By Robert Hudson

The Selma Times-Journal

While Saturday will mark week two of college football season, it wall also mark the beginning of a new season for the youth of Selma.

Selma Youth Football teams will open a new season Saturday at 9 a.m. with games at Memorial Stadium.

Coaches of youth teams say their players are anxious to finally be able to play some football.

“The kids seem like they’re excited to play because it gives them something else to do,” said Stacy Crenshaw, coach of a 10, 11 and 12-year-old team. “They’re looking forward to football season.”

Crenshaw said he also believes the new season will give the children another extracurricular activity.

“For most kids I think it’s a break and gives them time away from school,” Crenshaw said. “It gives them another after-school function. A lot of them are excited and ready to play.”

Robert Dower, who coaches for an 11-and-12-year-old team, said the kids are really excited to get back on the field.

“They’re anxious,” Dower said. “They’re ready to get out here and play some ball. Everybody’s excited and ready to play some football.”

For the young players of the youth league, Saturday will bring an opportunity to get out on the field and have some fun.

“I’ve been wanting to play football all summer and it’s really fun hitting and all that,” said Hunter Wolfe, who plays on Crenshaw’s team.

Some young players see football season as a chance to have some fun with their friends.

“We just like to come out here and have fun and hangout with our friends,” said Zeakeyas Blake. “We also work hard to be the best.”

Other players see the beginning of the season as another chance to keep working toward their dream.

“It’s fun because I’ve wanted to play all my life,” said Kobe Campbell.

“I can keep trying to achieve my goal of going pro.”

Zaykeese Johnson, another one of Crenshaw’s players, agreed that working hard this season will help him achieve his dream.

“It feels fun and I just come out here and do what I’ve got to do,” Johnson said.

“I’m happy to be back so I can keep trying to get myself to the NFL.”