Though the freedom of summer has ended, the excitement and anticipation of a new fall athletic season builds as teams organize their annual sports dinner.

The Eagles’ practice for the new football season is underway, with only three weeks remaining until the opening game at Stone Ridge Christian, Sept. 12.

In preparation, the FC family of alumni, parents, students and boosters will hold the third annual fall sports dinner on Aug. 22 at 6 p.m. Events planners anticipate the large number of guests for the BBQ on the north field.

The sports dinner is meant to fire up the new sports program and encourage teammates as they begin their season. With a new coach and new regime, senior Scott Yantis, running back/middle linebacker, looks forward to the football team’s games.

“Coach (Bonner) Cunnings is pushing us farther than any of us can handle,” Yantis said. “This new offense and defense we are running is going to improve us immensely. We are more of a unit this year; more of a family.”

Besides the new football regime, other teams are preparing for the upcoming season. In a combined effort, the beginning of both the volleyball and girls’ tennis teams’ seasons will be celebrated for the first time this year.

Heather Lichti, ’10, expressed excitement for the volleyball squad’s approaching season.

“I’m really looking forward to our season,” Lichti said. “Our team seems really strong this year, we have an awsome coach, and I think we can win a lot of games this year.”

Not only will the night include the usual sports memorabilia silent auction, but plans also include a carnival theme with an obstacle course, snow cones, bounce house and various games for $0.50.

“It’s a time of celebration of what is going to take place on the athletic field this year,” Chris Schultz, athletic director, said. “And because we receive a donation of food, it’s also a great opportunity for a fundraiser.”

After dinner, each fall sports coach will introduce their team and give a short preview of the upcoming season.

Funds raised from the event benefit each of the three programs equally. Tickets cost $10 each and may be purchased in the Junior High office this week. In addition to friends and families of athletes, anyone can attend the event.

For more information, contact Cynthia Ward at 299-1695 ext. 123.