Last year, we were treated to a gold medal showdown between the senior varsity girls teams of Cochrane High Cobras and Bow Valley Bobcats in the Cochrane Classic final.

Though that wasn't the case this year, both local teams medaled in the Dec. 8-9 tournament which is a long-time Cochrane tradition.

The Cochrane Cobras lost to Mother Margaret Mary Catholic High, of Edmonton in the final, 50-40. The Bobcats beat Morinville, 71-33, to claim bronze.

"It's not quite perfect as we had it last year where the two Cochrane teams met in the final, but, yeah, absolutely, always good for the hometown teams to succeed in their tournament, for sure," says Doug Jensen, coach of the senior varsity Cobras and a long-time organizer of the tournament. 

Last year was the first time the two local teams met in the finals. By design, they don't meet in the tournament except in playoffs because the teams see each other, once, twice, or even three times a year.

The junior varsity Cobras won the consolation event and the Bobcats lost their final game to Camrose, 50-30.

A berth in the Cochrane Classic is always in high demand and fills quickly. They accept eight teams in junior and senior divisions and commonly play other 3A schools they might meet later in the season.

"We're trying to not only feel out our own teams and see where we're at, but it's a good measuring stick for the rest of the year, and see where the stronger teams sit."

Years ago, the girls and boys tournaments were held on the same weekend. Now the boys teams play on a separate week. Cochrane Classic Pt. 2 is scheduled for February.

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