West Aurora coach Nate Eimer has heard the criticism of his team’s conference and believes the Upstate Eight gets a bad rap.

Preparing for the 15th season of leading his alma mater, Eimer and the Blackhawks look to keep their modest roll going Monday as they join teams from across the state by opening practice.

It’s one of 10 things to watch in 2025, which figures to be another exciting season in the area.

1. Better than you think?

“I wish people would do their homework,” Eimer said after West Aurora went 9-0 last fall to win the Upstate Eight West title in its return to the conference after five years in the Southwest Prairie West.

With a 31-21 win over Huntley and a 41-6 loss to Maine South in their second straight playoff appearance, the Blackhawks joined Upstate Eight East rival

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