Area teams took the time to participate in scrimmages over the weekend to fine tune their rosters and give players a chance to experience game-time scenarios.

While players and coaches benefited from the scrimmages, referees also got the chance to work the chains, and their various positions as well.

Before each scrimmage was held, teams met at the 50 yard-line to discuss with the referees rule changes from 2009 to 2010.

After the new rules had been established, the scrimmages began.

Elkin ventured to Boone to Watauga High School to participate in scrimmages against schools like Hibriten (Lenoir) and Watauga. While Watauga and Hibriten are in different levels of competition, Elkin held their own against the competition they faced.

Starmount hosted South Iredell last Thursday night, and West Iredell on Saturday Morning. Starmount's big three, Jake Barr, M.J. Bryant, and Israel Murphy all showed up and played well.

During Saturday's match up, Starmount's line struggled against a bigger West Iredell d-line.

East Wilkes traveled to East Rowan for their match up Friday evening, giving seniors Steven Gregory and McKinley White a chance to hit the field before the first game of their senior year.

Friday evening, Surry Central hosted Forbush in their scrimmage. The time on the field gave Forbush coach Chris Johnson a chance to see how far his new influence has had on the Falcons since the first days of practice. Devin Doss had several strong runs. The Falcon defense gave up a few big plays, but also came up with a few big stops of their own.

All area teams will begin their 2010 season Friday evening. Starmount will host Mount Airy, Elkin will host Surry Central and Forbush will travel to North Surry.