The Illini Prairie Conference will become an 11-team conference starting in the 2021-2022 school year thanks to the approval of adding Paxton-Buckley-Loda to the expansive league.

Monticello Schools Superintendent Dr. Vic Zimmerman is excited about the addition of PBL. He indicates it has been somewhat a while in the making.

The addition of PBL will keep schools from having to find a ninth football game on their schedule as Champaign St. Thomas More is now going to 8-man football. Dr. Zimmerman indicates not only will they help fill out of the football schedules but they will continue to add strength to a strong league.

Monticello is still seeking a game for their week three matchup this coming football season and Dr. Zimmerman notes it is looking like the Sages could be traveling to Door County, Wisconsin.