It passed without mention this past week, but if Harold Camping was allowed to monopolize national headlines in 2011 with a pair of failed end-of-the-world prophecies, we should at least acknowledge the passing of Dec. 21. The steady year-long countdown to the end of the Mayan calendar has begun.

Now, in fairness, the Mayans don’t actually predict the end of the world on Dec. 21, 2012. They simply didn’t bother to extend their calendar beyond that date. From there, you get to fill in the blanks with your own theories.

Admittedly, I give the whole hubbub regarding the Mayan calendar signifying the end of the world only slightly more credibility than I give to the political promises I hear coming out of Iowa presently. Still, like a good Boy Scout, I’m all about being prepared.

Thus, just in case the world really should be 358 days away from oblivion, I feel it is my duty to point out a few important sports-related details that folks should take note of.

Of course, since championship banners aren’t usually raised until the first game of the following season, you still won’t get a chance to see that championship pennant fluttering over ivy covered outfield walls.

And just think of how much the NCAA might be wishing for the Mayans to be right. After two years of watching teams play musical chairs in and out of conferences, the growing din for a college football playoff and an ever-widening circle of scandals at flagship institutions, having everything just poof out of existence next December might be the only chance they have of getting out from under public scrutiny.

If the world is coming to an end next December, I have just one year left to continue my personal battle with Heart Mountain. The big rock got the better of me on my climb to the top this past year. I plan on making a comeback in 2012, after which I’ll maybe celebrate atop Avalanche Peak in Yellowstone.

Of course, that’s not the only local thrill I’d have to give in to. If the world is coming to an end, I’d have to make good on that now three-year goal to take a whitewater trip down the Clark’s Fork canyon. Who knows, I might even reconsider my closely held personal belief that there’s no sane reason for a human being to jump from a perfectly functioning aircraft and give skydiving a try.

Maybe.

But, really, faithful reader, there’s no need for the possible end of the world to get out and cheer a little harder or enjoy life a little more in the year ahead. You can do those on your own, regardless of circumstance. In fact, it would make a great resolution for those of you still pondering one for this New Year’s Day.

And on Dec. 22, 2012, we can all sit around sharing the stories of the previous year.