Even before the Chieftains tip off Thursday against Abilene in the tournament at Salina’s Bicentennial Center, the girls already are winners.

Under the guidance of coach Randy Kraft, the Chieftains have worked their way to a 22-1 record this season. The lone blemish on their record this year was a three-point loss last month to Bonner Springs.

In addition to winning the substate title — no small accomplishment in itself — the girls won their fourth consecutive Kaw Valley League title and cut the cords at their own Tonganoxie Invitational earlier this year.

Their play this year has been a lesson in teamwork and determination, and it is something of which Tonganoxie High School and all of Tonganoxie can be proud.

Earlier this winter, three THS wrestlers got to experience a state tournament in Salina. They, too, know the sweat and work it takes and the rewards that can be reaped by committing to being as good as you can be. So congratulations, too, to Wyatt Coffin, Matt Brock and Cameron Adcox for their fine seasons.

We trust the Chieftain faithful will be vocal in Salina this weekend, rooting their girls to victory against Abilene and subsequent opponents. Don’t be overzealous, and always remember: Those opponents also are high school girls and have worked hard, too, to get to Salina

We wish the THS girls the best. The competition this weekend will be keen, but we believe if the Chieftains play to their potential, they can bring home their first state championship trophy.