This week, the Herald is running its fall sports previews as the beginning of the school year continues to loom.

But for athletes in football, volleyball, soccer and cross country, the work has already begun. Young men and women have been running, lifting weights and learning the techniques necessary for them to be successful in their chosen sport. They have no doubt come home with plenty of bumps, bruises and possibly, injuries.

And most of them know why they are putting themselves through it — for absolutely no reason other than the love of the game. The community should rally around these young folks now, as most will not to go on to the collegiate level.

The students know that. They don’t look at a sport as a career, but as their chance to entertain a packed gym, crowded bleachers or group of spectators.

Not to mention, paying for tickets or buying passes for the game helps raise some revenue for the school district you attend a game or meet at, and that’s definitely needed now more than ever. Actually, buy some popcorn, candy and a beverage at the game too!

We also want student athletes to remember what comes first — being a student. If you aren’t performing well in the classroom, you may miss an opportunity to perform against your opponents. So take advantage of all that your teachers and school district are offering you. Make sure you work hard in the classroom, not just in practice.

Unfortunately, we also need to give a disclaimer to spectators — if you want to referee or coach a game, sign up to do it! The peanut gallery is no place for you to tell someone else how to do their job. And throwing out swear words left and right, telling the guy next to you how dumb the coach is, or calling a young athlete an inappropriate name does nothing to advance your social status, so don’t do it. We can see a little playful banter back and forth with a rival student section, but let’s keep it clean and fun.

In the end, high school sports in small towns are more than just sports. They are a place where friends and families can go together to have a few hours of fun. They get to cheer, holler, clap and stomp their feet, all while helping out local schools and giving young people more confidence and pride in their community.

So no matter what sport you enjoy the most, make a point of it to get out and root for your team. All of the students playing sports are dedicated and hard-working.

Support them win or lose.