Even with 10 returning starters, Cave Spring will be concentrating its effort on rebuilding its offensive line, as the Knights ride into the 2010 campaign in a very competitive River Ridge District.

With 10 returning starters, seven on both sides of the ball, along with 18 seniors, the Knights are looking to improve on last year's third place finish in the district and another run deep into the playoffs. Cave Spring made it all the way to the Group AA, Division 3 state semifinals, where they fell to eventual state champion Northside, 28-7, on a snowy Saturday afternoon at Dwight Bogle Stadium.

Returning starters for the Knights, who finished with a 10-3 mark last year, are Josh Woodrum (senior, QB), Michael Cole (senior, WR/DB), Nick O'Keefe (senior, TE/DE), Tyler Kemp (senior, TE/DE), Reece Kemp (senior, WR/DB), Noah DeWeese (senior, OL), Sam Wright (junior, RB), Jack Bondurant (senior, DL), Adam Anderson (senior, RB/LB), Ryan Gerhardt (junior, RB/LB).

In addition to their returning starters, Coach Tim Fulton is looking for Michael Mannon, Austin Micklem, Nick Frohock, Tony Simmons and Reece Kingery to make an impact on this year's season.

Last year, the Knights averaged putting up 24.5 points per game, while their defense gave up 17.5 points per game.

"We return a large number of athletic players on both sides of the ball," said Fulton. "After graduating all five starting offensive linemen, this will be an area where we will focus on rebuilding."

When ask what is the top game of the season, the coach replied, "The next game."

Cave Spring opens its season on Friday, Aug, 27, when they host Staunton River in a 7:30 contest.