While most school children are trying to find ways to occupy their time during the summer, athletes at Dawson County High School are busy trying to improve themselves.
Whether it be in an individual setting or as part of a team each player is attempting to get that extra edge during the so-called “offseason.”
The Georgia High School Association governs when teams can “practice” during the summer months. The ruling states that a team can have voluntary workouts from the moment school finishes until football practice begins in the fall.
Most coaches take full advantage of this time to get a feel for their teams.
Basketball coaches hold workouts or go to camp. Both girls’ coach Steve Sweat and boys’ coach Thad Burgess have had a busy summer.
Sweat and the Lady Tigers have been to team camp at Pickens County High School and Tennessee Tech.
The boys’ teams have played all summer until finally shutting down June 24. The Tigers have been to Berry College, Birmingham-Southern and played games at Buford High School amongst other places.
The wrestling team has been holding voluntary workouts in the morning throughout the month of June.
The workouts give Coach Arron Haynes a chance to teach and keep a close eye on the progress of his very talented team.
Football team members have been lifting weights and doing agilities three mornings a week during the month of June.
Head Football Coach Jeff Lee and his troops will travel to Presbyterian College next month for camp. The Tigers are installing a new option offense that should give teams problems.
Coach Kim Fleming and her cheerleaders never stop. The talented group has been preparing all summer as the competitive cheerleading season is just around the corner.
Cross country, soccer and baseball all have workouts and games throughout the “off-months.”
Due to the Georgia High School Association’s mandatory “dead week,” teams will not be allowed to hold any practice through July 4.
It will give time for coaches and players to relax and catch their breath before fall sports really crank up.
It won’t be long before school is back in session. The sound of a whistle, shoes hitting the pavement and cheers give goose bumps, as another high school sports season is approaching fast.