The countdown is finally over. Helmets are buckled. Pads are on. Whistles are blaring. Across the state, the turf is about to come alive — because high school football is back.
Starting Sunday, the Pittsburgh Union Progress kicks off its full preseason coverage, bringing fans daily in-depth preview stories, exclusive features and insider looks at every team, in every conference, in every classification until the season gets underway Aug. 22. But it doesn’t end there.
Throughout the season, the PUP will unleash its football rankings every week, beginning Aug. 21 with its preseason listings. “The Best in Show” rankings of the WPIAL and City League’s top teams will continue throughout the regular season, along with a Game of the Week, all-encompassing football notebook and feature stories throughout each week.
So, beginning Sunday with the City League and WPIAL Class 1A, tune in each day for previews and feature stories, as well as an inside look at the upcoming season from high school sports expert Brad Everett to wrap up our preseason coverage Aug. 21, along with a breakdown of WPIAL Class 6A.
Whether you’re a die-hard booster, a player or former player, or a proud parent in the stands, our coverage will have you locked in from now until the final whistle of the season. Follow us online and on social media throughout the season for real-time updates, exclusive interviews and more.
Here’s what to expect:
- Daily features: Deep dives into breakout players, coaching strategies and offseason storylines.
- Team-by-team previews: Every program gets its spotlight — no school is left behind.
- Conference rundowns: Who’s rebuilding? Who’s reloading? We’ll break down every race.
- Player spotlights: Meet the athletes poised to take the spotlight this fall.
- Behind-the-scenes looks: From film rooms to weight rooms, we’re giving you access to the grind that fuels Friday nights.
Editor Rick Davis
Reporters Brad Everett, Steve Rotstein, John Santa, Rob Joesbury
Photographer Emily Matthews
Art designer Jennifer Kundrach
Web designer Tyler Pecyna
Rick, an associate sports editor for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, is currently on strike and working as sports editor for the Union Progress. Contact him at rdavis@unionprogress.com.