Changes at the top shaped local sports landscape
23.02.12
There were new faces in high places.
And there were some familiar storylines we've all grown accustomed to, but never cease to be amazed by.
From the high schools to the pros, from pavement to ice, Kern County had an impressive array of storylines over the last year.
New leaders took over Condors hockey and CSU Bakersfield men's basketball, two of the higher profile sports programs in Bakersfield.
Meanwhile, wrestler Jake Varner coninued to shine on the international scene as he works toward an Olympic berth, and the Bakersfield High football team added to its unmatched history on the football field.
Additionally, a local product pitched in the World Series, another made a run at a NASCAR title, another rushed for 1,000-plus yards in the NFL, and the CSUB men's soccer and baseball teams became forces on the national scene.
Here are some high points of 2011, listed alphabetically, followed by a list of passings of three former local sports luminaries.
Source: Bakersfield Californian