Tigers put finishing touches on football off season

July 10, 2025

By: Aries Ramos

The Belton Journal

The countdown is officially on for the Belton Tigers football team as the start of the 2025 season draws closer. With August 11 marking

the first day of UIL-approved conditioning and August 16 opening the door for full-contact practices, the Tigers are putting the finishing touches on an offseason filled with development, competition, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Last fall, Belton finished fourth in District 11-5A Division I, clinching a playoff spot. Though their postseason run was short-lived following a first-round loss to the Randle Lions, the experience served as motivation heading into the offseason.

One of the key components of the Tigers’ summer has been their participation in 7-on7 football, a format that allows skill position

players to sharpen their timing, communication, and decision-making. Head coach Brett Sniffin emphasized the importance of these sessions in an earlier interview.

“For the kids, it’s about learning the basics of our offense and defense,” Sniffin said. “It also helps build chemistry, especially between our quarterbacks and wide receivers. On defense, it’s all about eye discipline and communication.” Belton’s 7-on-7 practices focused primarily on live-action scrimmages, giving players the opportunity to compete and improve through repetition. Positions like wide receiver and defensive back especially benefit from the format, with reps helping players develop timing and coverage recognition in real time.

“We want to see our guys compete,” Sniffin said. “There’s no pass rush, so it comes down to discipline, effort, and communication. That’s where we see who wants it.”

Off the field, the Tigers have been grinding through a structured summer strength and conditioning program. Lifting sessions, speed and agility drills have helped players improve their physical fitness and mental toughness. Coaches have also placed a strong emphasis on leadership, holding players accountable and encouraging growth in preparation for fall camp.

Belton’s first scrimmage is set for August 21, offering the team a chance to evaluate its progress before the regular season begins. With returning experience, rising talent, and a focused offseason under their belt, the Tigers aim to build on last year’s playoff appearance and push even further in 2025. The wait is almost over and Belton is ready.