MARION — With a new IHSA rule in place allowing up to 11 on 11 summer practices, Carterville and Marion getting together made a ton of sense considering the schools’ proximity, and the teams’ head coaches.

First year Wildcats head coach Jason Dunning and Lions head coach Brett Diel grew up together, and both played for Kerry Martin. Dunning was also an assistant coach for Martin at Marion before taking over when Martin retired after last season.

Martin jumped at the chance when invited to talk to both teams before the practice.

The two teams got plenty of work against each other in helmets and shoulder pads, finishing the practice scrimmaging 11 on 11–something the coaches say is a great tool as the wrap up summer workouts this week.

Next week is the mandatory dead week. Practices will start August 7th, with the season opener set for the 25th (Carterville) and 26th (Marion).