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.

Male Athlete of the Year – Jordan Todd, Interlake

There are a bevy of accomplished, qualified student-athletes in Bellevue in 2011. But the numbers, records, accomplishments and humble attitude give Jordan Todd the edge for Male Athlete of the Year.

Five touchdowns in the first half of a rivalry game?

Check.

Another five scores with the team’s back against the wall to move on in the playoffs?

Check.

A 359 yard game against the eventual state champions to break the state rushing record by five yards?

Double check.

Todd was without a doubt the most explosive player in 2A/3A KingCo and one of the most accomplished players in the state in 2011.

He carried the ball 20 times or more in eight of the Saints’ 12 games, gaining 100 yards or more on nine occasions, 200 or more eight times and 300-plus three times, with a season-best of 432 in the playoff win over Franklin-Pierce.

All the while, Todd remained the same unassuming, humble teammate those around the Interlake program have come to know throughout his prep career.

“As the season went on, there were people asking about records and numbers and it didn’t matter to him,” Interlake coach Jason Rimkus said of Todd. “He helps those around him get better by who he is as a person.”

Also considered: Isaac Dotson, Newport football and basketball; Daniel Nortz, Bellevue Christian cross country and track and field; Luat Le, Interlake boys golf; John Steinberg, Sammamish basketball; Jared Fisher, Newport baseball; Adrian Sampson, Bellevue College baseball

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