As the football season approaches, Colorado Springs is abuzz with anticipation. From high school fields to college stadiums, teams are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting year.
High School Football
Several local high schools are preparing for the upcoming season:
- Manitou Springs High School Mustangs: Under the leadership of Head Coach Matt Heinz, the Mustangs are focusing on developing competitiveness, accountability, selflessness, and toughness in their players. Coach Heinz brings 16 years of coaching experience, including time at nationally ranked Mountain Pointe in Arizona, as well as Pine Creek, Discovery Canyon, and Tolleson High Schools. Learn more
- Air Academy High School Kadets: Head Coach Waymond Jackson II emphasizes serving as an elite program that uses the game of football to support the development of student-athletes, engage the Kadet community, and serve the Colorado Springs area. Learn more
- Harrison High School Panthers: The Panthers have a series of games lined up, including matchups against Widefield, Standley Lake, and Adams City. Learn more
- Liberty High School Lancers: The Lancers are preparing for their season with a focus on building a strong team dynamic. Learn more
- Sand Creek High School Scorpions: The Scorpions are looking to build on their previous performances and have a series of games scheduled for the upcoming season. Learn more
- Pine Creek High School Eagles: The Eagles have a strong lineup of games and are aiming for a successful season. Learn more
College Football
On the collegiate front, the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) Mountain Lions are coming off a remarkable year. The Mountain Lions secured their first Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) All-Sports Competition Cup, propelled by six regular-season conference championships. These titles included women’s lacrosse, men’s soccer, volleyball, and both indoor and outdoor women’s track and field. Learn more
Additionally, the University of Colorado Buffaloes, led by Coach Deion Sanders, commenced their 2026 training camp in Colorado Springs on August 2. The team held practices at Fountain-Fort Carson High School before returning to Boulder on August 8. This off-site preparation mirrors a similar move in 2024 when Sanders took the team to All-City Stadium in Denver. The Buffs are preparing for their season opener on September 3 against Georgia Tech in Atlanta, which will be broadcast at 6 p.m. on ESPN. Learn more
As the season unfolds, fans can look forward to thrilling matchups and the continued growth of football talent in Colorado Springs.