Thursday, Oct. 13
Volleyball: Española Valley vs. Pojoaque Valley
Two teams headed in opposite directions, with the Sundevils (2-14, 0-2 in district) struggling to win sets (though they played close against Taos), while the Elkettes (12-2, 2-0) are soaring to start the season, now ranking as the No. 2 4A team in the state. Seniors Sonya Quintana and Anica Urioste lead the front row, with a talented group in the back. Española Valley continues to grow as a young team, with freshman starting setter Leah Vigil and libero Olivia Suazo.
Friday, Oct. 14
Football: Taos vs. Española
The Sundevils (5-2) are on a roll with a five-game win streak. But the Tigers (6-1) are even hotter, winners of six straight, losing only in their season-opener to St. Michael’s (6-1), and rank fifth in the most recent 4A coaches’ poll (Española is just outside the top 10). The Tigers have gone run-first this season, with senior quarterback Dameon Ely leading the team in rushing (Taos only has stats posted from their first three games). He will be in a quarterback duel with Nate Chacon, who has had a breakout season and emerged as a star player.
Football: McCurdy vs. Escalante
The Lobos (4-4) were slower than they would have liked in a district-opening win over Laguna-Acoma (3-5), while the Bobcats (3-5) struggled in their first district game. Expect a lot of running in this game, though both teams have shown glimpses of success when forced to pass. McCurdy has gone to a two-quarterback tandem of Lucas Martinez and Jeremaya Roybal, while Escalante’s Trey Archuleta has been a top-tier rusher.
Saturday, Oct. 15
Cross Country: Albuquerque Academy Pre-State Extravaganza
Teams around the state head to Albuquerque for a three-week-early preview of the upcoming state championship, on the same course with the same classifications. Of course, surprises could still happen, like Aubrey Cordova, who was 15th at the extravaganza last year, but shot up to sixth at the state championship. Española Valley freshman Neveah Cachora, having a strong opening season, will also see how she stacks up against top runners in the state.