High school football players embrace first day of fall practice

PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD/WYZZ) — High school football is back.

Wednesday marked the first day of fall practice around the state of Illinois. And players are excited the season is here.

“It’s always exciting, especially having our first game in a couple of weeks,” said Washington senior Wade Leman. “It’s exciting to see all of our work come together.”

The first Friday night of games is Aug. 21 which will be the earliest season opening night in Illinois High School Association history. The IHSA is expanding the playoffs by a week this fall which means the season is starting a week earlier than normal.

“It’s really exciting. I’m glad to be out here with all the guys,” said Tremont senior Lukas Love. “They’re working really hard. We are going through everything we need to, the fundamentals. To make sure during the season we are getting it all done.”

Teams are allowed 20 football practices in the summer. Most coaches use those days but the practices are limited and attendance isn’t mandatory.

But now the season has kicked off, for real.

“It’s always nice to see new faces who weren’t here in the summer,” said Peoria Heights senior Crew Shaver. “They are showing more love for the game, and all that.”

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