Kent Valley Preps

FOOTBALL: Shepard joins Enumclaw staff

Erick Walker — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 03:23:01 +0000

Football coach Mike Shepard, who was let go by Kentlake in December, is back in the game once again.
Shepard, who spent four years at the helm of the Kentlake program, recently joined the football coaching staff at Enumclaw High, where he will oversee the defensive line and assist with the offensive line.
“In the last couple weeks (during passing camps), I have learned that there are a lot of ways to do the job,” Shepard said. “If there’s a silver lining to the cloud, it’s that I am reinvigorated.”
Shepard posted a 14-26 record at Kentlake. The Falcons missed the postseason by a single win in each of the last two seasons. While Shepard will assist at Enumclaw, he will continue to teach AP History, AP Government, and AP Psychology at Kentlake.
“The nice thing is, it’s a short commute,” Shepard noted. “I am enjoying myself a great deal.”

RECREATION CALENDAR, JULY 21

Erick Walker — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 22:51:16 +0000

BASEBALL
KENT PARKS PRO BASEBALLCAMP
This camp for players ages 8-13 is set for Aug. 16-19 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. each day at Wilson Playfields on Kent’s East Hill. It will include instruction in throwing, hitting and fielding, with game situations and scrimmaging, all under the direction of former pro player and Atlanta Braves scout Steve Goucher. The cost is $129. More information: Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000.
TRIPLE PLAY BASEBALL CLUB
Players ages 12-18 with a passion for baseball and a desire to take their game to the next level are invited to a workout with Triple Play baseball Club. More information: (253) 249-9359.
SHARP BASEBALL DEVELOPMENT
Athletes are being accepted for upcoming programs. Private and group lessons in hitting and advanced infield, as well as strength and conditioning programs are available. More information: (425) 306-0814.
EVERGREEN STATE SPORTS
Team facility rental requests are being accepted. Options include rental only, or team training provided by Coach Embery. Limited time slots are available. More information on all of the above is available by contacting Coach Embery at (253) 218-9713.
BASEBALL JAZZ
Professional lessons, camps and coaches clinics are being offered by former Atlanta Braves scout Steve Goucher and the Jazz staff. More information: (206) 230-9011, or online at www.baseballjazz.com, or e-mail to goucher15@hotmail.com.

BASKETBALL
KENT PARKS JUNIOR HOOPSTERS PROGRAM
This instructional program is for boys and girls entering grades 1-2, and is scheduled for Mondays, Sept. 27-Oct. 25, at Kent Commons. Players will have a choice of two sessions: 5:30-6:30 p.m., or 6:30-7:30 p.m. The focus is on fundamentals and fun. The cost is $35, and the registration deadline is Aug. 23. VOLUNTEER COACHES ARE NEEDED. More information: Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000.

FISHING
FLY FISHING PUGET SOUND BEACHES
Cutthroat, resident salmon and migrating salmon can be taken on flies from Puget Sound beaches. The class is two sessions: Tuesday, Aug. 10, in the classroom at the Kent Senior Activity Center from 6:30-8:30 p.m., and Saturday, Aug. 14, on the beach. The cost is $69. More information: Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000.

W. WASHINGTON WALLEYE CLUB
The club meets the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. behind and below the Green Acres Learning Center, 1826 S. 240th St. (just past Highline Community College). Guests are always welcome. More information: (253) 852-3296 or http://walleye-club.com or P.O. Box 4204, Kent, 98032, or e-mail: sports@foxinternet.net.

NORTHWEST BASSMASTERS
The club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Bellefield Office Park Complex Center, 1150 114th Ave. S.E. in Bellevue. More information: Kirk Bain at (425) 922-3469.

FLAG FOOTBALL
KENT PARKS YOUTH PROGRAM
This program is for players who live within the city of Kent or within the Kent School District boundaries in unincorporated King County who will be entering grades 4-7 in the fall. Leagues will be for grades 4-5 and 6-7. Games and practices are at Wilson Playfields. The season runs from October through mid November. The cost is $40 per player, and the registration deadline is Aug. 23. More information: Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000.

GOLF
RIVERBEND AMATEUR
The 17^th annual tournament is set for Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 14-15, at Riverbend Golf Course in Kent. The entry fee s $165 per player. More information: Riverbend at (253) 854-3673.

HOCKEY
BEGINNERS PROGRAM
The Sno-King Junior Thunderbirds will offer a year-round, beginners-level program for boys and girls ages 5-10. No skating experience is necessary. The program will be on Saturdays at Castle Ice in the Renton Highlands, or at Kingsgate Ice Arena in Kirkland. Players are welcome to join at any time. More information: online at www.snokinghockey.com.

GYMNASTICS
GYM STARZ PROGRAMS
This Kent gym offers a STARLETS GIRLS NOVICE program for ages 5-9 on Tuesdays from 4-4:55 p.m. and with the next session set for Aug 3-24 (4-4:55 only). The cost is $65. Thursday sessions will be offered Aug. 5-26 from 11-11:55 a.m. The cost is $65. A SUPER STARZ BOYS NOVICE program for ages 5-9 is offered on Tuesdays from 4-4:55 p.m. Aug. 3-24. The cost is $65. Gym Starz is located at 21440 68^th Ave. So., Suite 107, in Kent. More information: Gym Starz at (253) 639-9339 or Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000.

ICE SKATING
LEARN TO SKATE CLASSES
An eight-week series with group and private lessons for boys, girls and adults is being offered at KENT VALLEY ICE CENTRE. Instruction is based on criteria set forth by the Ice Skating Institute. Skating classes are a solid starting point for those interested in figure skating or hockey. The facility is located at 6015 S. 240th St. in Kent. More information: (253) 850-2400, ext. 19, or online at www.FamilyNightOut.com.

OFFICIATING
KENT PARKS
New and experienced officials are needed for soccer, flag football, basketball, volleyball, and umpires are needed for baseball and fastpitch. Applicants must be age 14 or older. More information: Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000.

SOCCER
KENT PARKS YOUTH LEAGUES
These league are for boys and girls who will be entering grade 2-6 in the fall, and who live either within the Kent city limits, or within Kent School District boundaries in unincorporated King County. Games are 11-v-11, with practices on weeknights and games primarily on weekends at local fields from mid September through Nov. 2. Leagues are separated by gender and grade level. The cost is $40 per player, and the registration deadline is Aug. 2.
COED LEAGUES for pre-K and K-1 also will be offered. Pre-K games are 5-v-5, and players must be at least 3 years old by Aug. 31, 2010. The K-1 games are 8-v-8, and players must currently be enrolled in kindergarten or Grade 1, and be at least 5 years old by Aug. 31, 2010. The cost is $40 per player, and the registration deadline is Aug. 2. More information: Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000.

TENNIS
KENT PARKS DAY CAMP
This camp for boys and girls ages 5-17 will be offered throughout the summer on a Monday-through-Thursday basis at Kentridge High School. Campers will be placed in groups according to skill levels. The final session for ages 5-7 (9-10:30 a.m.) and 8-17 (10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.) is Aug. 8-12. An additional session for players age 8-17 (9 a.m.-noon) is Aug. 2-5. The cost is $55 for ages 5-7 and $98 for ages 8-17. The instructor is USPTA-certified pro Steve Walters. More information: Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000.

KENT PARKS YOUTH AND ADULT LESSONS
Lessons will be offered for beginners (ages 6-10, and ages 11-14) and beginner-intermediate (ages 15-adult) throughout the summer at Garrison Creek Park on Kent’s East Hill, and at Kent-Meridian High School and taught by USPTA-certified pro Steve Walters. Two lessons per week over the course of four weeks for a total of eight lessons will be offered in each session. Lessons are 60 minutes each, with a four-week session starting Aug. 3, additional sessions for ages 11-14 and 15-adult starting Sept. 7, and a final session for ages 11-14 starting Oct. 5. Beginner age 6-10 meet from 4:30-5:30 p.m.; beginners age 11-14 meet form 5:30-6:30 p.m., and beginner-intermediates age 15-adult meet from 6:30-7:30 p.m. The cost per four-week session is $60. More information: Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000.

TRIATHLON
TRIATHLON TRAINING
These swim and run workouts are for athletes age 18 and older. Participants must be able to swim 100 yards without stopping. Wet suits are mandatory to swim in deep water or along the buoy line. Running workouts will take place around Lake Meridian and on the Soos Creek Trail. Sessions are scheduled for Wednesdays, from now through Aug. 25, from 6:15-8 p.m. at Lake Meridian Park. Costs are $120 for nine workouts, $84 for six workouts, and $15 on a drop-in basis. More information: Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000. Bike training opportunities will be available. Details can be found online at www.weraisethebar.com. Registration for the training sessions also can be completed on that Web site.

VOLLEYBALL
KENT PARKS ADULT LEAGUES
Leagues are offered three times throughout the year: Fall (September-December), Winter (January-March) and Spring (April-May). Levels of play are Tuesday Night Open, Tuesday Night Coed and Wednesday Night Women. All matches are played at Kent Commons. More information: Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000.

PAT POWERS CLINIC
These two-day clinics are for players age 13 to adult. Among the topics covered are putting spin on the ball to increase control, how to snap a ball instead of hitting it, and how to put ‘pop’ onto serves. The clinics are set for Aug. 9-10 and Dec. 11-12 at Kent Commons. The cost is $140. More information: Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000.

KENT PARKS GIRLS LEAGUES
These leagues are for girls in grades 7-12 who live within the Kent city limits or within Kent School District boundaries in unincorporated King County. Practices are on weeknights beginning in late September, and the season concludes in early December. Leagues will be for grades 7-8 and 9-12, with matches played in local gyms. The cost is $45 per player, and the registration deadline is Sept. 1. More information: Kent Parks at (253) 856-5000.

Hague named Eastern League All-Star

Erick Walker — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 22:09:48 +0000

Things are coming together quite nicely for Kentwood product Matt Hague, who was selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 9th round of the 2008 draft.

Hague, who was moved from third base to first base shortly after getting drafted, is playing for Pittsburgh’s Double-A affiliate, the Altoona Curve of the Eastern League.

On July 14, Hague played in his first professional All-Star game. Hague was named to the Western Division’s All-Star team of the Eastern League. The West knocked off the East 10-3. Hague went 0-for-2 in the game, but has otherwise enjoyed a standout year.

The 24-year-old slugger, a 2004 Kentwood High graduate who was drafted out of Oklahoma State University, entered the week hitting .304 with 9 home runs and 54 RBIs in 306 at-bats. In addition, Hague has walked more times (39) than he has struck out (37).

I put in a call to Hague about an hour ago and am hoping to hear back from him at some point this weekend. Those numbers are pretty impressive. Hague’s on a pretty good path to the major leagues. In fact, it’s relatively common for players to skip Triple-A altogether and move straight to The Show. If Hague’s production continues, and the Pirates continue to falter at the major league level, a September callup could be in store for the Kent native. It’s certainly worth tuning in to.

Matt Hague

KENT’S THACH, MOSE TO ATTEND TOP GUN ALL-STAR CAMP

Erick Walker — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 23:58:19 +0000

Auburn Mountainivew High running back Visa Thach and Kent-Meridian linebacker Joseph Mose were recently invited — and will attend — the nation’s top prep football all-star camp, Football University’s Top Gun at the Warhill Sports Complex in Williamsburg, Va. from July 21-24. Top Gun is the culmination of Football University’s 28-camp nationwide tour gathering the most elite performers from across the United States. Nearly 1,000 prep football players from around the nation will be taking part in the camp, which will feature approximately 100 former NFL players and coaches.

WOMEN’S FOOTBALL: Wilson, Team USA advance to gold-medal round

Erick Walker — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 02:33:56 +0000

Last week, Adrienne Wilson of the Seattle Majestics noted that making the USA Football’s Women’s National team provided her a chance of the lifetime.
This week, Wilson and Team USA have made good on that chance of a lifetime, winning back-to-back games to advance to a gold-medal showdown against Team Canada.
Team USA throttled Austria 63-0 to open the six-team, week-long tournament in Stockholm, Sweden. Wilson, a wide receiver, pulled in a 2-point conversion in the victory. Team USA continued to dominate on Thursday, ripping Finland 72-0. Team USA will play Canada for the gold medal at 7 p.m. on Saturday in Stockholm for the championship. Canada opened the tournament with a 12-6 victory over Sweden, then upended Germany 20-12.

SLOTS OPEN FOR 3-ON-3 SHOWARE SHOOTOUT

Erick Walker — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:54:26 +0000

I talked with ShoWare Shootout 3-on-3 tournament promoter Steve Turcotte earlier today to see how his trip this past weekend to the Spokane Hoopfest went.
His response?
“Unbelievable,” Turcotte said. “It’s insane.”
Indeed. But it’s what Turcotte followed with that got me thinking.
“There’s absolutely no reason we can’t do that here in Kent,” Turcotte said of the Spokane event, which brings in roughly 5,000 teams and 25,000 players each year for the tournament.
Which is exactly what Turcotte is trying to pull off with the ShoWare Shootout 3-on-3 tournament slated for Aug. 7-8. No, it’s not going to be 25,000 players deep this year, but who knows, maybe in the future it will be. Right now, the goal is for 150 teams. And while slots are filling up, there is space available teams looking to compete.

What I love about the concept of this tournament is the fact that anybody can take part in it … even an out-of-shape scrub like myself. Unfortunately, I will be out of town that particular weekend at my 11-year-old son’s baseball tournament. Despite being out of town, I’m excited to see how the first-year event turns out. Turcotte noted that there’s still space available to sign up, but time is running out. Teams have until Aug. 1 to sign up for the tournament. If your team registers by July 10, the team fee is only $50. For a four-game guarantee, that’s a pretty good deal. After that, the fee is $100 per team.

What three people would I like to see form a team?
Hmmmm … how about a team comprised of Kentridge’s Gary Bell, Kentwood’s Joshua Smith and Kent-Meridian’s D’juan Miller? For the record, I love watching Miller play. On the girls side, how about Kentwood’s Kylie Huerta, good friend Morganne Comstock and K-M’s Briana Shannon? Or, how about Kentwood’s three top female players during the past five years — Huerta, Lindsey Moore (Nebraska) and Courtney Vandersloot (Gonzaga). Now that’s a team I’d put money on.

I’d love to hear from those who are going to compete or who have the “perfect” team in mind.
For more on the tournament, go online to www.showareshootout.com

TRACK: Kentwood girls heading to Nike Nationals

Erick Walker — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 23:21:18 +0000

The prep track and field season may be over for most, but it will continue for a select group of Kentwood High girls who were chosen to compete in the Nike Track Nationals Meet, which is slated for Friday (July 2).
The meet, which will take place at Hayward Field on the University of Oregon campus in Eugene, is being billed as the national championship for high school track and field. The top 12 boys and top 12 girls programs from around the country were invited to take part in the event. Kentwood, which finished sixth at state last month, is the top-ranked girls team in the Northwest. Rankings are based on individual results in 10 events.
Making the trip for the Conquerors will be Holly DeHart (100, long jump), Dana Wareham (400 meter), Aiesha Goodlow (100 hurdles), Megan McNally (800), Beth Parrish (pole vault), Alyx Toeaina (throws), and Carly Horn (high jump).
Nike is flying in all 24 teams that will be taking part in the event.
“It’s really a huge honor,” said Kentwood coach Steve Roche. “There are only 24 teams in the nation that are being asked to do this. It’s really a pretty sweet deal.”

GOLF: SWGA City Championship Final Results

Erick Walker — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 04:15:44 +0000

SWGA CITY CHAMPIONSHIP AT MERIDIAN VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB

Championship Flight: Leslie Folsom (Rainier) def. Mimi Racicot (Rainier) 4&2

First Flight: Ann Johnson (Meridian Valley) def.Linda Warson (Sahalee) 6&5

Second Flight: Gayle Colello (Rainier) def. Claudia Robbs (Overlake) 2 up

Third Flight: Barbara Tracy (Bear Creek) def. Sharon Falkner (Meridian Valley) 4&3

Fourth Flight: Susie Arkell (Rainier) def. Mary O’Donnell (Overlake) 6&4

Fifth Flight: Sarah Finkenstaedt (Seattle) def. Dodie Fizsimmons (Meridian Valley) 3&2

Sixth Flight: Mickey Nojima (Plateau) def. Pam Costner (Meridian Valley) 3&2

Seventh Flight: Judy Rodia (Glen Acres) def. Janet Benson (Plateau) 2 up

Eighth Flight: Kathy Rucker (Meridian Valley) def. Linda Pearson (Meridian Valley) 21 holes

Ninth Flight: Denise Owen (Sahalee) def. Margaret Campbell (Bear Creek) 3&1

Tenth Flight: Peggy Stahl (Twin Lakes) def. Shari Brindle (Seattle) 3&2

Eleventh Flight: Porsche Everson (Glen Acres) def. Sally Irvine (Rainier) 7&6

GOLF: SWGA results, Day 3

Erick Walker — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 02:36:59 +0000

At Meridian Valley Country Club

CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT: Leslie Folsom def. Sharon Drummey 1 up; Anne Carr def. Sue Hubbard 5&4; Mimi Racicot def. Ruth Pardey 8&7; Sue Ursino def. Jeanne Link 3&2

FIRST FLIGHT Linda Selegue def. Patti Knight 2 & 1; Ann Johnson def. Kim Hong 6&4; Marge Rider def. Carol Bartholomay 2&1; Linda Warson def. Crystal Baker 3&1

SECOND FLIGHT: Claudia Robbs def. Janice Japar 5&3; Margaret Smith def. Kara Zitsman 2&1; Gayle Colello def. Bobby Sours 1 up; Kathy Provazek def. Eri Griffin 3&1

THIRD FLIGHT: Barbara Tracy def. Jennifer Schumpp 6&4; Mary Guay def. Jee Woo 19 holes; Joanie Fox def. Deni Sutherland 1 up: Sharon Falkner def. Cyndie Boe 1 up

FOURTH FLIGHT: Mary O’Donnell def. Cheryl Breidenbach 2&1; Karen Hansen def. Hallie Marks 2&1; Debbie Slatt def. Mary Dedomenico 2&1; Susie Arkell def. Linda Tungsvik 2&1

FIFTH FLIGHT: Dodie Fitzsimmons def. Rachel Hoch 5&4; Charlie Gele def. Celia Ingram 3&1; Chris Hughes def. Yuki Chikamuara 4&3; Sarah Finkenstaedt def. Kathleen Walker 4&3

SIXTH FLIGHT: Pam Costner def. Judy Thompson 3&2; Doris Rogers def. Cheryl Lienesch 1 up; Joan Hodges def. Mary Gleason 6&5; Mickey Nojima def. Carol Toschi 6&4

SEVENTH FLIGHT: Cathy Bachmann def. Mitzi Shimizu 3&2; Janet Benson def. Roxanne Koch 3&2; Judy Rodia def. Carol Artz 23 holes; Merrily Pettibone def. Nancy Carson 19 holes

EIGHTH FLIGHT: Kathy Rucker def. Bert Winther 2&1; Beth Velling def. Susan Goddard 20^th hole; Marta Lindgren def. Maralee Leland 1 up: Linda Pearson def. Kathy Solberg 1 up

NINTH FLIGHT: Margaret Campbell def. Linda Wilson 1 up; Diane Taniguchi def. Maxine Adametz 4&2; Denise Owen def. Molly O’Grady 3&2; Tracy Quigley def. Linda Wheat 4&3

TENTH FLIGHT: Shari Brindle def. Annette Southey 5&3; Janet Olson def. Lilly Tokita 7&6; Vicki Lee def. Linda Abbott 1 up; Peggy Stahl def Carol Berlin 6&4

ELEVENTH FLIGHT: Trisha Morton def. Gerene Holt 19^th hole; Sally Irvine def Sholpan Belbayev 1 up

BASKETBALL: Auburn Summer League Scores

Erick Walker — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:08:39 +0000

AUBURN SUMMER LEAGUE BASKETBALL SCORES
Kentlake – 60 Enumclaw – 55 O.T.
Rogers – 54 Jefferson – 44

Kent-Meridian – 75   Bonney Lake – 61
Todd Beamer – 66   Vashon – 25
Cascade Christian – 62   Tahoma – 47
Kentwood – 50   Sumner – 20
Kentridge – 60   Hazen – 56   O.T.
Federal Way – 82   White River – 20
Auburn – 46   Riverside – 38
Bellermine Prep – 60   Emerald Ridge – 41

SWGA City Championship continues at Meridian Valley

Erick Walker — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 17:35:32 +0000

Seattle Women’s Golf Association City Championship at Meridian Valley Country Club

Today’s Schedule (Top two flights listed only)

CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT
Leslie Folsom vs. Sharon Drummey (1 up), 9 a.m.
Sue Hubbard (1 up) vs. Anne Carr (2 & 1), 9:07 a.m.
Mimi Racicot (4 & 2) vs. Ruth Pardey (1 up), 9:15 a.m.
Jeanne Link (5 & 3) vs. Sue Ursino (5 & 4), 9:22 a.m.

SECOND FLIGHT
Jeni Japer (4 & 3) vs. Claudia Robbs (3 & 2), 11 a.m.
Margaret Smith (1 up) vs. Kara Zitsman (4 & 2), 11:07 a.m.
Gayle Colello (1 up) vs. Bobby Sours (3 & 1), 11:15 a.m.
Eri Griffin (4 & 2) vs. Kathy Provozak (1 up), 11:22 a.m.

MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL: KW’s Hague drives in four

Erick Walker — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 19:14:02 +0000

Matt Hague can still swing it.
The 2004 Kentwood High graduate who was a ninth-round selection by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2008, is still delivering at the plate. Hague, who plays for the Pittsburgh’s Double-A affiliate, the Altoona Curve, established a new career high in RBIs in a game last Friday night in a 10-2 victory over the New Britain Rock Cats. Hague went 2-for-4 with two runs scored, a home run and the four RBIs in the win.
Since being selected in the ninth round out of Oklahoma State University, the organization has moved from third base to first base. The 6-foot-3, 225-pound righthander entered the week batting .300 with 5 home runs and 33 RBIs. He also has walked more times (27) than he has struck out (26).

SWGA CITY CHAMPIONSHIP PAIRINGS

Erick Walker — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 17:23:33 +0000

SWGA CITY CHAMPIONSHIP PAIRINGS
At Meridian Valley Country Club

June 14, 2010
Time   Tee    Name
8:00 1   Hoch , Rachel   8:00   1   Benson , Janet   8:00   1   Fitzsimmons, Dodi   8:00   1   BYE
8:00 10   Campbell , Margaret   8:00   10   Irvine , Sally   8:00   10   Brindle, Shari   8:00   10   BYE

8:10 1 Folsom , Leslie 8:10 1 Racicot , Mimi 8:10 1 Ursino , Sue 8:10 1 Carr , Anne
8:10 10 Sutherland , Deni 8:10 10 Fox , Joanie 8:10 10 Woo , Jee 8:10 10 Baker , Crystal

8:20 1 Johnson , Ann 8:20 1 Warson , Linda 8:20 1 Zitsman , Kara 8:20 1 Drummey , Sharon
8:20 10 Chikamura , Yuki 8:20 10 Tungsvik , Linda 8:20 10 O’Donnell , Mary 8:20 10 Slatt , Debbie

8:30 1 Hubbard , Sue 8:30 1 Bartholomay , Carol 8:30 1 Japar , Janice 8:30 1 Rider , Marge
8:30 10 Finkenstaedt , Sara 8:30 10 Hansen , Karen 8:30 10 Hughes , Chris 8:30 10 Arkell , Susie

8:40 1 Link , Jeanne 8:40 1 Colello , Gayle 8:40 1 Hong , Kim 8:40 1 Schumpp , Jennifer
8:40 10 Gele , Charlie 8:40 10 Walker , Kathleen 8:40 10 Ingram , Celia 8:40 10 Dedomenico , Mary

8:50 1 Smith , Margaret 8:50 1 Robbs , Claudia 8:50 1 Sours , Bobby 8:50 1 Selegue , Linda
8:50 10 Breidenbach , Cheryl 8:50 10 Marks , Hallie 8:50 10 Nojima , Mickey 8:50 10 Rodia , Judy

9:00 1 Griffin , Eri 9:00 1 Pardey , Ruth 9:00 1 Knight , Patty 9:00 1 Provazek , Kathy
9:00 10 Costner , Pam 9:00 10 Thompson , Judy 9:00 10 Artz , Carol 9:00 10 Rogers , Doris

9:10 1 Guay , Mary 9:10 1 Tracy , Barbara 9:10 1 Falkner , Sharon 9:10 1 Boe , Cyndie
9:10 10 Hodges , Joan 9:10 10 Carson , Nancy 9:10 10 Shimizu, Misty 9:10 10 Bachmann , Cathy

9:20 1 Gleason , Mary 9:20 1 Koch, Roxanne 9:20 1 Lienesch , Cheryl 9:20 1 Pettibone , Merrily
9:20 10 Adametz , Maxine 9:20 10 Wilson , Linda 9:20 10 O’Grady , Molly 9:20 10 Olson , Janet

9:30 1 Toschi , Carol 9:30 1 Owen , Denise 9:30 1 Pearson , Linda 9:30 1 Taniguchi , Diane
9:30 10 Goddard , Susan 9:30 10 Abbott , Linda 9:30 10 Baush , Carol 9:30 10 Southey , Annette

9:40 1 Leland , Maralee 9:40 1 Lindgren , Marta 9:40 1 Winther , Bert 9:40 1 Solberg , Kathy
9:40 10 Everson , Porsche 9:40 10 Morton , Trisha 9:40 10 Lee , Vicki 9:40 10 Stahl , Peggy

9:50 1 Velling , Beth 9:50 1 Rucker , Kathy 9:50 1 Quigley , Tracy 9:50 1 Wheat , Linda
9:50 10 Holt , Gerene 9:50 10 Tokita , Lilly 9:50 10 Berlin , Carol 9:50 10 Belbayev , Sholpan

Pedaling for peanut butter

Erick Walker — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 23:02:53 +0000

Now here’s a story I think we all can get behind.

Kent’s Martin “Mitch” Mitchell, 57, will be taking part in the Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic on July 17-18. This will be Mitchell’s first crack at the 200-mile trek down south. In light of that, he decided to do it for a good cause. Mitchell will be “Pedaling for Peanut Butter” donations.

Through his efforts, the Kent native is hoping to raise 2,500 jars of peanut butter, which will be donated to Northwest Harvest. Northwest Harvest, which is a statewide hunger relief agency, then will disperse the jars to individuals and families in need. Signs by Tomorrow is sponsoring the event for Mitchell. Donations can be dropped off at Lucky Cup Coffee (1513 W. Meeker St.) or Signs by Tomorrow (2205 68th Ave. S).

We will be hearing more from Mitchell and about his cause in the coming weeks.

RUGBY: Crusaders win pair at national tournament

Erick Walker — Wed, 26 May 2010 23:48:01 +0000

The Kent Crusaders girls rugby team stumbled briefly at this past weekend’s national tournament in Salt Lake City, Utah, but finished with a bang.
The Crusaders opened with a narrow 10-7 loss to Divine Savior Holy Angel of Milwaukee. Divine Savior went on to take the title from the eight-team tournament, which included the nation’s best teams.
Raechel Buoy accounted for all of Kent’s scores in the loss, delivering two on a conversion and the other five on a try.
Kent, however, bounced back in a big way, throttling Lowland of Utah 45-0. Scores for Kent came from Katie Humphreys (10), Kelsie Saalfeld (7) Shelby Mastroianni (5), Savanah Benson (5), Buoy (6, all on conversions) and Jerilynn Peko (5).
The Crusaders finished the tournament with a solid 17-5 win over West Carroll of Maryland. Buoy led the way with seven points followed by Peko (5), and Devon Vieira (5).
The Crusaders wrapped up the season with a 27-4 overall record.
“It was a great trip,” said coach Rex Norris. “The girls played exceptional.”

Taking Athlete of the Year nominations

Erick Walker — Sat, 22 May 2010 01:03:06 +0000

We’re closing in on the final weekend of prep sports, which means that in the next few weeks that we’ll be selecting our Male and Female Athletes of the Year along with a Coach of the Year for both genders. As some of you might know, here at The Reporter, we select Athletes of the Year at the end of every spring. A story about the athlete generally comes out two weeks or so after the state tournament, and I generally write a sidebar highlighting the other nominations.
Mick White and the gang at Kent Valley Sports already have started a post on the sports forum page in regards to an Athlete of the Year for the SPSL. The thread (and the site) has some good stuff and is certainly worth bookmarking.
I jumped in on the thread on KVS and would like to continue it a bit here, though rather than an Athlete of the Year in the SPSL, I’m looking for athletes who call Kent-Meridian, Kentlake, Kentridge, Kentwood home or Tahoma home. I include Tahoma because the Maple Valley Reporter also will present an Athlete of the Year at the same time we do here in Kent. And I suspect I will be assisting with that as well.

Selecting an Athlete of the Year is never an easy task. During my King County Journal (South County Journal) days, we always strived to find an athlete who stood out in three sports. There are fewer and fewer these days. In addition, generally one athlete rises to the top. So who is it this year?
I can’t say as I’ve come to any concrete conclusion.
Kentwood’s Max Manthou is probably our frontrunner for boys. Max hasn’t won his fourth state title yet (and fifth overall), but it’s likely going to happen. And as KW athletic director JoAnne Daughtry said to me, “Who wins five state titles?”
What other boys have stood out? KVS has a solid list, including Josh Smith (KW), Derrick Daigre (K-M) and David Jones (K-M) among others. Smith was awesome at the end of the basketball season, leading KW to a state basketball title. However, I’d have a hard time selecting an athlete who competed in just one sport, unless he/she won multiple state titles in that particular athletic venue.

And what about the girls?
Melanie Vertrees was a relatively easy choice for girls last year, and KW’s Jessie Genger was the logical selection the year before.
This year?
It’s not as cut and dry.

I’d love to hear any thoughts, so chime in and let’s generate a list.

GIRLS TENNIS: WCD results, Day 1

Erick Walker — Fri, 21 May 2010 22:32:08 +0000

Girls Team Results (Day 1)
1. Olympia and Decatur-8
3. (tie) Auburn, Thomas Jefferson, and Central Kitsap-6
6. (tie) Kentwood and Tahoma-4
8. (tie) Kentridge, South Kitsap, Bellarmine Prep, Federal Way-2

BOYS TENNIS: Teams results from Day 1 of WCD tournament

Erick Walker — Fri, 21 May 2010 22:31:12 +0000

Boys Team Results (Day 1)
1. Kentridge-16
2. Kentwood-12
3. Thomas Jefferson-10
4. (tie) Bellarmine Prep and Olympia-8
6. Puyallup-6
7. (tie) Todd Beamer and Gig Harbor-4
9. (tie) Kentlake, Auburn, Curtis-2

WCD Fastpitch postponed

Erick Walker — Fri, 21 May 2010 04:34:41 +0000

Yep, you read that headline correctly. The rain has wiped out all of the games slated for Friday. The tournament will begin Saturday and conclude Monday.

All-SPSL NORTH BASEBALL

Erick Walker — Fri, 21 May 2010 02:27:20 +0000

The SPSL North announced its All-League team (below) earlier today. To no surprise, Kentwood’s Austin Voth brought home the MVP, and deservedly so. Tahoma’s Casper also was a valid candidate, especially after establishing a new school record for home runs, which is a huge accomplishment considering all the talent the Bears have churned out through the years.

One thing I never did understand when it came to these teams, however, is the number of players who are either first-team, second-team or third-team. There are four pitchers alone on the first team, five more on the second team and five others who earned honorable mentions. And that list doesn’t include Voth, who won the MVP. What happened to the day when there was one first-teamer, one second-teamer and one honorable-mentioned selection?

SPSL NORTH: ALL-LEAGUE BASEBALL
MVP: Austin Voth, Kentwood

FIRST TEAM
Catcher: Taylor White, Kentwood
1B: Doug Christie, Kentlake
2B: Jarad Casper, Tahoma
3B: Stetson Olson, Kentridge
SS: Bryant VanEngelenburg, Kentwood
OF: Zach Corpuz, Kentwood
OF: Weber, Federal Way
OF: Austin Pernell, Kentlake
OF: Jason Didis, Kentridge
Utility: Tanielu, Federal Way
DH: Sherwin, Auburn Riverside
Pitcher: Matt Jackson, Kentridge
Pitcher: Doug Christie, Kentlake
Pitcher: Kerwood, Tahoma
Pitcher: Avery Kain, Kentwood

SECOND TEAM
Catcher: Olson, Tahoma
1B: Morris, Federal Way
2B: Brigham, Thomas Jefferson
3B: Fitzgerald, Thomas Jefferson
SS: Smart, Tahoma
OF: Njos, Kentridge
OF: Murphy, Thomas Jefferson
OF: Watkins, Tahoma
OF: Beck, Federal Way
OF: Brown, Auburn
Utility: McQueen, Thomas Jefferson
DH: Johansen, Tahoma
Pitcher: Morris, Federal Way
Pitcher: Brigham, Thomas Jefferson
Pitcher: Campbell, Thomas Jefferson
Pitcher: Horsefall, Federal Way
Pitcher, Cloud, Tahoma

HONORABLE MENTION
Catcher: Ross, Kentlake
Catcher: Evans, Federal Way
1B: Kain, Kentwood
1B: Engelhardt, Tahoma
2B: Hagel, Auburn
2B: Evenson, Kentwood
3B: Schroder, Tahoma
SS: Leady, Kentridge
SS: Archibald, Kentlake
OF: Quackenbush, Thomas Jefferson
OF: Oak, Kentwood
OF: Engman, Kent-Meridian
OF: Ota, Tahoma
Utility: Garrison, Auburn Riverside
DH: Burns, Auburn
Pitcher: Buckles, Kentridge
Pitcher: Weber, Federal Way
Pitcher: Wright, Kentlake
Pitcher: Doyle, Kentwood
Pitcher: Rucker, Auburn Riverside

SENIOR GAME SELECTIONS

Catcher: White
1B: Christie, Morris
3B: Olson, Fitzgerald
SS: VanEngelenburg, Smart
OF: Corpuz, Quackenbush, Didis, Njos, Beck, Brown
Utility: McQueen
Pitchers: Jackson, Horsefall, Cloud, Voth

All-SPSL North fastpitch team

Erick Walker — Fri, 21 May 2010 00:12:08 +0000

The All-SPSL North fastpitch team (below) came out yesterday. I have to make a note of the Coach of the Year, Tahoma’s Tom Milligan. Talk about a guy who deserves an extra nod. Milligan has put in his time with the program and has guided the Bears to their best fastpitch season in school history. It has been nice seeing that group break through this season.

SPSL NORTH: ALL-LEAGUE FASTPITCH
MVP: Hannah Kiyohara, Thomas Jefferson; Erin Crowley, Kentlake
Pitcher of the Year: Kelli Suguro, Kentridge
Coach of the Year: Tom Milligan, Tahoma

FIRST TEAM
Pitcher: Sammii Jimenez, Tahoma
Pitcher: Nikole Weber, Kentlake
Catcher: Amber Morrow, Auburn
Infield/1B: Lisa Maulden, Tahoma
Infield/2b: Erika Smyth, Kentlake
Infield/SS: Hannah Melick, Auburn Riverside
Infield/3B: Brooke Evans, Kentlake
DP: Jordan Walley, Tahoma
Utility: Jessie Richardson, Kentlake
Outfield: Lexi Goranson, Thomas Jefferson
Outfield: Ashley Mundo, Auburn Riverside
Outfield: Reno Whitcomb, Thomas Jefferson
Outfield: Kellie Nielsen, Kentlake

SECOND TEAM
Pitcher: Katie Jackson, Thomas Jefferson
Pitcher: Danielle Orvella, Kentridge
Catcher: Shelby Carter, Tahoma
Infield/1B: Allie Crowe, Thomas Jefferson
Infield/2B: Emily Miller, Tahoma
Infield/SS: Haley Beckstrom, Tahoma; Bailey Marshall, Kentwood
Infield/3b: Nicole Barger, Kentridge
DP: Ashleigh Mate, Kentridge
Utility: Kara Jenkins, Auburn Riverside
Outfield: Kaila Wilkinson, Tahoma
Outfield: Mackena Sherman, Kentwood

HONORABLE MENTION
Pitcher: Bethany Pfaff, Kentwood
Pitcher: Hannah Sauget, Kentlake
Catcher: Allison Newcomb, Kentwood
Infield/1B: Bree Cossey, Kentwood
Infield/2B: Cassidy DeWaele, Thomas Jefferson; Sadie Bynum, Federal Way
Infield/3B: Michaela Patton, Kentwood
DP: Rachel Burr, Kentwood
Utility: Mackenzie Blakeley, Auburn
Outfield: Katie Myers, Tahoma
Outfield: Alyssa Lonsbery, Auburn
Outfield: Alexis Engman, Kentlake

GYMNASTICS: Gavino delivers gold for Metropolitan team

Erick Walker — Wed, 19 May 2010 23:58:48 +0000

Cheyenne Gavino thought she had a chance.
And she made gold on it, too.
Gavino, who competes for Metropolitan Gymnastics in Kent (6822 S. 190th St.), brought home golden performance from the National Championships in Des Moines, Iowa on May 1-2. A 16-year-old Mount Rainier High sophomore, Gavino grabbed gold in the all around. Her performance included first-place finishes in both the vault and the bars.
“I thought I had a shot,” Gavino said. “I just didn’t know about the level of competition.”
Gavino, who won a Class 3A state title this past winter, admits this was her biggest victory to date.
“I was pretty excited,” she said. “My mom was crying. Then that made me want to cry.”
Gavino wasn’t alone among Metropolitan gymnasts who shined.
Kristen Rodal grabbed a silver medal on the bars and took fourth on the floor. Bethany Pupava brought home a silver medal on the floor.
In all, Metropolitan gymnasts snagged eight medals.

GIRLS TENNIS: Final results from SPSL tournament

Erick Walker — Wed, 12 May 2010 16:09:25 +0000

SPSL TOURNAMENT

The top 10 finishers go on to West Central District tournament, which will be held May 19, 21, 22 at Sprinker Recreation Center in Spanaway.

Final Team Standings:

1. Decatur-22

2. Thomas Jefferson, Auburn-20

4. Kentwood-19

5. Tahoma-18

6. Emerald Ridge-17

7. Puyallup-16

8. Kentridge-12

9. Federal Way-10

10. Rogers-8
11. Bethel-6

12. Todd Beamer-5

13. Auburn Riverside-4

14. Graham Kapowsin-3

15. Curtis-2

16. Kentlake, Kent Meridian, Spanaway Lake 1

Singles

1st and 2nd: Meghan Cassens-Dec d Sandy Dennett-Aub 6-0, 6-2

3rd and 6th: Sarah Lin-Dec d Breanna Ziccarelli-TJ 6-0, 6-1

4th and 7th: Sandi Mihaylova-Aub d Ashley Lucas-Tah 7-6, 6-0

5th and 8th: Averi Kitsch-TJ d Haley Ward-FW 6-2, 6-0

9th and alt: Kim Auton-ER d Kyanna Esber-KR 6-4, 2-6, 7-6

10th and alt: Macy Johansen-ER d Sara Maskal-Rog 7-6, 4-6, 6-4

Doubles

1st and 2nd: Nagai/Manthou-KW d Southworth/Bahlenhorst-Tah 6-1, 6-4

3rd and 6th: Brown/Sullivan-Puy d Skinner/Spero-KW 6-4, 6-2

4th and 7th: Prothero/Wentzke-Aub d Qualls/Min-TJ 7-6, 6-3

5th and 8th: AhYat/Lee-KR d Lang/Park-FW injury default

9th and alt: Vroling/Veneziani-ER d Shaffer/Pham-Puy 6-0, 6-3

10th and alt: Sessoms/Kanesta-Dec d Storm/Babcock-ER 6-4, 6-2

SPSL girls tennis results, Day 2

Erick Walker — Wed, 12 May 2010 00:44:46 +0000

GIRL TENNIS: SPSL tournament, Day 2

1. Decatur, Thomas Jefferson, Kentwood-15

4. Emerald Ridge, Puyallup-14

6. Tahoma-13

7. Auburn-12

8. Kentridge-9

9. Rogers-8

10. Bethel, Federal Way-6

12. Todd Beamer-5

13. Auburn Riverside-4

14. Graham Kapowsin-3

15. Curtis-2

16. Kentlake, Kent Meridian, Spanaway Lake-1

Singles quarterfinals: Dennett-Aub d Kitsch-TJ 6-0, 6-1; Lin-Dec d Johansen-ER 6-1, 6-0; Cassens-Dec d Mihaylova-Aub 6-0, 6-1; Ziccarelli-TJ d Lucas-Tah 6-2, 6-0. Consolation quarterfinals: Auton-ER d Lavergne-GK 1-6, 6-4, 6-2; Esber-KR d Turek-Tah inj. def.; Maskal-Rog d Cho-Puy 6-3, 6-2; Ward-FW d Martinson-Rog 7-6, 6-3

Doubles quarterfinals: Manthou/Nagai-KW d Lang/Park-FW 6-0, 6-1; Skinner/Spero-KW d AhYat/Lee-KR 7-5, 2-6, 6-1; Southworth/Bahlenhorst-Tah d Qualls/Min-TJ 6-3, 3-6, 6-4; Sullivan/Brown-Puy d Prothero/Wentzke-Aub 6-4, 6-1; Consolation quarterfinals: Shaffer/Pham-Puy d Griess/Ohlson-Beth 6-4, 6-4; Vroling/Veneziani-ER d Sutcliff/Hoefel-TB 6-0, 6-4; Storm/Babcock-ER d Bruno/Hayter-Puy 6-3, 6-2; Sessoms/Kanesta-Dec d Sariego/Nakamura-TJ 6-1, 6-4

SPSL TENNIS RESULTS

Erick Walker — Mon, 10 May 2010 17:11:19 +0000

SPSL GIRLS TENNIS TOURNAMENT

Below is a look at the first three rounds of the South Puget Sound League girls tennis tournament, which was held on May 8. The tournament continues today at Kent-Meridian High.

1. Thomas Jefferson-12

2. Emerald Ridge-11

3. Tahoma and Puyallup-10

5. Decatur, Auburn, Kentwood-9

8. Kentridge-8

9. Rogers-7

10. Bethel-6

11. Todd Beamer, Federal Way-5

13. Auburn Riverside-4

14. Graham Kapowsin-3

15. Curtis-2

16. Spanaway Lake, Kentlake, Kent Meridian-1

Singles round 3: Dennett-Aub d Lavergne-GK 6-0, 6-0; Kitsch-TJ d Auton-ER 6-1, 6-0; Johansen-ER d Esber-KR 6-4, 6-4; Lin-Dec d Turek-Tah 6-3, 6-3; Cassens-Dec d Cho-Puy 6-0, 6-0; Mihaylova-Aub d Maskal-R 6-1, 3-6, 6-3; Lucas-Tah d Ward-FW 5-7, 6-2, 6-0; Ziccarelli-Tj d Martinson-R 7-5, 6-2

Doubles round 3: Manthou/Nagai-KW d Greiss/Ohlsen-Beth 6-0, 6-0; Lang/Park-FW d Shaffer/Pham-Puy 6-2, 2-6, 6-1; AhYat/Lee-KR d Vroling/Venezianni-ER 3-6, 6-2, 6-4; Skinner/Spero-KW d Sutcliff/Hoefel 6-4, 4-6, 6-2; Qualls/Min-TJ d Bruno/Hayter-Puy 6-0, 6-0; Southworth/Bahlenhorst-Tah d Storm/Babcock 6-2, 6-0; Prothero/Wentzke-Aub d Sessoms/Kanesta-D 6-0, 6-3; Sullivan/Brown-Puy d Sariego/Nakamura-TJ 6-1, 6-3

Kentwood girls, Kent-Meridian boys shine on track again

Erick Walker — Mon, 03 May 2010 23:36:33 +0000

The Kentwood High girls and Kent-Meridian boys continued to turn heads this past weekend.
The Conquerors rolled to the team title at the Lake Washington Invitational, racking up 58.75 points, well ahead of Skyline and Jackson, both of whom tied for second place with 40 points.
Holly DeHart once again blazed a path for the Conquerors, winning the 100 (12.29), the 200 (24.85) and running the second leg of Kentwood’s winning 4 x 200 relay team, which also included Aiesha Goodlow, Quincie Proctor-Guyton and Dana Wareham.
Meanwhile, the Kent-Meridian boys brought home the top spot from the Oregon Relays in Eugene. The Royals collected 82 team points, which put them just ahead of second-place Oregon City (78.25) and third-place Camas (63).
Defending Class 4A 800-meter state champion Derrick Daigre blistered the oval once again, winning the event in 1:56 flat, four seconds ahead of the next closest competitor. The K-M 4 x 100 relay team (BJ Arceneaux, Brandon Harris, Prescott Jackson and David Jones) also raced to victory, breaking the tape in 42.68. That same group also was victorious in the sprint medley (200, 200, 400 and 800), an event that’s not included in Washington. The Royals also snagged gold in the distance medley thanks to a strong performance from the contingent of Matt Bailey, Jackson, Jordan Thompson-Walker and Daigre.

K-M’s Self sets CWU record in hammer throw

Erick Walker — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 23:50:28 +0000

For the second consecutive week, Central Washington University junior and 2007 Kent-Meridian graduate Torrie Self shattered the school’s hammer throw record, throwing a distance of 179-feet, 4 inches last Friday at the Western Washington University Twilight meet at Bellingham’s Civic Stadium.
Self, who had thrown for a distance of 170-feet, 9 inches in the previous Saturday’s Spike Arlt Invitational at Ellensburg’s Tomlinson Stadium, improved upon her previous personal best by more than 8 1/2 feet. In the process, Self established a NCAA Division II automatic national qualifying mark and posted the third-best mark in the event in the nine-year history of the Great Northwest Athletic Conference.
Self also placed third in the women’s shot put and women’s discus. Her event title in the hammer was the lone individual first-place finish for the Wildcats.

East-West football rosters

Erick Walker — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 23:13:52 +0000

The East-West prep football All-Star game is slated for June 26 at Everett Memorial Stadium.

EAST

Greg Logan, WR/DB, Graham-Kapowsin; Austin Dodge, QB, Skyview; Jake Miller, P/K, Central Valley; Joe Fuerst, RB/DB, Eisenhower; Levi Taylor, RB/DB, Lewis & Clark; Bo Tully, DB/WR, Mead; Leon LaDeaux, DB/WR, South Kitsap; Travis Ward, QB/DB, Mount Spokane; Michael Madden, WR/DB, White River; Mitch Saylor, WR/DB, Union; Willis Wilson, RB/DB, Lakes; Coleton Williams, WR/DB, Mount Spokane; Anthony Meray, RB/DB, Bethel; Bennett Bontemps, DB/RB, Rogers (Puyallup); Darrian Creamer, RB/LB, Peninsula; Jordan Radcliffe, RB, Timberline; Darius Waters, TE/LB, Lakes; Dallin Shirley, DE/TE, Skyview; Nathaniel Penaranda, RB/DB, Union; Austin Graves, TE/DE, Southridge; Zach Chapman, TE/DE, Mountain View; Justin O’Neil, OL/DL, Kelso; Sione Potoa’e, DL/OL, Lakes; Matt Turner, LB/RB, Decatur; Ashton Boothroyd, OL/DL, Mount Spokane; Brent Anderson, C/DL, Southridge; Drew Schultz, OL/DL, Olympia; Trevor Poole, OL/DL, Ferris; Chris Edison, OL/DL, Curtis; Tim Davison, OL/DL, Kelso; Christian Wesley, WR/DB, Central Kitsap; Taylor Nelson, LB/TE, Union; Kjelby Oiland, OL/DL, Ferris.

Coach: Dave Miller, Lakes. Assistants: Adam Fisher, East Valley (Spokane); Mark Keel, Central Kitsap; Willis Freeman, Lakes; Jason Silbaugh, Lakes.

WEST

Cole Graves, DB/WR, Juanita; Marco Henry, DB/WR, Nathan Hale; Sean Penberthy, P/K, Skyline; Andy Smith, QB/DB, Arlington; Joey DeRitis, DB/RB, Seattle Prep; Khayree Johnson, WR/DB, Rainier Beach; Trenton Pinson, RB/DB, Federal Way; Naji Taylor-Moore, RB/DB, Meadowdale; Conner Varnell, WR/DB, Arlington; Taylor Mead, DB/WR, Jackson; Mychael Tuiasosopo, DL/TE, Mariner; Tristen Askew, QB/DB, Kentwood; Chris McGrath, WR/DB, Cascade; Larry Dixon, RB/OLB, Olympic; Markeem Adams, WR/DB, West Seattle; Evan Hudson, DE/TE, Bothell; Blake Johnson, DB/WR, Olympic; Cameron Talley, LB/WR, Liberty; Anthony DeMatteo, LB, Skyline; John Hampton, C/DL, Rainier Beach; Nick Rouser, DL/OL, Oak Harbor; Konner Knudtsen, OL/LB, Tahoma; Kyle Bossom, OL/DE, Marysville-Pilchuck; Aaron Moetului, OL/DL, Mount Si; Loren Danielsen, OL/DL, Snohomish; Galen Rock, OL/DL, Renton; Coleton Langdon, OL/DL, Liberty; Nathan Herrick, DL/C, Kentwood; Conner Hamlett, TE/DE, Meadowdale; Chris Pitre, DL/OL, Kennedy Catholic; Dylan Zylstra, LB, Kentridge.

Coach: Mark Stewart, Meadowdale. Assistants: Tony Davis, Tahoma; Curtis Bogan, Tahoma; Dean Wiley, Meadowdale; Jim Ward, Meadowdale.

HOCKEY: KENT VALLEY RAINIERS BAG CHAMPIONSHIP

Erick Walker — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 23:09:42 +0000

The Kent Valley Rainiers won the Pacific District Pee Wee Tier I Championship on March 21 with 4-3 double-overtime victory over the L.A. Selects in San Jose, Calif. The Rainiers, a select hockey team comprised of local 11 and 12 year old, became the first Washington team in more than 30 years to represent the Pacific District at the USA Hockey Tier I National Championships. Tier I is the highest level of youth hockey played in the U.S. and includes teams from major hockey towns like Detroit, Chicago, Boston and New York.
The Rainiers will head to Buffalo, N.Y. to try and capture a National Championship from April 7-11.

Finch joins Diamond Sports Training Center

Erick Walker — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 19:16:23 +0000

Steve Finch, a 2000 Lindbergh High graduate, became the latest edition to the Diamond Sports Training Center staff on Monday, March 3. Finch, who has coached multiple youth teams in the area, including the Kent Bulldogs from 2006 to 2008, will be the Training Center’s Business Operations Manager.
“He’s the complete package,” said Nevin Garthwaite, General Manager of Diamond Sports Training Center. “Steve is not only a great baseball team manager and coach, he is also highly experienced in managing sporting goods retail sales and training center operations.”
Finch, 28, most recently managed the retail store and training center operations at Northwest Team Sports (previously Varsity Baseball) in downtown Kent. Finch is looking forward to his new role with Diamond Sports Training Center.
“I’m looking forward to bringing my knowledge and what I learned at Northwest Team Sports to Diamond Sports,” he said.
In addition to taking over as the Business Operations Manager at Diamond Sports Training Center, Finch also coaches the 13U Rawlings Rebels, which includes players from around the Kent Valley. Of special interest to Finch, is the Diamond Sports Training Center’s one-of-a-kind artificial turf infield, which is completely netted for live game action. Diamond Sports Training Center is the only facility in the area with a complete infield.
Finch’s initial focus will be the Training Center’s pro shop, which provides a wide range of high quality baseball and fast pitch equipment and apparel such as Rawlings, Nike, Wilson, DeMarini, Worth, Majestic and others. He will also look after the daily operations at the training center, improving camps and clinics. Later this spring, Finch will announce plans for a Diamond Sports outdoor summer and fall program and an exciting new winter indoor team training program.
For more information on the Diamond Sports Training Center (13712 24th St. E, Sumner, Wa.), call 253-987-5082 , go to the web site www.diamondsportstrainingcenter.com, or e-mail, frontoffice@diamondsportstrainingcenter.com

KW PRODUCT STUCKEY COLLAPSES

Erick Walker — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:13:54 +0000

Kent native Rodney Stuckey suffered a big scare last Friday night.
Stuckey, who now plays in the NBA with the Detroit Pistons, was wheeled off the court on a stretcher during the third quarter against Cleveland after he collapsed into a trainer’s arms on the bench. Stuckey walked off the floor for a timeout and showed no signs up illness. After a few minutes in the chair, Stuckey slumped over. He remained conscious and breathing on his own as he was taken to a nearby hospital.
Doctors ran several tests on Stuckey during the weekend, but found nothing. Stuckey’s return this season remains in doubt. Stuckey, a guard, is averaging just more than 17 points per game for the Pistons.

Kentlake’s Wright heading to CWU

Erick Walker — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 18:25:52 +0000

Kentlake High senior Tyler Wright recently signed a letter-of-intent to play football next fall at Central Washington University in Ellensburg. This past fall Wright, who also is one of the school’s top basketball players, was named the South Puget Sound League North Division’s All-Purpose Player of the Year, was a first-team All-League defensive back and a second-team All-League wide receiver. He also was Kentlake’s kicker and one of the team’s running backs.
“I had a few offers to choose from but ultimately found that CWU had a great deal of the things that I was looking for in a school,” Wright said. “Smaller class sizes, a small-town community, a very strong program that includes coaches and players that I have a great deal of respect for, but being close enough to home to have extended family in the stands was a major attribute.”

KW’s Smith named to McDonald’s All-American team

Erick Walker — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 23:15:05 +0000

Josh Smith of Kentwood High School joined the ranks of basketball’s elite today with his selection to the prestigious 2010 McDonald’s All American High School Basketball Boys Team. Smith’s participation in the Games will help raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Central Ohio, which supports local children and families in need.
Smith was named to the West squad, and will play with the 23 other top male high school basketball players in the country. He averages 13.4 points-per-game, 11 rebounds and 2 blocked shots. His coach is Michael Angelidis.
The boys game will tip off at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, March 31 at Value City Arena in Columbus, Ohio and will air live on ESPN.
Since 1977, over 750 male players have competed in the McDonald’s All American Games, forming an elite list that reads like a “Who’s Who” in basketball history. McDonald’s All American athletes include basketball greats Alonzo Mourning, Magic Johnson, LeBron James, Dwight Howard, Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Durant.

SPSL NORTH ALL-LEAGUE BASKETALL TEAMS

Erick Walker — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 21:33:09 +0000

SPSL NORTH ALL-LEAGUE BASKETBALL
BOYS
MVP – Cole Dickerson, Federal Way

FIRST TEAM
Gary Bell, Kentridge
Ryan Rogers, Auburn Riverside
Kevin Henderson, Auburn
Isiah Umipig, Federal Way
Josh Smith, Kentwood

SECOND TEAM
Christian Behrens, Tahoma
Iszia Johnson, Auburn
Daniel Landram, Kentlake
Robert Christopher, Federal Way
Eric Radford, Jefferson
Tre Tyler, Kentwood

COACH OF THE YEAR
Michael Angelidis, Kentwood

HONORABLE MENTION
Jerry Duckworth, Federal Way
Tyrell Lewis, Federal Way
George Williams, Federal Way
Justin Lanier, Jefferson
Spencer Hicks, Jefferson
Jeff Brigham, Jefferson
Jaron Heck, Kentlake
Mike Salazar, Kentlake
Barento Ahmed, Kent-Meridian
Jordan Thompson Walker, Kent-Meridian
Craig Rasmussen, Kentridge
Brenden Westendorf, Kentridge
Dylan Zylstra, Kentridge
Jason Boyce, Kentwood
Mikell Everette, Kentwood
Alec Wilson, Kentwood
Roman Tymchuk, Auburn Riverside
Dustin Hegge, Auburn Riverside
Taylor Summerhays, Tahoma

GIRLS
CO-MVP – Mercedes Wetmore, Auburn Riverside
CO-MVP – Kyle Huerta, Kentwood

FIRST TEAM
Hannah Kiyohara, Jefferson
Morgan Comstock, Kentwood
Talia Walton, Federal Way
Darah Huertas-Vining, Federal Way
Kat Cooper, Auburn Riverside

SECOND TEAM
Liz Mills, Kentwood
Sanda Milovic, Kentwood
Erin McCaslin, Tahoma
Heather Restrepo, Auburn
Briana Shannon, Kent-Meridian

COACH OF THE YEAR
Terry Johnson, Auburn Riverside

HONORABLE MENTION
Cashe Jones, Federal Way
Molly Campbell, Federal Way
Megan Merrill, Kentridge
Courtney Johnson, Kentwood
Katie Buskey, Tahoma
Lauren Hamberg, Tahoma
Savanna Haverfield, Tahoma
Desiree Guitian, Kent-Meridian
Miriame Akpatou, Kent-Meridian
Alexandria Witherspoon, Kent-Meridian
Unique Taufa’Asau, Jefferson
Riley Butler, Kentlake
Chantel Dixon, Federal Way
Brittany Barrington, Federal Way
Isia Johnson, Auburn
Kara Jenkins, Auburn Riverside
Brook Hinkens, Auburn Riverside
Taylor Wofford, Auburn Riverside
Cody Sisco, Kentlake
Katie Bubsey, Kentake
Jada Piper, Jefferson
Nicole Barger, Kentridge
Aubreyana Anderson, Kent-Meridian

MOUNT RAINIER JOINING THE SPSL NORTH 4A?

Erick Walker — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 19:27:50 +0000

It is not yet official, but it appears Mount Rainier High located in Des Moines will be moving in to the South Puget Sound League North Division 4A next fall.
The re-alignment isn’t official and the powers that be still need to decide which school between Federal Way and Thomas Jefferson will shift to the SPSL South. As of the moment, however, it appears almost a done deal that Mount Rainier, currently of the Class 3A Seamount League, will be joining the North.

As of spring of 2009, Mount Rainier had an enrollment of 1,572 students, which puts it ahead of Kent-Meridian (1,450) and Kentlake (1,474). Class 4A schools need to have enrollments of 1,3o4 students or more, so it’s clear to see why Mount Rainier will be moving up.

THE REPORTER’S PREP BASKETBALL RANKINGS

Erick Walker — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 18:34:04 +0000

CLASS 4A BOYS
1. Federal Way (19-1)
2. Gonzaga Prep (17-1)
3. Curtis (19-1)
4. Richland (16-3)
5. Jackson (16-2)
6. Walla Walla (16-3)
7. Kamiakin (15-4)
8. Skyline (15-3)
9. Garfield (14-4)
10. Lake Stevens
Others receiving votes: Davis (15-4), Eastlake (13-5), Decatur (14-6), Bellarmine Prep (14-6)

CLASS 4A GIRLS
1. Auburn Riverside (20-0)
2. Woodinville (17-1)
3. Issaquah (15-3)
4. Kentwood (17-5)
5. Chiawana (16-2)
6. Edmonds-Woodway (18-1)
7. Newport (16-2)
8. Jackson (16-3)
9. Bellarmine Prep (14-6)
10. Federal Way (17-4)

Others receiving votes: Richland (15-4), Bethel (16-4), Marysville-Pilchuck (15-5), Mount Tahoma (17-3)

SPSL HOOPS … BREAKING TIES

Erick Walker — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 19:59:50 +0000

With one game in the regular season remaining on the schedule, plenty has yet to have been decided.
On the boys’ side, Auburn, Auburn Riverside, Thomas Jefferson and Kentlake are still fighting it out for the final playoff berths.
I trade e-mails with SPSL commissioner Doug Auburn earlier today for some clarifications.
Here’s what Dave informed me:

“All ties first go to a head to head advantage. If one team has beaten another both times during the year they own the tie-breaker and would have the higher seed or advance. If the teams split during the year they play off on Tuesday. Sites TBD. If all holds true to form we will have two tie-breaker games in the North, both girls, KW vs FW and Aub vs KL. It looks as if these will be held at Tahoma on Tuesday 2/9.”

My initial question to Dave was this: If Kentlake upsets Kentwood tomorrow night, TJ falls to Federal Way (as expected) and Auburn knocks off Auburn Riverside, who advances? This would put AR and KL in a tie for the fifth and final slot.

Dave answered as follows:

“With the boys teams as you describe … one team holds the tie-breaker over another; AR over TJ, TJ over Aub, Aub over KL, KL over AR. Currently, AR has better record than Auburn but if Auburn wins they’ll tie and Auburn will hold the tie-breaker over AR.”

But what if TJ pulls off the mother of all upsets Friday night and knocks off FW?

“Then we would have a mini-tournament on Tuesday,” Dave noted.

The bottom line? Things could get really, really interesting tomorrow night around 9:30 p.m.

The Reporter’s Class 4A State Basketball Rankings

Erick Walker — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 22:20:59 +0000

BOYS
1. Federal Way (13-1)
2. Gonzaga Prep (13-1)
3. Curtis (15-1)
4. Jackson (13-1)
5. Walla Walla (13-2)
6. Richland (13-2)
7. Skyline (12-2)
8. Kamiakin (12-3)
9. Lake Stevens (11-4)
10. Decatur (11-5)
Others receiving votes: Kentridge (11-5), Garfield (10-4), Foss (11-4), Lake Washington (11-3)

GIRLS
1. Auburn Riverside (16-0)
2. Issaquah (13-1)
3. Newport (13-1)
4. Woodinville (13-1)
5. Edmonds-Woodway (13-1)
6. Federal Way (12-3)
7. Chiawana (12-1)
8. Jackson (12-2)
9. Marysville-Pilchuck (12-3)
10. Kentwood (11-4)
Others receiving votes: Bellarmine Prep (11-5), Mount Tahoma (13-3), Lewis and Clark (9-5)

KW’s WILCOX THRIVING AT GRCC

Erick Walker — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 22:17:42 +0000

Jake Wilcox, a 2008 Kentwood High graduate and an SPSL honorable mention selection on the basketball court his senior season, has continued to have success at Green River Community College. Wilcox entered the week leading the Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges in steals (53) assists (114, 7.13 per game).

INGLES MOVING ON

Erick Walker — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 21:06:24 +0000

Former Kentwood High football coach Tom Ingles is moving on once again.
Ingles stepped down last week as head coach of the Puyallup High program, where he went after coaching Kentwood from 1990-2003. Ingles is one of the state’s all-time winningest coaches and, quite frankly, a great guy who always was easy to work with.

While at Kentwood, he won a pair of state titles (2001 and 2002). He also won a state title at Liberty in 1988. A member of the Washington State Football Hall of Fame, Ingles has an overall record of 248-103. In 14 seasons at Kentwood, Ingles collected a record of 114-40.

I’d suspect Ingles will catch on somewhere. His wife, Zena, is a school administrator in California, so there’s a chance his next coaching gig may not be in these parts.

ABEL SIGNS ON AT UTAH STATE

Erick Walker — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 18:28:47 +0000

Congratulations are in order for 2008 Kentwood High graduate Brooks Abel, who recently signed on to play football at Utah State University in Logan.
Abel, a 6-foot-6 300-pound lineman, spent this past season playing at College of the Siskiyous in Northern California.
A few things I really love about this signing …

1) Abel hasn’t reached his potential and has a high ceiling, so the Aggies did well.
2) Abel received a three-year full-ride scholarship.
3) Some of you may remember, Abel earned a fifth year at Kentwood High. He endured his share of struggles during high school, both personally and in the classroom, but turned a corner his second senior season. Goes to show you what a second chance means to some kids. From what I hear, Abel blossomed into a leader with College of the Siskiyous and graduated with his two-year degree in a little more than a year. It’s quite a success story and Abel deserves a big pat on the back.

Kentridge product Barclay swimming to success

Erick Walker — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 22:23:15 +0000

Jordan Barclay, a 2008 Kentridge High graduate, last week was named a Midwest Conference Swimming & Diving “Performer of the Week.” Barclay, who competes for Carroll University in Wisconsin, won five events and spearheaded a pair of relay victories in leading the Pioneers past Beloit College, 154-70. Barclay won the 50 butterfly (29.54), 50 backstroke (31.26), the 50 breaststroke (36.38), the 50 freestyle (27.79) and the 100 IM (1:08.75). Barclay also helped the Pioneers come away with victories in the 200-free relay (1:53.11) and the 200 medley relay (2:06.92).

The Reporter’s basketball rankings

Erick Walker — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 01:29:48 +0000

CLASS 4A BOYS
1. Federal Way (10-0)
2. Curtis (11-0)
3. Gonzaga Prep (9-1)
4. Richland (10-0)
5. Jackson (9-1)
6. Decatur (8-2)
7. Kamiakin (9-1)
8. Skyline (8-1)
9. Foss (9-2)
10. Kentridge (8-3)
Others receiving votes: Walla Walla (7-2), Lake Washington (8-2), Lake Stevens (8-3)

CLASS 4A GIRLS
1. Auburn Riverside (11-0)
2. Woodinville (10-0)
3. Issaquah (9-1)
4. Newport (9-1)
5. Kentwood (8-2)
6. Federal Way (9-2)
7. Lewis and Clark (7-3)
8. Edmonds-Woodway (8-1)
9. Jackson (8-1)
10. Chiawana (9-1)
Others receiving votes: Bellarmine Prep (7-3), Monroe (9-1), Richland (8-2), Wenatchee (7-4), Kentlake (8-3), Marysville-Pilchuck (8-3)

KW’s Smith won’t play in T-Mobile Invitational

Erick Walker — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 20:32:39 +0000

It appears Kentwood basketball star Josh Smith, the team’s 6-foot-10, UCLA-bound center, will not be playing in the T-Mobile Invitational, which is slated for Dec. 29-30 in Birmingham, Ala.

“The doctor has not cleared Josh to play and he will be out another two weeks,” KW athletic director JoAnne Daughtry said in an e-mail.

Smith injured the patellar tendon in his right knee on Dec. 8 in a loss against Federal Way. The two-time SPSL North MVP came down awkwardly on the leg after grabbing a rebound in the fourth quarter, then motioned toward the bench to be taken out.
Kentwood has lost two of three games without Smith in the lineup.

SPSL NORTH HOOP STANDINGS/LEADERS

Erick Walker — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:33:01 +0000

BOYS
SPSL NORTH STANDINGS
TEAM               LEAGUE   OVERALL
Federal Way         4-0                7-0
Kentridge          4-2                4-2
A. Riverside         3-2                4-3
Kentlake               3-2               3-3
Auburn                3-3                5-3
Jefferson             2-3               4-3
Kentwood         2-3              2-3
Kent-Meridian   1-4   2-5
Tahoma                1-4      2-4

LEADERS

INDIVIDUAL SCORING
Name, school       PPG.
1. Gary Bell, KR       26.5
2. Ryan Rogers, AR            21.8
3. Christian Behrens, T    21.0
4. Cole Dickerson, FW      18.0
5. Mike Salazar, KL      18.0
6. Kevin Henderson, A   17.3
7. Isiah Umipig, FW           17.0
8. Barenton Ahmed, K-M   15.5
9. Jordan Walker-Thompson, K-M 15.0
10. Jeff Baklund, TJ         15.0

REBOUNDS
Name, school                   RPG.
1. Christian Behrens, T 12.2
2. Eric Radford, TJ             10.0
3. Nick Hammond, A   8.75
4. Cole Dickerson, FW   8.0
5. Spencer Hicks, TJ         8.0

ASSISTS
Name, school              APG.
1. Isiah Umipig, FW        6.00
2. Rowland Quinit, A    4.25
3. Gary Bell, KR             4.00
4. Scott Sanford, TJ        4.00
5. Iszia Johnson, A   3.75

GIRLS
SPSL NORTH STANDINGS
TEAM       LEAGUE   OVERALL
A. Riverside   5-0      7-0
Kentlake          5-0            7-0
Kentwood       4-1   6-1
Federal Way   3-2 5-2
Auburn           3-3           3-4
Tahoma       2-3      3-4
Jefferson         2-4          3-5
Kent-Meridian   0-5   0-6
Kentridge       0-6   0-7

LEADERS
INDIVIDUAL SCORING
Name, school                        PPG.
1. Morgan Comstock, KL         24.3
2. Mercedes Wetmore, AR   22.0
3. Kylie Huerta, KW               21.0
4. Briana Shannon, K-M   18.6
5. Isia Johnson, A                  18.0
6. Hannah Kiyohara, TJ   16.5
7. Sanda Milovic, KW           15.8
8. Ty Burgess, FW                 14.8
9. D. Huertas-Vining, FW 14.4
10. Brook Hinkens, AR   13.0

REBOUNDS
Name, school                   RPG.
1. Morgan Comstock, KL   13.3
2. Ty Burgess, FW               12.0
3. Unique Taufa’asau, TJ 10.5
4. Talia Walton, FW           10.4
5. Tanjunique Ajeto, FW   10.0

ASSISTS
Name, school                    APG.
1. D. Huertas-Vining, FW     4.0
2. Kylie Huerta, KW               4.0
3. Mercedes Wetmore, AR   4.0
4. Cody Sisco, KL                   3.5
5. Karen Carpenter, TJ      3.0

The Reporter’s Basketball Rankings: Week 2

Erick Walker — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 22:56:34 +0000

So here it is, folks, the second week of the Reporter’s Class 4A boys and girls basketball polls. The records in parenthesis are entering the week and do reflect anything that has happened during the last couple of days.
Also, remember these polls are voted on by several Sound Publishing sports reporters, not just myself.

Interestingly, Kentlake dropped out of the girls rankings this week despite winning two more games and still being unbeaten. The Falcons were at No. 10 last week. I’m not sure how they dropped out, however, if the Falcons continue their winning ways, look for them to crack the top 10 for good very soon. Kentlake will be challanged considerably once the new year is upon us with Federal Way, Kentwood and Auburn Riverside in succession.

Also of note was the drop of the Kentwood boys, which was at No. 3 last week and now is at No. 10, just behind Kentridge. Those two teams play Friday night (Dec. 18), so one of them likely will fall out by next week.

Any questions or comments, please send them my way.

CLASS 4A BOYS
1. Federal Way (4-0)
2. Gonzaga Prep (3-0)
3. Walla Walla (3-0)
4. Decatur (5-0)
5. Jackson (4-0)
6. Garfield (2-0)
7. Curtis (5-0)
8. Lincoln (3-1)
9. Kentridge (3-1)
10. Kentwood (2-1)
Others receiving votes: Lake Stevens (3-0), Skyline (2-0), Foss (3-1), Mount Tahoma (4-1), Davis (5-0)

CLASS 4A GIRLS
1. Auburn Riverside (5-0)
2. Lewis and Clark (2-1)
3. Newport (6-0)
4. Kentwood (4-1)
5. Issaquah (3-0)
6. Woodinville (3-0)
7. Mead (2-1)
8. Edmonds-Woodway (4-0)
9. Federal Way (3-2)
10. Jackson (3-1)
Others receiving votes: Chiwana (3-0), Bellarmine Prep (2-1), Garfield (1-2), Kentlake (5-0), Pasco (3-1)

KW’s Smith out at least one game, maybe more

Erick Walker — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 02:40:02 +0000

Kentwood High boys basketball star Josh Smith, who went down with an apparent knee injury during Tuesday night’s 63-41 loss to Federal Way, will miss at least tomorrow night’s game against Auburn Riverside and maybe more, coach Michael Angelidis said Wednesday evening.
“We don’t know how long he will be out,” Angelidis said. “But he won’t play (Thursday).”
The Kentwood coach noted that the UCLA-bound Smith has a “20 percent” tear of the patellar tendon in his right knee.
“We’re expecting to hear back from the doctor about rehab,” Angelidis said. “I don’t think he will be out too long, but we’ll have to wait and see.”
Smith limped off the court in the fourth quarter on Tuesday with 5:49 in the fourth quarter. He went up to block a shot and landed awkwardly, then motioned to the bench to be pulled out of the game.
“When I fell down, I felt something crack,” Smith said Tuesday night.
Smith, the two time SPSL North MVP, averaged 24.5 points per game last year. In limited time Tuesday night, he scored 9 points, grabbed four rebounds and blocked one shot.

The Reporter’s Prep Basketball Rankings

Erick Walker — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:46:54 +0000

Now that we’re a week into the boys and girls basketball season, it’s time to do some rankings.
Below is a look at how the Reporter’s Class 3A and Class 4A boys and girls state rankings panned out. It’s important to note that many sports writers in the company voted on this particular poll. If you have any questions, feel free to throw them my way and I’ll do the best I can in answering.

Interestingly, there are four teams from the SPSL North in the girls rankings. I was a little surprised Kentlake cracked the top 10, though the Falcons are off to an outstanding start (3-0) and Morganne Comstock has been huge thus far. Also, though KW won state last year, I was also a bit surprised the Conks ranked as high as four. The Seattle Times has KW ranked No. 1 and I think that’s a bit high right now. KW has returned some good talent, but it also graduated Lindsey Moore and Jessie Genger, it’s top two scorers.

In the Class 4A boys rankings, Federal Way is unquestionably No. 1 and KW belongs in the top five. I’m interested to see how Kentridge performs in the early season. I think Gary Bell could win the league MVP and Dave Jamison is a coaching wizard, but finding someone to replace the scoring punch of Shaquielle McKissic is going to be tough.

So here are the polls. Let me know your thoughts.

CLASS 4A BOYS
1. Federal Way
2. Gonzaga Prep
3. Kentwood
4. Ferris
5. Walla Walla
6. Garfield
7. Jackson
8. Beamer
9. Decatur
10. Kentridge
Others receiving votes: Lincoln, Inglemoor, Lake Stevens, Curtis, Lake Washington, Foss, Arlington, Skyline

CLASS 4A GIRLS
1. Auburn Riverside
2. Federal Way
3. Lewis and Clark
4. Kentwood
5. Garfield
6. Jackson
7. Mead
8. Bellarmine Prep
9. Woodinville
10. Kentlake
Others receiving votes: Issaquah, Pasco, Edmonds-Woodway, Newport, Lake Stevens, Mount Tahoma, Snohomish

CLASS 3A BOYS
1. Rainier Beach
2. Fanklin
3. Lakes
4. Enumclaw
5. O’Dea
6. Bellevue
7. Seattle Prep
8. Meadowdale
9. Mount Si
10. Union
Others receiving votes: Columbia River, Glacier Peak, Foster, Rogers, Squalicum

CLASS 3A GIRLS
1. Kennedy Catholic
2. Holy Names
3. White River
4. Prarie
5. Shadle Park
6. Mercer Island
7. Bonney Lake
8. West Valley
9. Lakeside
10. Glacier Peak
Others receiving votes: Meadowdale, Bellevue, Auburn Mountainview, Peninsula, Rainier Beach, Ferndale, Hanford, Franklin

KW-FW BOYS HOOPS: LET THE HYPE BEGIN

Erick Walker — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:24:32 +0000

Is it too early to start talking about next Tuesday’s boys basketball game between No. 1 Federal Way and No. 6 Kentwood?
This showdown (7 p.m., Dec. 8 at KW) isn’t just big in regards to the South Puget Sound League North Division, but the state as well.
A few things I’m interested in finding out in this game …

1) How much better can the Eagles be this season?
I traded e-mails with Federal Way Mirror sports reporter Casey Olson earlier today and he feels this Eagle team is even better than last year and, health pending, should win another state title.
I scratched my head and wondered, “How can they be even better? They were nearly flawless last year.”
Guard Michael Hale III has graduated and since moved on to North Idaho College, where he’s playing with Kentridge product Renado Parker. Hale is without a doubt one of the quickest guards I’ve ever reported on. Federal Way also graduated second-team all-leaguer Jeff Forbes.
So how can FW be better?

The Eagles certainly looked better in their season-opening 110-85 throttling of ninth-ranked Lincoln. Yes, 110 points folks. That’s a number Federal Way didn’t reach all of last year. And the Eagles did it against a very good Lincoln team. Ouch!

Sure, Federal Way graduated some top-flight talent, but it also received a solid transfer in Tyrell Lewis (Mount Rainier High).

2) Can Kentwood slow down Federal Way?
Federal Way took two of three games against Kentwood last year, though the Conquerors were one of the few teams that did slow the Eagles down. Federal Way averaged 72.5 points per game last year, but just 57 against Kentwood.
In addition, Kentwood held Cole Dickerson, Federal Way’s leading scorer last year, to a combined 31 points in three games. He averaged 17.5 per game.
So can KW slow down FW? I’d bet on it. How much, however, will be the key.

And the last thing I’m interested in finding out …
3) Will KW’s guards take the open shot or try and force the ball down low?
We all know what KW’s Josh Smith is going to deliver … around 25 points, 15 rebounds, a few blocks and four or five rim-rattling dunks. What got the Conquerors in trouble at times last year, however, was when they tried to force the ball into Smith, who often was double and triple-teamed.
Rest assured, Federal Way will drape at least two guys around Smith. If Kentwood’s guards can take — and hit — some open shots, this has the makings of a tremendous high school basketball game.

I’d love to hear some thoughts on those planning on attending. It should be fun.

Les Schwab Tipoff Classic slated for Thursday, Saturday at KW

Erick Walker — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 20:45:20 +0000

Defending Class 4A state girls basketball champion Kentwood headlines a strong field at the 2009 Les Schwab Tipoff Classic, set to begin Thursday (Dec. 3) at Kentwood High. The tournament will feature four girls teams and four boys teams.
The Kentwood girls cruised to the state championship last season with a 28-1 record and are the feature team of this year’s Tipoff Classic. Kentwood, under new coach Dean Montzingo, who led the Kentwood boys to a state championship in 2004, will face Bellevue (14-10) in a first round game Thursday at 7 p.m.
In the other girls matchup, Auburn Mountainview (18-9) will take on Inglemoor (16-7) 4 p.m.. Auburn Mountainview played in last year’s Class 3A state girls tournament.
On the boys side, Foster (18-9) will take on Class 3A Mount Si (15-9) at 5:30 p.m. while Renton (17-4) takes on Lake Washington (7-13) at 8:30 p.m. Foster appeared in last year’s Class 3A boys state tournament finishing eighth.
Tickets are $7 and available at the door.

2009 LES SCHWAB TIPOFF CLASSIC
At Kentwood High School

Thursday, Dec. 3
4:00 p.m.   Auburn Mountainview girls vs. Inglemoor girls
5:30 p.m.   Foster boys vs. Mount Si boys
7:00p.m.   Kentwood girls vs. Bellevue girls
8:30 p.m.   Renton boys vs. Lake Washington boys

Saturday, Dec. 5
2:00 p.m.   Girls consolation
3:30 p.m.   Boys consolation
5:30 p.m.   Girls championship
7:00 p.m.   Boys Championship