Each week, Trinity Episcopal head coach football Graham Roberts said he makes a play sheet in preparation for that Friday night’s game.

That was when Roberts said he knew it would be a surreal feeling when he stands on the sideline at 7 p.m. in Clinton, La., as his Saints prepare to play Silliman Institute in their season opener.

“I have to remind myself to enjoy the moment,” Roberts said. “This is all I’ve wanted to do since I was a kid.”

Roberts said it’s been approximately four years since he last coached football, so tonight’s game is not only a detbut, but also a long-awaited return to his passion.

Recent flooding in Louisiana threatened the game, however. Clinton is just approximately a 50-minute drive from Baton Rogue, which is still recovering from a week of damaging downpours.

Roberts said he’s kept daily contact with Silliman’s coaching staff, and he believes football can help the community.

“People rally around these kids, and that’s what I love,” Roberts said. “Communities get involved. … From what I gather (Silliman) has been out in the community trying to keep spirits up.”

When the two teams hit the field, it will be all business. Silliman is the defending MAIS AAA state champion and Trinity is trying to establish legitimacy with its new look.

The Saints got a brief glimpse of Silliman in a scrimmage approximately two weeks ago, and Roberts said the Wildcats are athletic and fundamentally sound.

“I’ll tell you this, after watching film they’re extremely well-coached,” Roberts said. “Friday for us is payday. They have been chomping at the bit.”