From the Goal Line

Looking at the 3A basketball tournament

Megan Managan — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:42:22 +0000

Joel Willits, sports editor at the Bellevue Reporter (our sister paper), put up his predictions and a look at the 3A basketball state tournament this week in Tacoma.

Joel, who will be covering the Bellevue boys this week, has predictions for both the boys and girls tournaments, but I felt like his predictions were especially dead-on for the girls tournament – check out what Joel thought here.

The Mercer Island girls will face Mount Rainier tomorrow afternoon at 3:30 p.m. A win over the Rams will pit the Islanders against the winner of the Kennedy Catholic/East Valley (Spokane) game on Thursday night at 7 p.m.

A loss to Mt. Rainier pushes the Islanders into the consolation bracket to face the loser of the Kennedy Catholic/East Valley game at noon on Thursday.

From there things get murkier, at least until we know if the team starts off the tourney with a win or a loss.

I’ll be updating live all week from the Mercer Island girls games at the Tacoma Dome on Twitter (MIRsports) and either here or on our Web site .

Islander siblings play back to back DI lacrosse games

Megan Managan — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:20:10 +0000

Big thanks to Barry and Kathryn Mahony for passing this tidbit along.

Caroline and her older brother Gregory Mahony, both Mercer Island High School graduates and lacrosse players recently saw each other during back to back Division I lacrosse games at Hofstra in New York. The event wouldn’t be that unusual, except the duo play for different schools, on opposite sides of the country.
Caroline, a 2009 MI grad, plays for St. Mary’s College in California, while brother Greg, a 2007 MI grad, plays for Yale University.
The siblings both played games at Hofstra on Long Island in New York on Saturday, Feb. 20, with Caroline taking the field first, followed by a scrimmage between the Hofstra and Yale men’s teams.
“This is believed to be among the first, if not the first, sister-and-brother combo from different DI schools to start back-to-back games on the same day against the same school,” their parents wrote in an email.
The St. Mary’s team lost 21-3 to Hofstra.

Preview of Saturday’s district title game

Megan Managan — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 18:44:46 +0000

After last night’s win over Seattle Prep the Mercer Island girls basketball team earned their spot in the Sea-King District tournament championship game. They will take on the Holy Names Cougars Saturday night (8:15 p.m. tipoff) at Bellevue College.

The Islanders have cemented their spot in next week’s state tournament at the Tacoma Dome which starts on Wednesday. Once there is an updated bracket we’ll let you know when and who the Islanders will be facing.

Until then here’s a quick look at the two teams facing off on Saturday night.

Mercer Island finished their regular season with a 11-1 KingCo record and 20-4 overall record. Top scorers include Hannah Lilly, averaging 13.2 points per game, Hailey Gullstad, averaging 10.5 per game and Jae Shin with 9.9 per game. The Islanders are well versed at spreading the offensive duties around, so pretty much anyone can score at any time. Gullstad came out of last night’s game against Seattle Prep after she crashed into the padding behind the basket in the first minute of the fourth quarter. She sat out the rest of the game and no word on whether or not it will force her to day Saturday night off, but with four days to rest we’ll have to wait and see.

Holy Names finished their Metro season undefeated at 16-0 and have a 22-2 overall record. The Cougars leading scorers, junior guard Claire Conricode averages 14.1 per game, while junior forward Erika Johnson averages 12.1 a game. During the team’s 66-47 win over Cleveland on Tuesday afternoon Conricode had 20 points, while freshman Sophie Reichelt had 22 points, the game high.

The Cougars are tall and athletic so it should make for an exciting match up against the Islanders on Saturday. Seattle Prep had trouble slowing down the Mercer Island offense, as have many teams this season. It should make for an exciting match-up on Saturday.

Who will be Sea-King champs?

(polls)

Girls basketball district update

Megan Managan — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 23:13:12 +0000

The Mercer Island girls basketball team – who earned a first round bye in the district tournament – will be playing Lakeside tomorrow night starting at 6:30 p.m. at Bellevue College.

The girls, who had to top seed going into the tournament, are searching for one of the four state berths given to the KingCo and Metro league teams.

If the girls win on Friday night they will move into the semi-finals on March 2. Here’s a breakdown on the possibilities:

With a win: girls advance to 8:15 p.m. March 2 semi-final at Bellevue College. They will play either Nathan Hale or Seattle Prep (whoever wins)

With a loss: girls move into consolation bracket and play the loser of the Nathan Hale/Seattle Prep game. If the girls lose at any point after this they will be done for the season.

Also still alive in the girls tournament is Juanita, who will play Holy Names and Bellevue who goes up against Cleveland.

The championship game will be held March 6 at Bellevue College. The top four teams from this tournament advance to the state tournament in Tacoma March 10-13.

MI’s 3A All-KingCo representatives

Megan Managan — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:14:24 +0000

The All-KingCo basketball teams were announced at the end of the KingCo basketball tournament last Friday night.

Named to the first team from Mercer Island was junior Quinn Sterling and senior Kaj Sherman. Brian Miller received an honorable mention, while Bellevue’s Aaron Bright was named the KingCo boys league MVP and Sammamish coach Wes Newton was coach of the year.

Robert Burmeister/Contributed photo

In the girls league Hailey Gullstad was named the MVP while Islander head coach Jamie Prescott was the coach of the year.
Named to the first team from Mercer Island was Hannah Lilly, while Kate DaPron and Jae Shin were named to the second team.

Thoughts from Tuesday’s boys game

Megan Managan — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 21:37:29 +0000

This afternoon the Mercer Island boys basketball team will take on Mt. Si in the second round of the KingCo playoffs. They outlasted Juanita in a loser out game on Tuesday. Here are some of head coach Gavin Cree’s thoughts on Tuesday night and what the team needs to accomplish today.

“At half time we felt like Juanita had outhustled us. We challenged the players to play harder and with more energy, but also to play smarter. The first half was littered with turnovers and a lack of ball movement. In the second half, we moved the ball better and were able to break down their zone a little bit easier. Juanita’s coaching staff does a great job of taking their opponents out of their comfort zone. They make you play sloppy, they have done it all year. We were able to hold on and beat them going away by 17 which was a nice accomplishment.”

On the fact that MI beat Mount Si in their last meeting:

“Having beat them last week gives us confidence going into the Kingco playoff matchup. We need to outrebound them and take care of the basketball. Any time we can do those two things, we become a very difficult team to beat. I know Mount Si will come out hungry though and we will need to exceed their will to win. That was the case last week and it will be the key this time as well.”

On standout players during the Juanita game:

“Sloan Aikens and Ben Emanuels played terrific defense on Ryon Cunnigan all night. Cunnigan averages close to 20 a game and we were able to hold him to 15 and a very low shooting percentage. Those two guys have been stoppers for us all year. They are doing a great job. It helped us to hold Juanita to 33 points.”

Stealth holding food drive at Feb. 19 game

Megan Managan — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 20:40:44 +0000

Here’s press release from Michael Kennett with the Washington Stealth lacrosse team. If you are heading up to the game, make sure to take donation and if you don’t have any other plans for that night, why not take in a professional sporting event and help the community out at the same time?

Everett, Wash. – On Friday, Feb. 19, the Washington Stealth will be holding a food drive and fundraiser to benefit Northwest Harvest during its game against the Calgary Roughnecks at the Comcast Arena. Northwest Harvest and its 300+ partner food banks across the state of Washington provide nutritious food to those in need, and this weekend will be another opportunity to help.

“We are excited to begin this partnership and work with the Stealth for a long time,” said Cherry Street Food Bank Manager, Matt Campbell, who is in his third year with Northwest Harvest. “We hope people will come out and support the team and help out Northwest Harvest in the process.”

Fans attending the game are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to donate to Northwest Harvest. Monetary donations will also be accepted. The Stealth will also be making a $5,000 donation to Northwest Harvest at halftime. Fans can also bid on autographed Stealth merchandise and prize packages during the game, with all the proceeds benefitting Northwest Harvest.

The event gives Northwest Harvest a chance to further broaden its reach throughout the state of Washington. “We have food banks across the state, including a number of banks in Snohomish County,” added Campbell, “but we haven’t held too many events in Everett. The Stealth are getting noticed up there and they provide a great avenue to help out the community.”

Northwest Harvest receives no city, county, state, or federal funding for operating expenses and relies solely on contributions from individuals, businesses, foundations, and other organizations.

The Stealth take on the defending National Lacrosse League Champion Calgary Roughnecks on Friday at the Comcast Arena at Everett. The game is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Tickets start at just $13 and can be purchased by calling 877-MY-75-TIX or at www.stealthlax.com.

Basketball playoff update

Megan Managan — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 23:00:52 +0000

Now that teams have finished their regular season games the KingCo basketball bracket and schedule is pretty much set to go. Both the Mercer Island teams made the cut for the league tournament, which starts Tuesday night at higer seeded schools.

Boys tournament

The MI boys will play Tuesday, against Juanita at MIHS starting at 7 p.m. in a loser out game.

“Tuesday’s Kingco playoff game versus Juanita is a loser out game and you can throw the records out. They are going to come in and play hard and they have some dangerous weapons. We can’t be looking ahead,” said boys head coach Gavin Cree after Thursday’s home win over Mount Si.

Sammamish will take on Liberty in the No. 4/No. 5 game at Sammamish on Tuesday. The winner of the Mercer Island/Juanita game will play Mount Si at 3 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 18 at Bellevue College, while Bellevue, the No. 1 boys seed, will take on the winner of the Sammamish/Liberty game.

Girls tournament

Mercer Island earned a bye in the first round after clinching the KingCo title, heading into the tournament as No. 1. They will play on Thursday night at Bellevue College at 8:15 p.m. against the winner of the Liberty/Mount Si game which takes place Tuesday night.

For the rest of the KingCo teams, Tuesday is the big day with Juanita hosting Interlake and Mount Si hosting Liberty. The winner of the Juanita/Interlake game will play Bellevue on Thursday evening.

Championship round

The KingCo tournament will finish up on Friday, Feb. 19 at Bellevue College. The 3rd/4th place boys game will be at 3 p.m. Friday, with the 3rd/4th girls tipping off at 4:45 p.m.

The boys championship will be at 6:30 p.m. and the girls is scheduled to start at 8:15 p.m.

Prices

Due to the fact this is a league tournament students will not be able to get into games free with their ASB cards (as they can throughout the regular season). Here’s the price breakdown from KingCo:

Adult/students without ASB       $6.00
Students (with ASB)                     $4.00
Children K-8                                  $4.00
Pre-school                                      N/C
Senior Citizens (60 yrs +)           $4.00

Eastside Catholic’s bid for KingCo denied

Megan Managan — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 18:43:13 +0000

Monday the principals and athletic directors of the KingCo conference met and voted on whether or not to include Eastside Catholic as a 3A school next year. The bid by the Crusaders failed. The proposal needed 80 percent to pass.

Check out Sammamish/Issaquah sportswriter Kevin Endejan’s story on the meeting and vote.

Week 10 basketball poll

Megan Managan — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 18:40:04 +0000

Here are the week 10 basketball rankings. A few notes before diving into the rankings – The MI girls jumped up a spot to No. 3 this week, and last night were confirmed as KingCo champs again this year. Bellevue lost to Mount Si, clearing the way for the Islanders.

The Bellevue boys, ranked No. 2 this week, will likely/possibly drop next week after Tuesday night’s loss to Mount Si, who are ranked No. 6 right now. The shake-up could definitely make next week’s KingCo tournament an interesting one!

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

Class 4A girls
1. Auburn Riverside (20-0)
2. Woodinville (17-1)
3. Issaquah (15-3)
4. Federal Way (17-3)
5. Chiawana (16-2)
6. Edmonds-Woodway (18-1)
7. Newport (16-2)
8. Jackson (16-3)
9. Bellarmine Prep (14-6)
10. Kentwood (16-4)
Others receiving votes: Richland (15-4), Bethel (16-4), Marysville-Pilchuck (15-5), Mount Tahoma (17-3)

Class 3A boys
1. Enumclaw (18-0)
2. Bellevue (17-1)
3. Rainier Beach (15-3)
4. Seattle Prep (14-4)
5. Lakes (15-3)
6. Mount Si (14-4)
7. Capital (16-1)
8. Shadle Park (14-4)
9. Meadowdale (14-4)
10. O’Dea (13-6)
Others receiving votes: Mead (13-5), Bremerton (11-4), Kennedy Catholic (13-6), Franklin Pierce (12-5), Foster (13-5)

Class 3A girls
1. Holy Names (17-2)
2. Kennedy Catholic (16-2)
3. Mercer Island (14-4)
4. White River (15-3)
5. Bonney Lake (15-4)
6. Port Angeles (15-2)
7. Mount Rainier (15-3)
8. Prarie (14-4)
9. Lakes (12-6)
10. Central Valley (14-4)
Others receiving votes: West Valley (12-6), Bellevue (12-6), Olympic (13-4), Yelm (13-5), Shorecrest (13-6), Capital (13-5), Seattle Prep (11-6)

Lots of local soccer seniors head to DI schools

Megan Managan — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 19:32:00 +0000

Tuesday, I posted a quick blurb on this blog about the fact that two MIHS girls soccer players would be headed to play for Division I schools this coming fall. Turns out one of them was a member of another team setting an amazing precedent for girls soccer in Puget Sound.

As Issaquah Reporter sportswriter Kevin Endejan posted earlier, 16 players (the entire team) from the Crossfire ‘91 team will play soccer at college next year. That roster includes Mary Hill, a senior at MIHS, who will play at Seattle University this fall.

See my story in next week’s paper after talking to Hill and her best friend and teammate Erin Bourguignon.

Week 9 basketball poll

Megan Managan — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 22:24:04 +0000

Here is the Week 9 basketball poll. Things are starting to cement as the post-season draws closer – at least in the top spots. Although I will say teams who lose at this point are likely to fall far, as was the case with Issaquah, who went from No. 2 in the 4A girls poll all the way down to No. 4. The Newport girls hung tough, edging up to the vacant No. 2 spot.

Bellevue is still dominating the 3A boys league, locally and across the state with a perfect Enumclaw team their only obstacle to No. 1. Tonight the Wolverine’s host the Mercer Island boys and tomorrow the Mercer Island girls, who stayed in No. 4 travel to take on Bellevue.

As the post-season gets closer – who do you think will be moving up or down as the season continues? Thoughts/comments? Let me know!

Class 4A boys
1. Federal Way (16-1)
2. Gonzaga Prep (16-1)
3. Curtis (17-1)
4. Jackson (15-1)
5. Walla Walla (15-2)
6. Kamiakin (12-3)
7. Richland (14-3)
8. Skyline (13-3)
9. Lake Stevens (13-4)
10. Garfield (12-4)
Others receiving votes: Beamer (13-5), Decatur (13-6)

Class 4A girls
1. Auburn Riverside (18-0)
2. Newport (15-1)
3. Woodinville (15-1)
4. Issaquah (13-3)
5. Federal Way (15-4)
6. Edmonds-Woodway (15-1)
7. Chiawana (16-1)
8. Jackson (13-3)
9. Kentwood (14-4)
10. Wenatchee (11-4)
Others receiving votes: South Kitsap (13-5), Richland (13-4), Mount Tahoma (16-3), Marysville-Pilchuck (13-4), Bethel (14-4)

Class 3A boys
1. Enumclaw (16-0)
2. Bellevue (16-1)
3. Rainier Beach (13-3)
4. Seattle Prep (14-3)
5. Lakes (14-2)
6. Mount Si (12-4)
7. Capital (14-1)
8. Shadle Park (12-4)
9. Meadowdale (13-3)
10. O’Dea (12-5)
Others receiving votes: Bremerton (10-4), Mount Rainier (11-5), Franklin Pierce (10-5)

Class 3A girls
1. Holy Names (15-2)
2. Kennedy Catholic (14-3)
3. White River (15-2)
4. Mercer Island (13-3)
5. Bonney Lake (13-4)
6. Port Angeles (13-2)
7. Mount Rainier (14-2)
8. Yelm (12-4)
9. Sumner (11-5)
10. Lakeside (11-6)
Others receiving votes: Central Valley (12-4), Shorecrest (11-5), Prarie (13-3), West Valley (11-4)

Two Islanders declare intent to play college soccer

Megan Managan — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 20:54:53 +0000

Two members of the Mercer Island High School girls soccer team have made verbal committments and will sign their letters of intent tomorrow to play college soccer.

Friends and co-captains Mary Hill and Erin Bourguignon have both said they plan to play next year, with Hill suiting up for Seattle University and Bourguignon for Eastern Washington University.

Tomorrow is National Signing Day, with high school seniors across the country committing, on paper, to play their sport for the college which they’ve been accepted to.

The Islanders had a historic run in 2009, finishing second at state, losing in a shootout to Columbia River. It was the first time the girls soccer team had made the state finals, and it was the first team to win a KingCo title since 2002.

I’ll be talking with both girls this afternoon for a story in next week’s paper.

Paddle surfing race on Lake Union tomorrow

Megan Managan — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 22:00:25 +0000

Back in September of 2009 I had the chance to interview local paddle surfers Dan Eberhardt and Jeff Underwood. They organized the first ever, very successful ‘Round the Rock paddle surfing competition around Mercer Island.

This weekend there is another local race, the Pacific Northwest Outrigger Racing Canoe Association (PNWORCA) will host a 6 mile race around Lake Union, Saturday, Jan. 30 at 11 a.m. It’s open to all crafts, including paddle surfers. Head to their Web site for more information on the race and the club.

Week 8 basketball poll

Megan Managan — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 17:54:27 +0000

Here’s the latest basketball poll as voted on by sports writers in the Reporter Newspaper group.

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

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

Class 3A boys
1. Enumclaw (14-0)
2. Bellevue (14-1)
3. Rainier Beach (12-3)
4. Seattle Prep (12-3)
5. Lakes (10-4)
6. O’Dea (11-4)
7. Mount Si (11-4)
8. Shadle Park (10-3)
9. Capital (12-1)
10. Foster (11-3)
Others receiving votes: Sammamish (11-4), Meadowdale (11-3), Franklin (7-7), Kennedy Catholic (10-5)

Class 3A girls
1. Holy Names (13-2)
2. Kennedy Catholic (12-3)
3. White River (12-2)
4. Mercer Island (11-3)
5. Lakes (10-4)
6. Mount Rainier (12-2)
7. Bonney Lake (11-4)
8. Yelm (11-4)
9. Port Angeles (12-2)
10. Sumner (10-4)
Others receiving votes: Shorecrest (9-4), Seattle Prep (10-4), Juanita (10-5), Shadle Park (8-5), Lakeside (9-6)

Week 7 basketball poll

Megan Managan — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 19:11:04 +0000

The poll is voted on by sportswriters from various Reporter papers in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. Feel free to chime in with your thoughts and opinions.

The Mercer Island girls are sitting at No. 4 in the 3A poll, but those top four teams essentially hold the same record. The Islander girls outlasted a tough Mt. Si team last night 51-50.

Issaquah and Newport in the girls 4A poll still sit in top spots, as do the Bellevue boys who held on to No. 2 this week, despite a close game against Sammamish last week.

Class 4A boys
1. Federal Way (12-1)
2. Gonzaga Prep (12-1)
3. Curtis (14-1)
4. Richland (12-1)
5. Jackson (11-1)
6. Walla Walla (11-2)
7. Skyline (12-1)
8. Lake Stevens (10-4)
9. Decatur (11-4)
10. Foss (10-3)
Others receiving votes: Kamiakin (11-2), Lincoln (8-5), Kentridge (11-4)

Class 4A girls
1. Auburn Riverside (15-0)
2. Woodinville (12-0)
3. Issaquah (11-1)
4. Newport (11-1)
5. Federal Way (11-3)
6. Edmonds-Woodway (11-1)
7. Kentwood (11-3)
8. Jackson (11-1)
9. Chiawana (11-1)
10. Lewis and Clark (8-5)
Others receiving votes: Bellarmine Prep (9-5), Marysville-Pilchuck (10-3), Mount Tahoma (12-2)

Class 3A boys
1. Enumclaw (13-0)
2. Bellevue (13-1)
3. Rainier Beach (11-3)
4. Seattle Prep (11-3)
5. Lakes (11-2)
6. O’Dea (10-4)
7. Shadle Park (9-3)
8. Mount Si (10-4)
9. Capital (10-1)
10. Kennedy Catholic (9-5)
Others receiving votes: Meadowdale (10-2), Franklin Pierce (8-4), Sammamish (10-4), Shorecrest (9-3), Franklin (7-6)

Class 3A girls
1. Holy Names (11-2)
2. Kennedy Catholic (11-4)
3. White River (11-3)
4. Mercer Island (11-3)
5. Lakes (9-4)
6. Bonney Lake (10-3)
7. Yelm (10-1)
8. Mount Rainier (11-2)
9. Lakeside (8-5)
10. Seattle Prep (7-6)
Others receiving votes: Shadle Park (7-5), Port Angeles (11-2), Shorecrest (7-4), Sumner (8-4), Meadowdale (8-4), Renton (7-4)

Week 6 basketball poll

Megan Managan — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 19:17:35 +0000

The season is right around the half way mark and the basketball polls couldn’t be any closer. The top three teams in the boys 3A poll were separated by just one point this week with undefeated Bellevue nabbing the top spot.

The Mercer Island girls jumped into the top five with a No. 4 ranking in the state. They are in firm command of the 3A KingCo league after dominating against Bellevue last Friday. As a little side note based on the numbers I’ve been seeing there are no undefeated 3A girls teams in the state this season.

The Bellevue boys took the top place in the 3A ranking as they are undefeated at 11-0. After watching them play against a fired up MI boys team last Friday, the Wolverines were cool and calm, obviously in control as they have been all season.

In the 4A girls arena Issaquah and Newport swapped No. 3 and No. 4 after the Lady Eagles beat Newport in the Knights first loss this season. Should be interesting to see how things play out until March.

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

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

Class 3A boys
1. Bellevue (11-0)
2. Enumclaw (9-0)
3. Rainier Beach (7-3)
4. Seattle Prep (8-3)
5. Lakes (7-2)
6. O’Dea (8-3)
7. Shadle Park (8-2)
8. Mount Si (8-3)
9. Hazen (9-2)
10. Capital (7-1)
Others receiving votes: Franklin (5-5), Meadowdale (7-2), Columbia River (7-3), Foster (7-2), Hudson’s Bay (8-1), Sammamish (9-3)

Class 3A girls
1. Holy Names (9-2)
2. Kennedy Catholic (8-3)
3. White River (8-1)
4. Mercer Island (8-3)
5. Sumner (8-2)
6. Bonney Lake (8-3)
7. Lakes (7-3)
8. Mount Rainier (8-2)
9. Shadle Park (7-3)
10. Lakeside (7-5)
Others receiving votes: Prarie (6-3), Yelm (9-1), Mount Tahoma (10-2), Meadowdale (5-4), Shorecrest (5-3)

Reclassification notes

Megan Managan — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 21:40:48 +0000

A while back I put out some information that Eastside Catholic was considering a bid to join KingCo as a 3A school. Well sounds like the process is still going on (thanks to an update from my colleague Joel Willits at the Bellevue Reporter). In his blog, after discussing the recent new Interlake football hire, Art Kuehn, Interlake’s AD, made a quick mention of the Crusaders bid.

Check out From the Sidelines to see what Kuehn had to say about EC and the Saints new coach. As we hear more we’ll keep you posted!

Friday’s MIHS gym dedication details

Megan Managan — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 23:26:23 +0000

This was just passed along to me from MIHS Athletic coordinator Ann Meisner about Friday’s dedication of the MI gym to former boys head coach Ed Pepple. On the night the Islanders host league rival Bellevue the community is going to get a chance to say thanks for Pepple’s many years of service.

The school is expecting the gym to be standing room only for the event, which will take place between the girls and boys varsity games Friday night. The girls tip off at 6:30 p.m. and sometime likely between 7:50 and 8:15 p.m. the ceremony will start, which Meisner said they expect to last 15 to 20 minutes.

The presentation is going to include Pete Nordstrom, of the Mercer Island basketball alumni group, Gary Plano, MISD’s superintendent, Janet Frohnmayer, MISD board member, Craig Olson, MIHS athletic director and Pepple. During the ceremony the gym will be dedicated and a plaque will be present to Pepple.

Following the ceremony the varsity boys teams will have 15 minutes of warm up in the main gym and approximately between 8:25 and 8:45 p.m. the boys game will start.

Because the school is expecting so many people there will be two ticket selling stations for the evening and those who plan to attend either the games or the ceremony are encouraged to arrive early and plan for a crowd. There is no pre-sale of tickets for the evening. Parking is available at any of the high school lots, as well as parking in the neighborhood around the high school.

Meisner also said the concession stand (featuring pizza, soda, water and snacks) will open at 5:30 p.m., but that only water is allowed in the gym, so tables and chairs will be available in the commons for people to eat.

Should make for not only a good night of basketball, but a great chance to see the school and community thank Pepple for all his work.

Bloom named Stealth captain

Megan Managan — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 23:32:42 +0000

Mercer Island local and member of the Washington Stealth professional lacrosse team, Jason Bloom, has been named a captain for the team with Cam Sedgwick and Kyle Sorensen named assistant captains.
Jason, who is in his fourth year as an National Lacrosse League player, previously playing for Boston and Colorado, grew up in Vancouver, British Columbia.
I had the chance to interview Jason a couple of weeks ago at his ‘other’ job as a real estate professional in downtown Bellevue. He was great to talk to and really gave me a sense of just how accessible lacrosse is at the professional level (a goal of most teams, players and the league in general).
During the 2009 season with the Boston Blazers, Jason played in 16 games, had 13 goals, 10 assists and earned 23 points for the team, all while commuting for games and practices from Florida, where he was finishing his master’s degree.
In a press release sent out by the Stealth head coach Chris Hall said “Jason was an obvious choice for us” and that he has shown exceptional leadership qualities during the short time he’s been with the team (Jason was an offseason acquisition to the team this summer).
The Washington Stealth kick off their season Jan. 9 at Comcast Arena in Everett, taking on Colorado Mammoth (Jason’s old team) in the first professional lacrosse regular season game in Washington state.
Check out www.stealthlax.com for more information on the upcoming season.

Week 5 Reporter basketball poll

Megan Managan — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 19:49:30 +0000

After what feels like much more than a week off here’s our latest basketball poll. The 4A boys stayed pretty much the same, with the exception of Lake Washington jumping from the ‘other’ category to No. 5 with a 7-1 record. In 4A girls Newport jumped up to No. 2, staying undefeated after defeating Mercer Island last week in a non-conference match up. Lewis and Clark fell from No. 2 all the way down to No. 6 after two straight losses during the break. The boys of Rainier Beach in the 3A poll fell from No. 1 to No. 3 after going 1-3 over the break (which coincidentally is the same record the MIHS boys had over the holidays – except they haven’t made the poll yet). So undefeated Enumclaw and Bellevue take the top two spots. The Mercer Island girls stayed in the No. 6 spot for the 3A girls, White River and Kennedy Catholic swapped the No. 2 and 3 positions, while Holy Names stayed firmly in the top place.

This Friday the Islanders will be taking on Bellevue, both girls and boys teams. It will be a good chance to check out the Wolverines undefeated boys team and to see Aaron Bright in action, and another conference test for the girls. Tip off is 6:30 p.m.

Week Five Basketball Poll

The Reporter Newspapers Basketball Poll is voted on by members of various Reporter Newspapers across the state.
Class 4A
1. Federal Way (7-0)
2. Jackson (7-0)
3. Curtis (10-0)
4. Gonzaga Prep (7-1)
5. Lake Washington (7-1)
6. Decatur (7-2)
7. Foss (7-2)
8. Kamiakin (8-0)
9. Richland (7-0)
10. Walla Walla (6-2)
Others who receiving votes: Lake Stevens (6-3), Kentridge (7-3), Skyline (6-1), Davis (6-1)

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

Class 3A boys
1. Enumclaw (7-0)
2. Bellevue (10-0)
3. Rainier Beach (5-3)
4. Mount Si (7-2)
5. Lakes (6-1)
6. Shadle Park (7-2)
7. Seattle Prep (6-3)
8. O’Dea (7-2)
9. Bainbridge (6-2)
10. Union (5-3)
Others receiving votes: Capital (6-1), Foster (6-2), Shorecrest (5-2), Cascade (6-2), Hudson’s Bay (6-1), Hazen (7-2)

Class 3A girls
1. Holy Names (8-2)
2. White River (7-1)
3. Kennedy Catholic (6-2)
4. Lakes (6-2)
5. Bonney Lake (7-2)
6. Mercer Island (7-3)
7. Shadle Park (6-3)
8. Prarie (7-3)
9. Mount Rainier (7-1)
10. Cleveland (4-2)
Others receiving votes: Ferndale (4-2), Meadowdale (5-2), Mount Tahoma (8-2), Yelm (8-1)

No basketball poll this week

Megan Managan — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 21:37:03 +0000

The Reporter sports writers are taking a break from the basketball poll this week, not many new wins or losses in the last week to make any difference to our teams. Next week we’ll be back in full swing.

A big game to note however is tomorrow night the Mercer Island girls will take on Newport (who is currntly undefeated) at Newport (a change from the original schedule) starting at 7:30 p.m. While the team’s are not in the same classification anymore it used to be a big rivarly and still is a game both sides look forward to each year. I’ll be updating live from the event with scores etc. at MIRsports from Twitter if you want to follow along!

So tune in next week to see where the MI girls and boys fit into the state’s top 10 4A/3A girls and boys teams.

Week 3 Reporter basketball poll

Megan Managan — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 20:32:26 +0000

The latest poll is out, with a few changes, as most high school teams take a break for the holidays this week and next. There are still quite a few undefeated teams, except in the girls 3A poll, where none of the ranked teams are undefeated.

The MIHS girls bumped back up to 6th this week, after playing down in Arizona at the Nike Tournament of Champions over the weekend. Next week the girls return for their first game back in Washington, taking on undefeated Newport, in a game that will surely test both sides.

The Islander boys team made the other category this week. They whopped on Interlake last week, beating the Saints by 20 points, but had trouble against a strong O’Dea squad the weekend before. Their first home game back from the break will be Bellevue on Jan. 8

In the 4A boys poll Kentwood dropped from the poll completely, after the team continues to play without Josh Smith.

The Reporter Newspapers Basketball Poll is voted on by members of various Reporter Newspapers across the state.

Class 4A boys
1. Federal Way (7-0)
2. Jackson (6-0)
3. Gonzaga Prep (5-0)
4. Curtis (7-0)
5. Decatur (6-1)
6. Walla Walla (4-1)
7. Lake Stevens (6-0)
8. Foss (5-1)
9. Mead (5-1)
10. Davis (6-0)
Others receiving votes: Lake Washington (6-1), Kentridge (3-1), Richland (6-0)

Class 4A girls
1. Auburn Riverside (7-0)
2. Lewis and Clark (5-1)
3. Newport (7-0)
4. Issaquah (6-0)
5. Kentwood (6-1)
6. Woodinville (5-0)
7. Kentlake (7-0)
8. Edmonds-Woodway (5-1)
9. Bellarmine Prep (4-1)
10. Federal Way (5-2)
Others receiving votes: Jackson (5-1), South Kitsap (7-0), Monroe (6-1)

Class 3A boys
1. Rainier Beach (4-0)
2. Enumclaw (4-0)
3. Seattle Prep (6-1)
4. Bellevue (7-0)
5. Franklin (3-1)
6. Shorecrest (5-1)
7. O’Dea (5-2)
8. Lakes (5-1)
9. Mount Si (4-1)
10. Chief Sealth (2-1)
Others receiving votes; Shadle Park (5-1), Union (4-2), Mercer Island (3-2), Bainbridge (5-1), Lakeside (2-4), Evergreen (4-1)

Class 3A girls
1. Holy Names (7-1)
2. Kennedy Catholic (4-1)
3. White River (5-1)
4. Bonney Lake (6-1)
5. Lakes (6-1)
6. Mercer Island (4-1)
7. Prarie (6-2)
8. Lakeside (5-2)
9. Cleveland (4-2)
10. Shadle Park (4-2)
Others receiving votes: Bellevue (3-4), Mount Rainier (6-0), Chiawana (4-0), Ferndale (2-1), Meadowdale (4-2), Cleveland (4-2)

MI basketball update with Gavin Cree

Megan Managan — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 22:19:22 +0000

This is a little delayed, but between weird schedules, deadlines and the upcoming holidays (which always seem to send things into chaos) I guess better late than never!

Here are Gavin Cree’s thoughts on the last week of games, including the win over Juanita last Friday and the team’s loss to top ranked O’Dea at Bellevue College.

“I thought we got better this weekend. We defended very well in both contests. Against Juanita, I think our size was a little overwhelming for them to handle. With our length, we are able to contest shots really well – it is hard to shoot over us. We outrebounded them 42-16, which is the way it should be. We’ve still got to take better care of the basketball on the offensive end.”

He said O’Dea was a nice test for the Islanders. O’Dea is currently ranked 6th in the Reporter sportswriter’s basketball poll.

“O’Dea was a nice test for us. If we connect at the free throw line and block out down the stretch I think we win that game. O’Dea is one of the more athletic teams in our district, and we know that we can play with them. Despite the loss, I think our team gained a great deal of confidence from that game. Any time you hold your opponent to 43 points you expect to win the game. Right now our defense is ahead of our offense which isn’t unusual early in the year. We’ve got to develop a chemistry offensively which will come with time. There are a lot of guys out there without much experience, so we will keep getting better.”

The Islanders are 2-2 so far this season and will play Interlake tomorrow night (Friday, Dec. 18) with a 7:30 p.m. tipoff.

Reclassification

Megan Managan — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:21:32 +0000

I had a meeting this morning with MIHS athletic director Craig Olson and we got to chatting about the WIAA’s reclassification information, released a couple of weeks ago.

He said Mercer Island is going to stay in the 3A classification, despite the fact their numbers are closer to a 2A school. Olson said he talked with the various coaches and everyone overwhelmingly said to opt-up into 3A. Part of the decision is around how far the students would have to travel for games if they were 2A, but technically MIHS is apart of the 3A/2A KingCo league – but only compete against 3A schools in playoffs. Another reason; everyone at the school feels that 3A is the right level of competition for the students and it’s where the teams want to be.

Olson said Lake Washington High School will likely be dropping down from 4A to 3A, which means MIHS would compete against as a league opponent and that both Sammamish and Interlake High Schools would be 2A. Currently, Interlake competes at the 2A level.

Another bit of news Olson mentioned is that Eastside Catholic has applied to be a member of the KingCo league. Right now the 2A Crusaders play in the Metro league in district two. EC is making a case for joining KingCo as a 3A school, which would mean opting up a classification size. Olson said their request will be voted on by high school principals in the league in January.

Week 2 basketball poll

Megan Managan — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 23:03:58 +0000

Here’s the Week 2 basketball poll. Records as of Tuesday (12/15) morning. Local schools are in bold.

The Mercer Island girls actually fell a place in the polls, despite the fact they’ve won their last four games in a row. The MI boys have yet to make the list, especially following a close loss to O’Dea over the weekend. A couple wins over solid opponents, which in KingCo is almost everyone, and I would imagine the boys would enter our list.

There were two big changes this week in the boys 4A poll. First the Kentwood boys team fell from third in the 4A poll to eighth. This comes after Josh Smith, counted as one of the best players in the state and UCLA recruit, suffered an injury to his knee. His current status is unknown – he may be undergoing surgery to get it fixed. The second big change was Ferris dropping from fourth to 10th as the team has played only one game this season and lost.

It’s always tough before the teams really get into their season to predict who will be where. As injuries, tough opponents and the season wears on we’ll get a better idea of who will likely end up where. Check back next week for another update!

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

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

Class 3A boys
1. Rainier Beach (2-0)
2. Franklin (2-0)
3. Enumclaw (2-0)
4. Bellevue (4-0)
5. Seattle Prep (5-0)
6. O’Dea (4-1)
7. Mount Si (3-1)
8. Shorecrest (4-0)
9. Lakes (2-1)
10. Chief Sealth (1-0)
Others receiving votes: Meadowdale (3-1), Evergreen (4-0), Union (1-0), Shadle Park (1-0)

Class 3A girls
1. Kennedy Catholic (3-1)
2. Holy Names (4-1)
3. White River (4-0)
4. Bonney Lake (5-0)
5. Prarie (3-2)
6. Lakeside (4-0)
7. Mercer Island (4-1)
8. Bellevue (3-2)
9. Ferndale (2-0)
10. Shadle Park (1-2)
Others receiving votes: Cleveland (3-2), Shorecrest (3-1), Hanford (1-1)

Basketball Week 1 poll

Megan Managan — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 23:11:16 +0000

You might have noticed a story on our Web site yesterday afternoon detailing the first 4A/3A basketball poll done by the Reporter sportswriters. A group of us from around the Reporter newspapers network vote each week on our top 10 picks for the boys and girls teams throughout the state in each classification.

I’ve posted on our site the list for the first week of games. It will be updated each week, probably Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Joel Willits, my counter-part at the Bellevue Reporter posted his thoughts on his blog From the Sidelines.

The Mercer Island girls are currently ranked 6th, the Bellevue boys team was ranked 6th as well. Keep checking back to see how the local teams are doing. Both the Mercer Island boys and girls will be playing at Juanita tomorrow night – the boys start at 6 p.m. and the girls tip off at 7:30 p.m. (note – the times are different than typical regular season games).

Thoughts or comments on the teams listed/voted in this week? Let me know!

MI basketball notes v. Issaquah

Megan Managan — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:45:03 +0000

Here’s some notes on last night’s losses for Mercer Island against 4A Issaquah:

Girls basketball – assistant coach Beth Christofferson

On game standouts: Sarah Taylor is a fighter. She walked away with a mild concussion after an elbow to the head. She’s a battler.

Christofferson said Taylor’s concussion is very mild and she will likely only miss two or three days as a result.

Kate DaPron did not play last night and as a result the girls had some rebounding trouble, but Christofferson said they will be working on it and did come out stronger in the second half of the game.

Boys basketball – head coach Gavin Cree

On the team’s first official game with the 35 second shot clock. The Islanders never ran out of time, but Issaquah did at one point in the game.

We’ve spent a little bit of time with it, but not too much. To be honest, 35 seconds is a long time. We’ve played with it on trips to California many times. The shot clock has it’s biggest impact at the end of the game. In the past, teams have stalled when they have a lead. Now, coaches and players have to take the shot clock into consideration. We’ve talked most about using our defense to run down the clock for the opposing team.

On nerves: I really didn’t feel any nerves. I felt some adrenaline with the band and the fans there. We have such a great high school basketball atmosphere at Mercer Island. We remind our players to be thankful for that. As a player I think you are always anxious to tip-off and get started. I think our guys were a little tight, but I don’t think it was a big factor. As I’ve said before, it’s a long season. One of our focuses this year is moving to the “next play.” We’ve got to learn from this one and flush it away. I think we understand what we need to work on in order to be at our best later in the year.

See next week’s print edition for a full review of the game against Issaquah.

Sheryl Swoopes joins MIHS girls basketball coaching roster

Megan Managan — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:52:03 +0000

Sheryl Swoopes, a player for the Seattle Storm WNBA team, will be assisting with coaching duties during the current 2009-2010 Mercer Island High School girls basketball season.
Swoopes, who attended Texas Tech, has played basketball professionally for 11 years, joining the Storm in 2008 as a guard. She won an NCAA woman’s basketball championship in 1993 with the Texas Tech Lady Raiders, and has three Olympic gold medals in basketball from the 1996, 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games.
She joined the WNBA in it’s first season, playing with the Houston Comets, and remained with the Comets until 2007. She has been apart of four WNBA champion teams and earned the WNBA MVP award three times in her career.
This season at Mercer Island Swoopes will be taking on some of the sideline coaching duties during the Islanders games while MIHS girls head coach Jamie Prescott is on maternity leave.
Assistant coach Beth Christofferson said Monday afternoon prior to practice that Swoopes has been great, really helping the girls and that she just wants to make the team better.
See this week’s issue of the Reporter for the MIHS winter sports previews and watch for continued coverage of the girls basketball team, as well as all other sports on Mercer Island!

Celebrating the MLS Cup in Seattle – thoughts from the game

Megan Managan — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 21:43:40 +0000

There were a lot of firsts in and around Qwest Field this past Sunday.
For the first time in recent years Seattle participated in the grand finale of America’s professional soccer. In honor of the newly beloved Sounders, Seattle fans didn’t disappoint, welcoming with open arms celebrities of the world’s game.
While Sounders fans and soccer lover alike packed the stands to cheer for two teams with almost nothing connecting them to the Pacific Northwest, it also became a game of firsts, as well as an underdog champion.
Sitting upstairs watching the field and stands fill up before the match began, I was impressed with not only the dedication of fans rooting for both LA and Salt Lake, but also the amount of Sounders green I saw. Obviously, this is a sport with fans that refuse to quit.

To be perfectly honest the first half of the game, despite all the pageantry and build up earlier in the week, was a bit dull. Sure, David Beckham ran around the field and took a few corners, but Landon Donovan, heralded as one of America’s best soccer players, hardly touched the ball in the first 40 minutes.
Three days earlier both Donovan and Beckham said during their press conference they wanted it to be an exciting game for the fans. It took a while for that to happen, but then once the tide changed, the pressure was obviously on, finally giving those fans in the stands what Beckham and Donovan had hoped for.
Early on it looked as if Real Salt Lake was going to be facing a big deficit against the LA Galaxy after Javier Morales, one of the RSL’s big playmakers, went down following a scuffle on the field. He came off the field in the 22nd minute of the game, due to what was later called a left knee sprain.
Whether it was because Morales was out, or the timing was right or perhaps more likely a combination of all of the above, LA got their chance in the 41st minute of the Cup match after Beckham scurried down field, found Donovan in the middle who then passed to LA forward Mike Magee to take the 1-0 lead.
The halftime break continued the monotony of the game, despite the uptick after LA’s goal, with the Sounder’s Freddie Montero facing off against an unknown opponent in Guitar Hero, attempting to get the crowd excited about their rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Beat It”. While they both obviously practiced their guitar skills, it was no NFL halftime show.
Thankfully the teams quickly reassembled on the pitch for their second half warm-ups. For as boring as the first half may have been, despite the fact that both teams were playing some excellent soccer, the second half was like watching an entirely different game. Just a few minutes into the deciding half LA goalie Donovan Ricketts slid toward Salt Lake’s Robbie Findley who was looking for a shot on goal at the same time an LA defender also came sliding into the box, where all three collided. Findley and the LA defender came away quickly, but Ricketts stayed down, as the medics rushed onto the field for the second time during the game. After what was announced later as a seven minute delay of game time, Ricketts reestablished his position between the goal posts, but it didn’t last for long. Minutes later, after the teams started trading fouls, Ricketts left the game, the first time in MLS Cup history a goalie has come out of the game. Later, in the press box, we were told he was suffering from a right hand contusion. Basically the back of his hand was so swollen he had to come out to get medical attention and LA sent in his backup Josh Saunders of Grant’s Pass, Ore. to fill the void.
Shortly before Ricketts leaving the game Salt Lake tied the score, after Findley found a hole and knocked the ball in for a 1-1 tie. Then, with Ricketts out, things were looking a little less likely for LA. The game headed into a 30 minute overtime period, and after the score remained tied headed into penalty kicks.
The LA team, who won MLS Cup’s in 2002 and 2005, has played in five Cup finals and each time has gone into an overtime situation. In total the MLS Cup has seen six OT’s in it’s history, making LA one team which arguably needs to learn to finish on the field.
After the overtime the game headed into the penalty kick portion of the match to decide the winner of this year’s Cup. The only other time the championship of American soccer was decided in this fashion was the 2006 Cup where Houston outlasted New England for the title.
The firsts of the ‘09 Cup continued in the PK portion of the evening when Donovan missed his shot, not that it was blocked, just flat out shot the ball over the top of the goal. It was the first time during competition he’d just plain missed the goal.
In the end Real Salt Lake came in as underdogs, but left Qwest Field with the Tiffany&Co. trophy in hand. What started as just another soccer game, with international players and some hype, ended in an exciting, down-to-the-wire event and it’s hard to imagine the MLS saying no to another playoff visit to Seattle in the future.

Beckham/Donovan MLS press conference

Megan Managan — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 01:45:54 +0000

I had the amazing opportunity this afternoon to go to the LA Galaxy press conference following their team practice at Qwest Field after both Real Salt Lake and LA arrived in town yesterday for the MLS Cup on Sunday.
Galaxy team members, Landon Donovan, recently named the league’s MVP, and soccer legend David Beckham were on hand to answer press questions about Sunday’s match-up, the league, what Seattle has meant to the sport and their careers in general.
Beckham, who seemed very laid back, although sporting a bit of a cough, said playing this season in the MLS has been a great experience, and later on in the press conference said after England makes a run in the upcoming World Cup he plans to be back next season.
“I think it’s been a great experience for myself and for the whole team this season. You know, always helps when you have a certain amount of success, and we’ve had that so far,” said Beckham. “But we’re not happy. We still want to win this game on Sunday. Hopefully we will. We deserve to be here. Real Salt Lake deserves to be here. Two good teams with good players in it. It’s gonna be a good game. I hope it’s an entertaining game for the fans.”
Donovan said he was very excited for Sunday and that he wants to make sure the team knows this opportunity, while fantastic, is rare.

“I think the message that we want to remember and get across to all our guys is that these opportunities are rare,” said Donovan. “You want to take advantage of it. I don’t think anyone’s gonna remember in a few years if we got to the final and lost. They’ll remember if we won. We want to take hold of this and grab it and win it.”
Overall Donovan said this season, getting to the finals, has meant more to him than any other he has played in.
“For me, personally, this has been more rewarding than any other other trips to this point in the season. It’s been challenging. It’s been difficult for a few years here. To put everything you have into something and then to be successful is very rewarding. I think we’ve all done that as a team.”
For Beckham as well, playing for the Cup is meaningful, for him and the team as a whole.
“These occasions don’t come everyday year, so you have to make sure you enjoy them. We’ve got a lot of young guys in our team that are excited, but we need to stay focused. That’s the biggest thing for us,” he said. “But, of course, you play in a Cup final, it’s exciting, the whole experience. You have to enjoy it, because the day goes past so quickly. So you have to enjoy the moment.”
Beckham, who has said in the past when he retires he would be interested in being a big part of the MLS in some way, whether it’s owning a team or in some other form, echoed that statement.
“I love the game, so I want to be involved in the game in some way when I finish. Owning a franchise is something that’s definitely possible and something that I’m really thinking about, and I think will happen eventually,” he said. “But, you know, I’ve always said since I cam over here that I want to be an ambassador of the game and an ambassador of the MLS and to be involved in making this sport, which is the No. 1 sport everywhere else in the world apart from the U.S.”
Friday afternoon was actually Beckham’s first practice because of a bone bruise to his foot that has been plaguing him this season. He said it continues to be an issue, but it’s part of the game.
“It’s been frustrating, but I’m sure it’ll be find for Sunday. Definitely be fine for Sunday. It’s one of those things you just have to get through. After five, 10 minutes of the game I’m sure I’ll forget all about it.”

I’ll post more of their thoughts from the press conference, as well as a post Cup piece, which I’ll be attending Sunday evening, next week.

Hydro drivers in Qatar

Megan Managan — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:07:01 +0000

As I reported on a couple of weeks ago a group of 10 hydro drivers and their teams (many of which are from Washington, like Dr. Ken Muscatel). Everyone safely made the trip earlier this week to the Middle East and are now preparing for the qualifying races beginning Thursday. Here’s a little snippet of what the drivers are doing in some of their down time. Thanks to Owen Blauman for getting me on the mailing list!

DOHA, Qatar – Brian Perkins (Black Diamond, Wash.) driver of the U-48 Go Fast Turn Left Unlimited Hydroplane turned in his race boat seat for a saddle and girth on a camel at a camel race track north of Doha, Qatar. After his laps as a gentleman jockey Perkins said he enjoys being one of the 10 hydroplane drivers racing in the Oryx Cup UIM World Championship Nov 19-21.

“When I had the opportunity to get on one, I was surprised as to how high I was once they stood up,” Perkins said of the camel. “I must have been ten feet in the air.”

Hejen Racing Committee hosted the unlimited drivers, their families, race officials and race crews.

Qualifying for the Oryx Cup in the Middle East begins Thursday on the Arabian Sea.

Brian Perkins, one of the hydro drivers competing this weekend in Doha, Qatar, took a break from the water to give camel racing a try. Photo by Bill Osborne/ABRA.

MLS Cup

Megan Managan — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 21:58:47 +0000

I attended the MIHS girls soccer team’s first state game this season last night and it got me thinking about soccer in the U.S. and world, especially with the MLS Cup coming to town on Nov. 22. To me, soccer has always a big deal, although not quiet as big as it is anywhere else in the world, I’ll admit. As a longtime former player it’s easy to understand the game, the plays and strategies coaches have heading into the high school state tournament.

This year soccer in Seattle took to a new level when the Sounders returned for their first season in the MLS. The league, which for a time has struggled, is finally starting to find a groove and locally a huge fan base. After living in London during the 2006 World Cup and the chaos that took place whenver England took to the field it’s safe to say the atmosphere in Seattle is similar, although definitely down a couple of notches (we do still have American football to root for after all).

I’ll be heading to the MLS Cup next weekend to take it all in, my second visit this season to Qwest Field for soccer (How could I not attend the Sounders v. Chelsea game?). Originally, though, I figured it was a bit of a long shot, I had hoped Seattle would be playing for the Cup at home. Imagine the frivolity that would have ensued, but alas, the dream was shattered by a strong Houston squad on the pitch.

Now, with the chance to possibly interview players during the Cup courtesy my newly minted MLS Cup press credentials I’m pulling for the Galaxy, if ony for the sole purpose to see David Beckham up close. Which brings me to my point – who do you want to see play in Seattle on Nov. 22 and are you going to the game?

No matter who it is, the stands are garaunteed to be packed and it should make for some amazing soccer.

3A state tournament update

Megan Managan — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:41:44 +0000

The march to state continues this week and next for many teams in the area. Many of Mercer Island’s fall sports are finished (boys golf, volleyball, football, water polo, cross country), but a couple will continue through this weekend, and depending on the success they have, possibly next weekend.

The MIHS girls volleyball team fell to Mount Si during the district tournament last weekend, but because state volleyball takes place this weekend in Kennewick, hears a quick look at how the coaches association ranked the top 8 3A teams.

Volleyball Coaches Association Class 3A rankings

1. Camas 2. Seattle Prep 3. Mount Spokane 4. Capital (Olympia) 5. Timberline (Lacey) 6. Bishop Blanchet (Seattle) 7. Lakes (Lakewood) 8. West Valley (Yakima)

The Islanders soccer team is still alive in the hunt for some state hardware. Last night the team took down Auburn Mountainview in the first round. They next play Glacier Peak, a state favorite this season. To watch the complete 3A girls soccer bracket visit the WIAA’s bracket or the WIAA state soccer tournament page.

In Northwest swimming action the Mercer Island girls team heads to Federal Way this weekend for the state tournament. Last year the girls finished third overall, and after sweeping KingCo and Districts this year it’s anyones guess how high the team could finish. The prelims begin Friday for the 3A event with the finals on Saturday. To get more info on the state swimming schedule check out the WIAA’s state swimming page.

Cross country rankings

Megan Managan — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:42:47 +0000

The most recent high school cross country coaches rankings have come out, days ahead of the state meet this weekend in Pasco.
The Mercer Island boys qualified for the state contest, and have been ranked No. 9 in the state. This is a step up for the team after being ranked No. 10 last week. The girls dropped out of the ranking after not qualifying for the state meet as a team. Last week they were ranked No. 6.

Here’s the complete 3A boys ranking: 1. North Central (Spokane); 2. Bishop Blanchet (Seattle); 3. Belelvue; 4. Peninsula (Gig Harbor); 5. Mount Spokane; 6. Seattle Prep; 7. Lindbergh (Renton); 8. Columbia River (Vancouver); 9. Mercer Island; 10. Everett

See next week’s issue for a recap of the state meet with local results.

KingCo swim out-takes

Megan Managan — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 21:56:02 +0000

I chatted with MIHS girls swim coach Chauntelle Johnson this morning just ahead of our deadline to get some of her thoughts on Saturday’s win for the team. The team won the competition and heads into the district meet on Saturday evening with 22 girls competing. Johnson said more than that qualified, but schools are allowed to take a maximum of four swimmers perevent, and if the swimmer has already qualifed for state they have to swim at districts.

Overall she said it was a great meet and that she is looking forward to seeing some of the other local schools MI doesn’t usually compete against at districts before the state meet.

Individually Johnson said Danielle Deiparine had a great 200 freestyle event and a great weekend overall. She finished seventh overall with a time of 2:03.36. Johnson also talked about Kira Godfred, the younger sister of Rachel Godfred, an MIHS grad with a lot of swimmer medals and records attached to her name at Mary Wayte. Kira Godfred, a freshman, finished fifth in the 200 freestyle and took 10th in the 100 freestyle event.

“She had a great weekend,” said Johnson. Others earning a nod for their performances from the coach were Vee Vee Wang and Alyssa Hatsukami for their finishes in the 500 freestyle.

“They both did very, very well,” said Johnson.

The district meet begins on Friday, Nov. 6 at Mary Wayte Pool with the prelims starting at 4:30 p.m. The finals will take place the next day starting at 5:30 p.m. Doors will open at 3:15 p.m. For a full list of last week’s swim results see my story MIHS girls swim and dive captures KingCo title.

Volleyball out-takes

Megan Managan — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:05:55 +0000

The MIHS girls volleyball team will start the Sea-King district on Thursday night, after a big upset in the KingCo championship tournament game last weekend to knock Mount Si out of the top spot.

Before the girls went to KingCo they played their final two games of the regular season and due to space limitations I wasn’t able to fit all the info in so here’s a quick recap of those games.

In the week leading up to the tournament the Islanders swept their regular season opponents, beating Sammamish and Interlake.
Last Tuesday night the Islanders played for the last time this season in their home gym, beating Sammamish in three games. The final scores were 25-15, 25-16 and 25-12 over the Totems.
During the match Ariel Dewey posted 24 assists while senior Sabrina Rasmussen, playing for the last time at the MIHS gym had six kills and six aces against the Totems. Kaylia Balinbin had nine kills, Krinstine Fu, making her first start this season, had four aces, while Alisa Owens had six aces and Lorial Yeadon had five kills. The Islanders were strong across the floor, with big net blocks during all three games from Erin McKiernan and freshman Madelyn Bloom.
Islander head coach Susan Rindlaub said following Tuesday’s win that the team is looking great, finally recovered from injuries and sickness which has plagued them all season long.
Against Sammamish the Islanders had their strongest serving game, with very few service errors, something they’ve worked at all season, Rindlaub said.
Last Wednesday the team traveled to take on the Interlake Saints in the last regular season game this year. The Islanders won in three games with final scores of 25-11, 30-28 and 25-23.
Dewey posted 35 assists for her teammate during the game and had five aces overall. Balinbin had 15 kills, while McKiernan had seven kills and Yeadon posted six play ending spikes over the net.
Rindlaub said the team is hopeful they will be facing off against Mount Si in the KingCo championship game, but that they have several games to play through before that happens.

Following the Sammamish game Rindlaub said she was proud of the team and had seen so much improvement over the course of the season.
“We have improved so much and we served better than we ever have tonight (against Sammamish). I think we had 20 aces as a team and only three service errors the whole match,” she said.
Heading into KingCo the first year head coach said she was fully confident the team had enough conditioning and practice to handle the playing load, which featured up to six games in one week, including the KingCo tournament.
Before the Islanders knew they would take on Mount Si in the finals, Rindlaub said she was hopefully that would be the outcome, wanting one more chance at the Wildcats team.
“The third time’s the charm, we’re hoping with them,” said Rindlaub and in fact it was as the Islanders cruised to win in five games.
After Sammamish, which happened to be senior night, a chance for the coach and the team to honor those players in their final year.
“They are all incredibly selfless people and players. They care so much about the team and the players. None of them play volleyball for the glory, they are here because they love the sport and are such good role models for all the kids,” said Rindlaub.

The team will take on the winner of the Metro No. 7/Metro No. 4 game which is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 5 at 5:30 p.m. The Islanders will start their district match at 7:30 p.m. that same night. If the team wins they will play at 11 a.m. on Saturday morning at Sammamish High School in the District semi-finals. If they lose the Islanders will move into the consolation bracket and play at 1 p.m. on Saturday.

Cross country rankings

Megan Managan — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:56:47 +0000

Below is the top 10 3A cross country teams as voted on by the Cross Country Coaches Association. The Mercer Island girls team has held onto the No. 6 spot for several weeks and the boys team makes their first appearance in the rankings at No. 10.

Boys 3A — 1, North Central (Spokane); 2, Bellevue; 3, Mount Spokane; 4, Peninsula (Gig Harbor); 5, North Kitsap (Poulsbo); 6, Bishop Blanchet (Seattle); 7, Seattle Prep; 8, Lindbergh (Renton); 9, Columbia River (Vancouver); 10, Mercer Island

Girls 3A — 1, Glacier Peak (Snohomish); 2, Shadle Park (Spokane); 3, Mount Spokane; 4, North Kitsap (Poulsbo); 5, Columbia River (Vancouver); 6, Mercer Island; 7, Capital (Olympia); 8, Seattle Prep; 9, Bellevue; 10, Enumclaw

The teams will be running tomorrow afternoon in the Sea-King District meet at Lake Sammamish State Park in Issaquah. The girls race will kick the afternoon off beginning at 2:30 p.m. while the boys event will follow at 3:15.

On the line is a chance to qualify for the state meet in Pasco on Nov. 7. In the boys race the KingCo league is alloted four team qualifications and 20 individuals, which includes any runner who finishes in the top 30 overall, but whose team does not qualify. The KingCo girls have five team allocations and places for 25 individual runners. The Mercer Island girls are looking to repeat their state championship from last season.

Football thoughts from Friday

Megan Managan — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 22:54:17 +0000

Just chatted with Mercer Island football coach Brett Ogata about last Friday’s win over Ingraham in the pouring rain. The Islanders earned their second win of the season 45-0 (click here for a full recap of the game).

Overall, he said it came down to the fact the team believed in itself.

“The kids played with a lot of confidence,” Ogata said. He said the defensive line had their best game of the season, keeping Ingraham from scoring all night. Ogata also said despite lots injuries on offensive line (and really just the team as a whole) the guys stepped up and made it happen.

This week the Islanders head to Sammamish for a KingCo basement showdown. Mercer Island football currently sits in the sixth spot in the KingCo league with a 0-4, 2-5 record while the Totems are 0-5, 1-6 this season. But Ogata said rather than focusing on Sammamish, Mercer Island is focused on what they need to do, as has been the trend all season.

“Really it’s about what we need to do to get better each week,” he said. “We worry about Mercer Island, not the other team and that’s how we’ll get to the highest potential for us.”

One thing this rebuilding year has shown, especially younger players, is that opportunities abound. The team has battled injuries and sickness throughout the season, along with many of the other teams at the school. But it’s been specifically hard on football as Ogata said the team lost “crucial players” to season-ending injuries.

“We have had a ton of them,” Ogata said of injuries to players. “A lot of younger players are hurt too, but the majority of the season ending injuries have been seniors.” Of that group of six who now find themselves stuck on the sidelines four are seniors, a junior and a sophomore.

After Sammamish on Friday night the Islanders will host Juanita in the last home game of the regular season. Ogata said mathematically the team is not slated to make the playoffs. He said if they had beat Mount Si there was a chance, but now it looks a lot less likely. After the Juanita game on Oct. 30, the Islanders will play a crossover game with one of the Metro 3A teams. Who exactly it will be depends partially on how the team plays this weekend and how the Metro league shakes out.

Ogata said the most likely scenarios for the crossover game are if the Islanders beat Sammamish, most likely they will play their last game away against the Metro #8 team OR if the Islanders lose Friday night to the Totem they would host the Metro #9 team on Nov. 6.

It all just depends on the numbers.

Football predictions

Megan Managan — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 22:55:48 +0000

Bellevue and Issaquah/Sammamish Reporter sports writers Joel Willits and Kevin Endejan have been posting their predictions for football games all season. Check out how they think the Islanders are going to do tonight against Ingraham (hint: perhaps the Islanders will see their first league win?). Check out what they have to say and then vote on who you think is going to take the win.

The Islanders will head to winless Sammamish next week before returning home for the final home game of the season against Juanita on Oct. 30 (I am so hoping for some crowd costumes here…maybe someone should have a contest?).

A quick look at Mercer Island in the KingCo 3A standings

Megan Managan — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 19:33:20 +0000

Next week marks the last week of the regular season for many of Mercer Island’s fall sports. For some the post season hunt has already begun, like cross country and boys golf.
The cross country teams will head to Issaquah for the KingCo league meet on Thursday afternoon and the boys golf team is looking to score a win at the district tournament to complete their season in undefeated fashion. Swimming is also undefeated, looking to take down Bothell this afternoon before Bainbridge on Tuesday. The KingCo Championships will be held Thursday, Oct. 29 at the King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way. The boys tennis team also remains undefeated this season, putting an 8-0 dent on the season thus far.
As the season winds down and the wins become so much more important for playoff potential here is a quick look at where the KingCo 3A league is in volleyball, girls soccer and football.

Volleyball
Mount Si     9-0 (10-1)
Mercer Island 7-2 (8-4)
Interlake    4-4 (6-5)
Juanita    4 -5 (4-7)
Bellevue    3-5 (3-7)
Liberty    3-5 (5-6)
Sammamish    0-9

Girls soccer
Mercer Island 8-1-0 (10-2-1)
Sammamish    4-2-2 (5-3-3)
Mount Si    3-3-3 (4-6-3)
Juanita    3-3-2 (3-3-6)
Liberty    2-2-4 (2-6-4)
Bellevue    2-5-1 (5-6-1)
Interlake    1-7-0 (4-8-0)

Football
Bellevue     3-0 (4-2)
Liberty    3-0 (6-0)
Interlake    3-1 (5-1)
Juanita    2-1 (5-1)
Mount Si    1-2 (3-3)
Mercer Island 0-4 (1-5)
Sammamish    0-4 (1-5)

In other news, in the Cross Country Coaches Association weekly team rankings the Mercer Island girls team was ranked sixth overall. Glacier Peak of Snohomish was first, Shadle Park of Spokane second, Mount Spokane third, North Kitsap fourth, Columbia River of Vancouver, fifth, Capital of Olympica seventh, Seattle Prep eighth, Bellevue ninth and Enumclaw 10th.

Islanders swim team update

Megan Managan — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 21:11:45 +0000

Here is a more cohesive listing of recent swimming results. Due to space in the print edition this week the full results for recent matches could not be included. The Islanders swim and dive team is still undefeated in their season this fall, with several swimmers already earning places at the state meet.
Below are results for the last week’s swim meets, including this weekend’s non league meeting between Mercer Island and Kentwood. An asterisk denotes a swimmer qualifying for the state meet.

Mercer Island 130, Woodinville 56
200 medley relay — Mercer Island (Sara Gluck, Alyssa Hatsukami, Danielle Deiparine, Christina Williamson) 2:04.61
200 free — Madeline Larkin, MI, 2:09.12
200 IM — Kira Godfred, MI, 2:23.28
50 free — Stephanie Hammond, MI, 26.35.
Diving — Meggie Lindsey, MI, 159.25
100 fly — Danielle Deiparine, MI, 1:04.50
100 free — Stephanie Hammond, MI, 58.62
500 free — Kira Godfred, MI, 5:48.54
200 free relay — Mercer Island (Emma Nelson, Laura Remy, Sara Gluck, Danielle Deiparine) 1:52.03
100 back — Vee Vee Wang, MI, 1:09.88
400 free relay — Mercer Island (Christina Williamson, Kira Godfred, Madeleine Chandless, Stephanie Hammond) 3:59.76

Mercer Island 104, Inglemoor 82
200 free — Grace Wold, MI, 31.17*
500 free — Grace Wold, MI, 5:26.15*
100 back — Danielle Deiparine, MI, 1:06.73
100 breast — Jennifer Pak, MI, 1:12.27*
400 free relay — Mercer Island (Danielle Deiparine, Stephanie Hammond, Kristin Hoffman, Grace Wold) 3:56.52

Mercer Island 118, Kentwood 52
200 medley relay — Mercer Island (Grace Wold, Danielle Deiparine, Madeleine Chandless, Jennifer Pak) 1:54.67*
200 free — Jennifer Pak, MI, 1:57.77*
200 IM — Grace Wold, MI, 2:14.14*
500 free — Madeleine Chandless, MI, 5:34.07
200 free relay — Mercer Island (Stephanie Hammond, Christina Williamson, Masami Cookson, Pak) 1:46.12
100 back — 1, Grace Wold, MI, 1:00.42*; 2, Kira Godfred, MI, 1:03.90*
100 breast — Danielle Deiparine, MI, 1:11.92*
400 free relay — Mercer Island (Jennifer Pak, Stephanie Hammond, Madeline Chandless, Grace Wold) 3:53.99*

Quick look at high school KingCo 3A standings

Megan Managan — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 22:07:43 +0000

I had an e-mail from a reader last night asking about high school standings so I thought I’d give a little update as to where teams sit right now in the KingCo 3A league.
Next week things really kick off before the post season rush begins, so keep checking back for updated information that may not make the print edition.
Also, I wanted to note that the Mercer Island boy’s golf team is going to be playing for the KingCo title against Woodinville on Monday afternoon (beginning at 4 p.m.) at the Echo Woods golf course in Woodinville. Head coach Tyson Peters has been talking about this match up all season long, and it promises to be a good test of the Islanders’ talent.

Here are the standings for the KingCo 3A league as of the afternoon of Thursday, Oct. 1

Football
1. Interlake 2-0 (5-0)
2. Liberty 2-0 (4-0)
3. Juanita 1-0 (4-0)
4. Bellevue 1-0 (2-2)
5. Mercer Island 0-2 (1-3)
Mount Si 0-2 (1-3)
Sammamish 0-2 (1-3)

Volleyball
1. Mount Si 5-0 (6-1)
2. Mercer Island 3-1 (4-3)
3. Liberty 2-2 (4-3)
4. Juanita 2-2 (2-4)
Bellevue 2-2 (2-4)
5. Interlake 1-3 (2-4)
6. Sammamish 0-5 (0-7)

Girl’s Soccer
1. Mercer Island 4-0 (6-1)
2. Sammamish 2-1-1 (3-2-2)
3. Mount Si 1-1-2 (2-4-2)
4. Juanita 1-1-1 (1-1-5)
5. Bellevue 1-2 (4-3)
6. Liberty 0-1-2 (0-4-2)
7. Interlake 0-3 (2-4)

The boy’s golf team is undefeated in KingCo matches at 5-0, currently challenging for the KingCo title and the girl’s swimming team is also undefeated at 5-0, with several members of the swim team already qualified for appearances at the state meet this fall.

Paddling around the Rock

Megan Managan — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 21:54:09 +0000

It wasn't just the kids or their parents out giving it a try, sometimes they both did at once. Megan Managan/Mercer Island Reporter

Sunday was the first ever Round the Rock paddle race for stand up paddle surfers, a sport grabbing hold in our area. I had the chance a couple of weeks before to visit with the co-organizers, Jeff Underwood and Dan Eberhardt to learn about the sport and the race in general. Their enthusiasm for not only the race, but also the sport was contagious and I just had to check it out.

It was billed as the largest SUP event north of southern California, and Jeff and Dan didn’t disappoint. I headed out on Sunday afternoon, a perfect day to hang out at Luther Burbank Park, and found myself feeling like I was at a California beach event, rather than in Western Washington. Paddle surfers of all ages skimmed the waters just off shore, as people milled around waiting for the first full course racers to make their appearance at the finish line. Local surf shops and industry booths were set up so people could learn about the sport, where to get boards and even give the paddle surfing boards a try, something I took advantage of.

When I had spoken with them earlier both Jeff and Dan said it was easy to learn to paddle surf, but having never done anything except bogey board occasionally I was a little skeptical. I’m happy to report, however, after a quick explanation from one of the ladies manning the Perfect Way Surf Shop (located in Kirkland) booth I was kneeling on a demo board and before I knew it, stand up paddle surfing on Lake Washington!

The 13 mile race around Mercer Island had 73 entries, while the short sprint race later in the afternoon of 2.5 miles had 57 people sign up that day to take part. According to Dan contestants ranged in age from 9 to 61-years-old.
Shortly after I arrived the first racer headed in, posting an unbelievable finish of 2 hours and 35 minutes. Originally, Dan and Jeff told me they expected the racers to finish in about three hours.

Beau Whitehead was the winner of the race. He finished the 13 mile course in 2:35 in the unlimited class.

Beau Whitehead, 40, of Bellingham, Wash. paddling for the Urban Surf Shop team claimed the victory in the unlimited class, while Dan Eberhardt, of Manhattan Beach, Calif., came in second with a 2:56 finish time in the 14 feet class, paddling with the Riviera Paddle Surf team. Rod Parmeter of Hood River, Ore. was third overall with a time of 3:04 in the 14 feet class.

On the women’s side of the race Heather Nelson finished first with a time of 3:12 in the 14 feet class. Cindy Hales, of Seattle, paddling for Cheka Looka finished in 3:49, in the 12.6 feet class and Jean Anne Dobrowolski, also of Seattle, was third at 4:53.

In paddle surfing the unlimited division means there is no restriction on the board length, and fins, rudder and foils are allowed on the boards. In the SUP 14 foot class the maximum length for boards is 14 feet, fins must be fixed in place, and foils and rudders are not allowed. The same rules apply to the SUP 12.6 foot class, expect the maximum length is 12 1/2 feet.

Paddlers of all experience levels were out on Sunday, during the race.

Dan said the temperature and skies were perfect for a race, but that it was a bit windy out on the course.
“The entire west end of Mercer Island had some serious head wind,” he said. That section represented about 60 percent of the overall course. The Coast Guard clocked the wind at a steady 18 to 20 miles per hour, according to Dan, including gusts up to 30 mph.
“Making it around the north end of Luther Burbank had a great tail wind – for good speed!” said Dan.

Overall, the event was definitely a success. Dan did say next year they plan to have a full automated timing system for results. This year paddlers finished after giving their number to an appointed boarder who sat on a board by a buoy just off the park’s beach.

Congrats to all the finishers!

Surf shops from the area were on hand to showcase their services, as well as to discuss the different types of boards and equipment paddle surfers use.

2010 Olympics – Ready or not here they come

Megan Managan — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 19:59:09 +0000

It is almost time. I’ve been waiting for probably three solid years for the months to slowly dwindle until the magic could begin. Now only five months away (which I know is still a long time, but after two years come on!) coverage of the Winter Olympics in Whistler and Vancouver, British Columbia is getting ready to explode.

Between the circus of just trying to get tickets to specific events, to figuring how whether or not to stay in B.C. or make it a day trip and trying to determine how and when to make the border crossing, the logistics for a simple trip has, at many points, felt overwhelming; and I know I’m not alone.

I’ve had my tickets to a single hockey game since they were first offered to U.S. citizens. As a self-described sports nut who loves hockey and the Olympics it was a no-brainer. I spent the Beijing Olympics watching Michael Phelps crush the medal record with my extended family following my cousin’s wedding – those are the moments I’ll remember, where I was and who I watched it with. That is what makes the every two year global spectacle what it is.

Shortly after the International Olympic Committee announced Whistler as the winning bid for 2010 I knew I wanted to go. When would I ever be this close to the Games again? Mostly likely never, unless Seattle or Portland makes a bid, at which point would push them, at the very earliest, to a 2016 or 2020 bid, depending on which type of games they wanted to pursue – summer or winter. But now I’m getting off topic – Whistler, February – it’s going to be a big deal.

What I, and the Reporter, really want to know, is who else out there on the Island is making a Games pilgrimage? Local opinions seem to vary on whether it’s worth the hassle to get there for a single event or for multiple. Others are about as excited as you can get, snatching up tickets to as many events as possible to fully revel in the Olympics event. I have friends trekking home from Arizona to take in the sights and visit with family over the course of those weeks.

Before the lights dim during the Opening Ceremonies we want to hear your stories, from deciding what events to attend, to booking tickets, to getting a hotel and how you decided the best way to get there for the day or week.

Send your thoughts, stories and comments to mmanagan@mi-reporter.com. Thanks in advance!

Football stats vs. Liberty

Megan Managan — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:54:52 +0000

I wasn’t able to get these stats before the paper was finished this week, so here’s an update with more specifics from the Islander’s loss last Thursday. This week they are preparing to face off against Interlake at home. Kick off is scheduled at 7 p.m.
Thursday’s final score was 51-13, with sophomore quarterback Jeff Lindquist making a 2-yard sprint in the second quarter, after the Islanders gave up 23 unanswered points in the first 12 minutes. Kicker Alex Wood made a solid kick to give Mercer Island 7 points, against Liberty’s 14 in the second quarter. Wood punted for 112-yards during four kicks for the team.
The next Mercer Island end zone appearance wasn’t until the third quarter when senior captain Kurtis Rosengreen made an 81-yard trip down the side of the field.
Throughout the night the Islanders had 50 passing yards overall and 156 rushing yards during the loss. The team had two penalties resulting in 10 yards.
Three Islanders were responsible for seven solo tackles during the game, David Kuhn, Trevor Reed and Greg Williams each also assisted on a tackle. Junior Ben Emanuels had six solo tackles and three assists. Sophomore Phil Frazier sacked Liberty’s quarterback resulting in a Patriots loss of 6-yards.
Currently, the Islanders are 1-2 in the season and 0-1 in the league. As of Tuesday morning the team sits in fifth place in the KingCo league. Interlake is at the top of the league with a 4-0 non-league record, after beating Hazen and Yelm in non-league games. The team also picked up an easy win after Ingraham forfeited the first game of the season. Interlake won their first league game of the season with a 50-28 win over Mount Si.

Football tonight – MI at Liberty

Megan Managan — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 22:07:17 +0000

Tonight the Islanders are traveling to Liberty High School in their first league showdown of the season. The Thursday night game, played prior to the Jewish holiday Rosh Hashanah, which begins tomorrow, features a strong Liberty quarterback up against the young Mercer Island team. Liberty is 2-0 heading into tonight’s game and MI sits at 1-1 in the season.
Last week, following the Islanders loss to Newport, head coach Brett Ogata said in preparation for the Liberty game the team would just have to work on being better all around.
“They (Liberty) are a heck of a team and I know they are looking out for us, so we just have to get better,” Ogata said.
Kick off is 7 p.m. at Liberty High School Stadium in Renton.

MI sports blog now online

Megan Managan — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 21:41:56 +0000

Welcome to From the Goal Line – a sports blog dedicated to all sports and recreation on Mercer Island, and likely, anything else sports related grabbing my attention. I’ll be adding extras from stories and other information as it comes my way. Feel free to send me ideas, ask me questions and let me know what is going on!

You can also see what’s going on around MI via my Twitter @MIRsports and at www.mi-reporter.com. Feel free to get in touch anytime at mmanagan@mi-reporter.com