First-year Mendota coach Jim Eustice said Trojans had a 'very productive' summer. Mendota and teams around the state open official practices Aug. 11.

Dustin Pearson lived life in the fast lane. He never slowed down in life or boat racing. In his Facebook profile, Pearson said, “Once a driver seriously considers safety an issue, you know his fastest days are over.” Sadly, Pearson lost his life racing at Lake DePue.

Joey Puetz has signed on to continue her education at Benedictine University and her soccer career at the NCAA Division III level with the Eagles.

The Seneca football program announced it will play Sangamon Valley in Week 2 this season, filling the void left when Lisle went to a junior varsity schedule only.

Princeton’s Avah Oertel (Heartland Havoc 16U Premier Maraden) and LaSalle-Peru’s Taylor Vescogni (Beverly Bandits 16U Otto) wrapped up their summer travel softball season at the national level.

La Salle-Peru boys soccer coach David Spudic and L-P players Alex Rax, Ismael Mejia and Noah Escobedo went to Spain through Super Clubs National Team and Coaches Voice Tours. They went through training sessions, played games and toured soccer stadiums.

Boat racer Dustin Pearson has died from injuries sustained during an accident at the Lake DePue Pro National Championship boat races on July 25.

Natalie Misener has committed to continue her education at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais and both her track and cross country careers at the NAIA level with the Tigers.

The Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp lost their regular-season finale Thursday, and the defending Prospect League champions did not qualify for the playoffs.