Marlboro County High School Football Coach Quin McCollum kicked off the first practice for his team on July 29.
At the time of the interview, the team had its first two days of practice completed with helmets.
McCollum said wearing the helmets has made a difference.
“It helps them with their ability to start getting acclimated to the weather, being able to run and see, and being able to just function in it,” he said. After two days of helmets, the team was able to start wearing shoulder pads.
Practice is from 6-8:30 p.m. with each session having a theme.
Monday is defensive day while Tuesdays is an offensive emphasis day. Wednesday is a combination of both days.
McCollum is looking for football players.
Students, who are in ninth-12th grades and interested in playing are asked to report to practice. Please wear a plain white t-shirt, black pants, and black socks.
The first two climate control units for the uniforms and equipment were delivered last week.
The professionally cleaned jerseys were delivered on Wednesday. McCollum said the new industrial hygienist was supposed to come out before the end of the week to finish up the initial assessment for the fieldhouse so they could write the protocol for it. A four-way scrimmage will be held at McAlpine Stadium on Monday, August 8 at 6 p.m. It will feature the Bulldogs, Lee Central High of Bishopville, Burke High School of Charleston and Hemingway High of Hemingway. “It’s going to be a good test for everybody,” McCollum said.
The annual Dennis Miller Jamboree will be held on Aug. 12. Kickoff is at 6 p.m. The cost is $7 at the gate.
There will be four games.
The first game will be Chesterfield High School versus Lumberton High School. The second game is Cheraw High School versus Scotland High School. The third game will have Dillon High School facing off against Richmond High School.
Marlboro County High School will play Anson High School.
The Bulldogs will open their season at home on Aug. 26 against Cheraw High School.