Hear that? That sigh wafting through the breeze comes from every school that is rejoicing now that the Colorado Springs Christian Lions’ sparkling collection of talent has gone to college this season. The Lions still have Morgan Broekhuis to make them salty, but at least the question “Who’s going to win 3A this season?” isn’t a forgone conclusion anymore. Valley, The Classical Academy, Faith Christian and Roosevelt make a top four that appear to have the fewest questions. The programs are solid, the coaches are respected, and the talent is deep and experienced via club ball or playoff runs last season. Each of them also has some legitimate questions to answer, though, and heart-and-soul players to replace. Other perennial powers return, such as Eaton and Platte Valley, while emerging programs such as Holy Family and Gunnison could make a bigger impact with their experience and a more even playing field.
Teams to watch
1. Valley; 2. The Classical Academy; 3. Faith Christian; 4. Roosevelt; 5. Colorado Springs Christian; 6. Eaton; 7. Holy Family; 8. Gunnison; 9. Platte Valley; 10. Basalt.
Returning all-state players
Alex Ball, Colorado Academy, Sr.; Sierra Bennett, Valley, So.; Lydia Blaha, The Classical Academy, Sr.; Morgan Broekhuis, Colorado Springs Christian, So.; Jessica Giltner, Holy Family, Sr.; Kristin Herlihy, Holy Family, Sr.; Sage Martinson, Valley, So.; Elizabeth Paden, Platte Valley, Sr.; Billie Jo McMurren, Valley, So.; Crissy Skokan, Manitou Springs, Sr.; Lauren O’Donnell, Faith Christian, Sr.; Katherine Spicer, Bennett, Sr.; Amber Weingartner, Faith Christian, Sr.; Alea Wildman, The Academy, Sr.
