Each game week brings new challenges for every single high school football team in the state of Alabama. Teams must prepare for a new offense and defense, mend injuries and develop a game plan for a new opponent, all in just four days.

On top of all that, the Goshen Eagles are dealing with more off-the-field issues than most. Head coach Bart Snyder is “feeling bad,” and “a little under the weather” this week after catching a virus early Tuesday morning. It is also homecoming week for the Eagles which requires the coaches and players to take part in numerous activities around the community and school.

Despite all the off-field happenings, Snyder said he will try to keep the routine as close as possible this week.

“We are going to stay the same as much as we can,” said Snyder. “It is homecoming, and they need to enjoy it, especially the seniors. But we all have to remember that we have a ball game to play Friday night. All those parties will be a lot more fun with a win.”

Snyder watched practice Tuesday afternoon from the hillside in the north end of the Eagle’s Nest while sitting in his pick-up truck. He said he has not even been inside the Goshen field house in fear getting his players sick.

Snyder said a team-wide sickness the next two weeks would be very bad for his team.

We definitely don’t need a bug or anything going around right now,” Snyder said. “These next two weeks are extremely important for us, and we need all the healthy players we can get. We win the next two, we are in the playoffs for the fifth straight season.”

Goshen plays host to Highland Home Friday night. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.