DENVER — The 4A boys basketball Great 8 spanned the full day Saturday at the Denver Coliseum. Go to:
Arapahoe and Wheat Ridge, last season’s champions, head the respective preseason boys lacrosse rankings.
The Warriors, No. 1 in 5A, received 10 of the 15 first-place votes in the CHSAANow.com poll, but edged No. 2 Cherry Creek by just one overall point. Arapahoe, a two-time defending champion, does have to replace its four leading scorers who graduated after last season, as well as break in a new goalie.
Cherry Creek, meanwhile, returns its top three scorers from last year’s runner-up squad, including sophomore Henry Adams (19 goals, 16 assists a year ago). Starting goalie Addison Christensen is also back.
The Bruins are followed by No. 3 Regis Jesuit, No. 4 Kent Denver and No. 5 Mullen.
Wheat Ridge won last season’s inaugural 4A title last year, and now leads the preseason poll this year. Top scorer John Roach is back, as is star goalie Jensen Makarov.
Air Academy, runner-up to Wheat Ridge last season, is No. 2. Cheyenne Mountain is third, and is followed by Thompson Valley and Valor Christian.
Complete rankings for both classes are below.
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Voted upon by coaches and media members around the state. These rankings have no bearing on postseason seeding.
Coaches and media members looking to vote should email rcasey@chsaa.org.
| Class 5A | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RK | TEAM | W-L | PTS | PVS | LW |
| 1 | Arapahoe (10) | 0-0 | 134 | – | 0-0 |
| 2 | Cherry Creek (1) | 0-0 | 133 | – | 0-0 |
| 3 | Regis Jesuit (3) | 0-0 | 110 | – | 0-0 |
| 4 | Kent Denver | 0-0 | 101 | – | 0-0 |
| 5 | Mullen | 0-0 | 69 | – | 0-0 |
| 6 | Columbine | 0-0 | 63 | – | 0-0 |
| 7 | Colorado Academy | 0-0 | 61 | – | 0-0 |
| 8 | Mountain Vista (1) | 0-0 | 57 | – | 0-0 |
| 9 | Rock Canyon | 0-0 | 28 | – | 0-0 |
| 10 | Chaparral | 0-0 | 25 | – | 0-0 |
| Others receiving votes: | |||||
| Fort Collins 14, Heritage 9, Monarch 6, Grandview 5, Smoky Hill 5, Chatfield 3, Denver East 2, Castle View 1. | |||||
| Class 4A | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RK | TEAM | W-L | PTS | PVS | LW |
| 1 | Wheat Ridge (7) | 0-0 | 70 | – | 0-0 |
| 2 | Air Academy | 0-0 | 56 | – | 0-0 |
| 3 | Cheyenne Mountain | 0-0 | 51 | – | 0-0 |
| 4 | Thompson Valley | 0-0 | 45 | – | 0-0 |
| 5 | Valor Christian | 0-0 | 41 | – | 0-0 |
| 6 | Steamboat Springs | 0-0 | 33 | – | 0-0 |
| 7 | Aspen | 0-0 | 29 | – | 0-0 |
| 8 | Battle Mountain | 0-0 | 23 | – | 0-0 |
| 9 | Ponderosa | 0-0 | 19 | – | 0-0 |
| 10 | Alexander Dawson | 0-0 | 14 | – | 0-0 |
| Others receiving votes: | |||||
| St. Mary’s 2, Windsor 2. | |||||
Our boys lacrosse preview is a compilation of information from coaches, administrators and MaxPreps statistics.
Across the state of Colorado, 67 schools with approximately 3,000 student-athletes compete in two classifications of boys lacrosse.
Class 5A is made up of 36 schools with an enrollment of more than 1,410 students. There are 31 4A schools with enrollments below 1,410.
Below is comprehensive preview of each team.
We have strived to receive, compile and publish all of the names and information as correctly as possible. We apologize in advance for any misspelled names, statistical errors or mistakes that appear in this preview. Please send corrections to rcasey@chsaa.org.
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Coach: Collin Knowles
2013 record: 8-7
Returning lettermen: 17
Leading seniors: Brandon Jacobs, M; Ian Oden, A; Vito Lecesse, D; Zach Brode, M; Ben Jacobson, LSM;
Top juniors: Jack Heyman, A;
Sophomores to watch: Connor Fox, A; Cleveland McCarty, D; Jonny Colletta, G (Freshman)
2014 outlook: Five of top six scorers return in 2014 and experienced on defense. Ian Oden 39/34 and Brandon Jacobs 36/7 return with more scoring expected from Zach Brode (senior, midfield) and Connor Fox (sophomore, attack). Freshman Jonny Colletta will compete with senior Reed Morrison for the starting goalie position. Vito Lecesse and Ben Jacobson bring senior leadership to a strong veteran defense.
Coach: Kevin O’Brien
2013 record: 6-8
Returning lettermen: 18
Leading seniors: Eric Potts, M; Ross Steward, M; Josh Heidrick, LSM;
Top juniors: Michael Callahan-Harris, M; Connor Aycock, M; Jeremy Thompson, M; Jared Kelleher, M; Jacob Larsen, A; Lucas Gunkel, A; Dylan Thompson, D; Tanner Lewis, Defense
Sophomores to watch: Nick Lovell, A; Jordan Alexander, G;
2013 highlight: Chatfield had a strong finish to its 2013 season and played some eventual playoff teams pretty tough in its last couple games. Although the Chargers missed the playoffs, they still look back at 2013 as a successful campaign.
2014 outlook: Chatfield is looking forward to a strong 2014 season. The team has a lot of potential as its returns 18 varsity players. “Looking forward to see how our team fares against some very strong programs we have on our schedule,” O’Brien said.
Coach: Matt Plitnick
2013 record: 12-3
Returning lettermen: 14
Leading seniors: Anthony Sanfilippo, A; Larry Munson, M; Tyler Goodwin, M;
Top juniors: Landon Kramer, M; Lucas Leyba, LSM; Dylan Compton, FOGO; Ian Lewis, D;
Sophomores to watch: Justin Gonzales, M; Nick Stasch, A;
2013 highlight: Columbine was able to produce eight all-state players, including two All-Americans. Winning back-to-back league and Littleton Cup championships was the highlight of 2013 for Columbine.
2014 outlook: Youth is the word for 2014. Many talented, yet unproven players dot the roster. The schedule remains challenging with key out of state games against Mercer Island (Wash.), Bainbridge Island (Wash.) and Lincoln (Ore.). If youth can gain experience, the Rebels look for a three-peat in the Jeffco League.
Coach: Mike Thumim
2013 record: 8-7
Returning lettermen: 24
Leading seniors: Davis Sebald, M; Tyson Butler, M; Ryan Schneider, M; Kaden Hummel, M;
Top juniors: Alden Erickson, D; Sean Arfsten, D; Joe Brown, M/FO, Taylor Davis, A; Duncan Okubo, A; Tanner Pauley, G;
Sophomores to watch: Cody Hill, A; Matt Moscati, LSM;
2013 highlight: “Last year our first as a varsity and missed the playoffs by one game,” Thumim said. “We had two overtime losses.”
2014 outlook: “We are returning all 10 starters from last year and are a junior-class heavy team,” Thumim said. “We expect to compete for a playoff spot this year and hope to surprise many teams as we will be overlooked being so new. But, we have some kids getting recruited and have a lot of experience.”
Coach: Michael Flood
2013 record: 5-10
Returning lettermen: 20
Leading seniors: Sean LaVine, D; Kipp Planchard, D; Josh Drake, D; Bobby Johnson, A; Blake Josenhans, M;¸ Matt Wantz, M;¸ Avi Becker, M;
Top juniors: Luke Miller, D; Andrew Yi, M; Steele Mercer, M; Connor May/Attack
Sophomores to watch: Quinn Carrigan, A; Rylan Squirrell, M; Daniel Rahn, M;
2013 highlight: “In 2013 we opened the season with an overtime victory against Highlands Ranch,” Flood said. “We followed up that game with an overtime win against Palmer. Both exciting finishes happened on our home turf in front of our fans.”
2014 outlook: “We have a seasoned group of seniors who are ready to take care of business this coming season,” Flood said. “Our guys have put in more work this offseason than ever before. With most of the team coming back, we expect to have a strong presence in our league and in the state.”
Coach: David Shigekane
2013 record: 11-4
Returning lettermen: 12
Leading seniors: Bradley Sobotka, A; Ben Braley, D; Robin Kelley, D; Cole Purdy, D; Baily Hoffman, M; Carter Nuttall, M; Tate Stuart, M; David Lund, A
Top juniors: Kevin Schultz, M; Cam Castle, G; Trey Jouard, M; Trevor DeBaere, A; Joe Cribari, M
Sophomores to watch: David Kravec, D; Alex Winkler, G; Ryan Hsin, M
2013 highlight: “We started off with a four-day spring break trip, where we played three games and had three practices. We went 1-2 and the team was worn out and not satisfied,” Shigekane said. “This helped us prepare for the rest of the season. With all the weather, we had to finish the season with playing six games in nine days, against very tough competition. The players rose to the occasion and played their best lacrosse, winning all six games and received a No. 4 (seed) in the playoffs.”
2014 outlook: “We graduated about 15 seniors and lettermen,” Shigekane said. “We are a young team. I am excited for the players to learn about leadership, community and hard work. With these behaviors in place this team will experience a great season and life-long friendships.”
Coach: Eric Seelbach
2013 record: 6-8
Returning lettermen: 14
Leading seniors: Adam Zimmerman, A; John Stauffer, D;
Top juniors: Will Swartz, A; Jared Taha, M; Braden Birney, M/FO, Sam Copper, D
2013 highlight: The 2013 season was Lakewood’s very first season of competition. The team worked hard to gel all season, and began to make great strides by the end of the competition to enter 2014 on a number of high notes. The team found an identity on offense, and will look to pick up momentum in other areas of the team from that success.
2014 outlook: The Lakewood Tigers return a solid core of players at every position for the 2014 season. The team’s top three scorers — Adam Zimmerman, Will Swartz, and Braden Birney — are all primed for important responsibilities in leadership on the offensive side of the ball, while defensive leadership will come from John Stauffer and Sam Copper. Looking to improve on its record from the 2013 season, the Tigers have set their sights on earning their first-ever playoff berth in 2014.
Coach: David Auday
2013 record: 10-5
Returning lettermen: 13
Leading seniors: Will Simonson, A; Troy Naudain, A; Mark Allen, D
Top juniors: Connor Johnson, G; Max Wiesner, M; Phil Bubernek, M
Sophomores to watch: Andrew Zweirs, M; Chad Kreuzer, M
2013 highlight: “We completed our ninth year in a row of being a playoff team,” Auday said.
2014 outlook: “We have one of the best goalies in the state in Connor Johnson and a good, D;” Auday said. “We have some talented short sticks in Max Wiesner, Phil Bubernek, Chad Kreuzer and Andrew Zweirs.”
Coach: Dave Pucul
2013 record: 2-14
Returning lettermen: 9
Leading seniors: Austin Barnhill, LSM; Bryce Robinson, G; Cory Paterson, M
Top juniors: Caleb Strand, M; Adrian Aragon, A; Christian Jacoby, D
Sophomores to watch: Jake Zaroff, G; Josh Fielder, M
2014 outlook:
It’s hard to tell what this season may hold for the Thunderhawks. “This is my first season coaching at PVHS, and what I see is a group of young men working hard in the offseason, playing box lacrosse, and practicing on their own time,” Pucul said. “Because there is not an established feeder system in the area, most players started in the ninth grade, but what they lack in experience, they are willing to make up for in hard work. This year we will focus on building a team, constructing a community, and starting traditions within the Thunderhawk program.”
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Coach: Randy Colley
2013 record: 13-4
Returning lettermen: 14
Leading seniors: Sam Sweeney, LSM; Jack Thomas, A; Trevor Pratt, D; Jack Griswold, M; Matt Cole, D;
Top juniors: Tyler Kelly, M; Zander Naes, G;
Sophomores to watch: Winston Palmeri, A; Mac Mease, A;, M; TK Kidder, D; Carson Pratt, LSM
Coach: Sean McCarthy
2013 record: 7-9
Returning lettermen: 15
Leading seniors: Jake Sawyer, D; Griffin Heller, A; Jack Matthews, A; Kellen Self, A; Joey Cowperthwaite, G;
Top juniors: Sam Bierman, M; Sid Torrigino, A; Connor Lewis, A; Taylor Bombadiere, LSM
Sophomores to watch: Max Bragdon, M
2013 highlight: The Angels did well enough to earn the final seed in the state 5A playoffs. They faced the No. 1 seed, Cherry Creek, in the first round. The team lost but not without giving the top ranked team a tight 9-4 battle. East had strong wins against Heritage and Grandview that certainly helped push a bid for the playoffs.
2014 outlook: With 14 returning lettermen and a core senior class, 2014 looks bright for the Angels. The team will look to make a deeper push into the state playoffs backed with an experienced back line. Jack Sawyer, a returning first-team all-stater, will anchor the defense alongside returning starters, Connor Lewis and senior goaltender Joey Cowperthwaite. The team will also look to seniors for offensive production in left-handed attackman, Griffin Heller and linemate Jack Matthews. Ball possession will be a huge factor, as the Angels will have high expectations for junior Sam Bierman to hold down the face-off and to contribute on offense.
Coach: Ben Mack
2013 record: 1-13
Returning lettermen: 9
Leading seniors: Kyler Grunewald, M; Kolby Spring, A; Christian Davis, M; Dylan Conley, M; Will Goos, M
Top juniors: La’Brian Miller, D; Christian Fritz, M
Sophomores to watch: Bryce Grunewald, G/M
2014 outlook: A strong senior class will lead the Gateway Olympian’s lacrosse team in 2014. This leadership includes returning seven starters from the previous year, and a solid core of young players to develop over the course of the season. The Olympians will be challenged early and often, playing quality opponents from Denver Metro area.
Coach: Matt Miller
2013 record: 0-14
Coach: Jon Cohen
2013 record: 7-8
Returning lettermen: 16
Leading seniors: TJ Florence, M; Keegan Hoefer, M; Mitch Oldenburg, G; James Marion, DM; Clay Solich, M
Sophomores to watch: Keaton Komatz, M
2014 outlook: Jon Cohen starts his first season as head coach of the Heritage Eagles. The team is loaded with senior talent, 19 seniors are on the varsity roster. The Eagles return 80 percent of their scoring and their starting goalie for the 2014 season.
Coach: Ben Brenneman
2013 record: 10-5
Returning lettermen: 22
Leading seniors: Joey Matarazzo, M; Brooks Benson, M; Trevon Hamlet, FO/M
Matt Pinto, D/LSM; Marcus Stears, G
Top juniors: Jaden Franklin, A; Zander Ellis, A; Joe Rassenfoss, M; Gunnar Sveen, D; Jack Ammons, D
Sophomores to watch: James Hueston, M/A
2013 highlight: “A win at home against Nationally Ranked Torrey Pines (Calif.) was a great day,” Brenneman said. “A very close game with an awesome crowd in attendance for the presentation of the Kent Denver Lacrosse Alumni Award, presented to former head coach Tom Graesser.”
2014 outlook: “Every year you lose some key players to graduation,” Brenneman said, “but we are fortunate to return a lot of 2013’s starting players who are current seniors and juniors. We are excited to see which guys among them will step up as leaders, and which of the young athletes will break into the mix. The 2014 Colorado high school lacrosse landscape is sure to be one of the deepest and most competitive in recent years.”
Coach: Brad Todd
2013 record: 4-11
Returning lettermen: 18
Leading seniors: Andrew Krom, M; Josh Barrow, M; Riley Harden, A; Aaron Mountfort, G; Thatcher Bouck, D; Sean Malloy, D
Top juniors: Joe Timm, A; Ben Schreiber, D
Sophomores to watch: Donovan Crabtree, A; Nathan Gothard, M; Will Gast, D
2013 highlight: “Last season was a tough one for our program, finishing 4-11 after qualifying for the state tournament the past three years,” Todd said. “Although there were not a lot of highlights in the win/loss column, we saw high potential in the growth and improvement of our JV team and underclassmen on the varsity team. We had a lot of new faces that were not experienced enough to take on the roles we asked them to. We saw a lot of improvement the second half of the season and we are looking take that momentum into 2014.”
2014 outlook: This season, Littleton looks to turn it around with a good crop of returning varsity players and get back into the state tournament. With seven returning starters and the entire coaching staff back, we are looking to make big improvements on the field this season. Littleton is led by a strong senior class and an experienced attack unit made up of seniors Riley Harden and Charlie Hindman, junior Joe Timm and sophomore Donovan Crabtree. The midfield is led by Andrew Krom and Josh Barrow and will look to Mac Baker, Nathan Gothard and Evan Witt to take on bigger roles this season.
Junior Ben Schreiber leads a senior-heavy defensive unit along with Sean Malloy, Andy Wheeler, Michael Norwood and Thatcher Bouck. They’ll play in front of senior keeper Aaron Mountfort who split time in goal last year. “Experience is the biggest gain we made last year, and this group is ready to compete in the tough South Suburban conference,” Todd said.
Coach: Davin Young
2013 record: 5-10
Leading returning goal scorer: R. Zhu (12)
Leading returning assists: J. Conley (13)
Leading returning points scorer: J. Conley (25)
Leading returning ground balls: J. Hiner (34)
Coach: Jim Soran
2013 record: 12-6
Returning lettermen: 21
Leading seniors: Liam McHugh, LSM/D; Will Denes, LSM/D; Aaron Horvat, M
Top juniors: Ben Bechter, A; Truett Davis, A; Matt Soran, A; Chase Konkel, M; Chet Dunstan, M; Mike Wegner, D; Conor Shea, D; Brett Quartuccio, G; Ben Adams, G; Simon Quan, M
Sophomores to watch: Alec Barnes, M; Cole Boland, M
2013 highlight: “Young. Bought into concept to believe they could do something special,” Soran said. “Big win in quarters. Tough loss in semis.”
2014 outlook: “They will have to earn everything they get,” Soran said
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Coach: Jose Trujillo
2013 record: 8-8
Leading returning goal scorer: M. Tuttle (51)
Leading returning assists: M. Madril (17)
Leading returning points scorer: M. Tuttle (61)
Leading returning ground balls: M. Tuttle (90)
Leading returning goalie: R. Johnson (.508 save percentage)
Coach: Mike Magrin
2013 record: 11-4
Returning lettermen: 8
Leading seniors: Colton McCaffrey, A; Keenan Foshe, M; Wyatt Jones, A; Alex Spindler, M;
Top juniors: Mitch Ross, M; Jake Coleman, A;
Sophomores to watch: Jared Franklin, D
2013 highlight: Great season for the Wolverines making it to the state playoffs in 2013.
2014 outlook: Chaparral returns the entire starting offense from last year. The Wolverine defense will be anchored by a tremendous freshman goalie Erik Peters. Look for the Wolverines to go deep into playoff this season.
Coach: Scott Evans
2013 record: 7-8
Returning lettermen: 15
Leading seniors: Stephen Wade, M; Matthew Schneider, D; Josh “Slushi” Miller, A
Top juniors: Tanya White, A
Sophomores to watch: Youn Son, A
2013 highlight: The 2013 team has its best record in four years.
2014 outlook: DCHS welcomes the legendary Colorado lacrosse personality Scott Evans as the new coach and program director. Douglas County returns 14 quality seniors, many of whom will start opening day. They will be led by a stout defense and all-conference candidate Matt Schneider. The Huskies are intent on moving up to be a contender in the increasingly stout Douglas County conference.
Coach: Matthew Bocklet
2013 record: 9-7
Returning lettermen: 18
Leading seniors: Evan Wong, A; Joe Quatrochi, FO/M; Max Abbott, A; Jake Pawley, M; Jordan Jones, D; Austin Davis, D; Danny Buckley, M;
Top juniors: Bay Sherbert, A/M; Evan Baker, A; Russell Riley, G; Drew Larsen, M;
Sophomores to watch: Kyle Sterner, M; Alec Bright, D
2013 highlight: Highlands Ranch was playing against Smoky Hill late in March. “We were down 7-3 with four minutes left in the game,” Bocklet said. “We finished the game on a 5-0 run and won 8-7 in regulation. Was by far our best comeback of the season and the best four minutes of lacrosse we played all season.”
2014 outlook: “We lost some very talented seniors to graduation, but this year we have a very strong senior class that I expect to lead us to another successful season,” Bocklet said. “The team has worked harder in the offseason and we hope that translates to a couple more wins this spring.”
Coach: Dorian Cagaanan
2013 record: 5-9
Leading returning goal scorer: N. Grim (20)
Leading returning assists: N. Grim (10)
Leading returning points scorer: N. Grim (30)
Leading returning ground balls: C. Keicher (37)
Coach: Alan Smith
2013 record: 5-9
Leading returning goal scorer: G. Helwig (24)
Leading returning assists: G. Helwig (22)
Leading returning points scorer: G. Helwig (46)
Leading returning ground balls: G. Helwig (78)
Leading returning goalie: G. Osterlund (.650 save percentage)
Coach: Jake Herman
2013 record: 9-6
Returning lettermen: 20
Leading seniors: Davis Barker, M/A; Alec Womack, A; Shane Mckenna, A
Top juniors: Christian Barker, M/A; Sam Ell, D; Bryan Hancock, M; Chase Babcock, D; Kiel Brennan, M; Kyle Pless, D/LSM; Christian Brady, DM
Sophomores to watch: Paxton Boyer, G; Noah Hirshorn, M; Coby Petau, M; Jake Harvey, M; Dimitri Kambeitz, LSM
2013 highlight: The 2013 season for Mountain Vista included many tough fought games to Douglas County opponents. The Golden Eagles also fought tooth and nail against some of the state’s finest. The team came together for big wins against Chaparral and Castle View. Going into the state tournament, Mountain Vista ran into the eventual state champion, Arapahoe, and played a tough game.
2014 outlook: The 2014 season for Mountain is looking very bright. The team is setting lofty goals this year due to a shared belief that this team is built from the bottom up to succeed. “Vista lacrosse has reinvented ourselves in our offseason training that is laying the ground work for the spring season,” Herman said. “Vista is no longer under the radar and is working towards achieving success. Our fast-paced offense and pressure defense looks to compete with everyone at the highest level. Vista has a very tough schedule this year which will help us to become battle tested.”
Coach: Sequoia Bowan
2013 record: 6-9
Returning lettermen: 17
Leading seniors: Sam Horning, M; DJ Stane, A
Top juniors: Chip Cipoletti, M; Kyle Soens, D;
Sophomores to watch: Noah Smith, M; Caleb Espinoza, G
2014 outlook: An extremely young team hoping to develop and improve throughout the course of the season.
Coach: Louis Goldin
2013 record: 11-5
Returning lettermen: 16
Leading seniors: Conrad Coppage, A; Jeff Howard, A; Hanson Finley, M; Chris Pietra, M; Zack Anderson, D; Noah Parker, G
Top juniors: Colton Jackson, M; Michael Phelps, D
Sophomores to watch: Ian Hicks, LSM
2013 Highlight: Having Wilkins Dismuke on the team (two-time player of the year)
2014 outlook: “Even though we have many returning players, we are a very different team this year,” Goldin said. “This year, we are much more focused on the team aspect and plan on having this be our strength.”
Coach: Reg Weber
2013 record: 5-10
Returning lettermen: 10
Leading seniors: Blake Sandman, D; Leif Hovda, M; Connor Koslosky, A; Jimmy Fair, M
Top juniors: Dakota Ball, G; Jack Matchinsky, D; Braidon McLean, A; Cole Ogrodnick, M;
Sophomores to watch: Lucas Thornton, A; Freshman-Dylan Sandman, A;
2013 highlight: The team had significant potential but lost numerous games by one goal. “Lost our starting goalie early in the season,” Weber said.
2014 outlook: Currently have two players who received letters of intent from Division I schools. Very good combination of returning senior and junior lettermen. Good team work ethic. Expectations are high for a good season.
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Coach: Guy Cerasoli
2013 record: 17-3
Leading returning goal scorer: B. Wilson (20)
Leading returning assists: Z. Runberg (9)
Leading returning points scorer: Z. Runberg (28)
Leading returning ground balls: Z. Runberg (23)
Coach: Rowan Allen
2013 record: 4-10
Coach: Bryan Perry
2013 record: 13-6
Returning lettermen: 28
Leading seniors: Ryan Arthur, A; Matt Goettelman, D; Addison Christensen, G; Zach Yoshiaka, LSM
Top juniors: Dylan Johnson, D; Quinten Sanders, D; Jack Savage, A
Sophomores to watch: Henry Adams, A; Ben Kingdom, D
2014 outlook: Looking forward to improving throughout the season.
Coach: Brian Vickery
2013 record: 7-7
Leading returning goal scorer: M. Jung (21)
Leading returning assists: I. Towner (19)
Leading returning points scorer: I. Towner (32)
Leading returning ground balls: P. Schwinger (46)
Leading returning goalie: E. Shaw (.543 save percentage)
Coach: Nate Mueller
2013 record: 4-9
Returning lettermen: 20
Leading seniors: Jackson Crawford, M; Keegan Martin, M; Trent Richardson, M; Quinn Moore, A; Tyler Prins, A; Troy Humphrey, D; Alex Trujillo, D; Max Bauer, LSM;
Top juniors: Brett Putzstuck, M; Jack Devereaux, M;
Sophomores to watch: Josh Melton, A; Ryland Clay, M; Matt Sciba, M; Garrett Goulding, M; Spencer Chute, M; Keaton Carney/Defense
2013 highlight: Coming out of a 2-13 season, and the third new coaching staff in three years, it was a tough transition year for the program. The team responded by increasing offensive production and doubling their wins from the previous year.
2014 outlook: Following a tough rebuilding year, and with 20 returning varsity players, led by seniors Alex Trujillo and Troy Humphries at defense; Keegan Martin, Trent Richardson, Matt Brazell and Jackson Crawford at midfield; and Quinn Moore and Tyler Prins at attack; Grandview is determined to make a statement in 2014.
Coach: Mitch Brin
2013 record: 13-6
Leading returning goal scorer: B. Brehm (25)
Leading returning assists: N. Philips (7)
Leading returning points scorer: B. Brehm (31)
Leading returning ground balls: B. Brehm (45)
Coach: Danny Barocas
2013 record: 6-8
Returning lettermen: 9
Leading seniors: Patrick Au, D
Top juniors: Kadin Rivas, A/M; Richard Au, G
Sophomores to watch: D’Angelo Rivas, A
2014 outlook: “With only two seniors in the program, we are looking towards our youth to really drive us home this year,” Barocas said. “We have a solid core of returning players who, despite their youth, bring a lot of varsity game experience. We’ve grown and matured since last year, and begun to develop what it means to play team lacrosse. On the offensive end, we will look toward the brothers Kadin and D’Angelo Rivas to anchor as scoring threats, while on the defensive end Patrick Au will lead our defensive unit, keeping the ball away from his brother and goalie Richard Au.”
Coach: Preston Davis
2013 record: 11-4
Returning lettermen: 8
Leading seniors: Blake Foerster, A; Davis Smestad, M; Jordan Ruhl, G; Beau Lansdown, A; Tyler Glenn, M;field
Top juniors: Austin Peper , D; Jackson Ross, A; Peter Douglas, D; Ben Champion, M; Giordan Thompson, M;field
2013 highlight: The Smoky lacrosse program finished the season in the top 10 for the first time in school history. The program had four representatives on the all-state team and Blake Foerster was the leading goal scorer in the state.
2014 outlook: Smoky Hill continues to work hard and develop as a team. There will be some new faces wearing the Buffaloes uniform this season, however the coaches feel confident that the new dynamic will continue to provide team success.
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Coach: Mike Goerne
2013 record: 12-4
Returning lettermen: 17
Leading seniors: Matt Sovich, M; Donte Lizotte, Defense
Top juniors: Harry Ferguson, A; Tyler Tick, A; Ryan Fitzgerald, A; John Heaphey, M; Conner Peirce, D; Nicky Cottrell, D; Art Kelso, G;
Sophomores to watch: Zac Storm, D; Jonathan Wells, M;
2013 highlight: Aspen skiers had a successful 2013 season advancing to the playoffs for the team’s first playoff appearance making it to the quarterfinals. It was a young team with over half the roster being sophomores. The team was lead by a small group of dedicated and athletic seniors that had a strong presence for the midfield and defense.
2014 outlook: Preparing for the season and with many returning players, the team is focused on getting right back to the team chemistry that was built during the 2013 season. Offensively, all three attack from 2013 are returning as juniors with a strong and fast group of midfielders who are eager to push the transition with the changes to the substitution rules. Defensively, two junior goalies — Art Kelso and Jordan Cottrell — will continue battling and pushing each other for time in the net while the defense works to fill open positions from graduated seniors. The team has a tougher schedule with more non-conference game in the anticipation of being a strong team than 2013 when the playoffs begin.
Coach: Jerry Nichols
2013 record: 12-4
Leading returning goal scorer: T. Clark (19)
Leading returning assists: C. Davis (25)
Leading returning points scorer: C. Davis (35)
Leading returning ground balls: Q. Davis (50)
Leading returning goalie: Z. Trombetta (.591 save percentage)
Coach: John Robinette
2013 record: 7-7
Returning lettermen: 17
Leading seniors: Jared Cook, A; Wesley Komick, A; Walker Brown, G; Brad Kulovitz, D; Westly Moore, D; Duncan Whitley, M; Jacob Boyle, M
Top juniors: Tevor Gabbard, M; Liam Millar, A; Hunter Hall, M; Jackson Berridge, D; Enver Djuneshbekov, M; Patrick Cunnion, M
Sophomores to watch: Hank Muir, D; Kyle Robinette (freshman), A; Conner Coleman (freshman), D; Dillon Coleman (freshman), D
2013 highlight: Started the season 0-6 against the top teams in the Mountain conference. Finished 7-1 in the remaining 8 games.
2014 outlook: With a strong core of senior players returning, and a new crop of up and coming freshman, sophomores and juniors, the Demons are poised for a breakout season. Both starting midfield and attack units will be back, as well as starting goalie and two of the three starting defensemen.
Coach: Ted Boddy
2013 record: 6-9
Returning lettermen: 12
Leading seniors: Johnny Bailey, A/M; Nick Briggs, A;
Top juniors: Riley Nestlerode, D;, Joe Sheldon, G; Quinn McCord, M; Mike Ramunno, M; Ryan Monica, M
Sophomores to watch: Jared Salaz, A;
2013 highlight: 2013 marked the first time Eagle Valley made the playoffs in its five year history. “We also saw the school goals record fall; broken by three players Sam Boyd (30), Nick Briggs (30), and Johnny Bailey (25),” Boddy said. “The points record fell to Johnny Bailey with 60 points.” The team grew quite a bit over the course of the year and gave a great effort against eventual 4A champion Wheat Ridge.
2014 outlook: Coming into 2014, the Devils will be focused on their first .500 record and improving their seeding in the 4A playoffs. Anchored by the school record holder in points (J. Bailey) and goals (N. Briggs) their attack looks to lead the way along with Noah Ejnes and sophomore Jared Salaz. The defense will be anchored by Joe Sheldon in net, taking over after two years as the varsity backup, and junior defenseman Riley Nestlerode. This season looks to be a strong one for a growing program with over 50 players in it.
Coach: Mark Young
2013 record: 6-9
Leading returning goal scorer: D. Weihl (13)
Leading returning assists: J. Lynch (10)
Leading returning points scorer: T. Peterson (18)
Leading returning ground balls: J. Lynch (53)
Leading returning goalie: C. Brown (.457 percentage)
Coach: Rick Stevens
2013 record: 2-12
Returning lettermen: 14
Leading seniors: Karros Huang, D; Scott Gilmore, G; Nikko Medina, M;
2013 highlight: “We won our last couple of games,” Stevens said.
2014 outlook: ” This year we will be doing a team community project,” Stevens said. “We are bringing Joe Ehrmann, author of ‘Inside Out Coaching’ to Glenwood Springs to deliver a keynote address and conduct a coach’s clinic. Joe is well known around the country and it will be a privilege to host him. He will be here May 23-24.”
Coach: James States
2013 record: 7-7
Leading returning goal scorer: M. Combs (10)
Leading returning assists: Stephen Foster (16)
Leading returning points scorer: Stephen Foster (21)
Leading returning ground balls: N. Gookin (45)
Coach: Bob Hiester
2013 record: 14-4
Coach: Karl Barth
2013 record: 8-8
Returning lettermen: 8
Leading seniors: Josh Braun, LSM;
Top juniors: Jorden Nelson, G; Jack Bilenduke, A; Jesse Reller, D; Sam Herwig, D; Mike Farley, LSM
Sophomores to watch: Wil Laidlaw, M
Coach: Jon Martin
2013 record: 5-9
Returning lettermen: 17
Leading seniors: Tristan Purdy, LSM; Irah Wooten, A; Conner Lawson-Huskey, M; Nico Shapiro, M; Matt Sandoval, M; Oscar Lopez, M; Trey Huska, M; Tate Hobbs, A; Sam Demas, M; Max Bailis, A; Joey Treston, D; Avery Valerio, D
Top juniors: TJ Fulton, D; TJ Montes, G; Lawson Omer, A
Sophomores to watch: Kole Shugars, A; Cody Chacon, A/M
2013 highlight: 2013 was a huge leap forward for Telluride lacrosse. In its third CHSAA season, Telluride notched five wins including two against Mountain Conference teams — after going winless in the first two.
2014 outlook: “2014 is promising for Telluride lacrosse as we have the most returning senior lettermen in the history of the program,” Martin said. “We hope to build on the momentum created last year and extend our win tally.”
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Coach: Peter Devlin
2013 record: 8-8
Returning lettermen: 14
Leading seniors: Eli Negrelli, A; Sam Martin, G;
Top juniors: Chase Brown, A; Keenan D’Arcy, D;
Sophomores to watch: Wyatt Watts, M
2013 highlight: The team was excited to have made it to the playoffs for the first time since 2007. “The boys worked extremely hard to achieve several of their season goals and succeeded by working as a team,” Devlin said.
2014 outlook: “We will look to build off of the momentum gained in 2013 and continue progressing,” Devlin said. “The team shows a lot of potential and is looking forward to challenges ahead of us. We will continue to work hard each day and put our best foot forward.”
Coach: Jake Buescher
2013 record: 0-8
Coach: Tyler Knauer
2013 record: 4-11
Leading returning goal scorer: D. Williams (21)
Leading returning assists: D. Williams (24)
Leading returning points scorer: D. Williams (45)
Leading returning ground balls: S. Henderson (38)
Leading Returning Goalie(s): A. Lund (.481 save percentage), W. Dale (.532)
Coach: Toby Gerard
2013 record: 6-11
Leading returning goal scorer: D. Haga (25)
Leading returning assists: D. Haga (6)
Leading returning points scorer: D. Haga (31)
Leading returning ground balls: C. Kroll (51)
Leading returning goalie: C. Cecil
Coach: Kurt Ohlen
2013 record: 4-11
Returning lettermen: 8
Leading seniors: Jake Mitchell, D; Max Becker, M; Austin Pippen, M;
Top juniors: Adam Kreller, M; Cole Greff, M; Eric Kern, D; Matt Conklin, A;
Sophomores to watch: Tanner McAdoo, G; Tommy Topper, D;
2014 outlook: “We are a young team yet again, but the players have a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm,” Ohlen said. “Offseason workouts have been very productive and we have been competing well in winter league. Change is in the air at Golden, and this group of Demons is excited to make their presence known in the Foothills Conference.”
Coach: Nate Hallahan
2013 record: 5-10
Returning lettermen: 8
Leading seniors: Zane Larson, D; Kyle Lichty, D; Cody Schiel, G; Bryce Woodworth, A; Max Nielsen, A; Greg Haller, A; Karl Stidham, A
Top juniors: Dustin Ossello, M; Jack Day, A
Sophomores to watch: Nick Warns, M
2013 highlight: Made 4A playoffs and played a hard game against Air Academy in the first round.
2014 outlook: “We have a group of seniors who need to step into leadership roles, both off and on the field,” Hallahan said. “We need some of our young players to figure out their roles and execute them at a high level. We will need to outwork our opponents and focus on team defense and sharing the ball offensively if we want to return to the state playoffs for a second straight year.”
Coach: Rich Modesti
2013 record: 11-6
Returning lettermen: 20
Leading seniors: Eric Houghteling, FO/M, Brian McGhie, M; Stanley Garcia, D; Jonah Warren, DM/M
Top juniors: Nik Clinton, M; Johnny Parsons, A; Steve Murray, D; Jack Biegal, D
Sophomores to watch: Kale Wilson, A; Jerett Cherry, D;
2013 highlight: The 2013 season was the most successful in the short history of TV boys lacrosse. It was the first year that the team had a winning record, made the playoffs and won a playoff game. Many of the seniors that were a part of the team had participated in turning the team from a new, inexperienced program, into a contending 4A organization.
2014 outlook: The 2014 season will be a test of the program’s durability and growth over the last several seasons. This is the first season that there will be more upperclassmen on the varsity roster than underclassmen. The season that many of the players worked very hard to acquire is finally here. The team, coaches and players, are excited for the opportunities that last year’s success has brought into the current season, and look forward to building on the solid foundation that they have built.
Coach: Chris Knott
2013 record: 15-4
Returning lettermen: 26
Leading seniors: Jensen Makarov, G; John Roach, A; Caleb Cerf, D; Max Marcum, M; Dylan Mechling, M; Tyler Knott, A;
Top juniors: Cody Bartusiak, D; Dima Makarov, A; Benny Pachello, M;
Sophomores to watch: Tyler Wagner, D; Dan O’Connor, A;
2013 highlight: Winning the first 4A state championship.
2014 outlook: “We are looking forward to another great season and the chance to defend the title from 2013,” Knott said.
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Coach: Greg Schaffner
2013 record: 2-7
Returning lettermen: N/A
Leading seniors: Jack Tighe, M/A; Sam Luebbers, D/LSM; Nick Rhems, A/M;
Top juniors: Matt Costin, D/LSM; Jake Donahue, D; Paul Eshelman, D/LSM; JB Keyte, D/LSM; Matt Mannion, A; Cisco Rodriguez, M
Sophomores to watch: Zander Smith, G;
2013 highlight: A week nine win over Englewood, at Englewood. Completion of the season ended up on upward-angle, despite weather hampering the schedule, and forcing the cancellations of several contests.
2014 outlook: “We have a strong core of returning talent, and are looking to build on that nucleus with a bunch of new boys, who, while novices to lacrosse, are athletic,” Schaffner said. “Our recruitment base is tiny, but word of mouth has been strong in the school. There is an all-new coaching staff this year, and a new athletic director, so it might be fair to call this a ‘rebuilding year’ but we are strong at defense and goaltending, and excited for the season.”
Coach: Jason Brookes
2013 record: 7-8
Leading returning goal scorer: N. Moss (44)
Leading returning assists: N. Moss (31)
Leading returning points scorer: N. Moss (75)
Coach: Tim Williams
2013 record: 5-8
Coach: N/A
2013 record: 0-9
Coach: Chris Deutschman
2013 record: 14-4
Returning lettermen: 21
Leading seniors: Ethan Thompson, M; Josh O’ Connell, M; Erik Ratkelis, M;
Top juniors: Parker Courrier, M; Shawn Johnson, G; Kerry O’Rourke, G; Ryan Russell, A; Drew Bodett, M;
Sophomores to watch: Cole Baker, M; Aiden Donaldson, M; Jake Hibben, D/M; Brett Haskins, A; Elliott Benedict, D
2014 outlook: “We return two-thirds of our top point scorers from 2013 and have a very talented underclassmen contingency that we will depend on for 2014,” Deutschman said. “We graduated our entire starting defense and many top players, including seven all-state players. We are excited, though, to push our young players into starting roles and develop our experienced juniors and seniors even more. We will have an uphill climb to achieve the same successes as last year but believe that we will be able to build upon our goals from last season.”
Coach: John Belleau
2013 record: 9-7
Leading returning goal scorer: Hunter Hop (32)
Leading returning assists: Hunter Hop (6)
Leading returning points scorer: Hunter Hop (38)
Leading returning ground balls: S. King (16)
Leading returning goalie: T. Rhodes (.620 save percentage)
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Coach: Ron Garcia
2013 record: 17-2
Returning lettermen: 12
Leading seniors: Mitchell Miller, A; Austin Christiansen, M; Ben Brown, M; Nick Breland, D; Jon Tarno, D; Keaton Dealy, LSM; Spencer Dodder, LSM;
Top juniors: Luke La Grassa, M; Ben Self, D
Sophomores to watch: Jake Thornally, A
2013 highlight: “2013 campaign was huge for us,” Garcia said. “We were fortunate to win the Pikes Peak Conference an move on to the playoffs, winning against tough teams such as Ponderosa and Steamboat Springs. Came up a little short in our state final game vs. Wheat Ridge but looking forward to 2014 and getting back to the big dance. In past seasons, we’ve never made it past the second round of playoffs so we were very proud of what we have accomplished in 2013.”
2014 outlook: “We’re very excited about our 2014 campaign, coming off a great season last year at 17-2 and making a state final appearance,” Garcia said. “We’re looking to find our identity this year with mature senior leadership and some talented underclassmen. The season looks bright for us in 4A and looking to capitalize on the efforts we have put in during the offseason.”
Coach: Mike Paige
2013 record: 15-3
Leading returning goal scorer: S. Sheridan (37)
Leading returning assists: S. Sheridan (20)
Leading returning points scorer: S. Sheridan (57)
Leading returning ground balls: C. Rothstein (107)
Leading returning goalie: L. Jepson (.680 save percentage)
Coach: O’Neil Turner
2013 record: 2-10
Coach: Pat Tierney
2013 record: 10-6
Leading returning goal scorer: D. Mango (35)
Leading returning assists: B. Bruner (23)
Leading returning points scorer: B. Bruner (55)
Leading returning ground balls: J. Griffin (101)
Coach: Jason Pacheck
2013 record: 4-10
Returning lettermen: 21
Leading seniors: Dan Ballotti, D; Nick Cervi, M; Mak Kovak, A; Ian Obendorferr, G; James Lander, LSM;
Top juniors: Justin Hildebrand, D
Sophomores to watch: Christopher Cervi, A; Tanner Crapeau, D; Brian Davis, LSM; Trevor Emond, G; LSM, Midfield, Jerry Peralta, G;
2014 outlook: “We are continuing our commitment to building a positive lacrosse environment based upon character and leadership,” Pacheck said.
Coach: Isaac (Ike) Anderson
2013 record: 9-7
Returning lettermen: 16
Leading seniors: Tyler Anderson, G; Connor Gosselin, D; Mitch Estal, DM; Andrew Grammel, LSM; Henry Paris, M
Top juniors: Alex Greenly, M/FO; CJ LaMack, LSM; Michael Tafolla, M/A
Sophomores to watch: Drew Chesire, M/FO; Wes Moran, A; Kyler Kasten, A/M; Daniel Raskob, M; Ben Stockelman, D; Dylan Tait, D
2013 highlight: It was the first time St. Mary’s was the playoffs. The team finished third in the Pikes Peak Conference.
2014 outlook: Said Anderson: “We are hope to have a winning season; make the playoffs; compete within our conference; have the team compete and improve with every game; show class and play the game of lacrosse the correct way; be a team with class win or lost; a team who respect everyone, coaches, players, parents and officials; be a team first (play as a team).”
Coach: TBD
2013 record: N/A
The 2013 all-state gymnastics teams are presented by CHSAANow.com, ColoradoPreps.com and MaxPreps.
These teams were created based upon results at the state meet.
The athletes who won championships at their classification were named gymnast of the year.
Scroll down to see the teams, or use the menu below to navigate to the class of your choosing.
Gymnast of the year: Taylor Molliconi, Mountain Range
| First team | |
|---|---|
| Name | School |
| Devin Bundas | Overland |
| Sela Buted | Cherry Creek |
| Sarah Holbrook | Broomfield |
| Jordan Ireland | Standley Lake |
| Katlin Kerl | Arvada West |
| Taylor Molliconi | Mountain Range |
| Kellyn Toole | Overland |
| Baylie Trammell | Columbine |
| Rachel Wong | Cherry Creek |
Gymnast of the year: Alyssa Carroll, Thompson Valley
| First team | |
|---|---|
| Name | School |
| Anisha Alvarodo | Thompson Valley |
| Alyssa Carroll | Thompson Valley |
| Callie Cohen | Evergreen |
| Emily Reynolds | Elizabeth |
Ball Fever is a regular installment written by Thomas Trotman which rounds up boys basketball action in Class 5A and 4A.
Colorado prep hoop fans! What an exciting time in Colorado as our big school divisions have produced one memorable regular season with some excellent team play and amazing individual performances, as well.
The buzz about Colorado hoops is legit and we can thank a growing basketball community for that from our peewee rec leagues to competitive club ball, increasing individual personal training opportunities and truly dedicated high school staffs. The basketball product hitting the Colorado hardwood is improving and colleges of all levels are taking notice! Great time to be a part of Colorado hoops and now lets get to the madness!
Now, on to the tournament previews:
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The top seed coming out of this region is an extremely hot Mountain Vista (22-1) squad which is riding a 14-game winning streak. That includes their Continental League-clinching overtime thriller vs. Highlands Ranch to cap the regular season. The confident, Denver-bound Jake Pemberton leads Vista’s fast-paced attack which keeps opponents gasping for air.
Our Fever Crew discussed Chatfield playing with a bit of a chip on their shoulder in this region after going 14-2 in league and winning the Jeffco but earning a No. 3 seed.
The defending champs? Oh yes, the Eaglecrest Raptors again have a balanced attack with numerous athletes who are likely very hungry to taste the title again. Junior Blend Advili continues to be a jack of all trades for the Raptors, while LaDerian King and Jaisean Jackson’s senior leadership will make the defending champ a scary matchup.
Favorites: Mountain Vista and Eaglecrest. In our opinion, both are Boulder-capable teams but only one will get there.
Watch out for: Fort Collins can be a sneaky No. 4 seed here in our opinion. Colorado State commit Toby Van Ry and his running mate Will Duggan (Black Hills State commit) will not go down without a fight. Possible Sweet 16 match-up with Mountain Vista for Fort Collins.
Chatfield was discussed above and they may have to face a tough, well-coached ThunderRidge squad right away. Coach Joe Ortiz and crew will use the lessons learned in the tough Continental League and be prepared should that game become reality.
One year ago, we sat in the Fossil Ridge gym and watched that 2013 team battle Arapahoe to exciting last-second finish. While looking at their roster all one could think was, “This squad is going to be tough next year!”
That turned out to be a huge understatement as the SaberCats have posted a perfect 23-0 season with their first league title and many voting them as our state’s No. 1 team. The SaberCats’ lead man is Alex Semadeni, who leads their balanced attack with 14 points per game. Our Fever Crew got to see many of these young men playing club ball together as well in tough venues such as Indianapolis and Las Vegas.
Regardless of how things end up for the SaberCats, congrats are in order for coach Matt Johannsen and the entire Fossil Ridge hoops family.
With all the attention Mountain Vista and Highlands Ranch got towards the end of the season, it may have been easy to overlook Regis Jesuit but don’t make that mistake as coach Ken Shaw will have his crew prepped for postseason action. The Raiders have a No. 2 seed but some tough potential opponents in Smoky Hill, Standley Lake and possibly an Arapahoe if both can advance to Sweet 16.
Favorites: Fossil Ridge and Regis. After a tough two-point loss to Mountain Vista, Regis has quietly ran off seven in a row. Many feel Fossil Ridge/Regis have similar rosters and would love to see the two great coaches match wits as well.
Watch out for:
The season had to have a bit of a “rock star” feel for this region’s top seed Denver East Angels while they had the opportunity to play top national competition in Utah, Florida and Nebraska.
The Angels finished the season with a 19-4 mark with each loss coming out of state. CU-bound Dominique Collier and Creighton commit Ronnie Harrell lead a very celebrated starting five who all have NCAA Division I college interest and potential.
East tasted great success last year but as we all know they came up short in the title game. They haven’t lost in Colorado this year and we’re sure coach Rudy Carey’s Angels don’t plan on it.
Highlands Ranch suffered a 20-point post-winter break loss to Denver East in January and they would love a rematch now that the Falcons are healthy and at full strength. The No. 2 seed is led by big Zach Braxton (Weber State commit) and he has serious perimeter help with a healthy Evan Motlong along with Riley Stewart playing well.
Favorites: Clearly Denver East and Highlands Ranch in this region. Lots of work to be done but the city vs. suburbs fanatics would love to see this possible Sweet 16 matchup happen.
Watch out for:
The Danny Fisher-coached Overland Trailblazers (17-6) suffered a tough one-point home loss to Eaglecrest in January, but have since run off seven straight, including avenging that loss to the Raptors to lock up the Centennial League title in OT last Friday.
The young Blazers talent is well documented with two-sport stud Austin Conway running the show, big De’Ron Davis on the inside, and guards Reggie Gibson, Jervae Robinson making more consistent impact. Don’t be surprised if you hear that senior T’Aren Williams steps up for Overland somewhere during this playoff journey.
The EMAC conference hasn’t gotten a lot of respect lately but one player who could make us all take notice on any given night is future CSU Ram Jeremiah Paige. The Rangeview Raiders look good as a No. 2 seed on a 10-game win streak which includes a road victory over 4A’s No. 1 ranked squad Valor Christian to finish the season.
The Raiders could be in for a real battle if Montbello can get the win over visiting Liberty. Montbello is playing much improved ball lately and have a starting five that can compete with any in the state. The question with the Warriors will be their depth.
Favorites: Going with the No. 1 and No. 2 seeds as the favorites here as well. Giving a slight edge to Rangeview over No. 3 seed Chaparral here as they beat them head-to-head, but that was a very different Chap team early in the season. Overland carrying some serious momentum into tourney.
Watch out for:
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The consistent No. 1-ranked team most of the season in 4A has been Valor Christian and that’s hard to argue with. The Eagles have a senior-heavy roster that has gotten close to that “gold ball” and seem primed to make another Boulder run this year.
Senior Chase Foster (San Francisco commit; 20 points per game) is Mr. Versatility for the Eagles and he has a strong cast of sweet-shooting Garrett Baggett along with the toughness football studs Christian McCaffrey and Marcus Wilson bring.
Valor hoops is 19-4 and their only Colorado loss comes to 5A Rangeview.
Pueblo East got the No. 2 seed in this region. Dylan Gavin is averaging 20 points per game for East and had the team on a five-game winning streak before a season-ending loss to league champ Pueblo South.
A player who can spark his team to a run in this region is Vista PEAK’s Romello Washington. Washington can light it up, has recent games of 25, 31, 27, with a season average of 18 per game for Vista, who are undefeated league champs.
Favorites: Valor Christian and Pueblo East.
Watch out for: Ponderosa played in the brutal 5A Continental League but now look to make some noise in the 4A tourney. Will be interesting to see how Valor handles one of our states best “bigs” in 6-foot-10 Wyoming commit Jonathon Barnes should Pondo get by Mountain View.
The D’Evelyn Jaguars have a strong duo who have both averaged close to 20 points per game the entire season in Ty McGee and Grant Witherspoon. The 18-5 Jags had two late season losses to Thomas Jefferson and Wheat Ridge but their 13-1 Jeffco 4A league record won the league title and got them the No. 1 seed.
The No. 2 seed Sand Creek in this region has a real play maker of their own in Air Force commit Dylan Clark (averaging 20 points per game, as well).
Favorites: Have to add Denver West as a serious problem for folks in this region along with the two top seeds. Coach Ray Valdez has the Cowboys playing fundamentally sound and with a lot of fight. Sophomore Alpha Diallo is an up and coming play maker with nice court vision, scoring ability for West.
Watch out for: Would love to have a front row seat for a potential Sweet 16 match up of Denver West vs. Sand Creek.
Two more deserving, tough Nos. 1 and 2 seeds here as well.
Thompson Valley, 22-1 with only loss coming to 5A’s Fossil Ridge, haven’t tasted defeat since mid-December. 6-foot-5 senior Collin Smith paces the Eagles with 19 points and six rebounds per game.
Got to take a look at Thompson Valley’s balanced play when they visited a squad with a strong senior leader of their own in Cheyenne Mountain’s Ghassan Nehme (Montana State commit). Nehme, who averages almost 27 points per game, has the Indians on a five-game streak headed into tourney play.
Favorites: Top two seeds look good here but Longmont and Mesa Ridge very capable of mixing things up. Senior Austin Kemp will attempt to get Longmont back on track after two late-season losses.
Watch out for: Ghassan Nehme is an electric scorer who can put his squad on his shoulders if needed.
Pueblo South lost their first two games of the season and have impressively ran off 21 wins in a row. Now that’s momentum headed into the tourney.
Another impressive stat is that the Colts have four players averaging double figure scoring, led by Brian Pratt and Jared Baros right at 13 each per game.
Denver South holds this region’s No. 2 seed and their big man in the middle, Ibrahim Sylla (Northern Colorado commit), is a double-double highlight machine above the rim. Sylla averages 14 points and 14 rebounds per game.
Favorites: Hard to call in this extremely tough region. Stacked with competitive teams like Golden (won 10 of their last 11 games with sophomore Ryan Blodgett at 12-point and eight-rebound average) at the No. 3 seed and a No. 4 seed in Thomas Jefferson who could beat any of the top 3 if they bring their “A” game as they did in a late season win over No. 1 seed D’Evelyn.
Watch out for: “Watch your head” as the players would say when South’s Sylla or Thomas Jefferson’s Trey Andres take flight. Two of our state’s “freakish” athletes. Denver South played a strong season finale vs. 5A No. 1 Denver East. They could carry that momentum into a tourney run. Guards Lorenzo Snoddy and Tyson Purifoy capable of big games as well. This region is tough!
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Whew! Get ready for some fun tourney action folks.
Denver East/Fossil Ridge in 5A? Valor/Thompson Valley in 4A? Many have said it could play out just that way. Those have been your top big school squads all season, but we happen to remember a young man by the name of TreShawn Wilford who led the Eaglecrest Raptors on a special tournament run in 2013.
Who could be the Wilford of this years playoffs? We’ll be watching to find out! Enjoy …
DENVER — New coach.
New season.
Same result.
The Broomfield High School wrestling program with Pat DeCamillis at the helm won three individual state championships to capture their second-consecutive Class 4A team title Saturday night at the Pepsi Center.
“It’s kind of the culmination of all their hard work right here,” said DeCamillis, a veteran figure in the Colorado prep wrestling community.
Broomfield finished with 127.50 points and Thompson Valley was second at 120. Windsor (112) was third and Pueblo County and Pueblo South tied for fourth at 106 points.
This was Broomfield’s fourth state wrestling team crown and fourth in the last six years. The Eagles have now won state titles in 2009, 2010, 2013 and 2014.
Broomfield’s seniors Phil Downing (160) and Zach Stodden (182) walked away with gold medals.
Eagles’ junior Darek Huff (126) and seniors Jarod Albo (152) and heavyweight Austyn Harris also took second for the Eagles.
Downing (46-3) was the marquee winner for the Eagles as he became only the 17th wrestler in Colorado prep history to capture four state wrestling titles. Downing was named Class 4A’s outstanding wrestler.
Downing also clinched the team title for Broomfield when he scored an 11-2 major decision over Pueblo County High School’s Keenan Willits.
DeCamillis knew he was getting the keys to a Ferrari in the Broomfield program, and he was thrilled his team performed their best in the state’s biggest spotlight.
“The kids won state and it’s very gratifying,” DeCamillis said.
Since 2005, Broomfield has finished no worse than fourth in the Class 4A state team standings.
DeCamillis was a three-time state champ at Arvada West from 1988-90. Prior to taking over Broomfield, he spent nine seasons at Pomona.
“This feels good, it was a long time coming,” said DeCamillis about capturing his first state championship as a head coach.
Thompson Valley had two wrestlers in the state finals – Ben Hewson (138) and Parker Simington (145) – and Simington claimed a championship.
“This feels awesome,” said Simington after beating Mountain Vista’s Matt Combs 7-0. “I can’t wipe the smile off my face.”
Hewson was defeated by Berthoud’s Jimmy Fate.
WONDER TWIN POWERS: Freshmen Grant Willits and Hunter Willits of Pueblo County High School made Pueblo history Saturday night.
Grant (106) and Hunter (132), fraternal twins, both won state, and in the process they became the only twins from Pueblo to win state.
In Class 5A, Cherry Creek’s Mitch (126 pounds) and and Zach (138 pounds), who are also fraternal twins, won state as well Saturday night.
Grant pinned Palisade’s Randen Espinoza with eight seconds left in the third period. Hunter muscled past Pueblo South’s Marcus Martinez 10-3.
“This feels amazing, and it really hasn’t hit me yet,” Grant said. “I’m so excited right now. I just wanted to win this for my family and my brother.”
Only one other freshman – Isaac Naro of Pueblo South at 132 pounds in 2013 – ever won a state wrestling championship in Pueblo history before this year. Naro upended Pueblo Central senior Sonny Espinoza 5-2 to take state last season. Naro finished third at 138 pounds this season.
Grant actually added another line to Pueblo’s wrestling record book as he is the only freshman to capture a state wrestling title by pin.
“That’s pretty awesome,” Grant said. “I just had to stay in good position on top and get hand control and work from there. Before the season started, I couldn’t imagine being a state champion. To have this happen is just incredible.”
JUST LIKE MY BROTHER: For the second time in seven days, Discovery Canyon sophomore Sam Turner beat Pueblo County’s Chris Sandoval.
The win Saturday night was extra special for Turner as he beat Sandoval 5-3 to take state at 120 pounds.
“This is very satisfying and the best feeling in the world to know your hard work has paid off,” said Sam, who pinned Sandoval in the regional finals in the final seconds of their match after trailing 3-1. “I’m so happy.”
In 2012, as a senior Steve Turner, Sam’s brother, also won a Class 4A state crown at 120 pounds.
“This is just great that my brother and I won state at 120 pounds,” Sam said.
A year ago, Sam experienced the agony of defeat, losing to Weld Central’s Dalton Robertson 11-9 in the state finals.
TRYING TO REPEAT HISTORY: In addition to Broomfield’s Downing (160) and Stodden (182), Windsor’s Kennen Lanteri (152) and Mead’s Kyle Couch (195) also were repeat champs.
Lanteri, a senior, edged Broomfield’s Albo 4-2 in the finals.
“It’s kind of hard to describe right now,” said Lanteri, who also won state at 152 pounds last year. “I’m sure (Sunday) it will feel even better because it hasn’t really set in yet. The experience I got from being in the state finals last year really helped me this year. I was a lot more calm this year.”
Lanteri said he plans on continuing his wrestling career at Oregon State University.
A year ago as a junior Couch made history by winning the first state wrestling title in Mead’s history. On Saturday night, he became the school’s first back-to-back state winner with a 7-2 win over Discovery Canyon’s David Traynor.
“I wasn’t as nervous (Saturday night),” said the 6-foot-2 Couch, who signed to play linebacker for Colorado Mesa University. “It was just a great win.”
Last season Couch defeated Montezuma-Cortez’s Trenton Gustafson 4-2 at 182 pounds in the state finals.
Now, the program which is five years old, has two individual state champions and three state titles as junior Sage Budd was a gold medalist at 126 pounds Saturday night as he defeat Broomfield’s Huff.
“It is pretty special,” Mead coach Ty Tatham said about getting two state champs. “I’m not going to forget about this for a long time. Sage’s win was huge. In Kyle’s match, he just has a way of preparing and being ready to go and he just had a great tournament.”
DENVER — For some observers, this match wasn’t highlighted Thursday night at the Class 4A state wrestling tournament.
However, there was plenty at stake when Pueblo South’s Davis Baxter and Thompson Valley’s Sage D’Ambrosia met in the first round at the Pepsi Center — especially in the team race.
Broomfield, Thompson Valley and Pueblo South were ranked No. 1, 2, and 3 by On The Mat prior to the state tournament.
“Our focus right now is bringing home a team title,” said the senior Baxter about the Colts who won state in 1997, 2004 and 2005.
Baxter did his part by muscling past D’Ambriosa 4-2.
“We know all the head-to-head matches with Thompson Valley are very important because they have more guys qualified than us,” said the unranked Baxter after his win over No. 6-ranked D’Ambrosia . “I’m just glad I was able to come through.”
The Colts’ Mitchel Chavez also scored a dramatic 6-5 win over Thompson Valley’s David Eusea. Chavez had a five-point move in the last 20 seconds to get the win.
Defending champion Broomfield qualified 11 wrestlers for state, while Thompson Valley brought 12 and South nine.
Thompson Valley is leading the team chase with 25 points followed by Pueblo South and Windsor which are tied for second with 22 points. Broomfield is sixth with 18 points.
Thompson Valley and South both advanced eight wrestlers and Broomfield had six winners.
In the Baxter-D’Ambrosia match, neither wrestler could get anything going in the first period.
The match remained scoreless until Baxter hit a reversal to take a 2-0 lead with two seconds left in the second period.
Baxter knew his lead wasn’t safe and he was right.
D’Ambrosia answered with a reversal of his own to tie the match at 2-2 with 1:22 left in the third period.
“At South, we focus a lot on conditioning and in the third period I still had a lot left in me and I was able to get the job done,” said Baxter, who ran his season record to 31-13.
Baxter’s takedown at 1:10 of the third put him up 4-2.
“There was a lot scrambling out there and I was getting mixed up with the score,” Baxter said.
D’Ambrosia (33-12) also was lost in the moment.
“I was trying to take him down and he got a funky (two-point) nearfall,” D’Ambrosia said. “I knew after that I had to go after it and try and score some points.”
As the clock was ticking down, Baxter was clinging to his slim advantage.
“In those last seconds I looked at the clock and saw I was winning and I knew I had to avoid getting turned and not give up anything easy,” Baxter said.
D’Ambrosia was gracious in defeat.
“I was trying to take him down and I just ran out of time,” he said.
TURNING SOME HEADS: Berthoud’s Nate Ryken thought his wrestling season was over before regionals last weekend.
“I didn’t even think I was going to wrestle,” said Ryken, who was hampered by a dislocated left elbow injury. “My coaches told me to go out there and give it my all before I stopped my senior year. I went out there and gave it my all and I took fourth.”
That effort qualified Ryken for state and he took full advantage of the opportunity by stunning Broomfield’s Demetruis Zissimos with a third-period pin.
Zissimos (5-1), who was coming back from a broken leg he suffered during football season, was the only undefeated wrestler in all of the 4A brackets.
“I had never wrestled him before,” Ryken said. “I don’t look at the person if they are good or bad. I’m going in how I’m going to go in and I’m going to fight. I feel like this win shows heart and my work ethic and now I’m just going to take one match at a time and wrestle my butt off.”
Ryken improved his record to 16-5 after his pin with 1:19 left in the third period.
LAST YEAR’S CHAMPIONS MOVE ON: Broomfield’s Phil Downing and Zach Stodden, Weld Central’s Dalton Robertson, Palisade’s Dalton Harrington, Pueblo South’s Isaac Naro, Windsor’s Kennen Lanteri, and Mead’s Kyle Couch all won their first-round matches Thursday.
EYEING GOLD: A year ago, Montezuma-Cortez’s Seager Oliver advanced to the 160-pound Class 4A state finals only to get upended by Thompson Valley’s Francisco Marquez.
Now, a junior, Oliver is more determined than ever to capture a coveted gold medal.
Oliver, the No. 1 ranked wrestler at 170 pounds, made a quick statement Thursday night, scoring a 15-0 technical fall over Woodland Park’s Josh Smith.
“I’ve had several tech falls and several pins this season,” said Oliver, who ran his record to 38-2. “I approach every match the same and I treat every match like I’m wrestling the No. 1 guy in state. I never let up and I don’t overlook anybody. The first match is always the worst and I’m glad I got that one over, and I’m happy with the way I wrestled.”
Oliver has a simple plan for the rest of the weekend.
“I just have to go out there and be mean every match and not give them an edge,” Oliver said.
Shad Bellmire, Montezuma-Cortez’s coach, likes Oliver’s approach.
“He’s got the attitude that he wants that gold and he’s headed in that direction,” Belmire said. “He’s worked hard and pushed himself and he has that gold medal in mind.”
Oliver is trying to become Montezuma-Cortez’s first state champion since 2010 when Casey Lynn won state at 135 pounds in Class 4A.
With one week to go in the regular season, Fossil Ridge nearly overtook Denver East atop the Class 5A basketball rankings.
Nearly.
The SaberCats remained in the No. 2 spot despite the fact that both schools received 10 first-place votes. Denver East, though, held on to its top ranking by one overall point.
The Angels have been No. 1 all season, save for one week in mid-January when Fossil Ridge led the poll.
Mountain Vista stayed put at No. 3 this week, and continued to be followed by No. 4 Regis Jesuit and No. 5 Eaglecrest.
Overland bumped up on place to No. 6, while Highlands Ranch went from No. 10 to No. 7 after going 2-0 last week.
Arapahoe dropped two spots to No. 8, Rangeview is the poll’s lone newcomer at No. 9, and Grand Junction rounds out the ranking at No. 10.
The Centennial and Continental leagues both have three teams in the top-10 this week. The Denver Prep, Front Range and East Metro and Southwestern all have one ranked team.
Elsewhere, the 1A poll has a new No. 1 team. Hi-Plains took over for Caliche after receiving eight of the 11 first-place votes in that class. Hi-Plains went 3-0 last week, while Caliche went 1-2, though both losses were to ranked 2A teams.
That ranking added No. 9 Cheraw and No. 10 Briggsdale.
The No. 1 teams in 4A (Valor Christian), 3A (Holy Family) and 2A (Ignacio) stayed the same this week.
The 4A poll added No. 9 Cheyenne Mountain and No. 10 Denver West. 3A added No. 7 Denver Science & Tech and No. 10 Platte Valley.
Holyoke (No. 9) and Meeker (No. 10) were the new teams in the 2A ranking this week.
As the regular season ends for all classes this week, these will be the final rankings of the season.
Complete polls for all classes are below.
[divider]
Voted upon by coaches and media members around the state. These rankings have no bearing on postseason seeding.
Coaches and media members looking to vote should email rcasey@chsaa.org.
| Class 5A | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RK | TEAM | W-L | PTS | PVS | LW |
| 1 | Denver East (10) | 16-4 | 190 | 1 | 1-1 |
| 2 | Fossil Ridge (10) | 21-0 | 189 | 2 | 2-0 |
| 3 | Mountain Vista | 20-1 | 152 | 3 | 2-0 |
| 4 | Regis Jesuit | 18-3 | 135 | 4 | 2-0 |
| 5 | Eaglecrest | 16-5 | 106 | 5 | 2-1 |
| 6 | Overland | 15-6 | 94 | 7 | 2-0 |
| 7 | Highlands Ranch | 15-6 | 63 | 10 | 2-0 |
| 8 | Arapahoe | 16-5 | 61 | 6 | 2-1 |
| 9 | Rangeview | 18-3 | 39 | – | 2-0 |
| 10 | Grand Junction | 17-2 | 21 | 9 | 1-0 |
| Others receiving votes: | |||||
| Grandview 16, Monarch 10, Chatfield 7, Chaparral 5, Cherry Creek 5, Dakota Ridge 2, Fort Collins 2, Legend 2, Montbello 1. | |||||
| Dropped out | |||||
| Chatfield (8). | |||||
| Class 4A | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RK | TEAM | W-L | PTS | PVS | LW |
| 1 | Valor Christian (16) | 18-3 | 160 | 1 | 2-0 |
| 2 | Thompson Valley | 20-1 | 139 | 2 | 2-0 |
| 3 | Pueblo South | 19-2 | 124 | 3 | 1-0 |
| 4 | Longmont | 18-3 | 85 | 7 | 2-0 |
| 5 | Pueblo East | 17-4 | 79 | 6 | 1-0 |
| 6 | D’Evelyn | 17-4 | 77 | 4 | 2-1 |
| 7 | Denver South | 15-7 | 52 | 8 | 1-0 |
| 8 | Sand Creek | 16-5 | 45 | 5 | 1-2 |
| 9 | Cheyenne Mountain | 15-5 | 32 | – | 2-0 |
| 10 | Denver West | 13-7 | 26 | – | 2-0 |
| Others receiving votes: | |||||
| Air Academy 20, Thomas Jefferson 20, Golden 14, Wheat Ridge 6, Rifle 1. | |||||
| Dropped out | |||||
| Air Academy (9), Golden (10). | |||||
| Class 3A | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RK | TEAM | W-L | PTS | PVS | LW |
| 1 | Holy Family (9) | 17-1 | 126 | 1 | 1-1 |
| 2 | Colorado Academy (2) | 16-1 | 117 | 2 | 2-0 |
| 3 | Jefferson Academy (1) | 15-3 | 97 | 5 | 1-0 |
| 4 | Faith Christian | 12-5 | 91 | 3 | 1-0 |
| 5 | Colorado Springs Christian (1) | 14-3 | 88 | 4 | 3-0 |
| 6 | Moffat County | 14-2 | 60 | 9 | 3-0 |
| 7 | Denver Science & Tech | 14-4 | 33 | – | 3-0 |
| 8 | The Pinnacle | 14-4 | 31 | 10 | 2-1 |
| 9 | Aspen | 15-3 | 24 | 7 | 2-1 |
| 10 | Platte Valley | 13-5 | 18 | – | 3-0 |
| Others receiving votes: | |||||
| Brush 16, St. Mary’s 9, Bishop Machebeuf 5. | |||||
| Dropped out | |||||
| Brush (6), Centauri (8). | |||||
| Class 2A | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RK | TEAM | W-L | PTS | PVS | LW |
| 1 | Ignacio (9) | 16-0 | 141 | 1 | 3-0 |
| 2 | Sanford (1) | 16-1 | 127 | 2 | 2-0 |
| 3 | Lutheran (4) | 11-6 | 120 | 4 | 2-0 |
| 4 | Akron | 15-1 | 113 | 3 | 2-0 |
| 5 | Resurrection Christian (1) | 15-2 | 86 | 5 | 1-0 |
| 6 | Yuma | 15-3 | 76 | 6 | 3-0 |
| 7 | Peyton | 14-2 | 54 | 7 | 1-0 |
| 8 | Simla | 15-2 | 44 | 8 | 2-0 |
| 9 | Holyoke | 11-6 | 14 | – | 2-1 |
| 10 | Meeker | 14-4 | 13 | – | 2-0 |
| Others receiving votes: | |||||
| Rye 12, Crowley County 7, Center 6, Denver Christian 5, Telluride 3, Haxtun 1, Paonia 1, Sedgwick County 1, Swink 1. | |||||
| Dropped out | |||||
| Rye (9), Denver Christian (10). | |||||
| Class 1A | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RK | TEAM | W-L | PTS | PVS | LW |
| 1 | Hi-Plains (8) | 16-1 | 107 | 2 | 3-0 |
| 2 | Caliche (3) | 15-2 | 101 | 1 | 1-2 |
| 3 | Holly | 14-3 | 87 | 3 | 2-0 |
| 4 | Cheyenne Wells | 12-5 | 67 | 4 | 1-2 |
| 5 | South Baca | 12-4 | 61 | 7 | 1-0 |
| 6 | Vail Christian | 13-5 | 56 | 6 | 2-1 |
| 7 | McClave | 13-4 | 48 | 5 | 1-1 |
| 8 | Shining Mountain | 14-4 | 33 | 8 | 2-0 |
| 9 | Cheraw | 11-4 | 15 | – | 4-0 |
| 10 | Briggsdale | 11-5 | 13 | – | 2-0 |
| Others receiving votes: | |||||
| Jim Elliot Christian 10, Primero 2, Walsh 2, Norwood 1, Peetz 1, Liberty/Stratton 1. | |||||
| Dropped out | |||||
| Primero (9), Norwood (10). | |||||
A complete schedule and scoreboard for boys basketball’s top-10 teams this week.
Go to: 5A | 4A | 3A | 2A | 1A
[divider]
| Class 5A | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Denver East | 18-4 |
| Tues: W 76-51 vs. George Washington | ||
| Fri: W 62-58 at (4A 7) Denver South | ||
| 2 | Fossil Ridge | 23-0 |
| Tues: W 45-34 at Fort Collins | ||
| Thurs: W 77-33 vs. Loveland | ||
| 3 | Mountain Vista | 22-1 |
| Tues: W 80-66 at Legend | ||
| Fri: W 75-73 vs. (7) Highlands Ranch | ||
| 4 | Regis Jesuit | 20-3 |
| Tues: W 78-43 vs. Douglas County | ||
| Fri: W 70-47 at Ponderosa | ||
| 5 | Eaglecrest | 17-6 |
| Wed: W 54-52 at Smoky Hill | ||
| Fri: L 65-68 vs. (6) Overland | ||
| 6 | Overland | 17-6 |
| Wed: W 56-38 at Cherry Creek | ||
| Fri: W 68-65 at (5) Eaglecrest | ||
| 7 | Highlands Ranch | 16-7 |
| Tues: W 72-45 vs. Ponderosa | ||
| Fri: L 73-75 at (3) Mountain Vista | ||
| 8 | Arapahoe | 18-5 |
| Wed: W 43-42 at Grandview | ||
| Fri: W 71-65 at Cherokee Trail | ||
| 9 | Rangeview | 20-3 |
| Tues: W 94-53 vs. Hinkley | ||
| Thurs: W 83-76 at (4A 1) Valor Christian | ||
| 10 | Grand Junction | 18-2 |
| Tues: W 87-41 vs. Grand Junction Central | ||
| Class 4A | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Valor Christian | 19-4 |
| Thurs: L 76-83 vs. (5A 9) Rangeview | ||
| Fri: W 53-40 at Sierra | ||
| 2 | Thompson Valley | 22-1 |
| Tues: W 52-39 at (4) Longmont | ||
| Fri: W 72-55 at Mountain View | ||
| 3 | Pueblo South | 21-2 |
| Tues: W 84-74 at Pueblo West | ||
| Fri: W 66-62 vs. (5) Pueblo East | ||
| 4 | Longmont | 18-5 |
| Tues: L 39-52 vs. (2) Thompson Valley | ||
| Fri: L 47-52 at Silver Creek | ||
| 5 | Pueblo East | 18-5 |
| Tues: W 54-50 at Pueblo Central | ||
| Fri: L 62-66 at (3) Pueblo South | ||
| 6 | D’Evelyn | 18-5 |
| Wed: L 60-69 at Wheat Ridge | ||
| Fri: W 90-48 at Arvada | ||
| 7 | Denver South | 15-8 |
| Fri: L 58-62 vs. (5A 1) Denver East | ||
| 8 | Sand Creek | 17-5 |
| Tues: W 56-41 vs. Lewis-Palmer | ||
| Sat: at Falcon | ||
| 9 | Cheyenne Mountain | 18-5 |
| Tues: W 86-45 vs. Discovery Canyon | ||
| Thurs: W 69-47 vs. Air Academy | ||
| Fri: W 68-63 vs. Palmer Ridge | ||
| 10 | Denver West | 15-8 |
| Mon: W 78-70 vs. Silver Creek | ||
| Tues: L 67-74 vs. Montbello | ||
| Fri: W 70-54 at Denver North | ||
| Class 3A | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Holy Family | 18-1 |
| Wed: W 52-35 vs. Kent Denver | ||
| 2 | Colorado Academy | 18-1 |
| Tues: W 90-51 vs. Denver North | ||
| Fri: W 83-62 at (2A 5) Resurrection Christian | ||
| 3 | Jefferson Academy | 15-3 |
| Tues: vs. The Classical Academy | ||
| 4 | Faith Christian | 13-6 |
| Tues: W 71-29 vs. Manual | ||
| Thurs: L 60-68 at Northglenn | ||
| 5 | Colorado Springs Christian | 16-3 |
| Tues: W 68-28 vs. Florence | ||
| Thurs: W 62-43 at Manitou Springs | ||
| 6 | Moffat County | 15-3 |
| Tues: L 55-64 at Gunnison | ||
| Fri: W 54-51 at Coal Ridge | ||
| Sat: vs. Grand Valley | ||
| 7 | Denver Science & Tech | 15-5 |
| Mon: W 84-51 at Middle Park | ||
| Tues: L 54-56 at (8) The Pinnacle | ||
| 8 | The Pinnacle | 15-4 |
| Tues: W 56-54 vs. (7) Denver Science & Tech | ||
| 9 | Aspen | 16-3 |
| Fri: W 44-40 at Gunnison | ||
| 10 | Platte Valley | 14-5 |
| Tues: W 78-52 vs. Eaton | ||
| Class 2A | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ignacio | 17-0 |
| Tues: at Monticello (Utah) | ||
| Fri: W 59-41 at Norwood | ||
| Sat: vs. Telluride | ||
| 2 | Sanford | 18-1 |
| Tues: W 75-32 at Pagosa Springs | ||
| Fri: W 54-36 at Sangre de Cristo | ||
| 3 | Lutheran | 13-6 |
| Tues: W 58-36 vs. University | ||
| Fri: W 63-40 at Byers | ||
| 4 | Akron | 18-1 |
| Tues: W 77-50 at Wiggins | ||
| Thurs: W 68-65 at (9) Holyoke | ||
| Fri: W 73-45 vs. Merino | ||
| 5 | Resurrection Christian | 16-3 |
| Tues: W 87-51 vs. Nederland | ||
| Fri: L 62-83 vs. (3A 2) Colorado Academy | ||
| 6 | Yuma | 16-3 |
| Thurs: W 59-55 at (1A 1) Hi-Plains | ||
| 7 | Peyton | 16-2 |
| Fri: W 79-39 vs. Evangelical Christian | ||
| Sat: W 62-51 vs. Center | ||
| 8 | Simla | 16-2 |
| Tues: W 76-57 at Custer County | ||
| Sat: at Miami-Yoder | ||
| 9 | Holyoke | 12-7 |
| Thurs: L 65-68 vs. (4) Akron | ||
| Fri: W 73-69 at Sedgwick County | ||
| 10 | Meeker | 14-5 |
| Tues: L 49-52 at Rangely | ||
| Class 1A | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hi-Plains | 16-2 |
| Thurs: L 55-59 vs. (2A 6) Yuma | ||
| Sat: vs. Byers | ||
| 2 | Caliche | 16-2 |
| Fri: W 49-39 at Haxtun | ||
| Sat: vs. Pawnee | ||
| 3 | Holly | 14-4 |
| Tues: L 45-51 at Granada | ||
| Thurs: vs. Elkhart (Kan.) | ||
| 4 | Cheyenne Wells | 12-6 |
| Tues: vs. Weskan (Kan.) | ||
| Fri: L 41-45 at Kit Carson | ||
| 5 | South Baca | 12-5 |
| Thurs: L 59-65 vs. Springfield | ||
| Sat: at Primero | ||
| 6 | Vail Christian | 13-5 |
| Sat: at Plateau Valley | ||
| 7 | McClave | 15-4 |
| Thurs: W 56-49 vs. Wiley | ||
| Fri: W 76-30 at Eads | ||
| 8 | Shining Mountain | 14-4 |
| Thurs: vs. Eagle Ridge Academy | ||
| 9 | Cheraw | 12-5 |
| Tues: W 56-47 vs. Wiley | ||
| Fri: L 32-59 vs. Granada | ||
| Sat: vs. Kit Carson | ||
| 10 | Briggsdale | 12-6 |
| Thurs: L 45-52 vs. Merino | ||
| Fri: W 38-37 at Prairie | ||
FORT COLLINS — Evergreen has been a power the last three seasons in Class 4A girls swimming and diving. The only thing missing was a title.
Not anymore.
The Cougars had placed second as a team in 2012 and third in 2013, but had never tasted a state title in the sport in school history. That changed Saturday afternoon at the Edora Pool Ice Center as Evergreen ran away and hid from the 4A field with 332.5 points, nearly 90 points ahead of their nearest competitor, Thompson Valley, which finished with 244.
“The past couple of years we’ve been on the cusp of having the potential to win and we just came into this meet knowing that it was going to be a race,” Evergreen star Lindsay Morrow said. “We all performed really well.
“This is the first time Evergreen’s ever won state in swimming, so that’s huge for us in making history. It was really fun that we were able to be a part of that and be a good showing for Evergreen.”
Morrow, a state champion in the 200-yard individual medley as a freshman, claimed her second state title in the event Saturday with a time of 2:05.29 and her first state title in the 100-yard backstroke. Her backstroke time of 55.69 was merely .06 seconds off her own 4A state record, set during prelims on Friday.
“It wasn’t a best time for me, but I’m really happy I got the record (Friday), which was kind of my goal going into it,” Morrow said.
Morrow also swam the first leg of the champion 200-yard medley relay that just held off Manitou Springs 1:48.28 to 1:48.88.
Evergreen coach Jeanne Godaire had high praise for her star junior.
“She’s the most determined swimmer I think I’ve ever met,” Godaire said. “She’s such a firecracker in the water and comes off the blocks and off the turns and is just such a persevering swimmer.”
Thompson Valley entered the weekend as the four time defending state champions, but Evergreen, which was expected to contend last season, too, had its 200-yard medley relay disqualified in that meet and had to settle for third as a team.
“It was the first event,” Godaire said. “It was tough on them knowing that we weren’t in contention for first after losing all those points. The girls really rallied, they showed a lot of character for our team, but this year we were definitely rooting for everyone to just get through the relays and place as high as they could.”
This season Evergreen, had enough firepower and depth to claim the title.
“It’s kind of hard to believe,” Godaire said. “It’s a victory so sweet for us. We were hoping for it, but we were waiting until the end to make sure that we had it.
“It’s so exciting for our team,” Godaire added. “I can’t express how excited the whole community is going to be in Evergreen for our victory.”
Evergreen won the state title in the 200-yard medley relay, placed third in the 400-yard freestyle relay, and fouth in the 200-yard freestyle relay. The win was a complete effort by the Cougars as they scored big points in everything from the 1-meter diving competition to the 100-yard freestyle to the 500-yard freestyle.
Evergreen unseating Thompson Valley for the 4A crown wasn’t the only highlight of the afternoon in Fort Collins, though.
Alexa Beckwith, a senior at St. Mary’s Academy and a University of Missouri recruit, won her fourth state title in diving with a score of 479.75 points, more than 15 points ahead of Mullen’s Katie Russ. Beckwith is one of the top prep divers in the nation.
Valor Christian’s Brooke Stenstrom, a sophomore, won the 50-yard freestyle in 23.66 and the 100-yard freestyle by nearly a full second over the field in 51.70. The state championships were the first individual titles of Stenstrom’s career.
Cheyenne Mountain’s senior Sydney Buckley won her third consecutive 100-yard butterfly title in a near 4A record time of 55.85. The mark was only .21 seconds off the record held by Mackenzie Stein of Green Mountain in 2011. Stein now swims at Stanford.
Windsor’s superstar freshman, Morgan Friesen, set the 4A record in the 100-yard breaststroke during prelims on Friday with a time of 1:03.28. Saturday, Friesen blew that time out of the water and became the first 4A swimmer to ever go sub 1:03 in the event with a sizzling 1:02.73. The time was just a little short of the all-classification record of 1:02.47.
All of these performances were quite impressive, but Thompson Valley’s Eryn Eddy shined as bright as any star on Saturday. The junior, who came into the weekend with two individual state titles to her name, added to her already illustrious career with two more individual titles in the 200 and 500-yard freestyle races.
Eddy won the 200-yard freestyle by over five seconds over D’Evelyn’s Colleen Olson. Her time of 1:48.89 was just off her own 4A record of 1:48.34, set last season at state, and she repeated as the 200 freestyle champion.
She also tried the 500 freestyle for the first time at state and came close to the classification record in that event, as well, with a 4:56.03, 15 seconds clear of the field and only a second and a half off the record.
Eddy said she enjoyed both races on Saturday.
“200’s my baby and I love it, but I also really like the 500,” Eddy said. “I knew that I had to really focus on my tempo. I knew that I was going to have to race girls from a different perspective. Again, like the 200, I had to get into a different mental mode of how I was going to get out there and race, so I just really got out there and tried my best.”
The Thompson Valley junior anchored the winning 200 and 400-yard freestyle relays. The Eagles won their fifth consecutive 200 freestyle relay in a mark of 1:37.01, but the 400 freestyle relay was perhaps the most exciting race of the day.
D’Evelyn held the lead the first three legs of the event and still held a comfortable gap when Eryn Eddy dove in. Eddy made up a few-yards, then a few more-yards, then a few more-yards, before finally catching D’Evelyn’s Jacinda Whittenburg with 25 meters to go. Eddy closed hard the last 25 to lead Thompson Valley to the win 3:32.07 to 3:32.66.
“I asked to go last, because I love playing catch up,” Eddy said after the race. “I really just put it out for my girls today. We had a large amount of our team come back and cheer for us, so I just put it out there for my Lady Eagles.”
Fantastic individuals starred on Saturday in Fort Collins, but nothing could completely steal the spotlight from Evergreen’s team title. The scary part for the rest of the state is that the Cougars had zero seniors in the state finals.
“I think we’re going to come back with a strong team and I’m sure the other teams will get some new and great swimmers too, but we’re just really enjoying the moment right now,” Godaire said.
“All were doing is gaining next year,” added Morrow, “which is fun and everybody’s going to get a lot better, so I’m really excited for next year, as well.”