With 2011 nearing its close, the Reporter is taking a look back at the best that was in the world of Bellevue area sports and recreation. From now until the end of the year, we will recap the best moments, stories and athletes of our area.

Team of the Year – Bellevue football

The Wolverines captured a fourth straight Class 3A state title to make it nine since 2001 and second four-peat in the same span.

Bellevue’s run is unprecedented in WIAA history and it is the only school to win three or more consecutive state championships in football in any classification. While the historical significance was not lost on players or coaches, the merits of this season alone are what give the Wolverines the edge for Team of the Year.

Consider the following.

Bellevue faced three teams that were ranked in at least one national poll in Oaks Christian (Calif.), Skyline and Lakes and defeated each, none by fewer than 10 points.

Skyline quarterback Max Browne was intercepted only five times all year in leading his team to the 4A state title and earning Gatorade Player of the Year for Washington. Against Bellevue, he tossed two of those five picks, one that was returned for a score. For the season, Browne tossed a ridiculous 43 touchdowns, but he managed only a single scoring pass against the Wolverines.

Lakes averaged 53 points in 11 games leading up to the state quarterfinal matchup with Bellevue and scored 60-plus five times. The Lancers managed only 14 in the only loss of the year to the Wolverines.

Also considered: Interlake girls soccer; Interlake boys golf; Bellevue boys basketball; Newport girls water polo; Bellevue softball; Bellevue East girls lacrosse; Sammamish cross country; Sammamish boys soccer; Bellevue College baseball

The rest of the Best: Humanitarian Recognition; Biggest Surprise; Comeback Story; Person of the Year; Most Inspirational; Contest of the Year