Carrollton hosts Malvern, Southern Local, New Phila

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Carrollton, Malvern, Southern Local and New Philadelphia high school football teams converged on Community Field in Carrollton for 7-on-7 play July 11.

The Ohio High School Athletic Association announced in April football 7-on-7 competition will now be permitted at any time prior to and after the season, other than the 28-day no-contact period immediately after the season. Previously, 7-on-7 competition was not permitted until May 15. Full practice and hitting are still not permitted during 7-on-7 play,

Helmets and cleats are the only equipment permitted.

The change mean that prior to May 15, a limit of seven football players from the same school teams can now play together in a 7-on-7 competition, and there is no limit on the number of 7-on-7 competitions in which a player or coach can participate. After May 15, there is no change to the current regulation, meaning there is no limit on the number of players from the same school team who can compete together in 7-on-7 competition.

“We have been talking about the football 7-on-7 regulation for some time and we believe that football should be treated the same as our other team sports, essentially allowing football athletes the same opportunities as their peers in other team sports,” said Doug Ute, OHSAA executive director. “Most other states already allow it, so there have been a growing number of situations when Ohio student-athletes have had to pass up opportunities in the winter and spring due to our regulations. We want to stress that hitting is still not permitted in the off-season, but this change expands what football players can do outside the season.”

In addition, there are 13 days of coaching permitted in excess of the seven-player limit from May 15 to July 31. Contact and equipment, other than helmets and cleats, remain prohibited during that time.

The Warriors are scheduled to host Lakewood and United Local in a scrimmage Aug. 10 at 10 a.m. at Community Field and travel to Wintersville Aug. 15 for a scrimmage with Indian Creek at 10 a.m.

The Warriors open the season on the road Aug. 23 at East Liverpool. Game time is 7 p.m.

The Hornets open the season at home Aug. 23 against Youngstown Valley Christian. Game time is 7 p.m.