By Erick Nunez

Dirty cleats rip the rubber turf and the sound of a whistle blows as the start of the football season emerges. Players are excited and thrilled to defend their title as district champions in the sport that the Aztec Empire strives to be the best in every year.

“We have a lot of players coming back and were going to do great things this year,” said senior Joshua Rey. “We have a new coach coming in. He set our mindset right.”

Just like the players, the coaches are excited but are anxious to perform well this football season.

“Our expectations for this year are higher, so we expect to be at the top with a great run in the playoffs,” said assistant varsity coach Phil Barrios.

Not only are the coaches and players excited for what’s to come, but so are the fans. Students have come together to organize a tailgate for everyone before the game to promote school spirit and get everyone excited for the upcoming season.

The football season starts today August 26 at the SAC. The Aztecs will be taking on the Eastlake Falcons in the season opener.