2016 Countdown to Kickoff

There is much more to high school football season than just football. The marching bands and cheerleaders are a huge part of the experience. Like the players, they spend a lot of time practicing for the upcoming season. Here are some shots of high school football preparations in Lakewood, Ohio during August 2016.

(click photo to enlarge)

  • LHS Cheerleading coach Amy Staib leads the August 10 practice at FFL Stadium.

  • Cheerleaders are athletes, so they ran steps after doing their routines.  

  • Coach Staib is making her list and checking it twice.

  • The LHS Marching Band practicing at Garfield Middle School.

  • This August 10 session focused on marching, not the music.

  • You'll notice they are not carrying instruments.

  • These formations require lots of practice.

  • The instruments sit quietly while the kids focus on drills.

  • LHS Marching Band Director Clinton Steinbrunner

  • It's a hot day....water is important!

  • Middle School Cheerleading Coach Stephanie Ricottone at an LHS Cheer practice. This is her first year with the program. 

  • St. Edward Marching Band rehearsing on August 23. 

  • For this session they are focused on the music, not the marching. They are practicing in groups.

  • Here are the bass drums. 

  • The percussion section.

  • Tubas!

  • New St. Edward Athletic Director Kevin Hickman. He is loving his job, and looks forward to the season. 

  • The friendly FFL Stadium staff is ready to go!

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