2013-14 Section 4A Preview

This is the 13th preview in my 2013-2014 season preview series.  In the first set of previews, we took a look at 11 metro area conferences and some independents.  In this second set of previews, its time for predictions in 13 metro area sections.  We'll begin with a look at Section 4A.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Section 4A
Defending Champion: Maranatha (2013 state runner up)

Predicted Seeding

1. Maranatha
2. Minneapolis North
3. Southwest Christian

I see it a down year in section 4A.  The top 3 teams from last year (MCA, West Lutheran and Heritage) lost a ton, the 4th lost a ton too and moved up to AA (St. Croix Prep) and Metro Tech at 5th has folded.  At 6, North's new infusion of talent and Larry McKenzie at the helm will propel them in to the section title discussion.  The bigger school schedule will prepare them too.  For 7 and 8 last year, CHOF is still young and MTS does have everybody back but neither team was very good last year.  Southwest Christian has plenty coming back and can be scary enough to play with anybody in the section.  They move in from section 2 as a team that can compete.  They played all the top teams in the section tough last year.

Sleeper:  Prairie Seeds Academy.  The Lycans may revert to human form and be rebuilding or revert to their werewolf form and jump up and bite people.  With the old guard back in place, I have them on the watch list.

Section Winner: Maranatha.  The Mustangs have to be the pick, despite all of their losses, until otherwise beaten.  North's youth and 1st year in the McKenzie system keeps them out of the top pick.