By D. Mark Mitchell
Opelika’s football team completes the second week of pre-season practice today (10 days). Coach Blackmon and staff have 95 players on the team.
The Bulldogs have next week to practice on fundamentals and other areas that need improving.The next week, Aug. 18-21, the Dawgs will be preparing to play Carver in the Champions Challenge Aug. 22 in Crampton Bowl. The Champions Challenge is the “official” kickoff for the AHSAA.
The coaches are working to improve the defensive secondary and offensive line. These two areas graduated several starters.
The Opelika v. Carver series has been healthy and close. The two teams could each use the win to jumpstart the season.
The Bulldogs travel to Auburn and Alexander the following weeks. Opelika has an experienced front defensive seven, along with offensive three-year starter center Drew Kyser and Quarterback Mathew Christian to help guide the new players. Special teams will be steady and keep us in games.
SEASON TICKETS
Current season ticket holders can purchase season tickets today from 3:45-6 p.m. at the lobby in the OPAC. If you have season tickets and would like to improve your seats, you can swap Monday from 4-5:30 P.M.. You can buy season tickets for the first time Tuesday from 4-5:30 P.M. at the OPAC lobby.
Single game tickets are $7 each, four homes equals $28 per season book.
ALL-SPORTS BOOSTER CLUB
The Opelika All-Sports Booster club will hold meetings every month called “Bulldog night.”
The first night is Sept. 9 at 6:30 p.m. Volleyball and cheerleading will be the topic of the meeting. Each sport will have a nigh to talk about the teams. The meeting will be every month, rotating at different restaurants. (Western Sizzlin’, Niffers, Irish Bred Pub and Jeffersons). These events will be open for fans and free. Coaches from each sport will be on hand to talk about the teams. No reservation is needed.
KEEK UP WITH OPELIKA DAILY
Opelika fans can keep up with Opelika Athletics Daily by tuning into my morning radio show “On the Mark” on WTLM 1520 am or online at kickerfm.com/sports then click “listen live.”
Jeff Sasser and I will keep you posted on breaking news and Info.
You can also go to www.thedawgnetwork.com. This is the official site of Opelika Athletics. You can find schedules, video clips, and hand highlights.
D.Mark Mitchell is sports director for Qantum Radio, Alabama Dixie Boys State director and vice president of the A-O Sports Council.