Ripon Christian football coach Phil Grams learned early Thursday morning that his team may have an opening in its schedule.

That’s because Le Grand, the Knights’ Aug. 30 opponent, has been hit with a three-game suspension by the Sac-Joaquin Section after players were involved in a fight during a scrimmage against Tranquility.

“We’re looking for a game,” Grams said Thursday night. “It’s not what I want to be doing the Thursday before our first game.”

Le Grand was set to face Livingston on the road today, Ripon Christian next Friday and Orestimba on Sept. 6. The Merced Sun-Star reported that the Le Grand Union High School District plans to appeal the SJS’ ruling.

Last year, the section stiffened its penalties for athletes involved in altercations during games, including scrimmages. The Sun-Star was told by the SJS that the majority of Le Grand’s players, an estimated 25-30, either took part in the melee or left their sideline.

Grams will continue to seek out a new opponent in case the appeal is lost. The game can take place on Ripon Christian’s originally-scheduled bye on Sept. 13, in case Grams is unable to find a replacement for next week. He has already contacted multiple schools.

“It’s kind of impossible, at this point.” Grams said.

Ripon Christian kicks off its season at Summerville. With the big move to the Trans-Valley League, Grams wanted his squad to face a familiar foe to help it prepare for the tough opposition ahead. The Knights and Le Grand have developed a healthy rivalry during their time together in the Southern Athletic League, and they’re 7-7 against each other all-time.

“(Le Grand coach) Aaron (Martinez) and I have become good friends,” Grams said. “It’s tough losing any game, but having to scramble (for a new opponent) and possibly face someone you don’t know in the last minute is a big impact.”