Just about everyone with an opinion has pegged Cherry Creek to win its third consecutive state title. If the Bruins do win it all, and that hinges on replacing the defense, they will match Kent Denver’s state-best total of four titles. The storied East Angels are coming off a runner-up finish and return some potent offensive firepower. Regis coach Jim Soran knows how to win, with his 161-66 record as evidence. He will try to get the Raiders past their quarterfinal finish from a year ago. While four or five elite teams still rule, plenty are on the rise, including Air Academy, Heritage, Columbine, Boulder and Fairview.
SCHEDULE
First games will be played Tuesday; playoffs begin the last week of April; state championship decided May 16.
TEAMS TO WATCH
1. Cherry Creek
2. Kent Denver
3. East
4. Regis
5. Fort Collins
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Attack
Peter Beer, Boulder, Sr.
Ryan Driver, Cherry Creek, Sr.
Joshua Russell, East, Jr.
Midfield
Greyson Konkel, Regis, Jr.
Tyler Morton, Kent Denver, Sr.
Dane Mueller, Cherry Creek, Sr.
Kyle Wollenhaupt, Mullen, Jr.
Goalkeeper
Max Pluss, Kent Denver, Sr.
Mark Stone, Cherry Creek, Sr.
Defense
Tim Van Benthuysen, Regis, Sr.
