They’ve lifted tires, weights, and even sandbags; ran laps, sprints and plays. They’ve spent summer days competing and sweating under the heat of the sun. Coaches have yelled, offered reassurance, and even a congratulatory nod, all in the vein of motivation and preparation.
They have worked hard, but that work has really only begun. They are young men with a passion for football. They are Bulldogs, Pride, Eagles, Yellowjackets, Hawks, and Coyotes and they are almost ready for the 2012-13 season.
From early morning conditioning sessions to passing camps in the evening, soon-to-be football players are putting in the time needed to succeed on the gridiron. Some are first time players while others have played practically their entire lives. Some have collegiate aspirations and others just love to play the game.
This week marked the beginning of two-a-days as well as the introduction of helmets and pads for some teams. With less than a month left before the beginning of the season coaches and players alike are growing eager with anticipation, waiting for the chance to hit an opponent and shine under the Friday night lights.
For the players of Turlock, Pitman, Turlock Christian, Hilmar, Delhi, and Denair High the upcoming season will be a culmination of hours which have turned into days, weeks and months. Blood and tears may have been shed but it’s part of the summertime sacrifice that has come to be expected from football players. Every player hopes their sacrifices will pay off, that the pain and discomfort of conditioning and practice will give way to the fun and glory of victory.
They, like us, will soon find out. That’s right; it’s almost football time in the Valley.