Gazette’s Fab Five

The regular feature ranks the top five C.R. and Marion Metro sports program regardless of sport and class.

1. C.R. WASHINGTON FOOTBALL - The Warriors have accomplished an interesting feat, claiming a 2013 Mississippi Valley Conference divisional title in the final season of conference play and winning a district crown in the transition to district competition this season. Washington remains the top-ranked team heading into its regular-season finale at Burlington. The Warriors have outscored opponents, 36.6-9, on average. The Warriors defense has been stingy, allowing more than one score in just two games this season.

2. C.R. KENNEDY BOYS' GOLF - The Cougars bid farewell to an outstanding group of seniors after this season, finishing fourth in a tough field at Tournament Club of Iowa in Polk City earlier this month. The Cougars dominated the area competition, winning another MVC division crown and another district title, qualifying for an eighth straight state tournament. Kennedy remains in elite company, placing second at state two years in a row and top-four finishes for three straight.

3. LINN-MAR FOOTBALL - The Lions have had a fantastic turnaround season. Linn-Mar (7-1) can boast a district championship, heading into Week 9, after going 2-7 last year. Quarterback Ryan Schmidt has helped power the Lions offense, tallying 1,412 total yards with 144.8 passer rating. He also has 26 combined passing and rushing touchdowns, ranking third in Class 4A. The Lions balanced defense has been a big contributor to the success. Linn-Mar has forced 18 turnovers this season.

4. MARION VOLLEYBALL - The Indians have impressed this season, posting a 30-5 record heading into the Wamac Conference tournament Tuesday at Mount Vernon. Marion captured the Wamac West Division title and maintained its spot at third in the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union Class 4A rankings. The Indians have individual talent with libero Abby Phillips committed to play next year at Iowa State, and hitters Alyssa Thomas, Isabella Sade and Olivia Frazier all averaging more than 2 kills per set with kill efficiencies above .350.

5. CEDAR RAPIDS PRAIRIE BOYS' CROSS COUNTRY - The Hawks are defending state champions and have a legitimate chance for repeat gold. They have progressed as the season has, winning an MVC Super Meet team title. Prairie will compete in the district meet Thursday at Marshalltown, battling Linn-Mar for top team honors. Junior Tyler Van Draska is ranked third to lead Prairie runners. Matt Lorenz, a sophomore, and Jake Moore, a junior, are ranked 13th and 16th, respectively. A strong nucleus returns again next year.

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