I never thought I’d be one of those guys who circled dates on the calender.  This winter?  I have no choice.

First off, congratulations to the teams, coaches and players celebrating titles this week.  It’s been a long wait for some and I imagine the giddiness will last quite awhile.

The Dahl E. Llama went 4-1 on championship Saturday, missing the Evanston/East game as the lone wrong pick.  It’s been said that the only thing harder than winning a title is defending it, now those teams begin that process.

With the first days of winter practice now underway this afternoon, there are some dates that have me very excited

November 23 - Yup, the first varsity “action” is only a handful of days away.  This is only a scrimmage that will take place in Preston, but if you can’t wait to see the new-look Braves in action, this is your chance.

November 29 - The Lady Braves have the honor of the first varsity contest in the 2007-08 winter sports season as they will host Snake River to open the season.

December 6 - The 2006 3A champion Braves wrestlers get to host Rock Springs for their first home match of the season.  I don’t think I’m stepping out of bounds by saying the Braves will be looking to send a message in what is now a conference duel.

December 20 - This one’s been on my mind for quite some time.  Although the Braves have been bumped into the 4A Class, the traditional game with Jackson will still take place, although just once in Jackson Hole.  As if this rivalry isn’t exciting enough (the two teams split last season) Star Valley resident and former Braves championship coach, Doug Broadhead, will be helming the Broncs.  If you thought it was wild in Teton County last year, we may be in for some crazy roundball right before Christmas.  Just watching how new SVHS coach Todd Dixon is continuing to preach effort and knowing what Broadhead brings to the table, there is not reason not to expect a barn-burner.

January 18 and 19 - Casper Natrona and Kelly Walsh will bring their girls team to SVHS for a bit of Western Wyoming hospitality, while the Braves will be in Casper doing their best to win a road game.

January 24 - One of the top programs in Wyoming will be entering our valley as the Green River Wolves will be looking to repeat what they did a year ago and knock off the Braves.

February 8 and 9 - The situation is reversed and the long-distance teams will hook up with the boys at home and the girls away.

February 15-16 - This might very well be my favorite on the whole list, as the teams representing the 4A West get to experience  a Star Valley February as the Wrestlers host the 4A West Regional Tournament.  Am I happy about some other schools having to make the 6-hour trip over “the pass” in February for a change?  Yeah, I am.  Am I a little too happy about it, thus putting me over the top and solidifying me in “jerk” status?  Yeah, probably.

February  22-23 - Ahh, State Wrestling for the Braves at the 4A level.  What should be expect?  I honestly don’t know.  I know the effort will be there, so after that, we can only do what we can do.  I’m just interested in finding out where the Braves’ fans will land upon having to move from their traditional section in the Events Center.

February 28 - Regional Basketball should be an absolute blast with the Braves joining with Evanston, Rock Springs, Green River, Natrona and Kelly Walsh in Evanston for a chance to go to the state tournament.  A chance to make a little history for the Braves and the Lady Braves.

Well, there you have it.  Did I miss some?  Let me know at svidahl@silverstar.com