PECKVILLE -- A summertime tradition in Lackawanna County has to deal with some real summertime heat.
City and county all-star football players will be taking the field all padded up for the 81st annual Scranton Lions Club Dream Game at John Henzes Veteran Memorial Stadium in Peckville Wednesday evening.
Because of the high temperatures, some extra precautions are being taken, not only for the players, but for everyone attending the game.
On one of the hottest summer days we've seen so far, the idea of putting on football pads and throwing the old pigskin around doesn't seem like the best idea.
But in Lackawanna County, it's a summer tradition.
"It's my last chance to play with my teammates from my school and I got to meet a lot of other players from other schools and I'm just excited to play," said Corey Tomasetti from Mid Valley High School.
In the blazing heat, all-star players from both city and county schools will go head to head for the Dream Game title.
Coaches we spoke to say they prepared their players for the heat on game day.
"A lot of fluids, a lot of fluids," said West Scranton coach Matt Williams. "(We) told them to go home after practice last night, go home and get a lot of rest and get ready for tonight, so we will see."
Players aren't the only ones who have to be careful out in the heat. Fans and staff have to take precautions, too.
Paramedics will be on hand to help anyone in need and the concession stands are open for business.
Parents of players getting the stands ready say they are prepared to beat the heat and enjoy the game.
"It's a very warm night, but we have fans and there is a nice breeze," said Valley View parent Ernie Mengoni.
Those who are going to be working the stands say staying hydrated isn't going to be a problem because they loaded coolers with tons of drinks, including hundreds of bottles of water.
"We did our shopping last night and we have probably about 600 bottles of water plus the same amount of Gatorade so we should be able to keep the fans well hydrated," Mengoni added.
