W.F. West Bounds over Kangaroos in Rebel Challenge

Posted on January 3, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec 28th	2013	3A-2A	Girls	Basketball
Juanita High	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
W.F. West	15	7	10	15	47
Lake Washington	4	9	10	15	38

See game recap below

W.F. West Bounds over Kangaroos in Rebel Challenge
By Steven Dion

Day two of the round robin format of the Rebel Classic at Juanita High School featured a 2A showdown between Lake Washington and the Lady Bearcats of W.F. West. The KingCo League Kangs would have their hands full in this matchup as their Evergreen League counterpart has two 6’3” posts in Nike McClure and Tiana Parker. If Lake Washington could tread water in the rebounding department and knock down shots consistently, they would be able to challenge W.F. West in this contest.

The Bearcats owned the first quarter on both sides of the ball. Scoring was dispersed among five players in the first eight minutes. Meanwhile, the Kangs stumbled out of the gate by going field goal-less in the first frame. Four free throws by Sydney Shepard culminated all of LW’s offense as they trailed 15-4 after quarter one. Kang head coach Corey Shepard was able to rally the troops after the slow start by outscoring the opposition in the second quarter. Carly Rataushk was strong on the boards for Lake Washington setting up scoring opportunities for her offense. A quarter filled with changes in possession led to a slim 9-7 scoring total in favor of the Kangs. At the half, W.F. West was ahead 22-13.

Playing catch up in the final sixteen minutes meant LWHS would have to push the tempo and finish at the hoop. Rataushk stayed tough among the tall trees on the Bearcat roster by netting seven points in the third quarter. Unfortunately, secondary scoring options were relatively absent for the Kangs. W.F. West protected their lead throughout the third and entered the final eight with their nine point lead. Lake Washington’s fifteen points in the fourth could have been enough to close the gap, but failure to get defensive stops hindered their ability to challenge the Bearcats. W.F. West also registered fifteen in the quarter to pick up the 47-38 victory.

Top Performer:
Lake Washington
Carly Rataushk – 13 points (3/5 FT’s)

Cleveland Rings in New Year With Win Over Lynnwood

Posted on January 3, 2014 by colincarusoZUMA

Wednesday	Jan 1st	2013	3A-4A	Girls	Basketball
Cleveland High	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Lynnwood	11	16	19	13	59
Cleveland	14	3	11	21	49

See game recap below

Cleveland Rings in New Year With Win Over Lynnwood
By Steven Dion

The first day of 2014 granted high school hoops fans a great New Year’s gift in the form of a matchup between undefeated Lynnwood and defending 3A champions Cleveland. It was evident that this game was the place to be in Seattle on Wednesday night because the Eagles gymnasium was packed. The line to enter extended outside the school and did not shrink until the second quarter. The stage was set for a showdown between two of the top girls basketball programs in the state.

Lynnwood jumped out to an early lead by knocking down shots from the paint. The Royals were able to move the ball well in the half-court offense and set up high percentage scoring opportunities. The host Eagles were able to keep pace and trailed LHS by three after one quarter. The second quarter completely changed the complexion of the game. The Royals shots stopped falling and Cleveland’s pesky defense translated to points on the other end of the floor. Alexia Mefi’s blocks brought the capacity crowd to its feet. The Eagles outscored the Royals 16-3 in the second quarter and led 27-17 at the break.

CHS picked up where they left off in the third quarter as senior Makayla Roper drained four field goals in the frame. The deficit increased as the fourth quarter commenced with a 46 to 28 lead in favor of Stephenie Wheeler-Smith’s squad. The contest garnered some interest in the fourth as Lynnwood was able to extend the ball game and get to the free throw line. The Royals were able to cut the Eagles lead to eight points late, but Cleveland held on to pick up a 59-49 victory.

Top Performer:
Cleveland
Makayla Roper – 17 points (2/3 FT’s, 3 3 pt FG’s)

Lynden Lions Follow Lynden Christian Win With a Victory of Their Own

Posted on December 28, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec 21st	2013	2A	Boys	Basketball
ShoWare Center	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Lynden	10	4	17	12	43
Sumner	5	13	7	15	40

See game recap below

Lynden Lions Follow Lynden Christian Win With a Victory of Their Own
By Steven Dion

The northerly town of Lynden had two teams represented at the ShoWare Shootout on Saturday in Kent. After Lynden Christian defeated Cedar Park Christian, it was the Lions’ turn to keep the Lynden train rolling. Their recent playoff run in football leading to another state championship has certainly affected the quick transition to basketball, a team composed of many football players. Brett McDaniel and his Sumner team were eager to spoil the two hour trip north for their opponent Saturday afternoon.

Consistency was an issue for both squads in this game as momentum swings were abundant. Sumner was only able to put up five points in the first eight minutes. Fortunately for the Spartans, Lynden was only able to notch ten of their own. The tides turned in the next eight as Sumner’s full court press forced turnovers in the Lynden side of the floor. The absence of an undersized, ball-handling specialist on the big Lions roster was a weakness Sumner picked apart. A four-point second quarter by Lynden led to a lead change and a 18-14 Spartan lead at the break.

The third quarter proved to be a pivotal turning point in the game as Sumner was unable to protect their lead, conceding seventeen points to their opposition while only scoring seven. Sumner was going to need to stage a comeback in the final quarter to pull out a victory. The Spartans high energy offense provided ample opportunities to knock down shots. However, shots were challenged by the likes of Scooter Hastings and Jaremy Martin. Even though Sumner won the fourth quarter, they were unable to win the ballgame as 5 and 7 point first and third quarters dug a hole for the Spartans they could not dig themselves out of. At the final buzzer, Lynden won 43-40.

Top Performers:
Lynden
Sterling Somers – 16 points (6/15 FG’s, 4/8 3pt), 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals

Lady Monarchs Sting Hornets in ShoWare Shootout

Posted on December 28, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec 21st	2013	2A	Girls	Basketball
ShoWare Center	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Mark Morris	21	19	21	14	75
White River	14	8	19	12	53

See game recap below

Lady Monarchs Sting Hornets in ShoWare Shootout
By Steven Dion

Steve Rooklidge and his Mark Morris squad had plans to make their two hour trek north to Kent from Longview worthwhile at the ShoWare Shootout against White River from the SPSL. The Monarchs wasted no time finding their groove as their pesky defense caused numerous turnovers leading to transition buckets. The ball movement by Mark Morris was phenomenal throughout the entire contest; making the extra pass, finding the open shooter. After one frame, Mark Morris built a seven point lead. White River certainly knew their size disadvantage going into this game would create matchup problems throughout and they would have to find other ways to battle the Monarchs. Unfortunately, Mark Morris’ sizzling shooting continued through the rest of the first half. Going into the break, the Hornets trailed by eighteen points.

MMHS picked up where they left off in the second half as their jump-shots continued to fall and the stops on the defensive end led to high percentage shot in the frontcourt. Coach Rooklidge said he was pleased and even surprised how well his team was able to execute on both sides of the floor. Their ability to handle a talented White River team the way they did is a testament to an experienced Greater St. Helens League frontrunner. Both teams were able to finish with four players in double-digit scoring. However, the Eaton duo of Mark Morris both registered double-doubles as Kourtney knocked down 16 points and 11 assists while Karley scored 21 and grabbed 11 rebounds. Final score 75-53 in favor of the Monarchs.

Top Performers:
Mark Morris
Karley Eaton – 21 points (9/17 FG’s 2/2 FT’s), 11 rebounds, 5 assists

Wilson Dominates First Half but Squeaks by Bellarmine

Posted on December 27, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec 21st	2013	3A-4A	Boys	Basketball
ShoWare Center	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Bellarmine Prep	4	10	19	6	39
Wilson	10	23	5	13	51

See game recap below

Wilson Dominates First Half but Squeaks by Bellarmine
By Colin Caruso

In the second to last game at the Muscle Milk pre-season tournament in Kent, the Bellarmine Prep Lions took on the Wilson Rams in another non-conference matchup. Bellarmine jumped out to an early 4-0 lead, converting on two easy layups, but were unable to score for the remainder of the first quarter. Wilson closed the quarter on a 10-0 run that continued into the second.

That run extended to a 20-0 run with five minutes left in the second, on the back of a solid diamond press that Bellarmine could not break, leading to easy Wilson transition layups. Seven Rams were able to score in the first half, compared to just four Lions. The Rams took a commanding 33-14 lead into the half.

Bellarmine received a good talking to from Coach Salazar at the break and turned their offense on to start the third quarter. An 18-1 run for the Lions cut the Wilson lead just two with one minute remaining in the frame. Bellarmine won the quarter 19-5 and only trailed by five entering the fourth.

The Lions’ leading scorer Mar’kese Jackson fouled out with 4:30 remaining in the fourth, really stifling the colossal comeback effort for Bellarmine. The five point margin would be the closest the Lions would come, as Wilson began to battle on the interior and taking advantage of their bonus free-throws. Wilson closed with a strong third quarter and finished with a 51-39 win.

Top Performers:
Bellarmine Prep
Mar’kese Jackson – 16 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals
Drew Griffin – 9 points, 9 rebounds

Wilson
Alphonso Anderson – 11 points, 14 rebounds

Bainbridge Girls Pick Up Road Win Against Quakers

Posted on December 23, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Dec 20th	2013	3A	Girls	Basketball
Franklin High	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Bainbridge	18	7	14	14	53
Franklin	5	7	5	14	31

See game recap below

Bainbridge Girls Pick Up Road Win Against Quakers
By Steven Dion

The phrase “Games Are Won In the Fourth Quarter” apply to many basketball games, but when a team jumps out of the gate firing on all cylinders, the result can be decided much sooner. The Bainbridge Lady Spartans’ balanced attack and opportunistic defense gave Franklin everything it could handle Friday night in downtown Seattle. Bainbridge’s 18-5 lead after one quarter of play was facilitated by a pair of triples by freshman sharpshooter Taylor Tye and second-chance scoring opportunities by Katie Usellis’ relentless rebounding. Holding Franklin to twelve points in the first half is a testament to Spartan head coach Nicole Hebner’s ability to utilize her deep bench and maintain fresh legs on the floor.

The second half featured more of what was seen in the first sixteen minutes of play as the Quakers were unable to get into a shooting groove and also allowed transition buckets by the opponent. However, Franklin showed resilience by putting together a respectable fourth quarter by matching Bainbridge with 14 points. FHS sophomore Tamia Spellman buried a three and knocked down a pair of free throws in the frame. When the horn sounded, Bainbridge Island sailed off with a 53-31 victory. Three BIHS players finished with a dozen points: Paige Brigham, Katie Usellis, and Taylor Tye.

Top Performers:
Bainbridge
Paige Brigham – 12 points (4/9 FG’s 3/5 FT’s)

Franklin Survives Late Bainbridge Surge

Posted on December 22, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Dec 20th	2013	3A	Boys	Basketball
Franklin High	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Bainbridge	9	19	10	24	63
Franklin	19	6	17	24	66

See game recap below

Franklin Survives Late Bainbridge Surge
By Steven Dion

Heading into Holiday break, teams are anxious to finish off on a high note before the short time off. The Franklin Quakers and Spartans from Bainbridge Island proved this to be true on their back-and-forth showdown Friday night in Seattle. Both teams had trouble scoring early, but Franklin was able to finish the first quarter strong with a Emanuel Siale providing the hot hand. The Spartans were prepared to give the Quakers a taste of their own medicine by matching their nineteen points in the second quarter through intense perimeter defense. BIHS distributed the ball well by registering five scorers in the frame. At half, Bainbridge led 28-25.

Quaker sophomore Keith Smith was determined to regain the lead in the third quarter by scoring 15 of his team’s 17 points. He made six of eight field goal attempts in the frame and put Franklin back in the driver’s seat. But Bainbridge was not ready to hop on the ferry quite yet. One of the Spartans eight juniors Blake Swanson began burying open looks down the stretch to keep the contest tight. The guard notched 11 in the quarter. However, Smith was able to knock down free throws after intentional fouls and in doing so, sealed the victory for the home team. The final score was Franklin 66 Bainbridge 63.

Top Performers:
Franklin
Keith Smith 32 points (8/15 FG’s, 15/19 FT’s)

In a Battle of Two Undefeated Teams, Bishop Blanchet Prevails

Posted on December 21, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Wednesday	Dec 18th	2013	3A	Girls	Basketball
Bishop Blanchet High	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Holy Names Academy	10	0	9	8	27
Bishop Blanchet	11	6	6	11	34

See game recap below

In a Battle of Two Undefeated Teams, Bishop Blanchet Prevails
By Steven Dion

In a potential preview of a late-February contest, Bishop Blanchet squared off against another undefeated Metro League squad in Holy Names on Tuesday Night. From the opening tip, there was a tangible energy in the game that led to an exciting finish that was not sealed until late in the fourth quarter. At the end of the thirty-two minutes, only one unbeaten team would remain.

Both teams were willing to run a fast-paced first quarter where most of the points came in transition and there were several turnovers forced by each squad. Blanchet freshman Jaydn Bush was playing like a senior as she collected rebound after rebound. Her ability to give her team second-chances was an integral part in BBHS’s success. After holding Holy Names scoreless in the second quarter, the Braves led 17-10 at halftime.

It was apparent that Holy Names head coach Rhonda Smith made adjustments in the locker room as the Cougars went on a third quarter run that brought her team back within reach. Camariah King accounted for 13 total points, including four three-pointers. The Cougs were unable to convert on a few critical possessions down the stretch and an old fashioned three point play by Bush late sealed the victory for Bishop Blanchet. The final score was 34-27 in favor of the home team.

Top Performers:
Bishop Blanchet
Jadyn Bush – 11 points

With a Fourth Quarter Surge, Franklin Boys Top Mountlake Terrace

Posted on December 16, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec 14th	2013	3A	Boys	Basketball
Highline CC	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Franklin	10	16	11	21	58
Mountlake Terrace	12	11	18	12	53

See game recap below

With a Fourth Quarter Surge, Franklin Boys Top Mountlake Terrace
By Colin Caruso

Talk about a very evenly matched game with playoff implications, both of these teams will have a legitimate shot at playing late into February. With Highline Community College as the destination, the Franklin Quakers took on the Mountlake Terrace Hawks for out of conference bragging rights. Both teams returned strong players from last season, making this a great matchup.

The game was close throughout, with neither team taking more than a seven point lead. The matchup held 7 ties and 12 lead changes, with back and forth action from tip off to the final whistle. After a strong third quarter from the Hawks, Mountlake Terrace took a four point lead into the fourth quarter.

On the back of Eugene Artison Jr. and Keith Smith Jr., the Quakers started the fourth quarter with a bang and took a two point lead with just under two minutes to play. A couple of plays later, senior star Greg Bowman for the Hawks ran coast to coast for a game tying layup and he was fouled for an and one. Unfortunately, he missed the free-throw and the game was tied at 52. After the Quakers failed to convert on their next possession, they fouled Yonnas Tewolde of the Hawks who hit one of two from the line for a 1 point Hawk lead. The remaining 36 seconds in the game all belonged to Franklin.

A layup by Quaker Jamari Lewis and four free-throws for Smith Jr. after two costly Hawk turnovers gave the final six points to Franklin. This proved to be the difference in the game, as Franklin won 58-53.

Top Performers:
Franklin
Keith Smith Jr. – 29 points, 9 rebounds, 2 steals
Eugene Artison Jr. – 14 points, 9 rebounds

Mountlake Terrace
Greg Bowman – 25 points, 7 rebounds, 3 steals

Lynnwood Girls Take Down Mount Rainier in Double OT Thriller

Posted on December 16, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec 14th	2013	4A	Girls	Basketball
Highline CC	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	OT1	OT2	Final
Lynnwood	13	12	11	9	5	7	57
Mt. Rainier	7	14	10	14	5	4	54

See game recap below

Lynnwood Girls Take Down Mount Rainier in Double OT Thriller
By Colin Caruso

In a battle between some of the best girls basketball teams in the state of Washington, the Lynnwood Royals took on the Mount Rainier Rams in the 2013 Muscle Milk Preview tournament at Highline Community College. Lynnwood took charge in the first half, doing well containing the dangerous McPhee twins by holding them to just nine first half points. The Royals also dominated the glass, grabbing ten more rebounds than the Rams leading towards ten more first half shot attempts. Lynnwood took a four point lead into the half, but they controlled the pace of play and led by as many as nine.

Mount Rainier began to heat up in the second half on the back of Emily Fiso, who finished with 15 points on the day. She hit a layup with just over a minute to play to cut the Royal lead to two points, 42-40. After the Royals failed to convert on their next possession, Jordan McPhee knocked down a three pointer for the Rams with just 22 seconds left on the clock, giving them their first lead since the first quarter. But Monty Cooper responded for the Royals with just 12 seconds left with a three of her own, giving the Royals a two point lead. You know Brittney McPhee was going to get into the action at some point, and the future Stanford Cardinal made a game tying layup on Mount Rainier’s next possession to send the game to OT.

Lynnwood controlled the first overtime as well, going ahead by as many as five points in the short frame. But Fiso struck again for the Rams, knocking down a three with 13 seconds in the frame to tie the game at 50 and send this great game to another overtime.

Lynnwood again took control of the second overtime, as both McPhee twins fouled out early in the final frame. This proved to be the difference in the game, without Jordan and Brittney the Rams were in trouble. Lynnwood closed out the game at the free-throw line, and a last second attempt from Rams guard Aqeelah Williams fell just short to give Lynnwood a 57-54 win.

Top Performers:
Lynnwood
Mikayla Pivec – 12 points, 16 rebounds, 3 blocks, 3 steals
Jasmin Edwards – 19 points, 6 rebounds, 2 steals
Monty Cooper – 14 points, 9 rebounds, 5 steals

Mount Rainier
Brittany McPhee – 18 points, 20 rebounds, 3 steals
Jordan McPhee – 10 points, 11 rebounds
Emily Fiso – 15 points, 6 rebounds

Down 13……1 Minute to Play,
Chiawana Comes Back to Win the
State Title?

Posted on December 8, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

: Camas prior to Kickoff of State Title Game.
(theFinalScore.TV / ZUMA Media)

: Blake Bishop of Chiawana pulls down the ball carrier.
(theFinalScore.TV / ZUMA Media)

: Chiawana Fans during the game.
(theFinalScore.TV / ZUMA Media)

Saturday	Dec 7th	2013	4A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Chiawana	7	6	0	14	27
Camas	0	6	20	0	26

See game recap below

Down 13, 1 Minute to Play, Chiawana Comes Back to Win the State Title?
By Colin Caruso

I will spare you the details that can be spared. Chiawana played Camas in the Tacoma Dome for the 4A Washington state final on Saturday night, and neither team had ever played for a football state title prior to this game. The favorite, the Camas Papermakers, came into the contest winning every game by a minimum of 19 points and scoring an average of 56.6 points per game. The underdog, the Chiawana Riverhawks, held a perfect season with one blemish, a loss in Coeur d’Alene to Lake City High School.

Chiawana held the powerful Papermaker offense in check for the first half, with Camas’ only score coming on a 55 yard fumble recovery where the football looked like a pinball bouncing off bumpers. Unfortunately for the Riverhawks, the bumpers were Chiawana players. Chiawana had three players with legitimate opportunities to pick up this football yet they all somehow missed, and Michael Johnson for the Papermakers bolted the other direction with the football Camas’ only first half score.

The offense for the Riverhawks in the first half was pretty consistent. They scored two touchdowns; the first a Clifton Lozano run and the second a Clifton Lozano catch. Due to the kicking woes of both teams, Chiawana led 13-6 at the break.

Camas dominated the first 23 minutes of the second half, which equates to all but one minute of the remainder of the game. The Papermakers scored three touchdowns in this timeframe, two of which were passes from Reilly Hennessey, and the other a Nate Beasley rushing touchdown. Beasley also caught one of Hennessey’s two passing scores. Camas led 26-13, with their final offensive possession of the season resulting in a turnover on downs to Chiawana with just over a minute to play.

This is when Chiawana decided to win the football game, down 13 points, not having scored in the second half, with 1:05 on the fourth quarter clock and no timeouts.

On the next play, Chiawana quarterback Joey Zamora dropped back to pass and threw a 57 yard touchdown strike to Dre Dorton. After the successful PAT, the Riverhawks trailed 26-20 with 55 seconds on the clock. (There were four (4) PATs missed in this game, FOUR) I shrug my shoulders and ask who is this going to haunt?

Chiawana attempts an onside kick, the ball pops probably 15 feet in the air, 10 young men all leap for the ball, the Riverhawks recover on the Camas 43. This brought an urgent silence to the Camas sideline.

Joey Zamora’s next pass finds Camas’ only player, Dylan White, without two usable hands because one was so heavily casted, and amazingly pinballs (just like before, but this time in the air) into Chiawana’s WR, Blake Bishop’s hands for a completed pass and a first down. Zamora’s next pass is a heave into the end zone, but he benefits from a pass interference call, moving the ball closer to the goal line. Chiawana’s next play results in a Zamora rush up the middle for a first down on the Camas four yard line, followed by a spike to stop the clock at 5 seconds.

Everyone in the Tacoma Dome is thinking, “What in the world…..is going on here?!?!?!”

I watch as Zamora rolls right on the final play. Receiver Blake Bishop runs a slant, it’s covered, but he turns back outside to run parallel with his quarterback towards the Camas sideline. He’s open. Oh my goodness he’s actually open.

Zamora throws another strike, Bishop catches, looks down at both of his feet which are in bounds by a yard, and celebrates with the clock at 0:00. They are tied at 26 and need the PAT to win. The PAT which in this game is as rare as papa’s steak on the dinner table (and that’s rare).

Matt Winn steps up to take the kick. What is going through his mind? Winn kicks the ball, it whistles through the uprights. Are you kidding me?

Chiawana scores two touchdowns in less than 1 minute to win by 1 point in the 4A Washington state final, 27-26. My hat goes off to the Camas team, coaches, fans, the whole town; this is the most difficult athletic loss they will ever endure.

No one could believe what happened; I’ve never seen so many people cry in agony on one side and in ecstasy on the other. This game reminds us why we play sports.

The 2014 football season is officially a wrap…….

Top Performers:
Chiawana
Joey Zamora – 17/32 for 301 yards, 3TD
Clifton Lozano – 28 carries for 162 yards, 1TD, 3 catches for 44 yards, 1TD

Camas
Reilly Hennessey – 10/22 for 184 yards, 2TD
Nate Beasley – 24 carries for 162 yards, 1TD, 1 catch for 74 yards, 1TD

The Scotties take the 1A State Crown to Freeman

Posted on December 8, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Dec 7th	2013	1A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Mount Baker	6	7	0	0	13
Freeman	7	12	6	6	31

See game recap below

The Scotties take the 1A State Crown to Freeman
By Colin Caruso

The Washington state 1A football state final saw two teams both vying for their first ever state championship. The Freeman Scotties had made one trip to the championship game back in 2004, and this was the Mount Baker Mountaineers first ever trip to the finals.

Freeman started the game about as well as you can, with Marcus Goldbach returning the opening kickoff 85 yards for a score. Mount Baker responded with an eight minute touchdown drive of their own, capped by a 1 yard run from Liam Short. Their PAT was missed, and Freeman took a 7-6 lead into the second quarter.

Both teams put together scoring drives early in the second quarter, with Mount Baker blocking the point after from Freeman’s second score to keep the game tied at 13.

The Scotties were at it again after Mount Baker’s score. A five play 84 yard drive finished by a 2 yard run from Max Laib, his second on the day, gave Freeman a 19-13 lead that they rode into halftime after another missed PAT.

Mount Baker received the second half kickoff and was forced to punt the ball back to the Scotties. Freeman made great use of their possession again, compiling a 10 play 91 yard drive ending in another Marcus Goldbach touchdown, taking the lead 25-13. Mount Baker drove into the red zone on their next possession, but Freeman held strong on a fourth down and took the ball back on downs.

Goldbach struck again early in the fourth, this time from four yards out, gathering his third touchdown of the day. His score put the game effectively out of reach, with the Scotties ahead 31-13. Neither team was able to break free from the other’s defense, and the Scotties captured their first state title with a 31-13 win over Mount Baker!

Top Performers:
Mount Baker
Liam Short – 17 carries for 104 yards and 1TD
Izaiha Schwinde – 18 carries for 80 yards and 1TD

Freeman
Marcus Goldbach – 23 carries for 170 yards and 2TD, 85 yard kickoff return for TD
Max Laib – 20 carries for 72 yards and 2TD

The Wolverines Conquer 3A Again,
6th Straight Title

Posted on December 7, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Dec 6th	2013	3A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Bellevue	7	28	10	7	52
Eastside Catholic	0	7	0	13	20

See game recap below

varsity-football-live-webarticle2

The Wolverines Conquer 3A Again, 6th Straight
By Colin Caruso

3A Washington state football has been dominated by the Bellevue Wolverines for the past 12 years. Ten state titles in that timeframe and a win in Friday’s matchup against the Eastside Catholic Crusaders would make six in a row.

Eastside came out throwing on their first possession, putting together a good drive after a 57 yard completion to Colin Macilvennie. Quarterback Harley Kirsch dropped back to pass on the next play, tossed the ball into the end zone for running back Brandon Wellington but the pass was a tad underthrown. Safety (also quarterback) Timmy Haehl was able to make a leaping interception, giving Bellevue their first possession. Five plays later Haehl connected with Ross Connors for a 65 yard touchdown to give Bellevue the early 7-0 lead.

After two punts from Eastside and one from Bellevue, the Wolverines got the ball back on their own 27 yard line. Two plays later Haehl busted free for a 70 yard touchdown run to give the Wolverines a 14-0 lead.

The Crusaders needed an answering drive and they put together a well-executed eight play 57-yard drive that was capped off by a 1 yard quarterback keeper by Harley Kirsch to close the Wolverine lead to 14-7. But Bellevue stormed right back and converted on a 9 yard Sam Richmond run to elevate the lead back to 14, 21-7.

After two Crusader offensive plays, senior Wolverine Shane Bowman forced a fumble that was recovered by Bellevue on the Crusader 14 yard line. Two plays later Richmond struck again, his second on the evening, to put the Wolverines up 28-7. After a three and out by the Crusaders, Bellevue struck again on a Haehl run, his second of the day. Bellevue took a 35-7 lead into halftime.

Bellevue received the second half kick but was forced to punt to the Crusaders. Deep inside their own territory on their second offensive play, Kirsch dropped back and threw a deep ball over the middle that was intercepted again by Haehl of the Wolverines, who returned in 32 yards for another Bellevue score. After another Crusader turnover, Bellevue added a Kian Khodamoradi field goal to push the lead to 45-7.

To make the game a little more respectable, the Crusaders put together a great drive in the beginning of the fourth quarter that was capped off by a 1 yard Elisha Pa’Aga run. Both teams added a score to close out the fourth quarter and Bellevue pulled off another win in convincing fashion, 52-20. Congratulations to the Bellevue program for winning 6 straight state titles, and 11 of the last 13.

Top Performers:
Bellevue
Timmy Haehl – 7/7 for 91 yards 1TD, 8 carries for 116 yards 2TD, 2 defensive interceptions, one return for TD
Budda Baker – 18 carries for 101 yards and 1TD

Eastside Catholic
Harley Kirsch – 27/37 for 266 yards and 1TD

Neah Bay all the Way!
1B State Champs Again

Posted on December 7, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Dec 6th	2013	1A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Neah Bay	6	8	6	16	36
Touchet	12	0	0	6	18

See game recap below

varsity-football-live-webarticle2

Neah Bay all the Way! 1B State Champs Again
By Colin Caruso

Eleven years have passed since the Touchet Indians have made an appearance in the 1B state finals; a place that their opponent, the Neah Bay Red Devils, have found themselves three years in a row. Both teams and fans traveled a combined 425 miles to Tacoma to witness a great matchup in eight on eight ball. Touchet did not seem fazed by the Tacoma Dome’s championship atmosphere despite it being so long since their last trip here, as they had no problem marching for scores on their first two drives, both from Elias Martinez touchdown passes.

Down two scores early, the Red Devils rallied for a score after a great kick return from Josiah Greene. He added the 15 yard touchdown run two plays later. Neah Bay forced a three an out on Touchet’s next possession and were knocking on the end zone door at the end of the first quarter.

The Red Devils tied the contest on the first play of the second quarter, a 2 yard run from Cody Cummins. They added the 2 point conversion on a reception from senior wide receiver Zeke Greene to take a 14-12 lead. Neah Bay kept the momentum with a critical fourth and one stop on their own two yard line, forcing a turnover on downs and holding Touchet to back to back scoreless drives. Neither team was able to score again in the quarter and Neah Bay took their 14-12 lead into the half.

Neah Bay received the second half kickoff and marched down the field on a 12 play drive, capped off by another Cody Cummins touchdown run, his second of the day. The Red Devils kept their momentum soaring as they forced a turnover on downs on Touchet’s next possession and punched in another rushing TD to take a commanding 28-12 lead with 10:41 remaining in the contest.

Touchet needed a big play to get them back in this game, and it came with a 50 yard run from quarterback Elias Martinez all the way down to the Red Devil four yard line. But the Devil defense stood strong and forced another turnover on downs. Neah Bay then put together an eleven play 90 yard drive to score its 36th unanswered point against the Indians. Touchet would punch in a score on the last play of the game, but congratulations to the Neah Bay Red Devils for their second state title in three years!

Top Performers:
Neah Bay
Cody Cummins – 24 carries for 183 yards 2TD
Josiah Greene – 19 carries for 149 yards 1TD

Touchet
Elias Martinez – 9/14 for 195 yards 3TD, 7 carries for 76 yards

Basketball Has Begun! Seattle Prep Dominates Bishop Blanchet

Posted on December 4, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Tuesday	Dec 3rd	2013	3A	Boys	Basketball
Bishop Blanchet High	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Seattle Prep	13	17	25	17	72
Bishop Blanchet	15	6	5	10	36

See game recap below

Basketball Has Begun! Seattle Prep Dominates Bishop Blanchet
By Colin Caruso

A great way to tip off the basketball season is a rivalry game. That is what showcased on Tuesday night, as the Seattle Prep Panthers made the three mile trip to Bishop Blanchet to battle the Braves. These teams have shared some amazing games in the past, but this one did not live up to any hype.

Blanchet held the lead after the first quarter on the back of Matt Welch, who scored 13 of his teams 15 first quarter points. Amazingly enough, he actually totaled 28 of his teams first 30 points in the contest. Unfortunately, Blanchet didn’t break the thirty point barrier until midway through the fourth quarter.

On the back of 16 points from 6’6″ junior Jordan Kitchen and 14 points from 6’7″ sophomore Sean Gummersall, the Panthers dominated the final three quarters, outscoring their rivals 59-21 to close out the game. Aside from Welch’s 28 points, no one on Blanchet scored more than two, and the Panthers completely controlled the paint and the three point arc throughout.

In speaking with Coach Mike Kelly at the end of the contest, he is excited about the competition this year in the always dominate Metro league. Metro 3A has taken the state crown in 10 of the last 12 seasons.

Top Performers:
Seattle Prep
Jordan Kitchen – 16 points, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks, 2 steals
Jack Stewart – 13 points, 5 steals, 3 rebounds
Sean Gummersall – 14 points, 5 rebounds

Bishop Blanchet
Matt Welch – 28 points, 6 rebounds

Too Much Hennessey for Bellarmine, Camas Advances to 4A State Final

Posted on December 1, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

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Saturday	Nov 30th	2013	4A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Bellarmine Prep	7	7	0	7	21
Camas	21	14	7	7	49

See game recap below

Too Much Hennessey for Bellarmine, Camas Advances to 4A State Final
By Colin Caruso

In the primetime game at the Tacoma Dome on semifinal Saturday, the Bellarmine Prep Lions faced off against the Papermakers of Camas for a trip to the 4A state final. Bellarmine came into the contest with two losses this season, Camas entered undefeated.

The Papermakers came out strong in this contest, scoring two touchdowns in the first five minutes of the game, both on passes from Reilly Hennessey to Zach Eagle. Bellarmine was able to respond with a Garrett McKay touchdown catch later in the quarter, but the Papermakers kept the pressure on with another scoring drive to close the quarter with a 21-7 lead.

Of the Papermakers six first half possessions, five resulted in touchdowns. Bellarmine could not find a way to slow down the Papermakers, who amassed 406 first half yards. Camas led 35-14 at the break.

Scoring slowed down in the third quarter, with only a Jason Vailea touchdown run for the Papermakers, his second on the night. Bellarmine did put together a great drive in the quarter but a fourth down touchdown pass by Lou Millie was negated by an illegal forward pass which gave the ball back to Camas.

With the game in hand, both teams added another score in the fourth quarter. Camas closed Bellarmine Prep’s season with a commanding 49-21 win. The Papermakers will play Chiawana on December 7th for the 4A state championship.

Top Performers:
Bellarmine Prep
Lou Millie – 13/25 for 183 yards and 2TD
Garret McKay – 5 catches for 89 yards and 2TD

Camas
Reilly Hennessey – 21/32 for 343 yards and 3TD
Zach Eagle – 11 catches for 170 yards and 3TD
Nate Beasley – 27 carries for 128 yards and 1TD

Eastside Catholic Advances to 3A State Final for Second Year in a Row

Posted on November 30, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

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Friday	Nov 29th	2013	3A	Boys	Football
Tacoma Dome	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Eastside Catholic	7	14	7	0	28
O'Dea	0	7	0	7	14

See game recap below

Eastside Catholic Advances to 3A State Final for Second Year in a Row
By Colin Caruso

In their second matchup of the season, the Eastside Catholic Crusaders were looking to avenge their only conference loss of the season in this state semifinal matchup against the powerhouse O’Dea Fighting Irish. After a spectacular interception by Eastside linebacker/running back Brandon Wellington, the Crusaders struck first with a 3 yard pass from Harley Kirsch to Matt Laris to take a 7-0 lead. O’Dea answered with a 61 yard run from star running back Myles Gaskin to tie the contest at seven.

After an injury to workhorse running back Brandon Wellington early in the second quarter, Eastside turned to their aerial attack and connected on a 64 yard pass from Kirsch to Colin Macilvennie to take a 14-7 lead. O’Dea put together a great drive after the Eastside score, but quarterback Pierre LeDorze was intercepted in the end zone by Wellington, his second on the day, who came back from injury to help the Crusader defense. That interception led to an 80 yard drive from the Crusaders, capped off by another Kirsch touchdown pass to Colin Boit with just 21 seconds left in the half. Eastside Catholic took a commanding 21-7 lead into halftime.

O’Dea received in the second half but was forced to punt after a good defensive stand from Eastside Catholic. The Crusaders then put together another long drive, this time 90 yards, capped off by a 22 yard run from Wellington to place a commanding 28-7 lead on the Irish. After the teams exchanged punts, O’Dea started to drive down the field but was halted after a fumble on the exchange between LeDorze and his fullback Jack Flor. Eastside recovered but was forced to punt back to the Irish just before the end of the third quarter.

O’Dea capitalized quickly in the fourth with a much needed score, a beautiful LeDorze pass for 41 yards to Bobiono Sims to make it a two score game, 28-14. But the Irish couldn’t put together another solid drive; the Crusader defense was stifling, filling gaps and relentlessly pursuing the football. Eastside Catholic closed the game with a 28-14 victory and will play next weekend in the Tacoma Dome for the 3A state championship.

Top Performers:
Eastside Catholic
Harley Kirsch – 19/31 for 294 yards and 3TD
Brandon Wellington – 14 carries for 66 yards, 1TD, 2 defensive interceptions

O’Dea
Myles Gaskin – 20 for 134 yards TD

Eagle Soars As Camas Shreds Wolves

Posted on November 25, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Nov 23rd	2013	4A	Boys	Football
Eastlake High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Camas	14	13	13	7	47
Eastlake	7	7	14	0	28

See game recap below

Eagle Soars As Camas Shreds Wolves
By Steven Dion

A chilly November afternoon in the Sammamish plateau served as the site for a 4A quarterfinal matchup between the number one ranked Papermakers against host Eastlake. The winner was set to host a semifinal matchup with Bellarmine Prep next week who topped Bothell. The visitor sideline was too small for the large Camas crowd as many Papermaker fans watched from the fence. If Eastlake was going to pull an upset, they would have to get off to a strong start and set the tone.

The Wolves caught Camas flat-footed early as the first play from scrimmage was a 70-yard touchdown run by UW commit Drew Lewis. Camas didn’t reach 10-0 and score at least 44 points every game this season for no reason as they responded quickly with a Zach Eagle run for six. Before the first half concluded, Eagle added a receiving score and fumble recovery for touchdown as part of his four on the contest. Lewis was a workhorse for Eastlake by scoring 3 rushing TDs on countless carries, using his 6’3” 205 frame to pick apart the stout front seven of CHS. At the break, Camas led 27-14.

EHS was going to have to open up the playbook to find a way to dig themselves out of a hole in the second half to propose a chance to make a comeback. They successfully recovered an onside kick to start the half but were unable to capitalize. Joe Longcore came up with a Thomas Richard strike in the end zone in addition to Lewis’ third score to pull the Wolves within one score. The Camas defensive line stopped Eastlake on multiple fourth downs late and were able to turn the stops into points. The Papermakers ability to close strong was rewarded with a 47-28 victory. They will make a trip north to Tacoma to face the Lions next week.

Top Performer:
Camas
Zach Eagle- 4TDs – 1 rushing 10 yards, 1 fumble recovery 7 yards, 2 receiving 78 and 38 yards

Bellarmine Advances to State Semifinal in OT Thriller

Posted on November 24, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Nov 23rd	2013	4A	Boys	Football
Mt. Tahoma Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Bothell	0	7	7	3	17
Bellarmine Prep	7	3	0	7+3	20

See game recap below

Bellarmine Advances to State Semifinal in OT Thriller
By Colin Caruso

With the stands packed at the newly constructed Mt. Tahoma Stadium, the Bellarmine Prep Lions hosted the 4A state quarterfinal matchup against the Bothell Cougars. Defense was the story throughout, as both teams struggled to put together strong drives that resulted in scoring.

Bellarmine broke the 0-0 tie late in the first quarter with an 11 yard touchdown run from junior Jamal Ervin. The Lions added a 33 yard field goal later in the second as well, taking a 10-0 lead. But Bothell put together a strong drive in the waning seconds of the first half to punch their first score in, an 11 yard pass from junior Ross Bowers to classmate Dayzell Wilson to close the gap to 10-7 at half.

The Cougars put the only score on the board in the third quarter, a 2 yard run from junior tailback Sam McPherson. But again both teams played stellar defense, as both secondaries intercepted the opposing quarterback in the quarter.

Bothell added a field goal early in the fourth to take their largest lead of the game, seven points. But Bellarmine drove down the field and answered immediately, a pass from Lou Millie to Nick Selden tied the game at 17. Bothell put together a great drive on their next possession, with a first and goal at the six yard line. Just two plays later, Bowers lofted a ball towards the sideline and was intercepted again, returned close to midfield. With 3:11 on the clock, Bellarmine was poised to put together a game winning drive. But penalties and a sack forced the Lions out of field goal range and the game went to overtime, 17-17.

Bellarmine kicked another field goal on their first possession to put the pressure on the Cougars, who were again with a first and goal situation. But Lion Garrett McKay wanted nothing to do with a Cougar touchdown, and intercepted Bowers again, to win the game 20-17. The Lions will play Camas in the state 4A semifinal.

Top Performers:
Bellarmine Prep
Team defense – 4 interceptions, sack, forced fumble
Matthew Philichi – 2 field goals of 37 and 33 yards

A Tale of Two Halves; Federal Way Tops Richland

Posted on November 23, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Nov 22th	2013	4A	Boys	Football
Federal Way Memorial Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Richland	14	14	0	6	34
Federal Way	7	14	14	6	41

See game recap below

A Tale of Two Halves; Federal Way Tops Richland
By Colin Caruso

In a contest that filled both sets of stands and Memorial Stadium, the Federal Way Eagles hosted the Richland Bombers for a spot in the 4A state semifinals. Richland, making the almost 250 mile trip to Federal Way, started the scoring onslaught early. The Bombers put up 14 points in the first quarter on a touchdown run from Nathan Perry and a touchdown pass from Zach Whitby to Hayden Whitby. The Eagles, with a smaller and faster team, started slower and did not break their scoring drought until late in the first with a Keenan Curran QB keeper, his first of two touchdowns on the day.

The scoring continued in the second quarter, with Nathan Perry punching in two more scores for the Bombers and Curran and star running back Chico McClatcher both rushing in scores for the Eagles. The Bombers held a 28-21 lead going into the half and looked poised to make a good push in the second.

The confidence and speed that the Bombers held going into the locker room dwindled during the 15 minute halftime. Federal Way came out executing on all cylinders in the second half, with a half-back passing touchdown and a rushing touchdown from McClatcher in the third quarter alone. Federal Way’s defense began to heat up as well, forcing five turnovers and a punt in Richland’s first six possessions in the second half.

The Bombers were on the ropes early in the fourth, down two scores to a high octane Federal Way offense and a second half smothering defense. McClatcher added two interceptions in the fourth quarter to seal the win for the Eagles, 41-34. Federal Way will play the winner of Chiawana vs. Wenatchee for a trip to the state final. This is the first appearance for the Eagles in the state semifinal since 1976.

Top Performers:
Richland
Nathan Perry – 3 total TD, rushing of 18 and 4 yards, 13 yard catch

Federal Way
Keenan Curran – 20 carries for 211 yards, 2 rushing TD, defensive INT
Chico McClatcher – 20 carries for 104 yards, 3 rushing TD, passing TD, 2 defensive INT

Two Years in a Row, Crusaders end Tomahawks Season

Posted on November 18, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Nov 16th	2013	3A	Boys	Football
Marysville-Pilchuck High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Eastside Catholic	14	14	7	7	35
Marysville-Pilchuck	7	7	14	7	28

See game recap below

Two Years in a Row, Crusaders end Tomahawks Season
By Colin Caruso

Kryptonite to the Marysville-Pilchuck Tomahawks comes in the form of the Crusaders from Eastside Catholic. Last year the contest ended in a 64-35 Crusader rout. This year the contest was much, much closer, but still barely out of reach.

With such a highly anticipated game, both stands were completely full and people were spilling out to surround the stadium. The Crusaders broke the 0-0 tie early in the first with a 2 yard run from sophomore workhorse back Brandon Wellington, his first of three scores on the day. But MP was not phased by the Crusader score, and answered with a 39 yard pass from senior Jake Luton to classmate Chris Jones to tie the score at 7-7. Wellington would add his second touchdown later in the first to take a 14-7 Crusader lead into the second quarter.

Star junior Austin Joyner tied the game again for the Tomahawks, this time early in the second frame with an electrifying 47 yard touchdown run. Eastside Catholic answered with two more scores on a pass and a run by sophomore quarterback Harley Kirsch to take a strong 28-14 lead into half.

Marysville-Pilchuck put together their strongest quarter just after half after senior Deion Stell for the Tomahawks punched in two touchdowns. Eastside Catholic 270 lb back rumbled for one score in the third, but MP closed the gap to just seven points entering the final frame.

The fourth quarter saw back and forth action, but no points scored until the final minute of play. With 56.7 seconds left, Tomahawk Austin Joyner ran in from 10 yards on his second touchdown of the day to tie the game at 28. The MP sideline and fans went crazy, enough to make the grandstands start shaking uncontrollably.

But just 20 seconds later, on the Crusaders first play from scrimmage after the tie, Wellington caught a pass out of the backfield and bolted down the right sideline for a 75 yard score. An unbelievable turn of events for the home-side Tomahawks, who thought they were set on an overtime thriller. The Tomahawks were unable to score on a couple of late deep throws, and the Crusaders ended the MP undefeated season with a 35-28 victory.

Top Performers:

Eastside Catholic
Brandon Wellington – 3 total TDs, 2 rushing, 1 receiving
Harley Kirsch – 3 total TDs, 2 passing, 1 rushing

Marysville-Pilchuck
Austin Joyner – 2 TD runs of 47 and 10 yards
Deion Stell – 2 TD runs of 37 and 25 yards

Lions and Tigers, Oh My!

Posted on November 18, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Nov 16th	2013	2B	Boys	Football
Sedro-Woolley High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Napavine	7	15	15	7	44
Concrete	8	8	0	0	16

See game recap below

Lions and Tigers, Oh My!
By Colin Caruso

In the 2B playoffs round of sixteen, Sedro-Woolley hosted the Concrete Lions and the Napavine Tigers on a chilly Saturday afternoon. Napavine’s fans came all the way from south of Chehalis, a close to 300 mile round trip to watch their Tigers put on a show, and the athletes did not disappoint.

Concrete jumped out to an early 8-0 lead on a 2 yard rush by senior Josh Rogge and a successful 2-point try. Napavine quickly answered with a 4 yard quarterback draw by Brady Woodrum to cut the lead to 8-7. The Tigers then forced a Lion punt and struck again on a long pass from freshman Wyatt Stanley to classmate Mark Fagerness to take a 14-8 lead. Concrete answered on their next drive with another 2 yard run, this time by Gibson Fichter, and a successful 2-point try by Fichter to take the lead back from the tigers, 16-14.

But the Lions would fail to see the endzone again on the day and Napavine began pouring on the points. Two more Wyatt Stanley touchdown passes and two more rushing touchdowns closed the contest for the Tigers, who pitched a shut out in the second half against a strong Concrete club. Napavine took care of business and will advance to the state quarterfinals with a 44-16 victory.

Top Performer:

Napavine
Wyatt Stanley – 3 TD passes of 30, 11, and 11 yards

Bellarmine Rallies to Shock Newport

Posted on November 17, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Nov 16th	2013	4A	Boys	Football
Newport High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Bellarmine Prep	0	14	7	17	38
Newport	14	14	0	7	35

See game video highlights below

Bellarmine Rallies to Shock Newport
By Steven Dion

The second round of the gridiron postseason featured a marquee matchup between a strong pair of 4A programs in Newport and Bellarmine Prep. Both teams entered the contest with a 7-2 record and a ticket to the final eight up for grabs. Despite cold temperatures and chilling winds, both sidelines were packed with enthusiastic fans rooting on their schools.

The home team got down to business early as the Knights found the end zone twice in the first frame; once through the air and the other on the ground. A 51 yard Drew Sample reception and 52 yard scamper by Conner Baumann created an early 14-0 lead. Baumann’s 6’3 222lb frame continued to punish the Lions’ front seven by notching two more TDs in the first half. The Lions built some momentum late in the 2nd by punching in two scores from QB Lou Millie to Garrett McKay. After trailing 21-0, it was evident that if Bellarmine were to stage a comeback, they would not be able to surrender another score. At the half, the Knights led 28-14.

Both teams exited the locker room with a mindset of increased defensive intensity. Lion linebacker Brandon Thompson and Knight D-line captain Bennett Long were two standout performers on defense, assisting in the process of forcing punts. The lone fumble of the contest was recovered by Newport at the 7:19 mark of the third and appeared a touchdown was the only thing separating them from securing a victory. Minutes later, Bellarmine found themselves in the end zone on a Jamal Ervin run. Newport’s fifth and final TD came early in the 4th, a 54 yard grab by Sample. Trailing 35-21 with only three minutes remaining, the Lions pulled within a score on a McKay touchdown. After a quick three-and-out by the Knights offense, Bellarmine had the ball once again. A run by Ervin and a two point conversion that appeared incomplete to the Newport sideline brought the game to a 35-35 tie.

The hungry BPHS defense forced a turnover on downs less than a minute later and set up kicker Matthew Philichi for a game winner from 20 yards out. The ball sailed through the uprights and sealed an improbable comeback for the 2012 state runner-up. Bellarmine ventures on, Newport finishes with a respectable 7-3 record.

Top Performers:
Bellarmine Prep
Garrett McKay – 3 rec TDs of 57, 12, and 12 yards

Newport
Conner Baumann – 3 rushing TDs of 54, 52, and 4 yards

Even Blackouts can’t Stop the Eastlake Wolves

Posted on November 16, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Nov 15th	2013	4A	Boys	Football
Eastlake High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Union	7	13	0	7	27
Eastlake	13	7	7	7	34

See game recap below

Even Blackouts can’t Stop the Eastlake Wolves
By Colin Caruso

The two blackouts on the evening at Eastlake High School didn’t phase the home side from narrowly holding onto their victory over the visiting Union Titans. The first blackout came just minutes before kickoff, and the second with just over four minutes remaining in the game, with Eastlake barely clutching a seven point lead.

Amazingly, the visiting Titans who travelled all the way from Vancouver, Washington, had a great support base and cheer section. The intensity was high for the entire contest, and the game itself did not disappoint. Eastlake scored first on a 35 yard run from junior running back Justin McOmber and Union responded immediately with a 47 yard pass from quarterback Nolan Henry to Alex Berfanger. The Wolves would add another score at the end of the first on Drew Lewis’ first of two touchdowns on the day.

Union came storming back in the second quarter with another touchdown pass from Henry, this time to Tyler Dionne, and a touchdown run from Leon Siofele to take their first and only lead of the game. The Wolves responded with a Richard ‘Blue’ Thomas run that resulted in a fumble but was picked up by fellow Wolf Gage Casal for a score. Shockingly enough, this happened in the fourth quarter as well, where Union fumbled, recovered their own fumble, and scampered for a score. This score for the Titans tied the game at 27.

Just three minutes later, Eastlake put together a fine drive that resulted in the last score of the game, a 1 yard touchdown run by Thomas. Eastlake narrowly escaped defeat, but held on 34-27 after a late interception and fumble recovery on defense. The Wolves will play Camas next weekend in the 4A state quarterfinals.

Top Performers:

Union
Nolan Henry – 2 TD passes of 47 and 4 yards

Eastlake
Drew Lewis – 2 TD runs of 36 and 2 yards

O’Dea Makes Quick Work of Kelso

Posted on November 11, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Saturday	Nov 9th	2013	3A	Boys	Football
Memorial Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Kelso	0	0	7	0	7
O'Dea	21	21	0	7	49

See game recap below

O’Dea Makes Quick Work of Kelso
By Colin Caruso

On a beautiful Saturday afternoon in Seattle Center’s Memorial Stadium, the Hilanders of Kelso took the trip to the big city to face off against Metro’s finest, the O’Dea Fighting Irish. Both teams brought a good fan base, even the Hilander fans making the 125 mile trip.

O’Dea began the scoring onslaught early in the contest. Quarterback Pierre LeDorze threw two touchdowns in the first quarter and added a rushing touchdown in the second. O’Dea running back Myles Gaskin added two rushing touchdowns of his own in the first half, and the Irish took a commanding 42-0 lead into halftime.

The 40 point rule was in effect throughout the second half, shortening up the game as it was fully in O’Dea’s control. Kelso was able to jump on the board late in the third quarter with a touchdown run by Lloyd Melone, which turned out to be their only score of the game. O’Dea added another touchdown in the fourth, and advances to the 3A round of 16 with a 49-7 win.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Hilander Tanner Hendrickson and his family. Tanner sustained a head/neck injury in the first quarter and was taken off the field in an ambulance.

Top Performers:

O’Dea
Pierre LeDorze – 2 passing TDs of 18 and 28 yards, rushing TD of 29 yards
Myles Gaskin – 2 rushing TDs of 20 yards and 75 yards

Bothell Drops Puyallup in First Round of Playoffs

Posted on November 9, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Nov 8th	2013	4A	Boys	Football
Pop Keeney Stadium	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Puyallup	0	0	7	7	14
Bothell	19	14	14	7	54

See game recap below

Bothell Drops Puyallup in First Round of Playoffs
By Steven Dion

The Bothell Cougars had a full week to think about their loss to Skyline last Friday. The 10th ranked team in 4A earned the opportunity to host a first round playoff game versus Puyallup from the SPSL. The Cougs have protected Pop Keeney Stadium nicely this year by beating their opponents by the combined score of 173-34 at home. Tonight was no exception. The Cougs broke the game wide open early by forcing three-and-outs and capitalizing on offense. Sam McPherson returned a punt 70 yards for the score to put BHS up 12-0 in the first. Before halftime, Bothell opened the playbook to the back page by testing senior receiver Cameron Gale’s arm from the flat; a connection with Jackson Keimig in the back of the end zone. At half, the host was up 33-0.

Halftime did not seem to halt the Bothell onslaught as the second half kickoff was returned 100 yards by McPherson. The Viks responded and were finally able to sustain a drive that yielded a handful of red zone snaps, one of which ended with a DJ Winter touchdown. The running clock was in effect during the second half so the scoring subsided greatly. A late score by Bothell was capitalized by a made point-after-touchdown by junior kicker Nicole Daoura. The Cougar sideline erupted as the lone female on either roster notched her first score of the season. Puyallup scored once more on a reception by Levi Jordan to cease the offense for both sides. After four quarters of play, Bothell walked away with a 54-14 win in dominating fashion. The Cougs advance, the Viks end their season 6-4.

Top Performer:

Bothell
Samuel McPherson – 4 total TDs, 2 rushing of 11 and 9 yards, 2 kickoff returns of 70 and 100 yards

Eastside Catholic Runs a Crusade Against the Abes

Posted on November 9, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Nov 8th	2013	3A	Boys	Football
Charlie Acosta Field	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Lincoln	0	7	7	7	21
Eastside Catholic	7	21	13	0	41

See game recap below

Eastside Catholic Runs a Crusade Against the Abes
By Colin Caruso

On a crisp November evening in Sammamish, the Eastside Catholic Crusaders faced off against the Lincoln Abes in the 3A playoffs round of 32. This was a tough first round playoff matchup, with both teams ranked in the top 10 in the state in 3A. Eastside Catholic jumped out to a 21-0 lead early, capitalizing on two Abe turnovers and showing great success in both running and throwing the football. Lincoln needed a first half score and put together a great 2-minute drill drive at the end of the first half, capped off by a 2 yard TD run from sophomore quarterback Jordan Kitna with just 46 seconds remaining in the half. On the ensuing kickoff, Lincoln gave up a 60 yard return and a three play touchdown drive to the Crusaders in just 33 seconds, a brutal blow to the Abes. Eastside Catholic took a comfortable 28-7 lead into halftime.

Coming out of the locker room at half Lincoln needed another quick score to stay in the ballgame and got it on a beautiful pass and catch from Kitna to senior Rayshaun Miller. But again the Crusaders responded, this time a touchdown run from sophomore workhorse back Brandon Wellington, his second touchdown of the game. Both teams added another score before the contest was over, and the Crusaders topped the Abes by a final of 41-21. Eastside Catholic’s next contest will be Marysville-Pilchuck in the round of 16 in Marysville.

Top Performers:

Lincoln
Jordan Kitna – TD pass of 80 yards and TD run of 2 yards

Eastside Catholic
Harley Kirsch – 3 TD passes of 20 yards, 15 yards, and 22 yards
Brandon Wellington – 2 TD runs of 4 yards and 2 yards

Spanaway Lake Offense Erupts Versus Mount Rainier

Posted on November 8, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Thursday	Nov 7th	2013	4A	Boys	Football
Highline Memorial	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Spanaway Lake	8	16	8	6	38
Mount Rainier	0	0	6	0	6

See game recap below

Spanaway Lake Offense Erupts Versus Mount Rainier
By Steven Dion

The final game for both SPSL’s Rams and Sentinels was played at a windy, rainy Highline Memorial Stadium Thursday night. This game did not have any playoff implications but school pride was on the line, and the effort displayed during all 48 minutes was evident. Spanaway Lake set the tone early by establishing the running game and finding the end zone on a 14-yard run by Kyle Mason. The Sentinels’ ability to pound the ball up the field on the ground led to lengthy possessions. Joseph Martin punched in a 3-yard QB keeper to give Spanaway Lake a 14-0 lead early in the second frame. A safety and another Martin score were added before intermission to give SLHS a 24-0 lead.

The teams emerged from the locker room to close out their seasons with a more competitive second half of play. Ram senior quarterback Matthew Dammeier remained poised in the pocket despite heavy pressure by the likes of Augustus Ndow. Mount Rainier found the scoreboard on a goal-line push, but the incompletion on the two-point conversion squelched any chance of a comeback. The Sentinels were able to find the end zone twice more before the final buzzer to finish the season on a high note with a 38-6 win.

Bellevue Closes Another Undefeated Regular Season

Posted on November 2, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Nov 1st	2013	3A	Boys	Football
Bellevue High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Mercer Island	0	7	0	0	7
Bellevue	7	21	7	14	49

See game recap below

Bellevue Closes Another Undefeated Regular Season
By Colin Caruso

In somewhat of a rivalry game, the Bellevue Wolverines were matched with the Mercer Island Islanders to close another undefeated regular season for the Wolverines. The rivalry is much more apparent in basketball, as these two teams battle competitively on the hard-court but Bellevue has had the upper hand on the gridiron.

Bellevue struck fast and early, with a 78 yard touchdown pass from QB Timmy Haehl to sophomore standout receiver Isaiah Gilchrist. The story of this game was Gilchrist, who added another touchdown catch and a blocked FG return for a touchdown, for three scores on the day. The Wolverines scored 28 points in the first half but allowed a late score to the Islanders, a pass from backup QB Alfonso Gonzalez to Eric Kim to trim the lead to 28-7 at half.

Bellevue was again dominate in the second half, scoring 21 unanswered points to secure the 49-7 victory and another undefeated regular season. Mercer Island, after three losses to close the season, will finish with a respectable 4-4 record.

Top Performers:
Mercer Island
Alfonso Gonzalez – TD pass

Bellevue
Isaiah Gilchrist – 3TD (2 receiving, one blocked FG return)
Timmy Haehl – 2TD passes of 78 and 41 yards

To The King, a Crown; Skyline

Posted on October 26, 2013 by colincarusoZUMA

Friday	Oct. 25	2013	4A	Boys	Football
Issaquah High School	1st	2nd	3rd	4th	Final
Skyline	0	3	27	0	30
Issaquah	0	10	0	7	17

See game recap below

To The King, a Crown; Skyline
By Colin Caruso

At risk was the #1 team in the 4A KingCo-Crown league, with the matchup of all-too-familiar opponents who have battled well over the past several years. The Skyline Spartans traveled to their neighbor Issaquah to face the Eagles, the winner to secure a matchup against the top of the KingCo-Crest league. Students and fans from all over came to create a buzz of noise that lasted until the game concluded, which saw

Issaquah broke the scoring drought first in the second quarter, a 44 yard pass from senior quarterback Jack Neary to his senior star wide receiver Derek Chapman. The Issaquah sideline exploded as their Eagles took a 7-0 lead. The teams would exchange field goals later in the quarter and Issaquah took a 10-3 lead into half.

Skyline coach Mat Taylor had something brewing in that halftime speech, because his Spartans came out ready to play in the second half. A 27-0 third quarter in favor of the Spartans completely changed the complexion of the game. Touchdowns came from all different avenues; a pass from Kilton Anderson to Derek Loville, two rushing scores, and a special teams score. Issaquah needed a response and succeeded early in the fourth on another strike from Neary to Chapman to cut the lead to 30-17. But Skyline’s defense held tough, with an amazing second half performance from their defensive line to pressure Neary relentlessly. Skyline secured the victory 30-17 and a matchup with the 4A KingCo-Crest champion Bothell.

Top Performers:
Skyline
Kilton Anderson – 26 yard TD pass
Rashaad Boddie and Chandler Wong – TD run each

Issaquah
Jack Neary – 2TD passes of 44 and 19 yards
Derek Chapman – 2TD receptions