Shelby Academy needed to raise money in hopes of reopening next August.

Evangel Christian School wanted to play its athletic contests at a central location closer to its Alabaster home.

The recent agreement between the two schools to allow Evangel Christian to rent the Shelby Academy athletic facilities was a natural fit, both parties said.

“We had a meeting last week,” said Gloria Haygood, Shelby Academy’s board of trustees president. “We’ve got a good relationship with them.”

Wayne Price, head coach of the Evangel football team, also said the move is in the best interest of both schools.

“As (Shelby Academy) closed, it became a win-win situation for us,” Price said. “It was very positive for both Shelby Academy and for us.”

Haygood said a contract hasn’t been signed yet. The tentative agreement allows for Evangel Christian to host all of its home athletic events at Shelby Academy and also utilize the facilities for team practice during the 2009-2010 school year.

Shelby Academy retains the right to use the athletic facilities if they aren’t being used by Evangel Christian, Haygood said.

Evangel Christian agreed to pay a rental fee and utility bills and keep the playing fields in good condition during the school year.

Price said Evangel Christian coaches are spending a lot of time to get the football field ready for the season this week.

“We cut the grass for nine hours (Thursday),” Price said. “We’re having a work day Saturday.”

Price said Evangel Christian School is thrilled to have a new home for its football, volleyball and boys and girls basketball teams. The Evangel football team played its home games at multiple sites in Shelby County in 2008.

“Unity at a common location is very exciting,” Price said. “It’s huge having a full-size field for football.”