Laurel Quinn, left, and King's Way Christian are seeking their second consecutive postseason berth. With one fewer District 4 berth to the regional round of the state playoffs, that will be tougher than last season. (Alisha Jucevic/The Columbian)Photo Gallery
With only two regional spots coming out of District 4 this season, the 1A Trico League will become mighty important for the six teams that compose it. Seeding, with Elma and Montesano lurking from the Evergreen Conference, could play a big part in determining whether an extended postseason run is in the works.
That will particularly be the case for King’s Way Christian, which has the pieces to qualify for regionals for the second straight season. Abby Cummins, coming off a stellar volleyball season, is the favorite for league MVP. Combined with Laurel Quinn and a pair of transfers, the Knights will have no problems reloading.
“We believe we can be the No. 1 in league,” King’s Way coach Randy Graves said. “But it’s going to be really tough getting out of districts.”
Behind the Knights, things get a little more interesting. Stevenson returns a pair of all-league picks from a second-place finish last season and has a chance to challenge King’s Way atop the league.
La Center, which is possibly the youngest team coach Herm VanWeerdhuizen has ever had, can’t be counted out yet. The Wildcats frequently find ways to rebuild but with Taylor Stephens departed, La Center might take some early lumps before finding its way.
“I hope we’re ready to go against league,” VanWeerdhuizen said. “The league is wide open this year.”
La Center’s rebuild could open the door for a team like Seton Catholic, which has several rangy defenders in first-year coach Phil Kent’s defense-first system. With all-league point guard Jasmine Morgan returning before league play begins, the Cougars could be dangerous. A youthful Columbia-White Salmon squad impressed coaches this offseason and Castle Rock is led by talented point guard Brooke Wirkkala.
Projected finish
Picks by Columbian sports staff
1. King’s Way Christian — Abby Cummins will star as the Knights seek a repeat run through league.
2. Stevenson — The Bulldogs have the talent to compete for a league crown.
3. La Center — One of Herm VanWeerdhuizen’s youngest teams ever has plenty of work to do.
4. Seton Catholic — Defense-first squad is long enough to give teams trouble.
5. Columbia — The Bruins are young but impressed this offseason.
6. Castle Rock — Brooke Wirkkala is a star, but it takes more than one.
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