Why the 618 area code? The Southern area of Illinois is typically considered the area that includes the River-to-River, the South Seven, and the Black Diamond conferences. Teams in these conferences are the football teams predominantly covered by the regional print, radio, and television media. The most immediate coverage area includes some tremendous powerhouse football traditions, but why stop there? The South Seven conference includes Belleville Altoff and Cahokia. Those are generally considered St. Louis Metro Illinois teams. Illinois high school sports teams in this area could be considered out of Southern Illinois. The functionality of 618football.com will allow grouping by enrollment or the school size, but remember there are some good small school programs in this coverage area as well. Conferences would work, but in some cases would take us too far outside our area. This is why the 618 area code is the separation point and the name of the online community is 618football.com.

Don Laur, a former DuQuoin High School football player and '93 alum, developed 618football.com, out of his love for downstate high school football and as a Master's Project to complete his degree at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. For more information, visit the site and talk to Laur personally. Advertising availability is currently being offered to offset the cost of hosting the site and marketing materials. Laur can also be reached by phone at 618-201-4460 or by email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .