Football, basketball, volleyball, golf, soccer, cross country, gymnastics, wrestling, swimming, track & field, and more filled our feeds this past year, featuring all the good news about our Portage athletes in their respective sports. There is so much talent to go around in our area, and we had a blast attending games, matches, meets, and more to help others see the action from a unique perspective.
Whether it was deep dives into clubs and high school sports, basketball invitationals, gymnastics sectionals, regional tournaments, new clubs, or anything in between, we shared it all in 2024 on behalf of the high schools and colleges that make our Region proud.
In no particular order, here are the top 10 sports articles on Portage.Life to recap the good news in 2024!
GreatNews.Life Region Sports Recap: January 2 – January 8
The Region is filled with amazing athletes across the board, and while GreatNews.Life doesn’t always get the chance to cover them, we can still highlight their accomplishments this week!
In the Duneland Athletic Conference Girls Basketball standings, there are two teams who really stand out: the Lake Central Indians and the Valparaiso Vikings. Both teams stand at (5-0) in conference play, and if they can keep their respective streaks alive, those teams meet on January 19 in a game that could potentially be the biggest of the season.
The exciting world of high school softball in Northern Indiana
High school softball is more than just a sport—it's an experience that shapes athletes, fosters teamwork, and creates lasting memories. In communities across the country, high school softball teams showcase talent, dedication, and the thrill of competition. Let's delve into the dynamic world of high school softball and explore what makes it so special.
Girls Tennis in the Region serves up success and sisterhood
As the seasons unfold, Girls Tennis teams are gearing up across the state. While the boys' season kicks off in the fall and the girls' season commences in spring, students and coaches alike eagerly anticipate what lies ahead. They await the development of team camaraderie and unity, as well as the blossoming of friendships, throughout the season.
Transitioning from the broader perspective of team dynamics and anticipation for the season, let's delve into the personal journeys of individual players. Understanding what initially attracted them to tennis and their experiences leading up to joining the high school team provides insight into their passion for the sport.
The inclusive spirit of Unified Track and Field extends beyond athletics
At schools across the Region, the Unified Track and Field program is more than just a sports initiative – it's a testament to inclusivity and equality. In an exclusive interview with coaches from different parts of the Region, GreatNews.Life (GNL) explored the roots of the program and what inspired its initiation.
Embracing esports in high schools across the state with skill development, community, and academic opportunities
The phenomenon of esports, or competitive video gaming, has gained worldwide popularity and is now being recognized and valued in high schools. In this article, we will explore the presence of esports in high schools, highlighting the numerous benefits for students, the scoring systems utilized, the sense of community fostered, and the opportunities created for personal and academic growth.
The captivating nature of esports is evident in the field’s rising popularity among high school students. The availability of video game live-streaming platforms and organized competitions has significantly contributed to this surge. High schools have begun to recognize the value of embracing this digital phenomenon and have started establishing esports programs. These programs provide students with a structured platform to compete, develop skills, and connect with like-minded peers.
The rise of lacrosse in high schools in the Region: Fostering athletes and building communities
Lacrosse, a sport steeped in tradition and excitement, has seen a significant rise in popularity among high school students in Northwest Indiana (NWI). The Region, known for its rich sporting culture, has embraced lacrosse as a thrilling and competitive athletic pursuit.
Lacrosse, often referred to as "the fastest sport on two feet," is a dynamic and exhilarating game that combines athleticism, skill, and strategy. Originating from Native American tribes, lacrosse has evolved into a highly organized sport played worldwide.
Boys Volleyball sets the stage for others all across the state and beyond
In Northwest Indiana (NWI), Boys Volleyball is a developing sport that is only going to get stronger.
Boys Volleyball started in the area in late 2022 as tryouts and teams began to form. These boys compete in a league called the Indiana Boys Volleyball Coaches Association (IBVCA). This league controls the standings and rules within the Region.
Gymnastics takes every victory with resilience as they take over the Region
The gymnastics teams all over Northwest Indiana (NWI) have made a lot of triumphs this 2022-23 season. Valparaiso High School won its 14th state title, Portage High School ended the season with great numbers, Crown Point High School placed 3rd after there state championship, Merrillville High School continued showing resilience and a great attitude, Lake Central High School placed 5th in the state at the end of the season and so on. Each team in NWI and beyond worked hard to get where they are, and it doesn’t go unnoticed.
These victories, big or small, wouldn't have been possible without the ladies on the squad along with the coaches.
High School Bowling teams all across Northwest Indiana are on a roll
Bowling in Northwest Indiana (NWI) is a hot commodity, especially in a high school environment. Schools like Valparaiso High School, Michigan City High School, Munster High School, Lowell High School, Wheeler High School, La Porte High School, and much more are competing in the Lakeshore Indiana High School Bowling Conference (Lakeshore IHSB).
Nicki Monahan-Keith showcases her vision for RedHawks basketball at press conference
Indiana University Northwest introduced Nicki Monahan-Keith in the McMahon Student Athlete Resource Room to as the next head coach of the RedHawks’ women’s basketball team.
After serving as an assistant coach for the past five seasons, she earned this role and is one of the university's most accomplished women’s basketball student-athletes.
As the program’s second all-time leading scorer with 2,319 points, she had her number 22 retired in 2022. She also captured A.I.I. Freshman of the Year, was a two-time conference player of the year, and a three-time NAIA All-America selection.