Boys’ Basketball
The boys’ basketball team looks to return to form this season after finishing with a 10-19 record last season. Senior big man Noah Hawkins (12, #42) will anchor the paint and senior guard Jordan McClendon (12, #21) looks to provide a spark to a Crimson offense that averaged just 60 points per game a season ago. The Crimsons hope to finish atop the district, with games against Central, St. Francis, Shawnee, and Portland Christian. Manual will play Male on Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m. at Manual.
Girls’ Basketball
Expectations are high for the girls’ basketball team this season. After a brief hiatus from the Sweet 16 last season, the Crimsons look to make a return trip to the postseason tournament held at Northern Kentucky University. Led by senior guard Jaela Johnson (12, #3) and junior forward Nila Blackford (11, #41) the Crimsons look to improve on a 21-9 record from last season. As always, the KHSAA girls’ basketball competition promises to be fierce, and the Manual girls are up to the task. The team will take on the Male Bulldogs at 6 p.m. on Dec. 1 at Manual.
Swim and Dive
The swim and dive team will hope to take the final leap this season and capture a state championship. After finishing in the top five last season, the Crimsons will are poised to take state in the 2017-2018 season. Senior Zorry Mason (12, HSU), who just signed her national letter of intent to continue her athletic and academic career at the University of Miami (FL), will lead the team this season. The team faces off against Male on Jan. 17 at 6:30 p.m. at Central High School.
Wrestling
Senior Jacob Bratcher (12, HSU) looks to lead the wrestling team this season. Last year Bratcher finished in the top five of the KHSAA state meet and received an invitation to compete at the national championship. After having a year to bulk up with muscle, he is primed for a state-championship run. Liam Lloydsmith (12, YPAS) and Connor Ridenour (11, HSU) will contribute to the state championship effort as well. The Crimsons will face off against Male on Jan. 31.
Bowling
The Crimson hope to return to the ranks of the top bowlers in the state this season. After the departure of Nick Rowan (Class of 2017), the Crimsons lost their identity as team. Seniors Elliott Brown (12, HSU) and Gracie Pounders (12, HSU) will lead the squad this season. The team will play Male at 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 18 at Executive Strike and Spare.
Archery
Will Custer (12, HSU) will try to improve on an outstanding 2016-2017 season in the new year. Last year Custer won the NASP 6th Region Boys Championship and qualified for the state championship tournament by shooting a 290/300. Manual will need significant contributions from its other team members if it hopes to win the state title. The state tournament has been dominated by Madison Central High School and Trigg County High school in the past 5 years.
Dance
The 2017-2018 Dazzlers are fired up to win their second state championship in three seasons. Led by seniors Hallie Viers (YPAS), Kelly Mack (YPAS), Sara Brummett (YPAS), Kailei Caggins (YPAS), Miller Thompson (YPAS), Maddie Balance (YPAS) and Emily Clark (MST), the team promises to rank amongst the state’s elite. The KHSAA state championship competition is on Dec. 16 in Lexington, KY. The Dazzlers will also make the trip to Orlando, FL in March to compete in the NDA national competition.
