The parade to the 2012 high school football championships starts now.

For the next three weeks, from April 30-May 19, teams will be allowed to hold formal workouts (no pads or helmets).

Some teams will take the full time, others only a portion of it. But it is imperative that at least some of the time is used.

Coaches will see how returning players have matured and analyze where they best fit on the field. They will analyze the players’ commitment.

Will they have a player or two emerge from the shadows and show they are capable of becoming impact players?

There will be new coaches at some of the schools. How will the players adapt to new schemes and new ways of doing things?

Passing leagues aren’t far off, followed by summer camps/retreats and then the real thing in full pads.