Community turns out for annual ‘Meet the Players Night’

The wait is about over. Fall sports begin this week. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready!

This year the night was a celebration of volleyball, cheer, and football. The Tigers are mighty in heart, but smaller in numbers. There are 15 out for volleyball and 20 out for football. But you can be assured that they will give it all they have!

The festivities started in the HS gym with this year’s volleyball team. The girls introduced themselves, then Coach Housman put them through their paces. The girls also had fundraisers, selling Mrs. Fields Cookie Dough and cheesecakes.

The varsity starts their season on Aug. 29 against North Mahaska in an away match.

The scene then shifted to beautiful Tiger Stadium. The cheerleaders were introduced as they will cheer on the Tigers to hopefully many victories. Their hard work and enthusiasm is so appreciated.

The football team was the final group. They were introduced by the voice of Tiger football … Dan Berner. There is a new coaching staff led by Head Coach Darrin Loyd. They had an old but favorite fundraiser. Fans could bid on their favorite parking spot, and if they “won,” that’s their reserved spot for all home games. They were snapped up quickly.

The new fundraiser was titled a Lift-a-thon. You pledge so much for the pounds a player of your choice could lift. The boys had been pumping iron in preparation. They all did a great job, but Nic Loyd lifted an amazing 405 pounds out of a squat position. Wow!

Everyone that came out to cheer on the teams had a great time, and they were very generous assisting with the fundraising. The Tigers first football game is at Easton Valley High School on Aug. 25. Here’s to having great seasons.