The West Elk Patriots are gearing up for a Week 1 matchup against Cedar Vale, with head coach Ian Denton entering his second year at the helm.

 

The Patriots faced the Spartans in Week 5 last season, falling 54-0, and they’ll get another shot at Cedar Vale when the two teams meet again this Friday.

 

Denton says he's making some changes to how he runs practice as the season progresses, especially after dealing with injuries last year and having a smaller roster this season.

 

Along with those changes, Denton has given his team the EAT mantra — effort, attitude and toughness. Denton says those three values will be a point of emphasis for the Patriots throughout the season.

 

West Elk will host Cedar Vale Friday night with kickoff set for 7 p.m. and a chance for an opening-season win.