GRAND FORKS — The start of high school football in North Dakota is approaching rapidly. Grand Forks Red River and Grand Forks Central both took the first major step toward Week 1 Thursday morning. ADVERTISEMENTThe Knights and Roughriders each held their first full preseason practice on a breezy, sunny day in Grand Forks. Eric Hylden / Grand Forks HeraldBoth Grand Forks teams made the North Dakota Division AA playoffs in 2025 and lost in the quarterfinals. Eric Hylden / Grand Forks HeraldThe Knights open the season Aug. 28 against Bismarck St. Mary's in a 7 p.m. road game.