Friday night marks the 80th edition of the Battle of the Bone, one of the River Valley’s longest‑running high school football rivalries. Alma High School will host Van Buren High School in a game that carries special meaning for Alma’s new head coach, Jeremie Burns.
Coach Burns Returns Home
Jeremie Burns, a former Alma player who grew up in the town and previously served on the Airedales coaching staff, steps into the head‑coach role for the first time this season. “It’s a huge honor to be able to be the head coach this year of the Airedales,” Burns said. “It’s a big game for both towns.”
Burns recalled the electric atmosphere of his own playing days, when fans lined the fence and the stands were filled to capacity. “You come out and it’s typical high school football. The stands are packed, people lining the fence, whether you’re at Van Buren or whether you’re at Alma,” he said.
Preparing for a Tough Matchup
Alma has spent the past several weeks installing a new offensive and defensive system under Burns’ direction. The coach expects Van Buren to present an immediate challenge, especially on the ground. “They do a great job on the offensive side of the ball, Van Buren does, with their running back and quarterback,” Burns noted.
Stopping the running game will be a top priority for Alma’s defense. “We got to be able to stop the running game. They’re going to have some guys be able to run the ball and control the clock,” Burns explained. He added that disciplined gap responsibilities and proper angles will be essential to limiting Van Buren’s ground attack.
Early Test for a New Coaching Staff
The Battle of the Bone serves as an early test for Burns’ staff and the players adapting to new schemes. “Win, lose or draw, we’re out here to make these guys better. It’s still early for us,” the coach said.
Alma’s non‑conference schedule is designed to prepare the team for conference play later in the season. “It’s a big challenge, but also a good challenge because we get to test ourselves early against a quality opponent,” Burns said.
Community Support Expected
Beyond the gridiron, Burns anticipates a familiar hometown atmosphere. “It’s going to be a packed house, so you better get here early,” he warned. Cars are traditionally lined along Main Street, and both home and visitor sections fill the stands. Pre‑game activities are also planned before kickoff.
Burns praised his players for their summer preparation, urging the community to show up and cheer loudly. “We need everybody to show up and be loud for the Airedales, and cheer these kids on,” he said.
The 80th Battle of the Bone promises to be a celebration of tradition, community pride, and the spirit of high school football in the River Valley.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
