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March 3, 2010

Les Dixon - The Way It Is

Les Dixon, Sports Editor TheTimesTribune.com, Corbin, KY

CORBIN — The second day at the 13th Region Tournament was just as good as the first day — actually even better.

One of the first things I’m already tired of hearing is bickering media trying to pick apart The Arena. I’ve never seen anything like it — it’s only a few, though, and I just laugh and walk away when they begin their little tantrums.

I just don’t understand them. I know most of them like the games to be played at a high school gym, but for this sports editor, I say keep it at The Arena.

I like the space the media has on and behind press row and we don’t have to worry about getting in the way of the cheerleaders when we’re taking pictures or vice versa when the cheerleaders are trying to cheer.

I know I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again — no more split sessions, thank goodness, and we don’t have to worry about the gymnasium reaching temperatures hot enough to make you sweat the entire day.

I could go on and on about all of the positives, but I don’t have the space.

Yes, I’ll be the first to admit, there are some things that need to be worked on, but everything takes time.

Everyone just needs to be patient.

• I’m sure most already know about a couple of honest mistakes that were made in the 13th Region Tournament program and Harlan County High School took the brunt of it.

It didn’t take long for North Laurel athletic director and tournament manager Jimmy Durham to take care of the situation. Not only did North Laurel absorb the cost of getting the new programs printed, but they were already available on Tuesday.

Durham also let it be known that anyone associated with Harlan County High School can exchange the one they purchased for a new one at no cost.

Durham also sent out a letter of apology to Harlan County’s superintendent, principal, boys and girls basketball coaches and the athletic director.

I’ve known Durham for more than 20 years and he’s always been professional at whatever he does. Once again he showed what a class act gentleman he is by taking care of the situation in prompt action.

• The Lynn Camp Lady Wildcats were eliminated by Clay County on Tuesday and they should hold their heads high. Coach Richard Jones did a fantastic job getting his team back to the regional tournament for the second time in three years and doesn’t get the credit he deserves.

Lynn Camp might be a Class A school, but they  always play with a lot of heart and will continue to do so.

• I know I keep bringing up this interesting stat, but I’ve got to — it’s really impressive.

Clay County improved to 30-0 against 13th Region opponents during the past two years and 75-2 since the 2005-06 season - that’s what you call domination folks.

• We’ve got interesting matchups in the semifinals on Friday and to be honest, both games could go either way.

North Laurel has a slight edge on Harlan County, but the Lady Black Bears have been in this spot before, while Clay County is slightly favored against South Laurel, but the Lady Cardinals have enough talent to beat the defending region champs.

I could be wrong, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see both North and South Laurel battling each other on Saturday for the right to represent the 13th Region in Bowling Green.

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