August start dates approach for Albany football, volleyball practice
Albany Junior/Senior High athletes are heading into the final stretch of their summer conditioning programs, with coaches and players preparing for the start of preseason football and volleyball practices in early August.
Local boys can still work out in conditioning sessions led by coaches at 7:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday through July 17, but can continue to work out on their own after that.
Conditioning sessions for the girls are being held from 8 to 10 a.m. Monday through Thursday until July 17, with a break to follow while coaches attend the Texas High School Coaches Association convention. The girls will resume the conditioning sessions July 28-31, with the final week of the program leading directly into the start of preseason practices.
There are extra sport-specific volleyball sessions on July 14, 29, and 30, including an evening practice July 17.
Volleyball Workouts
Volleyball players will begin official preseason workouts Friday, Aug. 1, a few days ahead of the usual Monday start date, according to head coach M.J. Reneau.
Reneau said many athletes have already been active this summer through league play, which is run independently from the school. Robin Lucas, an Albany graduate and former Lady Lion volleyball player, will lead the varsity at the Jon Smith Tournament on July 18–19.
“I’ve been pleased with how many of them have played this summer,” Reneau said. “But anyone planning to play in the fall needs to make sure their physical is done if they didn’t get one in the spring. We’re sending out the required UIL forms next week so we’ll be ready to go Aug. 1.”
Busy Volleyball
Schedule
The Lady Lions will scrimmage Benjamin and Breckenridge beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 8, followed by matchups with Woodson and Trent on Saturday, Aug. 9.
A dual match against Aspermont and Merkel is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 12. Tournament play begins in Breckenridge on Aug. 15–16.
Football Details
On the boys’ side, strength and conditioning sessions continue Monday through Thursday from 7:00 to 8:00 a.m. through July 17, with steady participation despite the usual drop-off due to vacations following Fandangle season.
Head football coach Denney Faith said equipment will be issued the week of July 28. Seniors and returning lettermen will pick up equipment Monday, followed by juniors on Tuesday, sophomores on Wednesday, and freshmen on Thursday.
Players must bring completed paperwork and a current physical to receive their gear.
“If you didn’t get a physical in the spring, you need to make sure you’ve got that done,” Faith said. “Get the forms signed on both sides, and be ready to turn them in the day you pick up equipment.”
Practice Starts Aug. 4
Football practice begins Monday, Aug. 4, with all high school players expected to be dressed and ready by 8:00 a.m.
“Aug. 4 is go time,” Faith said. “Be ready to work, be ready to compete, and be ready to commit. We are ‘stronger together.’ The potential for this team is as high as any we’ve had – if you’re willing to sacrifice to make it happen.”
The Lions will travel to Coleman for a scrimmage on Aug. 15 and to Early on Aug. 21. Albany opens the regular season at home against Stamford on Friday, Aug. 29.
Gym Notice
Athletic Director Ryder Peacock noted that both AHS gyms will be closed July 15–17 for floor cleaning.
Use of the courts may resume July 18, but students are asked not to enter if signage remains on the doors.
