In a little over two months, the Lake Highlands Wildcats football team will strap on the pads and line-up against Mesquite for their first game of the 2010 football season

In the meantime, the ‘Cats 7-on-7 squad took to the field this past weekend in their first of four scheduled events this summer.

On Saturday, the Wildcats played in the state qualifying tournament hosted by Plano West High School. The tournament was made up of four pools with a total of 16 teams from all over the metroplex.

The ‘Cats competed in Pool C with Lewisville, Plano East and Sherman.

Led by senior quarterback, Brian Dupree, the ‘Cats picked up a win over Lewisville (32-20) in their first game of the tournament.

In their second game, the Wildcats jumped out to an early two-score lead against Plano East, but ended up dropping the high scoring game, 44-35.

The tournament came to an end for the ‘Cats after the final game against Sherman, who would go on to win Pool C by defeating the ‘Cats 31-24.

"This really isn’t about the wins and losses," said Wildcat Head Coach Scott Smith of the competition.

"As always, 7-on-7 provides a great opportunity for our skill players to work on different route combos against the various defensive looks."

"On offense, I thought Dupree managed the games well from the quarterback position, and I’m proud the way he came out here and ran the offense," said Smith.

"A lot of what goes on out here isn’t what he's necessarily comfortable with, but he's doing a great job with it all."

A couple of other Wildcat players stood out during the three games. Junior tight end Randall Howard showed why the 'Cats offense will be slightly modified, in an effort to accommodate his athleticism.

"We've always had designed plays to include tight ends, but Howard gives us some more opportunities to use those plays this year," explained Coach Smith.

On the defensive side, Smith was pleased with what he saw out of senior defensive back, Quintin Rivers. "He had some great pass break-ups and closed on the ball well."

The ‘Cats will compete in 7-on-7 action three more times this summer at Plano West High School. League play will be against Plano West, Plano East and Sachse.

Games are scheduled for Thursday nights including June 17th, June 24th and July 1st. Play begins at 7:00 p.m.

GO ‘CATS!