By By Adam Prestridge
Youth could be an advantage for the Escambia County High School football team when they step on the gridiron this August to open the 2009 campaign.
Suiting up young players has been the standard for head coach Kyle Davis and this season he believes experienced youth could be the key to the Blue Devils’ success.
Friday night, Blue Devil faithful will have the opportunity to get a sneak peek at next season’s team as ECHS hosts a spring jamboree at Herbert Barnes Stadium.
Although Friday’s contest will be a refresher for his players, Davis said he would use the jamboree to gauge the level of skill and intensity his returning and new players possess.
The Blue Devils have been hard at work since May 4 going through spring training. Davis said he is optimistic about the upcoming season after witnessing his team’s play during practices.
With the hard work put forth by his team in the weight room and in spring practices, Davis is confident the Blue Devils will be more competitive during their second year in Class 5A.
The jamboree will begin at 5 p.m. with a middle school contest featuring Escambia County Middle School and Central Baldwin Middle School. ECHS will follow ECMS at 6:30 p.m. with a two-quarter battle against Class 6A Robertsdale. Davis said the first quarter against Robertsdale would feature JV players and the second varsity players.
Following that match-up, Robertsdale will play Clarke County High School for a half and ECHS will close the night with two varsity quarters against Clarke County.
Admission will be $5 and full concessions will be available.
The Blue Devils will begin summer workouts on May 25. Players will report to the weight room daily from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. for workouts.
Summer practices are scheduled to begin Aug. 3, Davis said.