All over the county preparations have been taking place for the beginning of school, but now they are taking a different path in Greenville, driven by enthusiastic students eager to start another year’s football season.

At both Fort Dale Academy and Greenville Academy, football practice officially opened on Monday, and by 5:30 p.m. both schools’ teams were out in pads and shorts working on drills, routines, and plays for the upcoming season’s games.

Also on Academy Drive, the Tornado Twirlers were in the parking lot learning their routines.

Over on Tiger Drive, Head Coach Alvin Briggs and Assistant Coach Ronnie Faulk are repairing and inspecting equipment, in preparation for Greenville's first practice on Monday, Aug. 6.

But more than that — about 250-300 students are starting their practice sessions, ahead of the football players.

This is &uot;camp week&uot; at Greenville High School, and if one looks in the gymnasium, they will find cheerleaders and hopefuls alike practicing routines, including acrobatics and cheers, and learning to paint rally signs.

In the courtyards, the flag squads are learning to synchronize their every movement together, and on the entire northern end of the Greenville High School, the familiar sounds of the Tiger Pride Band can be heard as they exit from the band room.

And all sounded to be in perfect tune, as they worked on the performance list for opening night, when Greenville will host Smith Station in Tiger Stadium, a mere month from now on Aug. 31.

&uot;It is a tradition,&uot; said Cheerleader Sponsor Peggy Horn. &uot;Each year we gather together around this time, and get motivated.&uot;

Horn is supervising a cheerleader camp open to children from four to 14.

&uot;We’re excited to have it getting this close to school and football season,&uot; said Heather Norris, a cheerleader and one of those instructing the younger girls. &uot;This is just a fun week for everyone.&uot;