High school football in New York State is returning to a three-week training camp, with an earlier start date approved to allow teams more preparation time for the upcoming season.

By the Numbers
  • Start date moved to Aug. 19, providing teams up to 18 or 19 days before opening kickoff.
  • Teams previously had only 12 to 14 days to prepare in recent years.
Yes, But

The extended training camp could potentially lead to player burnout or overtraining if not managed effectively.

State of Play
  • Start date moved back to allow more time for preparation and team bonding.
  • Teams now have the opportunity for a controlled contact scrimmage before official games commence.
  • The extended practice time aims to keep players safe and limit the impact of injuries on team preparation.
Bottom Line

The return to a three-week training camp provides high school football teams in New York with crucial additional time for preparation, team bonding, and injury prevention, ultimately enhancing player readiness and safety for the upcoming season.