Football camps and two-a-days have players and coaches alike braving scorching conditions.

With a state championship to defend, the Panthers of Abilene Christian High School begin practice early in the morning and take water breaks nearly four times an hour.

Mark Coley, coach of the Panthers said that he encourages his team to take breaks and not try to "be a hero".

ACHS senior, Trevor Tyson, said "Our coach always has our best interests in mind and he knows what our point is, where we need to stop and get water".

At the Abilene High School Football camps, grades four through nine hone their skills under the watchful eyes of coaches who stress the importance of watching out for each other and sitting out if they need to.

No matter the age, football players across the area are paying attention to one another and making sure their teammates are safe.