The excitement surrounding the 2026 high school football reached a new level on Wednesday.

EBR Schools Superintendent LaMont Cole, Mayor-President Sid Edwards, players and coaches joined in a press conference to promote the “Battle on the Bluff” High School Football Jamboree set for Thursday and Friday, Aug. 27-28, at Southern University’s A.W. Mumford Stadium.

The jamboree will feature six games and 12 teams: Belaire, Broadmoor, Capitol, Glen Oaks, Istrouma, Liberty, McKinley, Northeast, Scotlandville, Tara and Woodlawn.

“I’m looking forward to some exciting football games being played,” Cole said to a crowd that also included cheerleaders from Capitol, the Liberty band and student media teams.

Edwards, the event’s sponsor, said he is looking forward to being on the sidelines.

“I’m excited for the jamboree. I’m going to be out there. I want to come see you ball,” he said.

Cole and Edwards, a former coach, reminded the players of the importance of coaches in the lives of young people. Coaches are ‘lifesavers,” Edwards said.

“What you young men have to understand is this: They do this to coach. They do this on win, but they do not carry or put the value of themselves of simply winning championships. They’re here to develop you as men, and that’s what they do,” he said.

Cole encouraged the players to embrace every moment of their high school football experience, particularly the seniors.

“This is your last year of playing high school football,” he said. “It should be an amazing experience of your life, because you won’t get a year back. So cherish every moment. Cherish every moment. Cherish the time you have with your high school teammates. Cherish the conversations you have with your coaches,” he said. “If you’re anything like me, you will cherish this for the rest of your life.”

The press conference also featured remarks from School Board President Shashonnie Steward, Vice President Cliff Lewis and board member Emily Soulé, along with interviews with players and coaches.

Tickets for the jamboree can be purchased at BIT.LY/EBRSCHOOLS-TIX. Elementary school-age children get in FREE when accompanied by a parent who purchases a ticket.

BATTLE ON THE BLUFF SCHEDULE

Thursday, Aug. 27

• Belaire vs. Broadmoor | 5:30 p.m.
• Woodlawn vs. Madison Prep | 6:45 p.m.
• Northeast vs. Tara | 8 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 28

• Istrouma vs. McKinley | 6 p.m.
• Scotlandville vs. Liberty | 7:15 p.m.
• Glen Oaks vs. Capitol | 8:30 p.m.