KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Fans gathered in the stands for a rivalry game between Maryville and Alcoa Friday while another group stayed outside, asking for the Maryville "Rebels" to change their name.
They held signs across the street from the game asking for officials to reconsider the name. A petition started in June said that the Rebel mascot stems from a history of slavery and from the Civil War. The petition also said that the mascot does reflect Maryville's values and should be changed.
"I would like there to be a discussion about, 'how can we make this a more inclusive environment that really builds up everyone and encourages everyone to succeed?'" said Savita Chapman, an organizer of the event.
In July, school officials announced that it would create a task force to review the use of the nickname.