The Springville-Griffith varsity football team opened its unofficial season on June 3, 2026, by staging a series of 7-on-7 scrimmages at St. Francis High School in Pennsylvania. The drills marked the first public appearance of the program under new head coach Mark Benton, who took over the program after a lengthy search.
A Test Against Larger Opponents
Benton, who previously served as offensive coordinator at a neighboring district, used the session to evaluate his roster and install a faster tempo on both sides of the ball. Players responded positively, with several newcomers showing flashes of athleticism that had been absent in previous years.
The Griffins faced off against two external squads, Lake Shore and a second team from St. Francis, allowing them to measure themselves against larger schools. Despite the size disparity, Springville-Griffith held its own, stringing together several successful drives and limiting turnovers.
Community Reaction
Local fans gathered on the sidelines, cheering each completion and noting the palpable excitement that had been missing during the offseason. Social media posts from alumni and parents alike praised the energetic atmosphere and the coach’s emphasis on fundamentals.