Nov. 26--Bishop Mac back
A state-finals regular in the early years of the playoffs, Bishop McNamara will play for its first state championship since 1987 when it meets Tolono Unity in the Class 3A final at 4 p.m. Friday. The Fightin' Irish played in six title games in a 10-year span (1978-87) and won four championships. The common thread between then and now? Rich Zinanni, Bishop Mac's 41-year head coach.
Future bright
Looking ahead to 2016, Prairie Ridge, Waubonsie Valley and IC Catholic are well-positioned to be even better after reaching the semifinals this fall. Prairie Ridge started five sophomores, including quarterback Samson Evans, and led Montini by two touchdowns heading into the fourth quarter of its 35-27 loss last week. Waubonsie Valley also started five sophomores, while IC was led by a sophomore quarterback and junior, Division I-caliber running back.
Private issue
As many as five private schools can win state championships this weekend, which could renew calls for the separation of private and public schools. The IHSA has come out against it, but it's not out of the realm of possibility that enough public schools will ultimately band together on the issue.
Success breeds success
Montini made the jump from 5A to 6A this year because of a new IHSA rule known as the success factor, and the Broncos' return to the state finals means they will make another jump next year to 7A. They're in the state finals for the seventh consecutive year.
Mike Helfgot is a freelance reporter for the Chicago Tribune.
