News Summary
The New Mexico high school football season is about to kick off, with preseason workouts beginning shortly. Fans are eager to see key players impacting their teams. A voting poll allows fans to choose which player they think will excel in the upcoming season. Alongside football, other fall sports like soccer and volleyball will also commence, creating a vibrant athletic atmosphere across New Mexico. Teams are preparing to improve upon past performances as the excitement builds for the start of the competitive season.
New Mexico High School Football Season Set to Kick Off August 18, 2025
The New Mexico high school football season is set to begin on August 18, 2025, with fans eagerly anticipating the action on the field. The season kicks off with preseason workouts starting August 4, ahead of the first games scheduled for the weekend of August 21-23. As teams prepare for the upcoming season, focus will be placed on key players who are expected to make significant impacts on their respective teams.
Key Players to Watch
Preseason coverage will highlight top players categorized by position, notably in the wide receiver role. Players garnering attention include:
- Cox-Liggins: In 2024, he recorded 64 catches for 1,112 yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging 101 yards per game.
- Duran: He accumulated 941 yards on 37 catches, scoring 12 touchdowns last season.
- Erickson: With 57 catches for 906 yards and 9 touchdowns, he proved to be a reliable target in 2024.
- Smith: Leading all freshmen, he recorded 62 catches, accumulating 698 yards and 12 touchdowns for a team that finished 10-2.
- Lee: He emerged as a top talent with 58 receptions, 1,182 yards, and 17 touchdowns for his 8-3 team.
- Maldanado: Looking ahead to 2025, he is expected to excel after a strong 2024, finishing with 918 yards and 11 touchdowns in a 6A title-winning season.
- Montano: Contributing 35 receptions, 417 yards, and 5 touchdowns last season, he is anticipated to thrive in 2025.
- Winnikoff: Last season, he made 51 catches for 781 yards and 5 touchdowns, potentially rising to the No. 1 wideout spot this coming season.
Fan Engagement and Voting
In an effort to engage with the community, fans are invited to participate in a voting poll to identify which player might have the biggest season in 2025. This voting will remain open until July 30 at 8 p.m. PT, allowing supporters to express their opinions on who they believe will stand out on the field.
Fall Sports Season Begins
As the football season prepares to launch, other fall sports including soccer, cross country, volleyball, and golf will commence on August 7. This interconnected sports season is set to create an exciting atmosphere for athletes and fans alike across New Mexico.
Past Performance of Grants Pirates
Reflecting on last year’s performance, the Grants Pirates concluded the 2024 season with a 6-6 overall record, successfully earning a playoff berth. The team’s goal for the upcoming season is to build upon this foundation, striving for a stronger performance in 2025.
In addition to the approaching football season, New Mexico recently witnessed nearly 100 basketball teams participate in the J.B. White Memorial Tournament, which raised funds for a scholarship honoring a former player. Such initiatives highlight the commitment of the athletic community towards fostering youth development in sports.
As the days count down to the start of the football season, anticipation builds throughout the New Mexico high school sports community as teams prepare to showcase their skills and potential on the gridiron.
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Additional Resources
- Sports Illustrated: New Mexico High School Football WRs
- On3: Grants Pirates Best and Worst Case Scenario
- Santa Fe New Mexican: NMAA Calls for More Volunteer Referees
- Wikipedia: High School Football
- ABQ Journal: New Mexico High School Football Coverage
- Google Search: New Mexico High School Football

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