GATESVILLE – Last year Gates County High was 7-4 and lost in the first round of the 1A state playoffs.

For 2013 the Red Barons will open the season at home beginning on August 23 against Bertie. Following that contest Gates will hit the road for Elizabeth City and an August 30 date at Pasquotank. On September 6 they’re back home hosting their final 2A Northeastern Coastal Conference opponent in Currituck before they close out non-conference action at Plymouth on September 13. Gates will play the Vikings twice this season with the second game being a league game in the new 1A Coastal 10 conference.

“We return experience in the offensive backfield in pre-season All-State running back Brandall Riddick and quarterback Andrew Wiggins,” said veteran coach Matt Biggy. “We will also have competition for players on the offensive line.”

Riddick rushed for 1,821 yards and 21 touchdowns last year as Gates fell to Ayden-Grifton in the first round of the playoffs.

“Our defense will be led by defensive tackle Derrick Bellamy and by defensive back Josh Cross,” coach Biggy added.

The Red Barons will open play in their new conference with a first-time meeting at home on September 20 against Mattamuskeet. Following that contest will be another home date, this time against Creswell on September 27.

Gates’ first conference road game will come at Perquimans on October 4. One week later they’re back at home versus Camden on October 11 and then take to the road again October 18 against the Manteo Redskins.

The Red Barons will play Columbia at home on October 25 followed by an open date. Play resumes on November 8 in a home rematch against Plymouth.

“We’re moving to a tough conference,” said coach Biggy. “Our goal is to win every game and to battle for the conference championship.”

“Plymouth is the defending state champion,” Biggy added. “They, Manteo, and Camden will be very good this year.”

Saturday, August 10, Gates will be in a scrimmage with Northampton County in Creeksville at 10 a.m.

The 1A state playoffs will begin November 15.