Early jamboree test to help prepare St. Michael the Archangel for tough regular season slate

St. Michael The Archangel looks to improve on their 5-6 season under coach Paul Varnado in 2016 with a new leader at the helm.

New head coach Justin Hutchinson looks to give the Warriors a whole new outlook, however, it won’t be easy for St. Michael thanks in part to a challenging schedul. It all starts on August 25 with a jamboree against powerhouse Catholic High.

Hutchinson recognizes his squad has an uphill battle against the Bears but feels these types of games will help him determine what kind of players he has on hand.

“I think all of us are anxious to get into that first game situation,” said Hutchinson, who is grateful for an early test before the games count against other quality competition.

“Jamborees you really don’t worry about the outcome so much,” Hutchinson explained. “You really want to see how your kids compete. I think its good for them to step into a challenge against a team that is really high quality and give you an idea of where you stand.”

Three of the last five teams on St. Michael’s regular season schedule include a state champion (Lutcher), a state runner up (Parkview Baptist) and a state semifinalist (Plaquemine) from last season.

The Warriors open up the regular season on the road Sept. 1 against Episcopal in Baton Rouge.