The start of a great sports season

Post-Record reporters could be seen scurrying to and from local high school sports practices during the past two weeks, conducting interviews with coaches and athletes and taking pictures for the annual Spring Sports Preview.

The result is included inside today’s Post-Record, an eight-page full color special section that details how the coaches and athletes view the upcoming season, what their goals are and how the competition stacks up.

The next three months are going to be an exciting time. Here are just a few quotes to illustrate why:

o “What’s there not to be excited about? The facilities here are fantastic. The support from the school and community is amazing. I’m excited that it’s 60 degrees in March. That’s what I’m most excited about.”

— CHS baseball coach Steve Short, beginning his first season coaching the Papermakers

o “It’s like getting a giant jigsaw puzzle for Christmas. You’re already trying to see where the pieces fit. You couldn’t ask for a better sandbox to play in. I’m living my dream.”

— CHS track and field coach Alisa Wise

o “Last year was just horrible. This year is going to be different. I’m ready to come out and lead this team through every battle, and be one of the girls who shows what Camas softball is all about.”

— CHS softball player Katie Schroeder, providing her perspective as she returns after missing most of the 2014 due to illness.

o “There are really special relationships that will last throughout our lives. It’s very rewarding to have the girls and the boys come back [to visit].”

— Linda Balholm, WHS tennis coach who will retire at the end of the spring season.

o “I just want to have a great time and improve on everything.”

— WHS sprinter Christian Mishler

Yes, there is something special about high school sports in small town America, and Camas and Washougal are no exception.