Its time to lace up your cleats and get out your pads and helmet, football season returns once again to Pincher Creek.

The Mustangs senior football team had their first practice on Aug. 16 and their first game on Aug. 26 an away match against Drumheller. Head coach Wayne Alexander is confident about the teams chances heading into the 2017 season.

Im excited about the upcoming season, Alexander said. This year I think we are definitely going to win more games and were going to be an exciting team.

Last years season saw many rough and hard-luck losses for the Mustangs. Over the course of their regular games, the Mustangs went 1-6.

Last year, on paper and skill wise, we had a great team, Alexander said. It just didnt transfer to wins on the field. It was a disappointing season.

Despite hard luck and a disappointing conclusion to their season, the Mustangs played their hearts out every single game. In over half of their games, the Mustangs had more offensive yards and they outran five out of seven teams. Even in their last playoff game in Claresholm, the Mustangs had more yards and more first downs.

Many of the players who played last year have graduated, but Alexander said the boys coming up from bantam to the senior level of play are great additions to the roster.

Its a big jump from bantam to senior, but Im excited for many of them. Ive watched them play for a number of years, Alexander said. I know what their capabilities are and I know their mental attitude.

Last years bantam team improved greatly across their season, as their smaller roster forced the boys to play iron man football: participating in almost every position and pushing each player to their absolute limit.

Bantam coach Travis Liscombe did a nice job with those boys and we saw a lot of improvement, Alexander said. Were getting some of those players and theres no doubt in my mind they will be playing like iron men.

The team will also see some returning athletes playing in their final year. Quarterback Beau Walter played the position last year, but Alexander said this year will definitely be his time to shine.

He was strong last year, but this year hes going to be great, he said. Hes got a strong arm.

Despite practices and the first game coming up fast for the Mustangs, Alexander said they are always looking for more players to come out and join the team.

The first home game will be against the Bow Valley Wolverines at 1 p.m. on Sept. 9, so be sure to come on out and cheer for the Mustangs.

amccutcheon@postmedia.com

@echo_agmc

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