Eight straight

Once again Colton girls took the state championship in 1B basketball.

This is the school's eighth straight championship.

The girls have not been unbeatable, but they have been unstoppable.

In fact, they have lost one game in three years.

“Unstoppable” is one word to describe the dynasty. Another is “dominant.”

Remember, this is high school. Every year students graduate and others come in as freshmen. The team is not the same as the one which started the championship streak eight years ago.

Each year the Colton team had a different makeup. And, each year it brought home the state championship.

Eight consecutive championships is a state record, surpassing all teams of both genders. It is a record not likely to be matched soon.

Clark Vining, the Colton coach, has had unprecedented success. He has helped to generate a culture of basketball success. During this championship game, which was up in the air in the first half, he used his bench to help get through the second half. This bodes well for the future.

As a slightly different team takes to the court next year, the legacy of the team and the experience the younger players have garnered promise that Colton will again be in the fray.

Whitman County schools usually do well in sports as they do in academics. Most students are well prepared for their future lives. Many go on to additional schooling after high school.

Athletics is part of that learning process. Cooperation, teamwork and decision making are all part of being successful on a team and in life.

The girls on the Colton High School team can take pride in their accomplishments and look with promise to their futures.

Congratulations.

Gordon Forgey

Publisher