The Atoms will be playing away at Jeb Stuart High School this Friday, Sept. 18. The game will be a neon out and fans are encouraged to come.

Even though AHS lost their last two games against Centerville and Lake Braddock, they plan to do well this game.

“We lost, but our team played very hard against Centerville,” said coach Michael Scott. “Last week we didn’t start really well against Lake Braddock because the team didn’t execute really well in the first half.”

The AHS varsity football team prepares for their games every day after school, about two to three hours each practice.

“How we practiced last week and how the coaches improved us, I think we have a better chance of winning,” said junior Carlos Almana.

The varsity players are used to practicing long hours, but it is very difficult to practice longer because of the schedule change.

“We’ve seen enough things offensively and defensively, and have tricks in our bags so to speak, so our guys pick things up quicker,” said Scott.

Phase two in varsity football just started and Coach Scott has a simple plan. Hopefully the last two games impacted the team in a positive manner to help them strive to win.

“I think our kids are going to respond. Every time I’ve challenged them, they’ve responded,” said Scott.

Also since Stuart and AHS are in the same community, there are similar faces as well a lot of competition and support.

“I think Stuart is great,” said Scott. “It’s a great rivalry, and I believe we played Stuart more than any other team.”

AHS has gotten support before and after games, win or lose.

“We get support from our students and our communities. If you look in stands you see gentlemen and families that have been here 20-30 years, and they don’t have kids going here anymore,” said Scott.