A new season on the horizon
Bay County high school football programs have finalized their 2026 schedules, setting the stage for a competitive year that begins with kickoff classics on August 13‑14. The regular season will open the following weekend, August 20‑21, and will run through October 30, when final games determine district standings.
Games are marked with designations that help fans follow the action: "DC" for district matchups, "HC" for homecoming contests, and "SN" for senior nights. These tags will appear on the published schedules, allowing families and alumni to plan attendance around the most anticipated events.
A youth football camp held at Tommy Oliver Stadium in Panama City on June 6, 2026, drew dozens of young athletes eager to sharpen their skills under the guidance of local coaches. The camp, organized by community volunteers, emphasized fundamentals, safety, and sportsmanship, and served as a preview of the talent that will headline the upcoming season.
Arnold High School will welcome a new head soccer coach this year: Mike Chrivia, who previously led Bay High School’s soccer program. Chrivia’s move brings a fresh tactical perspective to the Mariners, and his experience is expected to elevate the team’s performance in the competitive regional league.
Bozeman High School is entering a new FHSAA independent series, a shift that grants the Bucks greater scheduling flexibility and the chance to design a more tailored competitive slate. Athletic directors say the change could boost recruitment and provide more diverse match‑ups across the classification.
The schedule list includes the Arnold Marlins, Bay Tornadoes, Bozeman Bucks, Mosley Dolphins, North Bay Haven Buccaneers, and Rutherford Rams, each of which will face a mix of district rivals and non‑district opponents throughout the season. Homecoming and senior night celebrations are already penciled into the calendar, promising memorable evenings for seniors and their families.
Covering the season’s developments, Panama City News Herald sports reporter Adebanji Bamidele will provide weekly updates, analysis, and player profiles. He can be reached via email or followed on Twitter for the latest insights into Bay County football.