The Meridian Hawks football program under first-year coach Kyle Sparks are eyeing an encore, playoff-qualifying performance this fall.

The last time Meridian made the postseason in 2008, it followed a 5-5 season the year prior. Coach Sparks is very excited about the experience he has coming back up front.

As Coach Sparks gets to know his team, he emphasizes the experience and size of his kids up front and also is pleased with the competitive spirit his team has.

A graduate of Maroa-Forsyth High School in 2008, Coach Sparks says he wants to spread things out. He likes the skill players he has coming into the season.

So far in practices leading up to week one next Friday, Coach Sparks likes the physicality his team is showing and is very pleased with the competitive fire in practice. 

Meridian opens the season at El Paso-Gridley.