Robbinsdale Cooper excited for fall football season

The Minnesota State High School League approved the start of football and volleyball for the fall season.

Robbinsdale Cooper is not wasting any time getting ready for the season to begin playing games on October 9th. They still had practices from the 12 that were allowed for the fall before Monday’s decision. KSTP Sports was at the Hawks’ practice on Monday evening.

"At this time, based on the data, it’s been a great move and a great decision they (MSHSL) made. I think for our kids the mental capacity is something they needed. We’ve seen over the summer that the kids showed up. They needed this," said Willie Howard, head coach.

***To see video from Robbinsdale Cooper and hear from coach Willie Howard and select players, CLICK THE PLAY ICON***

There is no question teams in the state are happy with playing games during the fall season. Originally, the plan was to play games March 15 – May 15.

"It’s been kind of a rough situation for us as far as wanting to get out here. It’s finally good to be able to know that at 9 o’clock in the morning we found out we will be able to have a season, so it’s amazing to be out here," said Jaxon Howard, sophomore TE/DE for Cooper.

"I’m blessed to be in this position and I was excited to hear the news. We’ve been working very hard for this and we’re ready to see what we can do," said Joseph Russell, junior QB for Cooper.

Cooper is still waiting for the schedule to be amended to see what teams they’ll be facing in the coming weeks. There is a chance that there won’t be a Prep Bowl, but the decision for having a title game hasn’t been finalized yet.

Jaxon Howard is one of the highest-recruited Class of 2023 tight ends in the country and has over 40 big-time college offers. His father, Willie, is also a former Minnesota Vikings player.