PHOTOS: Crean Lutheran celebrates season with annual blessings and barbecue event

Crean Lutheran spirit squad members compete in one of the games as Saints players look on. (Photos courtesy Crean Lutheran Shutterbugs, Samantha Burgett).

Crean Lutheran’s football program celebrated the start of another football season with the annual blessings and barbecue day at Saints Stadium Saturday.

To see the slide show, click on the first photo:

Crean Lutheran football players head out for the event.

The event was held at the Saints Stadium.

Crean Lutheran Coach Rick Curtis addresses players and fans.

Crean Lutheran spirit squad members compete in one of the games.

Players and spirit squad members have some fun.

Crean Lutheran football players follow the action.

Crean Lutheran spirit squad members from left Buffy Hicks, Evelyn Jin and Elizabeth Schnaider.

Crean Lutheran players (from left) Aidan Smith and Caden Jones celebrate a TD by their spirit squad team.

Crean Lutheran players (from left) Ace Herman, Ethan Haugsland, Erick Cruz,
Nasir Walker and Eden Gamiz.

Spirit squad members entertain the fans.

Crean Lutheran spirit squad members with one of the Saints players.

Crean Lutheran players pictures on buttons.

Crean Lutheran players gather afte the event.

“The day is our kickoff event for the season as we pray for our players, coaches, the spirit squad, and our Crean Lutheran community for the upcoming season,” said Coach Rick Curtis.

There were performances by the spirit squad members, who took part in touch football games that were coached by the Saints players.

The spirit squad members also taught the football players cheers and pyramids. The sophomore football players were first in the competition, Curtis said.

A barbecue hosted by the football booster club and spirit squad members wrapped up the day.

Crean Lutheran hosts Loyola in the season opener Friday at 7 p.m.