On Saturday, August 22, Alliance High School held the annual fundraiser called the Big Blue Barbecue, which supports all sports teams. The event has been going on for as long as anyone can remember. Literally.

During this exciting event, our talented athletes and dedicated coaches set up activities for the whole town to enjoy. From the cross-country team’s Gatorade Frisbee to the Alliance Spikers’ cakewalk, there is something for everybody to pass the time. After the festivities, all attendees with a ticket make their way into the PAC where the parents of the athletes have prepared a meal, which included hamburgers with all the regular toppings, beans, chips, and brownies.

This event falls before the first games of the season. Because all the athletes participate, many were available for interviews. When asked what they are most excited about for this upcoming season, they gave a range of answers. For example, Coach Roger Trennepohl, the head boys’ basketball coach, said of the football team, ”You know, I saw how kids worked all summer and I’m excited to see the results they’ll have. They have great team chemistry, which is a good sign this early in the year for both fall and winter sports. There’s positive attitudes and good energy all around, they’ve worked hard all summer and now it’s time to see it all pay off.”

Senior Maggie Otto, a libero for the Alliance Spikers, said of her final season, “I’m looking forward to making the past count and building off of last year. The goal is to go to substate, then state. I’m excited for the younger girls to step up and have a great year.”

Students always look forward to the Big Blue Barbecue, and this year’s was no exception.