Parents were allowed to watch Tuesday’s strength program. (Photos by Anthony Richards)

The transition from summer workouts to fall practice is something that football fans dream of ever since the final snap is taken on the most recent season.

Isabella ended its summer session on a high-note on Tuesday with its “Night of Champions” event.

Parents of both varsity and junior varsity were invited to watch their sons, grandsons and nephews lift various amounts, while standing in roped off areas in the Isabella weight room.

“We will continue to work, but this ends our summer program,” said Isabella head coach Tate Leonard. “We’ve definitely gained over that time, which is what you hope to see. It helps build confidence in themselves.”

Ever since being introduced as athletic director and head football coach on May 18, Leonard has made it a priority to build relationships and that includes allowing parents the assurance that their child’s welfare comes first.

Isabella hosted “Night of Champions” on Tuesday as the Mustangs wrapped up summer workouts.

“We had a parent meeting and it was a good chance for them to catch a glimpse of what the kids have been accomplishing over the summer,” Leonard said.

Players performed an array of weight lifting that included bench press, squat and dead lift.

Once a player reached their goal weight in a certain discipline, they were given the honor of ringing one of two cowbells that sat on the ground in the center of the room.

“It’s always fun to see them reap the rewards from all the work that they’ve continued to put in,” Leonard said.

The competitive nature and team spirit evident throughout the weight lifting session, is something that Leonard will surely look to transfer to the playing field this season.

“We try to make everything we do improve physical and mental toughness, as well as a encourage team bonding exercise,” Leonard said. “Push each other and we all get stronger.”