Todd Freed

With its victory over defending state finalist Alief Elsik in the area round of the UIL boys soccer playoffs, the Bellaire Cardinals advanced to the third round of the postseason playoffs for the first time in 28 years. “It just means a lot to be able to guide these kids who’ve worked so hard all year. I really couldn’t be any happier and prouder of our guys,” said Bellaire head coach Daniel Ramirez.

With its post-season victory over Wisdom High School, the Memorial Mustangs boys soccer team secured its first playoff win in 25 years. The Mustangs then defeated Tompkins and Humble while advancing to the regional finals in the UIL 6A soccer playoffs. “The deep playoff run was historic, but this group of players had high expectations and kept focused on continuing to win,” said Memorial head coach Bryce Haskett.

It was history in the making for the Strake Jesuit Crusaders who finished in second place at the UIL 6A State Swimming and Diving Meet. While posting its highest finish in the team standings since joining the UIL in 2003, Strake Jesuit junior Jacob Bougaieff also became the first Crusaders swimmer to win an individual gold medal at the UIL State meet. Bougaieff captured the gold medal with his victory in the 100-yard breaststroke.