By By Chandler Myers
Football fans do not have to wait any longer as the official kickoff to the football season as the Escambia Academy Cougars travel to Evergreen to take on the Sparta Academy Warriors in a rivalry game.
The Cougars look to take the field and redeem themselves after finishing 0-11 during the 2008 season with a depleted roster.
The 2009 Cougars squad is much deeper this year with nearly double the amount of players, but still takes on the toughest schedule in AISA beginning with this week’s game.
Cougars head coach Heath Gibson said the Cougars are excited about starting the season especially with a rival.
The Cougars will come out in their Wing-T formation and attempt to control the field throughout the game.
Gibson said his squad has looked strong in the formation especially in recent practices.
Defensively, the Cougars will set up in multiple formations, and will focus on their intensity level to control the game.
Gibson said he wants the defense to stay focused and play hard to keep the Warriors’ offense under control.
With the first game being a rivalry game, a win or loss could shape the season for the Cougars.
Gibson said if the Cougars compete in the game then it could help spell success for the rest of the year.
The Cougars take on the Warriors Friday night in Evergreen with kickoff at 7 p.m.