It’s six years and counting since Jeffco has been able to win the big-school state softball title.
After dominating the softball landscape, bringing home the coveted trophy 10 of 11 years from 1993 to 2003, the likes of Loveland, Eaglecrest, Rocky Mountain and most recently Legacy’s three-peat have finished on top in 5A.
However, the fact still remains that Jeffco is the deepest conference in 5A. Six Jeffco teams made it to the 16-team state tournament. Arvada West, Pomona and Ralston Valley all advanced to the quarterfinals. For the 18th straight year Jeffco had a representative in the big-school title game.
I believe there is hope that next year could be the season when Jeffco brings back home the 5A state title. I’ve covered the past dozen state softball tournaments, and from what I saw Friday and Saturday, Oct. 23 and 24, at Aurora Sports Park. the returning talent and desire to win a state title will change the trend.
Ralston Valley coach Wendy Davies is the only coach the Mustangs have ever had since the school opened. The Mustangs have also had one of the most consistent programs in the state over the last decade, winning 4A titles in 2002 and 2007 before moving up to 5A last year.
Arvada West has returned to the top tier after going through some coaching changes over the last six seasons. Keep an eye on junior Erica Haugum. She led the Wildcats in home runs, hits and RBI this season.
Pomona will have pitcher Kelsey Kimminau back to give the Panthers a solid shot to win a league title.
Lakewood, which has a rich tradition winning the school’s only girls state team titles in 1997 and 1998, will also have its ace back in Kylie Pierce.
Green Mountain had a revival this season under second-year coach Danny Abrams. The Rams bring back a ton of returning talent, including the pitching tandem of Emily Canaday and Kristyn Peters.
The drought will end next year. I guarantee it.