Division 1 Preseason Polls;
In the Big Sky Conference, Montana has been selected as clear #1 and Portland State as #2, that makes this BYU vs PSU game on November 14th very interesting. Click link and read more.
The Mountain West Conference thinks Utah will go back to back in the preseason coaches poll, BYU (Jazmine Foreman) pick 5th.
PAC 10 goes with the usual suspects to lead the league, Stanford, Calif., and Arizona State with USC (Ashley Corral) pick to come in forth
West Coast Conference (WCC) selects Gonzaga as the preseason favorite; Kiva Herman and USD are chosen 3rd, and St. Mary's with (Ashlee Smith) are pick 4th
Western Athletic Conference (WAC) Boise State, Fresno State, & Utah State (Nicole Johnson) receive first place votes
Division 2 preseason polls, next week.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Keeping up with local colleges also
In an attempt to bring you the best in girl's basketball in the area. We will make an attempt to keep you up on what's happening with collegiate conferences in the area that may have some of our local girls playing ball.
From NCAA Division 1 we'll include - the Big Sky Conference, The Mountain West, PAC 10, Western Athletic Conference (WAC), and the West Coast Conference (WCC), from NCAA Division 2 - The Great Northwest Athletic Conference, The Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC), and the Summit League. The NAIA includes the Cascade Collegiate Conference, and the Frontier Conference, we'll also try to keep up with the NWAACC which is the community colleges conference and the NCAA Division 3 information.
As you can see there's a lot of information to try and pass along, the focus will remain on the local high school news, scores and stories. I hope you've enjoyed this first month with us and we will continue to provide you with news and information as we get it.
Again my theme; "It takes a village to raise a child" your help in providing news stories and information is helpful. Contact us at lanpdx2003@yahoo.com
From NCAA Division 1 we'll include - the Big Sky Conference, The Mountain West, PAC 10, Western Athletic Conference (WAC), and the West Coast Conference (WCC), from NCAA Division 2 - The Great Northwest Athletic Conference, The Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC), and the Summit League. The NAIA includes the Cascade Collegiate Conference, and the Frontier Conference, we'll also try to keep up with the NWAACC which is the community colleges conference and the NCAA Division 3 information.
As you can see there's a lot of information to try and pass along, the focus will remain on the local high school news, scores and stories. I hope you've enjoyed this first month with us and we will continue to provide you with news and information as we get it.
Again my theme; "It takes a village to raise a child" your help in providing news stories and information is helpful. Contact us at lanpdx2003@yahoo.com
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
100+ League Victories, Kings/Queens of the Hill
PRAIRIE; The mear mention of the name, Prairie, brings to mind dominance in girl's basketball in the state of Washington. Especially here in Southwest Washington. Prairie hasn't lost a league game in over 8 years. Eight years... WOW... No matter how you feel about the controversy that surrounds the coaching staff and/or program, you have to respect what they've been able to achieve. League and State championships are expected out of this program. Reloading is the catch word for Prairie, year after year. And this year's no different.
Although they've moved from the 4A to the 3A division, a league championship is still expected and likely. In fact it seems the only real question is, "will someone catch them on a bad night" and stop that consecutive victory streak. Skyview and Battle Ground tried for years in the 4A division and were unable to achieve that allusive victory. Maybe this year, in the 3A, Union, Camas, Fort Vancouver, Hudson's Bay or Columbia River might be able to sneak up on them... NOT!!!
Having had a chance to see them play this fall, Prairie, again is the class of Southwest Washington. Better talent coming in off the bench then most teams can present in their starting line-ups. Tall, strong, tough, and skilled. Reloading, huh. I don't want to talk about the individual players too much, but Lindsey Levanen and Heather Corral (younger sister to Ashley) should lead this team to the state tournament for the next couple of years. Wow Al, you've done it again.
I think it does good to have a dominate team in the area, it brings up the level of play for all the other teams trying to compete with them. And the level of play in the area has improved, but Prairie still is a little ahead of everyone else. This will be a interesting year in the league, but I think the big battle will be for number #2 in the 3A. Good luck to all.
Although they've moved from the 4A to the 3A division, a league championship is still expected and likely. In fact it seems the only real question is, "will someone catch them on a bad night" and stop that consecutive victory streak. Skyview and Battle Ground tried for years in the 4A division and were unable to achieve that allusive victory. Maybe this year, in the 3A, Union, Camas, Fort Vancouver, Hudson's Bay or Columbia River might be able to sneak up on them... NOT!!!
Having had a chance to see them play this fall, Prairie, again is the class of Southwest Washington. Better talent coming in off the bench then most teams can present in their starting line-ups. Tall, strong, tough, and skilled. Reloading, huh. I don't want to talk about the individual players too much, but Lindsey Levanen and Heather Corral (younger sister to Ashley) should lead this team to the state tournament for the next couple of years. Wow Al, you've done it again.
I think it does good to have a dominate team in the area, it brings up the level of play for all the other teams trying to compete with them. And the level of play in the area has improved, but Prairie still is a little ahead of everyone else. This will be a interesting year in the league, but I think the big battle will be for number #2 in the 3A. Good luck to all.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Practice / Tryouts start November 17
Lot's of questions come to mind with the official start of the basketball season looming close. Athlete's are asking, What team will I make this year, (varsity, JV, C/freshman team)? What should I do to prepare for tryouts? Who else at school (new kids, players coming back, ext.) will be trying out this year? Will the coach like and appreciate my game this year? Are the girls on the team going to be nice and like me? Will the team be any good this year? Parents are wondering, Will this be a good experience for my daughter? Do the coaches know what they're really doing? Will the coach give my daughter the opportunity (playing time, run plays for her, ext) that she deserves? Will my daughter be able to balance playing games, practice, social life, and school? Coaches are pondering, What will be the best system (press, run, zone, walk it up, ext.) for the team this year? Who is going to come out and be ready to play for us this year? Will I have any surprises (good or bad)? Will I push the right buttons, call the right plays, yell at the right time, to get us over the hump?
Anxiety abroad... It's all good. This will be an interesting year. Be sure you go see a few games. Not just your daughter's games, but go to some other games also. It's a very entertaining experience and doesn't cost much or take much of your time. We have some very talented young ladies in the area, and they deserve enthusiastic fans like you. Make an evening of it, you'll see it will be well worth it. We'll see you there.
ENJOY SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON GIRL'S BASKETBALL
Anxiety abroad... It's all good. This will be an interesting year. Be sure you go see a few games. Not just your daughter's games, but go to some other games also. It's a very entertaining experience and doesn't cost much or take much of your time. We have some very talented young ladies in the area, and they deserve enthusiastic fans like you. Make an evening of it, you'll see it will be well worth it. We'll see you there.
ENJOY SOUTHWEST WASHINGTON GIRL'S BASKETBALL
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Recreational fun vs. Competitive reality
Bouncing, kicking, hitting, shooting or catching a ball. Fun and games. Not only will you get great exercise, but you'll learn life values in playing these games that will be a tremendous help later in life. Winning, losing, failure and success learning how to deal with it all. Pushing yourself past your own expectations. Working with others to achieve success. All important life lessons. Playing sports brings it all out. Regardless of how talented you are, or if you win or lose. Participating is important. Let everyone play. Have fun...
The fact is that high school athletics and the Club/AAU circuit is leaning more and more toward the competitive reality of sports. The financial savings that come from a college athletic scholarship saves families thousands of dollars. This makes the motives of those involved (the student athlete) come to a higher level of stress and seriousness in that sport. Regardless of this being right or wrong, this is the reality of today's society. Many parents are very involved with their child's high school athletic programs, wanting / demanding good coaching, lots of attention and playing time for their child, and a winning program.
High schools are having a hard time justifying spending the dollars to have a good program. The cost of hiring full time coaches, and to travel to competitive locations for games, is prohibitive. Yet schools understand the advantages that comes with being recognize for having winning athletic programs. Then you get that parent that feel their child should play because, well they are on the team, and I spend a lot of time in the booster club, and I'm on the PTA, and well that's only fair. That's how it was years ago when I played, and that's how it is in the recreation league. So let my child play.
I think this is why Club/AAU teams are becoming more and more prevalent. Parents desire more opportunity for their kids and these Club/AAU teams aren't bound by some of the rules that high school teams are. Traveling to play in locations where the athletes can get exposure is important. Be careful when looking at these Club/AAU teams. Money is a motive of many of the programs, providing big promises just to get you child on the team. Yes it does cost to run these programs, and yes it's only fair that the people running them earn some income. But be sure you know what your getting for your dollar. Shop around. There are small organizations and big organizations and there are positives and negatives to both.
Bottom line. Know your kid. Know what's motivating them. Know what they really want. Try to take an honest evaluation of your child's talent. Are they playing to have fun, and socialize? The more you get into the higher level of playing a game. The more competitive it becomes and the more reality you'll face. Be sure you and your child are ready for the good and the bad. Athletes, play your heart out at your high school, and join a good Club/AAU team, only if you're taking sports seriously.
I wish everyone a very successful season this year. I hope you reach all your dreams and goals.
The fact is that high school athletics and the Club/AAU circuit is leaning more and more toward the competitive reality of sports. The financial savings that come from a college athletic scholarship saves families thousands of dollars. This makes the motives of those involved (the student athlete) come to a higher level of stress and seriousness in that sport. Regardless of this being right or wrong, this is the reality of today's society. Many parents are very involved with their child's high school athletic programs, wanting / demanding good coaching, lots of attention and playing time for their child, and a winning program.
High schools are having a hard time justifying spending the dollars to have a good program. The cost of hiring full time coaches, and to travel to competitive locations for games, is prohibitive. Yet schools understand the advantages that comes with being recognize for having winning athletic programs. Then you get that parent that feel their child should play because, well they are on the team, and I spend a lot of time in the booster club, and I'm on the PTA, and well that's only fair. That's how it was years ago when I played, and that's how it is in the recreation league. So let my child play.
I think this is why Club/AAU teams are becoming more and more prevalent. Parents desire more opportunity for their kids and these Club/AAU teams aren't bound by some of the rules that high school teams are. Traveling to play in locations where the athletes can get exposure is important. Be careful when looking at these Club/AAU teams. Money is a motive of many of the programs, providing big promises just to get you child on the team. Yes it does cost to run these programs, and yes it's only fair that the people running them earn some income. But be sure you know what your getting for your dollar. Shop around. There are small organizations and big organizations and there are positives and negatives to both.
Bottom line. Know your kid. Know what's motivating them. Know what they really want. Try to take an honest evaluation of your child's talent. Are they playing to have fun, and socialize? The more you get into the higher level of playing a game. The more competitive it becomes and the more reality you'll face. Be sure you and your child are ready for the good and the bad. Athletes, play your heart out at your high school, and join a good Club/AAU team, only if you're taking sports seriously.
I wish everyone a very successful season this year. I hope you reach all your dreams and goals.
There's more to girls than basketball
Make up and what to wear, not my thing but here is a little something that some of the young ladies may like. Just thought I'd change the pace a bit. {smile} http://sports.espn.go.com/highschool/rise/basketball/girls/columns/story?columnist=neville_martonne&id=3659227
Enjoy. More hoops coming...
Enjoy. More hoops coming...
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Other sports vs basketball follow-up
I've read a lot about this on other blogs. This information came from the Oregonlive.com site. I thought it was ironic that I happen to place this vball vs. soccer vs. bball vs. softball blog. Check out what some of these contributors had to say.
My observation and experience over the years is that basketball being a more physically aggressive sport attracts the more aggressive girls while vball attracts very athletic skilled girls who do not like the physical pounding of bodies that occurs in bball. At the younger levels when these girls and their parents are deciding which sports to play the roughness of bball really disenchants a lot of girls from the sport. Further lots of girl bball players do not like vball that much because of the lack of physical contact. That is just human nature that different people have different personalities not one size fits all. Given a chance to play a sport year round that really appeals to you is an easy choice. The club teams would die off without committed athletes so obviously the girls in these respective sports have a strong desire to play year round and so naturally the clubs have developed to meet this need.
another said;
Went to watch a friend's daughter play in a volleyball tournament the other day. Amazing to see so many girls that could be basketball players that opt for year round volleyball. Specialization and pressure from club coaches has really changed the landscape for youth and high school athletes. Interesting to speculate how many might have picked the wrong option to get pigeon-holed at too early an age. I am sure most are having a very enjoyable rewarding experience, so this is not meant to be negative .... just that some of the skill, size, athleticism displayed makes you wonder what they could have done with a basketball rather than a volleyball with the same dedication and training.
and yet another said;
It started happening 25 years ago. Particularly on the East side of town, where the big volleyball clubs became dominant in the 1980's until now. For all this time did you think that the Metro league schools and TRL schools dominated basketball just because there were no athletic tall girls east of I-205? The V-Ball clubs are a little more widespread than they were 10-20 years ago, but still you'd be amazed at how many 6'1" to 6-4" incredibly athletic girls who DIDN'T play basketball. The clubs hook these little girls and their naive parents into year-round commitments at a very young age, and it works. Same formula now works for soccer. Over the years it's been frustrating to watch.
Interesting huh....
My observation and experience over the years is that basketball being a more physically aggressive sport attracts the more aggressive girls while vball attracts very athletic skilled girls who do not like the physical pounding of bodies that occurs in bball. At the younger levels when these girls and their parents are deciding which sports to play the roughness of bball really disenchants a lot of girls from the sport. Further lots of girl bball players do not like vball that much because of the lack of physical contact. That is just human nature that different people have different personalities not one size fits all. Given a chance to play a sport year round that really appeals to you is an easy choice. The club teams would die off without committed athletes so obviously the girls in these respective sports have a strong desire to play year round and so naturally the clubs have developed to meet this need.
another said;
Went to watch a friend's daughter play in a volleyball tournament the other day. Amazing to see so many girls that could be basketball players that opt for year round volleyball. Specialization and pressure from club coaches has really changed the landscape for youth and high school athletes. Interesting to speculate how many might have picked the wrong option to get pigeon-holed at too early an age. I am sure most are having a very enjoyable rewarding experience, so this is not meant to be negative .... just that some of the skill, size, athleticism displayed makes you wonder what they could have done with a basketball rather than a volleyball with the same dedication and training.
and yet another said;
It started happening 25 years ago. Particularly on the East side of town, where the big volleyball clubs became dominant in the 1980's until now. For all this time did you think that the Metro league schools and TRL schools dominated basketball just because there were no athletic tall girls east of I-205? The V-Ball clubs are a little more widespread than they were 10-20 years ago, but still you'd be amazed at how many 6'1" to 6-4" incredibly athletic girls who DIDN'T play basketball. The clubs hook these little girls and their naive parents into year-round commitments at a very young age, and it works. Same formula now works for soccer. Over the years it's been frustrating to watch.
Interesting huh....
Soccer v. Volleyball v. Softball v. Basketball
Since the passage of Title IX, and the implementation of various rules in an attempt to balance opportunities for women, female athletes have had an abundance of college athletic scholarship opportunities. As parents, we all want to give our daughters a head start in life. In today's society a college diploma is essential to grabbing that piece of the American Pie. What better way of helping our kids get their college education than through an athletic scholarship. "But which sport should you choose; soccer, volleyball, basketball, softball" They've all become so specialize. The talent levels and athleticism of the young ladies in these sports are increasingly getting better and better. The lack of you spending 'full time', year round, concentration on one sport, could prevent you from becoming good enough for that sports college athletic scholarship.
Now be CAREFUL PARENTS... Having well rounded young ladies is important. Having many life experience is essential to having a well rounded life for our daughters. But...
Soccer has been the "Big Kahuna" here in the Vancouver area, with well establish and well run club and AAU teams and plenty of outdoor and indoor fields, allowing for year round participation. Soccer has the biggest number of participants. And of course coaches and organizers hanging the carrot of 'scholarship' over the heads of parents to get them to participate year round, keeps some of the better athletes from playing other sports, focusing on soccer. Softball and volleyball club teams also have a strong foot hold in the community. Of course that same promise of development to scholarship offers, and because there really wasn't too much of an outlet for girls in basketball, many of the best athletic girls chose those other sports.
Until recently, unless you participated in the Prairie Select teams, there really wasn't much, as far as good coaching and development or an opportunity to compete at a high level in the basketball arena. Recently there have been some other organization pop up, Storm Select, Vancouver Heat, and I believe Union HS and Mt. View HS are starting 'select, club' type teams and of course my team "Premier Elite". But still some of the better female athletes are going to those other sports, or are playing multi-sports and not specializing, because they started with those other sports at a young age.
So what's best. Young ladies deserve the opportunity to explore and see what they like best, what they want to be, and simply to try different things. Sports and non-sports. There is a time though when you have to make up your mind and focus, and I think it's about your sophomore year in high school, but that's only one man's opinion.
Strange statements coming from a parent that his daughter focused on basketball at a young age. True, I helped her hone in on her goals, then watched her live her dream taking her high school team to state, and becoming a full ride scholarship basketball player at a Division 1 school. Yes it's a great feeling, and a great accomplishment for her. Basketball has and continues to teach her valuable lessons in life, and having her education paid for is a big plus... But I would have been just as proud if she had choose soccer, volleyball or softball. Yes I'm a basketball guy, having played in college and coach now for the past 10 years or so. But my son, never played basketball in middle or high school. In fact he didn't choose to participate in sports until he play football his sophomore year in high school, but he jump in whole heartily and earn a football scholarship. I'm just as proud of him as my daughter.
So what's my point. That's is the point, there is no point "right or wrong". Do what you think is best. Utilize all options and make the best choice for you and yours. If basketball is your choice, throw everything into it and it will give back. Contact one of our local teams, and do it full time.
What do you think? I'm not a 'anti' soccer, volleyball or softball guy. I'm just a 'pro' basketball guy. And we are here for you.
Now be CAREFUL PARENTS... Having well rounded young ladies is important. Having many life experience is essential to having a well rounded life for our daughters. But...
Soccer has been the "Big Kahuna" here in the Vancouver area, with well establish and well run club and AAU teams and plenty of outdoor and indoor fields, allowing for year round participation. Soccer has the biggest number of participants. And of course coaches and organizers hanging the carrot of 'scholarship' over the heads of parents to get them to participate year round, keeps some of the better athletes from playing other sports, focusing on soccer. Softball and volleyball club teams also have a strong foot hold in the community. Of course that same promise of development to scholarship offers, and because there really wasn't too much of an outlet for girls in basketball, many of the best athletic girls chose those other sports.
Until recently, unless you participated in the Prairie Select teams, there really wasn't much, as far as good coaching and development or an opportunity to compete at a high level in the basketball arena. Recently there have been some other organization pop up, Storm Select, Vancouver Heat, and I believe Union HS and Mt. View HS are starting 'select, club' type teams and of course my team "Premier Elite". But still some of the better female athletes are going to those other sports, or are playing multi-sports and not specializing, because they started with those other sports at a young age.
So what's best. Young ladies deserve the opportunity to explore and see what they like best, what they want to be, and simply to try different things. Sports and non-sports. There is a time though when you have to make up your mind and focus, and I think it's about your sophomore year in high school, but that's only one man's opinion.
Strange statements coming from a parent that his daughter focused on basketball at a young age. True, I helped her hone in on her goals, then watched her live her dream taking her high school team to state, and becoming a full ride scholarship basketball player at a Division 1 school. Yes it's a great feeling, and a great accomplishment for her. Basketball has and continues to teach her valuable lessons in life, and having her education paid for is a big plus... But I would have been just as proud if she had choose soccer, volleyball or softball. Yes I'm a basketball guy, having played in college and coach now for the past 10 years or so. But my son, never played basketball in middle or high school. In fact he didn't choose to participate in sports until he play football his sophomore year in high school, but he jump in whole heartily and earn a football scholarship. I'm just as proud of him as my daughter.
So what's my point. That's is the point, there is no point "right or wrong". Do what you think is best. Utilize all options and make the best choice for you and yours. If basketball is your choice, throw everything into it and it will give back. Contact one of our local teams, and do it full time.
What do you think? I'm not a 'anti' soccer, volleyball or softball guy. I'm just a 'pro' basketball guy. And we are here for you.
Friday, October 17, 2008
HOW TO SCORE 22 A NIGHT
In the last issue of the Sporting News (Oct. 13) there is an article on how to score 30 ppg in the NBA. The article was by Rick Barry. Translating that to a high school time frame it comes out to 20 in 32 minute games and 22 in 36 minute games.
Here are some of the main points---1. Be a great shooter and create your own shot. Creating off the dribble is important.2. Have the ability to drive right and left.3. Shoot a high % at the free throw line. You also need to get to the line.4. Run the floor and get offensive rebounds. These are easy baskets.5. Don't get discouraged if your shot isn't falling. Believe that you will make the next shot.
Here are some of the main points---1. Be a great shooter and create your own shot. Creating off the dribble is important.2. Have the ability to drive right and left.3. Shoot a high % at the free throw line. You also need to get to the line.4. Run the floor and get offensive rebounds. These are easy baskets.5. Don't get discouraged if your shot isn't falling. Believe that you will make the next shot.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
2008 Thunder Classic
The 2008 THUNDER CLASSIC at Mountain View High Sschool in Vancouver WA. is Saturday-Sunday, November 1st & 2nd for boys and girls grades 5th thru 8th. There will be an A & B Division go to GREAT48.COM to registar.
WSU coach June Daugherty having a great '09 recruiting season
read about one of the top point guards in the country committing to WSU from hoopgurlz.com http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/recruiting/basketball/womens/news/story?id=3641196
Daugherty is also keeping many in state players home. Getting a verbal commitment from Moses Lake's Carly Noyes as a part of her '09 recruiting class.
Go Cougs
Daugherty is also keeping many in state players home. Getting a verbal commitment from Moses Lake's Carly Noyes as a part of her '09 recruiting class.
Go Cougs
Player profile's
Southwest Washington has many excellent female basketball players. Many you've never heard of, and/or you don't know much about them. We will be starting a weekly profile on an impact athlete every week. Look for this to get started Monday October 20th, 2008. Ideas are welcome.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Seniors to watch in SW Washington this year
This upcoming season promises to be one of the most interesting of past few years here in southwest Washington. Last year the 2A division of the Greater St. Helen's League was the most competitive, but this year almost every team in every division 2A, 3A, & 4A has a chance to win their league title. The lack of senior talent, the reorganization of the leagues, and the fact that you never know what you'll get from talented underclassmen, leaves every team eagerly anticipating the upcoming season, with feelings of "this could be our year" ringing in the air.
The underclassman talent seems to dominate most schools. But here are a few seniors that we believe you'll hear more about as the season unfolds.
DARON DEAN of Hockinson is probably the most talented power player in the area. The 5'10 senior should wreck havoc in the 2A division. Working hard in the off season should pay off, playing all spring and summer, Daron is posed for a big senior season. I expect Hockinson to lean on her broad shoulders throughout the season, keeping them competitive for the 2A championship.
MEGAN DIRE of Union has a great shooters stroke. Again one of those players that put in a lot of time over the off season, playing on spring and summer teams, and being the only returning senior from last years 3A all league team, Megan should meet all expectations of being a standout player for Union this year. As she goes so will Union.
CAITLYNN PATTERSON of Mountain View has probably made the most improvement of any of the '09 players. Although there seems to be a recurring them to my selections "girls playing spring and summer ball" the fact remains that the more time you put into your craft, the better you'll get. Caitlynn raised her stock as a player in the off season, good enough to receive a scholarship offer over the summer. She should provided a stabilizing force for Mt. View.
EVIE EVERETT also of Mountain View has the most athletic talent for the Thunder. Such a talented athlete, she plays many sports for the school. Gaging how long it will take for Evie to transition from soccer to basketball before she's up to full swing will be the question for Mt. View. But with out question Mt. View goes as far as she carries them in league.
AMBER MEYERS of Heritage could be the most talented big in the area. Long and athletic, and again one of those players that plays other sports, Amber has qualities to help lead the Timberwolves to the 4A title. She will be one to watch all season.
I'm sure there are other '09 players and I've probably left your favorite senior out, the season will unfold and I will report on all that show promise. If you know of someone that deserves recognition please don't hesitate to contact me. Until then have a great season ladies, your senior season can be something you'll never forget.
The underclassman talent seems to dominate most schools. But here are a few seniors that we believe you'll hear more about as the season unfolds.
DARON DEAN of Hockinson is probably the most talented power player in the area. The 5'10 senior should wreck havoc in the 2A division. Working hard in the off season should pay off, playing all spring and summer, Daron is posed for a big senior season. I expect Hockinson to lean on her broad shoulders throughout the season, keeping them competitive for the 2A championship.
MEGAN DIRE of Union has a great shooters stroke. Again one of those players that put in a lot of time over the off season, playing on spring and summer teams, and being the only returning senior from last years 3A all league team, Megan should meet all expectations of being a standout player for Union this year. As she goes so will Union.
CAITLYNN PATTERSON of Mountain View has probably made the most improvement of any of the '09 players. Although there seems to be a recurring them to my selections "girls playing spring and summer ball" the fact remains that the more time you put into your craft, the better you'll get. Caitlynn raised her stock as a player in the off season, good enough to receive a scholarship offer over the summer. She should provided a stabilizing force for Mt. View.
EVIE EVERETT also of Mountain View has the most athletic talent for the Thunder. Such a talented athlete, she plays many sports for the school. Gaging how long it will take for Evie to transition from soccer to basketball before she's up to full swing will be the question for Mt. View. But with out question Mt. View goes as far as she carries them in league.
AMBER MEYERS of Heritage could be the most talented big in the area. Long and athletic, and again one of those players that plays other sports, Amber has qualities to help lead the Timberwolves to the 4A title. She will be one to watch all season.
I'm sure there are other '09 players and I've probably left your favorite senior out, the season will unfold and I will report on all that show promise. If you know of someone that deserves recognition please don't hesitate to contact me. Until then have a great season ladies, your senior season can be something you'll never forget.
Monday, October 13, 2008
TRANSFERS & RECRUITING, how do you feel?
I have tried to avoid this topic because I realize that regardless to what side you stand on this subject, it is a highly emotional hot topic. Blogs all over the area talk about this subject and can never get enough of it. The WIAA spends 15 pages in its 2008-2009 hand book dedicated to the eligibility of student athlete's. Most of those pages, focus on transfers. It seems everyone has an opinion, (a strong opinion) one way or another. Usually because some how or another it has directly effected them.
There is no doubt about a couple of points. Student athletes transferring from one school to another for the sake of sports, happens. The governing body of high school sports in Washington {WIAA} wants to control it, if not outlaw it all together. "Allow it only under special circumstances". Parents wanting the best for their child, exposure and or athletic development, want to take advantage of schools with traditionally better programs and coaching and want to get there child into that program. Coaches, administrators and even the students understand the importance and benefits of having a winning program. The merits of is this right or wrong can be argued forever.
I decided to open this forum to that conversation. Please feel free to ad you comments below on how you feel about this hot topic. Are you 'for' letting kids transfer to what ever school they want, to pursue their athletic success. Or are you 'against', coaches stock piling talent from other areas in pursuit of team success. It becomes that simple. Should a good athlete have the right to go where he wants to give him or her the best chance for atlethic success, or should a coach have the right to pick and choose from kids out of his school zone, to make his team successful. Think hard on it before you comment. Don't just think about how it affects you now, but if you where on the other side how it would effect you then.
I look forward to your comments. I hope to have many.
There is no doubt about a couple of points. Student athletes transferring from one school to another for the sake of sports, happens. The governing body of high school sports in Washington {WIAA} wants to control it, if not outlaw it all together. "Allow it only under special circumstances". Parents wanting the best for their child, exposure and or athletic development, want to take advantage of schools with traditionally better programs and coaching and want to get there child into that program. Coaches, administrators and even the students understand the importance and benefits of having a winning program. The merits of is this right or wrong can be argued forever.
I decided to open this forum to that conversation. Please feel free to ad you comments below on how you feel about this hot topic. Are you 'for' letting kids transfer to what ever school they want, to pursue their athletic success. Or are you 'against', coaches stock piling talent from other areas in pursuit of team success. It becomes that simple. Should a good athlete have the right to go where he wants to give him or her the best chance for atlethic success, or should a coach have the right to pick and choose from kids out of his school zone, to make his team successful. Think hard on it before you comment. Don't just think about how it affects you now, but if you where on the other side how it would effect you then.
I look forward to your comments. I hope to have many.
How to Identify Talent
The difference between players that play at the next level and those that don't isn't always physical. Brian McCormick writes about talent identification, why athleticism and length are overvalued and psychological and mental characteristics are overlooked. "For a player to develop greatly, he must take the initiative and work out diligently on his own," says McCormick. Read more, by hitting the link.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Lessons learned through playing basketball
Vice President candidate Sarah Palin has a feature in the Detroit Free Press dealing with her basketball experience.
“I’ve said this before, that everything I ever needed to know I learned on the basketball team,” she said. “All about setting goals and working hard and having self-discipline and knowing what strengths were in the team members and then assembling those team members and tasking the team to fulfill missions. That’s what you learn in sports.”
“I’ve said this before, that everything I ever needed to know I learned on the basketball team,” she said. “All about setting goals and working hard and having self-discipline and knowing what strengths were in the team members and then assembling those team members and tasking the team to fulfill missions. That’s what you learn in sports.”
Auburn Riverside guards commit to D1 schools
By Tom Wyrwich
Seattle Times staff reporter; Seattle Times staff reporter;
Riverside pair commits
Auburn Riverside senior guards Nichole Jackson and Amanda Thomson recently made oral commitments to play basketball at Division I colleges.
Jackson, who was instrumental in Riverside's run to the past two Class 3A state championships, chose Portland State over San Diego State and Pepperdine. Thomson, who transferred this school year from Kentwood, picked Cal State Northridge over Northern Arizona. That makes seven D-1 scholarships for Riverside players over the past four years.
Jackson joins former teammate Stephanie Egwuatu, a 2008 Riverside graduate, at Portland State. She said staying close to him was a factor along with the possibility of immediate playing time.
"It's a team that's up and coming and I feel I can really make an impact there," she said.
Thomson said she likes to Cal State coaching staff and she expects to get plenty of family support there as her father makes frequent business trips to the area and her sister plans to move to the area. She and Jackson both said they were happy to make their college decisions before the season started.
"I just want to focus on my season," Thomson said.
Seattle Times staff reporter; Seattle Times staff reporter;
Riverside pair commits
Auburn Riverside senior guards Nichole Jackson and Amanda Thomson recently made oral commitments to play basketball at Division I colleges.
Jackson, who was instrumental in Riverside's run to the past two Class 3A state championships, chose Portland State over San Diego State and Pepperdine. Thomson, who transferred this school year from Kentwood, picked Cal State Northridge over Northern Arizona. That makes seven D-1 scholarships for Riverside players over the past four years.
Jackson joins former teammate Stephanie Egwuatu, a 2008 Riverside graduate, at Portland State. She said staying close to him was a factor along with the possibility of immediate playing time.
"It's a team that's up and coming and I feel I can really make an impact there," she said.
Thomson said she likes to Cal State coaching staff and she expects to get plenty of family support there as her father makes frequent business trips to the area and her sister plans to move to the area. She and Jackson both said they were happy to make their college decisions before the season started.
"I just want to focus on my season," Thomson said.
Greater St. Helen's 2A League '08 - '09 prospectus
After the tightest league championship race in southwest Washington last year, with 3 teams ending with a 7 - 3 record, Woodland, Mark Morris, and Hockinson, and with Ridgefield right behind with a 6 - 4 record, this year race for the championship probably will not match that '07 - '08 race but it will be tight. Woodland's strong hold on this division is weakening ever so slightly. While losing the core of their team, Coach Flanagan is retooling again and will be tough to beat. The team that has the best chance of dethroning Woodland is Hockinson. With a core of returning starters they should be tough. Mark Morris and Ridgefield will compete strongly again, R.A. Long should be better and Washougal will probably pull up the rear again this year.
Four teams out of this division went to districts last season, but none advanced. This year we hope to see one or two teams from the GSHL 2A make it to state.
Four teams out of this division went to districts last season, but none advanced. This year we hope to see one or two teams from the GSHL 2A make it to state.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Local athlete's playing at the "next level"
We are going to try and keep you aware of all the young ladies that are currently playing at the next level. Your help on this project will be helpful. If you hear of or know of any player now playing at a college of university from this area please don't hesitate to make us aware. For now here's what we know.
WNBA
CHANTELLE ANDERSON - Hudson's Bay '99 - Vanderbilt University '03 - last WNBA team Atlanta Dream
NCAA Division 1
KIVA HERMAN - Hudson's Bay '06 - University of San Diego
KATIE MADISON - Prairie '06 - University of Idaho / transfer to Georgia Tech
NICOLE JOHNSON - Columbia River '06 - Utah State University
JAZMINE FOREMAN - Hudson's Bay '07 - Brigham Young University (BYU)
ASHLEY CORRAL - Prairie '08 - University of Southern California (USC)
ASHLEE SMITH - Skyview '08 - St. Mary's College
NCAA Division 2 & 3 and NAIA
HEATHER CARDELLI - Evergreen '07 - Evergreen State College; SARA SKELTON - Mt. View '06 - Evergreen State College; BRITNEY KNOTTS - Mt. View '06 - Evergreen State College; KATIE ALLEN - Battle Ground '06 - Warner Pacific College; JAMIE GELHAR - Prairie '06 - St. Martin's University; KRISSY BASSETT - Washougal '06 - St. Martin's University; EMILY LASHUA - Prairie '08 - St. Martin's University; LAUREN HEFFLIN - Ridgefield '07 - Western Washington; BRITTNEY ROGGENKAM - La Center '07 - Northwest Nazarene; RACHELL BRISTOW - Prairie '07 - Concordia College; JESSALYN JACKSON - Fort Vancouver '08 - Northwest University; KIESHA GORDON - Heritage '08 - George Fox University
Community College
KIERRA HARRISON - Fort Vancouver '08 - Shoreline CC; JOCELYN JOUDREY - Heritage '08 - Gray's Harbor CC; McKENZIE MEYER - Prairie '08 - Clackamas; DAYLE POWELL - Skyview '08 Clackamas; SADIE SALTE - Kelso '08 - Lower Columbia; NATALIE SMITH - Woodland '08 - Lower Columbia; CASSIE KOEING - Woodland '08 - Lower Columbia; JULISA WRIGHT - Fort Vancouver '07 - Clark; SAMANTHA RIGGAN - Prairie '07 - Clark
WNBA
CHANTELLE ANDERSON - Hudson's Bay '99 - Vanderbilt University '03 - last WNBA team Atlanta Dream
NCAA Division 1
KIVA HERMAN - Hudson's Bay '06 - University of San Diego
KATIE MADISON - Prairie '06 - University of Idaho / transfer to Georgia Tech
NICOLE JOHNSON - Columbia River '06 - Utah State University
JAZMINE FOREMAN - Hudson's Bay '07 - Brigham Young University (BYU)
ASHLEY CORRAL - Prairie '08 - University of Southern California (USC)
ASHLEE SMITH - Skyview '08 - St. Mary's College
NCAA Division 2 & 3 and NAIA
HEATHER CARDELLI - Evergreen '07 - Evergreen State College; SARA SKELTON - Mt. View '06 - Evergreen State College; BRITNEY KNOTTS - Mt. View '06 - Evergreen State College; KATIE ALLEN - Battle Ground '06 - Warner Pacific College; JAMIE GELHAR - Prairie '06 - St. Martin's University; KRISSY BASSETT - Washougal '06 - St. Martin's University; EMILY LASHUA - Prairie '08 - St. Martin's University; LAUREN HEFFLIN - Ridgefield '07 - Western Washington; BRITTNEY ROGGENKAM - La Center '07 - Northwest Nazarene; RACHELL BRISTOW - Prairie '07 - Concordia College; JESSALYN JACKSON - Fort Vancouver '08 - Northwest University; KIESHA GORDON - Heritage '08 - George Fox University
Community College
KIERRA HARRISON - Fort Vancouver '08 - Shoreline CC; JOCELYN JOUDREY - Heritage '08 - Gray's Harbor CC; McKENZIE MEYER - Prairie '08 - Clackamas; DAYLE POWELL - Skyview '08 Clackamas; SADIE SALTE - Kelso '08 - Lower Columbia; NATALIE SMITH - Woodland '08 - Lower Columbia; CASSIE KOEING - Woodland '08 - Lower Columbia; JULISA WRIGHT - Fort Vancouver '07 - Clark; SAMANTHA RIGGAN - Prairie '07 - Clark
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Getting colder and wet, smell hoops in the air
The NBA pre-season starts this week. Most college basketball teams are in to full practice now. The WNBA championship was Sunday (congratulations to 3 time champs, Detroit Shock). Yeap most of us basketball junkies are getting excited, gearing up and we're more then ready. Everyone is thinking about basketball. Maybe everyone's not acting on it yet, but it's passing their minds. Some of those "other sport" athlete's (volleyball and soccer) are seeing their season winding down, and are tuning their antennas in for basketball.
Get a jump on try-outs in November, start working out now. Running, shooting, and dribbling. Shake of that late summer / early fall rust. If you're looking for somewhere to work-out, don't hesitate to give "Premier Elite" a call.
Here are some websites you might want to take a look at in your spare time. They focus on national girl's high school basketball. You'll get a chance to see how big this really is.
http://www.hoopgurlz.com/
www.oregonlive.com/forums/girlsbasketball6a/index.ssf
www.freewebs.com/girlsball/index.htm
Any and every player you hear about receiving letters of interest from colleges, actually being recruited with a visit from a coach or visiting officially or unofficially to a college or university, or signing letters of intent, please get in touch with us right away so we can make mention of it in this news letter.
Remember "Potential minus commitment equals nothing"
Get a jump on try-outs in November, start working out now. Running, shooting, and dribbling. Shake of that late summer / early fall rust. If you're looking for somewhere to work-out, don't hesitate to give "Premier Elite" a call.
Here are some websites you might want to take a look at in your spare time. They focus on national girl's high school basketball. You'll get a chance to see how big this really is.
http://www.hoopgurlz.com/
www.oregonlive.com/forums/girlsbasketball6a/index.ssf
www.freewebs.com/girlsball/index.htm
Any and every player you hear about receiving letters of interest from colleges, actually being recruited with a visit from a coach or visiting officially or unofficially to a college or university, or signing letters of intent, please get in touch with us right away so we can make mention of it in this news letter.
Remember "Potential minus commitment equals nothing"
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Shifting teams creates new power in the leagues
The 3A and 4A Greater St. Helen's Leagues balance of power is shifting. Prairie moving to 3A from 4A (where they dominate for years) and Kelso (who went to state last year in the 3A) now going from 3A to 4A has given a new look to both divisions in the area. We are currently taking a survey on whom you think will win the 4A, (now that Prairie is no longer there), and a 3A survey is coming soon, but let's talk a bit about the shift of power.
In the 3A last year it was Fort Vancouver (winning league), Kelso and Union (the new kids on the block) then Camas, Columbia River and Hudson's Bay. This year with the addition of Prairie and the loss of Kelso, and Fort losing it's senior crop, and everyone returning for Union (last year they had no seniors), Camas had a young team also last year and should be stronger, this year the 3A looks like it could be very interesting. Bay, Fort, and River with their new coach may struggle early, but in girl's basketball "you never know". Stay tune for when we post the 3A survey. It will be interesting to see what you all think.
In the 4A, with Prairie leaving, everyone now feels as if they have a shot at the title. Kelso going up to 4A will make it tough for the old guard. Skyview should be a contender once again but they lost some key seniors. Heritage actually looks to be the strongest team on paper, but the game isn't played on paper. Mountain View will be competitive, Evergreen and Battle Ground may struggle early but as I said "you never know with girl's hoops". Be sure to vote, we'll be removing this survey in November.
We will take an in debt look in to the 2A next time. Breaking out every team and giving you our opinion on who's going to take the league championship and who's going to state. We'll also be giving a team by team break down on the 3A and 4A forth coming. For now, just starting some conversation.
In the 3A last year it was Fort Vancouver (winning league), Kelso and Union (the new kids on the block) then Camas, Columbia River and Hudson's Bay. This year with the addition of Prairie and the loss of Kelso, and Fort losing it's senior crop, and everyone returning for Union (last year they had no seniors), Camas had a young team also last year and should be stronger, this year the 3A looks like it could be very interesting. Bay, Fort, and River with their new coach may struggle early, but in girl's basketball "you never know". Stay tune for when we post the 3A survey. It will be interesting to see what you all think.
In the 4A, with Prairie leaving, everyone now feels as if they have a shot at the title. Kelso going up to 4A will make it tough for the old guard. Skyview should be a contender once again but they lost some key seniors. Heritage actually looks to be the strongest team on paper, but the game isn't played on paper. Mountain View will be competitive, Evergreen and Battle Ground may struggle early but as I said "you never know with girl's hoops". Be sure to vote, we'll be removing this survey in November.
We will take an in debt look in to the 2A next time. Breaking out every team and giving you our opinion on who's going to take the league championship and who's going to state. We'll also be giving a team by team break down on the 3A and 4A forth coming. For now, just starting some conversation.
Friday, October 3, 2008
FALL LEAGUES & MSNM TOURNEY
HIGH SCHOOL NEWS
October is here, and basketballs are starting to bounce all around the state. Coaches are digging into the team closet's, dusting off equipment, and pumping up the balls. Open gyms are happening all around the state, and coaches are taking peaks at who's playing, and what kind of talent they'll have this season.
Many of the Southwest Washington high school teams will be playing in the fall league at Concordia College in Portland. We will keep you informed on how the Washington teams are doing at the tournament, who looks good, and who dosen't. Stay tune.
CLUB TEAM NEWS
We will also keep you up on what's going on in Seattle at the Mid Summer Nights Madness fall tourney. It is the fall viewing tournament for college coaches and many local college coaches will be there. None of the local club teams are going, but some Portland teams will be there. (they have some SW Washington players)
FYI
With kids starting to work-out and getting ready for the upcoming season, we simply want to remind you to strectch out throughly before every work-out. Flexiability is a key to injury prevention. Let's shoot for a injury free season. We wish everyone a happy and healthy season.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
LET'S GET STARTED, Southwest Washington - Vancouver Area
This is our welcoming blog. Just to get things going. We will be keeping you up to date with all the girl's basketball news, scores, league standing, and recruiting information through out the state of Washington. Soon we'll bring on Oregon and Idaho girl's hoops. Welcome aboard, if you have any story's or information to pass along, please don't hesitate to inform us, and we hope you'll enjoy. lanpdx2003@yahoo.com
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