Grand Forks high school football teams open practice following playoff seasons

The Grand Forks high school football season is set to commence as both the Red River and Central teams begin their preseason practices. The Knights and Roughriders, both of which reached the North Dakota Division AA playoffs in 2025, held their first full preseason practices on a sunny day in Grand Forks. Red River practiced next to Cushman Field, while Central worked out at the practice field adjacent to Purpur Arena.

Red River head coach Vyrn Muir noted that the team has undergone significant changes over the offseason, with several key players graduating. The Riders, who lost in the quarterfinals last season, will rely on senior Reese Walters returning after recovering from an injury. Walters had been the starting quarterback during the previous season before his injury.

Muir highlighted that the Riders have four quarterbacks vying for the starting position, with Reese as the clear favorite and sophomore Joe Motherwell stepping in as the backup.

Central head coach Jake Schauer also pointed out notable absences, including the loss of three All-Eastern Dakota Conference players to the offseason. The Knights, who advanced to the playoffs despite a 42-7 defeat to Devils Lake the previous season, will have to fill significant shoes, particularly in the skill positions. Schauer expressed optimism about the incoming talent, mentioning that Brody Leddige, the starting quarterback last season, will now have to compete with three other quality quarterbacks for the starting role.