We’re just a few weeks from the kickoff of the high school football season, and while I’m still knocking the sand out of my flip flops, I’m beginning to get ready.

We had media days here in late July, and it was great to meet many of the area’s top players and get reacquainted with coaches (and be introduced to numerous new ones). By the way, thanks to all those who participated. I think everything went smoothly, and this year’s “experiment” likely will become an annual staple.

The players and coaches already are a week into dealing with the broiling Florida sun and the smoke-thick humidity which often accompanies it. But fans are mainly in Q&A mode, asking things like, “Who is going to be the area’s best team?” and “What teams around the state are title contenders?”

I have educated guesses right now (still in beach mode, remember?), but a place I highly recommend looking for any list, fact, feature or prediction to get you ready for this year is Varsity Sports Media’s Florida Football magazine.

Managing editor Corey Long, talent evaluator Larry Blustein and company have put out a 232-page guide that is sure to create discussion and debate. It’s well-worth the $8.95 cover price (before taxes) and is available at most bookstores.

We will be running “two-a-day” local team previews up until the season-openers and have a special section planned for Aug. 26 that will include an in-depth look at GHS senior defensive end/Gator commitment Earl Okine, as well as our top 50 recruits list, local schedules and numerous other tidbits.

I promise before then my mind will be completely on fall sports and not summer vacation.