The D8 league this year may -- arguably -- be the best it has ever been since it's inception in 1990-91.As discussed in my D8 commentary the other day, St. Mary's, St. Benedict, and Resurrection, all return significant portions of their team from a season ago (and they had a season, while others didn't --- which shouldn't be discounted).
Here's the initial rankings:
1. St. Mary's CHS / Kitchener
The defending D8 champions got off to a great start in the GTA, and find themselves at the top of the initial ranking. With solid inside and outside presences, the Eagles are certainly one of the most balanced CWOSSA teams.
2. St. Benedict CSS / Cambridge
The Saints have looked strong in early pre-season action, with Zubair Seyed, Alex Douglas and Justin Malnerich leading the way.
3. Resurrection CSS / Kitchener
Like the other D8 teams mentioned above, Rez returns a significant portion of their lineup (actually all 5 starters). They were 4-0 en route to a tournament championship in Sarnia last weekend.
4. Grand River CI / Kitchener
It should be a dogfight for the WCSSAA title this year, but -- on paper -- the Rens look like one of the possible favourites in my view.
5. St. James CHS / Guelph
With a 2-0 D10 start, including a win over JF Ross, I'll put the Lions in the #5 spot for now, although I probably could have put a handful of teams here --- we'll certainly know more after the next week's worth of games.
