The high school football season in North Dakota is set to begin, with the Grand Forks Red River and Grand Forks Central teams holding their first full preseason practices. The Knights and Roughriders are preparing for their upcoming season, with each team looking to fill key positions after losing several standout players to graduation. Red River will rely on senior quarterback Reese Walters and a number of returning skill position players, while Central has veteran quarterback Brody Leddige leading the team, supported by competition from other promising players. Both teams aim to improve upon their performance in the previous season, where they reached the North Dakota Division AA playoffs but were eliminated in the quarterfinals. The Knights start their season against Bismarck St. Mary’s on August 28, and Red River will face West Fargo Horace the same day.
Why It Matters
The preparation for the high school football season is crucial for both Grand Forks teams as they aim to build on their playoff experiences from the previous year. In 2025, both teams reached the North Dakota Division AA playoffs, with Red River finishing with a 4-6 record and Central at 7-3. The transition of key players and the ability to develop new talent will impact their competitiveness in the upcoming season. High school football is an important community event in North Dakota, fostering local pride and providing student-athletes with opportunities for development and potential scholarships.
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