American College Higher Secondary School

American College Higher Secondary School, commonly known as AC School, is one of India's oldest schools. It was established during British colonial times in the southern Indian city of Madurai.

History
In 1967, under the leadership of Dr. Thangaraj, the college started a self-assessment to develop a plan for the future. In 1973, it submitted an application to Madurai Kamaraj University, which in turn sent a recommendation to the University Grants Commission that autonomous status be conferred on the school, which was accepted. The Tamil Nadu Legislature passed a bill recognising autonomous colleges in 1977, making American College, in affiliation with Madurai University, a pioneer in this category.

Sports
For many years, AC School has been noted for its sporting talents. Students from the Sports Hostel, run by the Sports Authority of Tamil Nadu on the premises of Race Course Stadium in Madurai, undergo their education at AC School. The sports hostel houses young talents in athletics, basketball, and football. Additionally, AC School is one of the most prominent cricket-playing schools in this part of Tamil Nadu.

Powered by the coaching from the Sports Hostel, the football team has achieved many milestones in the state. In 1992, the AC School team defeated the YMCA Club of Chennai in a thrilling final at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Tiruchirapalli. At that time, YMCA was represented by professional footballers from all parts of the country. To celebrate this victory, the then Headmaster of AC School, Mr. Appa Samy, announced a holiday.

For more than 15 years, AC School dominated the Madurai Educational District cricket tournament, winning the championship title continuously for 14 years. Many AC School alumni play in the A and B divisions of the Madurai District Cricket Association league.

Though it does not have a strong hockey team, the school has produced notable talents in the sport. Illango, an AC School alumnus, has represented India's under-19 hockey team.

Similarly, the school has many talented teachers who know how to help students focus on both studies and sports. The physical education instructors play a significant role in elevating the school's presence in the sports arena.