J.R. Tidwell/FCT RHS head football coach Michael Jackson instructs youth camper Blake Pruitt on proper form during a ladder drill.

RUSSELLVILLE — Russellville head football coach Michael Jackson may be new to the Golden Tigers, but hosting a youth football camp in the summer months is nothing new to Jackson.

Every year for the last 10 years Jackson has held such a camp for the youth of the area, and this tradition came with him to Russellville.

Russellville high school hosted around 20 young football hopefuls between fourth and eighth grades Thursday at the practice and game field at Russellville High School.

“I’m excited about getting back into youth camp,” Jackson said. “It’s the first time in a few years that Russellville has had one, and I’m excited to start this back up.”

The campers were split into two main groups, one fore linemen and one for backs and receivers.

Drills included instruction on a proper “fit” position for lineman, running and catching passes for backs and receivers and different agility and speed exercises for both groups.

“Getting to know the young kids of the neighborhood is a tradition,” Jackson said. “It’s a great time for the young kids to get excited about football.”

Some of the Russellville high football coaches were on hand for the camp, but some current RHS players were present to aid in the activities.

“This is a great chance for some of our players to be exposed to some of the younger kids,” Jackson said. “It helps our players understand that the game is fun and helps them give back to the community.”

Jackson has been putting on a youth camp for several years, and he plans on this tradition staying put with him in Russellville.

“We will have a [summer camp] every year,” he said.