This year's a different story, though, as the Falcons (14-5-3) won their first outright league title since 1997 and will host West Covina (11-12), the San Antonio League's No. 3 team, today at 3 p.m. in a CIF Southern Section Division II first-round game.
Unlike last season, it appears as if the collective Crescenta Valley mindset is directed at the playoffs.
"We're ready to go," said Falcons Coach Cesar Hidalgo, who will rely on steady contribution from senior goalie Emma Dearman, sophomore midfielder Brittany Berger and freshman forward Summer Davidson among others.
Flintridge Prep at Santa Monica, 3 p.m., Division III first round: The Rebels, fresh off a thrilling 2-1 overtime win against Righetti in a wild-card match, travel to face Ocean League-champion Santa Monica.
The Rebels (12-9-3) finished third in the Prep League and will call on the services of All-CIF players Lauren Von Der Ahe, a senior forward, and Ayana Sumiyasu, a senior goalie.
Santa Monica (21-1-3) is the tournament's third seed.
GIRLS' WATER POLO
Crescenta Valley vs. Santa Ynez at Burbank High, 3 p.m., Division IV second round: During the first round of the CIF water polo tournament, the Falcons (16-8) were at home enjoying a bye, while their Friday opponent, Santa Ynez (16-12), was pummeling Webb, 22-6.
The Falcons, who won their fourth consecutive Pacific League title this season, look to advance to the quarterfinals for the second straight year.
They'll be led against the Los Padres League second-place finisher by senior drivers Lybov Tchougounova and Ashley Masters.
Glendale vs. La Salle at Pasadena City College, 3 p.m., Division IV second round: The Nitros have been on quite a roll as of late, upsetting a previously league-undefeated Burbank in the Pacific League tournament and most recently defeating Louisville, 12-6, on Tuesday in a CIF wild-card match.
