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"A lot of credit has to go to Mike Newbanks," Gildehaus said. "He has continued to build the little league football program. That's why our numbers are up at the freshman level."
The team is working around some different schedules with an early start to school. The Knights only ran a brief two-a-day schedule before the start of school.
Gildehaus reported that the Knights aren't going to have a Saturday scrimmage like many other schools, but will work hard to make up.
"We're giving the kids off on Saturday," said Gildehaus. "The Luke 18 event will be held at Borgia and there are at least eight of our kids involved in that. We'll come back Sunday and work hard."
Gildehaus said the athletes came into camp in good condition.
"I think you always want more," Gildehaus said. "They worked extremely hard Monday night. Attitude always is very good. I want us to be more disciplined from Day 1. We don't want to make mistakes."
Gildehaus said many positions are open and some sophomores could fight for varsity playing time.
On the line, Gildehaus has Dale Obermark returning as a starter from last year. Others who could see playing time include Zach Ley and Shay Kiddy. Kiddy was one-half of Borgia's defensive run-stopping combo last season. His partner, Brandon Wahle (Missourian Defensive Player of the Year) is a freshman at Pittsburg State University this fall.
That means Kiddy is going to have to step up this season.
"We did not work a lot on seven-on-seven this summer," said Gildehaus. "We decided to let them play baseball. Baseball is over now and it's time to get to work."
Quarterback Mike Watkins spent his summer working on becoming a better football player. Watkins also could make an impact at defensive back this season.
"Mike worked harder than any of the kids on the field," said Gildehaus. "He will be a force. Thanks to his work, we can possibly throw the ball more than in past years."
Borgia heads to Hermann for a jamboree Aug. 21. There, the Knights will play Hermann, Westminster and Cuba. Events there begin at 7 p.m.
Gildehaus said the Knights are working toward the Aug. 28 season opener for many reasons. The Knights are eager to face St. Clair after losing to the Bulldogs last year, 35-12.
"I will harp on that until St. Clair walks onto the field," said Gildehaus. "We know they are a well-coached team. Coach (John) Butler does a great job. The 50-year celebration will be a wonderful evening only if we play well."
