Sports

In what was a mix of fortunes, both the boys and girls basketball teams at Palmer had losing regular seasons, though each had their share of happy endings.

All-District honors began to roll out over the past week, though they typically aren’t announced until every team in each district has been eliminated from post-season play.

Over-reaction, yes, but it is not the first time America’s recreational past-times have taken a forced time-out. Inclement weather has temporarily hit regions where games were canceled, though the reasons justified the decision.

Palmer football doesn’t have the same list of accomplished seasons as Bulldogs baseball. Since the Don Waddle era began, however, winning has become commonplace. Winning a district championship, which had never happened prior, has now begun to be anticipated.

In the first year after the QB CJ Collins era, Southwestern Assemblies of God University went through six starting signal callers and an 0-10 football campaign.

Southwestern Assemblies of God University won the Sooner Athletic Conference mens basketball tournament for the second time in three years, all under HC Delton Deal.

A day after a come-from-behind 10-5 win at Corsicana, the Ennis softball team again fell behind early but had no rally magic at home against Red Oak in a 6-2 defeat.

Coaches usually excel at circling the wagons, at building a sense of community and casting vision. Assembling a staff who do similarly is critical. The ability to lead players to buy into whatever the coach is selling is paramount.

Third year HC Craig Horn has guided Italy from fourth to third and last fall to a second place finish in the district. Making the next step is the goal, and a solid returning cast is expected back, but expect a challenge from newcomer Dawson.