While most students spend their summer sleeping in, relaxing, and enjoying their time off school, the Fluvanna football team is gearing up for next season. Under the leadership of Head Coach Mitchell Pace and Assistant Coach Brandon Townes, the football team is working hard to make Districts next year.

“Fluvanna Football has changed the way we do things. I challenged our young men to step up and work harder than they had before, and the payoff is beginning to take shape,” said Pace.

The Flucos’ offseason training started after Thanksgiving break. Currently, they practice on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. They have two days in the weight room and one day on the field.

“Normally, we dedicate one day a week for on-field training, but this year we might incorporate more 7v7 work on the field,” noted Townes.

Over the summer, they will switch to four days a week, Mondays through Thursdays. Mondays and Wednesdays are in the weight room, while Tuesdays and Thursdays are on the field.

“In the weight room, it’s simply about getting strong, but on the field on Tuesdays, we work explosion, footwork, athleticism. Thursdays are all about football… installing schemes, doing drills, running plays, etc.,” said Pace.

Since Pace took over as head coach, there have consistently been 50 team members or more participating in training each day. However, practice is not just for football players. All students and student athletes are highly encouraged to participate.

“Our workouts are for everyone,” said Pace. “I invite any athlete to join us, especially on Tuesdays. We’re just working on being better overall Flucos.”

Last season, the Flucos had a record of 4-6. They placed 5th in the district, and this caused them to miss the playoffs. The coaches are using this offseason to train and to get the team ready for next season. “My goal is to win the district and host a playoff game,” said Townes.

“(We want) to hold the opposing teams to 14 points a game. Fluvanna Football has changed the way we do things,” said Pace. “ I challenged our young men to step up and work harder than they had before and the payoff is beginning to take shape.”

Whether you are a returning football player, a student athlete, or someone who wants to stay in shape, the Fluvanna football team welcomes anyone to offseason training. The team is out four days a week training over the summer.

“Last year, for example, we had 5-10 young Lady Flucos join us every Tuesday, and even one that came back from college to stay in shape,” said Pace.

If you are interested in offseason training and want more information about it, email Mitchell Pace at [email protected].