First of all, a big thank you to the athletes and coaches for another great year in local high school sports.

I have the best seat in the house, front row center, taking all those photos and recording all those results. What better way to meet the fine young talented athletes who perform week after week in Ladue and Frontenac.

Thanks for the memories.

The unexpected came early. Villa Duchesne won the state volleyball championships in Cape Girardeau. The school community rejoyced.

There were disappointments to be sure. Both MICDS and John Burroughs reached the Show-Me Bowl championships in the Edward Jones Dome over Thanksgiving weekend, only to end their seasons on a losing note. Both games were well contested and close.

The swimmers had a great year, especially MICDS, Villa Duchense and some surprises out of St. Joseph's Academy including a championship 4 X 200 meter relay. MICDS' Annie Goessling's career was memorable.

Basketball teams came up short. St. Joe missed a trip to Columbia with a quarterfinal lost at UMSL to rival Incarnate Word Academy.

The spring season was better. Burroughs' girls lacrosse team went 17-0 and won the state title. The MICDS boys reached the lacrosse title game, losing to St. Louis U. High. Locals Jehu Chesson, Ladue; Amos Bartelsmeyer, MICDS; and Ezekiel Elliott, Burroughs dazzled the field at the annual state track championships in Jeff City.

The St. Joe soccer team is in Kansas City this weekend for the Final 4 and a shot at another state title.

All in all, it was a great sports seasons for the five local schools. Many athletes performed above and beyond their capabilities. The gold harvest was bountiful.

I for one can't wait for the sound of the football whistle. Practice starts in just two months.