High School Football Season Begins in New Mexico

News Summary

The high school football season in New Mexico is about to begin, featuring preseason activities that highlight top players and allow fans to participate in a voting contest for standout athletes. The first games are slated for later this month, with anticipation building in the community. Preseason workouts are already scheduled to kick off shortly, enhancing excitement among athletes and fans alike.

Albuquerque, NM – High School Football Season Begins August 18, 2025

The high school football season across New Mexico is set to officially kick off on August 18, 2025. This marks the start of another competitive year for student-athletes, with preseason activities beginning shortly beforehand and fans eager to watch top talent emerge on the gridiron.

Preseason Focus on Top Players by Position

Leading up to the season, preseason coverage will highlight some of the most notable players by their positions, especially key offensive skill position athletes such as wide receivers who are expected to make significant impacts in 2025. This focus aims to shed light on rising stars and established players preparing to compete at high levels in the upcoming months.

Voting Contest for Player of the Year Potential

Fans involved in the New Mexico high school football community will have the opportunity to participate in a voting poll on which player possesses the greatest potential for a standout 2025 season. The voting period will close on July 30 at 8 p.m. PT, encouraging community engagement and anticipation for the season’s top athletes.

Top Wide Receivers to Watch in 2025

Several wide receivers have already demonstrated impressive performances in 2024 and are expected to lead their teams once again. The list of top wideouts includes:

• Cox-Liggins: With 64 catches, 1,112 yards, and 12 touchdowns in 2024, averaging over 101 yards per game, he stands out as a premier receiver.
• Duran: Achieved 941 yards on just 37 catches, with 12 touchdowns, showcasing efficiency and big-play ability.
• Erickson: Recorded 57 catches for 906 yards and 9 touchdowns during the 2024 season.
• Smith: Led all freshmen with 62 catches, 698 yards, and 12 touchdowns on a 10-2 team in 2024, indicating a promising future.
• Lee: Gathered 58 catches for 1,182 yards and 17 touchdowns, helping an 8-3 team perform strongly.
• Maldanado: Expected to be the top wide receiver heading into 2025 after posting 918 yards and 11 touchdowns during a season where his team claimed the 6A title.
• Montano: Contributed 35 receptions for 417 yards and 5 touchdowns in 2024, with expectations of further growth.
• Winnikoff: Finished with 51 catches, 781 yards, and 5 touchdowns; considered a candidate for the top wideout spot in 2025.

Season Schedule and Key Dates

Preseason workouts are scheduled to begin on August 4. Following this, other fall sports including soccer, cross country, volleyball, and golf will commence on August 7. The first football games are slated for the weekend of August 21-23.

Recent Team Performance and Goals

The Grants Pirates finished the 2024 season with a record of 6-6, qualifying for the playoffs and marking a solid postseason appearance. Their primary goal for 2025 is to improve upon this record and pursue a stronger competitive run throughout the season.

Community Engagement and Fundraising Activities

In addition to the upcoming sports season, community efforts continue to foster support for young athletes. Notably, nearly 100 basketball teams participated in the J.B. White Memorial Tournament, which aimed to raise funds for a scholarship dedicated to a former player. This event highlights the ongoing community commitment to youth sports development and honoring athletic legacy.

As preparations for the 2025 season accelerate, schools, athletes, and fans alike are motivated by the anticipation of another exciting year of high school football and other fall sports across New Mexico.

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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