High school football is getting closer and closer as teams will begin fall practice next week.

The Alabama High School Athletic Association’s start of fall practice is Tues., Aug. 2.

Escambia County head football coach Royce Young said the first two days, the players will practice with helmets. Days three and four will be with helmets and shoulder pads, he said.

Two-a-days can’t be held one day after another, Young said.

The ECHS coach said he’s going to try and get the boys out during the coolest part of the day — the early morning and evening hours.

Since Escambia Academy is playing in the SECIS Kickoff Classic at Montgomery’s Cramton Bowl, the Cougars have already begun practicing for the season.

According to the Alabama Independent Association’s Athletic Handbook, the official start of fall practice is Aug. 3.

For Northview High School, the Chiefs begin practice on Mon., Aug. 1. First date with contest is Aug. 6, according to the Florida High School Athletic Association’s website.

-Andrew Garner