Sports

Judging this year’s strength of schedule on last year’s record can be a valid litmus test. While teams change players from year-to-year, coaching systems are more predictable.

Big 5 teams in Eastern Ellis County are tipping-off the start of the second half of their varsity basketball season this week with games in their respective districts.

What they lacked in offense, No.

On February 3, 2022, the University Interscholastic League officials will announce two major news items, the classifications and district alignments that affect all high schools during 2022-2024.

Eastern Ellis County volleyball had plenty of impressive seasons among the Big 5 teams, none more than Class 4A Ferris. Under HC Kyla Menefee, the Yellowjackets enjoyed a 24-10 season, which included a playoff win over North Dallas.

Holidays are for shopping, families, football, and for basketball fans, tis the season for hooping. HC Roynal Bridgeforth has the Ennis varsity Lions off to their best start in years.

Ennis had a marked turnaround season this fall, though 9-16 may not turn many heads. A last place finish a year ago was topped by taking fifth among seven teams in District 14-5A.

Ferris had the most success of all Big 5 volleyball teams, producing 24 wins and a Bi-District victory to boot. Veteran HC Kyla Menefee saw her Yellowjackets perform at a steep grade higher than the 6-11 record they had in 2020.

Coming off a 7-15 record in 2020, Italy volleyball enjoyed a turnaround season in which the Lady Gladiators posted a 16-9 mark, their first above .500 effort since 2015.