It’s August, and that means it’s time for the start of high school football practice.

At least in Texas.

Muleshoe, Farwell and Bovina all open practice officially on Monday.

Muleshoe coach David Wood begins his 15th season with the Mules, who are seejing a 13th trip to the postseason in that time.

The Mules (10-1 a year ago) were ousted from the Class 2A Division I playoffs in the opening round last fall after going 15-0 and winning the title in 2008.

Wood said he anticipates around 80-85 prospects for the start of workouts.

“If we actually have that many come out, it’ll be higher than average,” Wood said. “But we usually expect about that many.”

The Mules scrimmage at Lubbock Cooper on Aug. 14 and participate in a three-way scrimmage at LaMesa with Idalou on Aug. 21. Their season opener is at Shallowater on Aug. 27.

At Farwell, Mike Prokop begins his first season with the Steers after a successful 10-year run at Texico. He said he expects around 35-40 players on Monday.

“During our non-distrit schedule, we’ll just try to put everybody in the right place so we’re ready when district comes,” Prokop said.

The Steers (5-6 in 2009) scrimmage at Tahoka on Aug. 14 and at Texico on Aug. 19 before opening at Morton on Aug. 27.

Bovina coach Hector Guevara, beginning his fifth season, hopes to lead the Mustangs (8-3 last year) to their fourth Class 1A playoff berth since he took over.

Guevara said he expects between 50-55 prospects. The Mustangs open at home against Hale Center on Aug. 27.

“Our schedule is real tough, but we’re excited,” he said. “We’re going to take it one game at a time and, hopefully, learn from each game.”

New Mexico squads get going on Aug. 9.