition team and we will get with Derek Edlin to discuss availability for a place to practice after October when wrestling starts.