It’s been a great fall sports season. The Austin High School soccer team, packed with seniors, had a record year and capped it off with a state tournament berth. The Austin High football team found success in the postseason as well, while Pacelli High School tennis player Lisa Johnen placed fourth at state, and Austin cross country runner Haley Splinter will compete at state Saturday.

It takes a lot to accomplish a successful sports season.

It starts with the student athletes, who must stay dedicated and balance a grueling sports schedule with a full load of classes. It takes coaches, who have the task of taking individual talents and developing those for the betterment of a team. It takes teachers and administrators to encourage and support school athletics, parents to do the same and to do other things such as make sure their students get to practice. And it takes a solid fan base to show these students we’re proud of their efforts.

It’s been a solid start to the school year, and we are proud of all of our local athletes.