The Bow Valley Bobcats football team returned to their field last week to prepare for the season ahead.

On Thursday, Aug. 30, they'll get their first chance to put that training into action during a controlled game against the St. Albert Skyhawks. Game time is 6 p.m.

The Bobcats have 33 on their roster, less than originally anticipated after five players found a way to transfer to Cochrane High.

Bobcats alumni Scott Haigh has returned to help coach the team after stints with both the Dinos and Calgary Colts.

Still, that hasn't got the team down and the players are fired up and ready to go.

"We have a great energy," says co-Head Coach Cam Cote. "There's been such a positive buzz on the practice field. It's a great place to be."

Brody Sidebottom is the starting quarterback for Thursday's game and they are starting the season with a few injured players on the sideline.

The Bobcats kick off their 2018 Rocky View Sports season against the George McDougall Mustangs in a Sept. 7 home game. The regular season continues until Oct. 13.

The reigning tier 3 provincial champion Cochrane Cobras are hosting an exhibition game against Paul Kane High Blues, also from St. Albert on Sept. 1.

Both games are being held at the SLS Legacy Sports Field on the grounds of the Bow Valley High School.