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Sports Goulash

Odds and ends of Wyoming high school sports.

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Official 1A-2A state and projected 3A-4A regional pairings

Posted by: Patrick Schmiedt on February 23, 2008 at 11:07PM EST

Updated 4 p.m. Sunday. Saratoga defeated Kaycee in the 1A boys East Regional championship on Saturday; incorrect information was supplied to the Star-Tribune.

Official Class 2A-1A state tournament pairings and game times

BOYS
Class 2A
Thursday
Wind River (1W, 27-0) vs. Guernsey (4E, 15-9), noon, CC
Lusk (2E, 22-3) vs. Thermopolis (3W, 15-12), 1:30 p.m., CC
Sundance (1E, 18-4) vs. Riverside (4W, 9-16), 7:30 p.m., CC
Wyoming Indian (2W, 19-8) vs. Tongue River (3E, 18-8), 9 p.m., CC
Friday
Lusk-Thermopolis loser vs. Wind River-Guernsey loser, noon, EC
Sundance-Riverside loser vs. Wyoming Indian-Tongue River loser, 1:30 p.m., EC
Lusk-Thermopolis winner vs. Wind River-Guernsey winner, 7:30 p.m., EC
Sundance-Riverside winner vs. Wyoming Indian-Tongue River winner, 9 p.m., EC
Saturday
Consolation final, noon, CC
Third place, 3 p.m., CC
Championship, after 1A Boys, EC

Class 1A
Thursday
Burlington (1W, 21-2) vs. Midwest (4E, 14-10), 9 a.m., CC
Kaycee (2E, 21-4) vs. Encampment (3W, 22-3), 10:30 a.m., CC
Saratoga (1E, 17-2) vs. Snake River (4W, 15-9), 4:30 p.m., CC
Hanna (2W, 12-11) vs. Southeast (3E, 11-13), 6 p.m., CC
Friday
Burlington-Midwest loser vs. Saratoga-Encampment loser, 9 a.m., EC
Kaycee-Snake River loser vs. Hanna-Southeast loser, 10:30 a.m., EC
Burlington-Midwest winner vs. Saratoga-Encampment winner, 4:30 p.m., EC
Kaycee-Snake River winner vs. Hanna-Southeast winner, 6 p.m., EC
Saturday
Consolation final, 9 a.m., EC
Third place, 10:30 a.m., EC
Championship, after 2A Girls, EC

GIRLS
Class 2A
Thursday
Tongue River (1E, 19-6) vs. Riverside (4W, 11-14), 9 a.m., EC
Thermopolis (2W, 16-11) vs. Wright (3E, 17-10), 10:30 a.m., EC
Mountain View (1W, 18-5) vs. Burns (4E, 13-10), 4:30 p.m., EC
Big Horn (2E, 19-3) vs. Wyoming Indian (3W, 21-7), 6 p.m., EC
Friday
Tongue River-Riverside loser vs. Thermopolis-Wright loser, 9 a.m., EC
Mountain View-Burns loser vs. Big Horn-Wyoming Indian loser, 10:30 a.m., EC
Tongue River-Riverside winner vs. Thermopolis-Wright winner, 4:30 p.m., EC
Mountain View-Burns winner vs. Big Horn-Wyoming Indian winner, 6 p.m., EC
Saturday
Consolation final, 9 a.m., CC
Third place, 10:30 a.m., CC
Championship, after 1A Girls, EC

Class 1A
Thursday
Burlington (1W, 23-1) vs. Hulett (4E, 13-11), noon, EC
Arvada-Clearmont (2E, 21-2) vs. Cokeville (3W, 19-3), 1:30 p.m., EC
St. Stephens (2W, 23-6) vs. Kaycee (3E, 12-11), 7:30 p.m., EC
Southeast (1E, 21-2) vs. Ten Sleep (4W, 13-9), 9 p.m., EC
Friday
Burlington-Hulett loser vs. Arvada-Clearmont-Cokeville loser, noon, EC
St. Stephens-Kaycee loser vs. Southeast-Ten Sleep loser, 1:30 p.m., EC
Burlington-Hulett winner vs. Arvada-Clearmont-Cokeville winner, 7:30 p.m., EC
St. Stephens-Kaycee winner vs. Southeast-Ten Sleep winner, 9 p.m., EC
Saturday
Consolation final, noon, EC
Third place, 1:30 p.m., CC
Championship, 3:30 p.m., EC

Projected Class 4A-3A regional tournament pairings
Official pairings will be released by the WHSAA Sunday or Monday

BOYS
Class 4A East Regional
At Cheyenne Central HS
Thursday
Game 1: (3) Cheyenne East vs. (6) Riverton, 5:15 p.m., loser out
Game 2: (4) Laramie vs. (5) Sheridan, 9 p.m., loser out
Friday
Game 3: (2) Cheyenne Central vs. Game 1 winner, 5:15 p.m.
Game 4: (1) Gillette vs. Game 2 winner, 9 p.m.
Saturday
Game 5: Game 3 loser vs. Game 4 loser, 11:45 a.m.
Game 6: Championship, Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner, 3:30 p.m.

Class 4A West Regional
At Evanston HS
Thursday
Game 1: (3) Rock Springs vs. (6) Star Valley, 5:15 p.m.
Game 2: (4) Evanston vs. (5) Kelly Walsh, 8:45 p.m.
Friday
Game 3: (2) Green River vs. Game 1 winner, 5:15 p.m.
Game 4: (1) Natrona County vs. Game 2 winner, 8:45 p.m.
Saturday
Game 5: Game 3 loser vs. Game 4 loser, 11:45 a.m.
Game 6: Championship, Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner, 3:15 p.m.

Class 3A East Regional
At Glenrock High School
Thursday
Game 1: (3) Newcastle vs. (6) Rawlins, 8:30 a.m.
Game 2: (2) Wheatland vs. (7) Douglas, 12:15 p.m.
Game 3: (4) Lander vs. (5) Torrington, 4 p.m.
Game 4: (1) Buffalo vs. (8) Glenrock, 7 p.m.
Friday
Game 5: Game 1 loser vs. Game 2 loser, 8:30 a.m., loser out
Game 6: Game 3 loser vs. Game 4 loser, 12:15 p.m., loser out
Game 7: Game 1 winner vs. Game 2 winner, 4 p.m.
Game 8: Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner, 7 p.m.
Saturday
Game 9: Game 6 winner vs. Game 7 loser, 8:30 a.m., loser out
Game 10: Game 5 winner vs. Game 8 loser, 10:15 a.m., loser out
Game 11: Game 9 winner vs. Game 10 winner, 4 p.m.
Game 12: Championship, Game 7 winner vs. Game 8 winner, 7 p.m.

Class 3A West Regional
At Pinedale High School
Thursday
Game 1: (1) Lovell vs. (8) Lyman, 10:30 a.m.
Game 2: (4) Kemmerer vs. (5) Cody, 2 p.m.
Game 3: (3) Pinedale vs. (6) Worland, 5:30 p.m.
Game 4: (2) Powell vs. (7) Jackson, 8:30 p.m.
(Pinedale boys will play the late game on Thursday regardless of seeding.)
Friday
Game 5: Game 1 loser vs. Game 2 loser, 10:30 a.m., loser out
Game 6: Game 3 loser vs. Game 4 loser, 2 p.m., loser out
Game 7: Game 1 winner vs. Game 2 winner, 5:30 p.m.
Game 8: Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner, 8:30 p.m.
Saturday
Game 9: Game 6 winner vs. Game 7 loser, 11:30 a.m., loser out
Game 10: Game 5 winner vs. Game 8 loser, 1 p.m., loser out
Game 11: Game 9 winner vs. Game 10 winner, 5:30 p.m.
Game 12: Championship, Game 7 winner vs. Game 8 winner, 8:30 p.m.

GIRLS
Class 4A East Regional
At Cheyenne Central HS
Thursday
Game 1: (3) Cheyenne Central vs. (6) Laramie, 3:30 p.m., loser out
Game 2: (4) Cheyenne East vs. (5) Riverton, 7:15 p.m., loser out
Friday
Game 3: (2) Sheridan vs. Game 1 winner, 3:30 p.m.
Game 4: (1) Gillette vs. Game 2 winner, 7:15 p.m.
Saturday
Game 5: Game 3 loser vs. Game 4 loser, 10 a.m.
Game 6: Championship, Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner, 1:45 p.m.

Class 4A West Regional
At Evanston HS
Thursday
Game 1: (3) Evanston vs. (6) Star Valley, 3:30 p.m., loser out
Game 2: (4) Green River vs. (5) Kelly Walsh, 7 p.m., loser out
Friday
Game 3: (2) Rock Springs vs. Game 1 winner, 3:30 p.m.
Game 4: (1) Natrona County vs. Game 2 winner, 7 p.m.
Saturday
Game 5: Game 3 loser vs. Game 4 loser, 10 a.m.
Game 6: Championship, Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner, 1:30 p.m.

Class 3A East Regional
At Glenrock High School
Thursday
Game 1: (3) Glenrock vs. (6) Lander, 10:15 a.m.
Game 2: (2) Douglas vs. (7) Wheatland, 2 p.m.
Game 3: (4) Newcastle vs. (5) Buffalo, 5:30 p.m.
Game 4: (1) Torrington vs. (8) Rawlins, 8:30 p.m.
Friday
Game 5: Game 1 loser vs. Game 2 loser, 10:15 a.m., loser out
Game 6: Game 3 loser vs. Game 4 loser, 2 p.m., loser out
Game 7: Game 1 winner vs. Game 2 winner, 5:30 p.m.
Game 8: Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner, 8:30 p.m.
Saturday
Game 9: Game 6 winner vs. Game 7 loser, 12:15 p.m., loser out
Game 10: Game 5 winner vs. Game 8 loser, 2 p.m., loser out
Game 11: Game 9 winner vs. Game 10 winner, 5:30 p.m.
Game 12: Championship, Game 7 winner vs. Game 8 winner, 8:30 p.m.

Class 3A West Regional
At Pinedale High School
Thursday
Game 1: (1) Jackson vs. (8) Kemmerer, 9 a.m.
Game 2: (4) Powell vs. (5) Cody, 12:30 p.m.
Game 3: (3) Worland vs. (6) Lyman, 4 p.m.
Game 4: (2) Lovell vs. (7) Pinedale, 7 p.m.
(Pinedale girls will play the late game on Thursday regardless of seeding.)
Friday
Game 5: Game 1 loser vs. Game 2 loser, 9 a.m., loser out
Game 6: Game 3 loser vs. Game 4 loser, 12:30 p.m., loser out
Game 7: Game 1 winner vs. Game 2 winner, 4 p.m.
Game 8: Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner, 7 p.m.
Saturday
Game 9: Game 6 winner vs. Game 7 loser, 8:30 a.m., loser out
Game 10: Game 5 winner vs. Game 8 loser, 10 a.m., loser out
Game 11: Game 9 winner vs. Game 10 winner, 4 p.m.
Game 12: Championship, Game 7 winner vs. Game 8 winner, 7 p.m.

Send This | Categories: Basketball

(122) Comments

Posted by: HS Sports Fan on February 24, 2008 2:07AM EST

Who came up with the plan to play all boys games at one venue and all girls at the other for the state bball tournaments? What is the reasoning behind this idea? Doesn't really make much sense as I see it right now!

Posted by: Scott on February 24, 2008 10:10AM EST

If you have attended games at Casper College during semi final rounds, there has been a problem with over crowding. Girls and Boys teams from the same town playing at different times and their fans staying for games in between. This caused many problems with other fans trying to watch their teams playing and led to many heated discussions. I applaud Mr. Laird for addressing the problem and trying to come up with a solution.

Posted by: HS Sports Fan on February 24, 2008 10:15AM EST

Thanks for the information. Makes more sense now, but will still make it difficult for me to follow all the basketball in the class of my choosing!!!

Posted by: JA on February 24, 2008 2:28PM EST

Really anxious to see how the Boys 3A East shakes its self out. This past weekend was a pretty wild one and shows that the Tourney this weekend is still up for grabs. Douglas dropped from 3rd to 7th in the seedings while Newcastle and Torrington moved from 6th and 7th up to 3rd and 4th respectively. Wheatland dropped both of its games this weekend to Newc and Torrington, but had done enough early not to slip. I'm not sure there is a team in the Region to over look and it should set up for a pretty exciting weekend.

Posted by: Bulldog Fan on February 24, 2008 6:31PM EST

Well, here we are again. I purchased 3 Casper papers to read about the 2A/1A basketball regionals and not an article one. Nothing in Friday, Saturday or Sunday. I may as well have thrown my quarters down the drain. This happens so often. I have called and written 2 other times about this and I know many people who have done the same. We get no where. In fact no one would even talk to one guy who called in. C'mon Trib, certainly you can spare someone an hour to write a small article about some of the games. Even if you picked one game a day. We certainly got to see a lot about 3A/4A final season games. All of you small school fans help me out here!!

Posted by: Another Bulldog Fan on February 24, 2008 7:03PM EST

Yeah, I agree on the small schools not getting enough coverage in the Trib. I also bought Casper papers over the weekend and saw no coverage of the 1A and 2A games other than scores. Nothing new here. Last Spring, Sundance REPEATED as 2A State Champs in track and there was no acknowledgment in the way of a headline or article in the Star Trib that Sundance had even won the State Championship, let alone had repeated. I emailed the sports department and got the same old song and dance about limited space, time restraints, blah blah blah. Whenever I get the occasional phone calls from the Star Trib distribution department asking me to subscribe, I always let them know that when they start giving Northeast Wyoming more sports reporting and coverage, I will consider subscribing. Until then, I'll read the Rapid City Journal. They give more coverage to schools in our area than the Trib does, even though they are out of state schools for the Journal.

Posted by: Wyo Basketball Fan on February 24, 2008 7:32PM EST

How about 3A boys basketball? Looking at both the East and West. No one team really looks to run away with the regional championship? Buffalo will be challenged by Wheatland and Newcastle on the East side. The West side will be a fight just to get in the top 4 teams and make it to state. Teams 1-6 in the West have a good shot at making it to state....should be an exciting weekend. Good Luck to all the teams.

Posted by: Kevin Williams on February 24, 2008 7:48PM EST

I'm sure it is frustrating for both the fans, teams and the sports staff at the Star-Tribune to try to satisfy all of the wants and desires from the self proclaimed state wide newspaper. Let's try to be somewhat fair to the folks at the Tribune. This weekend they had State Championship events in Wrestling, Nordic Skiing, and Boys Swimming and Diving to try to cover, as well as home basketball games by Casper's two high schools and then throw in the scores updated from the 1A/2A Regionals. It has to be a daunting task. I know that I sometimes feel frustrated over the coverage in the Star-Tribune myself, then I try to take a deep breath and try to "walk a mile in their moccasins." I keep quite a few other Wyoming papers plus the Rapid City Journal, and Billings Gazette bookmarked on the internet to check out stories from around the state and the region. Considering the number on staff and what they are trying to do, it is probably nigh on impossible to make everyone happy, even me, at times, and I live here.

Posted by: Bulldog Fan on February 24, 2008 9:06PM EST

I totally agree that there was a lot going on this weekend, but is the last week of the season really more important than a regional event? Evidently so. I think it should at least be equal. I'm willing to bet that the 3A/4A regional event will get coverage. Maybe some of us should start writing our own articles and sending them in. Maybe this will help them out a little since they appear to be so strapped. I realize I sound a little insensitive to their problem, but I am not only interested in our neck of the woods, but would have loved some insite into the west teams. All I'm suggesting is "some" coverage. We saw scores only, not even any stats.

Posted by: Eaglesfan on February 24, 2008 9:09PM EST

Why couldn't the "self-proclaimed state wide paper" ask some of the smaller papers for help. Maybe have their reporter share reports and a picture or two. Radio stations do this all the time. It may cost the tribune a few dollars, but look at the return when all of us small towners buy their paper. Patrick, you should feel our pain, because I hardly ever see Midwest in your paper and they are part of the Casper school system. Plus, they probably could beat Kelly Walsh. Oh, how soon we forget where we came from.

Posted by: Patrick Schmiedt on February 25, 2008 12:10AM EST

Company line: We strive to cover as many events as we can, but with a small staff and a ton of events on a busy weekend, we simply can't cover them all. We appreciate your continued understanding and support as we try to cover sports in Wyoming with the depth and breadth you've come to expect from Wyoming's largest media voice.

Personal line: Since some of you have decided to personally attack me, I feel like I do have to take a step to defend myself. First of all... no stats? Bull. http://www.trib.com/articles/2008/02/24/sports/high_school/46fc6b0d44d62fcd872573f90012d2dc.txt
Find me anyone, anywhere, who has that kind of depth and that kind of reach on Wyoming high school sports on the busiest Saturday night of the year.
And the fact that you think "certainly you can spare someone an hour to write a small article about some of the games" only exposes your complete ignorance of what I do. I busted my you-know-what to do all I did this weekend, but the thing is, writing is not what we do here. We have to meet insane deadlines with page layout, tone all our own photos, send our own plates to the press, export stories to trib.com, proofread stories as we receive them, proofread pages as we prepare to send them to plate, send updates to our Web folks so they can post them live on trib.com.... the list goes on. I worked nearly 12 hours on Saturday and the longest break I had was a minute -- and that was only when the Diet Pepsi finally made its way through my system. Dinner break? Yeah right.
Bottom line, you won't get high school sports coverage any better or any deeper statewide than you'll get it from here. And you know it. I'm busting my hump right now, and I think we're doing some awesome work.
If you don't like what we do in the sports section, PLEASE call my editor, Clark Walworth, at (307) 266-0545. If enough of you call, I'll get fired, and then you'll get someone in here to give you the kind of high school sports coverage you deserve.... Right?

--patrick

Posted by: Bulldog Fan on February 25, 2008 9:10AM EST

Patrick, I don't think getting you fired is the answer even if we wanted to.(and I don't) I think you do an awesome job and I'm sorry if you felt this was a personal attack on you. It wasn't. We (the readers) are not getting what we want. The solution is to get some help on the "big" weekends. I know that is not neccessarily your call. There have been several suggestions made right here(from other papers, fans) I realize that there is more to a story than just someone sending in an article, but if you had one extra person there and got information from outside it might be doable. I do know what goes into making a paper. It's just that the 1A/2A are consistantly the ones who bear the brunt of the lack of coverage. That's what I was complaining about. I'm sure that if you left 4A totally out of the paper you probably would get fired. All I'm asking is that we get some coverage for our major events. 3A/4A gets coverage every week for regular season games. Sorry if I touched a nerve, but this is an on going problem and pet peeve of mine that never seems to get resolved.

Posted by: #1 Eagles Fan on February 25, 2008 10:23AM EST

Bulldog fan, I understand what you are saying but it would be a huge undertaking trying to cover EVERYTHING. It could be worse. In the Sheridan area we have a newspaper that won't even give decent coverage to one of the locals. Granted, the main coverage should go to Sheridan Broncs and Lady Broncs. They have great kids and good programs. One would think that an "award winning" newspaper could give a little better coverage of a local team. I don't even have any kids in school but love to pick up the paper and read about how the teams did. This last weekend I couldn't hardly find the scores! And today...I'm sure I will read how the TR Lady Eagles squeaked past the Big Horn Lady Rams but in reality, it was one of the best comebacks in 2A Lady Basketball.

Posted by: bobcat fan on February 25, 2008 3:33PM EST

go basketball.

Posted by: JA on February 25, 2008 4:19PM EST

I would even go as far to blame your coach or AD for not getting stats and scores into the Trib. You can't expect full page layouts on regional games when you have the State Wrestling Tourney, that includes 2 four-time State Champs, a handful of 3 timers, and a very couragous kids from Star Valley wrestling three weeks after he lost both his parents... I'm pretty sure those right there are more news worthy than the 1A/2A regionals. Covering an event with around 650 participants and over 400 matches in a three day period is a pretty rediculous feat in its self. I applaud the Trib and there work throughout the last two weeks and wish them luck luck during the next two.

Bulldog fans, I'm sure you will get your coverage this weekend when you, the rest of 2A and 1A will be on center stage.

Posted by: Joey Bob on February 25, 2008 4:23PM EST

i dont know about all you guys... but the Lovell Lady Dogs are going to kick some toosh at regionals!!! Bark Bark!
Go Dogs!!!

Posted by: fishmaster on February 25, 2008 4:48PM EST

How does it work that Pinedale gets to play the late games at their regional no matter what seed they are? No other regional hosts set this up that way? Wouldn't that put other teams at a disadvantage as it gets a bigger crowd there for Pinedale by having them later in the evening? Just wondering......I notice that the 8:30 am game in Glenrock has the host team's girls playing....I bet that they would like to play the late game in front a a big crowd as well!?!?

Posted by: retired coach on February 25, 2008 5:04PM EST

Bulldog Fan and Another Bulldog Fan: How's the coverage in the Sundance Times? When I coached in Sundance in the 70's and 80's coaches had to write up every game and get the articles turned in so the Times would print something about Bulldog sports.

It never ceases to amaze me what a versatile group of writers we seem to have on this blog. They profess to be able to do everyone's job. They are AD's, coaches, referees and now sports writers. Some (not all) can't write a complete sentence or spell correctly. ( It's double not doable) I'm sure your English teachers repeatedly told you to proof read your work.

There are approximately 50 1A/2A schools, which translates to approximately 100 teams to cover during the regional tournaments. I'm sure all schools want special coverage, but obviously that isn't possible. The three state championships that did have the culmination of their seasons did deserve top billing this past weekend. The 1A/2A classes will get their coverage this weekend.

Do any of you ever read the letters to the editor. Many of the KW and NC parents/fans write to complain about column inches and the size of pictures or front and second page coverage. It's ludicrous.

Oh, by the way, I'll be announcing at both state basketball tournaments and I am fully prepared for some of you to come and do my job too.

Posted by: wyofloater on February 25, 2008 5:11PM EST

fishmaster: Good question. Playing at home is a huge advantage already and then you get to load up the crowd as well? Seems like the rule should be the same in all classes and regions.

Regarding Trib sports coverage: If you really feel something is missing, be part of the solution. In addition to this site there are outlets like Wyopreps.com where you can contribute articles and results. I don't see how Patrick should feel obligated to generate as much paper and ink as possible..

Posted by: Mick on February 25, 2008 6:57PM EST

I guess we've been pretty lucky with the CST. They have been very kind to our children (personally) over the years in the coverage of their athletics. We're from Tongue River and feel that especially during the State events the coverage has been excellent. There is no way to cover all the regional events. The CST did a brother/sister article on our kids last year at state that we still proudly look at now and again. They do an excellent job of covering the state events and I thought a pretty darn good job of covering the football season. I wish our local paper did half as well.

Posted by: Bulldog Fan on February 25, 2008 8:07PM EST

OK, so I am one of the few that seems to be bothered by the lack of coverage. Just wanted to know how other people felt and now I do. So, we can move on. The Sundance Times always has an article. Some weeks are better than others. They have pictures sent to them by parents or they take their own and the coaches provide the stats. Over the years there have been parents writing articles and sometimes just interested fans. Last year there was a designated sports reporter. This year it has been pretty minimal. I have been one of those writers at times. They have always been receptive of items or articles sent to them. Not saying that the Trib wouldn't be if stuff was provided. Retired coach: The word is doable(able to be done).

Posted by: Bulldog on February 25, 2008 9:24PM EST

wyofloater- good point they shouldn't be able to home court advantage and than have the late game. By then people are gonna be off work, and the gym will be loaded with Pinedale fans. Well good luck to the teams at regionals, and GO DOGS!

Posted by: Chris Gray on February 25, 2008 11:16PM EST

JA; Looking like a very exciting regionals this weekend!! Just wish I could make it!! Tell all I say "hi!" (Have your fam. come watch us play the "Harlem Ambassadors" again, we have their number this time!) Patrick; you go, bro! You guys do a great job there, now if you could recruit a few more carriers here in Newcastle to help the one we have that delivers for the whole town....Also, great piece about Terry Rolfe, I didn't realize how terrific he was until I read your blog (nothing against our local paper, I probably just missed it is all!!) Anyway, heres to both men & women Dogies gearing up, & peaking now to get to state & make some noise, then I will have an excuse to get to Casper next weekend!! Go Dogies!! (See ya' there Fishy!!!)

Posted by: retired coach on February 25, 2008 11:34PM EST

Bulldog Fan: I stand corrected, my mistake.

Although doubling high school sports coordinators would make two of them.

Posted by: Bulldog Fan on February 26, 2008 1:17AM EST

I know there was some discussion on this blog about 2/3 refs. Can't remember what was said for sure, but I thought there would be 3 at Regionals. We had 3 most of the season, but only 2 at Regionals. Will there only be 2 at State? Heard some people in Douglas talking about not having enough to have 3 for every game.

Posted by: Cory on February 26, 2008 1:46AM EST

Bulldog fan- you got the Tigers good last Saturday night but there is no kind draw at state. Tough roads ahead for a third matchup.
Im sure the number of officials is a problem this time of year, but we sure could have used three at some of the regional games i saw.
As fun as the 2A brackets are going to be, the 1A picks are pretty tough too. Kaycee/Encampment for a first round game- ARE YOU SERIOUS! and the winner gets Burlington perhaps! Arvada-Clearmont and the Cokeville girls is another good one.
lets quit talking about coverage and get some real talk goin--like predictions and thoughts on the 2A and 1A STATE TOURNAMENT.
It's the best time of year to be a hoops fan!

Posted by: Bulldog Fan on February 26, 2008 1:56AM EST

I know who I WANT to win....I am too superstitious to make any predictions as far as we go, but I will go out on a limb and say that I think the TR Eagles can pull off that win against Wyoming Indian. I will definitely stay in the stands after our game to see that matchup. Mind you this prediction is without very much knowledge of the Chiefs team. I know they are good and I am looking forward to seeing them play.

Posted by: Officials on February 26, 2008 2:14AM EST

Bulldog Fan- There will only be 2 officials for regional and state games this year 2008. However the 2009 regional and state will feature 3-man officiating crews, as well as the majority of regular season games.

Posted by: Cory on February 26, 2008 2:16AM EST

Wyo Indian is kindof like Duke. if they're in the tournament, then you don't want to play them.
TR's Johnson is the kind of player that can carry a team for three days. Can the team keep up?
2A girls picks- round 4 TR/BH in the title game.

Posted by: Bulldog Fan on February 26, 2008 2:29AM EST

Thanks for the info on the officials. I don't doubt what you are saying about the Chiefs, Cory. Can the TR team keep up?.....they're going to have to. I will go with you on the 2A girls, but I think this time BH will win. Hate to say it, but the T on Big Horn was huge. I think they may have pulled that game out if it wasn't for that.

Posted by: Scott on February 26, 2008 8:50AM EST

That is interesting how Pinedale got the late game thursday. Every regionals I can remember it is the #1 seed gets the late game. Even though I don't think they stand a chance against Lovell unless they have improved since I saw them play at the beginning of the season. In the 3A East girls bracket, I think it is anybody's taking. Torrington is of course the favorite but teams have been getting closer to them all season and I predict them going down at regionals. Watch out for a scrappy Buffalo team playing without star Kelly Jones.

Posted by: Scott on February 26, 2008 8:55AM EST

Does anyone know anything about a Wheatland boys player being ejected from a game over the weekend and having to serve a suspension during regionals?

Posted by: fishmaster on February 26, 2008 9:45AM EST

Good luck with the "Ambassadors" Mr. Gray. Maybe they have a new selection of dunks and other goofiness! Hopefully we will see you in Casper.
As for Scott.....we shall see about the lady Blazers.....we shall see. Buffalo will have to get past Mr. Gray's beloved Dogies first.

Posted by: Brady on February 26, 2008 10:24AM EST

I would also like to hear more about Wheatland's player getting ejected at Newcastle. I heard he deliberately took out Newc's top player. Would love to hear another first hand account. I can't believe Mick C. would put up with this kind of behavior from one of his players, but people change. Please, Mick, say it isn't so.

Posted by: werb15 on February 26, 2008 10:36AM EST

Scott, actually for as long as i can remember the hosting team got the late game. Last year Lander played late, and the year before that Kemmerer played late. I don't know if the hosting team gets the choice or not, but they always get first dibs. In the East Glenrock plays Buffalo who is #1, but they also get to play the late game since they are hosting

Posted by: 234fan on February 26, 2008 10:53AM EST

Wind River Boys Basketball All the Way

Posted by: fishmaster on February 26, 2008 10:53AM EST

Werb - glenrock is only in the late game by seeding. It is always the 1-8 game late (no matter who is in it) in the 3A east. The Glenrock girls have to play at 10 am because they are the 3-6 game. They don't get to pick and choose when they play like the west side.

Posted by: Host Team on February 26, 2008 10:59AM EST

It must just be a 3A West thing for the hosting team to get the late game. On the East side Glenrock girls play at 10:15am and the Glenrock boys play the late game only becuase they are the #8 seed play #1 Buffalo. Both #1's Buffalo and Torrington play the late game on the East. The #1's on the west Lovell plays at 10:30am and Jackson plays at 9:00am. I don't think it will affect either team but Pinedale may benefit.

Posted by: #1 Eagles Fan on February 26, 2008 11:21AM EST

I was right on about the coverage the Tongue River Lady Eagles would get about beating the Big Horn Lady Rams. The game was played Saturday evening, the reporter would have all day Sunday and Monday morning to gather some info, facts, stats. Perhaps some quotes from the coaches.... There was a tiny 170 word article (50 of which talked about when and whom they play next) in the bottom right hand corner of the mighty Sheridan Press. Believe me if the Rams had won, it would have been on the front page. Oh well. I probably should be writing to them instead of this format. I think Patrick and the staff at the CST deserves medals for all they accomplish.

Posted by: Big Fan on February 26, 2008 11:51AM EST

Bulldog Fan, I agree with you that the technical on the Big Horn coach was really big. The whole 4th quarter the TR team was just on the verge of getting over the hump and the "T" did just that. The coach had been barking at the refs the whole game but it was not warranted. The officials were not biased at all. I think the coach started paying more attention to them than his own team. It was a great comeback for the TR team. We were just waiting for your game not really expecting a close game after watching both teams the previous day. TR looked sloppy and BH looked good. I guess you never know. The Eagle was very entertaining and the action of that one Big Horn player, I think her name was Perkens, of throwing his gloves off the floor was a sign of extremely poor sportsmanship and showed a lack of class. She could have played harder and better and maybe made a difference. Good luck to all teams at Casper.

Posted by: dawgfan on February 26, 2008 1:24PM EST

Brady- The wheatland player did not deliberately take out the newcastle player. it was a foul but (NOT A HARD FOUL)how can a 5' 9" player take out someone 6'5" when the player did not even go to the ground. it was called an intentional foul but the newcastle coach stormed the court and was yelling at the officials to eject the player, so the official listened to the coach. The officials let this game get out of hand from the beginning and since I heard that a least one of the officials used to teach in newcastle (now in buffalo) that is very unfair for any team to go through. I saw the officials before the game shaking hands with fans and talking with the newcastle players, so much about being fair. I have also heard that a newcastle player will be punished for taunting. the officials are to blame letting this get out of hand

Posted by: JA on February 26, 2008 1:59PM EST

Correct me if I'm wrong but doesn't the kid from Wheatland have to sit out Wheatlands first two games of the tourney??? If so losing you leading scorer for those two games could be pretty detrimental to that squad who just lost their last 3 games. If Newcastle can get past the pesky Outlaws and Wheatland avoids another upset from a 7 seed(Douglas), the two would meet up in the semi's in what has got to be a pretty heated/emotional match-up...

Posted by: fishmaster on February 26, 2008 2:08PM EST

good point JA.......the 2-3 of the semis could be real interesting if the seeds hold true. Newc/Wheat boys in the crazy rematch and Glenrock/Douglas girls (no love there!!) Could be an interesting evening. We'll see you down there eh?

Posted by: JA on February 26, 2008 2:14PM EST

Its actually very easy for a 5'9" player to take out someone whose 6'5". In fact I've seen a player from Wheatland do the same thing against Buffalo earlier this season. Taller player having a great game goes up, shorter players under cuts him at the knees taking his legs clear out from underneath him causing him to take a hard fall. This occurance actually happened in Wheatland and there was no whistle to be heard. The ref that I assume you are talking about was probably talking to his aunt and other family who live in Newcastle. He actually grew up and still lives in Buffalo and is not a teacher. Perhaps you have him mistaken with his father.

Posted by: JA on February 26, 2008 2:15PM EST

For sure and Good Luck FISHY!!!

Posted by: Bulldog Fan on February 26, 2008 2:33PM EST

Big Fan..I agree that the player that threw the gloves was out of line(frustration, I'm sure). But, there were events that led up to that. In an earlier game the Eagle(mascot) stood at the end of the gym and "mooned" players that were shooting free throws. The Eagle did that on the first free throw in the BH/TR game and the refs put a stop to it(as they should have). The band for TR picked out a player on the BH team and whenever she had the ball they were chanting. I was told this happened the last time they played, too.(same girl) The TR band also did this to Cody Emrick during the Sundance/TR game at TR and at Regionals. I'm all in favor of supporting your team, but there is a lot said before each game about sportsmanship and I think it should be expected. During one of our games(not TR) there were people(high school kids) from the opposing team sitting behind some of the Sundance parents. They were saying unkind things about one of the players and they happened to be behind that kid's parents. They were embarrassed into moving by another parent. I am not trying to single out any one group here. These were just things that I noticed while watching the games. I know there were other instances with other team's fans. I don't know whose responsibility it is to handle this type of thing, but I think we should all show respect to each team. Yell, scream and holler for your team, but don't be disrespectful to the other team. (only the refs) Don't beat me up over that comment.....it was a joke!!

Posted by: basketball fan on February 26, 2008 3:33PM EST

Sorry dawgfan, you have to take off your bulldog goggles because I saw the replay of the foul the next day and your are absolutely wrong about the play in question. The only thing your right about is that it wasn't a hard foul, it was a FLAGRANT foul and the kid deserved to be ejected. Him pushed him with 2 hands right in the back as he was going in for a lay-up (airborne) and the Newcastle kid hit the floor on his side/shoulder. The coach came on the floor as a peace maker and didn't influence the call at all. 2 of the 3 officials will be in the post-season this weekend. As far as teaching in Newcastle your wrong again, they all live and work in Buffalo or Sheridan. Never been part of Weston County Schools. There was less than 2 minutes to go, and Wheatland was getting a good ole fashion butt kicking.

Posted by: Anonymous on February 26, 2008 4:40PM EST

My apologies about the comment of late games. I didn't know the East did it differently. It was just as far as I could remember here in the West the hosting team got to play the late game. My apologies about assuming it was the same in the East.

Posted by: Anonymous on February 26, 2008 4:43PM EST

By the way that last comment was Werb15 I forgot I wasn't logged in :)

Posted by: Bulldog Fan on February 26, 2008 5:05PM EST

I did want to say that other than the "mooning" incident, I thought the TR Eagle was great. He was having fun and even as a fan of the other team I enjoyed watching him. Mascots are great for team spirit and the little kids love them.

Posted by: Brady on February 26, 2008 5:21PM EST

Thanks for the response and your take dawgfan. I was not there so I was just looking for some insight. I agree with JA, a 5'9" kid can easily take out a 6'5" kid. That really is not debatable. JA does a good job of explaining one way this could happen. By a few accounts of this event that I have now heard, it wasn't a good situation. I just hope Mick is not allowing this kind of stuff to happen with his kids. I am pretty sure he wasn't taught that way, as I know he wasn't that type of player/person.

Posted by: dawgfan on February 26, 2008 5:54PM EST

basketball fan -- maybe the officiating would have been better if there were 3 officials doing the game instead of the two that did the game, oh I forgot the coach was the 3rd official

Posted by: bobcat fan on February 26, 2008 6:01PM EST

I would congratulate the Athletic Director at Pinedale; they must be competitive and willing to take the heat to be that way. I have seen times in thermop where we have completely given up home court or field advantage so we could accommodate someone else’s schedule. It takes a strong AD with a strong desire to compete no mater how good or bad your team may be.

Posted by: 3A West on February 26, 2008 7:03PM EST

I have learned after talking to some coaches from around the region that the 3A west regional has for the last few years given the hosting team the late games. Last year Lander hosted and Powell the year before regardless of seeding.

Posted by: fishmaster on February 26, 2008 7:57PM EST

thanks for the info on the time scheduling 3A West! Interesting.

Posted by: Basketball Fan on February 26, 2008 8:15PM EST

Bulldog Fan,
I was very surprised and taken back by your comment and I'm hoping that I'm reading it wrong. You said,
"Yell, scream and holler for your team, but don't be disrespectful to the other team. (only the refs)". Why is it that you as a "fan" find it acceptable to be disrespectful to a referee? I can understand disagreeing with a call, but I find it offensive and wrong that you would say a comment like that. Referees have a huge amount of travel in a season. Think about it, they never have a home game. Every game is on the road, and for $55 a game. They leave families, travel on terrible roads, and for what? To get to deal with someone like you? Have you ever had a game (win or lose) that you went to an official afterward and told them they did a nice job if you felt they did? I'll bet that you aren't afraid to criticize poor officiating.
I would challenge you as a "Bulldog fan" to be a fan of basketball in general. Be a fan of good play from BOTH teams, good coaching from BOTH coaches, and lastly, learn to be a fan of good officiating.

Posted by: Bulldog Fan on February 26, 2008 8:25PM EST

If you will reread my comment, I said "Don't beat me up over that comment...it was a joke!!"
Meaning that there have been many comments on this blog about refs. It was tongue in cheek. Sorry I said it. Actually, I did compliment a ref on his reffing once. I have on more than one occassion felt like yelling at a ref more than I have felt like complimenting one. Most of us don't get an opportunity to say anything to them since they disappear so fast after a game. Sorry I offended you.

Posted by: bballfan on February 26, 2008 11:18PM EST

have you been to the doctor lately dawgfan? i dont know what they heck you are talking about. you might want to go get yourself looked at

Posted by: HS Sports Fan on February 27, 2008 1:42AM EST

What is the official verdict/sentence for the young man from Wheatland. I have heard he has been suspended for two contests. Is this true?

Posted by: Scott on February 27, 2008 9:02AM EST

I have not seen Windriver play but have heard they are fun to watch. Is anybody expecting them to not go undeafeted for the season?

Posted by: lefty on February 27, 2008 10:12AM EST

basketball fan,
you cant expect much else from a wheatland fan

Posted by: bobcat fan on February 27, 2008 10:26AM EST

Scott, Wind River is a blast to watch, its like going to a 32 minute track meet where they run 94 foot sprints for the entire meet!! i don't see anyone stopping them although i have not seen Sundace or Lusk play. if the WR gaurds do what they have done ALL year they should have gold hanging from their neck!

Posted by: b-ball watcher on February 27, 2008 12:02PM EST

Everyone questioning the incident in Newcastle last Friday night needs to see the film. The foul in my mind is the worst intentional foul I have seen in high school basketball. the kid from Newcastle could have been serious injured from the fall. The officials doing the game are from Buffalo and have never lived or worked in Newcastle . They officiate games because they love being a part of high school basketball. If any body doubts the decision of those officials that night please ask the WHSAA commissioners their take on the film as they have seen it and dealt out the suspension.

Posted by: JA on February 27, 2008 1:10PM EST

B-ball watcher, what is the suspension??? I've heard he's been suspended, but no one seems to know what it is.

Posted by: fan from douglas on February 27, 2008 2:00PM EST

b-ball watcher, maybe you should watch the whole game film to see how many calls those officials missed, maybe that is why they love being apart of high school basketball to make the game one sided

Posted by: JA on February 27, 2008 2:50PM EST

I'm thinking that "fan from douglas" may be an alias for Dawgfan. I didn't think Douglas and Wheatland thought to highly of each other, and it suprises me to see a Douglas fan come to the aid of a Dawg(I'm not even sure what that is)... Especially since the two face off in the first round...

Posted by: bw on February 27, 2008 3:02PM EST

as an ex-coach, I can truely say that I've seen some questionable calls during the course of a game. However, I never ever believed that a team of officials caused my team or the other team to win or lose. I did see the incident in question personally and on the game film. The Newcastle player was in a position to be seriously injured. The official made the correct call. It is unfortunate that the Wheatland player did what he did. His coach and fellow teammates will suffer from his action. Go to work Brady

Posted by: JA on February 27, 2008 3:39PM EST

If BW is who I think it is, then I am seriously disapointed I didn't get to see you a few weeks ago... Hope all is well and that I get to see that salt and pepper hair of yours this weekend or next!!!

Posted by: BW on February 27, 2008 4:33PM EST

better salt and pepper than none JA!!!!

Posted by: b-ball watcher on February 27, 2008 4:53PM EST

Fan from Douglas--tell me if these officials missed so many calls why are they officiating in the post-season and have you seen the game film and the foul, were you at the game???? I was so when you can tell me how many calls they missed and which ones we will discuss this some more, can you tell me the foul count what the foul count was and in whose favor when the incident in question happened.

Posted by: Bulldog Fan on February 27, 2008 4:54PM EST

I think the officials can truly CONTRIBUTE to the outcome of a game. A close game could be attributed to a questionable call....but, it could also be attributed to that missed layup, bad pass, missed free throw, etc. I have seen several games that I would say could be attributed to the officials, mostly because of the momentum of the game. One team called for 5 or 6 fouls in a row and then all of a sudden the other team called for 4 or 5 in a row. Definitely a momentum swing. I'm not saying that the officials were trying to influence the outcome on purpose. It does seem that in some games they lock on to a player and he/she is doomed. (Yes, in some cases it is warranted) Sometimes the player is fouling and sometimes it is incidental contact, but he/she gets called. It does help when you know the officials well enough to know how they call. It is hard to go back and forth when one official calls a reach and another one doesn't.
Something I noticed in Douglas was that there were a lot of offensive fouls called (I watched over half of the games played.) I hadn't seen this very much during the season. Can anyone give me the exact rule on that. Is it just that you have to be set or is there an amount of time. That seemed a little inconsistant from ref to ref and game to game.

Posted by: lefty on February 27, 2008 5:10PM EST

legal guarding position is the rule, which becomes an interpretation.

Posted by: Anonymous on February 27, 2008 5:31PM EST

Dawgfan from the sounds of it you were at the game and you are telling me the newcastle kid didn't even go to the floor, you got to be kidding me you do need to take off your bulldog googles. As far as the officiating one of those official does have family in that area but grew up in Buffalo and actually works in Sheridan. Where ever you got your information about teaching in Weston County it is totally false. you sound like quite a fan, why don't you go ask coach Cochran for a copy of the game tape so you can review the game before you start making false statements about what really happen in the game.

Posted by: Da Boss on February 27, 2008 5:38PM EST

I don't understand why Douglas keeps being brought into this discussion. This incident has nothing to do with the Bearcats, who by the way have lost more games by less then 5 points then any other team in the state including being involved 5 overtime games. This in itself makes them a pretty dangerous 7th seed. Referees in this state are inconsistent at best. But they try to do their best to regulate a game that has become more and more physical, its kind of like supervising a car wreck. Its a shame whatever happened in Newcastle last weekend, it would have been worse had the Newcastle player been seriously hurt wether because of a cheap shot or because the officials lost control or if it was by accident. Regardless of who plays, Wheatland and Newcastle are both very talented teams and I hope they will be able to put this incident behind them for basketballs sake. The 3A East is certainly going to be unpredictable and fun to watch.

Posted by: Anonymous on February 27, 2008 5:42PM EST

Hey Da Boss have you ever officiated????

Posted by: dawgfan on February 27, 2008 7:10PM EST

JA- I am sorry that you think that fan from douglas is an alias, I live in Rapid that just heard from somone who was there. The info that was passed along to me must be distorted so I am sorry to everyone(for not knowing all the facts). I do know that the player involved in the incident is not a bad kid, from what people tell me he is very quite and a competitor in whatever he participates in. I am sure that the player feels bad for his actions and did not intend to hurt the Newc player. Here is hoping they can pull out a game so he can play in the regional.

Posted by: CougarFan on February 27, 2008 10:41PM EST

Go WR Cougars!!!! First regional win in 25 years (and beating an awesome Chiefs team every time to do it).

I can't wait to see you guys down here in Casper.....

GGOOOOOO COUGARS!

Posted by: Anonymous on February 27, 2008 11:48PM EST

Oh my goodness. As I was someone who was AT the Newcastle/Wheatland game, I find it unbelievable that anyone would possibly say the foul wasn't a hard foul.
dawgfan-If you don't think it's possible for a 5'9" kid to take out a 6'5" kid, then you're in need of watching the game film. And the Newcastle coach did not storm the court and yell at the referees. He was extremely upset that a Wheatland kid could have seriously hurt one of his players...the referees had already made the decision on their own to eject the Wheatland player after his actions towards Kade Ferguson AND other players.
And no, a Newcastle player is not getting in trouble for any taunting. There was an incident of a Newcastle player getting in the face of #23 and chest bumping him..AFTER #23 had taken out the 6'5" kid, and AFTER #23 had repeatedly said very unrespectable things, including the "F" word, to the Newcastle player.
And on a higher note...the punishment for #23 is that he isn't allowed to play in the first two games of Regionals. This was decided by state officials and the WHSAA...so for those of you saying the foul wasn't hard, try telling that to all of the people who had nothing to do with the game, and still conclude it was a horribly Flagrant foul.

One more thing...even if the referees did make a few bad calls throughout the game, every referee does it....and Newcastle was leading throughout the whole game, without favor from the referees.

Posted by: JA on February 28, 2008 1:23AM EST

Ya I have a hard time believing that the two refs made a 22 point impact on that game. And for you BW... Good point, but I put the blame on you for my hair "growing" backwards! If I didn't have so much stress from some gnat jabbing me in the ribs while I was studiously finding the Sin, CoSin, and Tan of a particular triangle, I would still have a full head of hair!!! See you at regionals?

Posted by: HS Sportsfan on February 28, 2008 3:05AM EST

DAWG - You are full of crap. You can't even keep track of which story you are telling under which ID. In your first post on the subject you said and I quote, "I saw the officials before the game shaking hands with fans and talking with the newcastle players, so much about being fair. " Now which is it? Were you in Newcastle watching the game, or was the information passed on by someone who was there? And how many different id's are you posting with?

Posted by: dawgfan on February 28, 2008 10:40AM EST

No I was not at the game just relaying info that someone had given me, I am sorry for discussing something that I had not seen. I have only posted as Dawgfan. I hope someone will give updates since I will not be able to attend the regional.

Posted by: JA on February 28, 2008 11:56AM EST

Dogies win by double digits over Rawlins. Ferguson, Pisciotti, and Decker all in double figures.

Posted by: JA on February 28, 2008 2:40PM EST

Unless there is a big misprint on the WHSAA site, it looks as if the Dogs from the West were upset by the 8 seed lyman....Hmmm, things are already getting a bit interesting! Looks like just a prelude for the rest of the weekend.

Posted by: wyofloater on February 28, 2008 4:07PM EST

Yep, I have a feeling that won't be the last upset!

Posted by: adidasbball_31 on February 29, 2008 11:28AM EST

Yes Lyman did beat the Dogs that were suppose to win it all. From listening to the game on the radio it sounded like lyman just out played them. But then again the lovell coach might of said a few choice words and hurt someones feelings so they quit on him.

Posted by: Eric Heatherly on March 1, 2008 3:36PM EST

i am the wheatland player who got ejected from the newcastle game and i can tell u i didnt mean to hit him that hard and personally they refs over did it a little..it was a hard foul, yes but my momentum was full speed and it was in the heat of the moment..i would never try to hurt anyone on purpose..after the incident the whole newc team got in my face..piscotti even gave me a bump along with many words and nothing was served to him..it was a hard foul but getting ejected over did it..but we won our first 2 games at regionals and i am back tonight in the ship against buffalo...GO BULLDOGS! SEE EVERYONE AT STATE!

Posted by: Jackson Mom on March 2, 2008 11:31AM EST

adidasbball, you are right. The Lyman boys outplayed the Lovell boys in the first game. Lovell's big man hurt is ankle in the first quarter & they didnt do well without him, but I must say that I am embarrassed that our boys are going to state. The Lovell boys were up by about 12 points in the third when one of the refs winked at our coach. He then started making only calls for our boys & put them on the line so much that Lovell didnt have a chance. I am embarrassed that we are going to state and they are not. We do not derserve it. This was Lovell's first year in 3A and this side of the state really showed our true colors. During the award ceremony, hardly anyone clapped for those boys, even though they won the conference. I feel sorry for the seniors. Hold your heads up Lovell. You were the best team there!

Posted by: wyofloater on March 2, 2008 4:21PM EST

The last post is bogus and I seriously doubt it was made by any Jackson fan. Lovell had to foul to try and get back in the game and the JHS players actually made all their free throws (for once!)

Supporting your team is great, but pretending to be someone your not in order to disparage others is shameful.

Posted by: HS Sports Fan on March 2, 2008 5:28PM EST

Wyofloater - I ditto your comments! All the blow on another blog by all those Lovell bulldog fans, and now a "Jackson Mom" comes in and makes these statements. This mom is probably related to Dawgfan.

Posted by: rangerfan on March 2, 2008 6:20PM EST

I agree with wyofloater. Was there and the Jackson boys just toughed it out and played harder than lovell. I was impressed by the discipline shown by the jackson crew. When they got down they never panicked or blamed each other or gave up they just kept picking away at the lead. Coach Broadhead seems to have had a good effect on that program. good for them. I could not say the same for the lovell team. Frustration surfaced easy, and emotions got out of control. The coach also sulked over a bad call for the last 2 and a half minutes of the ball game. He was only down 4 at the time. Had he focused on a game plan and rallied his troops he might have been able to get his team back in it.

Posted by: newcfan on March 3, 2008 12:40AM EST

Eric Heatherly- at least you admit to your hard foul, but I will disagree about the refs over-doing it. Whether or not you had the full intention of taking Kade's legs out from underneath him, you definitely were NOT going for the ball...and you also had no intention of even helping him up.
Nick Pisciotti had every right to get in your face...he wasn't going to sit back and watch his teammate get taken out. Not to mention the fact that you had said many words to Pisciotti yourself when it was happening.
Both teams were extremely heated by the situation, and you were the only one who actually did something...and something that definitely was worth getting ejected over. I was there and watched the whole thing and I'd hope you won't ever do something like that again.

Posted by: Lovell Fan on March 3, 2008 4:00PM EST

It was VERY obvious the 2 officials were against Lovell during the Jackson game. Jackson only scored 2 field goals in the 4th quarter and made over 12 free-throws. Lovell had no reason to foul when up by ten points. It sure is a shame that this goes on. Officials need to be held more accountable. Lets not just hand them a $900 check Thursday morning and say have a good weekend....

Posted by: Wypanther on March 3, 2008 5:12PM EST

One suggestion from an observer at the 3A West Regional Tournament - I did not see many games that I would say the officating was fair or good. Most of the games were very close and officating did matter when it came to momentum including the Lovell/Jackson game. One turning point in the Lovell/Jackson game was the techincal foul issued to a Lovell player. Anyway - here is the suggestion - have the officials from the East refree the West Regionals and vice versa. This would help in many ways, the refrees do not know the teams, coaches or players well so there would be fewer preconcieved ideas. The officials are paid and stay in the motel so there would not be a lot of added expense for this idea. Many of the coaches know the officials that they see all year and the refrees know the players - I do think it is impossible to block out everything and sometimes those biases carry over into a game. This suggestion would help ease those biases. Just a thought for future reference.

Posted by: JA on March 3, 2008 5:45PM EST

Perhaps Lovell Fan could enlighten us on the East of why they were beat by the 8th seed and put into a loser out game. Because if you win that opening game, you don't put yourself in that situation. Could it have been arrogance or cockiness that attributed this early exit. I remember earlier in the year all of the Lovell fans/players boasting that they had the best team in 3A. I believe it was Al Davis who said it best, "Just Win, Baby"!!! My have the mighty falling...Good Luck to all at State!

Posted by: 3a west fan on March 3, 2008 8:52PM EST

Lovell fans you should learn some class and not blame everyone and take some accountability for losing to the 7th and 8th seed. I was at the 3A west regional and would have to say that the refs did not cost you the game. It was obvious in your 2 losses that the Lyman and Jax kids simply out hustled your team and did not get caught up in things they couldn’t control(like the refs). Jax shot all those free throws at the end of the game when your team was forced to foul. There is a reason the entire conference wanted to see your team lose because your fans and players show no class. I witnessed the boys varsity coaches father get escorted out of the gym in the Jax game and also watched the head coach of the boys yell at the refs the entire girls championship game. Learn some class and then maybe other fans might clap when your team in rewarded its conference championship trophy. There has to be a reason all the other teams in the conference wanted Jax to beat Lovell in your final game, I witnessed the Pinedale players and fans showing their support for Jax against lovell because Jax and Pinedale are developing a very good rivalry so they had to have a good reason to cheer for Jax. Good luck next year and maybe you could give other teams credit for their hard work and desire instead of blaming everyone else for your loss.

Posted by: HS Sports Fan on March 3, 2008 9:09PM EST

Well put JA and 3a West Fan! WY panther - Where did you come up with the $900 for referees? $55 per game, mileage, food, and lodging. I wonder how much these officials actually made? I am pretty sure the per diem doesn't actually cover the cost of lodging and meals and with gas over $3 a gallon the mileage is hardly worth it.
.
Now I can yell at the refs as well during the game, but I think it is fair to say that 99% of the refs are there cause they love the sport. In the West refs are being blamed for costing "the best team in the state" a chance to prove it and in the East refs are being blamed for ejecting a kid for "Flagrant Misconduct". Come on people catch a clue!!

Posted by: bla bla on March 4, 2008 12:25AM EST

lol, foolish lovell fans/players....soaking in your own pity and self inflicted embarrassment. its ur own fault you lost, not the refs, not anything else, except your sorry butts not showing up to play. i think karma has a way of presenting itself when you are cocky, rude, unclassy, and disrespectful. I mean look at the way your bulldogs displayed themselves at the gym, dressed in t-shirts and columbia skiing jackets, and blue jeans w/holes in them. its a shame. and yes everyone in 3A hates you, and they have many many reasons. to play with the big boys in 3A you have to act like the big boys in 3A, so maybe take a year off from state, and watch and learn how true classy basketball players dress themselves, how they act on the court, how to treat other players and fans. im sorry to say that u just didn't have wat it takes to make it to the top. its a sad story for you but a happy one to all of the other teams in 3A that had to put up with your bulldog bull****..... have a good offseason! or hey maybe you guys could go to the mall in casper this weekend and get some nice clothes!!! its a start.

Posted by: Gene Hunt on March 4, 2008 2:38AM EST

Why was there an official from Lyman reffing the Lyman games??

Posted by: HS Fan on March 4, 2008 3:21AM EST

Mr. Heatherly - You've got alot of nerve coming in here running your mouth about the refs over reacting. Do you honestly think you helped your case? I think you really hurt it.

Posted by: rangerfan on March 4, 2008 11:04AM EST

I agree that the reffing seemed a little below average through some games at the west regions but I don't think it was biased towards any team. I think some calls were missed simply because there were only two refs. After playing all year with three man crews, why did pinedale opt for only two during the tournement. I guess cost could be factored in, but they only used two refs for their regular season games as well. The only place I remember that being used. Does anyone know the reasoning here? I thought it handicapped the refs especially when the game got moving fast.

Posted by: werb15 on March 4, 2008 11:38AM EST

Before everyone complains about reffing, I dare you all to at least ref a couple of games. I reffed a couple of 8th grade girls games...which is not that big of a deal but even just reffing those games its impossible to catch everything. I got a whole new respect for refs after doing some reffing of my own. What may be a foul to some people may not be to others. By the time you have to think about it, the game is already still going. Its HARD! So I would like to challenge you all to do it once or twice and see for yourself how hard it ACTUALLY is. I might also add that I am from Pinedale and reffed a Pinedale game but I was so caught up in making the right calls that I didn't couldn't remember which team was which only who fouled or not.

Posted by: rangerfan on March 4, 2008 1:17PM EST

Werb15, Please don't take my comment as complaining about reffing. I know they do all they can and will make mistakes like any other human being. I have reffed JV games before and it is tough and yes I made mistakes. I really think the refs at the western regionals were put in a less effective situation only having two do a game. Were there 3 refs at the east regions?

Posted by: JA on March 4, 2008 2:29PM EST

No there were just two officials for every game.

Posted by: wypanther on March 4, 2008 2:30PM EST

HS Sports fan - I made no comment about the referees being paid $900. I said, "The officials are paid and stay in the motel so there would not be a lot of added expense for this idea." So double check before making an accusation. I am well aware of how much referees make. I did not say the referees won or lost a game rather "officiating did matter when it came to momentum." I would have issued a technical to the Lovell player as well, I agree with the call but it did change the momentum of the game.

Posted by: Cam on March 4, 2008 2:33PM EST

Remember, the refs at the WHSAA regional and state events are decided upon primarily by a vote of member schools/coaches within that region or classification. The refs that are assigned are the ones the coaches want and feel have been most effective over the course of the season. The regional host has no obligations to select or pay the officials as this is done by the WHSAA office. Also, we will see 3 man crews at all regional and state events beginning next year as per WHSAA mandate.

Posted by: rangerfan on March 4, 2008 2:43PM EST

Cam, thanks for the info. Good to see the state will mandate 3 man crews. Still think Lyman would have come out over Lovell. Those boys played their rear ends off. I also thought the technical against Lovell during the jackson game was warranted. No way a player ends up on the floor and nothing is issued. Good luck Lyman and Jackson at state. Lovell...better luck next year.

Posted by: JA on March 4, 2008 2:49PM EST

wypanther, sounds to me that the kid should've kept his mouth shut and the momentum swing wouldn't have been a problem... Can't put that one on the refs!

Posted by: wypanther on March 4, 2008 4:38PM EST

JA- the technical wasn't issued to the Lovell player because of something that was said - it was issued because he pushed a Jackson player after the whistle. I also stated that I agreed with the technical being issued. Please read what is written not what you think I mean. I was at the Pinedale gym and witnessed the game first hand - that technical changed the momentum of the game. It fired the Jackson team up and the Lovell team ended up sitting one of their starters for the remainder of the 3rd quarter - another decision that I agree with - if you cannot maintain your composure on the court then you shouldn't be on it. Kudos to the Lovell coaches for sitting the player for the rest of the quarter and letting him clam down before re-entering the game.

Posted by: wypanther on March 4, 2008 4:42PM EST

...and letting him calm down before re-entering the game. Not clam down - my bad.

Posted by: Coach on March 4, 2008 4:49PM EST

Cam,
I am not really sure you know what you are talking about. The coaches have very little say in the officials that make it to regionals and state. We get 20% of the say. The state evaluators and the WHSAA have the rest of the say. So, it is easy to see that an official that is not all that popular can still make it to regionals and state. For 3 of the last 5 years, there have been officials at the SE and East regionals that not a single coach voted for. When coaches get together, they talk about this all the time. We feel that we have very little say in which officials make it to postseason, and the WHSAA reminds us of that every year by using the good ol boy system to fill regional and state officiating pools. I have officiated and coached for 14 years, and have been on both ends of the spectrum. I know it is very difficult to officiate, and I appreciate their time and effort. Just wish the state would give the coaches a little more say on which officials make the postseason, and quit using the good ol boy system.

Posted by: HS Basketball Official on March 4, 2008 7:29PM EST

I thought I might try and clear a few things up since this is turning to officials and officiating. First of all, I think that Werb from Pinedale shows true sportsmanship and class for his post defending referees.
As far as money goes, we get per diem (65 a day) but we are responsible for our own hotel rooms and food, so it is very likely that we lose money here. We earn 60 a game and mileage is a break even deal with gas at $3.00 a gallon.
It really comes down to the love of the game and the love of the kids playing it. I would find it hard to believe that an official would intentionally hurt a team. I think it comes down to officials's experience and the state's number of officials. There are around 85 officials certified for post season play. Each regional tournament with 8 teams requires 8 officials, 16 of these officials go on to do the 1A/2A state tournament. Then there are more officials picked for post season play out of the remaining 85 not already picked, and 16 of these officials go to the 3A/4A state tournament. What it boils down to is putting the best refs in the best spots, but sometimes there honestly aren't that many officials to choose from and a ref might be put in a tournament where he might not belong.
With that being said, I have a personal observation this year. The players (Werb for example) have shown some of the best sportsmanship and class I've seen in my career. They win with pride and lose with dignity. The coaches have been better this year that any other year so everything happening on the floor this year is the best I've ever seen. The fans this year, on the other hand, are the worst I've ever seen. I've ejected or threatened to eject more fans this year than in every other year of my career COMBINED. I think that kids and coaches are playing and coaching their best basketball of the year, and I hope that fans can appreciate great play and coaching from both teams this weekend.

Posted by: JA on March 4, 2008 9:32PM EST

wypanther,
Sorry for the mis-understanding, all I was saying that it seems that the Lovell player is at fault for the Technical and momentum swing not the refs. Here on the east side, many coaches will sit their player who are issued a techinical for not only the remainder of the game being played but the next one as well.

Posted by: Eric Heatherly on March 4, 2008 11:16PM EST

newcfan...have u seen the film from that game? well i have a copy if u wanted to see it..the game was out of hand from the beginning..if u see the film watch the WHOLE THING...Kade before the incident drilled me on a shot attempt..no foul..he also on purpose tripped kelly simonton..no call..its clearly obvious too...when we played you guys in glenrock he also threw an elbow on purpose at kyle lenz on purpose! i dont think thats very good sportsmanship..i am a quite kid and that incident will never happen again..i am looking forward to seeing you guys at state..good luck..
HS Fan..im running my mouth? ok all i said was i didnt mean to foul him that hard? Helping my case, i dont think i ever was..come to casper this weekend at watch us win 3 in a row and watch our team we are a class act..dont let one game be the judge of that..we are the best and the fastest team in 3a..see u in casper..GO BULLDOGS!

Posted by: momma miller on March 5, 2008 12:08AM EST

I'm so proud of our Jackson team, I can hardly stand it

Posted by: gtown on March 5, 2008 12:20AM EST

HS basketball official thanks for clearing up alot of confusion on this post!

Posted by: Not Surprised on March 5, 2008 12:46AM EST

I would bet that the comment from the "Jackson Mom" didn't really come from Jackson, and if it did, it could only be from one person, and that is K.V.
Last year our boys were the #1 seed, and didn't make it to State...she's probably just still bitter!
(She has a reputation for things like that!) Good Luck Jackson Boys and Girls!

Posted by: OT on March 5, 2008 11:33AM EST

Newcastle has a hard time winning when its five on five.. Not as easy as seven on five is it? At least there were only two refs that game so it wasn't eight on five, huh?

Posted by: Dawgsfan on March 5, 2008 1:22PM EST

The only time i'll be rootin for Buffalo is the second round when they kick Newcastle's butt...

Posted by: SSmith on March 5, 2008 3:49PM EST

It's comedy to hear some people complain about officiating. It sure is funny that the two guys who did the Newcastle/Wheatland game were the same two officials when Torrington played Newcastle in Newcastle. The Blazers must have been amazing that night because they won despite playing against the Dogie 5 and the officials. It's pretty plain and simple. You do not win or lose because of an official. You win or lose because you are better prepared and work harder. Any other excuse is just a poor and weak mentality that will serve no purpose in the real world. I personally know, and count as friends, many of the officials who work the 3A games. Not once have they ever given my team a call because of our history. Give them more credit than that.

Posted by: rangerfan on March 5, 2008 6:47PM EST

SSmith--Right on!!

Posted by: newcfan on March 6, 2008 1:36PM EST

Eric Heatherly- there would be no need for me to watch the game film, seeing as I was at the Newcastle/Wheatland game in person the whole time. But yet, yes I have seen the game film anyways. You say you didn't intentionally try to take Kade out, yet now you are trying to excuse your actions because "Kade did this, and Kade did that" so you are unsportsman-like enough to go after Kade to try and take him out?
Everyone fouls, and there's no getting by that. Kade would never intentionally trip someone, and nowhere in the game or on the game film did I see him do that. You, and the rest of your team, are the only people complaining about Kade...so don't try and make excuses for yourself for what Kade supposedly did first.
And good luck to you too at state, I will enjoy watching you. But I will disagree with your response to HS Fan that you are the best in 3A. Your final game for the championship at regionals proved that is wrong.

Posted by: Eric Heatherly on March 17, 2008 1:03PM EST

newcfan i was not making any excuses at all and im not a dirty player and i didnt take him out on purpose at all and i do show sportsmanship. i was good sport of the game 2 out of 3 games at state. u want my other shirt its a little big for me i think its an XL?