On the bright and humid morning of August 17, dozens of hopeful football players trooped onto the field at Dartmouth High School for the first day of practice.

Despite the heat, the players were enthusiastic and worked hard to prove they belonged on the junior varsity or varsity teams.

“That’s what these three days are about,” Head Coach Rick White said. “Getting in shape, and seeing who’s ready to play this year.”

Some of last year’s starting players have returned, including Owen Guilbeault, Eric Vieira, Nolan Ellis, Max Fera, Nate Oliver, Dustin Couto, Taenlen Tavares, and Jason Shea, but the team had over 20 seniors graduate.

Asked about the team’s prospects this season, Coach White said “It’s just day one, so we’ll see.” He did note that a number of the returning players are very strong.

The JV and varsity hopefuls started the day by warming up and doing agility drills, before moving on to practice skills like blocking, passing, catching, and maintaining a good grip on the ball.

The varsity team’s first game will be on Friday, September 7 at 7 p.m. against Central Catholic at the Lawrence Veterans Memorial Stadium.