The PIAA opened the gates this week, allowing athletes and teams to practice for the seasons that begin over the next couple weeks. Just a few of the storylines taking shape:

-- Harborcreek Youth Services School launches into its first season as a Class A program. The Spartans practiced Monday for the first time ever.

-- Strong Vincent is banking on a big season from the Patterson twins, which could in fact mean a historic season for the Colonels' girls soccer team.

-- Cathedral Prep has a returning PIAA champion in Gregor Orlando, but he's not the only star-caliber golfer on the Ramblers' roster. Prep practice rounds could be as competitive as any official event this season.

-- Athletes from various sports talk about getting back to practice and playing in this video.

-- District 10 game officials will have more pocket money this year.

The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review points out that the PIAA has other ideas about managing its crew of officials (scroll down).

-- Tickets are on sale for the McDowell-Cathedral Prep football game Aug. 29. It's been dubbed the Courage Bowl.

-- Want to see your favorite D-10 football team's schedule? Want to see every D-10 football schedule for this season? Varsity has 'em. Just click on schedules, select football from the sport window, choose your team and set the dates that interest you.

And, while it's not a fall sport, girls basketball is in the news too. Corry has hired former Villa Maria star Sarah Grab as its coach.

Coming Thursday from the Erie Times-News and Varsity: Cross country and girls volleyball. And check Friday for girls tennis and water polo updates.