Football practice has just started at Richmond Hill High School. Coach Brian Brocato said the coaches and players are optimistic about this coming season.

The team wrapped up camp Friday. In accordance with a state ruling, no pads were used. So, in shorts and T-shirts, the team spent some time practicing skills this past week.

"We’re looking forward to putting on the pads next week," Brocato said.

The first scrimmage is slated for Aug. 15 versus Groves, which will be broadcast on 104.7 The Hawk to kick-off this year’s Wildcat Radio Show. Like last year, each game will be broadcast live.

"I want to encourage everyone to come out to the Groves game," Brocato said. "The team is looking good and we could use the support."

The team recently lost their offensive coordinator, Wade Wright. Zach Grage has stepped into that role. Rounding out the coaching staff is Rick Bond, Tony Dragon, Chris Scholar, Robby Flanders and Sgt. Major Charles Bradley.

"In terms of putting offense and defense in and teamwork, we’re ahead of last year at this same time," Brocato said. "We’re still young, but we lost a lot of seniors this year, but we’ve got a better senior class this year since I’ve been here, in terms of leadership."

Brocato bragged on the offensive efforts of players such as Tyler Mitchell, Matt Williams, Eli Thompson, Jalen Reyes, Aaron Sauls, Matt Wyatt, Josh Davis and Zach Young. He said defense is also looking strong with players like Zach Denney and Shaquille Walker.

"The offensive line is pretty much the same as last year, which is good," Brocato said. "Coach Dragon is doing a great job with our defense. They are bigger and a step or two faster than last year."

For the first time, RHHS will have a freshman team this year in addition to varsity and JV. All freshman games will be played on Mondays.

Breakfast was supplied by Sunrise Café and lunch and dinner was supplied by Hunter Army Airfield.