But it is kind of fun to read about. Enjoy.
http://www.bsports.org/fullstory.php?storyid=12372
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Saturday, September 6, 2008
And My Prediction For This Years Champion Is...
... to once again not make a prediction. I have nothing against the predictions or the people who make them. My simple reason for avoiding this is due to what I perceive as a nearly impossible task. Wire to wire winners in high school football happen about as often as the favorites winning the Kentucky Derby. I'm their are many reasons for this that could (and have) spend hours pondering, but I won't get into them.
The only theory I really feel comfortable putting forth is "Lightning in a Bottle." Disapointing to most high school football fans, the theory simply says that there are approximately 20 teams each year that have the potential to hold up the championship trophy in December. The one team that ends up doing does so for a number of reasons. They range anywhere from upsets, teams peaking too early or at just the right time, or simply epiphanies. In addition to these reasons, there are many other ones which I either have or have not thought of.
Of the 20 teams that I believe have the potential to win the state championship, I'm confident that I can name about 15 of them in a given year. The rest emerge as the season progresses. When one of these 5 teams occaisionally emerge to win the championship, they usually begin their celebration be saying something to the effect of, "No one thought we could do it, but we did!" They're usually right.
Last season is the perfect example of this. At the end of the regular season, I was predicting that Lewis & Clark would continue its winless streak in the playoffs. By the time they had beaten up Woodinville, I was predicting them to win it all. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I was elated at being wrong on the former prediction. The Tigers are a team that would qualify in the "epiphany" department. At halftime of their last regular season game against Gonzaga Prep, Coach Yearout gave his team a speech that turned their whole season around.
As thrilled as I was to see LC win last years title, I was even moreso back in 1988 when Ingraham pulled in off. As happy as I was, though, I have no problem analyzing what took place that season objectively. In doing this, I'd have to say that Ingraham wasn't even close to being the best team in the state that year. Both Puyallup and Gonzaga Prep were loaded with Division 1 talent that year, but chose to play their worst game of the year in the playoffs. When some of Kentwood's key player that included their quarterback (Alex Rivas) and star running back (Derek Baker) were caught around dope a couple of days before the state championship game, the Rams' path to the championship couldn't have gone any smoother. Having grown up and gone to school with many of the members of that team, I was as happy as anyone. Ingraham is a team that I would categorize as winning due to upsets.
There are several teams that qualify in the "peaked at just the right time" category. They are teams that I saw play earlier in the season, and wrote off as having any chance of winning a state championship. Newport in qualifies here. I watched their regular season game against Bellevue, in addition to some of their uninspiring playoff games that year. The combination of that, in addition to their lackluster performance in the 1990 title game, led me to giving their chances at winning the title somewhere between slim and none. Unbeknownest to anyone else, I was privvy to some inside info that Slim had recently left town. With no warning whatsoever, Slim and a bunch of his friends slipped into town on December 5th as Newport not only won the state championship, but did so in one of most dominant fashions I've ever seen.
In addition to these 3 categories there are also teams that fall into more than one of them. In what I consider a humbling experience, I'm certain there are also multiple teams that qualify in a multitude of different categories that I haven't even thought of.
What's the point of all this? I guess there are 2 things that I'm trying to communicate. #1 is that I'm a windbag who loves see hear the sound of my own voice. #2, and most importantly, high school football is here again. It's going to be another great season. Let's all have some fun and watch it unfold!
For anyone looking to see what's happening in different parts of the part, here's some good links.
Seattle/King & Snohomish County
Pierce County
Vancouver area
Tri Cities, Walla Walla, Moses Lake, and Wenatchee
Spokane
The only theory I really feel comfortable putting forth is "Lightning in a Bottle." Disapointing to most high school football fans, the theory simply says that there are approximately 20 teams each year that have the potential to hold up the championship trophy in December. The one team that ends up doing does so for a number of reasons. They range anywhere from upsets, teams peaking too early or at just the right time, or simply epiphanies. In addition to these reasons, there are many other ones which I either have or have not thought of.
Of the 20 teams that I believe have the potential to win the state championship, I'm confident that I can name about 15 of them in a given year. The rest emerge as the season progresses. When one of these 5 teams occaisionally emerge to win the championship, they usually begin their celebration be saying something to the effect of, "No one thought we could do it, but we did!" They're usually right.
Last season is the perfect example of this. At the end of the regular season, I was predicting that Lewis & Clark would continue its winless streak in the playoffs. By the time they had beaten up Woodinville, I was predicting them to win it all. Anyone who knows me will tell you that I was elated at being wrong on the former prediction. The Tigers are a team that would qualify in the "epiphany" department. At halftime of their last regular season game against Gonzaga Prep, Coach Yearout gave his team a speech that turned their whole season around.
As thrilled as I was to see LC win last years title, I was even moreso back in 1988 when Ingraham pulled in off. As happy as I was, though, I have no problem analyzing what took place that season objectively. In doing this, I'd have to say that Ingraham wasn't even close to being the best team in the state that year. Both Puyallup and Gonzaga Prep were loaded with Division 1 talent that year, but chose to play their worst game of the year in the playoffs. When some of Kentwood's key player that included their quarterback (Alex Rivas) and star running back (Derek Baker) were caught around dope a couple of days before the state championship game, the Rams' path to the championship couldn't have gone any smoother. Having grown up and gone to school with many of the members of that team, I was as happy as anyone. Ingraham is a team that I would categorize as winning due to upsets.
There are several teams that qualify in the "peaked at just the right time" category. They are teams that I saw play earlier in the season, and wrote off as having any chance of winning a state championship. Newport in qualifies here. I watched their regular season game against Bellevue, in addition to some of their uninspiring playoff games that year. The combination of that, in addition to their lackluster performance in the 1990 title game, led me to giving their chances at winning the title somewhere between slim and none. Unbeknownest to anyone else, I was privvy to some inside info that Slim had recently left town. With no warning whatsoever, Slim and a bunch of his friends slipped into town on December 5th as Newport not only won the state championship, but did so in one of most dominant fashions I've ever seen.
In addition to these 3 categories there are also teams that fall into more than one of them. In what I consider a humbling experience, I'm certain there are also multiple teams that qualify in a multitude of different categories that I haven't even thought of.
What's the point of all this? I guess there are 2 things that I'm trying to communicate. #1 is that I'm a windbag who loves see hear the sound of my own voice. #2, and most importantly, high school football is here again. It's going to be another great season. Let's all have some fun and watch it unfold!
For anyone looking to see what's happening in different parts of the part, here's some good links.
Seattle/King & Snohomish County
Pierce County
Vancouver area
Tri Cities, Walla Walla, Moses Lake, and Wenatchee
Spokane
Sunday, August 10, 2008
This Really Stinks.
http://www.tri-cityherald.com/reneferran/story/264861.html
It looks like the playoff tournament is reverting back to the old format in high school football. That obviously means that we could potentially have seasons like 1997 all over again. It also eliminates the possibility of having a scenario like we almost had last year where we were potentially one bad snap from having 2 Spokane schools play for the state championship.
For the time being, there is now a very good chance that the state championship will not take place in December under the revised playoff format that the WIAA has constructed.
It looks like the playoff tournament is reverting back to the old format in high school football. That obviously means that we could potentially have seasons like 1997 all over again. It also eliminates the possibility of having a scenario like we almost had last year where we were potentially one bad snap from having 2 Spokane schools play for the state championship.
For the time being, there is now a very good chance that the state championship will not take place in December under the revised playoff format that the WIAA has constructed.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Thursday, July 10, 2008
A Brief Preview of the Big 9.
http://www.tri-cityherald.com/1247/story/218607.html
Here's a brief look at some of the Big 9 teams right before school lets out by Rene Ferran (IMO, one of the best prep writers in the state).
I'm still not sure how the post season allocations will play out between the Big 9 and GSL in October, and that will go a long way in determining how well both leagues fare in the post season. I'm still taking the position that the Big 9 hurt more than it helped the kids by forcing the Kennewick schools to opt up.
Here's a brief look at some of the Big 9 teams right before school lets out by Rene Ferran (IMO, one of the best prep writers in the state).
I'm still not sure how the post season allocations will play out between the Big 9 and GSL in October, and that will go a long way in determining how well both leagues fare in the post season. I'm still taking the position that the Big 9 hurt more than it helped the kids by forcing the Kennewick schools to opt up.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Friday, May 30, 2008
Let's put this one behind us.
It would be a colossal understatement to say that this was a bad year for the WIAA. As I pointed out earlier, they totally blew the situation regarding Archbishop Murphy's football team having to forfeit all of their games. Even more embarrassing was this situation the took place at the state track meet last weekend. The two most obvious reasons why this decision should be overturned is one, the paper work describing the penalty is full of errors and should therefore be invalid. The second, and most important one, is that the competitors had the common sense to see the erroneous judgement (long before the video confirmed it), and correct the matter themselves.
The WIAA certainly has made its share of mistakes in the past. On the whole, I think any objective observer would ascertain that the overall positives far outweigh the negatives. Hopefully this is simply just a bad year, and they can learn from their mistakes. Maybe we can all do that.
The WIAA certainly has made its share of mistakes in the past. On the whole, I think any objective observer would ascertain that the overall positives far outweigh the negatives. Hopefully this is simply just a bad year, and they can learn from their mistakes. Maybe we can all do that.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Never Heard of Him, But He Looks Good
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/highschoolsports/2004328921_prepnotes05.html
Here's a write up on the coach at Mt. Ranier High School. On paper, I'm pretty excited. They haven't had a decent team since Osbourne (now at Kentridge) left. I hope Paulson changes that.
Here's a write up on the coach at Mt. Ranier High School. On paper, I'm pretty excited. They haven't had a decent team since Osbourne (now at Kentridge) left. I hope Paulson changes that.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Sounds Cool To Me
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/highschoolsports/2004318685_prepnotes01.html
Don't know anything about Mac Taylor, but I have no reason to think he won't be a perfect fit. Only time will tell. Good luck, coach.
Don't know anything about Mac Taylor, but I have no reason to think he won't be a perfect fit. Only time will tell. Good luck, coach.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Buddy Bland?
In this article about UW hiring Gervais, he talks briefly about his possible replacement. I can't think of anyone but Buddy Bland when he says, "I'm hoping it'll be someone that's worked with me in that program."
Hard to tell how Bland compares with Gervais. If he is referring to Buddy in the above quote, then Steve obviously thinks very highly of him. Judging from quotes I cited in an earlier blog I wrote about Bland, the pressure from the IHS community seemed to burn him out. While the demands at Skyline will be just as high, the community support doesn't even compare. Bland has a year around training schedule, a feeder program that runs Skyline's system, not to mention a tradition in place in which the kids coming through the system expect nothing less than a state championship.
Who knows what Skyline will decide to do. There's no doubt that Gervais will be one of many people trying to give their input. The Spartans won't settle for anything but the best, whether that means Bland or some other coach. They made a bold move when hiring Gervais from Rogers High School in the first place. It wouldn't surprise me if they did it again.
Hard to tell how Bland compares with Gervais. If he is referring to Buddy in the above quote, then Steve obviously thinks very highly of him. Judging from quotes I cited in an earlier blog I wrote about Bland, the pressure from the IHS community seemed to burn him out. While the demands at Skyline will be just as high, the community support doesn't even compare. Bland has a year around training schedule, a feeder program that runs Skyline's system, not to mention a tradition in place in which the kids coming through the system expect nothing less than a state championship.
Who knows what Skyline will decide to do. There's no doubt that Gervais will be one of many people trying to give their input. The Spartans won't settle for anything but the best, whether that means Bland or some other coach. They made a bold move when hiring Gervais from Rogers High School in the first place. It wouldn't surprise me if they did it again.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Wow...
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskies/2004258277_uwfb04.html
I certainly didn't see this coming. High School Football in the State of Washington lost probably one of the best coach's ever when Steve Gervais decided to be the running backs coach at UW.
Even though I saw Gervais win his first state championship with Eatonville in 1985, he didn't really get my attention until they ended a mini dynasty by beating Jason Dechenne and the Ephrata in 1990. In defeating Cashmere in 1985, pretty much all he did was hand it off to Brandon Jumper over and over again.
The resiliency of his teams was evident again in 1993 when Gig Harbor lost to Prosser 22-20. What was most impressive about the Tides in this game is that they were down 22-0 just before halftime, and nearly pulled out a victory.
Of course he's always going to be known for his success at Skyline. I was fortunate to be coaching at the school during this time, and was able to see him transform the program. The most memorable moment for me during his first season there was the pass play he called on fourth down. This call led to a touchdown, as well as Skyline's second victory in school history.
His success at Skyline speaks for itself, winning state championships at both the 4A and 3A level. I had the privilege of being able to watch his last game while head coach at Skyline. What was most impressive for me watching the game was the nonstop effort. Throughout the game, Skyline seemed to be over matched. Despite this, the Spartans kept battling and making O'Dea's top players fight for everything they could get. This paid off in the 4th quarter as the Irish's top players, Johri Fogerson and Ed Pelzer could barely stand up. Skyline was eventually able to overcome a 21 point deficet and win one of the best games I've ever seen.
To say that I'll miss watching Gervais' teams is about as much of an understatement as I can make. As a Dawg fan, I certainly hope he has some profound influence at Montlake that I've had the pleasure of watching the last 20+ years. Good luck, Coach Gervais.
I certainly didn't see this coming. High School Football in the State of Washington lost probably one of the best coach's ever when Steve Gervais decided to be the running backs coach at UW.
Even though I saw Gervais win his first state championship with Eatonville in 1985, he didn't really get my attention until they ended a mini dynasty by beating Jason Dechenne and the Ephrata in 1990. In defeating Cashmere in 1985, pretty much all he did was hand it off to Brandon Jumper over and over again.
The resiliency of his teams was evident again in 1993 when Gig Harbor lost to Prosser 22-20. What was most impressive about the Tides in this game is that they were down 22-0 just before halftime, and nearly pulled out a victory.
Of course he's always going to be known for his success at Skyline. I was fortunate to be coaching at the school during this time, and was able to see him transform the program. The most memorable moment for me during his first season there was the pass play he called on fourth down. This call led to a touchdown, as well as Skyline's second victory in school history.
His success at Skyline speaks for itself, winning state championships at both the 4A and 3A level. I had the privilege of being able to watch his last game while head coach at Skyline. What was most impressive for me watching the game was the nonstop effort. Throughout the game, Skyline seemed to be over matched. Despite this, the Spartans kept battling and making O'Dea's top players fight for everything they could get. This paid off in the 4th quarter as the Irish's top players, Johri Fogerson and Ed Pelzer could barely stand up. Skyline was eventually able to overcome a 21 point deficet and win one of the best games I've ever seen.
To say that I'll miss watching Gervais' teams is about as much of an understatement as I can make. As a Dawg fan, I certainly hope he has some profound influence at Montlake that I've had the pleasure of watching the last 20+ years. Good luck, Coach Gervais.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
New Enumclaw Coach
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/highschoolsports/2004245039_prepnote27.html
Being a Tahoma graduate, I'm obviously aware of several nicknames for Enumclaw High School. However, I'll try to digress and look at the big picture.
I wish their new coach good luck.
There, I said it. Let the insults continue :-).
Being a Tahoma graduate, I'm obviously aware of several nicknames for Enumclaw High School. However, I'll try to digress and look at the big picture.
I wish their new coach good luck.
There, I said it. Let the insults continue :-).
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Bummer...
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/highschoolsports/2004197657_prepnotes24.html
Franklin High has been down ever since Joe Slye stepped down. Actually it probably started before that when they joined the Kingco 4A league. In any event, I was looking forward to Watching what Mario Bailey could do with the program. Hopefully the combination of getting some fresh blood and rejoining the Metro League will pump some much needed energy back into the program.
Franklin High has been down ever since Joe Slye stepped down. Actually it probably started before that when they joined the Kingco 4A league. In any event, I was looking forward to Watching what Mario Bailey could do with the program. Hopefully the combination of getting some fresh blood and rejoining the Metro League will pump some much needed energy back into the program.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
New Kangaroo coach and ex-Seahawk
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/highschoolsports/2004155464_prepnotes31.html
On paper, it looks like a great hire. Ray Roberts is obviously a man who understands the game and has a passion for being a positive role model.
I hope the Lake Washington football program, as well the rest of the school, are on a better path now than they were a few years ago. I don't know the whole story, but it culminated in former football coach, Tim Tramp, successfully suing the school district for wrongful termination, in addition to some other issues.
There's nowhere to go but up. It doesn't appear that will be a problem for Ray Roberts. Good luck, Coach Roberts.
On paper, it looks like a great hire. Ray Roberts is obviously a man who understands the game and has a passion for being a positive role model.
I hope the Lake Washington football program, as well the rest of the school, are on a better path now than they were a few years ago. I don't know the whole story, but it culminated in former football coach, Tim Tramp, successfully suing the school district for wrongful termination, in addition to some other issues.
There's nowhere to go but up. It doesn't appear that will be a problem for Ray Roberts. Good luck, Coach Roberts.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
The Return of the Rebels!?
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/highschoolsports/2004133829_prepnotes19.html
More than likely not, although Coach Tarantola could have them playing their best ball in more than 15 years. Nothing against Juanita or their new coach, but any school that experiences the kind of success they had in the 80's should consider themselves fortunate. It isn't as if there is a revolving door and everyone gets a turn to be one of the top programs the state has ever seen (or returns to it). Years from now programs such as Bellevue, Skyline, Pasco, etc. may be perrenial bottom feeders. If you're great now, you really shouldn't take it for granted.
That being said, I'm sure that they are going to be just fine. Judging from what I've read about him, I hope he sticks around their for awhile. Good luck, Coach Tarantola.
More than likely not, although Coach Tarantola could have them playing their best ball in more than 15 years. Nothing against Juanita or their new coach, but any school that experiences the kind of success they had in the 80's should consider themselves fortunate. It isn't as if there is a revolving door and everyone gets a turn to be one of the top programs the state has ever seen (or returns to it). Years from now programs such as Bellevue, Skyline, Pasco, etc. may be perrenial bottom feeders. If you're great now, you really shouldn't take it for granted.
That being said, I'm sure that they are going to be just fine. Judging from what I've read about him, I hope he sticks around their for awhile. Good luck, Coach Tarantola.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Glacier Peak's First Coach
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/highschoolsports/2004125488_prepnotes15.html
Glacier Peak High School is going to open this fall, and their football program appears to be off to a great start. I don't know anything about Rory Rosebach, but anyone who wins 2 state championships in a state as strong as Oregon must be a pretty good coach. It looks like Oregon's loss will be Washington's gain. Good luck, Coach Rosenbach.
Glacier Peak High School is going to open this fall, and their football program appears to be off to a great start. I don't know anything about Rory Rosebach, but anyone who wins 2 state championships in a state as strong as Oregon must be a pretty good coach. It looks like Oregon's loss will be Washington's gain. Good luck, Coach Rosenbach.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Jay Turner Takes Over For Oak Harbor
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/highschoolsports/2004119082_prepnotes11.html
Head coach, Dave Ward, stepped down after holding the position for 17 years. I don't know anything about Jay Turner, but he is a hand picked successor. There is no reason to think that he isn't capable of continuing what Ward started.
I didn't see much of Ward's teams, but really liked what I saw. The most memorable game for me was when the Wildcats beat Gonzaga Prep in the semifinals last year. With nearly half of the second quarter gone, the Bullpups led 10-0 and Oak Harbor had run only 3 offensive plays in the entire game. The combination of playing on the road and having no answer for G-Prep's option, I figured the game was pretty much over. Well, Marshall Lobbestael & Co. found a way to not only stop their offense, but got the passing game going as well. In the end the undersized Oak harbor team prevailed, 14-10. They were as resiliant of a team as I've ever seen, going on to win the state championship.
This past season I thought they proved themselves not to be a "lightning in a bottle" team by having an undefeated regular season and making it all the way to the quarterfinals. I'm looking forward to seeing it continue. Good luck, Coach Turner.
Head coach, Dave Ward, stepped down after holding the position for 17 years. I don't know anything about Jay Turner, but he is a hand picked successor. There is no reason to think that he isn't capable of continuing what Ward started.
I didn't see much of Ward's teams, but really liked what I saw. The most memorable game for me was when the Wildcats beat Gonzaga Prep in the semifinals last year. With nearly half of the second quarter gone, the Bullpups led 10-0 and Oak Harbor had run only 3 offensive plays in the entire game. The combination of playing on the road and having no answer for G-Prep's option, I figured the game was pretty much over. Well, Marshall Lobbestael & Co. found a way to not only stop their offense, but got the passing game going as well. In the end the undersized Oak harbor team prevailed, 14-10. They were as resiliant of a team as I've ever seen, going on to win the state championship.
This past season I thought they proved themselves not to be a "lightning in a bottle" team by having an undefeated regular season and making it all the way to the quarterfinals. I'm looking forward to seeing it continue. Good luck, Coach Turner.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
I Guess That's That.
The last thing I heard about this situation was that some of the players for Archbishop Murphy were going to attend a meeting with the WIAA executive board. The purpose for them attending the meeting was going to try and get an amendment passed so that if a situation like theirs ever takes place again, that team will not have to forfeit their entire season and miss out on a chance to potentially play for the state championship. Whether any of this happened or not I have not heard.
In case anyone wonders what I'm referring to, Terry Ennis passed away September 12, 2007 after a battle with prostate cancer. Given the stature of Ennis and his role on the football team, the events leading up to his passing at very least had a monkey wrench thrown into them. Among the things that were overlooked was the fact that one the players on the team had a physical expire four days before Ennis passed away. As most people can imagine, there were more pressing matters at the time than an expired physical. Regardless, the violation was eventually discovered by the team which led to them immediately reporting it. Upon doing this, they were informed that there entire season would be forfeited. No problem, since that is how one has to formally respond. Archbishop Murphy then appealed to the Cascade Conference and Northwest District so they could formally explain how their coach died, which led to the minor oversight. They responded by saying Ennis should have taken care of this before he died, now go turn in your gear.
As shocking as this response was, the team had one more appeal left. Certainly the 13 member executive board of the WIAA would understand and grant them mercy. All they did was remind them to turn in their gear. Just like that their season was over. Many people weighed in with their opinions about how this was handled. Sports Illustrated even wrote an article about it. I think everyone is trying to figure out such a ridiculous ruling could be made. While everyone was trying to figure that one out, the Archbishop Murphy players were too busy responding with class.
Most people would have assummed that they would have showed up at the first playoff game that was taken from them and done some sort of protest. They went to a playoff game alright. The girls soccer team was in the semifinals, and everyone who was their said no one cheered louder than the Archbishop Murphy football players. All the while not one gripe was heard from the football team. In fact, the impression I got from the articles I've read is that the effort to get the ammendment passed is being done moreso to honor the memory of their coach rather than express bitterness over what happened. Certainly an argument can be made that I am out of line for even implying that bitterness even plays a role, however minor it may be.
From everything I've read about Coach Ennis over the years, this is exactly what he would have wanted. Congratulations, Coach. May the glory you receive in passing inspire all of us to take the high road you travelled.
In case anyone wonders what I'm referring to, Terry Ennis passed away September 12, 2007 after a battle with prostate cancer. Given the stature of Ennis and his role on the football team, the events leading up to his passing at very least had a monkey wrench thrown into them. Among the things that were overlooked was the fact that one the players on the team had a physical expire four days before Ennis passed away. As most people can imagine, there were more pressing matters at the time than an expired physical. Regardless, the violation was eventually discovered by the team which led to them immediately reporting it. Upon doing this, they were informed that there entire season would be forfeited. No problem, since that is how one has to formally respond. Archbishop Murphy then appealed to the Cascade Conference and Northwest District so they could formally explain how their coach died, which led to the minor oversight. They responded by saying Ennis should have taken care of this before he died, now go turn in your gear.
As shocking as this response was, the team had one more appeal left. Certainly the 13 member executive board of the WIAA would understand and grant them mercy. All they did was remind them to turn in their gear. Just like that their season was over. Many people weighed in with their opinions about how this was handled. Sports Illustrated even wrote an article about it. I think everyone is trying to figure out such a ridiculous ruling could be made. While everyone was trying to figure that one out, the Archbishop Murphy players were too busy responding with class.
Most people would have assummed that they would have showed up at the first playoff game that was taken from them and done some sort of protest. They went to a playoff game alright. The girls soccer team was in the semifinals, and everyone who was their said no one cheered louder than the Archbishop Murphy football players. All the while not one gripe was heard from the football team. In fact, the impression I got from the articles I've read is that the effort to get the ammendment passed is being done moreso to honor the memory of their coach rather than express bitterness over what happened. Certainly an argument can be made that I am out of line for even implying that bitterness even plays a role, however minor it may be.
From everything I've read about Coach Ennis over the years, this is exactly what he would have wanted. Congratulations, Coach. May the glory you receive in passing inspire all of us to take the high road you travelled.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Letter I wrote to the WIAA a couple of months ago
My name is Adam Slind, and I have been a fan of high school football since my father took me to my first Kingbowl in 1981. In fact, I am such a fan of high school football that most UW Husky fans I talk to do not consider me a "true dawg fan" since I am also a fan of the WSU Cougars as well. This is due to the fact that as much as I love the Dawgs, my passion for high school football leads me to root for the Cougs due to their roster containing a significant amount of players from the state of Washington. How can appreciate the performance of someone like Marshall Lobbestael and then turn around and root against him in College? No chance of that happening.
Another year is here, and the playoffs are already as exciting as ever. I first of all wanted to share how much I appreciate the WIAA for expanding the high school playoffs. When I think of some of the great high school playoff games I've seen, unfortunately something that also comes to mind are some of the great teams that didn't make the playoffs. The 2 that stand out to me are the 1984 Gonzaga team and the 1987 Interlake squad. I felt that both of those teams were among the top 5 teams in the state, neither one had a chance to prove it. The WIAA now ensures that it is possible for teams like that to challenge for the state title. I was especially excited to see Woodinville challenge for the state title 2 years ago. Before the playoffs were expanded, they would not have even gotten in. And by adding an extra week, the WIAA has made it possible for them not to burn themselves out with that 3 games in 9 days format that was so common before 2005. I look at the brackets now and am very pleased to see the 4A include 3 teams with 4 losses and 4 teams with 3, and the 3A include 3 teams with 4 losses and 3 teams with 3. This is something that would not have been possible 15 years ago. Now teams that either play in tough conferences or take a little longer to jell will no longer have to suffer the consequences of that.
That being said, though, there does seem to be some room for improvement. In looking at the brackets I can't help but notice that several teams from the same league are either playing each other in the first round (Bellevue vs. Newport & Kennewick vs. Kamiakin in the 3A) or will have eliminated themselves by the quarterfinals (the bottom quarter of the 4A bracket includes 3 teams from the Wesco). In my opinion it would be much more exciting to spread the teams out more and make it so teams do not have to play each other until it is mathmatically neccesary. For example, if a league has 6 teams that qualify for postseason play then they would not be forced to play each other until the quarterfinals. If a league has 3 teams, then they wouldn't have to play until the semifinals. The Wesco, for example, has 5 teams in the round of 16. The way those teams are bracketed, it is impossible for all 5 of them to make it to the quarterfinals and for more than 3 to get to the semis. Spreading them out more could not only give a better perspective of who the top leagues in the state are, but also ensure that the teams are progressing according to their level of play. Kamiakin & Kennewick could very be the 2 worst teams in the field of 16, but one of them is certain to make it to the quarterfinals. One the other hand Cascade, Snohomish, and Edmonds-Woodway could be the top 3 teams in the state but only one of them has a chance to make it to the semifinals. Please know that I do not have a dog in this fight. I do not care who the best team or league is. I would just like to see a format that is more indicative of showing who that actually is.
Something else that could be improved upon is the seeding of teams. I realize the format is decided upon long before the season ever starts, but it sure would be nice to see the teams who are presumably the best teams in the state not meeting until they have to. The most obvious example of what I'm referring to is the matchup between Skyline and Lakes in the first round of the 3A tournament. I think most people are disapointed that matchup cannot take place in December. Perhaps having the AP rank the 32 teams that qualify for the tournament could provide an oppurtunity for this. If there is still a mid-week play-in that takes place (as is the case with the SPSL and Seamount league), then the winner of that game can automatically be the 32nd seed. Something like this could easily cancel out the suggestion made in the previous paragraph, so it may be a vain point. Given the choice, I think it would be much more beneficial to spread the leagues out than put too much emphasis on an AP poll. Most of the people who vote in that poll have not seen a majority of the teams play.
Lastly, I was wondering if something could be done about home field advantage in the playoffs. I think a neutral site for the game would not only improve the chances of determining who the better team is, but also limit the travel done by one of the teams. As great as the 9 overtime playoff game between Bothell and Pasco was last year, I can't help but think that Bothell had the advantage in that game playing at Pop Keeney stadium that they wouldn't have had in some place like Longview. In 2004 I couldn't help be feel sorry for all those Evergreen fans who had to travel all the way to Spokane for the semifinals. Having the game at Lampson stadium in Kennewick would've not only shortened travel time, but also made for safer trip back home. I wouldn't change anything about having the title games in the Tacoma Dome. That's a standard that shouldn't be touched.
As I said earlier, the WIAA has made some tremendous changes in the last few years that are very beneficial. So encouraged I am be your vision, that I'm inspired to write this e-mail. Regardless of what the WIAA thinks of this of my suggestions, I look forward to cheering on high school football for the rest of my life and appreciate everything you do to make the experience as positive as possible.
Sincerely,
Adam B. Slind
Another year is here, and the playoffs are already as exciting as ever. I first of all wanted to share how much I appreciate the WIAA for expanding the high school playoffs. When I think of some of the great high school playoff games I've seen, unfortunately something that also comes to mind are some of the great teams that didn't make the playoffs. The 2 that stand out to me are the 1984 Gonzaga team and the 1987 Interlake squad. I felt that both of those teams were among the top 5 teams in the state, neither one had a chance to prove it. The WIAA now ensures that it is possible for teams like that to challenge for the state title. I was especially excited to see Woodinville challenge for the state title 2 years ago. Before the playoffs were expanded, they would not have even gotten in. And by adding an extra week, the WIAA has made it possible for them not to burn themselves out with that 3 games in 9 days format that was so common before 2005. I look at the brackets now and am very pleased to see the 4A include 3 teams with 4 losses and 4 teams with 3, and the 3A include 3 teams with 4 losses and 3 teams with 3. This is something that would not have been possible 15 years ago. Now teams that either play in tough conferences or take a little longer to jell will no longer have to suffer the consequences of that.
That being said, though, there does seem to be some room for improvement. In looking at the brackets I can't help but notice that several teams from the same league are either playing each other in the first round (Bellevue vs. Newport & Kennewick vs. Kamiakin in the 3A) or will have eliminated themselves by the quarterfinals (the bottom quarter of the 4A bracket includes 3 teams from the Wesco). In my opinion it would be much more exciting to spread the teams out more and make it so teams do not have to play each other until it is mathmatically neccesary. For example, if a league has 6 teams that qualify for postseason play then they would not be forced to play each other until the quarterfinals. If a league has 3 teams, then they wouldn't have to play until the semifinals. The Wesco, for example, has 5 teams in the round of 16. The way those teams are bracketed, it is impossible for all 5 of them to make it to the quarterfinals and for more than 3 to get to the semis. Spreading them out more could not only give a better perspective of who the top leagues in the state are, but also ensure that the teams are progressing according to their level of play. Kamiakin & Kennewick could very be the 2 worst teams in the field of 16, but one of them is certain to make it to the quarterfinals. One the other hand Cascade, Snohomish, and Edmonds-Woodway could be the top 3 teams in the state but only one of them has a chance to make it to the semifinals. Please know that I do not have a dog in this fight. I do not care who the best team or league is. I would just like to see a format that is more indicative of showing who that actually is.
Something else that could be improved upon is the seeding of teams. I realize the format is decided upon long before the season ever starts, but it sure would be nice to see the teams who are presumably the best teams in the state not meeting until they have to. The most obvious example of what I'm referring to is the matchup between Skyline and Lakes in the first round of the 3A tournament. I think most people are disapointed that matchup cannot take place in December. Perhaps having the AP rank the 32 teams that qualify for the tournament could provide an oppurtunity for this. If there is still a mid-week play-in that takes place (as is the case with the SPSL and Seamount league), then the winner of that game can automatically be the 32nd seed. Something like this could easily cancel out the suggestion made in the previous paragraph, so it may be a vain point. Given the choice, I think it would be much more beneficial to spread the leagues out than put too much emphasis on an AP poll. Most of the people who vote in that poll have not seen a majority of the teams play.
Lastly, I was wondering if something could be done about home field advantage in the playoffs. I think a neutral site for the game would not only improve the chances of determining who the better team is, but also limit the travel done by one of the teams. As great as the 9 overtime playoff game between Bothell and Pasco was last year, I can't help but think that Bothell had the advantage in that game playing at Pop Keeney stadium that they wouldn't have had in some place like Longview. In 2004 I couldn't help be feel sorry for all those Evergreen fans who had to travel all the way to Spokane for the semifinals. Having the game at Lampson stadium in Kennewick would've not only shortened travel time, but also made for safer trip back home. I wouldn't change anything about having the title games in the Tacoma Dome. That's a standard that shouldn't be touched.
As I said earlier, the WIAA has made some tremendous changes in the last few years that are very beneficial. So encouraged I am be your vision, that I'm inspired to write this e-mail. Regardless of what the WIAA thinks of this of my suggestions, I look forward to cheering on high school football for the rest of my life and appreciate everything you do to make the experience as positive as possible.
Sincerely,
Adam B. Slind
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