Before we start...full disclosure time: My cousin plays for Chaminade. Yes, that Chaminade that just beat Grandview for the state title.

 I've covered high school sports for about seven years now but on those rare occassions that I get to work a college or pro event, I know that sometimes before the game an announcement will be made: "...No cheering from the press box."

Sports reporter's Rule No. 1: Be a professional, not a fanboy (girl). And this is actually pretty easy to do. Because, in truth, all sports reporters care about is writing a great story and beating deadline. And especially in my case, I'm not from Kansas City so I don't have emotional ties to the Chiefs, Royals or Wizards. But in my seven years, I've never had to hold fast to that rule no more than I did at the Missouri Class 5 boys' state championship game.

Hooray! Another blog! Well, kids as you sit there in front of your computer - completely overwhelmed at the sheer greatness that is Varsity Zone - several local teams are either competing in playoff games or heading on the road to do so.

This will be a busy weekend for me as I will travel to that booming and colorful metropolis known as Emporia for a Friday column and the next day, possibly cross back over the border all the way to sunny Columbia, Mo. for state championship coverage. That brings us to our topic of the day: The Grandview Bulldogs.

The team makes its first-ever appearance at the Show-Me Showdown this weekend. Grandview takes on Oakville on Friday for the rights to play in the state title game. First-timers on the cusp of a championship! Ooooooo, the drama. Who wants to miss witnessing that? Apparently, not even Bulldog fans.