While many students are enjoying their last few days of vacation, NorthWood High school volleyball athlete Jana Yoder says, "It's difficult, we're all very sore"
These high school students are gearing up for another season.
At Northwood High School, official practices started Monday.
Athletic Director, Norm Seller says this is a critical time for any team. "The two weeks leading up to our first competition is vastly important and without that they wouldn't be able to compete at such a high level."
Many teams have 2 or more practices a day. It's hard work, but both athletes and coaches see the benefits.
"We spend all day together so it's a good team bonding time," says volleyball player, Hanna Stump.
"This is really the first opportunity the whole team has to get together before the season starts," says volleyball coach, Hilary Rebber.
For a bigger team, football coach Scott Hoover says getting the whole team together earlier is important. "It establishes the leaders we have on the team and leadership is always a key thing to success. This is where we find out who the guys are going to be that step up."
At the Panther's rival school, Jimtown coach, Mike Campbell says the Jimmies are getting ready too, "It's the mentality that summers over, which is always tough."
Practicing from 8:30 to 3:30 everyday, the Jimmies are preparing for Game 1 against the Northwood Panthers.
"Since they beat the tar out of us last year, we have a little incentive these next couple weeks," said Campbell.
It may mark the end of summer, but the start of a season so many of us look forward to!
