Two weeks into the season, Frazier and Eden Christian are beginning to separate themselves as the early favorites. Both have tested themselves against tough competition and look built for a deep run, while Serra, St. Joseph, and California are hanging around in the mix. With plenty of time left, the 1A bracket already feels like it’s shaping into a battle between the top two and the rest of the field trying to keep pace.
1 – Eden Christian (3-1)
The Warriors jump to the top spot after an impressive week, taking down West Allegheny and South Park before falling to Beaver. Eden is testing itself against one of the toughest non-conference schedules in Class A, and that experience should pay off later in the season. With Ava Arnold still the star and Erin Hull running the offense, they look like the most battle-ready team in the classification.
2 – Frazier (2-1)
The Commodores picked up wins over Laurel Highlands and GCC, but a loss to West Allegheny in the Mt. Lebanon tournament quarters keeps them just behind Eden. Still, Maddie Salisbury and Addison Schultz continue to provide the firepower that makes Frazier dangerous against anyone.
3 – Serra Catholic (4-0)
The Eagles are off to a perfect start, turning heads with a strong showing at the Derry tournament before taking down St. Joseph in section play. With four starters back and a coach who knows how to win in November, Serra is building the kind of steady momentum that makes them a legitimate contender in Class A.
4 – St. Joseph (2-2)
The Spartans dropped a head-to-head with Serra but did claim the Deer Lakes tournament title, even if the competition there wasn’t top tier. Kate Giannetta continues to be the heartbeat of the team, but St. Joe’s still has something to prove against the heavyweights in Class A.
5 – California (4-0)
The Vulcans enter the rankings after a dominant 4-0 start, sweeping West Greene, Jefferson-Morgan, Mapletown, and Trinity Christian. None of those opponents were top-level, but you can only beat who’s in front of you — and Cal has taken care of business every time out.
On the Fringe
-
Fort Cherry – Reached the South Side Beaver tournament championship before falling to OLSH.
-
Beth-Center – Knocked off Fort Cherry and looks like a potential spoiler in the section race.
Out of the Rankings
-
Union (1-2) – Losses to Blackhawk and Shenango push the Scotties out of the Top 5 for now.
Games to Watch This Week
-
Monday, Sept. 8 – Frazier at Southmoreland: A good test for the Commodores against a solid 2A opponent.
-
Monday, Sept. 8 – Eden Christian at Moon: Another tough non-conference challenge for Eden as they continue to sharpen against bigger schools.
-
Thursday, Sept. 11 – Fort Cherry at Serra Catholic: Fringe vs. Top 5 — a chance for Fort Cherry to prove it belongs, or for Serra to show why it’s climbing fast.