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The switch has been made.

The transition from thinking about the offseason to football season has been made in this editor’s brain.

Every year, I always get excited as July 1 nears.

For me, football season begins on this date because that means my preparation for our annual “The Zone” magazine has begun.

Lining up interviews and noting when picture days are held are all a part of the fun, and albeit grind of it all.

Yes, sometimes the pressure of trying to get the edition out prior to when football season begins gets to me, but it’s worth it.

Why is it worth it?

Because, as Brewton Standard Editor Lisa Tindell said recently on a conference call, “this is Andrew’s baby.”

And it is.

I enjoy learning about what each of Escambia County’s teams will be putting on the gridiron each season. That helps me get a good idea of what the team looks like heading into the new campaign.

One of the bright spots that we feature in every edition is a feature from each team. Normally, I ask for a player feature, but this year I am doing things a little different.

This year, I’m asking for team traditions.

I’ve already gotten a few ready to be written, and I am looking forward to learning of the other teams’ traditions.

Pretty soon, the kick off for the 2022 football season will be upon us.

And I’ll be happy because the glossy-covered magazine will be in my hands.