East High swimmer Jake Spitz joins Joanna Chadwick on the Big Show.

by joanna

Today is the first day basketball, wrestling and swimming/diving teams can start practice. I’m sure there were plenty of early risers for those teams running two-a-day practices. Lots of tired coaches and players.

How excited are you for the start of winter sports? Got a favorite team? Favorite sport? Favorite player?

What are your thoughts on two-a-days?

The East High swimming pool opens.

by joanna

The postseason honors are out for spring sports, which is the clearest sign that a high school sports year has ended.

There were some excellent moments from the past year — what were your favorites? Some of mine are below, but if I left off some key ones, remind me. If you’ve got some memories you want to share, definitely do so.

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by joanna

When Chesley Kilgore transferred from Independent to Trinity, Independent’s prospects at state girls swimming were definitely dimmed. Kilgore went on to win the 50 free on Saturday.

But Independent held its own, too. The Panthers finished second in Class 5-1A.

“I was hoping for top five,” coach Randy McVay said. “I was pleasantly surprised that they did finish second…. They all did swim above themselves. They did really well. They all stepped up. They definitely like competition. They always get up for the state meet.”

The Eagle’s Joanna Chadwick and Chris Elliott chat about the week in high school sports, including tennis, baseball, softball, soccer and more.

by joanna

State swimming and diving is this week. Who’s got a good shot at winning? Teams? Individuals?

This is the second year of splitting swimming into two classes — 6A and 5-1A. This has definitely opened up swimming because it has often been dominated by KC-area schools. Although, does it take away from a swimmer such as Caroline Bruce helping her small school, Trinity, win it all?

What’s your take? Was this move for the best or not?

Joanna Chadwick and Chris Elliott discuss the week in high school spring sports.

by joanna

Check out this week’s swimming notes.

We are not far away from the end of the swimming season — any surprises out there? Any dominating performances?

by joanna

East’s divers gave the Aces the victory over North this week. North won the swimming events but East took the top spots in diving, giving the Aces just enough points for the win. Impressive showing by North against East, which has been dominating in duals this season.

If you missed it today, check out my story on North senior Hannah Silverthorne, who deals with pain any time she swims. Pretty amazing athlete.

What other teams or athletes should we be talking about this season? I’m always looking for notebook items, features or Getting to Know features, so if you want to suggest an athlete or team let me know here or at jchadwick@wichitaeagle.com.