The KHSAA dead period is wrapping up this week, and I, for one, am excited for sports to get rolling again. Each year, I get excited and look forward to the action shots and the fresh start that fall brings. I ask myself the same questions each summer. Will we have a state champion athlete or a state champion team? I am not a betting man, but if Addison Moore is running in a race, I’d take her odds every day.
I’d love to see the stands packed for the local teams because it inspires the athletes to work harder. My cameras have been cleaned and are ready for the action. If we’ve talked on the sidelines before, you know that I try to find the shot that makes the reader feel like they were at the game. I want people to feel something from my work. Sometimes, it doesn’t happen the way I’d like, but there’s something special about fall sports that gets my blood pumping. Let’s start with the obvious choice.
Friday Night Lights are electric in Woodford County these days. When I first started reporting on WCHS sports, that was not the case. Coach Dennis Johnson has turned Friday nights into a must-see environment that feels more like an experience than a ball game, and it all stems from a handful of winning seasons.
From large student sections that are involved with every play of the game to a sideline DJ, there’s plenty of energy at the football games. I miss that energy and am ready to see what this year brings. Let’s not forget the state and national champion cheerleaders that roam the sidelines on Friday nights. Coach Tasha Richardson and her team of coaches will undoubtedly have whipped the team into shape and will be planning another incredible routine for the upcoming competition season. Pay close attention to them at the games. You may be watching the beginnings of another state title run for the Cheer Jackets.
WCHS soccer attendance has been increasing over the last two seasons, and I hope it continues for the teams, as student energy has undoubtedly played a significant role for the home teams. Woodford had a pair of terrific soccer teams last year. The girls’ team returns a significant portion of its roster from last year, with many talented pieces. The boys’ team will be young but entertaining, with returning players having state tournament experience from last fall. As the season approaches, I look forward to all the freeze-frame shots of headers and diving saves.
The Lady Jackets’ volleyball team will open the season in the new WCHS gymnasium. Coach Megan Bottom’s district championship streak ended last year, so the Woodford squad will look to begin a new tradition in its first full year at the new school. Get out there and support the high school volleyball team this year. They work hard and would love to see you at their games.
The Golf Jackets’ events lack the typical sporting event crowd energy due to the game’s etiquette. Get out there and support your local teams. Last year, the team had two state qualifiers and two All-State golfers.
Cross-country events are some of my favorites to cover. Hundreds of spectators line the course with cowbells, whistles, and many words of encouragement as their favorite runners pass on their way to the finish line. The energy is high for the entire race, and it’s a pleasure to be around. Cross country is one of the most attended sports, but they would still like to see more of you at their meets.
With all that said. I miss being out there and telling the stories of our high school teams. In just a few weeks, the action will return and our athletes will be back in black and gold. Golf kicks off the season with events in July, and the remaining sports follow soon after. As I begin writing season previews for the new season, I am filled with anticipation about how our local athletes will measure up to the competition and represent our county with Yellow Jacket pride.