Columbia, SC (WLTX) - The Columbia Elite Junior Bearcats are looking to defend their state title, after going undefeated in the first year of their program.
On Saturday morning, the young guys took to the field at Brookland-Cayce High School for practice. This comes ahead of their season, which kicks off on August 27.
Coach Darrol Stukes, better known as Coach CD, is the director of the program and says his coaches and athletes have been working hard.
"They do a lot of hard work and we're out here working because we want to repeat as state champs."
Last year the team won the State Championship and made it to the national championship down in Florida.
The 12 and under team made it to the semi-finals, while the 10 and under team came second in the nation.
Along with working hard on the field, the Junior Bearcats are also focused on working hard in the classroom.
"We're academic sound and you have to have at least a C-average to come out and play with us," says Coach Wade Culcleasure. "I've always been told at a young age from my parents that if you listen, you can accomplish a whole lot just paying attention to it. That's what football is really about, is giving you a foundation of listening and following instruction."
The team is hoping to go all the way this year, making it back to the national championship in the fall.
Registration for the team is still open. For any child looking to be a part of the Junior Bearcats check out their Facebook page here.