Football is officially back in Nixon as the Nixon-Smiley Mustangs began preparations for the 2026 season with an energetic and competitive first week of practice. After months of offseason work, summer strength and conditioning, and preparation, the Mustangs finally returned to the practice field, helmets on, with a new season ahead. The opening week brought strong attendance, plenty of energy, and a palpable sense of excitement throughout the program. “There is a different energy when football season arrives,” Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Paul Kirby said. The 2026 season also offers another opportunity for the Mustangs to build on the foundation laid in recent years.