Did anybody else only watch the Olympics to see Simone Biles?  But I guess there was more that went on this year in regards to sports other than the US Women’s Gymnastics team winning Gold. This year was a big year in sports with events like the Summer Olympics, Euro Cup, World Series, Super Bowl, etc.  Here are the highlights of each event in chronological order.

Starting off strong in February the Kansas City Chiefs took the win in the Super Bowl, facing the San Francisco 49ers and winning 22-25.  Was this win because of Patrick Mahomes’ teamwork with his receivers, or because of the Swifty energy coming from the stands?  A survey from “The Decider” showed that 20% of those who viewed the Super Bowl were rooting for the Chiefs because of Travis Kelce – haha funny joke – they were there for Taylor.

Next, in June, real football enthusiasts were all in on the Euro Cup final between Spain and England – a thrilling game ended with Spain defeating England 2-1.  Closing the celebrations were One Republic, Leony, and Meduza performing at the closing ceremony.

Close behind we have possibly the biggest event of the year – the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games.

As stated before, the US Women’s Gymnastic team won Gold with stellar performances by Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles, Sunisa Lee, Jade Carey, and 16 year old Hezly Rivera.  Rivera recently committed to Louisiana State University, Alma Matter of Livvy Dunne, former US National Gymnastics Team Member.  On a similar note, the US men’s gymnastics team won Bronze with Asher Hong, Paul Juda, Bordy Malon, and pommel horse specialist – Stephen Nedoroscik. Another exciting game was the US Women’s Rugby team, led by Ilona Maher,  facing Australia and winning Bronze.  In an interesting turn of events, both Ilona Maher and Stephhen Nedoroscik went on to perform in Dancing With the Stars alongside their professional partners, Alan Bersten and Rylee Arnod.  A highlight of the 2024 Paris Olympics was the debut of the Breakdancing Competition – an interesting show that you didn’t want to miss.

Next up the Paralympics – where we will dive into a heartwarming story focusing on the Woodhall family.  Hunter Woodall and Tara Davis-Woodhall, married since 2022, who both competed in track and field in their specific events.  Tara in the long jump and Hunter in the 400m dash.  Tara had a triumphant victory in the Women Long Jump Finals, winning Gold.  Not long after, Hunter won Gold in the Men’s 400m.  After his victory, the two olympians shared a heartwarming embrace, celebrating their victories.

Finishing off the year strong, the Dodgers faced the NY Yankees in the World Series, winning 7-6 in game five.

Ok I lied – finished off the year even stronger was the Talawanda Girls Cross Country team who made it to the State meet, finishing 4th and led by Lucia Rodbro who finished 13th individually.

The Tribune wishes all sports fans and athletes a happy and healthy 2025.