For Laurel Patch, 2011 was chock full of interesting storylines and compelling games, from high school coaching changes to heated prep rivalries. Numerous athletes and coaches with Laurel ties are making an impact at the college and pro levels. However, we whittled that list down to just five:

1) Maryland women’s basketball coach Brenda Frese faced her most daunting challenge off the field when one of her twin sons was diagnosed with leukemia during the NCAA Tournament in March.

2) Is any element of society safe from a reeling economy? Players, parents and coaches were shocked to learn that Prince George’s County Public Schools instituted a “pay for play” policy for high school sports.

3) Nigerian-born OgheneMaro Erhie spent his life playing soccer. That’s why you’ll be surprised to learn that this Laurel High graduate is now an offensive lineman on the Bowie State football team. Yes, American football.

4) Fifteen-year-old German exchange student Friedrich Krohn has always enjoyed distance running to stay in shape. After arriving in the United States, he more than pleased to find out that his beloved hobby is actually a high school sport. His coaches certainly aren’t complaining, either.

5) Pallotti grad Anniesa Faulkner wasn’t about to let a slew of injuries (and their resulting surgeries) derail her college career. Instead, she persevered and became a key cog on the University of Maryland’s women’s soccer team.