While some EHS students spent their summers at home, others spent the summer working hard to prepare for the 2013 fall sports season.  Compared to some other high school sports, the fall sports teams begin working early in the summer.

Senior Alan Bonk runs cross country for EHS and began preparation in June for this year’s season.  “We practiced five days a week starting June 17,” Bonk said.  “My favorite part about cross country is the team dynamic – everybody is looking out for everybody else and always cheering each other on in races,” Bonk said.

According to Bonk, there are no tryouts held for cross country – all are welcome.  “I really like that cross country is in the fall.  The weather is always nice and it helps get me into the swing of things as school is starting,” Bonk said.

Junior Holly Copeland is on the fall dance team, however tryouts were held in May, and practices began in June.  “All through the summer we practice anywhere from two to three days a week, and during the fall we generally practice three days a week,”Copeland said.

In addition to the fall dance team, there is also a winter team.  Dance team members can try out for the fall team, winter team, or both.  The fall team dances throughout the summer up to Halloween.  Some of the events the fall team participates in include football games and other community events.  The winter team dances from around Halloween until March.  In the winter/spring season, the dance team performs at basketball games, and contests in competitions.  “I love having school spirit and being able to go to games…and being around all the girls, it’s so exciting!”  Copeland said.

Senior, Kavan Weiss began training with the football team in June.  “We practice once a day in the summer time,” Weiss said.  “…there are no tryouts [for football].  If you can commit to sowing up on time and working hard day in and day out, you’ve earned a spot on the roster,” Weiss said.

According to Weiss, East St. Louis is going to be the main competition for EHS this year.  “They’ll be looking for payback after last year’s playoff game,” Weiss said.

After a long summer of training, this year’s fall athletic programs should have no trouble with following the tradition of bringing home the hardware for EHS.