The 2023 Football season kicked off Friday night at Ray Stackley Field. The Knights took on the visiting James Island Charter Trojans. Stratford and James Island would battle through a scoreless first quarter. The Trojans got on the board first in the second quarter to take a 7-0 lead. Jachin Davis got Stratford on the board after a 64 yard run, capped by a one yard plunge into the end zone. With James Island leading 10-7, the Knights had the ball in their own end. A high snap would bounce into the end zone and be covered up, resulting in a safety and a 12-7 James Island lead. The ensuing kickoff from the 20 was run back for a touchdown and the Knights quickly found themselves in an 18-7 hole after a missed two point conversion heading to the half. 

In the second half James Island would pick up another score to go up 25-7. Stratford would threaten, but a fumble deep in Trojan territory would end the Knights scoring opportunity. The Knights will have the early bye this week and will look to rebound in two weeks at home against Lexington High School.