The Lake Highlands Wildcats wrapped up summer 7-on-7 league play last Thursday night at Plano West High School.

Unfortunately, the 'Cats didn't fair well in their last three games, going 0-3 against Plano West, Plano East and Sachse.

While UIL rules prevents the Wildcat football coaches from participating in coaching during 7-on-7 play, they do pay attention to how the players are developing.

"The format of 7-on-7 play gives the kids a great opportunity to stay in shape and continue their mental development of the game, as well," says Wildcats Head Coach, Scott Smith.

"It's really not about wins and losses. None of these wins or losses mean anything in the fall."

"The biggest fear most of the coaches have regarding 7-on-7 is injury," explains Smith. "This year, we've managed to come out of the 7-on-7 series healthy, and I think the kids got a lot more comfortable with each other."

In the case of the 2010 Wildcat football team, one position that everyone is watching is quarterback.

Senior Brian Dupree and a pair of sophomores – Trent Jones and Michael Ketchmark – will compete for the starting job during August camp.

"Getting all three of our quarterbacks as many reps as possible during 7-on-7 was important," says Smith.

With the graduation of Ricky Zorn, who started at QB for the 'Cats the last two seasons, the starting job is still anyone's to earn.

All three of the candidates bring certain attributes to the table but, as of yet, none have separated themselves as the starter.

Players who stood out during 7-on-7 play included senior defensive back Quitin Rivers, senior running back Desmond Roland, junior Devonte Sunwengham and linebacker Roderick Mackey.

With the summer series now complete, player focus turns to strength and conditioning via the Wildcat Athlete Course (WAC) program.

For the month of June and three weeks in July, all players participating in the WAC go through a regimen of strength and conditioning courses four days a week.

The final week of July and the first week of August provide everyone an opportunity to catch their breath before two-a-days begin on August 9th.

A few dates to keep in mind during the month of August:

Wednesday, August 11th at 7:00 p.m.
Snacks & Facts for all the Wildcat Moms
Football 101 at LHHS

Saturday, August 14th at 12:00 p.m.
Picture Day

Tuesday, August 20th; time TBD
'Cats scrimmage vs. South Garland at the Boneyard

School starts on August 23rd with the 'Cats first game of the season scheduled for Friday, August 27th.

The 'Cats begin their season against Mesquite High School at Hanby Stadium in Mesquite. Kick-off is set for 7:30 p.m.

Be sure to check the Lake Highlands Sports Calendar for all your Wildcat sports schedules!

GO 'CATS!