The pools, fields, tracks and courses surrounding Oakdale High are awash with action these days as dedicated athletes put forth the work to provide stellar competition in the always tough Valley Oak League in the prep season that looms just around the corner.

With many Oakdale High programs a perennial threat to snare postseason wins, the early grind of practices and games prove to be key factors in production later in the season. The Oakdale Leader salutes Fall Athletes for their tireless effort to prepare for the regular season, and offers up a general, all-encompassing Athlete of the Week nod for the Mustangs as they endure the heat and physicality of practices this month.