The Dexter Bearcats open their season on Friday, August 25th at home hosting the Scott City Rams.  On Friday, August 18th they host a Football Jamboree featuring the Bearcats, the Poplar Bluff Mules, the Fredericktown Blackcats and the Caruthersville Tigers.  It all starts at 6:00 p.m. at Charles Bland Stadium!

"I am excited to see how our kids respond to competition," commented head football coach Chad Jamerson.  "They have worked really hard the past 8 - 9 months, whether in the weight room or practice field, to prepare themselves for the rigors of football season."

Last season the Bearcats fields a very young squad that was heavy on sophomore and only had six seniors.  This year there are 10 seniors on the roster and there are at least 14 athletes who have moved into their junior season.

There is a lot more leadership on the field this year and that should be a great asset for the Bearcats.

Each of the visiting teams present their own unique challenges for the Dexter Bearcats.

"We will be tested this Friday night by the size of Fredericktown, the speed of Caruthersville, and combination of both from Poplar Bluff," continued Jamerson.

It may only be a scrimmage and the results don't matter on the scoreboard, there is a certain amount of pride the Bearcats take in their craft, pride in their hard work on and off the filed and how they view future competition.  It does matter to everyone involved including coaches and fans.  They have put in the effort and hopefully will see many rewards on the field under the Friday night lights.

What advice did Jamerson offer the athletes, "Above all else, be a team and have fun!  You only get so many opportunities to play this game and I hope they enjoy it while they can."

The ShowMe Times will be on hand to take photos of all four teams on Friday evening.  Good luck Bearcats!

Pictured is Jett Grams running the ball during the Bearcat Midnight Madness last Friday night.