JumpStart - Winter 2016 Sports Preview

Table of Contents

Cover story

Finding motivation

Packer boys heading into new season determined Page 3

Season previews

Austin Packers.......Pages 4-9 Southland Rebels............. Pages 10-11 Hayfield Vikings...............Pages 12-13 Grand Meadow Superlarks.........Pages 14-16 Lyle-Pacelli.........Pages 17-18 Blooming Prairie Awesome Blossoms.......... Pages 19-20 LeRoy-Ostrander Cardinals.......... Pages 21-22

Features

5 Things to Watch

A rundown of the top five story lines to watch during this winter season.

Page 20

State Tournament Headquarters

Get the lowdown on tournaments locations.

Page 21

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

An Austin Daily Herald publication

Story previews compiled by Rocky Hulne and layout by Eric Johnson Riverland men’s and women’s basketball schedules

Page 23

Follow sports writer Rocky Hulne and photographer Eric Johnson on Twitter

@RockyHulneADH

@EricJohnsonADH

Get all the reports, scores and photos from your area sports teams

University of Minnesota

Men’s and women’s basketball schedules.

Page 24 The Austin Packer Dance Team in action this past January.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Finding Motivation

After a tough loss in playoffs to Northfield, Austin boys heading into new season determined Story by Rocky Hulne headed into this season,” Both said. “I Throughout the summer, the Austin feel like we have good chemistry. We boys basketball team had a lot to ponall know each other’s der. They finished last games and what year with a 22-6 overwe’re capable of doall record, but their ing.” season came to an end much sooner than The junior trio have they would’ve liked played together for when they lost 64-61 much of their basin overtime to Northketball lives and they field, a team they had have no problem swept in the regular sharing the ball when season. needed. While all But the Packers three can create their didn’t stay down own shot or make a for long. Soon they play off the dribble, found motivation and they have a trust Austin’s junior trio of bond that will make Tate Hebrink, Duoth the Packers a tough Gach and Both Gach team to defend this are ready to make this season. year their best year as “We can all score,” Austin’s Tate Hebrink drives for a varsity players.

Duoth said. “We just lay-up attempt against Northfield “It still haunts me,” have to find the open in the first half of their semi-final Hebrink said of the loss match-up last season at Mayo guy.” to Northfield. “It defi- Civic Center. Herald file photo If Austin wants to nitely motivates us.” reach its potential, Both, who averaged it’ll have to begin 10.5 points per game playing shut-down last season, and Hebdefense on a regular rink, have been on basis. At times, the the varsity team since Packers struggled to they were freshmen get stops last season — Tate Hebrink and they’re hoping to and Duoth, who led Austin guard make gains in that dethe Packers with 13.7 points per game, partment this winter. while shooting 44 per“We’ve got to work cent on 3-pointers last on defense,” Both season, is on his second year with the said. “We’ve got to keep the guy in front varsity team. of us on the wings.”

“I feel like we’re ready. We have a lot of experience and we’re confident See AUSTIN, Page 4

“It still haunts me. It definitely motivates us.”

Duoth Gach dunks in a game against Rochester Mayo last December in Packer Gym. Herald file photo AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

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Looking to make strides The Austin boys basketball team has a deep and talented squad and its hoping it can take the next big step as a program this winter.

The Packers, who went 22-6 overall last season, have seven seniors and a strong group of underclassmen set to step up.

“We’re awfully deep and we have good young kids,” Austin head coach Kris Fadness said. “Our practices will be great because of the talent level that we have. I don’t think we’ve ever been this talented from top to bottom.”

The Packers will bring back juniors Duoth Gach, who averaged 13.7 points per game last season, Both Gach, who averaged 10.5 points per game last year and Tate Hebrink.

The team will also look to get production out of seniors Oman Oman, Kyle Oberbroeckling, Trent Brown, Tyler Tupy and Jany Gash and sophomore Moses Issa.

Oberbroeckling said the Packers will have to play their style of basketball to stay on top this season.

“We’re really excited. As a senior it’s my last go round and I want it to be my last one.

We have a lot of depth and we have a lot of guys who know what they’re doing,” Oberbroeckling said. “We can’t play down to our opponent, we always have to play our game.

If we play down to people, than they can play with us. I’m not saying we’re invincible, but we’ve got to play our game all of the time.”

Fadness said he’s hoping to play 10 players per game this season, but that could be a challenge to do consistently.

One thing the Packers will definitely have to do is step on the defensive end.

“We’ve got to get better defensively. I thought we took plays off at times last year,” Fadness said. “There needs to be a toughness where you don’t want teams to ever score.

You have to treat every possession like it’s 0-0 whether you’re up by 20 or down by 20. You should have enough pride defensively that it hurts you when the other team scores.”

“I’m not saying we’re invincible, but we’ve got to play our game all of the time.”

— Kyle Oberbroeckling Austin senior 4

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

Austin’s Both Gach floats a shot against Albert Lea in the second half last season in Packer Gym. Herald file photo

Austin’s Kyle Oberbroeckling battles with Stewartville’s Sam Barnes for a rebound in the first half of their first-round match-up in the Section 1AAA Tournament last season in Packer Gym. Herald file photo

Schedule/Home games in bold Dec. 6..........................................vs. Byron, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 13..............................at Mankato West, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 16....................................vs. Faribault, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 17............................at Kasson-Mantorville, 7 p.m.

Dec. 20......................................at Red Wing, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 22......................................vs. Winona, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 28..........................................at Caledonia, 5 p.m.

Dec. 30...................................at Stewartville, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 3.....................vs. Rochester Century, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 6....................................vs. Northfield, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 10...............................at Mankato East, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 12.......................vs. Rochester Mayo, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 14..............at Rochester John Marshall, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 17.....................................at Owatonna, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 20..................................vs. Albert Lea, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 27..........................................at Winona, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 30...........................vs. Mankato West, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 3..........................................at Faribault, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 10........................at Rochester Century, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 14......................................at Northfield, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 17............................vs. Mankato East, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 21...........................at Rochester Mayo, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 24.................................vs. Owatonna, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 25.....................................at Albert Lea, 7:30 p.m.

March 3......vs. Rochester John Marshall, 7:30 p.m.

Austin: Getting over the hump From Page 1 Austin head coach Kris Fadness said Austin put up a lot of wins last season, but he wants the team to take the next step this season. That step would involve the Packers winning some hardware.

“While 22-6 was a good year, I don’t know if we had any marquee wins,” Fadness said. “We’ve got to find a way to get over the hump and quite honestly the goal is to win championships here, whether it be a conference championship or a section championship or both. That needs to be the next step this year.”

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

A new leadership, a new look for Pack The Austin girls basketball team will have new leadership and a much different look this season as it must replace its two top scorers.

The Packers will turn to Austin grad Anna Meyer to take over as head coach and the team will have to replace the scoring of Shayley Vesel, who graduated, and Ruth Koang, who moved out of the district. Meyer said there is a mix of seniors and new players who are expected to chip in.

“We’re definitely relying on our seniors to step up and have a huge year for us,” Meyer said. “They have a lot of experience and I’m really looking for their experience to help us out on the defensive end. Our younger girls have some big shoes to fill, but I think they’re excited and very capable of doing that.”

Austin senior point guard Rebecca Younis said the veteran players have looked to push the pace in practice to help the new players adjust to the speed of varsity basketball. She feels that Austin should be able to improve throughout the year and make some strides down the stretch.

“Our team’s really young this year, but we have a lot of talent and I think that’s going to take us really far this season,” Younis said.

“We’re going to be kind of the underdogs of our conference.”

Austin senior Awenia Nywesh said the team has a lot of players vying for playing time, which has made things competitive

in practice.

“It’s a competitive atmosphere,” Nywesh said. “There’s a lot of good girls out this year.

I think we’ll have a good season. There’s a lot of energy and we’ve been working hard.”

One thing the Packers are focusing on is

“We’re definitely relying on our seniors to step up and have a huge year for us.”

— Anna Meyer Head coach building team chemistry. Amber Hansen, a senior forward, said the team has learned that it needs to communicate to be successful.

“We’re working on working on as a team and talking to each other [on the court] and that’s something that we’ve struggled with over the last couple of years,” Hansen said.

“It’s going well so far and we like our new coach.”

Meyer said the team has shown a big work ethic early on and she’s looking forward to the progress the team can make throughout the season.

“The girls are showing up to practice and they’re working their butts off every day,” Meyer said. “That’s all we can really ask right now, but they’re going to have take bigger strides and the season’s going to be tough. I think they’re all ready for that challenge.”

Austin’s Rebecca Younis cuts to the hoop against Faribault’s Breanna Bresnahan during the first half last year in Ove Berven Gym. Herald file photo

Schedule/Home games in bold Nov. 29...................................Austin 65, Stewartville 35 Dec. 1....................vs. Kasson-Mantorville, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 2...................................vs. Albert Lea, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 6...............at Rochester John Marshall, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 10..............................................vs. Byron, 3 p.m.

Dec. 13..........................vs. Mankato West, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 16........................................at Faribault, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 20...................................vs. Red Wing, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 22..........................................at Winona, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 3...........................at Rochester Century, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 6.........................................at Northfield, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 10...........................vs. Mankato West, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 12............................at Rochester Mayo, 7:30 p.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Jan. 14........vs. Rochester John Marshall, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 17..................................vs. Owatonna, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 20......................................at Albert Lea, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 27.......................................vs. Winona, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 31................................at Mankato West, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 3......................................vs. Faribault, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 7........................................at Red Wing, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 9.....................vs. Rochester Century, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 14..................................vs. Northfield, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 17................................at Mankato East, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 21.......................vs. Rochester Mayo, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 24......................................at Owatonna, 7:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

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On the hunt for state trip No. 6 Mullenbach returns defend title, Schmit takes over program

The Austin gymnastics team is looking for some veteran athletes and a new head coach to lead the way as it pursues its sixth straight trip to the state meet.

Matt Schmit, who has been an an assistant coach for the past three years, moves into the head coaching position for the Packers. Schmit said that he’s learned a lot about gymnastics from surrounding coaches Doug Amundsen, Rob Murray of Winona and Dave Maras of Brainerd. He’s also gotten some help from former Austin head coach Mark Raymond.

“The gymnastics community in Minnesota is incredible,” Schmit said. “Mark Raymond is one of the best coaches in the state and he has been a great mentor and friend. We have been fortunate to have some very talented gymnasts in our gym the past four years that have been very good to me and allowed me to learn with them. I can remember Sela Fadness, Abby Bickler and several others throwing skills for me over and over so I could learn my first year on the team.”

Austin seniors Maddie Mullenbach and Paige Raymond have competed at state in every year they’ve been on the gymnastics team. Mullenbach won her first All-Around state title last season, but she’s taking this season step by step.

“If I get too far ahead of myself, I kind of get off kilter,” Mullenbach said. “I’m hoping to have a little more fun this year. I’ve accomplished what I want to accomplish and maybe I want to throw out some fun stuff and prep for college a little bit. I’m taking it day by day, working as hard as I can and I’m trying to enjoy it.”

Austin finished fourth place as a team at the state meet last season and the team is set on getting back to the big stage again this year.

Raymond said the state meet is the goal of every gymnast on the team.

“The goal is [to get to state] and everyone knows that’s what the goal is,” she said.

“That’s really the judgement on our season.

When I was first starting in seventh grade, it was a really big experience. Being able to keep going back has been a lot of fun.”

Raymond and Mullenbach both said they’re excited to to have Schmit in as head coach. Schmit said he has simple goals for his team which include facing fears, being leaders, practicing with purpose, supporting each other and having fun.

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

“What we can control is our attitudes.

We can choose to be people of character in the classroom, at home, in the community and in the gym.”

— Matt Schmit Gymnastics head coach ourselves in the best position to be successful during competition.”

Mullenbach has taken Schmit’s advice to heart and she’s hoping the Packers can grow close as a team this season.

“I think part of competing well is having a good relationship with your teammates,” she said. “We’re pretty tight, but I think there’s more that we can do. Maybe we can do a little more stuff outside of the gym.”

Schedule/Home meets in bold

Maddie Mullenbach will return to try and defender her Minnesota State Gymnastics individual all around championship from last season. Herald file photos

Dec. 8.....................................vs. Faribault, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 15.....................................vs. Winona, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 5........................................at Northfield, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 7.............................................at Faribault, 11 a.m.

Jan. 12...............................vs. Owatonnna, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 19......................................at Red Wing, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 27............................at Rochester Invite, 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 2................................at Mankato Invite, 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 11..............at Big Nine meet in Red Wing, 3 p.m.

Austin’s Paige Raymond performs on the uneven parallel bars at the Class A Minnesota State Gymnastics Meet last season.

“What we can control is our attitudes,” Schmit said. “We can choose to be people of character in the classroom, at home, in the community and in the gym. Being successful is not a switch you turn on and off but rather a mentality that we work on every day. We believe by doing those things well we will put AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Coming to the floor with emotion The Austin Packer Dance Team is looking to take the next step as a program this season.

After competing in the last 14 state tournaments, Austin is hoping to make a push to finish higher than its fourth place finish last season.

The Packers have a strong group of 10 seniors and 17 juniors and they’re ready to give it their all.

“They’re definitely hungry,” Austin head coach Kayla Sellers said. “We take it day by day, and right now we’re trying to get a solid routine together. We want to get better every year, so we want to finish higher than we did last year. We want to be more unified and I think they’ve really stepped up to the plate and come in with great attitudes and positivity.”

Austin senior Madison Klein, one of the team’s captains, said the squad has plenty of experience and the right work ethic to have a strong season.

“I think we have a really strong team this year. We don’t have a lot of newbies.

I feel like we’re really, really strong,” Klein said. “I think there’s always room to grow, especially early in the season. But we know in the next couple of weeks we’ll reach that and then it’ll be fine tuning.

We’re already nit picking and that makes us stronger.”

The Packers have made some adjustments to their routine this season and they’re looking to bring out some emotion when they take the floor. Austin has used dramatic performances in the past, but they were a little more spooky and inyour-face.

“In year’s past it’s been portraying a character and this year it’s more about evoking a feeling the audience. We always have to

The Austin Packer Dance Team gave family and friends their first look at this year’s jazz and high kick routines his past November in Ove Berven Gym. Herald file photo evolve and grow as a team and this is our step to grow,” Sellers said. “We just have a really good group of girls and they make it so easy for me. They’re such a well oiled machine.”

Having a big group of upperclassmen makes it a little easier for the captains to share their responsibility. Austin senior captain Cloey Thorpe said the whole team has stepped up in that department.

“It’s a lot of responsibility, but the girls are really good about helping out,” she said.

“The juniors are really stepping up to the plate and showing the younger girls what they can do.”

Schedule/Home games in bold Dec. 3.............................................at Apple Valley, TBA Dec. 10....................................................at Fridley, TBA Dec. 15...............................................at Albert Lea, TBA

Dec. 17.......................................at Holy Academy, TBA Jan. 14..............................................at Bell Plaine, TBA Jan. 21.............at Big Nine Meet in Rochester JM, TBA

The Austin Daily Herald is on Twitter Follow all the area action, both during the regular season and post season.

Get updates as they happen from the sidelines with sports editor Rocky Hulne: @RockyHulneADH AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

See photos of the action before they hit the paper with photographer Eric Johnson: @EricJohnsonADH FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

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Packers will look for strength in unity Jason Merritt takes over as new head coach The Austin boys hockey team has a new coach and some veteran players returning as it looks to improve on last year’s record of 7-15-1 overall.

The Packers will turn to Austin grad Jason Merritt to lead the way this season and he likes what he has seen from his squad so far.

“Practice has gone well and the kids have worked hard. I think we’re progressing the way we’d hoped to,” Merritt said. “Our top two lines are going to be very competitive we think. We have some seniors and juniors with plenty of varsity experience from last year and our defense will be solid.”

Austin has a strong group of seniors and juniors and it also has a few sophomores that can contribute as well. Austin senior Isaac

Schedule/Home games in bold

Austin’s Kory Potach struggles against the boards with Rochester Mayo’s Ryan Alcott (5) last season at Riverside Arena. Herald file photo

Dec. 1...................................vs. Albert Lea, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 3........................................vs. La Crescent, noon Dec. 8....................................vs. Northfield, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 13.....................at LeSueur-Henderson, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 15..........................................at Owatonna, 7 p.m.

Dec. 20....................................vs. Faribault, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 22..................vs. Rochester Century, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 28.............................at Eveleth Tournament, TBA Dec. 29.............................at Eveleth Tournament, TBA Jan. 5..................................at Mankato West, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 7..................................................at Winona, 2 p.m.

Jan. 12............................vs. Mankato East, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 19..................................vs. Red Wing, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 21..............................................at Faribault, 7 p.m.

Jan. 26.......................vs. Rochester Mayo, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 28............................................at Albert Lea, 5 p.m.

Jan. 31.................................at Mankato East, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 2........................................vs. Winona, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 7...............................................vs. Simley, 7 p.m.

Feb. 9.............................vs. Mankato West, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 11..............................................at Red Wing, noon Feb. 14.............................at Rochester Lourdes, 7 p.m.

Feb. 16........vs. Rochester John Marshall, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 18........................at Rochester Century, 7:15 p.m.

Arnold is one of the top returning scorers for the Packers and he said the key to success will be a strong work ethic this season.

“The practices have all been uptempo and fast. We don’t have a ton of size, but we have a lot of speed and skill,” Arnold said. “We just have to work hard in practice. Being a smaller team without a ton of depth, we need to be well conditioned and have the stamina to play two lines when we have to.”

Austin senior Kory Potach is hoping the

Packers have a shot at finishing .500 this year. He said the team has worked well together so far.

“I think everyone’s working together and hopefully it’ll keep clicking,” Potach said.

“We need to work hard, communicate and stay positive this year.”

Merritt said the team’s unity will be one of its biggest strengths this season.

“They all want to fight for each other and they all want to compete,” he said. “They’re all in for the same cause.”

Packers to fall back on a young team Austin to show off a new style of play The Austin girls hockey team will have a much different look this season as it looks to grow throughout the year.

The Packers, who went 15-12 overall last season, graduated its top two scorers — Chloe Summerfield and Madison Ovebry — and its goalie — Mara Overby.

The Packers have a total of 12 players for this season and six of them are sophomores as they’ll look to grow throughout the year.

“We’re trying to find what works for us,” Austin head coach Brett Vesel said. “We’re not the same team as we were the last two or three years and we’ll play the game differently.”

Austin will look for junior Myia Hoium, sophomore Lily Holtz, and freshman Jordyn McCormack to step up on offense this winter. Sophomore Faith Sayles will be asked to step up at goalie.

“We’ll have to gel together and once you get that and start putting the puck in the net, who knows where we could be,” Vesel said.

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

Schedule/Home games in bold Nov. 17.................................Austin 4, Mankato West 2 Nov. 22......................................Red Wing 4, Austin 0 Nov. 25..................................Prairie Center 7, Austin 1 Nov. 29..........................Rochester Mayo 4, Austin 1 Dec. 1..............at Rochester John Marshall, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 6....................vs. Rochester Century, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 8........................................at Northfield, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 15................................vs. Owatonna, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 22............................................at Faribault, 7 p.m.

Dec. 27...............................Austin Tournament, TBA Dec. 28...............................Austin Tournament, TBA Dec. 29...............................Austin Tournament, TBA Jan. 3............................................at Owatonna, 7 p.m.

Jan. 5...................................vs. Albert Lea, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 7.............................................vs. Winona, 1 p.m.

Jan. 12...............................at Mankato East, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 14...............................vs. Mankato West, 1 p.m.

Jan. 19......................................at Red Wing, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 21.........................................vs. Faribault, 1 p.m.

Jan. 26...........................at Rochester Mayo, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 28..........................................at Albert Lea, 1 p.m.

Jan. 31...........................vs. Mankato East, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 2...........................................at Winona, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 4..........................................at Hutchinson, 3 p.m.

Austin’s Myia Hoium reaches for the puck during the second period against Rochester Mayo last year at Riverside Arena. Herald file photo AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Packer wrestling leaning on experience The Austin wrestling team has a big group of seniors and its hoping that experience will boost the squad as it looks to have a strong season.

The Packers have a total of 35 wrestlers and the team has eight seniors. Austin head coach Jer Osgood said the team is looking to stay competitive within the conference this year.

“We’ll have a lot of senior leadership this year and they have a lot of experience,” Osgood said. “They have high expectations for themselves and hopefully we’ll be able to compete with the majority of the teams in the Big Nine.”

Austin senior Jayden Erie missed most of last season with an injury and he’s pumped to be back on the mat this winter. He watched the Packers finish strong last season and he’s hoping the team can pick up where it left off.

“We improved a lot last year and it should be a good year this year. We’re ready to go,” Erie said.

Austin junior Phillip Zynda was one win from advancing to the state meet last season and he said loss has driven him to work hard toward this season.

Schedule/Home matches in bold Dec. 8......................................at Mankato East, 7 p.m.

Dec. 15.............................................at Faribault, 7 p.m.

Dec. 17.....................at Fillmore Central Invite, 10 a.m.

Jan. 5...............vs. Rochester John Marshall, 7 p.m.

Jan. 12...........................................at Owatonna, 5 p.m.

Jan. 14....................at Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 10 a.m.

Jan. 19.............................at Rochester Century, 7 p.m.

Jan. 21...................................at Champlin Park, 9 a.m.

Jan. 26.........vs. Northfield, Rochester Mayo, 5 p.m.

Jan. 28....................at South Saint Paul Invite, 10 a.m.

Feb. 2.........................................vs. Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Feb. 9......................................at Mankato West, 7 p.m.

Austin’s Phillip Zynda ties to get Rochester Century’s Boyd White on his back during their 160 pound match last season. Herald file photo “[Geting to state] was a goal, considering I was so close last year. There’s a lot riding on this year,” Zynda said.

Austin junior Aiden Wilson is also looking to get over the hump. Wilson has 79 career wins, but he’s still looking to get to state for

the first time.

“We’re pretty optimistic going into this year. I’m looking forward to this season and I’m ready for it,” Wilson said.

Austin senior Jackson Hample has plenty of varsity experience and he’s hoping the Pack-

ers can make a strong showing this year.

“I’m hoping we can send a few guys to state and we have high hopes with our returning wrestlers,” Hample said.

The key for Austin, which returns much of its lineup from last season, will be to wrestle with intensity on a nightly basis. Austin senior Corey Waller said the team needs to embrace coming out fast on meet nights.

“All of the younger guys need to learn how to come out hard,” Waller said. “A lot of guys towards the end of the year last year that you have to come out hard right away will set the tone in the match.”

Austin grad taking reins of the boys swim program The Austin boys swimming and diving team will turn to a new head coach as it looks to keep up the success its had in the past few years.

Michelle Swank, an Austin grad who has been an assistant coach for the past eight years, is the new Packer head coach.

“I am excited to coach this group of young men and continue to be a part of such a well-respected program,” Swank said. “I expect this season to continue with this reputation of prepared, disciplined, aggressive and positive student athletes. I know that boys feel the same way.”

The Packers will look to swimmers Isaac Christopherson, Mitchell Mayer, Ethan Thompson Kaleb Blaser and diver Riley Norton to lead the way in the pool. Christopherson, Mayer and Blaser all have state meet experience and the Packers are hoping to get some more state experience this season.

“Every year the boys come with the mindset to earn a trip to the state meet,” Swank said.

“We have a history of performing well both at the section and state meets. Overall, any drop AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Schedule/Home meets in bold Dec. 8........................................vs. Albert Lea, 6 p.m.

Dec. 13..........................at Rochester Mayo, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 17........................................at Albert Lea, 10 a.m.

Dec. 20...................................at Mankato West, 6 p.m.

Jan. 5...............vs. Rochester John Marshall, 6 p.m.

Jan. 7........................................Austin Invite, 10 a.m.

Jan. 10.............................................at Faribault, 6 p.m.

Jan. 19...........................................at Red Wing, 6 p.m.

Jan. 26...........................................vs. Winona, 6 p.m.

Feb. 2..............................vs. Rochester Mayo, 6 p.m.

Feb. 10....at Big Nine Diving Meet in Northfield, 5 p.m.

Feb. 11.............................at Big Nine Swimming Meet in Rochester, 1 p.m.

in time is a success that we will celebrate.”

The Packers are a very self-motivated team, which should lead to continued success as the season goes on.

“They want to be the best they can be, they are willing to try anything once and give it their all when asked,” Swank said. “They also don’t hold onto poor performances; each time they step onto the block or the diving board it is a new event.”

Austin’s Isaac Christopherson swims in the fourth heat of the 200 yard freestyle during the Austin Packer Invitational last season at Bud Higgins Pool. Herald file photo FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

9

Rebels on the march in 2016-17 The Sothland boys basketball team graduated six players, but is has quite a few players that are ready to chip in this season as it looks to improve on last year’s record of 11-13 overall.

Southland will look to Chris Webber, Thomas Bottema, Jared Landherr and Lee Wilson to lead the way on the court this season.

“We are looking to improve from last year,” Southland head coach Matt Webber said. “We almost made it to the subsection finals and we should now know what it will take to get there.”

The Rebels will also look for Colton Mandt, Tyler Hanson and Ty Russell to step up.

Schedule/Home games in bold Dec. 6.......................................at Kingsland, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 8.............................vs. Saint Charles, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 13.............................at Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 19.................................at Dover-Eyota, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 23.........vs. Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 3........................................at Caledonia, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 7..........................................vs. Goodhue, 3 p.m.

Jan. 10..............................vs. La Crescent, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 13...............................at Winona Cotter, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 17.......................vs. Fillmore Central, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 20........................at Rushford-Peterson, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 24.......................vs. Lewiston-Altura, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 27....................................vs. Chatfield, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 28...............................vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 1:30 p.m.

Jan. 31.........................at Wabasha-Kellogg, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 2...................................vs. Kingsland, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 7..................................at Saint Charles, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 13...........................at Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 14.............................vs. Dover-Eyota, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 17................at Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 21.......................................at Chatfield, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 24....................vs. Wabasha-Kellogg, 7:30 p.m.

10

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

Southland’s Chris Webber takes the ball on the drive against Grand Meadow’s Wes Ojulu in the second half of their Section 1A West semifinal matchup last year at Mayo Civic Center in Rochester. Herald file photo

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Southland pushing to be competitive in 2017 The Southland girls basketball team is hoping to push for a competitive season as it prepares for the year.

The Rebels, who went 8-15 last season, will look to Kaysie Allen, Gabby Smith, Allison Bottema and McKendry Kennedy to step up as leaders.

According to Southland head coach Dean Bendtsen, Allen stepped up as a defender and rebounder last season and she’s hoping to have a bigger impact this season, Smith was just starting to emerge last season when she had a knee injury, Bottema is a solid perimeter defender and Kennedy will provide a boost on offense.

“McKendry leads by example every time she hits the floor,” Bendtsen said. “I think she can have a big year.

Southland, which graduated eight seniors last year, will also look to Karina Vasquez and Brianna Johnson to step up on the court this season. Bendtsen said he has a better grasp on his team in his second year at the helm.

“We need our defense and rebounding to come along sooner than it did last year. We lost a few games last year that we felt could have gone either way,” he said. “This year, we want to grab wins in those situations. If we can get off to a nice start, we have a chance to finish in the upper half of the TRC West.”

Schedule/Home games in bold Nov. 29.............................Southland 62, Chatfield 48 Dec. 2...........................at Wabasha-Kellogg, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 6...................................vs. Kingsland, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 9..................................at Saint Charles, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 17..........at Rochester Holiday tournament, 4 p.m.

Dec. 19..............................vs. Dover-Eyota, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 20......................vs. Blooming Prairie, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 23................at Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 3....................................vs. Caledonia, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 10...................................at La Crescent, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 13..........................vs. Winona Cotter, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 17.............................at Fillmore Central, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 20...................vs. Rushford-Peterson, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 24.............................at Lewiston-Altura, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 27........................................at Chatfield, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 28.....................................vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 3 p.m.

Jan. 31.....................vs. Wabasha-Kellogg, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 2........................................at Kinsgland, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 7..............................vs. Saint Charles, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 14..................................at Dover-Eyota, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 17...........vs. Plainview-Elgin-Milville, 7:30 p.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Southland’s McKendry Kennedy, right, plays defense against Winona Cotter’s Josie Huelskamp in Adams last season.

Herald file photo

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

11

Hayfield’s Carrie Rutledge drives to the basket off the break against Dover-Eyota’s Ashlee Olson during their Section 1AA semfinal matchup Saturday at Mayo Civic Center. Herald file photo

Hayfield girls basketball ready with firepower The Hayfield girls basketball team returns plenty of firepower this season as it looks to move to higher levels as a program.

The Vikings bring back their top four scorers from last year’s team that went 20-8 overall as it looks to make a move toward the state tournament. The Vikings will lean on juniors Carrie Rutledge, Maggie Streightiff, Kate Kruger and Olivia Matti to pick up the scoring pace and seniors Sophia Waldner and Emily Sprau will provide leadership as well.

“We are looking to compete for a con-

12

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

ference title in the very tough HVL, and we want to try to get back to the Mayo Civic Center and compete for a Section 1AA title,” said Kasey Krekling, who will be a co-head coach with Fred Kindschy this season. “We will be working hard on our team defense as we think that is the key to taking the next step forward as a team.”

Hayfield is looking to go 10 or 11 players deep this season, but it will continue to push hard on the defensive end to stay competitive.

Schedule/Home games in bold Nov. 26.............Plainview-Elgin-Millville 60, Hayfield 37 Dec. 6..................................vs. Pine Island, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 9..........................................at Lake City, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 13.......................................at Goodhue, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 17...vs. Southland in Mayo Civic Center, 4 p.m.

Dec. 20..........................................vs. Triton, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 22........................................at Chatfield, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 28......................................Hayfield Invite, 6 p.m.

Dec. 29......................................Hayfield Invite, 6 p.m.

Jan. 3.....................................at Dover-Eyota, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 6.........................at Zumbrota-Mazeppa, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 7....................vs. New Richland-HEG, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 14......................................Hayfield Invite, 1 p.m.

Jan. 17..................vs. Rochester Lourdes, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 20................................vs. Stewartville, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24........................at Kasson-Mantorville, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 27..............................................at Byron, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 31............................at Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 3......................................vs. Goodhue, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 7....................vs. Zumbrota-Mazeppa, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 10..............................................at Triton, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 11.....................at Lyle-Pacelli in Pacelli, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 14.....................at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 16............................vs. Cannon Falls, 7:15 p.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Vikings looking to build on last year The Hayfield boys basketball team is looking to show improvement throughout the season as it must replace four starters from last year’s team that went 17-10 overall.

The Vikings will look to co-captains Trace Tebay, who is in his third year as a starter, and Drew Olive, who was Hayfield’s sixth man last season.

Hayfield will also look for Adam Fjerstad, Dominic Dublin, Max Olive and Jake Olive to chip in.

“Our strength will be in guard play and perimeter shooting,” said Hayfield head coach Chris Pack, who is in his 17th year at the helm.

“Our weaknesses will be post defense and rebounding.”

Last season, Hayfield started off 0-5 before it won 17 of its last 21 games. This season the Vikings start with another tough spurt of games as they play St. Charles, Maple Rivera and Goodhue to start the season.

“We want to compete for the Blue Division title in the HVL and host a first round playoff game,” Pack said. “We want to be playing our best basketball come tournament time.”

Schedule/Home games in bold Dec. 2 ................................vs. St. Charles, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 3.........................................at Maple River, 5 p.m.

Dec. 9....................................vs. Goodhue, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 13.........................vs. Winona Cotter, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 16....................at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 17...............vs. Chatfield, Mayo CC, 10:45 a.m.

Dec. 20............................................at Triton, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 22................................at Cannon Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 28.....................................Hayfield Invite, 6 p.m.

Dec. 29.....................................Hayfield Invite, 6 p.m.

Jan. 3................................vs. Dover-Eyota, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 6....................vs. Zumbrota-Mazeppa, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 7.........................vs. New Richland-HEG, 6 p.m.

Jan. 13............................vs. Cannon Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 17.......................at Rochester Lourdes, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 20....................................at Stewartville, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24.................vs. Kasson-Mantorville, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 27.........................................vs. Byron, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 31.....................vs. Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 3.........................................at Goodhue, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 7........................at Zumbrota-Mazeppa, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 10.........................................vs. Triton, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 18..........vs. Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 21...................................at Pine Island, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 24..................................vs. Lake City, 7:15 p.m.

Hayfield’s Trace Tebay battles for a loose ball in Mayo Civic Center last season.

Herald file photo

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AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

13

Seniors leading the way for Larks The Grand Meadow boys basketball team is coming off one of its best seasons in school history, but it is looking to reload as it graduated six seniors from last year’s team that went 22-6 overall and played in the Section 1A West title game.

GM will have to replace its top three scorers from last year as it looks to the senior trio of Mark Cotton, Wes Ojulu “Besides our three and Connor seniors we will be a King to lead the way. The very young team.” rest of GM’s team will gain — Bob Burmester Head coach experience as the season goes along.

“Besides the three seniors we will be a very young team,” GM head coach Bob Burmester said. “Those are the only three that come back with varsity experience. Also we will have a late start to the season and it will be important for our boys to stay healthy.”

Burmester, who is in his fifth year as GM head coach, said that last year’s success helped raise the bar for the Superlarks, who are now hoping stay competitive.

“Every year we want to win our side of the SEC and challenge Spring Grove for the overall SEC championship which is very tough to do.

We also want to make it back to Rochester,” Burmester said. “We will be young, but we had a great summer and I’m excited to see how our young guys develop.”

Schedule/Home games in bold Dec. 1 ............................... vs. Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 9 ...........................at Fillmore Central, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 13.............................. vs. Southland, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 15 .............. vs. Schaeffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 16 .........................vs. Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 20 .................. vs. LeRoy-Ostrander, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 28 ...................... Grand Meadow Invite, 6 p.m.

Dec. 29...................... Grand Meadow Invite, 6 p.m.

Jan. 5 .......................at Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 6 ...................... at Lyle-Pacelli in Lyle, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 10 ................................. vs. Houston, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 12 ............................at Mabel-Canton, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 13 ...............................vs. Randolph, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 17 ................................. at Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 19 ............................vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24 ................... at Schaeffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 27 ........................... vs. Hope Lutheran, 6 p.m.

Jan. 31 ...at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 2 .........................at LeRoy-Ostrander, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 7 ...............................vs. Mabel-Canton, 6 p.m.

Feb. 10 .....................................at Houston, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 14 .............................at Blooming Prairie, 7 p.m.

Feb. 16 ................vs. Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 20 .............................at Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 21 .............................. vs. Kingsland, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 24 ...................................at Randolph, 7:15 p.m.

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

Grand Meadow’s Connor King lofts a shot against Southland in the Section 1A West Division Tournament last year. Herald file photo AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Grand Meadow ready to grow, step forward Larks return 7 “We are looking letterwinners to be competiDespite having a young squad, the Grand Meadow girls basketball team is hoping to build on some big success it had last season.

The Superlarks graduated three players from last year’s team that went 17-11 overall and played in the Section 1A West semifinals, but it has seven letter winners returning. GM will look to senior Hattie Voigt, junior Allie Sloan to lead the

tive in the SEC, stay healthy, have fun, and be there at the end ...”

— Ryan Queensland Head coach

way and it will also get a huge boost from a strong group of underclassmen, which includes Jordyn Glynn, Skylar Cotten, Riley Queensland, Isabelle Olson, Kaitlyn Hilton and Masie Voigt.

“We are looking to be competitive in the SEC, stay healthy, have fun, and be there at the end to make a strong playoff push to hopefully make it back to the Civic Center,” said GM head coach Ryan Queensland, who is his third year as head coach. “Our speed and experience playing together are our main strengths.”

Grand Meadow’s Jordyn Glynn raches past Goodhue’s Michelle Hadler for a loose ball in Mayo Civic Center last season. Herald file photo

Schedule/Home games in bold Nov. 25......Zumbrota-Mazappe 65, Grand Meadow 49 Nov. 26..................Dover-Eyota 56, Grand Meadow 52 Nov. 29...................Kingsland 59, Grand Meadow 39 Dec. 2........................................at Randolph, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 6...................................vs. Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 8..............................vs. Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 9..........................vs. Lewiston-Altura, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 16...............................at LeRoy-Ostrander, 7 p.m.

Dec. 19...............................at Mabel-Canton, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 3.........................at Schaeffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 6.......................................at Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 10.................................at Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 12................................vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Jan. 16......................vs. Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 17...................................vs. Randolph, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 20.........................at Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24.........................................at Houston, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 26....................vs. Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 27.........................vs. Hope Lutheran, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 31...........................vs. LeRoy-Ostrander, 7 p.m.

Feb. 2..................................at Alden-Conger, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 6............................vs. Winona Cotter, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 7.............................vs. Mabel-Canton, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 10..................vs. Schaeffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 14.............................at Fillmore Central, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 17....................at Lyle-Pacelli in Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

15

GMLOS looking to place several grapplers in state The Grand Meadow-LeRoy-Ostrander-Southland wrestling team is hoping to make a big push to get multiple wrestlers to the Class A state meet as it has two wrestlers with state meet experience back in the lineup.

Brenn Olson, who took fifth at 132 pounds in Class AA last season, is back for the Bulldogs, and Blake Benson, who competed in state as a sophomore, but missed his junior season with an injury, is back in the lineup. Olson, Benson and Christophor Bain are all ranked in the top two of their weight class and Isaac

Schedule/Home meets in bold Dec. 3.................at Springfield Tournament, 10 a.m.

Dec. 9....................................at Caledonia, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 13................vs. FCLMC in Adams, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 17...........................at Fillmore Central, 10 a.m.

Dec. 20.....................at Wabasha-Kellogg, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 6.....vs. La Crescent in Kingsland, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 12.....................................at Chatfield, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 14.....................................at Stewartville, 8 a.m.

Jan. 20...........vs. LARP in Grand Meadow, 6 p.m.

Jan. 21....................at Hayfield Tournament, 10 a.m.

Jan. 26..vs. St. Charles in LeRoy-Ostr., 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 28.......................at Wisconsin Dells Invite, TBA Feb. 3................................at Dover-Eyota, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 9...vs. Plain.-Elgin-Mill in G. Meadow, 6 p.m.

Eissinger will step up as a leader as well.

“Obviously every team wants to win and go to state,” said GMLOS head coach Randy Smith, who is in his third year at the helm. “We would like to do

this as well, however our focus is more on each wrestlers goals for the season.

If we can achieve the student athletes goals then the winning will naturally happen. I don’t think it is an unrealistic

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

goal to say we have the potential to get five or seven individuals and the team to state.”

The Bulldogs have 15 wrestlers back with varsity experience and they also have some young wrestlers who have competed and placed in the state level at the NYWA state meet.

The Bulldogs have been able to spread those wrestlers out into different weight classes.

“The greatest strength we have is our athletes love wrestling and they are determined to do good,” Smith said.

CHASING STATE

It’s been two years since the Austin boys basketball team completed its run of playing in three state tournaments and the Packers are hoping to get back on the big stage again this year.

Austin has a deep squad with plenty of experience and it’s looking to find the right amount of chemistry and defense to trigger the team to a run.

EYE ON THE STAND

The Austin Packer dance team has competed in 14 straight state meets and it is hoping to reach new heights as a program this year.

The Packers are looking to get earn a spot on the medal stand this season, which would mean they would have to earn a top three finish.

SHOOTING FOR 6

The Austin gymnastics team has competed in the last five Class A state meets and it’s hoping to push that number up to five this season.

The Packers return Maddie Mullenbach, who won the Class A all-around meet last season, and the team has much of the rest of its squad from last year back as well. The Packers will look to first year head coach Matt Schmit to lead the way.

RELOADING, NOT REBUILDING

Although the Lyle-Pacelli girls basketball team graduated to of its top scorers in program history in Sarah Holtz and Courtney Walter, the Athletics aren’t about to cash this season.

LP is looking for Brooke Walter and Kristie Fett to step up and lead the way this season.

Oman Oman looks for an outlet during the first half against Northfield in the Section 1AAA semifinals last year.

BELOW: Bethany Strouf looks pass against Goodhue in the Section 1A West Division title game last year.

MAKING HAY

The Hayfield girls basketball team brings back its top scorers from a team that won 20 games last season and it’s hoping that experience an lead to a solid season on the court this year.

If the Vikings can crank up their defense, they have a chance to take it all the way to the state tournament.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

A team not to overlook

The Lyle-Pacelli girls basketball team will have to replace two of its biggest scorers in program history, but the Athletics are still expecting to be a squad to be reckoned with this season.

LP graduated Sarah Holtz, a 2,000 point scorer, and Courtney Walter, a 1,000 point scorer, and now the baton will be passed to junior Brooke Walter, a 1,000 point scorer who has started at point guard since she was an eighth grader and Kristie Fett, a 6-foot, 5-inch post player, who has drawn some Division I interest. LP will also lean on senior Bethany Strouf, who is “We want to a six-year let- compete for a er winner and section and state a three-year championship.” starter.

LP has won — Justin Morris the last three Head coach SEC titles and it hasn’t lost a conference game since January of 2013.

“We had a great summer playing in the Sweet 16 and Elite 8 tournaments,” LP head coach Justin Morris said. “Despite losing Courtney and Sarah we still expect to be one of the best team’s in Class A. Brooke Walter is expected to take a large jump and Bethany Strouf should have a big year.”

LP will also get an athletic boost up front from Olivia Christianson. Morris is hoping his squad can get back to where it was two years ago, when it played in the Class A state semifinals.

“We expect big things. We want to compete for a section and state championship,” he said.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Lyle-Pacelli’s Brooke Walter drives to the hoop during the Section 1A West Division title game last season. Herald file photo

Schedule/Home games in bold Dec. 2...vs. Schaeffer Academy in Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 3......................................at Mabel-Canton, 5 p.m.

Dec. 9..........vs. Hope Lutheran in Pacelli, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 10.......................................at Goodhue, 5:45 p.m.

Dec. 13............................vs. Randolph in Lyle, 6 p.m.

Dec. 15............................at Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 16.........................at Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 22.at Cedar Mountain-Comfrey Tournament, TBA Dec. 23.at Cedar Mountain-Comfrey Tournament, TBA

Jan. 3.......vs. LeRoy-Ostrander in Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 6...........................................at Houston, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 12..............................at Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 14.....................................at Hayfield Invite, 1 p.m.

Jan. 17........................at Schaeffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 20.......................................at Randolph, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24.vs. Plain.-Elgin-Millville in Pacelli, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 26............vs. Spring Grove in Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 28......................................at Southland, 3:30 p.m.

Jan. 31...vs. Glenville-Emmons in Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 3.......................................at Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 4.vs. Maranatha Christian Acad. in Lyle, 7 p.m.

Feb. 9.............................at LeRoy-Ostrander, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 11....................vs. Hayfield in Pacelli, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 13.......vs. Fillmore Central in Pacelli, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 14........at Granada-Huntely-East Chain, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 17.........................vs. Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

17

Gaining experience LP replacing 4 starters, main sources of scoring The Lyle-Pacelli boys basketball team will have to replace four starters who all played big roles on last year’s team that went 15-11 overall.

The Athletics do have six players back with varsity experience as it will turn to seniors Brady Lester, Kamis Kuku and Nathan Drees, juniors Trinity Anderson and Patrick Murphy, and eighth grader Jed Nelson to step up.

“We lost a lot of experience and a very large percentage of our scoring graduated, so this will be a year, we’ll have a bit of rebuilding,” LP head coach Scott Koenigs said.

“We hope to improve a lot over the course of the season and be very competitive as the season progresses.”

LP doesn’t have a lot of team size, but it has some depth as the Athletics are hoping to use 10 to 12 players.

Lyle-Pacelli’s Brady Lester heads in for a layup in the first half against Houston last year in Lyle.

Herald file photo

Schedule/Home games in bold Dec. 3.......................................at Mabel-Canton, 3 p.m.

Dec. 9...............vs. Hope Lutheran in Pacelli, 6 p.m.

Dec. 10.......................................at Goodhue, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 13......................vs. Randolph in Lyle, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 15..........................at LeRoy-Ostrander, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 17...............................................vs. West Central in Decorah, Iowa, 3:30 p.m.

Dec. 20.......vs. Glenville-Emmons in Lyle, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 3.........................................at Christian Life, 7 p.m.

Jan. 6...............vs. Grand Meadow in Lyle, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 13........................at Schaeffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 19..............................at Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 20.......................................at Randolph, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24.........vs. LeRoy-Ostrander in Lyle, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 27..................................at Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 28............................................at Southland, 1 p.m.

Jan. 30...............vs. Alden-Conger in Lyle, 7:30 p.m.

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

Feb. 2...........................at Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 4..................vs. Christian Life in Lyle, 5:30 p.m.

Feb. 7......................vs. Lanesboro in Lyle, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 9...............................at Fillmore Central, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 13.........................vs. Houston in Lyle, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 16..........vs. Blooming Prairie in Lyle, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 17...............vs. Mabel-Canton in Lyle, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 21........................vs. Medford in Lyle, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 24......vs. Schaeffer Academy in Lyle, 7:15 p.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

BP boys heading into 2017 with balance 5 return tobolster Awesome Blossoms The Blooming Prairie boys basketball team will look to five returning players from last year’s team that went 10-17 overall as it looks to make improvements this season.

BP will look to Nick Thompson, Max Romeo, Ben Smith, Wyatt Grundmeier and Ben Smith to step up as returning players and Seth Bedenbaugh, who moved to BP over the summer from Michigan, is also set to step up.

“We have a good blend of leadership, experience and young talented players this year,” BP head coach Nate Piller, who is in his

BP girls building a system The Blooming Prairie girls basketball team brings back a good crop of players from last year’s team that went 15-11 overall last season as it looks to continue playing as a unit.

The Awesome Blossoms will return post players Marissa Larson and Sam Wurst, and it will look for Kylie Forystek, Jasmine Anderson, McKenna Hein and Aryen Ingvalson will all chip in in the backcourt.

BP is also hoping to get a boost from freshmen Julia Worke and Maya Lembke.

“We are focusing on building a cohesive system that will allow all of our girls to contribute in many ways,” BP head coach John Bruns said. “We do not have huge numbers this year, but the girls we do have are committed to getting better every day.”

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Schedule/Home games in bold

Maxwell Romeo handles the ball for Blooming Prairie last year. Herald file photo

Dec. 2..........................................at Triton Invite, 8 p.m.

Dec. 3..........................................at Triton Invite, 1 p.m.

Dec. 6.........................................at Goodhue, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 9..........................................at Medford, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 13.....................at United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 16.............................vs. Faribault BA, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 20.......vs. Jane.-Waldorf-Pemberton, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 22........................vs. Mankato Loyola, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 6.....................................at Maple River, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 10.......................at New Richland-HEG, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 13................vs. Kenyon-Wanamingo, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 14............................vs. Alden-Conger, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 19......................................at Saint Clair, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 20.......at Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 21................................at Tri City United, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 24.....................................vs. Medford, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 27...............vs. United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 31..........................................at Hayfield, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 3........at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 7.................................vs. Maple River, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 10..................vs. New Richland-HEG, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 13..................................vs. Southland, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 14.........................vs. Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 16.........................at Lyle-Pacelli in Lyle, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 24......vs. Water.-Elysian-Morristown, 7:15 p.m.

second year at the helm, said. “This year the team will be better equipped to define the roles for individuals and give them a vision of

what we expect. I believe that being able to focus on these roles will be a huge factor for us to play to our strengths.”

Marissa Larson handles the ball for Blooming Prairie against Lyle-Pacelli in Mayo Civic Center last season. Herald file photo

Schedule/Home games in bold Nov. 29...........................Blooming Prairie 64, Triton 52 Dec. 2........at Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 6.....................................vs. Goodhue, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 9.......................................vs. Medford, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 13...............vs. United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 15...............................vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 16......at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 20......................................at Southland, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 5.....................................vs. Randolph, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 7........vs. Cleveland in Target Center, 2:15 p.m.

Jan. 10..................vs. New Richland-HEG, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 13......................at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 14.................................vs. Alden-Conger, 5 p.m.

Jan. 16..............................at Grand Meadow, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 20......vs. Water.-Elysian-Morristown, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 21....................................at Tri City United, 5 p.m.

Jan. 24.........................................at Medford, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 27....................at United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 31.....................................vs. Hayfield, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 3..vs. Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 7....................................at Maple River, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 10.......................at New Richland-HEG, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 14......at Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 17.......................vs. Mankato Loyola, 7:15 p.m.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

19

Neighbors unite to form Wesfield WR HAYFIELD — With numbers on the decline over the past few years, the Hayfield and Blooming Prairie wrestling teams decided they would be better off competing together this season than losing matches due to forfeits apart.

Hayfield and BP will compete together this season as the Westfield Razorbacks, a name that was voted on by both schools.

The Razorbacks will split their matches and practice in Hayfield and BP and they’ll still compete as a Class A team. The team will be coached by Chad Gimbel of BP and Brad Heydt of Hayfield.

“It’s been in the works for awhile,” Gimbel said. “Last year both teams realized we had some pretty good wrestlers but we weren’t winning a lot of matches because we had too many forfeits.”

The Razorbacks now have a deep lineup and they also have enough wrestlers in practice to provide healthy competition.

Trey Chatman said having that depth will be crucial to making the team competitive.

“Competition. I think that’s what we need,” Chatman said. “Knowing that you don’t have a spot and that you have to work for that spot is a big factor in getting better.”

The Razorbacks have a pair of wrestlers who have competed in the state meet before in Jackson Hedyt and Ethan Arett. Jackson, who is from Hayfield, said the goal is to get even more wrestlers to state this year and he’s excited to mix it up with wrestlers from BP. “We’ve worked out with them before and practiced with them,” Jackson said. “It’s been awesome [since the co-op]. All of the guys are looking for people to wrestle with in practice.”

With two former head coaches — Gimbel and Brad Heydt — leading the way, the Razorbacks now have plenty of leadership.

“Our coaches have different styles, but we like it,” Arett said.

The Razorbacks will open their season in Redwood-River Valley 10 a.m. Dec. 3 and they will host their first home meet in Hayfield Dec. 22. The team’s first home meet in BP is Jan. 19.

Mark is hoping that Westfield is headed toward a strong season.

“We’re looking forward to raising that level of being competitive as a team,” he said. “The kids are really excited about it and they think they have a chance to be competitive every night.”

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

Hayfield’s Jackson Heydt goes against Sutton Schultz in practice in Hayfield. Hayfield and Blooming Prairie combined wrestling programs this season to form the Westfield Razorbacks. Photos by Rocky Hulne/sports@austindailyherald.com

Schedule/Home meets in bold

The Westfield Razorbacks practice in Hayfield.

Dec. 3.........................................at Springfield, 10 a.m.

Dec. 6.........................................at Maple River, 5 p.m.

Dec. 8..........................at United South Central, 7 p.m.

Dec. 15.................................................at Byron, 7 p.m.

Dec. 17.................................at Fillmore Central, 9 a.m.

Dec. 22................vs. PEM, Triton in Hayfield, 5 p.m.

Jan. 5..............................................at Lake City, 5 p.m.

Jan. 12..............................................at Medford, 5 p.m.

Jan. 14...........................................at Medford, 10 a.m.

Jan. 17................................at St. Ansgar, Iowa, 6 p.m.

Jan. 19..............................vs. Westfield, Maple River in Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m.

Jan. 21.................................Invite in Hayfield, 9 a.m.

Jan. 26...vs. Zumbrota-Mazeppa in Hayfield, 7 p.m.

Jan. 28..........................................at Lake City, 10 a.m.

Feb. 2.....................................vs. New Richland-HEG in Blooming Prairie, 7 p.m.

Feb. 9......vs. WEM/JWP in Blooming Prairie, 7 p.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Cardinals raising expectations, intensity The LeRoy-Ostrander boys basketball team is ready to make a youth movement as it hopes to make a big splash this season.

The Cardinals, who have just one senior on the roster, will return four of their five starters and 14 of their 15 players from last season, when they finished 5-21 overall. LO head coach Trevor Carrier said he wants his team to — Trevor Carrier crank up the Coach tempo and lock down on defense.

“Although LeRoy-Ostrander boys basketball hasn’t been over .500 in 10 years, we expect to challenge for the Southeast West Conference Title,” Carrier, who is in his second year at the helm, said. “Expecations are high and the players are excited to get back to work.”

LO has plenty of size as four of its starters are over six-feet tall. Leading the way

Schedule/Home games in bold

“Expectations are high and the players are excited to get back to work.”

LeRoy-Ostrander’s Trey Hungerholt drives past Grand Meadow’s Wes Ojulu in LeRoy last season. Herald file photo will be 6-2 point guard Trey Hungerholt, a sophomore who saw big playing time last season.

“Nobody puts more time into the game than Trey, whether it’s in the gym or weight

room. He is the hardest worker that I have ever coached and is constantly the last player to leave,” Carrier said. “I expect him to take his overall game to a whole new level.”

LO will also look to Sean Lohuis, Zach Han-

Dec. 9..........................................at Houston, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 13............................at Fillmore Central, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 15...............................vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 17.........vs. Postville in Decorah, Iowa, 11 a.m.

Dec. 20.............................at Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 22................................vs. Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 28........................at Grand Meadow Invite, 6 p.m.

Dec. 29........................at Grand Meadow Invite, 6 p.m.

Jan. 5....................vs. Schaeffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 6.................................vs. Hope Lutheran, 6 p.m.

Jan. 10............................vs. Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 13.........................at Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 14......................at Christian Life Academy, 6 p.m.

Jan. 16....................................vs. Houston, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 19..................................vs. Randolph, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24........................at Lyle-Pacelli in Lyle, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 27...............................at Mabel-Canton, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 2...........................vs. Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 3...................................vs. Kingsland, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 7.................................at Winona Cotter, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 10...........................vs. Alden-Conger, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 13...........................vs. Mabel-Canton, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 16......................at Schaeffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 17......................................at Randolph, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 20.....................................at Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 24...................vs. Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

son and Seth Royston to step up as well.

“I look for every player from starters to the bench to step and take this program to new heights,” Carrier said.

State Tournament Headquarters Boys Basketball

Dance

Target Center, University of Minnesota (Williams Arena), Concordia University.

Target Center

March 22-25

Girls Basketball March 14-18

Target Center, University of Minnesota (Williams Arena and Mariucci Arena), Concordia University.

Boys Hockey March 8-11

Xcel Energy Center, University of Minnesota (Mariucci Arena)

Girls Hockey Feb. 22-25

Xcel Energy Center, University of Minnesota (Ridder Arena)

Wrestling March 2-4

Xcel Energy Center AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Feb. 17-18

Gymnastics Feb. 24-25

University of Minnesota (Sports Pavilion)

Swimming and Diving March 2-4

University of Minnesota (Aquatics Center)

For more head to the Minnesota State High School League’s website at www.mshsl.org FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

21

Young Cardinals team hitting the courts LeRoy-Ostrander putting three sophomores in starting lineup

Schedule/Home games in bold

The LeRoy-Ostrander girls basketball team will have three sophomores in the starting lineup as it looks to gain experience and improve throughout the season.

The Cardinals, who went 8-18 overall last season, return five players from last season.

Sophomore Haley Hungerholt, who led the Cardinals in scoring last season, will look to step up as a leader, and Kate Helgeson and Lauren Helgeson will also be asked to provide a lift.

“We are looking to improve every game and compete in all of our games,” said LO head coach Aaron Hungerholt, who is in his eighth year on the job.

LO will have an advantage in team speed and athleticism, but it will lack in size and depth.

Nov. 29.............Spring Grove 66, LeRoy-Ostrander 28 Dec. 1.....................................at Pine Island, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 5......................................at Alden-Conger, 6 p.m.

Dec. 6.................................vs. Mabel-Canton, 7 p.m.

Dec. 8..................................vs. Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 13......................at Schaeffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 16.............................vs. Grand Meadow, 7 p.m.

Dec. 17....vs. S. Winneshiek in Luther College, 2 p.m.

Dec. 22.............................at Glenville-Emmons, 7 p.m.

Jan. 3...........................at Lyle-Pacelli in Pacelli, 7 p.m.

Jan. 6...........................vs. Hope Lutheran, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 9................................................at Houston, 7 p.m.

Jan. 12.......................................vs. Randolph, 7 p.m.

Jan. 14......................at Christian Life Academy, 4 p.m.

Jan. 17........................vs. Glenville-Emmons, 7 p.m.

Jan. 20......................vs. Schaeffer Academy, 7 p.m.

Jan. 24..........................................at Lanesboro, 6 p.m.

Jan. 27....................................at Mabel-Canton, 6 p.m.

Jan. 31..................................at Grand Meadow, 7 p.m.

Feb. 3........................................vs. Kingsland, 6 p.m.

Feb. 6........................vs. Rushford-Peterson, 7 p.m.

Feb. 7..............................vs. Fillmore Central, 7 p.m.

Feb. 9......................................vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 7 p.m.

Feb. 14.........................................vs. Houston, 7 p.m.

Feb. 16.................................vs. Spring Grove, 7 p.m.

Feb. 17...........................................at Randolph, 6 p.m.

“We are looking to improve every game and compete in all of our games.”

— Aaron Hungerholt, Head coach LeRoy-Ostrander’s Haley Hungerholt handles the ball against Grand Meadow last season.

Herald file photo

22

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Riverland’s Abdibari Abdikadir fights for a rebound against Gustavus JV in Riverland Gym early this year.

Herald file photo

Riverland men’s and women’s basketball schedules

Men

Nov. 11.........................................RCC 87, Dordt JV 79 Nov. 14..................................RCC 81, Northwestern 79 Nov. 16..........................RCC 83, Crown College JV 61 Nov. 19...................................Gustavus JV 79, RCC 75 Nov. 22............................................NIACC 86, RCC 78 Nov. 29.....................................RCC 95, Bethany JV 71 Dec. 2..................................at Central Lakes, 7:45 p.m.

Dec. 3.........................................at Fond du Lac, 3 p.m.

Dec. 9....................................vs. Vermillion, 7:45 p.m.

Dec. 10................................vs. Mesabi Range, 3 p.m.

Dec. 15...............................vs. Bethany JV, 7:45 p.m.

Jan. 5.....................................vs. Luther JV, 7:45 p.m.

Jan. 6....................................at Gustavus JV, 8:30 p.m.

Jan. 11.............................at Minnesota West, 7:45 p.m.

Jan. 14...................................at Anoka-Ramsey, 3 p.m.

Jan. 18..........................vs. St. Cloud Tech, 7:45 p.m.

Jan. 21..............................................vs. RCTC, 3 p.m.

Jan. 25.....................................at Ridgewater, 7:45 p.m.

Jan. 28.......................................at Fergus Falls, 3 p.m.

Feb. 1..................................at Western Tech, 7:45 p.m.

Feb. 4..............................vs. Minnesota West, 3 p.m.

Feb. 8...........................vs. Anoka-Ramsey, 7:45 p.m.

Feb. 11....................................at St. Cloud Tech, 3 p.m.

Feb. 15............................................at RCTC, 7:45 p.m.

Feb. 18.....................................vs. Ridgewater, 3 p.m.

Feb. 22..............................vs. Fergus Falls, 7:45 p.m.

Feb. 25................................vs. Western Tech., 3 p.m.

Women

Dec. 9....................................vs. Vermillion, 5:45 p.m.

Dec. 10................................vs. Mesabi Range, 1 p.m.

Jan. 5.....................................vs. Luther JV, 5:45 p.m.

Jan. 6....................................at Gustavus JV, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 11.............................at Minnesota West, 5:45 p.m.

Jan. 14...................................at Anoka-Ramsey, 1 p.m.

Jan. 18..........................vs. St. Cloud Tech, 5:45 p.m.

Jan. 21...............................................vs. RCTC, 1 p.m.

Jan. 25.....................................at Ridgewater, 5:45 p.m.

Jan. 28........................................at Fergus Falls, 1 p.m.

Feb. 1..................................at Western Tech, 5:45 p.m.

Feb. 4...............................vs. Minnesota West, 1 p.m.

Feb. 8...........................vs. Anoka-Ramsey, 5:45 p.m.

Feb. 11...................................at St. Cloud Tech, 1 p.m.

Feb. 15............................................at RCTC, 5:45 p.m.

Feb. 18......................vs. Ridgewater College, 1 p.m.

Feb. 22..............................vs. Fergus Falls, 5:45 p.m.

Feb. 25.................................vs. Western Tech, 1 p.m.

Follow sportswriter Rocky Hulne on Twitter @RockyHulneADH

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

23

University of Minnesota Basketball Schedules Men

Nov. 3.........................Gophers 83, Bemidji State 59 Nov. 11........................Gophers 86, UL-Lafayette 74 Nov. 14.........................Gophers 84, UT Arlington 67 Nov. 16.................Gophers 80, Mount St. Mary’s 56 Gavitt Tipoff Nov. 18.............................Gophers 92, St. Johns 86 Nov. 22 .............................Gophers 85, Arkansas 71 Nov. 25..................Gophers 57, Southern Illinois 45 ACC/Big Ten Challenge Nov. 28........................Florida State 75, Gophers 67

Women

Nov. 12.............................Gophers 103, Harvard 87 Nov. 15......................................Gophers 79, VCU 69 Nov. 18.........................Gophers 68, Georgetown 60 Nov. 20....................Gophers 90, Williams Arena 57 Junkanoo Jam Nov. 24................................Georgia 70, Gophers 58 Nov. 25.....................North Carolina 91, Gophers 77 Nov. 30........................Florida State 75, Gophers 61

Dec. 3.................................................vs. Vanderbilt, at Sioux Falls, South Dakota, 7 p.m.

Dec. 9..........................vs. Georgia Southern, 8 p.m.

Dec. 11..........................vs. Northern Illinois, 4 p.m.

Dec. 14................................vs. LIU Brooklyn, 7 p.m.

Dec. 23............................vs. Arkansas State, 6 p.m.

Dec 27.............................vs. Michigan State, 8 p.m.

Jan. 1................................................at Purdue, TBA Jan. 5..................................at Northwestern, 8 p.m.

Jan. 8.................................vs. Ohio State, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 11.............................at Michigan State, 6 p.m.

Jan. 14..................................at Penn State, 11 a.m.

Jan. 21...............................vs. Wisconsin, 3:30 p.m.

Dec. 3............................................vs. Detroit 2 p.m.

Dec. 6...................................at New Mexico, 8 p.m.

Dec. 8............................vs. Army West Point, 8 p.m.

Dec. 11.............................at South Carolina, 2 p.m.

Dec. 14........................................vs. Belmont, Noon Dec. 22...................................vs. Kent State, 7 p.m.

Dec. 28.....................................at Ohio State, 6 p.m.

Jan. 1.......................................vs. Maryland, 5 p.m.

Jan. 4...........................................at Indiana, 6 p.m.

Jan. 7.....................................vs. Wisconsin, 5 p.m.

Jan. 11..............................vs. Northwestern, 7 p.m.

Jan. 25.....................................at Ohio state, 6 p.m.

Jan. 28......................................vs Maryland, 1 p.m.

Feb. 4.............................................at Illinois, 3 p.m.

Feb. 8..............................................vs. Iowa, 8 p.m.

Feb. 11.......................................at Rutgers, 11 a.m.

Feb. 15........................................vs. Indiana, 8 p.m.

Feb. 19.........................................vs. Michigan, TBA Feb. 22.................................at Maryland, 7:30 p.m.

March 2.......................................vs. Nebraska, TBA March 5......................................vs. Wisconsin, TBA Big Ten Tournament March 8-12................................in Washington D.C.

Jan. 15....................at Michigan, 11:30 a.m./3 p.m.

Jan. 18.........................................vs. Illinois, 7 p.m.

Jan. 21.............................................at Iowa, 2 p.m.

Jan. 26...................................vs. Ohio State, 7 p.m.

Jan. 30............................vs. Michigan State, 7 p.m.

Feb. 4........................................at Nebraska, 5 p.m.

Feb. 8.......................................at Penn State, 6 p.m.

Feb. 11.......................................vs. Rutgers, 2 p.m.

Feb. 16.............................at Michigan State, 6 p.m.

Feb. 23.............................................vs. Purdue, TBA Feb. 26.........................................vs. Maryland, TBA

www.gophersports.com/ Your one stop to stay on top of all the University of Minnesota athletic action.

24

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2016

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW