The defending state champion Amherst County Lancers 2008 football campaign may be about a lot more than just the pigskin.
Some see this year's team as the best way to restore faith in the student body.
While an undercover sheriff's office sting at the school netted seven drug related arrests, it left the entire community, particularly the high school, with several days of unwanted publicity.
At least two of those arrested were athletes, including former star quarterback and Tech recruit, Peter Rose.
The Hokies dropped Rose's scholarship offer shortly after his arrest.
Some in the community hope the football program will help restore Amherst County High School's reputation in the region, a reputation strengthen by back to back Class AA Division 4 championships in 2006 and 2007.
The Lancers bring in new head football coach Cecil Phillips.
Phillips started the football program at Class AAA King's Fork High School in Suffolk.
Phillips has been busy during pre-season two-a-days installing a new Wing-T formation offense.
Phillips said he will stick with Lancers patented 3-5-3 defensive scheme known for its emphasis on team speed.
The Lancers open the season at home in a what some fans are billing as an already pivotal game against Brookville.
The Bees are considered one of the top Division 3 teams in the state.
Former head coach Scott Abell left the Lancers to join the coaching staff at Washington & Lee University.
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