Splashing Success: Water Polo Thrives in Cache Valley

Did you know that just a decade ago, water polo was practically non-existent in Cache Valley?

Now, we've got 72 kids, from age 10 to high schoolers, diving into the action.

That's like turning a desert into an oasis, but with more splashing and less sand.

Last weekend, the Ridgeline High School water polo teams hosted the annual Cache Classic, the only home tournament of the year, and it was a splash hit!

Eight clubs from Utah and Idaho came to compete, showcasing some serious talent and teamwork.

Our high school boys absolutely crushed it, winning 5 out of 6 games.

They didn't just win; they dominated, outscoring their opponents 70-28 in games against Cedar, Viewmont, and Canyon View.

It was like watching a pack of hungry piranhas go after a single goldfish – intense and decisive!

The girls' team wasn't about to be outdone.

They swept their competition, beating Wasatch High, Cedar City, and Canyon View High School.

It's safe to say that the future of water polo in Cache Valley is looking brighter than a freshly polished gold medal.

Water polo in the valley started from scratch in 2014.

That's less than a decade to go from zero to a thriving community with multiple age groups and competitive teams.

It's a testament to the dedication of the players, coaches, and parents who saw the potential and ran with it – or rather, swam with it.

Most people think that water polo is just swimming with a ball, but actually, it's a brutal combination of swimming, wrestling, and strategy.

It's like chess in a pool, but instead of moving pieces, you're trying to drown your opponent while simultaneously scoring a goal.

Okay, maybe not drown, but definitely outmaneuver them.

The growth of water polo here isn't just about sports; it's about building a community, teaching discipline, and creating opportunities for kids to excel in a unique and challenging environment.

Bronco's Bold Moves: Inside Mendenhall's Plan for USU Football Domination

Alright, Aggie faithful, let's talk some football!

Bronco Mendenhall is back in town, and he's not wasting any time shaking things up.

Forget open practices and public scrimmages – this spring, it's Fort Knox up in Logan.

Why the secrecy?

Well, Coach Bronco is playing chess, not checkers, in this new era of college football chaos.

Think of college football rosters like your fantasy football team, except instead of drafting players, other teams are trying to poach yours mid-season.

Mendenhall saw 14 players, including five projected starters, jump ship after last year's open spring ball.

That's like showing off your star wide receiver, only to have another owner whisper sweet nothings (and maybe a few NIL deals) in his ear. 

Most coaches would be screaming for more transfer portal access, but Mendenhall's got a contrarian take.

He's worried a proposed rule change – shrinking the December portal window and axing the spring one – could actually *hurt* Utah State.

Why? Because USU's early January start date for classes would effectively shut them out of the transfer market.

It's like being invited to the party but arriving after they've already turned off the music.

And it's not just the portal.

Mendenhall's also calling out the epidemic of fake injuries.

You know, when a player suddenly collapses after a signal from the sideline?

He says it's "simply wrong" and "not sportsman-like."

His solution? Force those players to sit out the rest of the series.

It's a bold move, let's see if it pays off.

But wait, there's more! The House Settlement is looming, threatening to cap rosters and change the game forever. Mendenhall believes USU will opt in, but he's not thrilled about the potential consequences.

Fewer roster spots mean fewer opportunities for walk-ons and a tougher time managing a healthy team.

It's like trying to build a house with half the lumber.

To navigate this new landscape, some schools are hiring "general managers" to handle roster management and NIL deals.

Mendenhall admits USU is "fast approaching" that point, but he's weighing the cost.

Is it worth the money to free up his time, or can he keep juggling fundraising, roster building, and coaching?

That's the million-dollar question.

So, Aggie fans, are you ready for this wild ride?

Can Mendenhall navigate the portal, the fake injuries, and the House Settlement to bring Utah State back to glory?

Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: it's gonna be one heck of a show.

Feed Utah: This Saturday, Let's Crush Cache Valley Hunger

Let's talk about something real: hunger. Not the "I skipped lunch" kind, but the "where's my next meal coming from?" kind.

Shockingly, one in nine Utah kids face this uncertainty.

That's like looking around a classroom and realizing a few of your buddies are straight-up wondering if they'll eat tonight.

But here's the good news: Cache Valley is stepping up.

This Saturday, March 15th, the annual Feed Utah food drive is going down, and it's a chance for us to be the heroes in someone else's story.

Think of it as your chance to flex those "good human" muscles and make a tangible difference.

Now, most people think food drives are just about clearing out that ancient can of beans from the back of the pantry.

And hey, every little bit helps. But, the Cache Community Food Pantry, led by the legendary Matt Whitaker, isn't just looking for any food.

They need the good stuff – the low-sodium, low-sugar, commercially packaged, nutritious fuel that keeps families going.

We're talking beef stew, chili, peanut butter, canned meats, and those life-saving canned fruits and veggies.

Whitaker and his crew are feeding approximately 950 people a month, and they're seeing more middle-class families needing a hand.

Why?

Because rent and food prices are skyrocketing. It's a tough spot, and the food pantry is a lifeline, not just for families, but for 25 other organizations in the area, including CAPSA and the Senior Center.

So, here's the deal: this Saturday, either leave a bag of goodies on your porch for the young volunteers to snag, or drop it off at one of the five designated sites: Macey's in Providence, the Food Pantry itself, or Lee's in Logan, Smithfield, and Richmond. 

So, I gotta ask: are you in?

One last thing: those QR codes on the door hangers?

Pay attention!

The one on the flyer goes to the Utah Food Bank, but the one on the attached card is your ticket to donating locally, directly to the Cache Community Food Bank. 

Or click here to donate and it stays right here in Cache Valley!

Are you ready to turn a simple act of generosity into a game-changer for a family in need?

Let's show Cache Valley what we're made of and pack those pantry shelves sky-high.

Who knows?

You might just be the reason someone sleeps a little easier this weekend.

Building a Legacy: Utah FFA Donates 100 Bird Boxes to Stokes Nature Center

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Utah FFA (Future Farmers of America) for their incredible generosity in building 100 new bird boxes for Stokes Nature Center!

These bird boxes, crafted with care and dedication, will play an important role in enhancing the natural habitats around the center.

These boxes aren’t just functional—they are a tribute. They were built in honor of the FFA members whose legacy continues to inspire future generations of environmental stewards.

This donation is a true testament to the spirit of community and conservation that the FFA embodies.

We are excited to see these bird boxes placed in their new home and look forward to the positive impact they’ll have on both the wildlife and the students who will learn in the outdoor classroom.

Thank you, Utah FFA, for your dedication and support of Stokes Nature Center and our community!

March 18th at the Hyrum Library

Smithfield City is Hiring!

Get Ready for the Magic of Mamma Mia! at Four Seasons Theatre!

The hit musical Mamma Mia! is coming to Four Seasons Theatre, and it's ready to light up the stage with unforgettable energy! From March 20-29, join us for a night of electric dance numbers, stunning harmonies, and captivating characters.

The powerhouse ensemble cast is at the heart of it all, bringing ABBA’s timeless hits to life with passion and precision.

From the heart-pounding beats of “Voulez-Vous” to the joyful celebration of “Dancing Queen,” these incredible performers will immerse you in the world of Mamma Mia!—creating magic, energy, and memories you won't want to miss.

🎶 "You can dance, you can jive..." Don't wait—get your tickets now at fourseasonstheatre.org before they're gone! 🎟

Use Code: 10off for and extra 10% off at Pink Pineapple

Alright, fashion fanatics, let's talk about something juicy.

No, not the latest celebrity gossip – even better.

I'm talking about Pink Pineapple Clothing, your soon-to-be style obsession.

You know how sometimes you feel like your closet is a black hole, sucking in all your money and spitting out nothing but outfit anxiety?

Yeah, Pink Pineapple is here to fix that.

They offer a range of styles, from casual loungewear to trendy denim, all designed to make you feel like the best version of yourself.

It's like they've cracked the code to effortless style.

Head over to Pink Pineapple Clothing and discover your new favorite pieces.

Trust me, your closet (and your wallet) will thank you. What are you waiting for? Go treat yourself!

From @epicfunnypage on Instagram

From @funny_memes_funny_jokes on Instagram

Support local, shop small, and enjoy everything Cache Valley has to offer!

Stay connected for more updates, and be sure to follow us on social media for the latest news, events, and community highlights.

See you around town!
– The Cache Valley Locals Team