1.) Cincinnati Mount Notre Dame
2.) Beavercreek
3.) Dayton Chaminade-Julienne
4.) Lakota West
5.) Youngstown Boardsman
6.) Shaker Heights
7.) Pickerington North
8.) Cincinnati Princeton
9.) Toledo Start
10.) Kettering Fairmont
11.) Perrysburg
12.) Toledo Waite
13.) Cincinnati Winton Woods
14.) Dublin Scioto
15.) Pickerington Central
Watch Out For: North Canton Hoover, Wadsworth, Anthony Wayne, Toledo Central Catholic
Sunday, December 14, 2008
The Brinn 15: Week Three, Division Two
1.) Lima Bath
2.) Hathaway Brown
3.) Kettering Archbishop Alter
4.) Warsaw River View
5.) Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit
6.) Akron Hoban
7.) Tipp City Tippecanoe
8.) Millersburg West Holmes
9.) Miami Trace
10.) Wapakoneta
11.) Tiffin Columbian
12.) Bucyrus
13.) Akron SVSM
14.) Salem
15.) Eastmoor Academy
Watch Out For: Clyde, Wauseon, Indian Lake, Shelby
2.) Hathaway Brown
3.) Kettering Archbishop Alter
4.) Warsaw River View
5.) Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit
6.) Akron Hoban
7.) Tipp City Tippecanoe
8.) Millersburg West Holmes
9.) Miami Trace
10.) Wapakoneta
11.) Tiffin Columbian
12.) Bucyrus
13.) Akron SVSM
14.) Salem
15.) Eastmoor Academy
Watch Out For: Clyde, Wauseon, Indian Lake, Shelby
The Brinn 15: Week Three, Division Four
1.)Columbus Africentric
2.)Convoy Crestview
3.)Berlin Hiland
4.)Waterford
5.)Bedord St Peter Chanel
6.)Cleveland Heights Lutheran East
7.)South Webster
8.)Carey
9.)Minster
10.)Delphos St Johns
11.)Ft Recovery
12.)Mogadore
13.)Ft. Loramie
14.)New Riegel
15.)Delphos Jefferson
Watch Out:
Kalida, Arlington, Fostoria St Wendelin, Pettisville, Gilead Christian
2.)Convoy Crestview
3.)Berlin Hiland
4.)Waterford
5.)Bedord St Peter Chanel
6.)Cleveland Heights Lutheran East
7.)South Webster
8.)Carey
9.)Minster
10.)Delphos St Johns
11.)Ft Recovery
12.)Mogadore
13.)Ft. Loramie
14.)New Riegel
15.)Delphos Jefferson
Watch Out:
Kalida, Arlington, Fostoria St Wendelin, Pettisville, Gilead Christian
The Brinn 15: Week Three, Division Three
1.)South Euclid Regina
2.)Casstown Miami East
3.)Oak Hill
4.)Marion Pleasant
5.)Sugarcreek Garaway
6.)Smithville
7.)Findlay Liberty Benton
8.)Haviland Wayne Trace
9.)Mt Blanchard Riverdale
10.)Middletown Madison
11.)South Point
12.)Genoa Area
13.)West Liberty Salem
14.)Colonel Crawford
15.)Manchester
Watch out for:
Millbury Lake, Columbus Bishop Ready
2.)Casstown Miami East
3.)Oak Hill
4.)Marion Pleasant
5.)Sugarcreek Garaway
6.)Smithville
7.)Findlay Liberty Benton
8.)Haviland Wayne Trace
9.)Mt Blanchard Riverdale
10.)Middletown Madison
11.)South Point
12.)Genoa Area
13.)West Liberty Salem
14.)Colonel Crawford
15.)Manchester
Watch out for:
Millbury Lake, Columbus Bishop Ready
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
The Brinn 15: Week Two, Division One
1.) Beavercreek
2.) Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame
3.) Cincinnati Princeton
4.) Pickerington North
5.) Toledo Start
6.) North Canton Hoover
7.) Dayton Chaminade-Julienne
8.) Lakota West
9.) Toledo Waite
10.) Dublin Scioto
11.) Shaker Heights
12.) Cincinnati Winton Woods
13.) Kettering Fairmont
14.) Perrysburg
15.) Youngstown Boardman
2.) Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame
3.) Cincinnati Princeton
4.) Pickerington North
5.) Toledo Start
6.) North Canton Hoover
7.) Dayton Chaminade-Julienne
8.) Lakota West
9.) Toledo Waite
10.) Dublin Scioto
11.) Shaker Heights
12.) Cincinnati Winton Woods
13.) Kettering Fairmont
14.) Perrysburg
15.) Youngstown Boardman
The Brinn 15: Week Two, Division Two
1.) Lima Bath
2.) Hathaway Brown
3.) Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit
4.) Warsaw River View
5.) Kettering Archbishop Alter
6.) Akron Hoban
7.) Millersburg West Holmes
8.) Tipp City Tippecanoe
9.) Akron SVSM
10.) Salem
11.) Indian Lake
12.) Wauseon
13.) Miami Trace
14.) Wapakoneta
15.) Colonel Crawford
2.) Hathaway Brown
3.) Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit
4.) Warsaw River View
5.) Kettering Archbishop Alter
6.) Akron Hoban
7.) Millersburg West Holmes
8.) Tipp City Tippecanoe
9.) Akron SVSM
10.) Salem
11.) Indian Lake
12.) Wauseon
13.) Miami Trace
14.) Wapakoneta
15.) Colonel Crawford
The Brinn 15: Week Two, Division Four
1.)Columbus Africentric
2.)Convoy Crestview
3.)Berlin Hiland
4.)Waterford
5.)Bedford St Peter Chanel
6.)Minster
7.)Cleveland Heights Lutheran East
8.)New Riegel
9.)New Bremen
10.)Delphos St Johns
11.)South Webster
12.)Mogadore
13.)Fostoria St Wendelin
14.)Kalida
15.)Ft Loramie
2.)Convoy Crestview
3.)Berlin Hiland
4.)Waterford
5.)Bedford St Peter Chanel
6.)Minster
7.)Cleveland Heights Lutheran East
8.)New Riegel
9.)New Bremen
10.)Delphos St Johns
11.)South Webster
12.)Mogadore
13.)Fostoria St Wendelin
14.)Kalida
15.)Ft Loramie
The Brinn 15: Week Two, Division Three
1.)South Euclid Regina
2.)Casstown Miami East
3.)Oak Hill
4.)Marion Pleasant
5.)Sugarcreek Garaway
6.)Findlay Liberty Benton
7.)Haviland Wayne Trace
8.)Smithville
9.)Mt Blanchard Riverdale
10.)Middletown Madison
11.)South Point
12.)Atwater Waterloo
13.)Genoa Area
14.)Garfield Heights Trinity
15.)West Liberty Salem
2.)Casstown Miami East
3.)Oak Hill
4.)Marion Pleasant
5.)Sugarcreek Garaway
6.)Findlay Liberty Benton
7.)Haviland Wayne Trace
8.)Smithville
9.)Mt Blanchard Riverdale
10.)Middletown Madison
11.)South Point
12.)Atwater Waterloo
13.)Genoa Area
14.)Garfield Heights Trinity
15.)West Liberty Salem
Monday, December 1, 2008
The Brinn 15: Week One, Division Three
1. South Euclid Regina
2. Casstown Miami East
3. Versailles
4. Oak Hill
5. Marion Pleasant
6. Sugarcreek Garaway
7. Findlay Liberty Benton
8. Haviland Wayne Trace
9. Mt Blanchard Riverdale
10. Middletown Madison
11. Atwater Waterloo
12. West Liberty Salem
13. Metamora Evergreen
14. South Point
15. Garfield Heights Trinity
2. Casstown Miami East
3. Versailles
4. Oak Hill
5. Marion Pleasant
6. Sugarcreek Garaway
7. Findlay Liberty Benton
8. Haviland Wayne Trace
9. Mt Blanchard Riverdale
10. Middletown Madison
11. Atwater Waterloo
12. West Liberty Salem
13. Metamora Evergreen
14. South Point
15. Garfield Heights Trinity
The Brinn 15: Week One, Division Four
1. Columbus Africentric
2. Convoy Crestview
3. Berlin Hiland
4. Minster
5. Waterford
6. Beford St Peter Chanel
7. Cleveland Heights Lutheran East
8. New Riegel
9. New Bremen
10. Delphos St Johns
11. South Webster
12. Mogadore
13. Fostoria St Wendelin
14. Kalida
15. Ft Loramie
2. Convoy Crestview
3. Berlin Hiland
4. Minster
5. Waterford
6. Beford St Peter Chanel
7. Cleveland Heights Lutheran East
8. New Riegel
9. New Bremen
10. Delphos St Johns
11. South Webster
12. Mogadore
13. Fostoria St Wendelin
14. Kalida
15. Ft Loramie
Friday, November 28, 2008
The Brinn 15: Week One, Division Two
1. Lima Bath
2. Kettering Archbishop Alter
3. Tipp City Tippecanoe
4. Hathaway Brown
5. Akron Hoban
6. Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit
7. Warsaw River View
8. Millersburg West Holmes
9. Akron SVSM
10. Indian Lake
11. Colonel Crawford
12. Salem
13. Bucyrus
14. Lexington
15. Miami Trace
2. Kettering Archbishop Alter
3. Tipp City Tippecanoe
4. Hathaway Brown
5. Akron Hoban
6. Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit
7. Warsaw River View
8. Millersburg West Holmes
9. Akron SVSM
10. Indian Lake
11. Colonel Crawford
12. Salem
13. Bucyrus
14. Lexington
15. Miami Trace
The Brinn 15: Week One, Division One
1. Beavercreek
2. Lakota West
3. Pickerington North
4. Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame
5. North Canton Hoover
6. Cincinnati Princeton
7. Anthony Wayne
8. Shaker Heights
9. Kettering Fairmont
10. Toledo Start
11. Dublin Scioto
12. Youngstown Boardman
13. Toledo Central Catholic
14. Vandalia Butler
15. Sylvania Northview
2. Lakota West
3. Pickerington North
4. Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame
5. North Canton Hoover
6. Cincinnati Princeton
7. Anthony Wayne
8. Shaker Heights
9. Kettering Fairmont
10. Toledo Start
11. Dublin Scioto
12. Youngstown Boardman
13. Toledo Central Catholic
14. Vandalia Butler
15. Sylvania Northview
Saturday, November 15, 2008
GIRLS' HOOPS COMING SOON!
So we are taking a break between seasons and doing our research on girls' basketball teams throughout the state of Ohio to bring you our unique brand of Ohio Girls' High School Sports! Our preseason CAPTAIN BRINN TOP 20 Rankings for girls' basketball will be posted before the season tips off next weekend. Watch for that. In the meantime, communicate with us about your favorite team, their players to watch, coaches, expectations, good games, etc.
EMAIL US at captainbrinn@gmail.com
JOIN THE SOCIAL COMMUNITY at http://cbohiovarsity.ning.com
EMAIL US at captainbrinn@gmail.com
JOIN THE SOCIAL COMMUNITY at http://cbohiovarsity.ning.com
Sunday, November 9, 2008
CBOHIO VARSITY VOLLEYBALL HONORS
DI Coach of the Year--Dawn Moses, Olmsted Falls
DI Player of the Year--Lauren Whyte, Olmsted Falls
DII Coach of the Year--Tony Messina, Parma Padua Franciscan
DII Player of the Year--Kaitlyn Leary, Parma Padua Franciscan
DIII Coach of the Year--Bradd Jeffers, Albany Alexander
DIII Player of the Year--Kara Koch, Northwestern High
DIV Coach of the Year--Amy Steininger, Marion Local
DIV Player of the Year--Alyssa Winner, Marion Local
CHAMPIONS CROWNED
Here are our observations of a great weekend of Ohio High School Volleyball in Dayton this past weekend:
DIVISION ONE:
What a shocker it was to watch #1 Cincinnati Ursuline go down, and in the fashion they did. Ursuline embarrassed #3 Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame in their semi-final and looked like a well-oiled machine. #2 Olmsted Falls easily handled #10 Brecksville-Broadview Heights in their semi-final, but that was no surprise. And, OF did not look they would be quite able to keep up with Ursuline based on their level of play in their semi. But the final was a classic, which began with an Ursuline rally that led to the longest single game in state tournament history, with OF pulling out a 39-37 win. The play of Olmsted's White was incredible to say the least, as well! She was dominant. It was strange to see a GGCL team turned on their heels. They were literally in shock after the match, as was most of the crowd, who had seen Cincy Catholic teams win the title every since 1998 except once in 2004.
DIVISION TWO:
#4 Parma Padua Franciscan was the deserving champion in the drama-free D2 division. The games were not that exciting, with Padua winning a four-gamer against #19 Alter. I thought #6 Columbus Bishop Hartley was a lot better than many gave them credit for and would have liked to have seen them push Alter to a fifth game in the semi-final, which should of happened before an Alter comeback. Mansfield Madison was disappointing, but they should be a contender next season. They were young and couldn't handle Padua's methodical, consistent level of play.
DIVISION THREE:
This division ended up being a complete surprise with the ease of #2 Albany Alexander winning the title. First they defeated #14 Versailles in three hotly-contested games in their semi-final and then easily handed #6 Gilmour Academy defeat in the D3 Championship match. The most excitement (or lack their of) came from Gilmour's incredible dominance of #1 Lima Central Catholic in the semi-finals.
DIVISION FOUR:
#2 Newark Catholic and #5 Marion Local had a classic back-and-forth semi-final match. Newark Catholic, though ranked higher than ML, had to be considered the underdog against the defending champions. They almost pulled it out, but fell 15-12 in the final game. For #1 Jackson Center, they advanced easily against #9 Buckeye Central, who has several young players with tremendous potential. While JC pulled out game one, Marion Local controlled the rest and claimed their second straight title. They also return nearly their entire team and are so young, we may see a new Hopewell-Loudon developing in D4.
DIVISION ONE:
What a shocker it was to watch #1 Cincinnati Ursuline go down, and in the fashion they did. Ursuline embarrassed #3 Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame in their semi-final and looked like a well-oiled machine. #2 Olmsted Falls easily handled #10 Brecksville-Broadview Heights in their semi-final, but that was no surprise. And, OF did not look they would be quite able to keep up with Ursuline based on their level of play in their semi. But the final was a classic, which began with an Ursuline rally that led to the longest single game in state tournament history, with OF pulling out a 39-37 win. The play of Olmsted's White was incredible to say the least, as well! She was dominant. It was strange to see a GGCL team turned on their heels. They were literally in shock after the match, as was most of the crowd, who had seen Cincy Catholic teams win the title every since 1998 except once in 2004.
DIVISION TWO:
#4 Parma Padua Franciscan was the deserving champion in the drama-free D2 division. The games were not that exciting, with Padua winning a four-gamer against #19 Alter. I thought #6 Columbus Bishop Hartley was a lot better than many gave them credit for and would have liked to have seen them push Alter to a fifth game in the semi-final, which should of happened before an Alter comeback. Mansfield Madison was disappointing, but they should be a contender next season. They were young and couldn't handle Padua's methodical, consistent level of play.
DIVISION THREE:
This division ended up being a complete surprise with the ease of #2 Albany Alexander winning the title. First they defeated #14 Versailles in three hotly-contested games in their semi-final and then easily handed #6 Gilmour Academy defeat in the D3 Championship match. The most excitement (or lack their of) came from Gilmour's incredible dominance of #1 Lima Central Catholic in the semi-finals.
DIVISION FOUR:
#2 Newark Catholic and #5 Marion Local had a classic back-and-forth semi-final match. Newark Catholic, though ranked higher than ML, had to be considered the underdog against the defending champions. They almost pulled it out, but fell 15-12 in the final game. For #1 Jackson Center, they advanced easily against #9 Buckeye Central, who has several young players with tremendous potential. While JC pulled out game one, Marion Local controlled the rest and claimed their second straight title. They also return nearly their entire team and are so young, we may see a new Hopewell-Loudon developing in D4.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
BATTLE RAGING!
#1 Cincinnati Ursuline is getting all they can handle and more from the state's #2 D1 team Olmsted Falls. Game one was a classic, 40-minute back-and-forth that Olmsted pulled out 39-37. Ursuline won game two in easier fashion 25-16, but now Olmsted Falls has regained the momentum and captured game three 25-21! What a classic D1 match! We may see the GGCL and private schools' reign of D1 end today! Lots more volleyball to be played, however.
D2 Goes To Padua Franciscan
Alter had tradition going for them, but Parma Padua Franciscan has sheer talent and a better game plan that led it to its first state vollyeball championship today. Padua Franciscan won the Division 2 State Championship over Kettering Archbishop Alter 25-22, 26-24, 17-25, 25-21.
Division 3 coming up next!
Division 3 coming up next!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
TOURNEY TWEETS
If you need a way to stay updated with all the action from the state volleyball tournament starting tomorrow, Captain Brinn's people will be using Twitter to microblog updates throughout the event. Scores, observations, analysis...all in 140 characters or less! Don't know about Twitter? Well, over 5 million people have figured it out. It's easy. It's free. Here's what you need to do to follow our updates or "Tweets" as they are called:
Step #1-Visit http://twitter.com/captbrn
Step #2-Sign-up for a free Twitter profile and handle. It's real quick to do.
Step #3-Follow us. We are captbrn or @captbrn officially.
Step #4-Our tweets will be streamed via Twitter.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
NEWARK CATHOLIC'S FORMULA FOR SUCCESS
Probably more than any other sport in the state of Ohio, volleyball has displayed dynastic qualities. From Cincinnati St. Ursula's incredible run of six straight D2 titles and two more in D1 in the course of a decade to the small-school powerhouses like Hopewell-Loudon (five titles in as many years) and St. Henry's six titles and dominant control of the Midwest Athletic Conference, Ohio High School Volleyball is all about the dynasties, those programs that perform year-after-year. One of the best known and most consistent is a small Catholic school in Newark, Ohio. From 1979-1984 Newark Catholic won five titles. They added three more in 1988, 1989, and 2004. On Friday, Newark Catholic will make their 13th state final four appearance and attempt to win their ninth volleyball crown. "I love coaching at Newark Catholic," said head coach Jeri Helfer. "I tell people all of the time from the outside looking in you can’t understand it, but from the inside looking out I can’t explain it. It is generations of Newark Catholic coming back to raise their kids here, and support the school and athletics. We have seven kids on our varsity roster whose parents graduated from NC. Every kid on our varsity team came up through the elementary schools. That’s building a family."
It's that family-focused, kids-first attitude that Helfer claims is the formula for such consistency of one of the state's finest volleyball programs. Helfer knows the formula well, having been a part of it as a player in high school. Her volleyball career took her from being a player in NC's program to a player at Capital University. Since her playing days, it has been coaching the game that has been a passion of hers.
"I was an assistant coach at Otterbein College for seven years, have been the head coach at NC for nine years, I coached JO’s at Westerville VBC for eight years, and started New Wave VBC eight years ago," offered Helfer.
Of course, for Helfer, her family and their support and inspiration helps foster a continued family atmosphere in Newark Catholic's program.
"My nine-year old niece, Megan, is about to be the ball girl at my fourth Final Four. My sister, and her mom, Joni, just finished coaching Megan in her first year of volleyball, and they won the championship! My mom comes to almost all of our games, and the kids just love Mama Helfer being around. My brother, Michael, is the men’s basketball coach at Valdosta State University in Georgia, so he and I text quite a bit back & forth about coaching challenges in general. He is my real sounding board. He’s just starting his season, but still hangs on to every match we have up here." Not only is Helfer's family heavily involved and supportive of her efforts in maintaining the excellence that has been presence within the Newark Catholic program since the 70's, but her coaching staff, some of which are part of NC's rich tradition, help keep the program going. "I couldn’t do this without great assistants. My varsity assistant, Ken Fehrman, brings so much to the table. He loves volleyball, and is always challenging me to think outside the box. He pushes the kids in practice, and they love the challenge. My JV coach, Stacey Smith, played at NC back in the day too, so she completely understands the philosophy of developing all the kids and does a great job with it. She helps me all summer long when we have morning lifting or open gyms. She is always there to help ease my burden I put on myself! Our freshmen coach, Joan Strawn, does so much for the kids. Her season has been finished for almost a month, and yet she’s busy this week with her team decorating varsity cars & bedrooms, making goodie bags, and helping feed the team. All of my assistants are amazing!" Newark Catholic has experienced much success in Helfer's tenure at the helm. Her teams boast a 183-39 record in nine seasons, including trips to state in 2004, 2005, 2007, and this year. In 2004 Newark Catholic won a five-game thriller in the semi-finals (17-15 in the fifth game) against Westfall and then beat Rocky River Lutheran West to claim NC's first state title since 1989. In 2005, the school moved to Division 4, returned to state where they lost a heartbreaker in the title game to Sidney Lehman Catholic. Last season, the program returned to the Division 4 Final Four, where they faced a dominant Marion Local squad and lost in three. This season, Helfer and her crew will seek to avenge that loss in a rematch with Marion Local in Friday's semi-final match, which will feature a Marion Local squad that lost most of their players from last year's championship squad. However, Helfer knows that the competition Marion Local faced all season has prepared them well. "I know they are very good again! They have been challenged every day in their league, so we can’t say their young anymore. They play great competition over there that prepares them for the state tourney all fall. They have the same tough defense as last year. They aren’t as tall, but they have some very solid young smart hitters," Helfer offered. "We are trying to fine tune everything this week. Making sure that we are all on the same page, and ready to play. We don’t have a 'horse' per se. We are very balanced, and that makes it more exciting. The team and parents are so focused on team success rather than any individual success it makes it great." For Newark Catholic's fans, getting to the state volleyball tournament is something of a ritual from year-to-year. It is the support of the parents and fans within the school district that Helfer counts on from year-to-year, and something she explains they will need when they face the Flyers on Friday. "We have outstanding fans beginning with our second row dads! They are so much fun," said Helfer. "Unfortunately, our football team didn’t make the playoffs this year, so that will bring even more NC faithful to the Nutter Center this year, and we’ll need every one of them." While its not a new experience for Coach Helfer and her staff, going to the Nutter Center, playing in front of their fans, and having the kids in the spotlight is something that never gets old. "For young players to go to the Nutter Center to get to play is such a thrill for them. The staff at the Nutter Center are so great to work with, and really make the kids feel like they are the stars of the show," exclaimed Helfer.
After all, it is the kids, the players that matter most to her, her staff, and the Newark Catholic family. It is the family atmosphere and hard work that have kept NC in the mix for four decades now, according to Helfer.
"I work hard as the head coach. I make sure my kids are prepared for every season both mentally and physically. We stay in touch with our younger kids in the elementary school programs making sure they know we want them to succeed on their YMCA teams. Most of all I make sure that all of our kids know that I care about them, and want them to be successful on and off the volleyball court." It is a mix of hard work, dedication and fun that the staff at NC values most. "I believe in working hard, but having fun while you do it," said Helfer. "I like to include everyone I possibly can, hate to cut or keep kids down, and hope that I can teach life lessons along the way." So no matter what happens Friday when they face Marion Local, Helfer knows that the tradition and pride that makes Newark Catholic's volleyball program one of those dynasties in Ohio, will carry on for generations to come because of her committment and the commitment of her players and their families. "The kids are willing to work like none other. They put so much time and effort into NC volleyball for years. They believe in it, and believe in themselves. They have been brought up in Newark Catholic families who are several generations of Green Wave, and there is so much pride in being a part of it." It is a formula for success that began brewing in the 1970's and one that seemingly will continue for years to come.
Newark Catholic was ranked #2 in Captain Brinn's final poll this season and will face #5 Marion Local at noon on Friday in The Nutter Center on the campus of Wright State University. #1 Jackson Center and #9 Buckeye Central are the other D4 teams at the final four.
CBOHIO VARSITY STATE FINAL FOUR PREVIEW
Here's our guide to the state final four starting tomorrow, along with our prediction for how it will all turn out:
DIVISION TWO
Match #1-Parma Padua Franciscan (24-3) v. Mansfield Madison Comprehensive (26-2)
The storyline: Padua Franciscan came out of nowhere over the summer to earn some preseason hype and they lived up to it. For Madison Comprehensive, their a brand name in the volleyball world, a traditionally strong program that has state tournament success to boast--they won the D1 title in 1997. Madison has wins over several ranked opponents this year, including Orrville and Bowling Green, with their losses coming against ranked Orrville and ranked Findlay. For Padua Franciscan they clearly faced the tougher schedule and own wins over ranked teams like Holy Name, Walsh Jesuit (twice), Lake Catholic (twice), Mentor and Huron with losses to Magnificat, Lake Catholic, and Holy Name.
Our prediction: Look for this to be an evenly matched semi-final with no clear favorite. Both teams have shown moments of weakness and neither are dominant. Madison Comprehensive is young and that youth may not respond well to the big stage of the state tournament, though a strong win against Celina in regional finals makes us give them the edge in this semi-final.
Our pick: Mansfield Madison Comprehensive
Match #2-Kettering Archbishop Alter (19-7) v. Columbus Bishop Hartley (22-5)
The storyline: Alter turned D2 on its ear when it defeated #1 Tippecanoe in regional semi-finals. A seven loss Alter team is not the norm, but no one can claim it's a real shock. Alter plays in the GGCL, has one of the best programs in the state, and has won multiple state titles this decade. For Bishop Hartley they are returning to state for the second consecutive year. Last season they defeated Tippecanoe in a real battle in the semi-finals before falling to Toledo Central Catholic in the championship. They have no significant wins this season, really, except Roger Bacon and Salem, but they fell to Bishop Watterson three times this season, along with Pickerington North and Wooster Triway.
Our prediction: Don't expect Hartley to go away easily, but don't look for them to be able to defeat Alter, who seemed to find their groove in the tournament. Alter's tough schedule prepares them for the big games like this and they will be an intimidating force.
Our pick: Alter
Championship Match: Mansfield Madison Comprehensive v. Kettering Archbishop Alter
Our pick: Kettering Archbishop Alter
Your pick: Kettering Archbishop Alter with 68% support from our readers!
DIVISION ONE
Match #3-Olmsted Falls (27-0) v. Brecksville-Broadsview Heights (21-4)
The storyline: Olmsted Falls has had hype surrounding them all season long and features a talented team trying to become the first non-private school to win a title in many years. They have played a pretty tough schedule and have come through it unscathed, although they barely survived a test from TSUA in regional semi-finals. They have wins against TSUA (twice), Walsh Jesuit, and Rocky River Magnificat, to name a few, but most significantly, the hold two wins over their competition in this match. They've beaten Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. twice already. With that said, BBH did not compete strongly against Olmsted Falls in those regular season matches, though now anything is possible. BBH was one of the suprises of the season, ascending to #10 in our poll with wins over Holy Name, Stow Munroe-Falls, and Cloverleaf.
Our prediction: If the team that struggled against TSUA in regionals shows up, then BBH might be able to put a scare into Olmsted Falls. However, OF is the clear favorite and should roll on to the title match.
Our pick: Olmsted Falls
Match #4-Cincinnati Ursuline (27-0) v. Cincinnati Mount Notre Dame (23-4)
The storyline: We couldn't ask for a better matchup than this one. The third meeting between GGCL rivals! Ursuline defeated MND in four during their first meeting of the season, but in the second meeting, it was a significant battle, with Ursuline holding on for an 18-16 fifth game finish. Both teams feature the signature, tradition-rich, and collegiate-level of play with strong fan bases that provide for some of the best atmosphere at the tournament. Both teams also play brutal schedules during the season and are used to whatever the other brings to the court.
Our prediction: Look for an all-out war. MND has the advantage of having been to the state final four the past four seasons, including being champs in 2006 and runners-up last season. Coach Donna Mechley is also the more experienced coach out of the two, having won titles with MND in 95, 98, 99, 00, and 06. Ursuline's program is no slouch, winning it last in 2002, but this is the first appearance at Ursuline for Coach Case.
Our pick: Close, but we are going with #1 Cincinnati Ursuline
Championship Match: Cincinnati Ursuline v. Olmsted Falls
Our pick: Cincinnati Ursuline
Your pick: Cincinnati Ursuline with 73% of our readers' votes!
DIVISION FOUR
Match #5-Newark Catholic (26-1) vs. Marion Local (24-3)
The storyline: This is a rematch of last season's state semi-final, which Marion Local ran away with 25-9, 25-13, 25-14. Marion Local lost a lot off of last year's team and aren't nearly as tall, but they are still strong, and they have been tested. They had to get through a favored New Bremen team in a five-game battle in district semi's and almost lost to MAC rival Ft. Recovery in sectionals. They won the vaunted Convoy Crestview Invite this season, a primer for the state tournament, where they defeated Celina for the title and won against Milan Edison. They also beat St. Henry twice, Lehman Catholic, Parkway, Anna, and Minster. For Newark Catholic, they've had a strong showing this season, though cannot boast a win list like ML. They only have one loss and claimed signature wins over Heath (twice), Big Walnut, Anthony Wayne, Tuscarawas Central Catholic, and South Webster. Their only loss was to Milan Edison, the only common opponent they share with Marion Local.
Our prediction: This won't be an easy three-game win for Marion Local like last season as the landscape of the teams has completely changed. Marion Local struggled early in the tournament before having an easy regional path. They are vulnerable. Still, Newark Catholic will be facing a daunting task against a tested MAC opponent where blocking and defense usually drive non-MAC teams crazy.
Our pick: Marion Local
Match #6-Buckeye Central (25-2) vs. Jackson Center (26-1)
The storyline: Jackson Center is making their second consecutive appearance at the final four, while Buckeye Central has found its way back for the first time since back-to-back trips in 2000 and 2001. Buckeye Central, while tradition-rich, has been the surprise team of the season and handed #3 Norwalk St. Paul a shocking defeat in district finals, denying NSP another round in the final four. Their losses are suspect--Riverdale and Hopewell-Loudon. Their wins and their schedule is weak with no big wins, although they have to be decent to beat NSP in four. For Jackson Center, they are a favorite for the title, easily. Their only loss, a close battle with #1 in D3, L.C.C. Wins? Anna (twice), Marion Local, New Bremen.
Our prediction: While BC may have beaten NSP, Jackson Center is playing well, is highly talented, and is tested from their regular season schedule. JC should dominate this match.
Our pick: Jackson Center
Championship Match: Jackson Center vs. Marion Local
Our pick: Marion Local
Your pick: Jackson Center has 44% of our readers' votes, with ML close behind at 37%.
DIVISION THREE
Match #7-Lima Central Catholic (25-1) vs. Gilmour Academy (26-1)
The storyline: LCC is back to defend the D3 title they won last season. They had to survive a strong challenge from St. Henry in regional finals, winning in five, although St. Henry's best player went out after the first play in game one, leading us to believe St. Henry may have rolled to a win. Regardless, they are back and they are tough, but maybe not as tough as last season. They can showcase impressive wins over teams like Milan Edison, Jackson Center, Convoy Crestview, Columbus Grove, Lehman Catholic, Anna, Heath and of course St. Henry. Their only loss was to another state team, Kettering Archbishop Alter. Gilmour Academy will bring state experience to the table as well since they were here last season too. They lost a heartbreaker to Albany Alexander, 16-14, in the fifth game. They might be flying under the radar. Their one loss came against Wooster, while they boast wins against Berkshire (three times), New Middletown Springfield, Walsh Jesuit, Tiffin Columbian, and won a thriller against #3 West Salem Northwestern, 15-13, in their regional final.
Our prediction: This one could be close and we could see an upset. Gilmour Academy won't be nervous since they were there last year and all the pressure is on LCC to repeat. While LCC played a much tougher regular season schedule, Gilmour proved to be steady all season long.
Our pick: Lima Central Catholic
Match #8-Albany Alexander (26-1) v. Versailles (21-7)
The storyline: Versailles had an identity crisis most of the season. They couldn't decide if they wanted to be a top-echelon team, but they must have decided to when tourney season came along. Playing in the always-tough MAC, Versailles won only three matches, losing to teams they shouldn't have lost to. Still, they can highlight their win over Marion Local this season, as well as other wins against tough teams like Fort Recovery, Columbus Bishop Ready, Delphos St. John's, and Lehman Catholic. Alexander can boast about a lot more. They lost to Celina early-on, but haven't lost since, claiming wins along the way that included St. Henry, Wooster Triway, Warsaw River View, Frankfort Adena, and Marion Pleasant. They are making their third consecutive trip to the state final four and lost last season to LCC in the championship.
Our prediction: Alexander should be able to defeat Versailles in their semi-final, though Alexander's own coach (see our story feature on Alexander) admits that Versailles' conference better prepares them for this match. Versailles will block and play strong defense and be very athletic. That will keep them in this match.
Our pick: Albany Alexander
Championship Match: Albany Alexander vs. Lima Central Catholic
Our pick: Albany Alexander
Your pick: LCC gets a dominant 55% of our readers' votes, with Alexander at 23%.
DIVISION TWO
Match #1-Parma Padua Franciscan (24-3) v. Mansfield Madison Comprehensive (26-2)
The storyline: Padua Franciscan came out of nowhere over the summer to earn some preseason hype and they lived up to it. For Madison Comprehensive, their a brand name in the volleyball world, a traditionally strong program that has state tournament success to boast--they won the D1 title in 1997. Madison has wins over several ranked opponents this year, including Orrville and Bowling Green, with their losses coming against ranked Orrville and ranked Findlay. For Padua Franciscan they clearly faced the tougher schedule and own wins over ranked teams like Holy Name, Walsh Jesuit (twice), Lake Catholic (twice), Mentor and Huron with losses to Magnificat, Lake Catholic, and Holy Name.
Our prediction: Look for this to be an evenly matched semi-final with no clear favorite. Both teams have shown moments of weakness and neither are dominant. Madison Comprehensive is young and that youth may not respond well to the big stage of the state tournament, though a strong win against Celina in regional finals makes us give them the edge in this semi-final.
Our pick: Mansfield Madison Comprehensive
Match #2-Kettering Archbishop Alter (19-7) v. Columbus Bishop Hartley (22-5)
The storyline: Alter turned D2 on its ear when it defeated #1 Tippecanoe in regional semi-finals. A seven loss Alter team is not the norm, but no one can claim it's a real shock. Alter plays in the GGCL, has one of the best programs in the state, and has won multiple state titles this decade. For Bishop Hartley they are returning to state for the second consecutive year. Last season they defeated Tippecanoe in a real battle in the semi-finals before falling to Toledo Central Catholic in the championship. They have no significant wins this season, really, except Roger Bacon and Salem, but they fell to Bishop Watterson three times this season, along with Pickerington North and Wooster Triway.
Our prediction: Don't expect Hartley to go away easily, but don't look for them to be able to defeat Alter, who seemed to find their groove in the tournament. Alter's tough schedule prepares them for the big games like this and they will be an intimidating force.
Our pick: Alter
Championship Match: Mansfield Madison Comprehensive v. Kettering Archbishop Alter
Our pick: Kettering Archbishop Alter
Your pick: Kettering Archbishop Alter with 68% support from our readers!
DIVISION ONE
Match #3-Olmsted Falls (27-0) v. Brecksville-Broadsview Heights (21-4)
The storyline: Olmsted Falls has had hype surrounding them all season long and features a talented team trying to become the first non-private school to win a title in many years. They have played a pretty tough schedule and have come through it unscathed, although they barely survived a test from TSUA in regional semi-finals. They have wins against TSUA (twice), Walsh Jesuit, and Rocky River Magnificat, to name a few, but most significantly, the hold two wins over their competition in this match. They've beaten Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. twice already. With that said, BBH did not compete strongly against Olmsted Falls in those regular season matches, though now anything is possible. BBH was one of the suprises of the season, ascending to #10 in our poll with wins over Holy Name, Stow Munroe-Falls, and Cloverleaf.
Our prediction: If the team that struggled against TSUA in regionals shows up, then BBH might be able to put a scare into Olmsted Falls. However, OF is the clear favorite and should roll on to the title match.
Our pick: Olmsted Falls
Match #4-Cincinnati Ursuline (27-0) v. Cincinnati Mount Notre Dame (23-4)
The storyline: We couldn't ask for a better matchup than this one. The third meeting between GGCL rivals! Ursuline defeated MND in four during their first meeting of the season, but in the second meeting, it was a significant battle, with Ursuline holding on for an 18-16 fifth game finish. Both teams feature the signature, tradition-rich, and collegiate-level of play with strong fan bases that provide for some of the best atmosphere at the tournament. Both teams also play brutal schedules during the season and are used to whatever the other brings to the court.
Our prediction: Look for an all-out war. MND has the advantage of having been to the state final four the past four seasons, including being champs in 2006 and runners-up last season. Coach Donna Mechley is also the more experienced coach out of the two, having won titles with MND in 95, 98, 99, 00, and 06. Ursuline's program is no slouch, winning it last in 2002, but this is the first appearance at Ursuline for Coach Case.
Our pick: Close, but we are going with #1 Cincinnati Ursuline
Championship Match: Cincinnati Ursuline v. Olmsted Falls
Our pick: Cincinnati Ursuline
Your pick: Cincinnati Ursuline with 73% of our readers' votes!
DIVISION FOUR
Match #5-Newark Catholic (26-1) vs. Marion Local (24-3)
The storyline: This is a rematch of last season's state semi-final, which Marion Local ran away with 25-9, 25-13, 25-14. Marion Local lost a lot off of last year's team and aren't nearly as tall, but they are still strong, and they have been tested. They had to get through a favored New Bremen team in a five-game battle in district semi's and almost lost to MAC rival Ft. Recovery in sectionals. They won the vaunted Convoy Crestview Invite this season, a primer for the state tournament, where they defeated Celina for the title and won against Milan Edison. They also beat St. Henry twice, Lehman Catholic, Parkway, Anna, and Minster. For Newark Catholic, they've had a strong showing this season, though cannot boast a win list like ML. They only have one loss and claimed signature wins over Heath (twice), Big Walnut, Anthony Wayne, Tuscarawas Central Catholic, and South Webster. Their only loss was to Milan Edison, the only common opponent they share with Marion Local.
Our prediction: This won't be an easy three-game win for Marion Local like last season as the landscape of the teams has completely changed. Marion Local struggled early in the tournament before having an easy regional path. They are vulnerable. Still, Newark Catholic will be facing a daunting task against a tested MAC opponent where blocking and defense usually drive non-MAC teams crazy.
Our pick: Marion Local
Match #6-Buckeye Central (25-2) vs. Jackson Center (26-1)
The storyline: Jackson Center is making their second consecutive appearance at the final four, while Buckeye Central has found its way back for the first time since back-to-back trips in 2000 and 2001. Buckeye Central, while tradition-rich, has been the surprise team of the season and handed #3 Norwalk St. Paul a shocking defeat in district finals, denying NSP another round in the final four. Their losses are suspect--Riverdale and Hopewell-Loudon. Their wins and their schedule is weak with no big wins, although they have to be decent to beat NSP in four. For Jackson Center, they are a favorite for the title, easily. Their only loss, a close battle with #1 in D3, L.C.C. Wins? Anna (twice), Marion Local, New Bremen.
Our prediction: While BC may have beaten NSP, Jackson Center is playing well, is highly talented, and is tested from their regular season schedule. JC should dominate this match.
Our pick: Jackson Center
Championship Match: Jackson Center vs. Marion Local
Our pick: Marion Local
Your pick: Jackson Center has 44% of our readers' votes, with ML close behind at 37%.
DIVISION THREE
Match #7-Lima Central Catholic (25-1) vs. Gilmour Academy (26-1)
The storyline: LCC is back to defend the D3 title they won last season. They had to survive a strong challenge from St. Henry in regional finals, winning in five, although St. Henry's best player went out after the first play in game one, leading us to believe St. Henry may have rolled to a win. Regardless, they are back and they are tough, but maybe not as tough as last season. They can showcase impressive wins over teams like Milan Edison, Jackson Center, Convoy Crestview, Columbus Grove, Lehman Catholic, Anna, Heath and of course St. Henry. Their only loss was to another state team, Kettering Archbishop Alter. Gilmour Academy will bring state experience to the table as well since they were here last season too. They lost a heartbreaker to Albany Alexander, 16-14, in the fifth game. They might be flying under the radar. Their one loss came against Wooster, while they boast wins against Berkshire (three times), New Middletown Springfield, Walsh Jesuit, Tiffin Columbian, and won a thriller against #3 West Salem Northwestern, 15-13, in their regional final.
Our prediction: This one could be close and we could see an upset. Gilmour Academy won't be nervous since they were there last year and all the pressure is on LCC to repeat. While LCC played a much tougher regular season schedule, Gilmour proved to be steady all season long.
Our pick: Lima Central Catholic
Match #8-Albany Alexander (26-1) v. Versailles (21-7)
The storyline: Versailles had an identity crisis most of the season. They couldn't decide if they wanted to be a top-echelon team, but they must have decided to when tourney season came along. Playing in the always-tough MAC, Versailles won only three matches, losing to teams they shouldn't have lost to. Still, they can highlight their win over Marion Local this season, as well as other wins against tough teams like Fort Recovery, Columbus Bishop Ready, Delphos St. John's, and Lehman Catholic. Alexander can boast about a lot more. They lost to Celina early-on, but haven't lost since, claiming wins along the way that included St. Henry, Wooster Triway, Warsaw River View, Frankfort Adena, and Marion Pleasant. They are making their third consecutive trip to the state final four and lost last season to LCC in the championship.
Our prediction: Alexander should be able to defeat Versailles in their semi-final, though Alexander's own coach (see our story feature on Alexander) admits that Versailles' conference better prepares them for this match. Versailles will block and play strong defense and be very athletic. That will keep them in this match.
Our pick: Albany Alexander
Championship Match: Albany Alexander vs. Lima Central Catholic
Our pick: Albany Alexander
Your pick: LCC gets a dominant 55% of our readers' votes, with Alexander at 23%.
TOMORROW!
The OHSAA State Volleyball Final Four begins tomorrow in Wright State University's Nutter Center in Dayton. The Division 1 and Division 2 semi's will take place tomorrow, where the marquee matchup of the day will happen at when #1 Cincinnati Ursuline takes on GGCL rival #3 Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame at 6 p.m. Division 2 should feature some good matches as no clear favorite is present in the D2 Final Four, although Alter is favored by our blog readers in our polls off to the right. Later today, we at Captain Brinn will be posting our state final four preview and predictions.
STAY TUNED....
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
CAST YOUR VOTE!
In keeping with the spirit and excitement of Election Night tonight, we invite you to vote for who you think will win the state titles in each division. The polls are to your right. Exercise your right to vote!
Monday, November 3, 2008
ALEXANDER RISING!
Albany Alexander Hopes Third Time's A Charm
Growing up in southeastern Ohio, no one would have expected Bradd Jeffers to be taking the Albany Alexander girls volleyball team to the state final four for the third consecutive year. After all, Coach Jeffers grew up very poor and worked on a beef farm in his native southeastern Ohio home. Now, in only his sixth season at Alexander High School, the Spartans are primed and ready to capture that elusive Division III crown. Currently, the Spartans boast an impressive 26-1 record with their only hiccup coming to DII Regional Finalist Celina. The Spartans ripped through their sectional, district, and regional, and in fact, have not even been pushed to a fourth set in months. Simply speaking, Albany Alexander is on fire and still peaking. Alexander returns twelve of their fourteen players from a season ago when they fell in four sets in the state championship game to Lima Central Catholic.
Coach Jeffers knows how tough his next opponent is—that opponent is MAC representative Versailles (21-7).
“All I know is they are very big. They run a 6-2 and set it low outside. It is very hard for us to get info on teams. Nobody in our conference plays anyone at all so we are on our own,” states Jeffers.
“We play very fast and serve very hard. People know that but it is very hard to replicate in practice if your team can’t do it. We will be playing against some 6”4 men this week. I can promise you that. It is much easier to replicate size than speed in my opinion.”
Versailles is a very strong opponent, but Alexander has great experience and a great coaching staff and fan support behind them.
“We are a small community, the people in our community really get behind and support the kids,” offers Jeffers.
“Genetically we are quite small and not the most athletic. (We are) Probably the opposite of the MAC schools or Shelby County. When someone has success the community really jumps on board and supports the kids. We appreciate it!”
Alexander has defeated some quality opponents such as St Henry, River View, Frankfort Adena, Amanda Clearcreek, and Wooster Triway.
The Spartans are wasting no time in preparation for upcoming power Versailles. Coach Jeffers admitted, “We never stop working on basics and will be going over all aspects of the game this week, we try to play very fast to make up for the lack of size. We will do some timing drills if Sara (Radekin, setter) gets back to the gym. Passing, passing, passing, passing, defense and serving also.”
He went on to add, “Our practices are extremely intense and very fast paced. We are using two nets most of the time with the varsity team. I believe 100% in quality and quantity reps, and we get a lot of them.”
Coach Jeffers also relies heavily on his assistant coaches for his practices and the upcoming Final Four.
“My assistants are very dedicated and put tons of time in. We take it very serious as do our players. I think that is what makes us successful at the level we are at. One coach cannot work with front/ back row/ blocking/ serving/ transition at the same time. We use all of our coaches and are very efficient.”
While the resume for Coach Jeffers may not be as experience rich as other coaches, he understands that volleyball is more than just a sport. It’s a life lesson all to achieve a common goal. In fact, maybe that is the missing ingredient for some. Jeffers proudly answers, “It has such a broad base as you know. Coaching involves so much more than the sport you are playing. I would say that we start with everything other than volleyball. We will seldom be the most talented team. We have never had a kid get even close to a Division I college look. We can however, consistently be the loudest, most focused, hardest working, best fundamental and disciplined team. That is what we try to do here at Alexander.”
His formula for success must be working. Now in his sixth season at Alexander, he has amassed a whopping 141-17 record, thus producing one of the most impressive program turnarounds Ohio has ever seen in such a short time. Jeffers explains, “It's America. If you are willing to work extremely hard and smart you can get to the top. We live in a great country and opportunity is everywhere, nothing is free that is worth having.”
He also added, “I could go into a long story about developing relationships and starting a club program in the worst area in the state for volleyball. It all boils down to hard work, keeping your eye on the prize and expecting more from these kids than everyone else has. I believe you will never get more than you expect from a young person, and you are cheating them if you settle for less than their best.”
Again, many would have never guessed Bradd Jeffers to be making yet another trek to the Nutter Center, and nor could he. He remembers being offered the junior high 8th grade position as no one wanted the job. Coach Jeffers took the job and went 14-2. Never before had he played organized volleyball nor coached. Following that stint, Alexander’s AD offered the varsity job to Coach Jeffers, much to his dismay. He states, “The next year the Varsity Coaching position was open again for the 4th consecutive year. The AD asked me to try it because no one applied. I refused several times stating that I knew nothing about the game. Eventually he wore me down and I said yes, there was simply nobody to coach.”
Fortunately for Coach Jeffers there was another soon to be star taking a head coaching position at the same time. Geoff Carlston was hired at Ohio University to head their women’s volleyball program.
“The next week Geoff was hired at OU. It took me about 30 seconds to get his number and make the contact. We have since grown to be great friends and he has been a huge influence on my life in many ways. I convinced his fiancé Sara Tibesar to help us that year and gave her half of my $2800 paycheck to help. She is today still one of my best friends. I also called Laura Smith at Adena and asked for help. She is an amazing person and helped me with many ideas. I started developing a summer program very similar to hers. The rest is history,” exuded Coach Jeffers.
Win or lose, Coach Jeffers is a diamond in the rough. He understands work ethic, discipline, morals, and understands his players.
“I love the kids. They give back so much. These girls are extremely hungry and hang on every word you say, trying to get a little better every single day. I have been blessed with kids that are so unselfish and totally team oriented. The best part of my day is walking into practice and working hard for two to for hours and knowing they will work just as hard as me and my staff and never complain for one second.”
Albany Alexander will take action against Versailles at the Nutter Center on Friday, November 7th at 6pm.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
THE FINAL FOUR!
It's finally set! The OHSAA State Volleyball Final Four has been set after today's lackluster regional finals provided little in the way of competition. In Division 1, the marquee match of the day between GGCL powerhouses Mother of Mercy and Mt. Notre Dame turned out to be a bust with Mt. Notre Dame rolling to a three game win. Ursuline, Olmsted Falls, and Brecksville-Broadsview Heights all advanced without much resistance.
In D2, Mansfield Madison returns to state and flew past Celina, who didn't put up much of a fight or play like they did against TCC. Parma Padua Franciscan blew past Mentor Lake Catholic, Bishop Hartley won easily over Big Walnut, and Kettering Alter won going away over Logan Elm.
D3 saw the best matches of the day. LCC was pushed to the limits by St. Henry, winning 15-11 in the fifth game. West Salem Northwestern and Gilmour Academy truly tested one another and in the end Gilmour simply was able to last longer winning 15-13 in the fifth. Versailles is going back to state after a four-game win against Middletown Bishop Fenwick and Albany Alexander, who we think may be D3's best, embarrassed Frankfort Adena in a three-game breeze-through.
In D4 there wasn't any real challenge, as Marion Local, Newark Catholic, and Jackson Center all return to the Nutter Center for the second consecutive year without any fight from the other teams they faced: Leipsic, South Webster, and Fort Loramie, respectively. Kidron Central Christian went down to Buckeye Central, but took the Buckettes to four games.
When it was all said and done, 8 teams that were at the state tourney last season are heading back.
STATE FINAL FOUR
Division One
#1 Cincinnati Ursuline v. #3 Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame
#2 Olmsted Falls v. #10 Brecksville-Broadsview Heights
Division Two
#2 Parma Padua Franciscan v. #4 Mansfield Madison Comprehensive
#8 Columbus Bishop Hartley v. #19 Kettering Archbishop Alter
Division Three
#1 Lima Central Catholic v. #6 Gates Gilmour Academy
#2 Albany Alexander v. #18 Versailles
Division Four
#5 Marion Local v. #2 Newark Catholic
#9 Buckeye Central v. #1 Jackson Center
Almost There
While we try to find the results of Mother of Mercy vs. Mt. Notre Dame and Alexander and Adena, two matches expected to be highly competitive, we do have most of the results and many more since our last posting several hours ago. We know that in D1 Brecksville-Broadsview Heights ousted Cloverleaf in four games. In D3 Versailles becomes the MAC's second representative at state this season after they toppled upstart Middletown Bishop Fenwick. Jackson Center did not let Fort Loramie get into the match at all in their D4 regional final and beat them in an easy three game match. Also in D4 Buckeye Central prevailed and returns to state for the first time in years after getting past Kidron Central Christian in four.
FULL FINAL FOUR RESULTS TO COME....
FULL FINAL FOUR RESULTS TO COME....
Final Four Filling Out
Well now we know at least one more team who will be joining Marion Local in Division 4: Newark Catholic. NC was there last year as well. These two will face each other next week at the state tournament. Newark Catholic was victorious over South Webster in three, 25-23, 25-21, 25-17. Gates Gilmour Academy will also return to state in D3 after a five-game thriller that saw them win against West Salem Northwestern 15-13 in the fifth game.
MORE TO COME...
MORE TO COME...
More Results
A couple more results to report. Olentangy was up big in game three and had a match point at 24-23, but couldn't topple #1 Cincinnati Ursuline to get back into the match. They dropped the first two games 25-18, 25-13. Along with Ursuline, #2 Olmsted Falls will join them in the final four for division one after defeating Magnificat 28-26, 26-24, 25-14.
MORE TO COME...
MORE TO COME...
First Results
Well what do we know so far? We have reports of five teams with their tickets punched and no surprises. In D3, Lima Central Catholic barely survived against St. Henry in a five game tussle that ended 15-11. LCC will advance to their second consecutive final four where they will attempt to defend their title.
In D2, Columbus Bishop Hartley and Parma Padua Franciscan both rolled over their opponents, Big Walnut and Mentor Lake Catholic, respectively. Mansfield Madison was taken to four games, but outlasted Celina.
D4 will also see their defending champ getting a chance to repeat as Marion Local made short work of Leipsic 25-11, 25-13, 25-18.
MORE TO COME...
In D2, Columbus Bishop Hartley and Parma Padua Franciscan both rolled over their opponents, Big Walnut and Mentor Lake Catholic, respectively. Mansfield Madison was taken to four games, but outlasted Celina.
D4 will also see their defending champ getting a chance to repeat as Marion Local made short work of Leipsic 25-11, 25-13, 25-18.
MORE TO COME...
THE PATH TO STATE!
For 32 teams tomorrow there is but one obstacle left in their pathway to the OHSAA State Volleyball Final Four. For some of them they've been down this road before, and while experience and tradition counts, there are no short-cuts once play begins. Here's our roadmap on what to watch for when all 16 matches get underway tomorrow:
In Division One: The Clear Favorite: Cincinnati Ursuline, the #1 team in this division, destroyed Marysville Thursday night to advance, and should breeze by #12 Olentangy, who shocked #4 Dublin Coffman in their semi-final. Olentangy will need a perfect match and an uncharacteristic performance from Ursuline.
The Underdog: Unproven Cloverleaf, ranked #25 in our final poll, advanced by upsetting #21 Mentor. They are unknown and lacking the tradition of other schools at this level, but facing off against #10 Brecksville-Broadsview Heights does not pose an impossible challenge.
Anyone's Guess: A repeat of last season's state final happens will be on display when two GGCL powerhouses face-off for the third time this season. In their previous meetings, #5 Cincinnati Mother of Mercy and #3 Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame split in five game thrillers. Needless to say, only one can return to state this season and there is no clear favorite.
Upset City: #2 Olmsted Falls had many thinking, including us, that they might be able to contend for the state title this season, ending the GGCL's chokehold on the crown. But a lackluster performance against a way-down Toledo St. Ursula team Thursday that almost found them on the losing end showcased the fact that they might not be all they appeared to be earlier in the season. #15 Rocky River Magnificat, seeking a return trip to the final four, might have enough in their arsenals to end Olmsted's dream season.
In Division Two: The Clear Favorite: #19 Kettering Archbishop Alter may not have had the best regular season, but when they rolled over #1 Tipp City Tippecanoe in their semi-final meeting, they proved to everyone that they are made for tourney season. The traditional powerhouse and GGCL team now moves into the role of favored status, especially against little known Logan Elm.
The Underdog: Speaking of Logan Elm, they came out of nowhere! At a respectable 21-4, their only semi-quality win of the season came against #26 Urbana in regional semi's, but now they face the daunting task of beating Alter.
Anyone's Guess: While #8 Bishop Hartley is our favorite to emerge, #11 Big Walnut is no slouch. The two teams met earlier in the season, with Hartley winning in three close games. Now, however, this one should be closer and either team could prevail. Same could be said for the match that pits #4 Parma Padua Franciscan against #10 Mentor Lake Catholic. The two met twice this season with Lake Catholic winning the first one in three game and Padua winning the second in three games. This one is anyone's guess.
Upset City: #17 Celina is a strong team, but their upset of defending state champion, #6 ranked Toledo Central Catholic was a stunner and our people say Celina was more than impressive. #2 Mansfield Madison Comprehensive will have their work cut out for them.
In Division Three: The Clear Favorite: #2 Albany Alexander has flown under-the-radar and has gotten little buzz despite losing only once and being the defending state runners-up. #5 Frankfort Adena won't roll over and play dead, but Alexander is clearly stronger and should return to state once again.
The Underdog: #25 St. Henry started out the season 4-10 before reeling off 12 consecutive wins. The brand-name program, with plenty of state titles, may not be an underdog in the truest sense, but they will have their hands full with the defending state champion and #1 ranked L.C.C. T-Birds.
Anyone's Guess: #6 Gilmour Academy is looking for a return appearance to the final four, but will have to get by #3 West Salem Northwestern, a team that is looking good. The two teams will likely battle it out in a tight match.
Upset City: Well, it certainly would be quite the upset if St. Henry can get past an L.C.C. team that has only lost once since winning last year's championship, but it can also be said that when unranked Middletown Bishop Fenwick knocks off #18 Versailles today that it will be called an upset!
In Division Four: The Clear Favorite: #5 Marion Local, the defending state champions, has the easiest path out of anyone to return to state. Look for a three-game warm-up against #8 Leipsic today in their regional final.
The Underdog: #19 South Webster has a quality team this season, but they will have to bring their A-game to defeat #2 Newark Catholic, looking to return to state once again.
Anyone's Guess: #9 Buckeye Central got to this point for the first time in years by pulling off a major upset against #3 Norwalk St. Paul. We think they have the pathway to state in this one, but #15 Kidron Central Christian isn't exactly a team to be taken lightly. They played a tough schedule and only lost three times and in close games against the likes of Wooster Triway and Smithville. This match could go either way.
Upset City: #1 Jackson Center has pretty much played perfect volleyball this season, losing only once (to #1 D3 Lima Central Catholic) and coming close to losing only twice more (against #5 Marion Local and #6 Lehman Catholic). But, it's those close matches and the pressure of getting back to state with the #1 ranking targets on their backs that might lend their match-up with #26 Fort Loramie into being a huge upset in the making. Fort Loramie just got done dismantling Lehman in regional semi-finals, and while JC has beaten Loramie twice already this season, it is always hard to beat a team three times. We look for Jackson Center to pull it out, but they better be ready later today!
Friday, October 31, 2008
A Look Into State Tourney Preparations
OHSAA Commissioner Dr. Deborah Moore opens up about the Final FourSome things at the state volleyball final four remain the same, whether it be certain coaches, officials, teams, media personnel, or even certain fans. Interestingly, there is one staple to the Nutter Center on the campus of Wright State University in Dayton that many know this time of year. Dr. Deborah Moore has been the OHSAA commissioner in attendance for as long as one can remember. Just how long?
“I have attended for a total of 24 years, the last 20 continuously during my tenure with the OHSAA,” offered Dr. Moore.
Dr. Moore has taken this event very seriously during her time and really has gained a fond love of the game, especially during the state final four.
“I love this tournament. Volleyball is just such a fantastic sport – so exciting, very fan-friendly. Each year when I come to our finalists’ meeting, which takes place on the Sunday preceding the state tournament, I look forward to visiting all the coaches and their school administrators. I know what an exciting and challenging time it is for each of them, and my job is to help make the experience the very best it can be for students, coaches and the school communities,” said Dr. Moore.
Maximum Preparation
It’s no surprise each season to see Dr Moore very busy on the sidelines with media, coaches, players, Nutter Center employees, and all the behind the scenes work. In fact, most of us don’t quite understand the small details that it takes to make the final four so successful.
“We start preparing for the season at least six months ahead of the event,” adds Dr. Moore. “We prepare the tournament regulations, which are adopted by our Board of Directors in June, and then I spend the months of September and October communicating with tournament managers and revising administrative documents that assist us with the management of our regional and state tournaments. Just last week I spent the day in Dayton meeting with Mr. Max Benton our state tournament manager. I will spend the next couple weeks putting the finishing touches on our state tournament preparations.”
The Nutter Center has always provided fans with such a great venue to watch volleyball up close in a spacious environment. It also provides a great facility for the players during this crucial weekend.
Dr. Moore admits, “I think the Nutter Center at WSU is a fantastic venue. The staff at the Center and the university personnel have been great friends to the OHSAA in their support of girls volleyball and in continuing to permit us to compete this tournament in a first class facility. While not one of the largest collegiate facilities in the state, it is perfect for volleyball and has the added advantage of warm-up courts for our competing schools to use prior to their matches.”
Format Changes
Also, some changes are in effect this year for the final four that some may not know. Dr Moore spoke about some of these upcoming changes.
“The major change is in the format,” she stated. “For the first time, we will conduct this tournament similar to the way state basketball is competed. Thursday’s competition will feature four matches, the two semis in Division II followed by Division I starting at Noon. Friday’s competition follows the same format with semis in Division IV and then III starting at Noon. Saturday will be the four final matches as in the past. For a fan, being able to see four matches each day for one price - $9.00 at the gate; $7.00 presale at the schools – is a great deal.”
Broadcasting the Championships
Also, this year will feature Cleveland.com broadcasting LIVE final four games on their affiliated OhioHSsports.com website. Dr. Moore couldn’t be more thrilled with this new addition.
“We feel privileged to have entered into this agreement with Cleveland.com that will enable us to broadcast this sport for the first time. It clearly says that there is a market for girls volleyball and that people who are unable to travel to the Dayton area can enjoy the competition.”
Stepping outside of the business aspect of the final four, Dr. Moore touched on some of the personal joys of this great weekend in November. When asked if she had time to do any fun social events during that time, she replied, “A little. My in-laws live in Dayton so I try to visit with them a bit, and I usually come in on Wednesday evening and spend some time with one of my best friends from high school days. But once the tournament begins, there is not much time for social events.”
She added, “This year we are moving to the new format with four matches per day, so I will see how that works out. Usually I am very tired each evening and want to get plenty of rest so that I can be at my best each day.”
Love of Athletics
Spending twenty years at the final four really speaks volumes about Dr. Moore’s commitment to the sport of volleyball. As a former athlete herself, she does remember some of her old playing days. She recalls, “I played volleyball in junior high and high school and then some club ball early in my adult life. Girls sports were not highly organized back in the 1960’s, but I enjoyed playing all positions. I am not tall, but I could jump so I enjoyed the hitting aspect.”
Witnessing State Volleyball History
During her long tenure she has had the opportunity to see so many great volleyball teams like the old Cincinnati St. Ursula teams, the Hopewell's, the Archbold's and legendary coach Char Sharp. When asked about some of the great memories she had, she stated, “I am not sure I can pick one moment. Here are some of my favorites: seeing the great match-ups in Division 1 pitting the outstanding teams from the Girls Greater Cincinnati League; the awesome teams from small schools like St. Henry and Hopewell-Loudon with their huge fan following; the tiny school from Plain City, Shekinah Christian that made it to the tournament in the mid 1990’s and brought so many folks. Of course I always loved watching Bob McFarland’s Stow-Monroe Falls teams compete – what a terrific program he developed.”
She added,” Every year is special and I have so many wonderful memories.”
Ohio---Volleyball Hotbed
Ohio should be proud of the development of girls volleyball. More and more colleges are now recruiting Ohio heavily including the powers of UCLA, Penn State, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and even Stanford. Dr. Moore stated, “I think volleyball is progressing extremely well both in terms of the development of players and the overall participation for our girls. Ohio’s volleyball coaches are well respected and do a great job in teaching the sport as well as inspiring girls to want to play this game.”
Dr. Deborah Moore Associate Commissioner for Eligibility since August 7, 2008 Assistant Commissioner since June 5, 1989 Responsibilitites: Coaching Education, Interpretation of Bylaws and Constitution, Referendum Issues and Voting, OHSAA Chemical Awareness, Healthy Lifestyles Programs and Sports Medicine Issues, Rules/Regulations for FH, GGYM, VB, SD, TF, Tournament Officials Assignments for FH, GGYM, Scholar-Athlete Scholarships, Student Eligibility Questions - including transfers and foreign exchange students
Thursday, October 30, 2008
REGIONAL FINALS SET IN D1 and D3
Tonight offered lots of surprises! Captain Brinn was at Findlay watching the D3 Semi-Finals featuring a St. Henry and LCC win, while Keane was at Norwalk watching as TSUA almost upset #2 and undefeated Olmsted Falls and Findlay pushed Rocky River Magnificat. The surprises? How about Dublin Coffman falling to Olentangy in five? How about Anna being hammered by Middletown Bishop Fenwick? How about Cloverleaf defeating Mentor in their D1 Regional? Whew! Good stuff happening in the volleyball tournament right now and here are the matchups for the finals, with our picks in BOLD:
DIVISION ONE
Olentangy v. Cincinnati Ursuline
Olmsted Falls v. Rocky River Magnificat
Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame v. Cincinnati Mother of Mercy (DEAD EVEN MATCH)
Cloverleaf v. Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. (UPSET WATCH)
DIVISION THREE
Lima Central Catholic v. St. Henry (UPSET WATCH)
Frankfort Adena v. Albany Alexander
Gilmour Academy v. West Salem Northwestern
Versailles v. Middletown Bishop Fenwick
DIVISION ONE
Olentangy v. Cincinnati Ursuline
Olmsted Falls v. Rocky River Magnificat
Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame v. Cincinnati Mother of Mercy (DEAD EVEN MATCH)
Cloverleaf v. Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. (UPSET WATCH)
DIVISION THREE
Lima Central Catholic v. St. Henry (UPSET WATCH)
Frankfort Adena v. Albany Alexander
Gilmour Academy v. West Salem Northwestern
Versailles v. Middletown Bishop Fenwick
OLMSTED (nearly) FALLS!
What a match tonight. I couldn't believe my eyes as I was watching this one in person! Toledo St. Ursula, who did not impress me much all season, nearly pulled off one of the biggest upsets thus far in the tourney. TSUA grabbed the first two games of their match with #2 and undefeated Olmsted Falls 25-18 and 25-20. It wasn't until game three when Olmsted decided to show up I guess and took the next three, 25-14, 25-20, 15-11. Olmsted survives and will advance to play Magnificat or Findlay.
Other news from our team around the state. St. Henry knocks off Huron in D3 in four games, Gilmour Academy and Albany Alexander advance, while Cincinnati Ursuline demolishes Marysville in less than an hour in three games.
MORE TO COME...
Other news from our team around the state. St. Henry knocks off Huron in D3 in four games, Gilmour Academy and Albany Alexander advance, while Cincinnati Ursuline demolishes Marysville in less than an hour in three games.
MORE TO COME...
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
REGIONAL FINALS SET IN D2 and D4
The Division 2 and 4 Regional Semi's got things underway tonight in the battle for who will go to state next week. There were some surprises, especially #1 Tippecanoe falling in D2 and #6 and defending state champion, Toledo Central Catholic, going down to #17 Celina. In D4, Lehman Catholic did not put up a fight against Fort Loramie and is out of the tourney. Here are the D2 and D4 match-up for Saturday and our new picks in BOLD:
DIVISION TWO
Celina v. Mansfield Madison
Parma Padua Franciscan v. Mentor Lake Catholic (UPSET WATCH)
Logan Elm v. Kettering Archbishop Alter
Columbus Bishop Hartley v. Big Walnut
DIVISION FOUR
Newark Catholic v. South Webster
Marion Local v. Leipsic
Fort Loramie v. Jackson Center (UPSET WATCH)
Kidron Central Christian v. Buckeye Central
DIVISION TWO
Celina v. Mansfield Madison
Parma Padua Franciscan v. Mentor Lake Catholic (UPSET WATCH)
Logan Elm v. Kettering Archbishop Alter
Columbus Bishop Hartley v. Big Walnut
DIVISION FOUR
Newark Catholic v. South Webster
Marion Local v. Leipsic
Fort Loramie v. Jackson Center (UPSET WATCH)
Kidron Central Christian v. Buckeye Central
Upset City!
All the results aren't in tonight, but we do know that D2#1 Tipp City Tippecanoe went down in four to Kettering Archbishop Alter! We predicted earlier that Tippecanoe might be vulnerable to the tradition-rich GGCL Alter, but thought they would have enough to make it to state and contend for the title.
Another somewhat surprising result, though we also said it could happen is Fort Loramie handing Lehman Catholic a loss in semi-finals in just three games!
Right now another upset is in the making as Celina leads Toledo Central Catholic 2 games to 1!
Other results we know of:
Marion Local wins easy over Calvert and will face Leipsic, another easy victor over Pettisville
Mansfield Madison beat Wooster Triway in 4
South Webster outlasted Beaver Eastern
Buckeye Central won in 3
Bishop Hartley won in 3
Kidron Central Christian won in 3
Parma Padua defeats Walsh Jesuit
MORE TO COME...
Another somewhat surprising result, though we also said it could happen is Fort Loramie handing Lehman Catholic a loss in semi-finals in just three games!
Right now another upset is in the making as Celina leads Toledo Central Catholic 2 games to 1!
Other results we know of:
Marion Local wins easy over Calvert and will face Leipsic, another easy victor over Pettisville
Mansfield Madison beat Wooster Triway in 4
South Webster outlasted Beaver Eastern
Buckeye Central won in 3
Bishop Hartley won in 3
Kidron Central Christian won in 3
Parma Padua defeats Walsh Jesuit
MORE TO COME...
REGIONALS IN-DEPTH
Some great match-ups begin tonight in regionals and there are certainly a lot of surprises that could come out of the matches. Here is a look in-depth at the regional storylines:
DIVISION ONE
Best Match: Dublin Coffman is the real deal perhaps, but the meeting with Olentangy might prove to be a real battle.
Not a Chance: Marysville proved their worthiness in our poll by upsetting Bishop Watterson last weekend for a regional appearance, but they do not stand a chance against the #1 team in D1 and a GGCL team to boot, Cincinnati Ursuline. It will be over quick.
Upset Potential: Could TSUA get the best of Olmsted Falls? Doubt it, but this match looks intriguing. Mentor and Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. are highly vulnerable in their semi-final matches.
DIVISION TWO
Best Match: Mansfield Madison and Wooster Triway will be an all-out battle and Alter and Tippecanoe battled to five at the start of the season. Will Alter end the hopes and dreams of the folks from Tipp City?
Not a Chance: Claymont who? They don't belong and will face defeat against Bishop Hartley.
Upset Potential: Besides the potential of Alter ousting Tippecanoe, Walsh Jesuit could end Padua Franciscan's season and Mentor Lake Catholic is a serious threat to Salem, who is hoping to return to state for the second year-in-a-row.
DIVISION THREE
Best Match: Huron and St. Henry get this nod since both are perennial powers and both aren't as strong as they traditionally are. St. Henry, for the second time in as many seasons, looked dead in the water, but has once again found a way to surprise. Huron hasn't struggled as bad, but they don't play as tough a schedule as St. Henry. Should be a good battle, but St. Henry should prevail.
Not a Chance: Westfall has traditionally been a fairly good program, but this year they won't be able to keep up with a very strong Alexander team, a favorite for the title.
Upset Potential: Cleveland VASJ seems to bring it every year come tourney time. Don't be shocked to see them pull off an upset against West Salem NW. Also, could Tuscarawas Valley shock Frankfort Adena?
DIVISION FOUR
Best Match: Sidney Lehman Catholic and Fort Loramie will be the best semi-final match in this division. Do not be surprised if Fort Loramie pulls it off, but they will have to have a great matchup against a well-coached and tested program like LC.
Not a Chance: Basically all three teams in the regional with Marion Local. What a waste of a regional bracket. It is such a shame that teams like New Bremen, Convoy Crestview, Minster, Fort Recovery, etc. are ousted each year so early when teams like Pettisville are a regional semi-finalist. Leipsic and Tiffin Calvert may be ranked, but they also don't stand a chance of stopping a MAC team.
Upset Potential: Division 4 is the blandest division of them all. There is no parody anymore in this division and where there is some it is all present in one or two regions so the quality teams are booted early leaving for a dull regional set-up. Biggest potential for an upset? Probably a small, small chance for Tusky Central Catholic over Newark Catholic and maybe Kidron over Buckeye Central in Regional Finals.
DIVISION ONE
Best Match: Dublin Coffman is the real deal perhaps, but the meeting with Olentangy might prove to be a real battle.
Not a Chance: Marysville proved their worthiness in our poll by upsetting Bishop Watterson last weekend for a regional appearance, but they do not stand a chance against the #1 team in D1 and a GGCL team to boot, Cincinnati Ursuline. It will be over quick.
Upset Potential: Could TSUA get the best of Olmsted Falls? Doubt it, but this match looks intriguing. Mentor and Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. are highly vulnerable in their semi-final matches.
DIVISION TWO
Best Match: Mansfield Madison and Wooster Triway will be an all-out battle and Alter and Tippecanoe battled to five at the start of the season. Will Alter end the hopes and dreams of the folks from Tipp City?
Not a Chance: Claymont who? They don't belong and will face defeat against Bishop Hartley.
Upset Potential: Besides the potential of Alter ousting Tippecanoe, Walsh Jesuit could end Padua Franciscan's season and Mentor Lake Catholic is a serious threat to Salem, who is hoping to return to state for the second year-in-a-row.
DIVISION THREE
Best Match: Huron and St. Henry get this nod since both are perennial powers and both aren't as strong as they traditionally are. St. Henry, for the second time in as many seasons, looked dead in the water, but has once again found a way to surprise. Huron hasn't struggled as bad, but they don't play as tough a schedule as St. Henry. Should be a good battle, but St. Henry should prevail.
Not a Chance: Westfall has traditionally been a fairly good program, but this year they won't be able to keep up with a very strong Alexander team, a favorite for the title.
Upset Potential: Cleveland VASJ seems to bring it every year come tourney time. Don't be shocked to see them pull off an upset against West Salem NW. Also, could Tuscarawas Valley shock Frankfort Adena?
DIVISION FOUR
Best Match: Sidney Lehman Catholic and Fort Loramie will be the best semi-final match in this division. Do not be surprised if Fort Loramie pulls it off, but they will have to have a great matchup against a well-coached and tested program like LC.
Not a Chance: Basically all three teams in the regional with Marion Local. What a waste of a regional bracket. It is such a shame that teams like New Bremen, Convoy Crestview, Minster, Fort Recovery, etc. are ousted each year so early when teams like Pettisville are a regional semi-finalist. Leipsic and Tiffin Calvert may be ranked, but they also don't stand a chance of stopping a MAC team.
Upset Potential: Division 4 is the blandest division of them all. There is no parody anymore in this division and where there is some it is all present in one or two regions so the quality teams are booted early leaving for a dull regional set-up. Biggest potential for an upset? Probably a small, small chance for Tusky Central Catholic over Newark Catholic and maybe Kidron over Buckeye Central in Regional Finals.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Captain Brinn's Regional Predictions!
Regionals get underway Wednesday night, and here is how we think things will pan out and who will be playing in the final four next week:
DIVISION ONE
Stow Munroe-Falls v. Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. (Brecksville-Broadsview Hts.)
Cloverleaf v. Mentor (Mentor)
Regional Final: Mentor v. Brecksville-Broadsview Hts.
Regional Champ: Brecksville-Broadsview Hts.
Toledo St. Ursula v. Olmsted Falls (Olmsted Falls)
Rocky River Magnificat v. Findlay (Magnificat)
Regional Final: Olmsted Falls v. Magnificat
Regional Champ: Olmsted Falls
Cincinnati Ursuline v. Marysville (Ursuline)
Olentangy v. Dublin Coffman (Dublin Coffman)
Regional Final: Ursuline v. Dublin Coffman
Regional Champ: Cincinnati Ursuline
Lakota West v. Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame (Mt. Notre Dame)
Cincinnati Mother of Mercy v. Cincinnati McAuley (Mother of Mercy)
Regional Final: Mt. Notre Dame v. Mother of Mercy
Regional Champ: Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame
DIVISION TWO
Mansfield Madison v. Wooster Triway (Mansfield Madison)
Toledo Central Catholic v. Celina (TCC)
Regional Final: Mansfield Madison v. Toledo Central Catholic
Regional Champ: Toledo Central Catholic
Parma Padua Franciscan v. Walsh Jesuit (Parma Padua Franciscan)
Mentor Lake Catholic v. Salem (Salem)
Regional Final: Padua Franciscan v. Salem
Regional Champ: Parma Padua Franciscan
Tippecanoe v. Alter (Tippecanoe)
Logan Elm v. Urbana (Urbana)
Regional Final: Tippecanoe v. Urbana
Regional Champ: Tippecanoe
Claymont v. Columbus Bishop Hartley (Bishop Hartley)
Big Walnut v. Warsaw River View (Big Walnut)
Regional Final: Bishop Hartley v. Big Walnut
Regional Champ: Bishop Hartley
DIVISION THREE
Huron v. St. Henry (St. Henry)
Lima Central Catholic v. Heath (LCC)
Regional Final: St. Henry v. LCC
Regional Champ: Lima Central Catholic
Gilmour Academy v. New Middletown Springfield (Gilmour Academy)
West Salem NW v. Cleveland VASJ (West Salem NW)
Regional Final: Gilmour Academy v. West Salem NW
Regional Champ: Gilmour Academy
Columbus Bishop Ready v. Versailles (Versailles)
Bishop Fenwick v. Anna (Anna)
Regional Final: Versailles v. Anna
Regional Champ: Anna
Albany Alexander v. Westfall (Alexander)
Tuscarawas Valley v. Frankfort Adena (Frankfort Adena)
Regional Final: Alexander v. Adena
Regional Champ: Alexander
DIVISION FOUR
Leipsic v. Pettisville (Leipsic)
Marion Local v. Tiffin Calvert (Marion Local)
Regional Final: Leipsic v. Marion Local
Regional Champ: Marion Local
South Webster v. Beaver Eastern (South Webster)
Tuscarawas Central Catholic v. Newark Catholic (Newark Catholic)
Regional Final: South Webster v. Newark Catholic
Regional Champ: Newark Catholic
Mineral Ridge v. Kidron Central Christian (Kidron Central Christian)
Buckeye Central v. Cornerstone Christian (Buckeye Central)
Regional Final: Kidron Central Christian v. Buckeye Central
Regional Champ: Buckeye Central
Sidney Lehman Catholic v. Fort Loramie (Lehman Catholic)
Jackson Center v. Lancaster Fisher Catholic (Jackson Center)
Regional Final: Lehman Catholic v. Jackson Center
Regional Champ: Jackson Center
DIVISION ONE
Stow Munroe-Falls v. Brecksville-Broadsview Hts. (Brecksville-Broadsview Hts.)
Cloverleaf v. Mentor (Mentor)
Regional Final: Mentor v. Brecksville-Broadsview Hts.
Regional Champ: Brecksville-Broadsview Hts.
Toledo St. Ursula v. Olmsted Falls (Olmsted Falls)
Rocky River Magnificat v. Findlay (Magnificat)
Regional Final: Olmsted Falls v. Magnificat
Regional Champ: Olmsted Falls
Cincinnati Ursuline v. Marysville (Ursuline)
Olentangy v. Dublin Coffman (Dublin Coffman)
Regional Final: Ursuline v. Dublin Coffman
Regional Champ: Cincinnati Ursuline
Lakota West v. Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame (Mt. Notre Dame)
Cincinnati Mother of Mercy v. Cincinnati McAuley (Mother of Mercy)
Regional Final: Mt. Notre Dame v. Mother of Mercy
Regional Champ: Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame
DIVISION TWO
Mansfield Madison v. Wooster Triway (Mansfield Madison)
Toledo Central Catholic v. Celina (TCC)
Regional Final: Mansfield Madison v. Toledo Central Catholic
Regional Champ: Toledo Central Catholic
Parma Padua Franciscan v. Walsh Jesuit (Parma Padua Franciscan)
Mentor Lake Catholic v. Salem (Salem)
Regional Final: Padua Franciscan v. Salem
Regional Champ: Parma Padua Franciscan
Tippecanoe v. Alter (Tippecanoe)
Logan Elm v. Urbana (Urbana)
Regional Final: Tippecanoe v. Urbana
Regional Champ: Tippecanoe
Claymont v. Columbus Bishop Hartley (Bishop Hartley)
Big Walnut v. Warsaw River View (Big Walnut)
Regional Final: Bishop Hartley v. Big Walnut
Regional Champ: Bishop Hartley
DIVISION THREE
Huron v. St. Henry (St. Henry)
Lima Central Catholic v. Heath (LCC)
Regional Final: St. Henry v. LCC
Regional Champ: Lima Central Catholic
Gilmour Academy v. New Middletown Springfield (Gilmour Academy)
West Salem NW v. Cleveland VASJ (West Salem NW)
Regional Final: Gilmour Academy v. West Salem NW
Regional Champ: Gilmour Academy
Columbus Bishop Ready v. Versailles (Versailles)
Bishop Fenwick v. Anna (Anna)
Regional Final: Versailles v. Anna
Regional Champ: Anna
Albany Alexander v. Westfall (Alexander)
Tuscarawas Valley v. Frankfort Adena (Frankfort Adena)
Regional Final: Alexander v. Adena
Regional Champ: Alexander
DIVISION FOUR
Leipsic v. Pettisville (Leipsic)
Marion Local v. Tiffin Calvert (Marion Local)
Regional Final: Leipsic v. Marion Local
Regional Champ: Marion Local
South Webster v. Beaver Eastern (South Webster)
Tuscarawas Central Catholic v. Newark Catholic (Newark Catholic)
Regional Final: South Webster v. Newark Catholic
Regional Champ: Newark Catholic
Mineral Ridge v. Kidron Central Christian (Kidron Central Christian)
Buckeye Central v. Cornerstone Christian (Buckeye Central)
Regional Final: Kidron Central Christian v. Buckeye Central
Regional Champ: Buckeye Central
Sidney Lehman Catholic v. Fort Loramie (Lehman Catholic)
Jackson Center v. Lancaster Fisher Catholic (Jackson Center)
Regional Final: Lehman Catholic v. Jackson Center
Regional Champ: Jackson Center
Saturday, October 25, 2008
SWEET SATURDAY!
The Sweet 16 will be determined after Saturday's remaining District Final match-ups. Here are today's matches that spark an interest:
MATCHES OF THE DAY
D1: #26 Toledo St. Ursula v. #14 Toledo Notre Dame (These two rivals meet once again. Look for Notre Dame to once again get the best of TSUA, who upset Sylvania Southview to get here today.)
D2: #1 Tippecanoe v. #12 Cincinnati McNicholas (The pressure is on for Tippecanoe, who will face a GGCL team not afraid or intimidated. McNick could pull off the upset today, though Tippecanoe might come out focused enough to put an early end to any upset hopes.)
D3: #21 Anna v. #22 Cincinnati Roger Bacon (Both teams underachieved this season, but both former state champions are always capable of making a big tourney run. Roger Bacon's GGCL experiences should help them advance to regionals today.)
D4: #9 Buckeye Central v. #3 Norwalk St. Paul (NSP should win in three today, but Buckeye Central, who for years held NSP back in districts, could put a scare in the defending state runners-up. Still, NSP should be back to regionals and on their way to another state appearance.)
OTHER MATCHES TO WATCH:
D1: #13 Marysville will try to surprise #8 Columbus Bishop Watterson
D1: #12 Olentangy may have enough to upend #6 Pickerington North
D1: #9 Lebanon will attempt what so many public schools fail to do in tourney, put an end to a GGCL team's tourney run. This time it's #5 Mother of Mercy standing in the way.
D2: #17 Celina is looking for another regional appearance, but #24 Tiffin Columbian may just end those dreams.
D2: #16 Indian Hill may be ranked higher, but in tourney they will be an underdog versus battle-tested and tradition-rich #19 Alter.
D3: #6 Gilmour Academy will look to end #9 Berkshire's season.
D3: #14 Heath and #15 Fredericktown are pretty even this season. Heath may be just a bit better, but it is anyone's match.
D4: #5 Marion Local and #13 Convoy Crestview have battled many times over the last few years in this district final spot, but Crestview never can get over the MAC-hump! Marion Local is on their way to another final four.
MATCHES OF THE DAY
D1: #26 Toledo St. Ursula v. #14 Toledo Notre Dame (These two rivals meet once again. Look for Notre Dame to once again get the best of TSUA, who upset Sylvania Southview to get here today.)
D2: #1 Tippecanoe v. #12 Cincinnati McNicholas (The pressure is on for Tippecanoe, who will face a GGCL team not afraid or intimidated. McNick could pull off the upset today, though Tippecanoe might come out focused enough to put an early end to any upset hopes.)
D3: #21 Anna v. #22 Cincinnati Roger Bacon (Both teams underachieved this season, but both former state champions are always capable of making a big tourney run. Roger Bacon's GGCL experiences should help them advance to regionals today.)
D4: #9 Buckeye Central v. #3 Norwalk St. Paul (NSP should win in three today, but Buckeye Central, who for years held NSP back in districts, could put a scare in the defending state runners-up. Still, NSP should be back to regionals and on their way to another state appearance.)
OTHER MATCHES TO WATCH:
D1: #13 Marysville will try to surprise #8 Columbus Bishop Watterson
D1: #12 Olentangy may have enough to upend #6 Pickerington North
D1: #9 Lebanon will attempt what so many public schools fail to do in tourney, put an end to a GGCL team's tourney run. This time it's #5 Mother of Mercy standing in the way.
D2: #17 Celina is looking for another regional appearance, but #24 Tiffin Columbian may just end those dreams.
D2: #16 Indian Hill may be ranked higher, but in tourney they will be an underdog versus battle-tested and tradition-rich #19 Alter.
D3: #6 Gilmour Academy will look to end #9 Berkshire's season.
D3: #14 Heath and #15 Fredericktown are pretty even this season. Heath may be just a bit better, but it is anyone's match.
D4: #5 Marion Local and #13 Convoy Crestview have battled many times over the last few years in this district final spot, but Crestview never can get over the MAC-hump! Marion Local is on their way to another final four.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Topsy-Turvy Tuesday
Tuesday's District Semi-Finals featured some high-quality matches that changed the trajectory of the race to state! Here's a look at some of the highlights:
- #5 Marion Local ousts #4 New Bremen: During the regular season meeting, New Bremen won a tight five-game battle, and tonight's contest was what we have come to expect from the MAC. A five-game thriller that ended with Marion Local advancing to District Finals Saturday, 26-24, 26-28, 25-5, 23-25, 15-11. While New Bremen was our pick to head to state in D4, this one was always going to be a toss-up. For New Bremen Coach Lisa Thobe, it was another heartbreaking defeat that squelched her opportunity to take a team at least to regionals and perhaps vie for a state championship. For Marion Local, it is gives them a clear path to state to defend last year's title. I was at this match tonight at New Bremen and the atmosphere was electric! Great match, but ML stepped it up and New Bremen was clearly intimidated by Marion Local's tradition.
- #13 Convoy Crestview will face Marion Local Saturday after defeating #27 Delphos St. John's in five. Crestview traditionally makes it to District Finals, but their MAC foe always proves too tough. Look for Marion Local to head to regionals and breeze to state.
- #8 Leipsic defeated Pandora-Gilboa tonight, but it wasn't easy. They needed five games to do it, 22-25, 25-19, 25-9, 23-25, 15-10.
- #25 St. Henry upset #10 Rockford Parkway in four games, 25-17, 25-19, 21-25, 29-27
- #3 Norwalk St. Paul handed #21 Monroeville a four-game defeat
- Big upset at Old Fort tonight as #22 Tiffin Calvert continues their series of upsets and takes down #7 Hopewell-Loudon in five, 25-17, 16-25, 16-25, 26-24, 15-11.
- Antwerp upset #24 Edon in five games
- #12 Milan Edison couldn't get over the hump against #11 Huron, as Huron defeats them in four games.
- #23 Riverdale over Lakota in four.
- #7 Orrville easily handled #4 Smithville and will face #3 West Salem Northwestern on Saturday.
- #17 Celina and #24 Tiffin Columbian both won and will face-off on Saturday.
- #20 Tuscarawas Valley took-out #19 Buckeye Trail, while #8 Monroe Central was upset by unranked Ridgewood in five games.
- #24 Evergreen is out of the tourney after being upset by Liberty Center.
Monday, October 20, 2008
THE BIG BRAG: Mid-State League vs. Ohio Capital Conference
This week Captain Brinn's Ohio Varsity will be holding THE BIG BRAG competition between leagues and conferences as we get ready for district tournaments. Here is your chance to post comments here on the blog, within the social community, or by emailing them to captainbrinn@gmail.com.
What's the competition? Well, whichever league has the most verbal and opinionated and proud fans and the more they share their comments with us, that league will win BRAGGING RIGHTS against the league they are up against here on the blog. As we head into regionals we will see if those bragging rights are backed up by results or if those words are just hot air! Tonight, we have two HUGE leagues...literally. The Mid-State League boasts 23 teams, while the Ohio Capital Conference hosts 30 teams! Which league, though, has the most fans who want to BRAG them up! Brag about your teams and your league by posting in the comments section of the blog, by emailing your bragging to us or by posting them on the social community!
The Mid-State League's Canal Winchester (D2) has some fans on JJHuddle who might be looking past Granville and to a match-up with the OCC's Big Walnut (#11, D2) in district finals. Big Walnut, of course, was handed a loss this season by the MSL's Newark Catholic (#2, D4). That's just a taste of what these two leagues have to offer, along with teams like the OCC' s Pickerington North (#6, D1), Dublin Coffman (#4, D1), and Olentangy (#12, D1), and the MSL's Heath (#14, D3) and West Jefferson (#28, D3).
So, let the bragging begin....
TOMORROW'S BIG BRAG WILL FEATURE The Midwest Athletic Conference vs. The Shelby County League!
What's the competition? Well, whichever league has the most verbal and opinionated and proud fans and the more they share their comments with us, that league will win BRAGGING RIGHTS against the league they are up against here on the blog. As we head into regionals we will see if those bragging rights are backed up by results or if those words are just hot air! Tonight, we have two HUGE leagues...literally. The Mid-State League boasts 23 teams, while the Ohio Capital Conference hosts 30 teams! Which league, though, has the most fans who want to BRAG them up! Brag about your teams and your league by posting in the comments section of the blog, by emailing your bragging to us or by posting them on the social community!
The Mid-State League's Canal Winchester (D2) has some fans on JJHuddle who might be looking past Granville and to a match-up with the OCC's Big Walnut (#11, D2) in district finals. Big Walnut, of course, was handed a loss this season by the MSL's Newark Catholic (#2, D4). That's just a taste of what these two leagues have to offer, along with teams like the OCC' s Pickerington North (#6, D1), Dublin Coffman (#4, D1), and Olentangy (#12, D1), and the MSL's Heath (#14, D3) and West Jefferson (#28, D3).
So, let the bragging begin....
TOMORROW'S BIG BRAG WILL FEATURE The Midwest Athletic Conference vs. The Shelby County League!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Saturday's matches offer little surprise
There weren't any major upsets in yesterday's tourney action, but it did begin the process of setting up some very interesting matches down the road. Here's a round-up of yesterday by division:
Division One
Ranked teams winning included Olentangy, Pickerington North, Hudson, Olmsted Falls, Sylvania Southview, Cincinnati Ursuline, Lebanon, Elyria.
#29 Centerville upset #7 Dayton C-J in three
Unranked Cincinnati Seton defeated #22 Lakota East
Division Two
Ranked winners included Columbus Bishop Hartley, Sunbury Big Walnut, Warsaw River View, Kenston, Cincinnati McNicholas, Tippecanoe, Kettering Alter
Division Three
Ranked winners included Marion Pleasant, Orrville, Smithville, Huron, Riverdale, LCC, Versailles, St. Henry, Albany Alexander, , Rockford Parkway.
#21 Anna defeated #29 Tri-County North in four games.
Division Four
Ranked winners were Sidney Lehman Catholic, Convoy Crestview, New Bremen, Marion Local, Hopewell-Loudon, Norwalk St. Paul, Monroeville, Gilead Christian, Leipsic, Fort Loramie, Kidron Central Christian, Edon, Newark Catholic
#27 Delphos St. John's upset #18 Kalida in five games
#22 Tiffin Calvert upset #11 Sycamore Mohawk in three games
Division One
Ranked teams winning included Olentangy, Pickerington North, Hudson, Olmsted Falls, Sylvania Southview, Cincinnati Ursuline, Lebanon, Elyria.
#29 Centerville upset #7 Dayton C-J in three
Unranked Cincinnati Seton defeated #22 Lakota East
Division Two
Ranked winners included Columbus Bishop Hartley, Sunbury Big Walnut, Warsaw River View, Kenston, Cincinnati McNicholas, Tippecanoe, Kettering Alter
Division Three
Ranked winners included Marion Pleasant, Orrville, Smithville, Huron, Riverdale, LCC, Versailles, St. Henry, Albany Alexander, , Rockford Parkway.
#21 Anna defeated #29 Tri-County North in four games.
Division Four
Ranked winners were Sidney Lehman Catholic, Convoy Crestview, New Bremen, Marion Local, Hopewell-Loudon, Norwalk St. Paul, Monroeville, Gilead Christian, Leipsic, Fort Loramie, Kidron Central Christian, Edon, Newark Catholic
#27 Delphos St. John's upset #18 Kalida in five games
#22 Tiffin Calvert upset #11 Sycamore Mohawk in three games
Saturday, October 18, 2008
CBOHIOVARSITY TOURNEY PREVIEW: The Battle of Tippecanoe Part II
Experience Proving the Difference for Tippecanoe’s Carus--Part II of the in depth look at the head coach for Tippecanoe
Pat Carus took over the Tipp City Tippecanoe job five years ago. He had a vision—a big vision for the program. He wanted to turn this once good program into a state power. Now, one year removed from a state semifinal appearance, he and his team remain undefeated, ranked #1 in the polls, and are ready to make another run towards the state title. Carus recalls, “We got asked to take over the THS program 5 years ago. The mission was to rebuild a once strong program back to where it was. That journey is never over, each year you get a chance to try and see if you can add to the value of what we provide.” It appears he has his program on track and even stronger.
It’s no surprise to see the success Coach Carus has garnered in such a short time. His history is volleyball rich dating back over thirty-five years. Carus grew up in Wisconsin and had the opportunity to play men’s volleyball in high school in which the team went 76-1 and captured a state title. From there, Carus went on to play for the Buckeyes of Ohio State. Carus remembers, “One of the guys ahead of me went on to play at Ball State and then transferred to UCLA (Dave Mochalski). I went on and played at Ohio State. This was all in the late 70’s, early 80’s. Once out of college, I continued in the game as a member of the Kenneth Allen Volleyball Club out of Chicago (among others), winning a US Open title in 1989 as a starting middle.”
Adding to his experience as a player, Pat Carus also took on the role of officiating which also improved his knowledge of the game. He explained, “I was also an official for fifteen years working both the women’s and men’s game. Got to work 5 men’s Final Fours – two in Pauley Pavilion at UCLA, one in Hawaii, and one at IPFW where Penn State was the first non-west coast team to win a title (1994). Also had the privilege of doing some great women’s matches for the MAC, Big Ten, SEC and A-10 along with some post-season.”
After stepping away from the game for some time, he relocated with his family and wife to Tipp City. Soon, word traveled fast of his past success and impressive resume. He seemed like the perfect fit for the Lady Red Devils program. He was approached by Tippecanoe’s faithful to help redirect the ship and take the program to the next level. He had a clear vision. “We stressed the importance of a feeder program, respect for the game and those you come into contact with along the way and the players, parents and administration have walked through the door we opened by getting involved with JO, working hard and sharing our joy for the game,” answered Carus. “We are very lucky here because the community has bought into our vision. We have a great administration, great parents, and enthusiastic players whose mission is to get better every day and willingly work on a multitude of things both in season and out of season to get the most out of the game. They truly share our passion for the game.”
He admits that Tippecanoe’s success can also be attributed to the entire coaching staff at the Tippecanoe program. From the junior high to the varsity level, Coach Carus is very excited about his supporting staff. He offers, “I have an awesome staff. They are critical to our success, because I do have a great job and company that lets me give back to my community in this fashion. Richard Brenneman has been with us forever. He had two daughters play for us and the kids love and respect his energy and enthusiasm. Alexis Dedrick handles our Reserve team and she has as much to do with how ready they are for varsity as any one. She has a great rapport with the players and is a student of the game, learning more every year.” Fortunately, the Lady Red Devils were able to recapture their freshman program after it dissipated for two seasons due to fiscal issues. Now, Tippecanoe has added a former Chaminade-Julienne representative in Paula Boch. “This year we added Paula Boch to our staff as our Freshman coach. Our feeder stumbled a bit for two years but we were able to get our freshman program back. They made huge strides under her guidance,” replied Carus. He also went on to add how important of a role the junior high coaches have played in their instant success. “I also have to give congratulations to our new staff at our middle school. We made some changes this year and the 8th graders won their conference championship and the 7th graders finished 2nd. More importantly from where we sit, the staff there (Vicki Varvel, Tracy Mader and Mark Mays) instilled the love and respect for the game.”
Beyond all the coaching success Pat Carus has achieved, the most enjoyable part of his job is the teaching. He excitingly admits, “The ability to positively influence young people in our society and to watch them grow and learn and see their eyes light up when they achieve something great. To watch them turn into not just great volleyball players, but also to go beyond that and teach life lessons and watch what they become.”
It’s quite clear why Tippecanoe has exploded onto the map of upper echelon volleyball programs. Coach Pat Carus brings a wealth of volleyball knowledge, experience, passion, and has surrounded himself with a great coaching staff, administration, and very talented high school girls. He truly is one of Ohio’s brightest volleyball minds, and he and his team are making yet another statement with their bid to return to the Final Four.
Friday, October 17, 2008
CBOHIOVARSITY TOURNEY PREVIEW: D3 & D4 Regional Predictions
Division Three Region 9 Regional Matchup Predictions
Gilmour Academy v. New Middletown Springfield (Spoiler Alert: Berkshire upends Gilmour)
Orrville v. Independence (Spoiler Alert: I have a gut feeling Orrville will shock everyone and make it h
ere over two top teams in West Salem NW and Smithville, but it's anyone's guess)Region 10 Regional Matchup Predictions
Huron v. Rockford Parkway (Spoiler Alert: Milan Edison could finally overcome Huron and Parkway has to watch out for St. Henry or Metamora Evergreen)
Heath v. L.C.C. (Spoiler Alert: Fredericktown could beat Heath)
Region 11 Regional Matchup Predictions
Albany Alexander v. Wheelersburg
Monroe Central v. Frankfort Adena (Spoiler Alert: Monroe Central better be mindful of Tuscarawas Valley)
Region 12 Regional Matchup Predictions
Columbus Bishop Ready v. Versailles (Spoiler Alert: Marion Pleasant over Ready)
Middletown Bishop Fenwick v. Cincinnati Roger Bacon (Spoiler Alert: Middletown Madison is probably favored, but I am picking Fenwick; Anna may be able to pull it off against RB)
Division Three Regional Finals
Region 9
Gilmour Academy v. Orrville
Region 10
Rockford Parkway v. Lima Central Catholic
Region 11
Albany Alexander v. Frankfort Adena
Region 12
Versailles v. Cincinnati Roger Bacon
Division Four Regional Matchup Predictions Region 13
Lordstown v. Kidron Central Christian
Norwalk St. Paul v. Ashtabula St. John & Paul (Spoiler Alert: A far off chance that Buckeye Central could shock NSP.)
Region 14
Leipsic v. Edon (Spoiler Alert: Antwerp may displace Edon.)
New Bremen v. Hopewell-Loudon (Spoiler Alert: This region is ripe for spoilers. New Bremen has to stave off not only Marion Local, but also Minster. H-L could easily fall to Sycamore Mohawk or Tiffin Calvert before regionals)
Region 15
South Webster v. Reedsville Eastern
Tuscarawas Central Catholic v. Newark Catholic
Region 16
Sidney Lehman Catholic v. Fort Loramie
Jackson Center v. Gilead Christian (Spoiler Alert: Shekinah Christian might shock Gilead.)
Division Four Regional Finals Region 13
Kidron Central Christian v. Norwalk St. Paul
Region 14
Leipsic v. New Bremen
Region 15
South Webster v. Newark Catholic
Region 16
Sidney Lehman Catholic v. Jackson Center
CBOHIOVARSITY TOURNEY PREVIEW: The Battle of Tippecanoe
After the final whistle blew last year in the state Division II semi-final game, Bishop Hartley celebrated a monumental victory winning 16-14 in the fifth game in what some believed to be one of the most exciting matches in recent years. The Nutter Center was absolutely electric. Across the net, you could see the opposite and the despair in the eyes of the Tipp City Tippecanoe players and head coach Pat Carus.
“Yes, it was complete heartache, especially the way this one ended but as I told the kids both years, the sun came up the next day, it didn’t kill us, it just might make us stronger. Let’s analyze, fix it and move on,” Carus explains.
Ironically, the same thing happened the year before in Districts to perennial power Cincinnati Roger Bacon.
“In the Bacon match, too many errors – and they were a very good team. You let a good team hang around and your chances of success go way down. In the Hartley match – ditto – we had 9-5 and 10-7 leads in game 5 – you blame nobody for that but yourself – you must finish. Again, Hartley was a very good team – and if you let them hang around…,” said Carus.
This season has shaped up again to be a spectacular run for Tippecanoe again. Currently standing at 24-0 and ranked #1 in the Captain Brinn and the Coach’s Poll, the Lady Devils have their eyes on one thing…the state title. They have an astounding, combined record of 52-1 in two seasons. The team seems to have all the right pieces and have gelled well all season long.
“We have five seniors, five juniors and three sophomores. I think it is the balance we have that has made things okay the last few years – we have our comedians and our serious ones but they also know when it’s time to focus. They have great respect for each other, are VERY unselfish, sacrificing the individual honor for team goals,” offered Carus.
Also, this team has had to endure some growing pains with the loss of two standout seniors one season ago in Porto and Andrews, who by the way had stellar state semi games.
“Interestingly, they [the younger players] have a good bit of experience so they have been chomping at the bit to show what they can do. Last year we got an opportunity for them to see the court a ton during the regular season and into the post season. Two of the three sophomores started a good bit of the season as freshman and did great stuff and the third one came in against Archbishop McNicholas and did a whale of a job for us. Because of the feeder program and their good JO experiences – plus the understanding of what it is starting to mean to play for Tippecanoe – they hit the ground running,” Carus said proudly of his team.
Tipp City Tippecanoe has great hitters, good defense, setting, and are tough mentally. Interestingly, when asked, about their biggest asset none of the above was mentioned by Carus.
He stated, “Unselfishness. I know it sounds funny but they really do like and respect each other and they prepare hard for every opponent. They study hard and adjust to whatever we ask them to do on the court – and the best part is they are capable of doing it – a true pleasure to work with!”
The path that lies ahead for Tippecanoe is definitely no easy road. A possible match-up with McNicholas in District Finals awaits, as well as a big obstacle in Archbishop Alter in reg
ionals possibly.
“I intentionally tried to add some tougher matches, so I hope it pays off for us. I couldn’t care less about being undefeated or where we are ranked at any point in the season. Is it an honor? Sure, because it is a measure of how far the kids have come,” replied Carus.
The team understands to remain focused and play to their strengths, according to Carus.
“I’m going to go with my short answer here, please forgive me (besides, I don’t want to tip my hand). Our mission is to get better every day. We know others are doing the same thing, getting better every day. We can only control what we do on our side and the game plan for each team as they come along.”
Carus knows his foundation has been paved. The players have the experience of the final four. They have learned what it feels like to come up short. They have defeated every opponent they have faced this year. What will it actually take to get back to the Nutter Center ?
“As a coach in a JO program myself, you get to talk to lots of people from different programs. Two years ago I had the privilege of coaching a great team of kids that included three Alter ladies who had just come off a State Championship season. In talking to them and their parents the underlying themes were hard work, preparation, relentlessness and - a little bit of good luck,” offered Carus.
Luck, in most cases in athletics, usually seems to follow the teams who have prepared the most. Tipp City Tippecanoe has prepared quite a bit, and they seem to be ready to do battle and make their own history for themselves, their community, the fans, and their coach.
--stay tuned for part II of this exclusive in depth look into the Tipp City Tippecanoe program and their mentor Pat Carus
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