The Italy Gladiators will conclude their two week long 2-a-day workout schedule on Friday under the guidance of head coach Craig Bales. With weather hot enough to roast an eagle before it touches the ground, the Gladiators have remained positive and relentless during their training. “This is the best feeling I’ve had about a football workout since I’ve been here,” bellowed defensive coordinator, Jeff Richters, upon the conclusion of last week’s practices on Friday.

Speaking of eagles, the Gladiators will have their first scrimmage against the visiting Valley Mills Eagles this Saturday, August 13, with the JV squad starting at 10:00 a.m. at Willis Field. It will be a great opportunity for Italy to see how far they have already climbed since last season and a chance for Gladiator fans to get their first look at this year’s cast of armour clad warriors.

The offensive line, coached by Randy Parks and assisted by Larry Mayberry, Sr., has received high marks from Coach Bales which bodes well for senior quarterback Jase Holden, who will be the arm of the Gladiators’ armoured attack. Between the effort being displayed on the seven-man sled and the board battles that are turning men to mean, fans can expect the Italy’s line to deliver a powerful punch on Friday nights. Defensively, who knew Coach Richters had such a pleasant smile. He has been absolutely ecstatic with the practice performances displayed by his talented cast of defenders.

Well, I prefer to keep further details classified, however, my camera lens cap off to head coach Craig Bales and his staff on executing a successful 2-a-day workout program. The players have responded to any challenges thrown at them and confidence is high.

Go Gladiators!