Sweating in July to make a run in October, the DeKalb County Tigers are in full preparation mode for the 2018 season, their first step coming with a scrimmage in Gordonsville Friday night.

The Tigers kickoff the scrimmage at 6 p.m., the first of two tune-ups for the regular session. The second will come against Friendship Christian on Aug. 3 on what Coach Steve Trapp has declared Community Day where fans will be honored for their continued support of the program.

Friday’s scrimmage comes after the Tigers practiced in full gear this past week, honing their skills in the late afternoon heat while much of the rest of DeKalb County enjoyed cotton candy at the county fair. The team was treated to a meal Friday evening during an overnighter at the stadium, a reward for their hard work during the offseason.

The Tigers begin their 2108 campaign when they host the Warren County Pioneers in their annual border battle Aug. 17. They are hoping to avenge last year’s 26-10 loss to their arch rivals. The Smithville Review will sponsor a pep rally for the team Aug. 16 at the stadium on the eve of the kickoff.