Cougars Begin Preseason Football Practice

Will Johnson said Monday’s first official preseason practice was a “good one” as the Piedmont Academy football team eyes the upcoming season.

Players worked in shorts and helmets Monday and Tuesday of this week before adding shoulder pads Wednesday. Full contact work for the Cougars begins today.

During the next two weeks players will practice from 9-11 a.m. before taking part in weight training from noon until 1 p.m. Team meetings will then be from 1-2:30 p.m.

“I told the players we are going to have some long days but we have to grind it out,” Johnson said.

The new head coach said the summer conditioning has already paid dividends as players reported to their first practice sessions in shape.

“We are constantly moving at practice,” Johnson said. “The players are already doing a lot of good things.”

Piedmont will face Fullington Academy as part of the John Hancock Academy Classic on Aug. 16. Piedmont then opens the 2019 regular season the following week against John Hancock on the road also in Sparta.

The Cougars remain on the road in the second week of the regular season against Monsignor Donovan in Athens. Piedmont will play its first home contest of the 2019 season September 6 against Thomas Jefferson.

Since his promotion to head coach Johnson has stressed the importance of hard work and enthusiasm from his players.

“It’s a tough sport and one that demands a lot,” the coach said. “Our players have shown they are willing to work and put in the necessary time to be successful. Piedmont has a storied football tradition. We are looking to return to the winning ways the program has enjoyed throughout its history.”