Veteran Shelby Valley head football coach Anthony Hampton said his team has been working to improve on speed and agility during the off season.
The Wildcats, who finished 10-2 one year ago, falling to Lexington Christian in the opening round of the Class 2A playoffs.
Hampton must replace all-purpose running back Seth Johnson, who rushed for 2,212 yards and 25 touchdowns. Returning is senior Dalton Meade, who will move from running back under center when Valley opens its season at home against Letcher Central on Aug. 23.
Meade rushed for 812 yards and 13 touchdowns while hauling in 11 passes for 239 yards and four scores.
Offensive lineman and defensive tackle Peyton Blackburn returns. He is one of the top recruited linemen in the Commonwealth.
In addition to hosting LCC, the Wildcats will host Phelps (Sept. 20), Prestonsburg (Oct. 4), East Ridge (Oct. 18) and Bath County (Oct. 25).
Valley will play at Pikeville against Pike Central in the 35th annual Pike County Bowl on Aug. 31. Other road games include Ridgeview, Va. (Sept. 6), Knott Central (Sept. 13), West Carter (Sept. 27) and Martin County (Oct. 11).
Date Opponent Site
Aug. 23 Letcher Central Home
Aug. 31 Pike Central Pike County Bowl
Sept. 6 Ridgeview, Va. Away
Sept. 13 Knott Central Away
Sept. 20 Phelps Home
Sept. 27 West Carter Away
Oct. 4 Prestonsburg Home
Oct. 11 Martin County Away
Oct. 18 East Ridge Home
Oct. 25 Bath County Home