The Program

Preparing for the Next Level

Success in high school football takes more than just showing up — it takes commitment, consistency, and preparation.

Players who may be less aggressive will need to lean on their speed, size, or technical skill. Likewise, those with less natural talent can still excel with effort, athleticism, and a relentless work ethic. The truth is: players who aren't developing at least two of these areas—size, speed, or skill—will find it tough to earn playing time at the high school level.

That’s why we strongly encourage all future MRHS football players to train outside of team practices, with a focus on their position and individual goals.

Speed, agility, and mobility training is essential for every player, regardless of age or position.
Bodyweight strength training is ideal for players under 13.
Structured weight training should begin around age 13 and up.
Quarterbacks and receivers are encouraged to work with private trainers for position-specific development.

Need help getting started or finding a local trainer? We’re here to help—just reach out!

Our youth football program functions under Trailhead Youth Foundation which is a 501(C)(3) organization allowing your sponsorship or donations to be tax deductible. (EID# 84-3609893)

If your future MRHS child is planning on playing tackle football at MRHS, it is expected that they play for the Ridge Jr Mountain Lions at least one season (preferably more than one season) before they enter their freshman year at MRHS. We coach the MRHS offensive and defensive formations and concepts, so the freshman players hit the ground running at the beginning of freshman summer camp. It is imperative that the players come together, learn how to trust and encourage each other, hold their teammates accountable, and to work together as a team prior to their freshman year. Statistically, teams that play multiple seasons together are more successful in the long run than teams that are playing together for the first time. Beginning their freshman season with a season or two of already playing together will give them a big advantage. Every player is expected to be on time and at every practice. If players have other activities that will conflict with practices or games, the coaches need to be notified in advance. Every player is expected to come to practices prepared, with all of the equipment required to participate. Players with bumps and bruises are expected to continue to attend and participate in every practice. Players with injuries are still expected to attend every practice and listen and watch what is being coached. Coaches do not win games. The number of wins we get depends on the effort given by every single player at each and every practice and in each and every game.

This program thrives only because the parents step up to play a part in making these experiences on the football field rewarding and memorable. We all have a voice in making this season the best it can be, as long as it is done with care and respect. We have a 24-hour cooling down period rule, and sensitive conversations should be done in person, rather than through text or e-mail. If a parent wishes to speak with a coaches, they must first speak with the team’s Head Coach. Our practices are semi-closed. This means that parents are welcome to watch from the edge of the practice area but are not allowed to enter the practice area. Players must not leave the practice area at any time during practice unless to use the restroom or receive medical attention.

Practice time is guaranteed. Playing time is earned at each and every practice. Playing time is based on the sum of the

following things:

• Size contributes up to 30%

• Speed contributes up to 30%

• Aggressiveness contributes up to 30%

• Talent contributes up to only 10%

Players that get the most playing time have a sum greater than 60%.

This means that smaller players need to make up for it with speed, aggressiveness, and talent.

This means that slower players need to make up for it with size, aggressiveness, and talent.