JACK NOWLIN Star-Tribune staff writer | Posted: Friday, February 29, 2008 12:00 am
The Jackson girls team has won the past eight Wyoming State High School Alpine Skiing Championships and coach Cody Hansen believes his team is in position to run its streak to nine beginning today at Jackson's Snow King Resort.
"I've got four senior girls who are all top-notch skiers," Hansen said.
Leading the way for the Broncs is Cass Lee, who is seeking her fourth title in as many years. Lee has won the past two slalom competitions, while teammate Lacey Rochford returns to defend her giant slalom title.
Rounding out the Jackson foursome are Britt Miller and Ali Maguire.
Laramie's Erin Niss and Amelia Duell and Natrona County's Megan Deane and Martha Brown could also challenge for individual honors. Kelly Walsh's Katie Ray is also a strong contender for all-state honors.
On the boys side, NC coach Tom Ellbogen expects a stiff challenge from Jackson as the Mustangs seek their third straight state title.
"We have a strong team," Ellbogen said. "If all five of our skiers do well we have a shot at it. But we know Jackson is going to be tough to beat."
Keying the Mustangs' hopes of a three-peat are seniors Ryan Butter and Reed Akin, juniors Austin Deane and Sean Munoz and sophomore Joel Simonson. Akin, Munoz and Deane swept the top three places at the Britt Farr Memorial at Hogadon Ski Area in Casper earlier this season.
Jackson counters with what Hansen calls "our deepest team in years."
The Broncs sport a six-deep roster of Gordon Finnegan, Jamie Brooks, Patrick Finnegan, Alec Jackson, Rob Brennan and Eddie Stewart, with each skier having the potential of a top-five finish, according to Hansen.
"In the past couple of years we've had kids falling down," Hansen said. "This year I think they understand the importance of finishing the race."
While NC and Jackson are considered the favorites in the team race, Pinedale's Luke Johnston could be the top individual. He finished second in last year's giant slalom race.
"He could win both days," Hansen said of the Pinedale senior. "When he finishes he's as fast as anybody in the state."
KW's Derek Munday also figures to be in the running for a top-10 finish.
Contact sports editor Jack Nowlin at (307) 266-0528 or jack.nowlin@trib.com.
Alpine Tracker
WHAT: Wyoming State High School Alpine Skiing Championships.
WHERE: Snow King Mountain, Jackson.
SCHEDULE: Today, giant slalom, 10 a.m.; Saturday, slalom, 10 a.m.