Something Special Indeed
Queens of the Mid-State Conference. Spring queens, at any rate.
The Boone Central Lady Cardinals have earned that title with three consecutive conference track & field championships. And, make no mistake, Saturday’s ‘three-peat’ victory at Pierce was a true track & field performance.
Almost before the competition could get warmed up Saturday morning, the Cardinals began their assault with 1-2-3 sweeps in the discus and shot put, as well as a victory in the long jump. Building on that early blitz, Boone Central sprinted to its historic third title with another impressive display on the track.
There were six gold medal performances. Several near-misses at victory and lower placewinners contributing valuable points. All adding up to a 37-point margin of victory over runner-up Hartington C.C. and a joyous victory lap for the third straight April.
This has obviously been an impressive run, put together by an impressive group of young athletes. No doubt about it, we’ve been witnessing a golden cycle of success by the Boone Central girls athletic program.
The three straight Mid-State track & field championships might be the most tangible proof, but there have been plenty of additional accomplishments. Tremendous basketball seasons, including back-to-back state tournament appearances in 2009 and 2010. Consecutive state golf championships. Cross country runners qualifying for, and placing in, the state meet.
Even in sports that have come up short of state success, the Lady Cardinals have persevered and competed with fervor and grace. And therein lies the key. This period of female athletic prowess at Boone Central has been about more than mere talent.
Oh, these Lady Cards have certainly possessed talent and skill. But there has been so much more. Dedication. Competitiveness. Team spirit and joyous attitude. Sportsmanship. Confidence. Yet, also humility.
The whole package.
Wrapped together, these ingredients not only produce winners, but individuals and teams that represent their communities, school and families in the right manner. It becomes something all Cardinal fans can take immense pride in, for many have had a hand in the process. Parents, coaches, teachers, peers, the athletes themselves.
Enjoy it, but don’t take it for granted. Not every community or school is so blessed. The challenge now is for the Cardinals to keep the cycle spinning in a positive direction.
Some who have contributed to this exciting chapter in Boone Central history have moved on to their next endeavors. Several more will depart soon. Others will be back, prepared to write yet another chapter. New faces will join the story.
These Lady Cards have quite a tale to tell, a legacy established. As fans, we applaud them and eagerly await the thrills ahead.
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