Following is a look at the marquee games and individuals to watch this week in the final rounds of the Class 5A soccer state tournament (Wednesday and Saturday) and the 5A volleyball state tournament (Friday and Saturday).
SOCCER
No. 1 Denver East (18-0) vs. No. 4 Broomfield (15-2-1), Wednesday 5 p.m., Legacy Stadium: The Angels’ three-tiered offensive attack of Max Gottesfeld (19 goals), Sam Carson (17 goals) and Eli Miller (12 goals) will square off in an explosive semifinals showdown against Armando Ocampo (16 goals) and the two-time defending champion Eagles.
No. 2 Boulder (18-0) vs. No. 30 Fossil Ridge (8-9), Wednesday 7 p.m., Legacy Stadium: The Panthers continue their quest for a perfect season following a 2-0 win over upstart Grandview in the quarterfinals, while the low-seeded Sabercats are this year’s RPI Cinderella and are led by senior striker Grant Martinez.
5A state championship, Saturday 3:30 p.m., Dick’s Sporting Goods Park: There will be at least one Front Range League team in the championship for the third consecutive year, just more evidence that it’s the best boys soccer conference in the state.
VOLLEYBALL
5A state volleyball tournament, Friday and Saturday, Denver Coliseum: A dozen teams spread across four pools will duke it out for the title, where regional upset winners such as Highlands Ranch and Legend will contend with the seasoned likes of Chaparral, Chatfield and Cherry Creek and favorites such as Fossil Ridge, Rock Canyon and Fairview. Play begins at 8 a.m. each day, with championship matches for all classes occurring on Saturday at 7 p.m.
