By Thomas Jones, Sports Editor

Santa and a sportswriter have much in common, really, although St. Nick dresses better. Both graze on free grub while doing their job, and both suffer accordingly when it comes to increasing belt size. Both have a tendency to grow fuzzy facial hair, and both work on the holidays.

Both often dole out gifts, although an iPod or Wii always seems a tad more popular than an Athlete of the Week recognition.

With those comparisons in mind, I present a few more gifts to slip under the tree on this Christmas Eve:

For Westlake football coach Derek Long, one more minute.

Because that’s what the Chaps needed in their regional final contest against San Antonio Clark a few weeks ago. Down by three points, Westlake took possession of the ball on its own 11-yard line with 1:23 on the clock. The Chaps moved past midfield, but a series of desperate passes fell incomplete as time ran out on the season.

For Westlake girls basketball player Cherrell Mays, new knee pads.

Because she’ll need them by January, based on the number of floor burns garnered during nondistrict play. Mays adds a needed element of toughness and hustle to a loaded Chap squad led by Caroline Durbin and Courtney Duever, and her ability to come up with loose balls and steals on the perimeter will key any Westlake claim to the district crown.

For Westlake volleyball coach Al Bennett, a redrawing of the state’s boundaries.

Just so the Panhandle can become part of Oklahoma. Bennett’s Chaps have lost to Amarillo in the state championship match in each of the past two years.

For Westlake football player Ryan Swope, a little more statewide recognition. 

The Associated Press remains one of the most respected news organizations in the country, but their Texas sports bureau could use a larger perspective when considering its Class 5A all-state team. All three of its first-team running backs are from the Metroplex. Not coincidentally, the AP Texas bureau is based in Dallas. Swope should have been one of the top six RBs selected to the first- or second-team.

For any Westlake boys basketball player, a continuation of the dream.

The Chaps have embraced new coach Tres Ellis’ uptempo attack with a gusto few expected. They enter district play with a 14-3 record and a bevy of confidence. If you gotta pinch ‘em, wait until spring. 

For Westlake coach Bob Abbott, a restful and recuperative holiday.

Like most coaches, Abbott doesn’t know how to give less than 100 percent when he’s on the football or baseball practice field. But a heart attack and triple-bypass surgery will force even a most active coach like Abbott to tone it down. Listen to the doctors, Coach, and watch as much of the baseball season as you can from a seat in the dugout. Besides, you’ll likely enjoy another lengthy playoff run based on recent showings by the Chaps.

For any Westlake sports fan, a renewed sense of appreciation.

Be honest. It’s easy to get spoiled by the Chaps’ accomplishments. From the short drives to the state golf and tennis meets to longer playoff ventures for sports such as football, volleyball and baseball, playoff wins are as common as exemplary school ratings in Westlake. Take time this year to visit the school for a regular-season game in any sport. There are less folks, smaller stakes and a lack of going-home-to-cry-if-I-lose intensity. But the Chaps still give all they have. Once you see that effort, you’ll understand the essence of Westlake’s success.