Lynley Wasson

The Chandler Hamilton senior made a statement with a double win at the Chandler Wolves Classic Invitational last weekend. Wins in the 200 individual medley and the 100 breaststroke gave the Husky bragging rights for now.

Can we pick ’em or what? At least 21 of the more than 700 athletes who participated in the USA Swimming Western Sectional championship meet Wednesday-Sunday at Brophy Sports Complex were All-Tribune prep swimmers.

The early unveiling of this season’s high school boys soccer map isn’t too far removed from most of the past few years’ worth of championship geography.

Someday, the talent pool will dry up enough and the Chandler High girls track program will be challenged for state supremacy. That day, however, is not in the immediate future.

The more things change, the more they stay the same. As far as the 2011 high school track and field season goes, that phrase could not be more true.

While it is easy to look at the long Christmas break from school as an opportunity to recharge and prepare for the new year, many of the area sports programs have taken a different approach.

While it is easy to look at the long Christmas break from school as an opportunity to recharge and prepare for the new year, many of the area sports programs have taken a different approach.

Three area youths have made a big splash with their selection to the USA Water Polo national team training squad for youths born in 1991-92.

Few surprises emerged on the field during the state soccer tournaments. Favored teams that reached the final four last weekend (Brophy, Pinnacle girls, Xavier, both Hamilton teams and both Notre Dame squads) showing why they were top contenders.

Outside of recruiting, open enrollment and power points, few phrases have drawn more ire or passion in these parts than the high school division splits in 2005. It’s given schools a better chance to reach state tournaments in team sports, leveled the playing field within conferences and even made a few contenders out of pretenders. It’s also drained the piggy bank by trying to make everyone feel warm and fuzzy.

If first impressions are the greatest, the ’93 Girls AZFC (Arizona Futbol Club) Hammers left no doubts about their abilities at the Thanksgiving Surf Tournament in San Diego.

Repeating as state champion in prep athletics is no easy feat. Although there are a smattering of teams that make long playoff runs each year, actually finishing on top in back-to-back seasons doesn’t happen often.

On one side, severe trepidation in August gave way to relief and satisfaction. On another side is a contingent wishing for now-defunct days of region and super region tournaments.

What does a year of hard work which includes training/practicing Monday through Thursday, then spending the weekends playing in tournaments get you?