Camas Wins First Ever 4A State Title

Posted on December 4, 2016 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec 3rd	2016	4A Final	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Camas	7	3	7	7	24
Richland	0	7	7	0	14

See game recap below

Camas Wins First Ever 4A State Title
By Colin Caruso

The weight is finally off coach Jon Eagle’s shoulders. After suffering one of the worst losses in Washington state football history in 2013 to Chiawanna, coach Eagle brought his Papermakers back to the state final and this time prevailed over the previously undefeated Richland Bombers.

Camas started the game on a tear. A seven play 61-yard drive capped off by a Jack Colletto pass to Cooper McNatt gave the Papermakers an early 7-0 lead.

The scoring stalled all the way until one minute remaining in the first half, when Richland finally broke free on a Ben Stanfield run to tie the game at seven. Camas was able to put together a two-minute drill type drive to get into field goal range, and kicker Michael Boyle knocked in a 34 yarder despite a fumbled snap and hold.

The Bombers received the kick in the second half and stormed down the field to take their first lead of the game, 14-10. Camas was not phased, and responded with their own 80-yard drive for a touchdown, to regain the lead 17-14.

The defenses tightened up in the fourth quarter, with red zone trips from both teams ending in on failed fourth down conversions. With three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, Colletto stepped up to the plate again for the Bombers and rumbled 34 yards for the sealing touchdown. He added an interception in the final minutes, and Camas held on to win the biggest game in their school’s history.

The Final Score:
Camas 24, Richland 14.

Top Performer:
Camas
Jack Colletto – 2 total touchdowns, 1 defensive interception.

The Attrition War, Neah Bay Wins 1B Championship

Posted on December 4, 2016 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec 3rd	2016	1B Final	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Neah Bay	6	28	16	14	64
Odessa-Harrington	0	14	6	14	34

See game recap below

The Attrition War, Neah Bay Wins 1B Championship
By Colin Caruso

Neah Bay, in their third state final in the last four years, faced off against an undefeated and incredibly dominate Odessa-Harrington Titans team in the 1B Washington state championship. The Titans had put up over 70 points in six games this season, topping 90 in two of those contests. The scores they put up in 8 on 8 football are some of the highest seen, but this did not scare the Red Devils of Neah Bay.

Neah Bay jumped out to a quick 12-0 lead and a dominate 34-14 halftime lead against an undermanned Titans lineup. With right around 20 suited players, the Titans faced an uphill battle from the beginning. Neah Bay represents well for a 1B school, and their depth paid dividends throughout this matchup.

Neah Bay extended their halftime lead throughout the 3rd and 4th quarters, with Cameron Buzzell averaging 21 yards per carry on his 8 touches, totally 168 yards and 3 scores. He was too much for the Odessa-Harrington defense, who gave up 498 yards in the game.
As the Red Devils extended their lead, their confidence continued to grow. Their 303 yards on the ground paid dividends to their limited passing attack, but brought the safety up for deep passes and long conversions.

Neah Bay and coach Tony McCaulley went on to capture another state title, with a final score of 64-34.

The Final Score:
Neah Bay 64, Odessa-Harrington 34.

Top Performer:
Neah Bay
Cameron Buzzell – 4 touchdowns.

Archbishop Murphy Dominates Throughout Season, Wins 2A State Championship

Posted on December 4, 2016 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec 3rd	2016	2A Final	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Archbishop Murphy	21	14	14	7	56
Liberty (Issaquah)	0	7	0	7	14

See game recap below

Archbishop Murphy Dominates Throughout Season, Wins 2A State Championship
By Colin Caruso

In a year that saw just nine games played for arguably Washington’s best high school football program, the Archbishop Murphy Wildcats put the stamp on the season in cruising to a 56-14 win in the state finals over the Liberty (Issaquah) Patriots.

The story from Archbishop Murphy’s program this year came in the way of forfeits. Five of their 14 total games were decided without either team stepping on the field, with four consecutive forfeit wins in late August and early September. They went game-less for over a month because their opposition refused to play in fear of injury and demolition. But this didn’t slow the Wildcats down.

During the regular season, Archbishop Murphy gave up a total of 6 points. The Patriots put up an astounding 14 in the final. Kudos to Liberty for never giving up for the full 48 minutes, but this game was over after the first quarter.

Quarterback Connor Johnson threw three touchdowns in the first half, and Collin Montez ran for another two, putting the halftime score at 35-7. Connor Johnson would throw for two more touchdowns early in the third, pushing the total to 49-7 heading into the fourth quarter.

For Liberty, an undefeated season ended against a team that five teams refused to play. For Archbishop Murphy, the season ended similarly to the way it started, with a blowout win. Congratulations to both teams, and especially to the Wildcats for capturing their first state title in the 2A classification.

The Final Score:
Archbishop Murphy 56, Liberty (Issaquah) 14.

Top Performer:
Archbishop Murphy
Connor Johnson – 5 passing touchdowns.

Back to Back 1A State Championships for Royal

Posted on December 3, 2016 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec 3rd	2016	1A Final	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Connell	10	0	0	0	10
Royal	7	3	15	0	25

See game recap below

Back to Back 1A State Championships for Royal
By Colin Caruso

Five time state champion coach Wiley Allred had his Royal Knights rearing to battle in the 1A state final against the talented Connell Eagles. In their first matchup of the year, Royal squeezed past the Eagles 28-21 in Connell. This time, the stage was set in Tacoma for the biggest game of the year.

Connell came out of the gates on fire, putting together a 7 play, 70-yard drive capped off by a 31-yard TD pass from Brian Hawkins to Steven Kroontje. Royal was ready to respond, putting together their own 3 play dazzling drive that ended in a 62-yard TD pass from Knights QB Kaden Jenks, one of his three total scores of the game. Connell added a field goal late in the first to take a 10-7 lead into the second frame, unbeknownst to the Eagles that this would be their last points in the game.

Royal responded in the second quarter with a field goal of their own to send the game into half tied at 10. Allred clearly had an invigorating halftime speech, as his Knights put up 15 points in the third quarter, on a pass and a run from Jenks, a Weber State commit. He was the story all day long; big hits from the safety position on defense and perfect throws and powerful runs from the quarterback position.

The 15 points in the third quarter pushed the score to 25-10, and that was enough to capture the crown. In a game of well-matched clubs, the Knights prevailed and took home the 1A state crown. Congratulations to Royal High School!

The Final Score:
Connell 10, Royal 25.

Top Performer:
Royal
Kaden Jenks – 3 Total TDs.

Kamiakin Wins an OT Defensive Thriller, Captures 2016 3A

Posted on December 3, 2016 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Dec 2nd	2016	3A Final	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	OT	Final
Kamiakin	0	0	0	7	7	14
O’Dea	0	0	7	0	0	7

See game recap below

Kamiakin Wins an OT Defensive Thriller, Captures 2016 3A Washington Crown
By Steve Dion

In a year filled with milestones for longtime O’Dea coach Monte Kohler, one game separated his Fighting Irish from a state title and an undefeated season. To achieve that accomplishment, O’Dea would have to defeat a gritty Kamiakin Braves squad, fresh off a breathtaking win vs. the back to back 3A champion Eastside Catholic Crusaders.

Starting its third string quarterback Emonte Scott in place of Warren King and Ben Beale, the Irish were forced to rely on their power running game of Hunter Franco and Jamyn Patu. Conversely, Kamiakin utilized the improvisational skills of quarterback Zach Borisch.

The first half was marred by stalled drives, turnovers and relentless defense from both schools. A 0-0 halftime score was not the expectation for either team heading into the break.

O’Dea began the second half as they have in several big games this season with pitches to Patu in the “I” formation for long sweep carries. He found a gap for a big gain early in the third, and eventually closed the drive with a 20-yard scamper for the first points of the game. The game remained a stalemate for the next 18 minutes.

Late in the fourth quarter, with the score 7-0 O’Dea, the Braves needed to make an offensive push. From their own 47-yard line, Borisch connected with Darreon Moore on a short pass to score a 53-yard touchdown and tie the game with 4:24 remaining.

The Irish managed the clock through their power running game and put themselves in a position to kick a game winning field-goal with 3 seconds remaining in regulation. The kick sailed just right of the goalposts, sending the game to overtime.

Kamiakin had the first possession from the Irish 25, and Borisch dashed to the pylon for the go-ahead score before anyone in the Tacoma Dome could blink an eye. O’Dea was then forced to score a touchdown, but the stellar Kamiakin defense held strong and closed the door with a fourth down stand, becoming the 3A Washington 2016 football state champions.

The Final Score:
Kamiakin 14, O’Dea 7.

Top Performer:
Kamiakin
Zach Borisch- 2 total TDs

Third Time’s the Charm for Napavine in Title Quest

Posted on December 3, 2016 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Dec 2nd	2016	2B Final	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Liberty (Spangle)	3	7	6	0	16
Napa	7	7	13	7	34

See game recap below

Third Time’s the Charm for Napavine in Title Quest
By Steve Dion

For the third straight year, the Napavine Tigers found themselves in the 2B Washington state championship game. Liberty (Spangle) wanted to play spoiler and end the Tigers quest for the illusive crown.

The Liberty (Spangle) Lancers scored the first points with a short field goal, but Napavine answered with 14 unanswered and took a 14-10 lead into halftime.

The Tigers kept the gas pedal on the floor and continued to pull away in the second half, scoring 13 more unanswered points in the 3rd quarter to take a 27-10 lead. The Lancers battled strong, but were unable to keep pace with the high octane Napavine offense. Lancers quarterback Garrett Rogers hooked up with Josh Larsen-Nowland late in the third to make it just an 11-point game going into the fourth.

Quarterback Wyatt Stanley kept the clock moving for Napavine by capturing big runs and keeping the Lancer offense off the field in the fourth quarter. On the 40th anniversary of their 1976 title, Napavine answered the call and brought the state title back to town by winning the 2A Washington state crown.

The Final Score:
Liberty (Spangle) 16, Napavine 34.

Top Performer:
Napavine
Wyatt Stanley – 4 total TDs

Garfield Ends Rainier Beach’s Reign

Posted on March 10, 2015 by colincarusoZUMA

Garfield Ends Rainier Beach’s Reign
By Colin Caruso

Saturday March 7	2015	Boys	3A	State Final
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Garfield	11	15	18	22	66
Rainier Beach	12	14	15	10	51

Garfield Bulldogs

In a rematch of the Metro championship game, and a matchup of the two best teams in the state of Washington, the stage was set in Tacoma to watch the athleticism unfold between Rainier Beach and Garfield. Both inter-city Seattle schools, both defending state champions (Garfield won 4A last year) with the coveted 3A crown to take home.

The game began with a frantic pace, as it always does with these two teams. Beach got off to a quick lead behind eight first quarter points from star De’Jounte Murray. But the Bulldogs responded on the back of Jaylen Nowell, a sophomore star who responded with seven in the first.

Neither team slowed down in the second quarter; the pace remained at the highest level of the tournament. Even with the extremely fast pace both teams took care of the ball quite well, not allowing the opposition to get easy buckets in transition. Both defenses held firm, and the halftime score was tied at 26.

The Tacoma Dome was electric to start the second half. Neither team was able to pull away in the third quarter, but Garfield appeared to have more control going into the fourth.

After a back and forth third, Garfield held a 44-41 lead entering the final frame.
Shadeed Shabazz started the quarter hot for the Vikings, converting on two straight layups in under 30 seconds to take a one point lead. The teams exchanged baskets, and Garfield continued to attack the basket, getting into the bonus, and knocking down their free throws. With three minutes to play, the Bulldogs held a five point lead.

De’Jounte Murray responded with a beautiful reverse layup, but the Bulldogs answered with a put back layup by Jaylen Nowell. After a Rainier Beach miss, Austin Anderson for the Bulldogs knocked down two more from the line to take a seven point lead, the largest of the game for either team. From there, the Bulldog floodgates opened, ending the game on a 17-2 run.

Congratulations to Garfield, the back to back state champions! This Garfield win ended a Rainier Beach run of three consecutive 3A boys state titles.

Top Performers:
Garfield
Jaylen Nowell – 23 points, 10 rebounds, 3 steals
Alphonso Anderson – 17 points, 14 rebounds, 2 blocks

Rainier Beach
Shadeed Shabazz – 22 points
De’Jounte Murray – 15 points, 13 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 blocks

Federal Way Wins Mismatch 4A Boys State Title

Posted on March 10, 2015 by colincarusoZUMA

Federal Way Wins Mismatch 4A Boys State Title
By Colin Caruso

Saturday March 7	2015	Boys	4A	State Final
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Davis	16	5	11	14	46
Federal Way	20	12	15	18	65

Federal Way Eagles

Let’s get something straight to start this game. This game was the 4A state final. These two teams met on December 6th and Federal Way beat Davis 88-43. I will write that twice for emphasis. 88-43. At Davis High School. A win for Davis would be the biggest, and I mean biggest, in high school basketball history.

Don’t worry, it didn’t happen.

Davis was outmatched at every position on the floor. Not only outmatched but also significantly outsized. But the Pirates hung tough in the first quarter, only trailing by four after one.

Federal Way was able to extend their lead on the back of poor shooting and questionable execution on offense from the Pirates. They resorted to far too many jump shots and did not run any sets in the half court. There were too many possessions of either one or no passes and then a ridiculous shot. Federal Way led 32-21 at the half.

Federal Way kicked off the second half with an 11-2 run to extend their lead to 20, the largest of the game. That lead would be cut to 15 to end the quarter, 47-32.

Davis would come as close as 12 in the fourth quarter. Hats off to them, this was much more of a contest than their 45 point loss to the Eagles in December. Balanced scoring from the Eagles allowed them to finish off a 65-46 victory.

Top Performer:
Federal Way
Jalen McDaniels – 16 points 8 rebounds

Gonzaga Prep Wins 2 OT State Finals Thriller

Posted on March 10, 2015 by colincarusoZUMA

Gonzaga Prep Wins 2 OT State Finals Thriller
By Colin Caruso

Saturday	March 7	2015	Girls	4A	State	Final
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	OT	2OT	Final
Inglemoor	4	15	14	12	4	3	52
Gonzaga Prep	15	16	12	2	4	8	57

Gonzaga Prep Bullpups

Gonzaga Prep was back in the state finals, defending their title against the Vikings of Inglemoor in 4A girls basketball. This was a classic contest of size vs. speed, with Gonzaga Prep possessing the speed, and Inglemoor living in the paint on both ends of the floor.

Inglemoor star Deja Strother got into foul trouble early, forcing her to sit for a good portion of the first quarter, a first quarter that Gonzaga Prep controlled. Inglemoor had a tough time finding the basket and trailed 15-4 after one.

Inglemoor’s offense opened up in the second quarter, distributing the ball more effectively and getting easy looks at the basket. Strother stayed out of foul trouble and was able to provide 11 points in the first half. But Gonzaga Prep was dominating the pace of play, and it was uptempo. Laura Stockton had eight points in the first half and Otiona Gildon added ten to take a 31-19 lead into the locker room.

Gonzaga Prep slowed their offense down in the third quarter, much to the chagrin of their coach. The speed change allowed Inglemoor to setup in the half court and control the paint. This allowed Inglemoor to go on a 9-2 run to start the quarter. Coach Arte of the Bullpups called a timeout to regroup, and it proved to work. His Bullpups responded and took a 10 point lead into the fourth.

Alex Hagen for the Vikings put in the first eight points of the fourth quarter to electrify the Inglemoor crowd. Down just two, the comeback was on. The run extended to 12-0, and Inglemoor took their first lead of the game. Laura Stockton stopped the bleeding with 30 seconds to go, the Bullpups first points of the quarter. That proved to be the last bucket of regulation and this game went to OT.

The Bullpups struck first in overtime with two free throws, answered by one free throw from the Vikings. With just 1:45 to play, the Bullpups held a one point lead.

The scoring subsided until 30 seconds remaining, when Strother hit a layup and was fouled. She hit the free throw, putting the Vikings up two. Stockton drove the lane on Gonzaga Prep’s next possession and found Gildon for an easy two to tie the game. Double overtime!

Gildon struck first from the line for the Bullpups, hitting one of two. Tayler Drynan followed up with a three for Gonzaga Prep to extend the lead to 4, but the Vikings came right back with a three of their own.

Another one for two trip for the Bullpups, followed by an offensive rebound gave them the ball back with one minute to play. Oona Harrington knocked down a jumper for the Bullpups to go up four, and that jumper would seal it. The Bullpups won 57-52! Congratulations Gonzaga Prep Girls!

Top Performers:
Inglemoor
Deja Strother 22 points, 8 rebounds

Gonzaga Prep
Otiona Gildon – 17 points, 11 rebounds
Laura Stockton – 13 points , 9 steals

Beach Cruises to Another State Final

Posted on March 7, 2015 by colincarusoZUMA

Beach Cruises to Another State Final
By Colin Caruso

Friday February 7th	2015	Boys	3A	State
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Rainier Beach	22	4	13	22	61
Eastside Catholic	10	7	10	6	33

Rainier Beach Senior Dejounte Murray

The big question most coaches ask when facing the back, to back, to back, state champs, “What can we do to stop them?” Coach Bill Liley and his Eastside Catholic Crusaders were faced with that question on Friday night in the Tacoma Dome.

The Crusaders fell to the mighty Rainier Beach Vikings twice during the regular season, both times by double digits. The goal of this contest was to keep Rainier Beach out of transition, force a half-court game, and knock down shots.

Unfortunately for the Crusaders, they were unable to keep Beach out of transition, and struggled from the perimeter. Rainier Beach took a 22-10 lead into the second, backed by an emphatic De’Jounte Murray alley-oop slam.

Rainier Beach failed to score for the first six minutes of the second quarter. This obviously played into the Crusaders hands, who started the quarter on a 7-0 run. In a low scoring second, Beach took a 26-17 lead into the break.

With the first six points in the third quarter, the Crusaders turned this into anybody’s game. Down just three, Eastside had the momentum and the Vikings struggles from the floor did not subside. But the shooting woes that plagued the Vikings transferred to the Crusaders, and they finished the third quarter with just 27 points.

Beach rolled in the fourth. Ivy Smith and Shadeed Shabazz began to knock down jumpers for the Vikings, as they extended their lead to as many as 28. Rainier Beach won the game 61-33, finishing the game on a 16-2 run. They will face off against the Bulldogs of Garfield for the 3A state title.

Top Performer:
Rainier Beach
De’Jounte Murray – 16 points, 14 rebounds, 3 steals

Garfield’s Big First Half Leads to Win Over Seattle Prep

Posted on March 7, 2015 by colincarusoZUMA

Garfield’s Big First Half Leads to Win Over Seattle Prep
By Colin Caruso

Friday February 7th	2015	Boys	3A	State
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Seattle Prep	17	13	17	13	60
Garfield	25	21	7	11	64

Garfield Bulldogs

Coaches will always tell you it is difficult to beat a team three times. The fate of the Bulldogs lay in those circumstances Friday night, as the final four teams in 3A boys all came from the same league, the Seattle Metro league.

This matchup is distinctly size versus speed. The Panthers start three players over 6 foot 7 and the Bulldogs don’t have a single player above 6 foot 6. But speed has prevailed in their previous matchups, with the Bulldogs controlling the pace and the game.

The speedy Bulldogs set the pace early, amassing 19 points to the Panthers nine in under five minutes of play. But back to back threes by the Panthers put them right back in the game. Garfield held an eight point lead going into the second.

The eight point lead ballooned to 20 quickly, with seemingly every player on Garfield getting in on the action. Coach Haskins uncharacteristically used ten players in the first half. His team is typically 5-6 deep, but he opened up his bench and let them roll over the Panthers in the first half. They led by as many as 24 in the second, but the Panthers cut it to 46-30 at the half.

Garfield’s heat in the first half turned to ice in the third. They scored just four points in the first six minutes of the quarter, allowing the Panthers to cut the lead to eight. The bleeding continued to for the Bulldogs, as there seemed to be a seal over their basket. The Panthers trailed by just six entering the fourth.

Prep kept their momentum early in the fourth. A Colin Welp three for the Panthers cut the Garfield lead to just three, 56-53 with 5:30 to play. The three point lead was maintained for the next three minutes as neither team was able to convert on the offensive end. Jaylen Nowell broke the cold streak with a pair of free-throws to push Garfield up 60-55 with 1:30 on the clock. Aaron Nettles responded for the Panthers with a mid-range jumper, cutting the lead back down to three with under one minute to play.

Nowell answered again for the Bulldogs, converting on a spin move floater off the glass to extend the lead back to five with 32 seconds on the clock. The ensuing possession resulted in another Welp three pointer, electrifying the Panther crowd, now just down 2 with 10 seconds to go. The Panthers, forced to foul, fouled Terrell Brown, who hit both free throws, icing the game with a four point lead. A Jack Stewart three for the Panthers missed just long, and the Bulldogs took the contest 64-60.

Top Performers:
Seattle Prep
Jack Stewart and J’Raan Brooks – 16 points each

Garfield
Jaylen Nowell – 21 points
Alphonso Anderson – 16 points, 10 rebounds, 4 steals

Federal Way Claws Their Way to a State Final

Posted on March 7, 2015 by colincarusoZUMA

Federal Way Claws their way to a State Final
By Colin Caruso

Friday February 7th	2015	Boys	4A	State
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Federal Way	26	14	11	10	61
Union	7	20	19	12	58

Federal Way Eagles

In a much deserving matchup of two of the top teams in the state, the Union Titans faced off against the Federal Way Eagles, with an opportunity to face Davis in the 4A state finals. Davis would be a favorable matchup for the Eagles, who doubled up the Pirates early in the year, 88-43.

This game got out of control early. The athleticism of the Eagles was far too much for a one loss Union team to handle. Before anyone in the Tacoma Dome knew what was going on, Federal Way was off to a 23-6 lead and closed the first at 26-7.

Union finally woke up in the second quarter. Coach Conley emphasized defense and taking care of the basketball and that focus brought Union within 12. Unfortunately, they still could not stop Viont’e Daniels. He was in complete control of the first half and at one point had as many points (18) as Union had as a team. The Eagles led by 13, 40-27 at the half.

If you are down 13 at the half and are completely outmatched in both the half court and transition, it pays dividends to come out in the second half with more intensity than your opposition. That is what the Titans did, going on an 8-2 run to start the third, cutting the Eagle lead to just seven. Their momentum continued in the third quarter, and for some reason, Federal Way took their foot off the gas pedal and began to coast offensively. It was a close game going into the fourth, with the Federal Way lead down to just five points.

An immediate three to start the fourth from Micah Paulson of the Titans pulled Union within two points. Two free-throws by Paulson with 6 minutes remaining tied the game, the first tie since the game began. After a few back and forth possessions, Riley Hawken found himself at the line with 2:18 left, shooting two and down two. He made one, and the Eagles led 59-58. Ferron Flavors hit one free-throw for the Eagles to push the lead up to two, 60-58. A beautiful block by Jalen McDaniels gave Federal Way the ball back, but a steal by Hawken put the ball back in the Titans hands with 44 seconds remaining.

Without knowing the time remaining on the shot clock, Union turned the ball over and immediately fouled Christian Jones. Jones missed the front end, but the Eagles pulled an offensive rebound and got the ball to their star, Viont’e Daniels. He also missed the front end, giving Union a chance at the win with a rebound. Paulson got it for the Titans, pulled up for a transition three with 10 seconds remaining and missed everything, rebounded by the Eagles. Jones made one of two, giving the Titans yet another opportunity to tie, but this time Cameron Cranston’s three missed just left, and the Eagles pulled the hang on victory 61-58.

Top Performers:
Federal Way
Viont’e Daniels – 27 points

Union
Micah Paulson – 18 points 5 assists
Riley Hawken – 14 points 11 rebounds

The Pirates Amass a Huge Comeback, Top Woodinville

Posted on March 7, 2015 by colincarusoZUMA

The Pirates Amass a Huge Comeback, Top Woodinville
By Colin Caruso

Friday February 7th	2015	Boys	4A	State
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Woodinville	16	8	16	12	52
Davis	13	6	19	25	63

Davis Pirates

In this matchup of two great teams, the Woodinville Mustangs matched up against a Davis Pirate team, fortunate to ride their momentum that far into the tournament. Squeaking by Gig Harbor and fortunately not having to play Wenatchee, they found themselves in the 4A state semifinal with a legitimate shot at the finals. Their lack of size played a factor early, as Woodinville controlled the glass and paint for the majority of the first half.

Both of these teams struggled offensively in the second quarter. Davis, with senior star Max Jones in foul trouble, were able to score just six points in the frame. Fortunately, their defense stayed tough, and they held the Mustangs to eight.

Pick it up in the third quarter, Max Jones commits his fourth foul and Woodinville gets a leakout basket to go up 11, momentum 100% in favor of the Mustangs. But The Pirates pulled off six straight points to cut the lead to 5, and Woodinville cooled off from the field dramatically. Davis committed 7 fouls in 4.5 minutes, somehow putting the Mustangs in the bonus early in the third. Woodinville failed to attack the basket and continue to win the game from the line, giving Davis a chance to gain the lead going into the 4th. But an ill-advised early shot in the shot clock leads to a transition bucket for the Mustangs. The Pirates trailed by just 2 entering the fourth.

Davis continued their momentum into the fourth, scoring the first eight points in the quarter to take a six point lead. Woodinville was stride for stride with the Pirates until Micah Johnson, the Woodinville point guard, picked up two fouls in less than 30 seconds to disqualify him from the game. From there, it was all Davis. Max Jones and Nick Navarro carried the way for the Pirates, propelling them to 63-52 win.

Top Performers:
Woodinville
Tony Miller – 20 points, 12 rebounds, 2 blocks

Davis
Nick Navarro – 20 points 6 rebounds

Lakeside Controls 2nd and 3rd Quarter, Rolls Against Mercer Island

Posted on March 7, 2015 by colincarusoZUMA

Lakeside Controls 2nd and 3rd Quarter, Rolls Against Mercer Island
By Colin Caruso

Friday February 20	2015	Boys	3A	Metro
Bellevue College	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Lakeside	13	19	20	16	68
Mercer Island	17	5	11	21	54

Most games in high school basketball do not have the pressure of a loser out game. To both of these teams, a loss marks the end of the season and looking towards next year.

Mercer Island, the underdog in this game, came out in the first quarter with a masterful game plan. Knowing that they would have trouble guarding Daejon Davis and Isiah Brown in transition, they focused on using the duration of the shot clock and slowing the game dramatically. The athleticism favored Lakeside, and Mercer Island’s only hope was to control the tempo.

The Islanders looked great in the first quarter. A 12-2 run in the first gave the Islanders a 17-13 lead going into the second. And then the wheels fell off. Fast forwarding to the second quarter, the Lions began getting into transition and finding Kiki Boyle on open threes; he hit 6 on the day. The closed the quarter on a 12-0 run, and extended that to 19-2 into the third.

16 points in a quarter is a good amount of points for a high school team. When you score 16 points over the course of two quarters, against a team from the Metro conference, you are in trouble. The shots that fell for the Islanders in the first were not falling in the second and third. The turnovers piled up, and the Islanders found themselves down 19 points entering the fourth quarter.

Mercer Island never gave up, they continued to battle in the fourth. Unfortunately, the deficit was insurmountable against a team as defensively strong as the Lions. Lakeside took this game, ending the Islander season, by a final of 68-54

Top Performers:
Lakeside
Isiah Brown – 31 points
Kiki Boyle – 20 points

Mercer Island
Sam Nordale and Andrew Pickles – 14 points each

The #1 Bulldogs Handle Seattle Prep, Advance to Metro Final

Posted on February 12, 2015 by colincarusoZUMA

The #1 Bulldogs Handle Seattle Prep, Advance to Metro Final
By Colin Caruso

Wednesday February 11	2015	Boys	3A	Metro
Ingraham High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Seattle Prep	14	11	15	9	49
Garfield	20	14	16	14	64

Seattle Prep knew they were in for a tough matchup when facing the #1 3A ranked team in the state, the 4A defending champion Garfield Bulldogs. Garfield came out swinging early in the first frame of this contest, putting up a cool 20 on the Panthers, who had no match for the speed and quickness of the Bulldogs. But Prep would not go down without a fight, scoring 14 points on the back of Collin Welp’s 7 to trail by just six going into the second.

The first five minutes of the second quarter all belonged to Seattle Prep. The Panthers zone defense was stifling to the quicker but smaller Bulldogs. Prep cut the Bulldog lead to just one, 26-25 with three minutes to play in the half. But the Bulldogs responded, as they normally do, with a commanding 8-0 run to end the first half with a nine point lead.

Garfield extended their lead again in the third quarter, with sophomores Jashaun Agosto and Jaylen Nowell leading the charge. Prep continued to hang around, but the Bulldogs were in control.

The fourth quarter came down to the final three minutes, with the Bulldogs clinging to a six point lead. Prep could really never get over that barrier, as Agosto forced two late turnovers that sealed the contest for the Bulldogs, 64-49. What a great game!

Top Performers:
Seattle Prep
J’Raan Brooks – 12 points
Jack Stewart and Collin Welp – 11 points

Garfield
Jaylen Nowell – 22 points
Jashaun Agosto – 21 points
Alphonso Anderson – 16 points

Rainier Beach Advances to Metro Final

Posted on February 12, 2015 by colincarusoZUMA

Rainier Beach Advances to Metro Final
By Colin Caruso

Wednesday February 11	2015	Boys	3A	Metro
Ingraham High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Eastside Catholic	16	17	14	13	60
Rainier Beach	24	20	18	17	79

With a trip to the coveted Metro final at stake, the Rainier Beach Vikings and Eastside Catholic Crusaders clashed at Ingraham High School in front of a packed house. Rainier Beach was a clear favorite in this game, the three time state champs are always ready for the toughest competition in the state.

Beach demonstrated their #2 in state ranking by putting up 24 points in the first quarter. On the back of unbelievable shooting by Shadeed Shabazz and DeJounte Murray, the Crusaders had no response for the shot making and athleticism displayed by the Vikings.

The second quarter was not much better for Eastside Catholic, who struggled defensively and struggled bringing the ball up the floor. Rainier Beach’s lateral quickness is rivaled by only Garfield’s, and it is difficult for any team to bring the ball up against Ivy Smith. Beach extended their lead in the second and took an 11 point lead into halftime.

Eastside began to come back early in the third, cutting the lead to just six points midway through the frame. But the Vikings always had answers, Shabazz and Murray were seemingly un-guardable throughout the contest.

The game turned into more of a blowout later in the fourth, with the Vikings walking away with a comfortable 79-60 win.

Top Performers:
Eastside Catholic
Mandrell Worthy – 16 points
Max Hudgins – 15 points
Andrew Padilla – 14 points

Rainier Beach
DeJounte Murray – 27 points
Shadeed Shabazz – 24 points

Rainier Beach Handles Prep on Senior Night

Posted on February 12, 2015 by colincarusoZUMA

Rainier Beach Handles Prep on Senior Night
By Colin Caruso

Friday February 6	2015	Boys	3A	Metro
Rainier Beach High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Seattle Prep	16	9	11	18	54
Rainier Beach	14	18	20	9	61

In a clash of titans in the metro league, the Seattle Prep Panthers traveled south to take on the Rainier Beach Vikings. Both teams walked into this contest with 16 wins under their belt, clearly putting themselves in the elite conversation for Metro and for state in 3A hoops.

Prep started the game on a great run, capitalizing on the size mismatches they bring to every game. It is tough for a high school team to matchup against three starters that all measure 6’8″, and that is what the state has to be prepared for against the Panthers.

Prep got off to an early lead, stemmed by a 10-0 run and Jack Stewart’s 2 three pointers. But Beach battled back to trail the first quarter by just two, closing the quarter on a 35 foot bank shot by Washington commit DeJounte Murray.

Beach began to put their foot on the gas in the second quarter. Ivy Smith and Shadeed Shabazz forced numerous turnovers in the Panther backcourt, leading to easy layups and dunks. The second and third quarter were a little messy for the Panthers, who only put up 20 points total against Beach’s 38.

But Prep would not stop battling. Beach assumed they had the game in hand with such a comfortable lead in the fourth, but the Panthers scratched and clawed to cut the lead to just 4 with under two minutes to play. The Vikings again stepped up with their tenacious defense, forced two critical turnovers, and sealed the win with a 61-54 final.

Top Performers:
Seattle Prep
J’Raan Brooks – 14 points
Jack Stewart – 14 points

Rainier Beach
DeJounte Murray – 16 points
Vincenzo Reiser – 15 points

Garfield Remains Unbeaten, Tops Lakeside

Posted on January 16, 2015 by colincarusoZUMA

Garfield Remains Unbeaten, Tops Lakeside
By Colin Caruso

Friday- January 9	2015	Boys	3A	Metro
Garfield High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Lakeside	23	12	18	14	67
Garfield	15	17	23	28	83

With Lorenzo Romar in the house, watching two of Seattle’s and Washington State’s finest, the Garfield Bulldogs overcame an early deficit but pulled away late to claim their 12th win of the year.

Lakeside started this game on fire, Isiah Brown had 8 points in the first quarter and Daejon Davis had 9, propelling the Lions to a 23-15 lead after one. In speaking with a Lakeside coach after the game, this was one of their best quarters of basketball all year long.

But the scoring slowed down in the second for the Lions, and the Bulldogs began to heat up. A 35-33 halftime lead for Lakeside meant that they needed to come out with a third quarter like their first quarter to keep the momentum.

Garfield began their 3/4 court triangle trap to begin the second half. This caused fits for the Lions, who’s turnovers led to easy leak out baskets for Jashaun Agosto and Jaylen Nowell. Garfield took their first lead with 4:09 remaining in the third, and did not look back from there.

The points came easily to the Bulldogs in the fourth quarter, 28 in total in just 8 minutes. Alphonso Anderson proved his worth scoring 6 in the last frame, as the Bulldogs rolled to remain undefeated on the year.

The Final Score: Garfield 83, Lakeside 67

Top Performers:
Lakeside
Isiah Brown and Isaiah de la Fuente – 17 points

Garfield
Alphonso Anderson – 18 points
Jashaun Agosto – 21 points

Bothell! Bothell! Bothell! 4A Champions!

Posted on December 7, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec. 6	2014	4A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Bothell	10	0	14	0	24
Chiawana	0	0	7	7	14

Game Recap below

Bothell! Bothell! Bothell! 4A Champions!
By Colin Caruso

In a game that had the Tacoma Dome on the edge of their seats throughout, the Bothell Cougars proved they were the best team in 4A Washington State football with an amazing win over the defending champions, Chiawana Riverhawks. Knowing full well that Chiawana won the title last year by scoring 14 points in the final minute of the game, Bothell had to keep the pressure on the Riverhawks for the full 48 minutes of play.

Bothell began the game with a stifling first half. Caleb Meyer rushed for a TD on their opening drive, and the Cougar defense closed the door for the next 21 minutes of football. Cougar defensive linemen were living in the Chiawana backfield; Riverhawk quarterback Logan Ellsworth spent the first half running for his life.

When the Riverhawks finally broke deep into Bothell territory late in the second quarter, the Cougars intercepted Ellsworth in the end zone to end the first half. Bothell took a 10-0 lead into the locker room.

The second half started with another great defensive stop for the Cougars, forcing a punt and scoring on that ensuing possession. It would be Ross Bowers only touchdown pass of the day, this to Dayzell Wilson to take a commanding 17-7 lead.

But the Riverhawks would not go down easy, responding with a Austin Urlacher touchdown run to cut the lead to 10 late in the third.

Bothell responded in the most magnificent way. They drove 63 yards in just over 3 minutes, and scored on the best play of the year. Ross Bowers, on a third and goal saw pay dirt on a scramble. He rushed to the left and leaped for the end zone, ball extended. He flipped over a Riverhawk defender, flew about 5 feet in the air, and secured the landing on both feet for a Cougar score. The Bothell sideline exploded. It was one of the most courageous efforts from a quarterback, who knew he wanted to lead his team to victory.

Even with this demoralizing score, the Riverhawks found a way to respond. Cortez Ruiz caught a 37 yard strike just 3 minutes later to again trim the lead to 10 points. But Bothell would not stop fighting on defense. Their next possession resulted in a punt, and the Cougars again stifled the Riverhawk attack. After forcing a turnover on downs, the Cougars close the game in the victory formation, winning their first ever state championship.

The FinalScore – Bothell 24, Chiawana 14.

Top Performers:
Bothell
Ross Bowers – 17-19 for 216 yards and 1TD, rushing TD
Caleb Meyer – 12 carries for 105 yards and 1TD

Chiawana
Austin Urlacher – 21 carries for 101 yards and 1TD

Sedro-Woolley Dominates 2A State Title Game

Posted on December 7, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec. 6	2014	2A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Sedro-Woolley	7	7	14	14	42
Okanogan	0	6	7	0	13

Game Recap below

Sedro-Woolley Dominates 2A State Title Game
By Colin Caruso

The Sedro-Woolley Cubs suffered one loss this season on October 24th to the defending state champion Lynden Lions. They met that same Lynden Lions club in the state finals at the Tacoma Dome, and the result was much different.

A second half to remember for the Cubs, who outscored Lynden 28-7 on their way to a 42-13 route over a team that had won four of the last six 2A state titles.

After Lynden scored at the end of the third quarter to close the lead to 28-13, the Cubs sidelined quieted down, knowing that their best season ever was within striking distance. The Lions then forced a turnover on Sedro-Woolley’s next drive, causing more fear in the hearts of the massive Cubs crowd. But Carter Crosby saved the day, literally. He intercepted Sterling Somers, Somers’ third interception thrown, and returned it 21 yards for a Cubs touchdown.

The score propelled the lead to 35-13 early in the fourth, and the entire town of Sedro-Woolley could feel the victory. They would add another score on a Quinn Carpenter run, his second of the game, to amount the blowout win.

The story of the game, however, was the Cubs defense. Allowing just 264 total yards and intercepting Lynden quarterbacks five times, propelled Sedro-Woolley to lifting the state championship trophy.

The FinalScore – Sedro-Woolley 42, Lynden 13.

Top Performers:
Sedro-Woolley
Quinn Carpenter – 17 carries for 88 yards and 2TD
Carter Crosby – 11 carries for 68 yards and 1TD, Interception TD

Lynden
Scooter Hastings – 7 catches for 78 yards, TD pass

The Mighty have Fallen; Eastside Catholic Ends Bellevue’s Reign

Posted on December 6, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Dec. 5th	2014	3A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Bellevue	7	6	0	0	13
Eastside Catholic	0	14	7	14	35

Game Recap below

The Mighty have Fallen; Eastside Catholic Ends Bellevue’s Reign
By Steven Dion

Since 2001, Butch Goncharoff has led Bellevue to 11 of 13 state championships including the previous six consecutive titles. Defeating the Wolverines has taken truly special teams in their era of dominance. Eastside Catholic coach Jeremy Thielbahr had his sights set on becoming the next challenger to the 3A crown and had his fair share of growing pains in the process including back-to-back defeats by Bellevue in the 2012 and 2013 championship games.

The Crusaders and Wolverines steamrolled through their seasons to find themselves playing December football once again. The first two title games these teams played were blowouts in the favor of Bellevue. Everyone at the Tacoma Dome witnessed another lopsided result, but this had a different tune.

Per usual, the Wolverines scored a touchdown on their opening drive, a 5 yard Sam Richmond touchdown run. Playing from behind is never a good way to start against a team approaching its 68th consecutive victory. The Crusaders managed to strike back with a 9 yard touchdown scamper by Brandon Wellington who would score twice more in the contest. Less than a minute later, Isaiah Gilchrist ran a reverse 56 yards to the house to regain the lead. The Wolverines botched the extra point which appeared to give EC a dose of confidence after conceding a big scoring play. The half would close with several read option runs by Crusader quarterback Harley Kirsch which moved the chains and set up a 6 yard strike to Hunter Bryant to give the underdogs a halftime lead.

Bellevue’s commitment to the run was an unsuccessful endeavor in the second half as the Eastside defensive line grew stronger and more aggressive. Justus Rogers had three pass attempts in the game, none of which were completed. Midway through the third, Kirsch found Devon Arbis-Jackson on a short pass which he carried several defenders with him to the goal line for the score. Leading 21-13, the possibility of an upset was becoming a reality. The Wolverines ineptitude on offense was alarming as they ran only 25 offensive plays to EC’s 83 and did not convert a single third or fourth down. The total yard figures were 158 to 414 in favor of the Crusaders.

Early in the fourth quarter Brandon Wellington put Eastside up by two scores on a 1 yard dive play. On the ensuing kickoff, EC recovered the football. Eleven plays later, Wellington was in the end zone again to ice the game. There was 4:18 left on the clock at this point, but leading 35-13, Eastside’s sideline was starting to realize what they had accomplished. Bellevue’s offense was stalled one final time and ECHS was able to run down the clock at their discretion.

When the scoreboard read 0:00, waves of joy, shock, and disappointment were felt throughout the Tacoma Dome as Eastside Catholic defeated Bellevue in convincing fashion. Coach Goncharoff said the better team won the game and he was concerned going into the game about being undersized at the line. Winning coach Jeremy Thielbahr said they had to create an entirely new offensive scheme which Bellevue hadn’t seen them do before. The 3A crown is taking a short trip east to the Issaquah plateau for a year, and maybe more.

Top Performers:
Eastside Catholic
Harley Kirsch-20/22, 188 passing yards and 2TD, 94 rushing yards
Brandon Wellington-33 rushes, 110 yards, 3 touchdowns

Sedro-Woolley Faces off Against Lynden for 2A State Final

Posted on December 5, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Sedro-Woolley Faces off Against Lynden for 2A State Final
By Steven Dion

The 2A final appears to have the best chance of becoming an instant classic. The interesting storylines heading into this game are seemingly endless. Lynden has won the last 3 titles including six of the previous 8 whereas Sedro-Woolley is in rare territory playing December football. Both teams hail from the highly competitive Northwest League that produce hotly contested games in the regular season. They squared off at Lynden on October 24th and the home team escaped with a 33-30 victory. I caught up with Dave Ward this week and he said Lynden’s ability to create a half-dozen big plays was a key factor in the first go-around and will be a point of emphasis on Saturday. Based on the quarterfinal and semifinal games, expect an enormous sea of blue in support of S-W and likewise for the Lions.

The playmakers that are bound to make a splash in this contest include Sterling Somers (QB) and his favorite targets Jordan Wittenberg and Scooter Hastings who stands 6’7”. The Lynden defense has been slightly more porous than in recent years allowing opponents to push them including a rare loss against Ferndale in mid-December. The Cubs boast a dynamic offensive weapon in Mason Elms who appears to play every position on the field. If he and fellow tailback Carter Crosby can tally over 80 yards on the ground and find the end zone, the Cubs have a good shot.

The strength of Sedro-Woolley is their linebacking corps. The speed and tenacity of Chad Wilburg, Jacob Farrell, and Jay Burger has the ability to hold talented offenses like Lynden, but will they put it together on Saturday to take down the champ? The action takes place on Saturday at 1pm at the Tacoma Dome.

1A State Finals Preview, Colville vs. Cascade Christian

Posted on December 5, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

1A State Finals Preview, Colville vs. Cascade Christian
By Steven Dion

Saturday will mark the fifth time since 2008 that Cascade Christian has played for a 1A state title with the Cougs from the Puyallup Valley claiming the hardware in ’10. The senior class for CCHS is loaded and appears to have the pieces to overturn the close-calls in recent years. Colville will present a hefty challenge though as the Indians have had an impressive run in ’14 en route to their first state championship appearance. There was a 4 game stretch midway through the season where Randy Cornwell’s team outscored opponents 191-7! Colton Vining’s ability to run the ball against a Cougar defense unit which packs a punch in addition to its speed with the likes of Mason Tobeck and Riley Ramos will be an interesting matchup.

The ability of Colville to stop the rushing attack of Zach Bartolome and Robert Terhune who tallied 310 yards on the ground last week will also dictate the outcome of this contact. I talked to CCHS head coach Randy Davis this week and he mentioned how his team used last year’s overtime loss in the semis as motivation to get in the weight room to take care of unfinished business in 2014. Quarterback Jaelin Goldsmith is playing his best football when it matters most and has his sights set on repeating a similar performance as last week when he threw for 235 yards and 4 touchdowns. So far, the extra work has paid dividends, but he also said in his few game tapes of Colville understands the challenge ahead of his team Saturday morning. A long road trip across the state and a chance to grab the first state title in school history is certainly enough motivation for a hungry Colville squad.

2B State Finals Preview, Napavine vs. Okanogan

Posted on December 5, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

2B State Finals Preview, Napavine vs. Okanogan
By Steven Dion

The Gridiron Classic kicks off with an intriguing 2B matchup with Okanogan and Napavine. The Bulldogs from the northeast corner of Washington made a statement in the semifinals by pitching a shutout against the 2-time defending champions in Lind-Ritzville-Sprague by the score of 34-0. Okanogan had a fluky loss to Brewster midway through the season, but beat the Bears by four touchdowns the second time the two met up. Napavine dominated Toledo in many key statistical categories last week in the semis, but advanced with a slim six point margin. The Tigers accumulated 346 total yards in the contest and nearly doubled the Indians in plays and first downs.

One thing that Josh Fay may emphasize to his team is not allowing Okanogan to sneak back into the contest late if NHS holds a lead. The combo of Taylor Hicks to Grant McEwen was very effective last Saturday which may lead to more that 11 pass attempts for the Tigers signal-caller in the 2B championship. The last time either of these teams appeared in the championship game was 2008 when Napavine claimed the title. If Okanogan can channel the dominance they demonstrated last weekend, they will be one tough customer. Bringing the hardware home would certainly make the 12 hour round trip for Steve Chamberlain and his Bulldogs well worth it.

1B State Finals Preview, Neah Bay vs. Liberty-Christian

Posted on December 5, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

1B State Finals Preview, Neah Bay vs. Liberty-Christian
By Steven Dion

A clash of the 2012 and 2013 state champs. Neah Bay is the defending champion and winner of 2 in the last 3 seasons. Liberty-Christian defeated Neah Bay to capture the title in 2012 on the final play of the contest. I spoke with the head coach of the Red Devils Tony McCaulley this week and that game was certainly discussed this week to fire up his team, especially upperclassmen that played in the game. McCaulley’s team was tested by Lummi to reach the finals as they were limited to 213 total yards and lost 3 fumbles in a 26-20 win. The Red Devil defense also show signs of vulnerability as Lummi’s three trips to the red zone all resulted in scores. 40 of NBHS’s 45 plays were rushes, so Cole Svec and Reggie Buttram’s ability to move the football with their legs will be important.

Liberty Christian defeated Republic by the score of 46-20 en route to a state final berth. The score doesn’t fully indicate how dominant the Patriots were in this contest. Mike Olson’s team had a four touchdown lead before the Tigers even got on the board. John Lesser was responsible for 6 touchdowns, three by air and three by ground. Both teams have championship experience so it would not be a surprise to see a tight game decided in the fourth quarter. Looking forward to this game at 4 pm on Saturday night.

4A State Finals Preview, Bothell vs. Chiawana

Posted on December 5, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

4A State Finals Preview, Bothell vs. Chiawana
By Colin Caruso

Talk about the matchup of the year in this one. The Bothell Cougars, widely regarded as the top team in 4A all season long, facing off against the defending champions, the Chiawana Riverhawks. I had the unbelievable privilege to watch the Riverhawks in the state final last year, in the best comeback in Washington state football history. Down 13 points with 1 minute to play, the Riverhawks pulled off a miracle victory over the Camas Papermakers. I have never felt so much remorse for a losing team, a team that played perfectly all season and 47 minutes in the championship game, but couldn’t close the door on a team driven by a tenacious defensive line and a quarterback with a will to win.

But this is a new season, and a new team for the Riverhawks. And their competition is tested and ready for battle. The Cougars have looked unbeatable all year. Bothell quarterback Ross Conners is looking like one of the top QBs in the state, but the loss of star running back Sam McPherson may prove costly. Chiawana had the best defensive line in 4A last year, and returned three of those starters last season.

Look for another spectacular game and finish in this one. Chiawana has just one loss this season, to the Papermakers of Camas. Bothell is undefeated and deservedly so, they have outscored their opponents 597-133 on the year. Who will lift the trophy in Tacoma? Come join the action on Saturday night, December 6th, at 7:30pm.

3A State Finals Preview, Bellevue vs. Eastside Catholic Round 3

Posted on December 5, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

3A State Finals Preview, Bellevue vs. Eastside Catholic Round 3
By Colin Caruso

The Bellevue Wolverines have won 67 straight games, a streak that goes back to 2010 when Mat Taylor’s Skyline Spartans topped them in a regular season contest. They routinely schedule games against the top teams out of state, this year against Serra (CA), and routinely pull off convincing victories. They are dominate, fast, big and strong. The Wolverines are in search of their 7th consecutive state title, and standing in their way is the Eastside Catholic Crusaders.

Eastside showed their grit last year in advancing past the O’Dea Fighting Irish to the state finals, to meet the Wolverines in a 425 clash. The game wasn’t much of a contest, coinciding with the Wolverines season, and ended in a 52-20 route. This year will prove to be much closer than that. One of the states finest running backs, Brandon Wellington, is now a junior and is playing the best football of his life. Junior quarterback Harley Kirsch is also a year older, more mature, and is prepared for a matchup against one of the finest teams in the nation.

The big question at hand, are the Wolverines vulnerable? They showed hints of vulnerability last week against Marysville-Pilchuck. Can the Cru’ end the streak? I don’t think it’s in the cards just yet, but hey, it has to happen sometime, right?

Sedro-Woolley Marches to State Final

Posted on December 1, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Nov. 29	2014	2A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Tumwater	0	7	14	6	27
Sedro-Woolley	7	7	7	7	28

Game Recap below

Sedro-Woolley Marches to State Final
By Colin Caruso

When taking on a Tumwater Thunderbird squad with Sid Otten at the helm, the winning-est coach in Washington state history, you know you need to bring your ‘A’ game in order to contend. Strangely enough in this game, it was the team with the fewer mistakes that was able to prevail. An unbelievable 7 turnovers in the first half, seemingly no one wanted the football, led to a 14-7 lead for the Sedro-Woolley Cubs going into the half.

Finally the teams settled down, took care of the football, and we saw some of the finest high school football of the season in the second half. Sid Otten called a fake punt early in the third quarter that led to a Ian Saner touchdown run on the next play, his second of three on the day, to tie the game up at 14. But the Cubs answered quckly. A 4 play march, topped off by a Quinn Carpenter 35 yard run, put the Cubs back on top, 21-14.

Ian Saner wouldn’t let it stay at that score, and punched in another touchdown late in the third to tie the game back up at 21. After a series of punts, Mason Elms, a quarterback/wide receiver/running back/wing back for the Cubs stormed down the far sideline for a 24 yard score. About the score, Elms mentioned, “I wasn’t planning on scoring.” But he did, and he put his team ahead midway through the fourth quarter.

Tumwater would answer with a Griffin Shea score, but the kick missed left, and Tumwater found themselves trailing 28-17 with under 3 minutes to play.

The T-birds forced a 3 and out and drove down to the Cubs 22 yard line. There they set up for a 39 yard field goal. The Cubs line broke through the Thunderbird line on the attempt, and Elijah Hill’s kick was blocked with less than 20 seconds remaining. The Cubs recovered, kneeled out the clock, and advanced to the state finals.

A GREAT game back and forth between two deserving teams. Congratulations to Sedro-Woolley for advancing to the Gridiron Classic.

The FinalScore – Sedro-Woolley 28, Tumwater 27.

Top Performers:
Tumwater
Ian Saner – 18 carries for 91 yards and 3 TD

Sedro-Woolley
Carter Crosby – 82 rush yards and 1 TD
Mason Elms – 80 rush yards and 1 TD

Neah Bay Grinds a State Semifinal Win over Lummi

Posted on December 1, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Nov. 29	2014	1B	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Neah Bay	0	20	0	6	26
Lummi	6	6	8	0	20

Game Recap below

Neah Bay Grinds a State Semifinal Win over Lummi
By Colin Caruso

In their third matchup this season, in 8-8 football (a ton of fun, I encourage you to catch a game) the Neah Bay Red Devils faced off against the Lummi Blackhawks for a trip to the state finals. Neah Bay won both previous matchups by a 12 point margin in both games, but Lummi was looking to knock off the defending champs.

Lummi started the scoring in the first quarter with an Austin Brockie 1 yard run. But it was Neah Bay’s second quarter that really changed the course of this game. Three scores for the Red Devils, one with Cole Svec’s arm and one with his legs, along with a fumble recovery gave the Red Devils an 8 point lead heading into the second half.

Lummi answered in the third with a needed Hank Hoskins 2 yard run, he was great for the Blackhawks all day and had two scores in the game. But Neah Bay wore the Blackhawks out. Hoskins went down with a cramp and was gassed going into the fourth quarter. Neah Bay capitalized on a Cameron Buzzell 28 yard catch, proving to be the final score of the game.

The Red Devils advanced to the state finals for the fourth season in a row!

The FinalScore – Neah Bay 26, Lummi 20.

Top Performers:
Neah Bay
Cole Svec – 18 carries for 90 yards and 1 TD, 68 yard passing TD

Lummi
Hank Hoskins – 12 carries for 55 yards and 2 TD

Napavine Squeaks Past Toledo

Posted on November 29, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Nov. 28	2014	2B	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Toledo	0	7	7	8	22
Napavine	0	14	0	14	28

Napavine Squeaks Past Toledo
By Colin Caruso

Napavine had yet to be tested prior to this contest. Their margin of victory has been off the charts, and they already placed a 36-6 rout on the visiting Toledo Indians. But that didn’t stop the Indians from fighting until literally the very last play.

With just 3 yards (yes 3 yards) of total offense in the first half, the Toledo Indians fought and clawed their way to a 14-7 deficit at half. Their only score, a 76 yard kickoff return for a TD following a Mac Fagerness TD catch brought them even with the high powered Napavine offense. Napavine was able to sneak in another Fagerness catch with just 7 seconds left in the half, taking the 14-7 lead. The stats were unbelievably misbalanced at this time. Total yards were 225-3 in favor of the Tigers.

The second half saw constant action throughout. The heavy underdog Indians stormed back midway through the third with an amazing 56 yard pass and catch from Dalton Yoder to Grant McEwen. They added another score early in the fourth, taking the lead in a game they where they were heavily outgained in yards. Unfortunately the PAT for Toledo was blocked, but they still held a 20-14 lead early in the fourth.

Napavine answered, as a championship caliber team does, with a march and score. Sam Fagerness this time, Mac’s brother, caught a 29 yard pass from Wyatt Stanley, his third on the day. The PAT was up and good, and the Tigers took a 21-20 lead. After a punt, the Tigers got the ball back, marched again, and scored again on another Stanley pass, his fourth of the day!

This final score put the game out of reach for the Indians, who added a safety on the final play to end the contest 28-22. What a game!

The FinalScore – Napavine 28, Toledo 22.

Top Performers:
Toledo
Dalton Yoder – 4-11 for 85 yards and 2 TD
Grant McEwen – 3 catches for 74 yards and 2 TD

Napavine
Wyatt Stanley – 10-21 for 161 yards and 4 TD
Mac Fagerness – 6 catches for 65 yards and 2 TD