The sun has set on preseason practices as the football team prepares for its 2018 debut under the Friday night lights as the Redhawks take on North Garland at 7 p.m. at Williams Stadium.

“North Garland is a very athletic team that is well coached,” head football coach Chris Burtch said via email. “We prepared for them as you do versus all opponents; defend what they do well, [which is] run the ball, and attack where there may be a weakness, [such as] multiple adjustments for their defense.”

Having prepared through preseason practices in the summer and a scrimmage against Royse City last week, sophomore linebacker Will Glatch and his teammates seem to be ready for play.

“In the off-season we, as a team, have gotten stronger, faster and mentally tougher for the football season,” Glatch said. “I believe that we will play very well together as a team with a lot of effort and passion.”

From spring ball to the start of fall practice, Burtch believes the team is ready for its 2018 debut.

“Our team has prepared physically for most of the summer and the mental preparation has gone well,” Burtch said via email. “Regardless of physical and mental preparation, great effort overcomes small mistakes.”