On August 30, the Edwardsville Tigers started their season with a win against Hazelwood West.

With a well-played game, the Tigers won 46-0. The scrimmage the previous Friday had them ready for a victory.

“I love the atmosphere and getting the chance to represent Edwardsville,” senior tight end Hayden Schmidt said. Many of the football players that play alongside Schmidt feel the same way.

“We work harder and are coached to a higher standard than most teams,” Schmidt said. This mind set should take them far into their season, but every team has things they need to work on.

The defense of the Tigers was strong Friday, as they did not have one touchdown scored against them.  The fact that they have eight of the returning starters from last year is a big contribution.

“Our first game went well but there are still a few things that we need to improve on,” senior running back and defensive back Craig James said. James scored the first touchdown of the game on Friday.

Along with James, touchdowns were scored by Elijah Crockett, D’Anthony Knight, Darius Crochrell and Dan Marinko. The Tigers came to play, as many of the students at EHS came out to support. There were a total of around 1,000 students attending the game.

“I am proud of my team,” junior free safety Tommy Maxwell said. “We all have the same mindset and goals to work towards as the season continues.”

The Tigers will fight their next battle Saturday Aug. 7, at East St. Louis. EHS wishes them luck in the rest of their season. Go Tigers!