Defenda

The leaves have started to turn, there is an ever familiar chill in the air, and the all too evident feeling that something drastic is about to transpire; all these things usher in soccer tournament time in the mid-state and across TN. It is in this bewitching hour that teams begin to reminisce about the August heat, the heck of two-a-days, the preseason, the blunders and brilliance of their respective seasons; some are lucky enough to fall into the postseason, while others pack up their cleats, move forward from their fields and continue with their academic year unscathed. It is not merely teams who move forward; however, that will appreciate this message, this is for anyone who loves the game more than life, who, the day after a loss, gets up early just to correct their wrongs, who doesn't hang their head and wish upon 'what could have been' but stand proud and say 'what is'. Only two teams can play in a Championship, and only one can truly win, but there are far many more champions than one would conceive. As your season or post-season, or perhaps for you seniors, your soccer career, comes to a screeching hault, take the time to revisit that which you can remember... The joys of the summer sun during a drill, the heat of competition, that sweet victory over a sweet rival - on their field! These are days that will flee all to quickly from your grasp, embrace each moment, CHERISH, please, don't let them stop you now, because in the blink of an eye, with the abruptness of a move, in the swish of the upper 90, the blow of a shrill whistle - all will be a mere memory, moments in your life lost, but not soon forgotten. Good Luck to all of you in your quest for Finley, may your feet be swift, your kicks be steady and heart as big as your will. -- Former Defenda

MBA vs BA... Everytime these two teams compete they rise to the occassion. There isn't a game I've seen them play that hasn't been action and tension packed. Need I mention past clinic bowl and regular season appearances, as well as the talented athletes, who, year after year, leave the program stronger. And as for the coaches, two class act gentlemen with some the greatest adopted and enacted techniques to date.

DIVISION II: As much as I hate to admit it, Baylor looks to be the best in the state as far as DII goes. Hutchison and Harpeth Hall look strong as well, but both teams lost a great deal of senior leadership following the conclusion of the 2002 season. Without All-State goalie Austin Jones (Harpeth Hall) and All-State Forward Brooke Binswanger (Hutch) it looks as though, unfortunate as it may be, that Baylor is headed for yet another State Title. However, it's sure to be an interesting season! Get training in the off season ladies, it's sure to be a thrilla!

Anyone have the results of the D-II 3200 m. this morning in Memphis? Thanks so much!

The students of Harpeth Hall wish to extend their thoughts and prayers to the Rutledge family and wish him a speedy recovery.

I love the idea of having 8 teams in the mix for the tourney. As member of a team who has participated in the tournament, given their all and made it to Chattanooga for the finals twice, I believe, like many others, that this gives teams an ever better chance to showcase their talent, not to mention, extend a season that most wish was longer anyway...esp. graduating seniors !

I would say that as of now that title is up in the air. Cannon Kinnard, MBA Vaulter headed for USMA this fall, looks to be imporving by leaps and bounds and his teammate, Jeff Snyder, is no different. They tend to flip-flop in practices, as well as meets, but the pair's battle yesterday in the Shoney's City Meet was quite entertaining and extremely impressive... look for both to challenge Ralls in Memphis.

One of the better HS rivalries in the state is that of midstate competitors Father Ryan and Harpeth Hall. Both teams flip-flop victories each year and continuously put on a good show, both soccer and 'trash talk' wise. Also a rising star in the rivalry sky, Harpeth Hall vs GPS. This year the two single-sex schools went head to head early in the season giving GPS the 'W'. However, it was the semi-final game in the state tournament that tossed the Honeybears back into the fire. The teams went scoreless until, with 28 seconds remaining in the 2nd sudden death OT, a sophomore put a PK on goal to give the Bears a win and advancement to the State Finals where they fell to common foe, Baylor. 1) HH vs. Ryan reason: trash talk 2) GPS vs. HH reason: talent

What is the best rivalry in the State?

I'd hate to put a hex on the girls of Harpeth Hall but for the past 3 years they've delievered in Chattanooga and I for one see nothing different about Memphis. To win their 2001 and 2002 victories everything fell on the 4 by 4, and while it is highly likely this will happen again, I and many others sincerely believe that Harpeth Hall is well on their way to a 4-peat State Championship- but don't tell them I told you so...

One of the better HS rivalries in the state is that of midstate competitors Father Ryan and Harpeth Hall. Both teams flip-flop victories each year and continuously put on a good show, both soccer and 'trash talk' wise. Also a rising star in the rivalry sky, Harpeth Hall vs GPS. This year the two single-sex schools went head to head early in the season giving GPS the 'W'. However, it was the semi-final game in the state tournament that tossed the Honeybears back into the fire. The teams went scoreless until, with 28 seconds remaining in the 2nd sudden death OT, a sophomore put a PK on goal to give the Bears a win and advancement to the State Finals where they fell to common foe, Baylor. 1) HH vs. Ryan reason: trash talk 2) GPS vs. HH reason: talent

Today (4/23) was Senior Day at the HH diamond and the honeybears, coming off their disappointing 2-1 loss to the BA eagles, were more than ready. Led by 3 stellar seniors, the Bears marched their way to victory, runruling St. Cecilia and showcasing the talent of their seniors, all 4 years in the making. Congrats on a great game ladies, and to your seniors, congrats on 4 great seasons and I'm sure, lots of good times...there are certainy more to come, next step: REGION!

BA 2, HH 1 - BA did not score until the 6th inning and the Honeybears were leading up until that point. Both teams have had quite busy schedules recently and both have been working hard. The Harpeth Hall club has improved greatly from the beginning of the season and should be a big threat coming down the stretch. Note: I don't play softball, just a spirited supporter.

The Harpeth Hall team and school wishes to extend its condolences. We will continue to keep Tyler's family, friends and fellow students at Davidson Academy in our hearts and thoughts.