Although the rainy mid-August weather was less than accommodating, the five county high school varsity football squads commenced official summer workouts last week.

Each school ran through state-mandated non-contact drills for the first three days, with the players then donning helmets and pads to hit the blocking sleds and one another.

Following a few days of stretching and sweating, coaches and their respective gridders took time out for their annual Picture Day.

“I really like how this group looks so far,” said Sand Rock head coach Russell Jacoway. “They’re a bunch of hard workers, which will pay off late in the season.”

Gaylesville’s head coach was similarly pleased with his team’s efforts through the first few days of practice.

“We have over 30 kids participating in the workouts, and we hope to add several more in the near future,” noted Brian Clowdis.

Although bad weather forced Cedar Bluff’s Picture Day indoors, Steve Smith’s outlook was nothing if not sunny.

“The kids are focused on getting ready for the season,” said the Tiger head coach, “and we have a few transfer students that we expect will contribute.”

CCHS head coach Tom Curry deemed his first week of Camp Warrior a success.

“The 36 kids that we have worked very hard, and I think that we’ll improve as the workouts progress.”

Sand Rock visits Cedar Bluff on Aug. 31, while CCHS hosts Piedmont. Gaylesville hosts Ragland on the above date, while Spring Garden travels to White Plains