McLouth football coach Chris Stewart said his varsity team got back to work right alongside the McLouth Middle School squad, which went through morning conditioning with MHS during two-a-days.

Stewart said he was encouraged to see players finishing conditioning drills and staying positive across the board. That’s what the second-year coach wanted to get out of his players at practices.

“One of the best things is you find out which kids are really committed to playing football and working hard because you can tell when you’re doing the conditioning who is really trying hard and they really want to play football,” Stewart said.

The coach was glad to finally see the players in pads, explaining that allows even more conditioning to take place before McLouth opens its season on Thursday, Sept. 3 in Leavenworth against Immaculata.

“You need to be in shape to go out and play a football game,” he said.

Bulldogs volleyball coach Erika Houk said fitness was a focus at her team’s first week, which featured two-a-days, as well.

“I just like to see them getting quicker, working on their verticals, just getting in shape,” Houk said, adding that the upperclass-heavy squad is coming together nicely.

The McLouth cross country team enjoyed a good start to its season, too, according to coach Jamie Noll.

“It’s actually been a very positive and encouraging first few days of practice,” she said, explaining that there were six girls competing, which meant the Bulldogs had the minimum number to compete as a team at events.

The cross country Bulldogs practiced twice a day the first week as well and Noll was encouraged by what she saw.

“I could not be happier with the results,” she said. “I had excellent attendance and work ethic from everyone.”

McLouth’s Fall Preview night starts at 6 p.m. Friday, when the volleyball team takes the floor. At 7 p.m., cross country and football will be featured at Stan Braksick Sports Complex.