PRIEST RIVER — The long wait is finally over, and the fall prep sports season is quickly approaching. 

Nearly all high school teams in Bonner County returned to practice Monday but had to do so indoors due to poor air quality. With the smoke clearing, the teams that needed to were able to return to outdoor practices, including the Priest River and Sandpoint football teams. 

The fall sports season kicks off next week with Sandpoint volleyball starting the festivities with a showdown against Post Falls on Monday, Aug. 17 at 4 p.m. From there, boys and girls soccer across the county will start their seasons before Sandpoint football plays its home opener next Friday against Twin Falls on Aug. 21 at 7 p.m.

Those on the west side of Bonner County will have to endure another week without football as the Spartans open their season Aug. 28 with a road game in Bonners Ferry at 7 p.m.  

More information on specific teams' schedules can be found on their MaxPreps page and in the Daily Bee's upcoming Fall Sports Preview.

    The Priest River High football team practices kickoffs during its Tuesday afternoon practice. The Spartans are looking to repeat as 3A Central Idaho champions this season.