For the Isabella volleyball team, the annual summer camp serves as the official beginning of the season.

“This is like our light switch,” IHS coach Glen Graham said. “It’s time to get serious.”

At the conclusion of the camp, which was held Tuesday and Wednesday at the school, preparations for the upcoming season are now in full swing: mandatory practices begin, school starts on Aug. 15, and the Mustangs’ first match, against Dallas County, is scheduled for Aug. 18.

Six college players—four from Auburn University and two from Jacksonville State University—hosted the camp, which was attended by 36 Isabella players—11 varsity players, 12 junior varsity and 13 junior high.

The camp was organized by Rick Nold, new coach at Auburn. Nold left JSU to take his new job.

Nold stopped by for the beginning of camp Tuesday.

Graham said this is the camp’s seventh year.

Another benefit of the camp is the shared experience, Graham said.

“It’s hot; these are long days,” he said. “These are the kinds of things that builds team bonds.”