A 5-4 Tri-Valley team went all the way to the quarterfinals in the Class 2A IHSA postseason last year and with experience sprinkled in almost every area of the squad, there's reason to be optimistic for another big year in Downs.

Coach Josh Roop attributed the strength of the Heart of Illinois Conference to their trip to the quarterfinals as a team that was just 5-4 and a 12-seed. He says they return some key players from last year's squad.

The kids returning from last year's team have worked hard. Coach Roop says it could be one of his better defensive teams.

Tri-Valley will host Decatur St. Teresa to start their season. Coach Roop says that will be a great challenge for them right out of the gate and will give them a good idea of where they are at. 

The Vikings get five home games this year, playing three of their final five at home.