JumpStart - Winter Sports Preview 2019-20

Can lightning strike twice?

Packer girls eyeing another memorable run after magical season last year

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

Table of Contents

Cover story

Can lightning strike twice?

Packers hoping to build off last year’s magical run to the state tournament. ..............................................Page 3

Season previews

Austin Packers........... Pages 3-9 Southland Rebels................. Pages 10-11 Lyle-Pacelli Athletics ............... Pages 12-13 Grand Meadow Superlarks ............ Pages 14-15 LeRoy-Ostrander Cardinals .............. Pages 16-17 Blooming Prairie Awesome Blossoms ............... Pages 18-19 Hayfield Vikings .................. Pages 20-21

An Austin Daily Herald publication

Story previews compiled by Rocky Hulne and layout by Eric Johnson

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State Tournament Headquarters

Gopher mens and basketball schedules

A rundown of the top five story lines to watch in Fall of 2019. ............................................. Page 22 Get the lowdown on Minnesota State High School League state tournaments. ........................................... Page 22

Men and womens basketball schedules .......................................... Page 23

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............................................. Page 24

Be sure to visit www.austindailyherald.com throughout the season for game rundowns and features.

The Austin Packer boys basketball team warms up before their quarterfinal matchup against Monticello in Williams Arena last season. Herald file photo

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Austin’s Elyse Hebrink breaks around Robbinsdale Cooper’s Asia Smith in the first half during the quarterfinals of the Minnesota Class AAA Girls State Basketball Tournament last year in the University of Minnesota’s Maturi Pavillion. Herald file photo

Can lightning strike twice?

Packers hoping to build off last year’s magical run to the state tournament

By Rocky Hulne

sports@austindailyherald.com

Last season, the Packers captured some March Magic to get to their first state tournament since 2008.

After losing to Red Wing 72-39 on Feb. 21, the Packers bounced back and beat AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

the Wingers 73-70 in the Section 1AAA semifinals just a few weeks later. Austin went on to beat Northfield 62-50 to get to state, but that’s where the run came to a sudden halt.

The Packers ran into a buzzsaw as they trailed big early and lost to Robbinsdale Cooper 72-40 in the state quarterfinals. The loss humbled the Packers, who amped up their summer schedule to prepare for teams that can run and gun like Cooper did last year.

Now, they think they’re ready for the next step.

“It’s still early, but I think we’re going to have another good season,” Austin sophomore Hope Dudycha said. “We all bond really well and even the new girls who are going to play are stepping up and filling a role. We know the potential is there to have a good season and we’re just building off last year.”

“We know the potential is there to have a good season and we’re building off last year.”

See LIGHTNING, Page 4

Hope Dudycha WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

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Familiar crew returns to court

Austin’s Hope Dudycha heads in for two against Albert Lea in the first half Tuesday night in Ove Berven Gym. Herald file photo

The Austin girls basketball team is coming off its best season in a decade and it’s hoping to keep the ball rolling this winter.

Austin is coming off a season where it advanced to its first state tournament in 11 years. The Packers went 20-10 overall.

Austin brings back the bulk of its roster from last year, including seniors Colie Justice, who averaged 11.9 points per game last season, and Kyra Walters, who averaged 9.2 points per game last year. The team also returns sophomore guard Hope Dudycha, who averaged 10 points per game last year and her twin sister Emma Dudycha, who caught fire in the postseason last year.

“Emma Dudycha played so well for us at the end of last year.

She had huge growth last year,” Austin head coach Eric Zoske said. “She had a slow start to the year and she was one of our best players at the end of the year.”

Austin graduated two of its tallest players from last year’s team in Abby Lewis and Kiwi VanZant, so the Packers will have to learn to play undersized in most of their matchups.

Zoske said the team will find ways to play to their strengths as the season goes on.

SCHEDULE/

Home games in bold Nov. 21........Austin 71, Rochester Century 39 Nov. 22......Austin 63, Kasson-Mantorville, 57 Nov. 23..........................Austin 59, Big Lake 37 Nov. 30.................Austin 61, Mankato East 55 Dec. 3.........................Austin 89, Albert Lea 34 Dec. 6.............................Austin 89, Winona 41 Dec. 10.......vs. Rochester Mayo, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 12.................at Mankato West, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 17..................at Rochester JM, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 20.................vs. Faribault, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 2.................vs. Owatonna, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 4...........at Mayo Civic Center Invite, TBA Jan. 7...........................at Red Wing, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 10...............vs. Northfield, 7:30 p.m.

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

Jan. 21........................at Albert Lea, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 23....................vs. Winona, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 25...............................at Faribault, 1 p.m.

Jan. 28..............at Rochester Mayo, 7:30 p.m.

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

Feb. 4.............vs. Rochester JM, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 11........................at Owatonna, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 14.................vs. Red Wing, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 18........................at Northfield, 7:30 p.m.

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

“We’re going to try and be a little bit more aggressive than maybe we were in years past. We’re small, we’re fast and we have zero height,” Zoske said. “But that’s okay, because we have the speed and athleticism to make up for

the lack of height. These girls are winners and they’ll find out what it takes to be successful.”

The Packers have high expectations as a team this season, but they’re not counting on last year’s success to make things easy this season. Walters said the team will have to continue to push towards improvement on a daily basis.

“All we can do is grow and get better. We know we can do it as long as we keep a stable mindset and keep thinking that we have to get better. The process starts over and over again,” Walters said. “We have very high expectations this year. We have a lot of younger girls coming up and they could play big roles on our team this year. We just expect them to come to every practice and every come to play really hard and do their best. From there, we’re going to succeed.”

Zoske said the Packers are introducing a new offensive gameplan this season and the Packers will continue to mix things up on the defensive end of the floor.

“We’re probably not going to be great at one defense, so we’re going to try and be good at a lot of things,” Zoske said. “We have a really IQ team and they can handle a lot of schemes. I think that’s truly our strength.”

Lightning: Packers to face determined team From Page 3 Dudycha broke the 20-point barrier in her first three games of the season and the team also has UW-River Falls commit Colie Justice to help out on the offensive side.

Kyra Walters will give the Packers a much-needed boost inside as the team will need some help in the paint.

Elyse Hebrink will be asked to step up in all areas of the game and Emma Dudycha will give Austin another scorer who can make things happen.

The Packers are hoping to accomplish great things this season, but it won’t come

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

easy. The team is ready to take on the best shot of every opponent they play this winter.

“After going to state last year teams are going to be ready to come out and bring their best game,” Hope said.

While Northfield has moved out of Section 1AAA, Red Wing will likely loom down the stretch again for the Packers.

It’s likely the Wingers will be seeking revenge, but it’s also likely they may be seeing an entirely more prepared Austin team than they saw last year.

That could lead to another big run for the Packers.

Austin’s Kyra Walters dumps the ball off to Elyse Hebrink during the first half against Albert Lea in Ove Berven Gym early this season. Herald file photo AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Packer boys regrouping for 2019 The Packers have made a habit out of doing big things as they’ve played in six of the last eight Minnesota Class AAA Minnesota State Boys Basketball Tournaments and they have high hopes once again, despite graduating four starters from last year’s team that went 25-6 overall.

The Packers have to replace 1,000 point scorer Medi Obang, but Austin head coach Kris Fadness thinks the team has the talent to do it. Austin has nine seniors on its roster — including Agwa Nywesh, who averaged 16 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.8 steals and 3.1 steals per game last season.

“The biggest challenge will be to keep our seniors happy,” Fadness said. “When you’ve got juniors like Teyghan Hovland, Okey Okey and Ethan Owens and sophomores like Victor Idris and Emanuel Manyuon when he gets healthy, it’s going to be tough to keep all of our seniors happy, but I think we’ve got a chance to be pretty good again.”

Already a leader on last year’s team, Nywesh is ready to take on even bigger role this season. He is optimistic about the potential of the Packers.

“I feel we can be one of the best teams in Minnesota. Coach Fadness wins championships and he’s a winner. That mentality rubs off on all of us and he gives us the mentality to win,” Nywesh said. “We’ve got a lot of sleepers on the team and there are a lot of guys that aren’t really that known, who have game. They’ve put the hours in the gym and they’re ready to show it.”

Last year the Packers played small ball for most of the season — featuring a lineup that often saw four guards on the court at once. This year’s Packers are bigger, and a little less quick, but don’t expect Fadness to call of the full court press any time soon.

“We’re going to have to figure some things out. We’re not last year’s team.

They were a lot faster, position for position and more guard orientated,” Fadness said.

“This year we’re a little bigger and longer.

I think we’re going to have have develop our inside game a little bit more and utilize it. I’m hoping we can be better rim protectors and I’m hoping we can be a better rebounding team.”

Junior Okey Okey is also expected to be a contributor for the Packers, along with seniors Pierre Lilly, Our Gari and Moses Idris.

“We need to come together as a team and everyone needs to find their role,” Lilly said.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Austin’s Ogur Gari is one of nine seniors returning to this year’s Austin Packers boys basketball team. Herald file photo

SCHEDULE/Home games in bold Nov. 30...............................Austin 62, Rochester Century 58 Dec. 6....................................................Austin 73, Winona 59 Dec. 10.....................................at Rochester Mayo, 7:30 p.m.

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

Dec. 17.............vs. Rochester John Marshall, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 20................................at Austin at Faribault, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 27.....................at Lakeville North Tournament, 6 p.m.

Dec. 28.....................at Lakeville North Tournament, 6 p.m.

Jan. 2................................................at Owatonna, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 7.................................................vs. Red Wing, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 10..............................................at Northfield, 7:30 p.m.

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

Jan. 21...................................vs. Albert Lea, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 23...................................................at Winona, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 25.........................................vs. Faribault, 1 p.m.

Jan. 27..........................vs. Rochester Mayo, 7:30 p.m.

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

Feb. 4........................at Rochester John Marshall, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 11..................................vs. Owatonna, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 14................................................at Red Wing, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 18..................................vs. Northfield, 7:30 p.m.

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

Feb. 24..............................vs. Mankato East, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 28...............................................at Albert Lea, 7:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

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Setting sights on reaching the top Despite youth APDT expecting great things as the season progresses The Austin Packer Dance team has a lot of youth on its roster, but the team still has its sights set on big things this winter.

The Packers took fifth in high kick and 11th in jazz in its 17th straight trip to the Minnesota Class AA State Dance Meet last year and the team is hoping to make it back to the big dance again this year.

“We have a pretty young team with a lot of sophomores, but a lot of them have experience on varsity,” Austin captain Kaitlyn Goligowski said. “We want to make it to state again.”

Early season practices are often hard, but the Packers have been able to stay supportive of each other throughout the grind. The team began with a strong session of captain’s practices and it has cranked up the intensity as it prepares for the season.

“We have a lot of positivity and when things get hard, we just keep going,” Austin captain Ellie Eyre said. “We know that’s going to make us better in the end.

I think that’s what pushes us through every day of pracPaige Leibeg tice.”

Last year was the first time in a decade that Austin advanced to state in the dance and jazz and the Packers have their sights set on a repeat performance.

“I think one thing motivating us for jazz this year is that we did go to state last year,” Paige Leibeg said. “We’re definitely pushing ourselves harder to go back to where we were.”

To prepare for jazz, the Packers have even added a little spice to their practice routine.

“We’ve been focusing a lot on ballet in practice to help us have good technique for when we perform,” Briella Wempner said.

The Packers will host the Big Nine meet this season on Jan. 18, which will give the team a chance to showcase its routine in front of its home fans.

Austin captain Salma Masood said the Packers are excited to get out and get the season running.

“We’ve had a very positive attitude,” Masood said. “We want to improve in each competition and get better each time.”

“I think one thing motivating us for jazz this year is that we did go to state last year. We’re definitely pushing ourselves harder to go back to where were were.”

SCHEDULE/Home competitions in bold

Salma Masood performs with the Austin Packer Dance Team last season. Herald file photo

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

Dec. 7.............................................................second in high kick, fourth in jazz at Holy Angels Dec. 14.................................................................................................................at Eastview, TBA Jan. 11..............................................................................................................at Bell Plaine, TBA Jan. 18........................................................................Big Nine Meet in Austin, noon Jan. 25....................................................................................................................at Simley, TBA AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Girls hockey bolstered by youth, new coach The Austin girls hockey team is leaning on a big sophomore class and new leadership as it looks to turn the program in the right direction this winter.

The Packers graduated the bulk of their roster from a team that went 10-14-1 overall last season, but they will get a fresh start with new head coach Troy Holtz, the former Austin boys hockey head coach who has a lot of experience coaching at the youth levels.

Since Austin does not have a 12U team this season, the Packers will have enough middle school players to have a JV team.

Some of those middle schoolers could even play their way up to the varsity level.

“There’s a lot of big sister, little sister dynamics in the locker room and I’m proud of how these girls are taking the little kids under their wings and showing them the way,” Holtz said. “Our captains this year are Jordyn McCormack, Kate Holtz and Sam Krueger. They’ve done a great job of leading this team. They know there are some pretty big holes to fill, but we’re hoping to be a deeper team. I’m going to play three lines and we’ll get some rest. We won’t be as tired in the third period.”

Holtz said the Packer defense will be key to their success this season. The team will look for Krueger, Cassie Davidson and Megan Schultz to protect the net on a nightly basis.

“Those three have never had that much pressure before, but that’s kind of where we’re going to build our team,” Holtz said.

“We have a couple of solid forward lines, but our defense will tell us where we’re at.”

McCormack is looking to enjoy her senior year, while also helping the Packers build towards the future.

“I’m hoping we can have fun and grow together. It’s my last season, so I want to make it a good one,” she said. “We’re just trying to help them adapt and get up to speed. We’re trying to help them compete at a higher level and we’re getting them out of their comfort zone. I feel like they’re a little nervous to play with older girls so we’re trying to help them be confident.”

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Troy Holtz takes over as head coach of the girls hockey team this season. Herald file photo

SCHEDULE/Home meets in bold Nov. 16........................Rochester John Marshall 6, Austin 4 Nov. 19...........................................Mankato East 6, Austin 4 Nov. 23...................................................Red Wing 3, Austin 2 Dec. 3.............................................Austin 4, Mankato West 3 Dec. 5..................................................Albert Lea 10, Austin 2 Dec. 7..............................................Worthington 10, Austin 3

Dec. 10.............................................vs. Waseca, p.m.

Dec. 12......................vs. Rochester Century, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 14....................vs. Long Prairie Grey Eagle, 2 p.m.

Dec. 17.....................................at Rochester Mayo, 5:30 p.m.

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

Dec. 21....................................................at Windom, 11 a.m.

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

Jan. 4.........................................................at Faribault, noon

Jan. 9....................................vs. Northfield, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 14.................................vs. Mankato West, 7 p.m.

Jan. 17....................................vs. Fond Du Lac, 7 p.m.

Jan. 18...........................at Rochester John Marshall, 1 p.m.

Jan. 23.................................at Rochester Century, 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 25.............................vs. Worthington, 12:45 p.m.

Jan. 28..................................vs. Owatonna, 7:15 p.m.

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

7

Austin’s Kaleb Ree puts a shot on the La Crescent goal early this season at Riverside Arena.

Herald file photo

Austin’s Latham Wilson flips Rochester Century’s Zach Herber at 138 pounds, which Wilson went on to win by decision last season. Herald file photo

Wrestlers looking strong Packer boys hockey at the middle weights

will need to build The Austin boys hockey team will have to be patient and driven if it wants to grow towards being competitive this season.

The Packers graduated a bulk of their team that went 8-18-1 overall last season and the number of players on the team is so low that Austin will not have a JV squad this winter.

“We had kids that decided they didn’t want to come back, kids that didn’t want to move up from bantams and kids that just wanted to do other things,” Austin head coach Jason Merritt said. “Our numbers put us at one team this year and we’re young.”

The Packers will lean on the leadership of seniors Nick Dunlap, Kaleb Ree, Blaine Krueger, Gavin Johnson and Bubba Grunewald. The team will also receive a scoring boost from junior Garett Shaefer.

“We’ve got to work hard in practice and keep going,” Schaefer said. “We’ve got to stay out of the box too.”

Austin will rely on junior Brayden Klapperick and freshman Sam Eyre to play goalie. Neither had played the position before this season.

Merritt said his team will have to continue to fight, no matter how tough things get this season.

“There’s going to be ups and downs.

We’re going to play well at times and not well at times. It’s a work in progress,”

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

SCHEDULE/Home games in bold Nov. 22....................................................Waseca 6, Austin 2 Nov. 23.............................................La Crescent 7, Austin 5 Nov. 30...............................................Red Wing 15, Austin 3 Dec. 3.........................................Dodge County 11, Austin 2 Dec. 6..................................................Albert Lea 8, Austin 1 Dec. 17........................vs. Rochester Mayo, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 26........................................at La Crescent Invite, TBA Dec. 27........................................at La Crescent Invite, TBA Dec. 28........................................at La Crescent Invite, TBA Jan. 2.......................................vs. Owatonna, 7 p.m.

Jan. 4.........................................vs. Faribault, 1 p.m.

Jan. 7...................vs. Le-Sueur-Henderson, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 9...............................................at Northfield, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 11................vs. Rochester John Marshall, 1 p.m.

Jan. 14......................................at Mankato West, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 18.........................................vs. Winona, 1 p.m.

Jan. 21.................................vs. Albert Lea, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 23.....................vs. Rochester Century, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 30...................................at Rochester Mayo, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 4....................................at Kasson-Mantorville, 7 p.m.

Feb. 6..............................vs. Mankato East, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 8........................................................at Winona, 2 p.m.

Feb. 11.....................................vs. Waseca, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 13...............................................at Faribault, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 15..........................at Rochester John Marshall, 1 p.m.

Merritt said. “It’s going to be hard. They have to give the effort they need in practice. You’ve got to still grind away at it, because you never know.”

The Austin wrestling team is looking to stay competitive in the middle weights, but it may struggle to put a full lineup on the mat this season.

The Packers are deep in the 120-pound to 152-pound range, but the team is short on lightweight and heavyweight wrestlers as it looks for a big sophomore class to step up this season.

“Hopefully we can get big wins when we’ve got guys in the lineup and I hope that we can fill as many spots as we can,” Austin head coach Jacob Nelson said. “Our team is growing and we’ve got a lot of new guys, which is encouraging.

We’ve just got to push them and get them to varsity caliber.”

The Packers do not have any returning state qualifiers, but junior Adam Vlasaty was within one win of state when he lost a ‘true team’ qualifier last year. Some of Austin’s younger wrestlers are also expected to make a strong push this season as well.

“We have some standout talent at certain weight classes,” Nelson said. “Tommy (Fritz) is a freshman, but he’s wrestled varsity for two years already and he’s ready to jump in. He has some really high goals this year. Lathan Wilson and Angel Aguilera-Lemus both qualified for freshman state last year and they’re hoping to qualify for state here. They’re working hard and they were eager to get in the room before the season.”

Fritz and the Packers are now in their second year under Nelson and his coach-

SCHEDULE/Home meets in bold Dec. 7........................................................Edina 81, Austin 0 Dec. 12.............vs. Caledonia, GMLOS, Winona, 5 p.m.

Dec. 14................................................at Northfield, 10 a.m.

Dec. 19......................................vs. Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Dec. 21................................................at Monticello, 10 a.m.

Jan. 4..............................................at Cannon Falls, 10 a.m.

Jan. 9......vs. Faribault and Rochester Mayo, 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 11............................at Planview-Elgin-Millville, 9 a.m.

Jan. 16.....................................at Rochester Century, 7 p.m.

Jan. 24........................................at Mankato East, 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 25.....................................at South Saint Paul, 10 a.m.

Jan. 31............................................at Mankato West, 5 p.m.

Feb. 1.............................................at Mankato East, 10 a.m.

Feb. 6.........................................vs. Blue Earth, PEM, Rochester John Marshall, 5 p.m.

ing staff.

“Last year was a learning experience with the coaches and we were getting used to them. Now we’re giving feedback and it’s working out. We’re learning and working hard,” Fritz said. “Everyone is cheering each other up and trying to make us better.”

Austin sophomore Brenan Winkels is going to move into a leadership role on this year’s team and he said the Packers have come out with proper energy.

“We’re definitely a lot closer and we’re ready to work hard,” Winkels said.

“We’ve got a lot of new guys and we have a healthy competition on the team. We want to improve throughout the season.”

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Gymnasts banking on improvement The Austin gymnastics team has a strong history in the YMCA over the last decade, and the Packers are hoping to close out their home away from home in style before moving into the brand new Rec Center when it opens this winter.

Since 2010, the Packers have competed in seven Minnesota Class A State Gymnastics Meets and they are hoping to make a push towards doing it again.

Seniors Morgan Raymond and Jordan DeLaMater both return with state meet experience for the Packers.

“I think we’re definitely improved on last year. We’ve added a lot of girls and we’ve worked really hard over the summer,” Raymond said. “State is definitely a goal of ours. Especially after taking second the last couple of years. It al-

ways sucks to get second.”

Raymond has mixed feelings about being the last Packer team to compete in the YMCA building.

“It’s kind of weird. We’ve been in here taking classes since we were like three years old and we kind of grew up in here,” Raymond said.

“But it’s exciting to be moving to the new facility. We’ll have a lot more space and get a lot more opportunities.”

The Packers have four seniors on the roster DeLaMater said they have done their best to help push along the team’s younger members — which includes six middle schoolers.

“We’re looking to have a solid lineup instead of having to switch it up every meet,” DeLaMater said.

“Getting to state is definitely a goal for a lot of kids.”

Austin senior Lily Reynen is ex-

SCHEDULE/

Home meets in bold Nov. 30................................Third at Austin Invite Dec. 5..............Austin 131.125, Faribault 122.775 Dec. 13..............................at Red Wing, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 19............................at Owatonna, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 2.....................vs. Northfield, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 4....................................at Faribault, 11 a.m.

Jan. 9........................at Mankato West, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 11..........................at Lakeville North, 9 a.m.

Jan. 16........................vs. Winona, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 18..........................................at Park, 11 a.m.

Jan. 24..............................at Rochester, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 8............Big Nine Meet in Austin, 3 p.m.

cited to get things going this season.

“We have a lot of the same girls coming back and we also have a lot of new girls,” Reynen said. “I think it will be a good season, because we’ve all worked together before.”

Austin’s Morgan Raymond on the uneven parallel bars Thursday night at the YMCA. Herald file photo

Austin building on high expectations The expectations could not be much greater for the Austin boys swimming and diving team.

A year after they put athletes on the podium in seven events at the Minnesota Class A State Meet and broke several school records, they have the bulk of their team back and ready to even bigger things this winter.

Austin head coach Ryan Kelly has already geared his practices towards making his best swimmer’s faster. If the younger swimmers have to take a break now and then — that’s what will have to happen.

“We’ve got a group that knows themselves well, they’ve been together a long time and the sky’s the limit for them right now,” Kelly said. “We have everyone back from state. We’ve got really high goals right

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Austin’s Rafe Dolan Peterson swims in the 200 yard freestyle against Rochester Mayo last season. Herald file photo now. Both of those state relays are both in place. If we keep pushing it and keep everyone healthy, we’ve got a chance to do some

really special things.”

The Packers have 29 athletes on this year’s team and the squad will rely heav-

SCHEDULE/Home meets in bold Dec. 5................................................Austin 84, Albert Lea 53 Dec. 7...........................................Third at Hutchinson Invite Dec. 12.....................................at Rochester Mayo, 6:30 p.m.

Dec. 14..............................................at Mankato East, 1 p.m.

Dec. 19...................................................at Owatonna, 6 p.m.

Jan. 2.............................................vs. Winona, 6 p.m.

Jan. 4..........................................Austin Invite, 1 p.m.

Jan. 9....................................vs. Mankato East, 6 p.m.

Jan. 16..........................................at Rochester Mayo, 6 p.m.

Jan. 23........................................vs. Red Wing, 6 p.m.

Jan. 30...........................at Rochester John Marshall, 6 p.m.

Feb. 5.........................at Big Nine Meet at Northfield, 5 p.m.

Feb. 6..........................at Big Nine Meet at Northfield, 4 p.m.

ily on seniors Rafe Dolan Peterson, who took fourth in the 100-yard freestyle and the 100-yard butterfly at state last year, Riley Norton, who has been to state diving in each of the last three years.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

9

Rebel boys to build on returning core The Southland boys basketball team has a solid group of contributors back in the lineup after it went 7-19 overall last season.

The Rebels will look to Matt Mueller, who averaged 10 points per game last season as well as Reece Tapp, Noah Lamp and Nick Boe. “We will look to be competitive all year,” Southland head coach Matt Webber said.

“Our strength is we were growing last year in a tough conference so we will be battle tested and ready this year. We will have to try and be consistent all season.”

SCHEDULE/Home games in bold Dec. 6.....................................Saint Charles 95, Southland 61 Dec. 13..................................................at Chatfield, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 14..................................................at Goodhue, 2:15 p.m.

Dec. 17....................................at Wabasha-Kellogg, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 20...........................vs. Lewiston-Altura, 7:30 p.m.

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

Dec. 28.........................................vs. Kingsland, 8 p.m.

Jan. 3.........................................at Fillmore Central, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 7............................vs. Blooming Prairie, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 10.......................vs. Rushford-Peterson, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 14..........................................at Winona Cotter, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 16..........................vs. LeRoy-Ostrander, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 17..................................vs. La Crescent, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 21.................................................at Caledonia, 7:30 p.m.

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

Jan. 27.................................vs. Dover-Eyota, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 28.............................vs. Grand Meadow, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 4........................................vs. Hayfield, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 6..............................................at Saint Charles, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 11.....................................vs. Chatfield, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 13..................................vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 14..........................vs. Wabasha-Kellogg, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 18...............vs. Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 21............................................at Dover-Eyota, 7:30 p.m.

10

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

Southland’s Matt Mueller makes a pass against Hayfield last season. Herald file photo

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Southland girls BB big on returners The Southland girls basketball team has six players back from a team that went 7-19 overall last year before bowing out to Lyle-Pacelli by a score of 56-44 in the Section 1A quarterfinals.

The Rebels will lean on the leadership of senior captain Lexi Smith and junior captains Kelsey Mensink and Larissa Goslee.

“Lexi loves basketball and she has been a solid leader during her career here,” Southland head coach Dean Bendtsen said. “Kelsey is level headed and even keel, Larissa was our MVP last season and we also have Kayla Nelsen back, who was our defensive player of the year last Dean Bendtsen year.”

Head coach Jenna Benton also returns as Southland’s leading three-point shooter from last year and sophomores Bailey Nelson, Hattie Wiste and Maddy Bhend could all take their game to the next level.

Bendtsen is hoping his team can surpass the .500 mark and show up and work hard every night.

“Our girls hustle, work hard, and never give up,” Bendtsen said. “We have a number of girls that have been in the system for awhile now. They know what to expect and what is expected of them. That familiarity will hopefully translate to production on the floor.”

Southland has just 16 girls in the program that are in grades 9-12 so the team cannot afford any injuries. The team is also short on team height.

“Hopefully we'll make up for that in effort and heart,” Bendtsen said. “We also have just 16 girls 9-12 so we are a bit challenged in the numbers department.”

“We have a number of girls that have been in the system for awhile now. They know what to expect and what is expected of them.”

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Southland’s Larissa Goslee tries to save the ball from going out of bounds against Lyle-Pacelli last season. Herald file photo

SCHEDULE/

Home games in bold Dec. 3.................................Dover-Eyota 66, Southland 41 Dec. 6.........................Saint Charles 58, Southland 53, OT Dec. 13.................................vs. Chatfield, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 14....................................vs. Byron, 12:30 p.m.

Dec. 20.................................at Lewiston-Altura, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 27.........................................at Mabel-Canton, 8 p.m.

Dec. 28....................................vs. Kingsland, 6 p.m.

Jan. 2.............................vs. Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 3........................vs. Fillmore Central, 7:30 p.m.

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

Jan. 10............................at Rushford-Peterson, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 14.........................vs. Winona Cotter, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 16...............................at LeRoy-Ostrander, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 17........................................at La Crescent, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 21................................vs. Caledonia, 7:30 p.m.

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

Jan. 28..................................at Grand Meadow, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 4................................................at Hayfield, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 6.............................vs. Saint Charles, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 11.............................................at Chatfield, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 13.........................................at Lyle-Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

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

Follow the Austin Daily Herald sports coverage on Twitter and get updates, photos and more! Go to:

@RockyHulneADH and @EricJohnsonADH WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

11

L-P girls putting a target on growth The Lyle-Pacelli girls basketball team is hoping to find a lot of growth this season after it graduated four key players from last year’s team that went 23-5 overall and lost to Goodhue 42-33 in the Section 1A title game.

The Athletics will bring back one vital player from their 2018 state championship team in senior Olivia Christianson, who averaged 22 points, eight rebounds and three assists per game last year.

Rachel Nelsen is also back in the lineup after starting for LP last season. Nelsen brings athletics and defensive aggressiveness to the lineup for the Athletics.

“We will have quite a different look this season,” LP head coach Anna Meyer said.

“We are very excited about returning Olivia and Rachel after they both played massive minutes for us last year. We will also bring in a core group of underclassmen that have big shoes to fill.”

LP also has a new generation of players ready to step up and contribute.

“We are excited about the young players that will fill the rest of our line up, along with two juniors that decided to return to the team after taking previous seasons off,” Meyer said. “We know a lot of work will be needed to make strides this year.”

SCHEDULE/Home games in bold Nov. 25......................Lyle-Pacelli 57, Schaeffer Academy 49 Dec. 3........................................Randolph 65, Lyle-Pacelli 43 Dec. 5................................Grand Meadow 52, Lyle-Pacelli 34 Dec. 10..............................vs. GHEC-Truman, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 13....................................at LeRoy-Ostrander, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 17...................................vs. Kingsland, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 20.........................vs. Crestwood, Iowa, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 21....................................................at Lanesboro, 6 p.m.

Dec. 27.............................................at Hayfield Invite, 6 p.m.

Dec. 28.............................................at Hayfield Invite, 3 p.m.

Jan. 2...........................................vs. Goodhue, 7 p.m.

Jan. 3.............................................at Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

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

Jan. 9......................................at Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 10.............................vs. Mabel-Canton, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 14........................................at Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

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

Jan. 24.....................................at Fillmore Central, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 28..............................vs. Alden-Conger, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 30..............vs. Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 7:15 p.m.

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

Feb. 4........vs. Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 7:15 p.m.

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

Feb. 11...............................................at Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

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

Feb. 14...........................vs. LeRoy-Ostander, 7:15 p.m.

12

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

Lyle-Pacelli’s Olivia Christianson leaps in the air on defense against Southland in the Section 1A quarterfinals at Mayo Civic Center last season Herald file photo AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

With full roster, L-P hoping for bounce back season The Lyle-Pacelli boys basketball team brings back the majority of its roster as it looks to bounce back from a season where it went 9-14 overall last season.

The Athletics will look to juniors Jed Nelson, who averaged 14 points per game last season, Cole Walter and Zach Bollingberg to step up along with freshman Buay Koak and senior Mach Diang.

“Cole Walter will be the quarterback on the floor and will take the primaScott Koenigs ry leader role head coach but we need the other captains Jed and Zach to step it up too,” LP head coach Scott Koenigs said. “ Tyson Anderson and Sam Nelsen will be key players coming off the bench and providing energy.”

LP graduated just one player with big minutes last season, which leaves Koenigs optimistic about his squad. He’s hoping they can find the fire to improve and compete.

“I believe that we will be a much improved basketball team this year. The guys gained valuable experience last year and confidence should be high this season,” Koenigs said. “As always we will need to stay healthy and avoid injuries. With very small class sizes, depth and size is always a concern. Goal is to win the conference title and the section title.”

“I believe that we will be a much improved basketball team this year.”

SCHEDULE/Home meets in bold Dec. 3..........................................Randolph 67, Lyle-Pacelli 58 Dec. 5...............................Fillmore Central 49, Lyle-Pacelli 47 Dec. 6.................................Grand Meadow 51, Lyle-Pacelli 40 Dec. 10........................vs. Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 17.................................................at Kingsland, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 21.....................................................at Lanesboro, 8 p.m.

Dec. 27...............................................at Hayfield Invite, 3 p.m.

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

Jan. 3..................................vs. Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

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

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

Jan. 10..........................................at Mabel-Canton, 7:15 p.m.

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

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

Jan. 21...................................at Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 23..........................vs. Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

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

Feb. 3................................vs. GHEC-Truman, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 7.........................................vs. Houston, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 8............................................................at Madelia, 5 p.m.

Feb. 10..............................vs. Mabel-Canton, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 13................................................at Southland, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 14......................................at LeRoy-Ostrander, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 18...........................................at Alden-Conger, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 20..................................at Schaeffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

For all of your sports news including game recaps, features and photos go to: www.austindailyherald.com

Lyle-Pacelli’s Buay Koak with the swat during the first half in Section 1A Tournament action in Hayfield last season. Herald file photo AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

13

Full core of returners spur Superlarks The Grand Meadow boys basketball team has 12 players back in the fold from last year’s team that went 18-9 overall and lost to Rushford-Peterson 71-45 in the Section 1A quarterfinals.

The Superlarks are hoping to put together a solid season this winter and seniors Ethan Gilbert and Ethan Lane will give the team a boost, along with junior Colt Landers.

“These guys are great at leading by example and bringing everyone’s energy up,” GM head coach Dakotah Rostad said.

“They are great young men off the court as well.”

The Larks will have to be more physical this season than they were last season and Rostad thinks the team has the squad to get it done.

“These young men play the same style of team basketball no matter what mix of five are on the court,” Rostad said.

“This season is about continuing to build on what we started and got a taste of last season. Getting to play a playoff game in Rochester was a goal for the boys, which we reached. This year’s team doesn’t just aspire to get there, but they want to win there and keep winning there.”

SCHEDULE/Home games in bold

Grand Meadow’s Colt Landers turns to the basket during the first half against Lyle-Pacelli last season. Herald file photo

Dec. 3....................Grand Meadow 62, LeRoy-Ostrander 54 Dec. 6..............................Grand Meadow 51, Lyle-Pacelli 50 Dec. 10..............................................at Randolph, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 12..................................vs. Kingsland, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 14...vs. South Winneshiek, Luther College, 6 p.m.

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

Dec. 19...............................at Rochester Lourdes, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 21..........................................vs. Houston, noon Dec. 27.................Grand Meadow Tournament, 6 p.m.

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

Jan. 3...................................................at Hayfield, 7:15 p.m.

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

Jan. 9..........................vs. Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 10.............................................at Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 14............................at Lyle-Pacelli in Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 17..............................vs. Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24.......................................at Mabel-Canton, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 25..................................vs. Randolph, 3:15 p.m.

Jan. 28.............................................at Southland, 7:30 p.m.

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

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

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

Feb. 10...................................vs. Faribault BA, 7 p.m.

Feb. 14..............................................at Kingsland, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 17...................................vs. Chatfield, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 21............................vs. Mabel-Canton, 7:15 p.m.

Trio of grapplers looking to lead GMLOS A year after GMLOS saw Parker Hale win a state championship at 132 pounds in the Minnesota Class A State Wrestling Meet, the Bulldogs are hoping to continue that momentum as they have three juniors looking to lead the way on the mat.

Daniel Smith, who was 34-10 overall last season, Christian Jacobsen, who was 3611 last season, and Noah Sayles, who went 32-9 overall last season, are all expected to lead the way for GMLOS, which brings back 12 wrestlers from last season.

“All three of those guys have become great leaders on and off the mat,” GMLOS head coach Randy Smith said. “They are dedicated and work hard in wrestling and in the classroom. For these reasons these three wrestlers have been named captain for this season. They will be back to back in the middle to upper weights to help anchor the team in dual meets.”

GMLOS has 30 wrestlers on the team this season and many of them have a lot of experience on the mat.

14

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

SCHEDULE/Home meets in bold

GMLOS’ Christian Jacobson tries to flip Austin’s Josh Belden during their 160-pound match last season in Austin. Herald file photo

Dec. 5........................GMLOS Invite in Grand Meadow Dec. 7................................................................at Woodbury Dec. 12.........................................................at Austin, 5 p.m.

Dec. 14................................at South Winneshiek, 9:30 a.m.

Dec. 19..........................vs. Chatfield in LeRoy, 6 p.m.

Dec. 27........................................................at Rogers, 8 a.m.

Jan. 4...............................................................at Tartan, TBA Jan. 10.........................................at Lewiston-Altura, 5 p.m.

Jan. 11................................................at Stewartville, 8 a.m.

Jan. 16................................................at La Crescent, 7 p.m.

Jan. 18....................................................at Hayfield, 10 a.m.

Jan. 23.................Triangualr in Grand Meadow, 5 p.m.

Jan. 25.......................................at Riceville, Iowa, 9:30 a.m.

Jan. 30............................at Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 5 p.m.

Feb. 1.......................................at Wisconsin Dells, 9:30 a.m.

Feb. 7.....................................................at Caledonia, 5 p.m.

“These guys have been wrestling together for five plus years,”Smith said. “This year the wrestlers are starting to spread out and find their own weights to compete

the success we have had the past few years.

We hope to put a team together that can compete at the top of the section and give a run at the section championships.”

at. We continue to look for more bigger guys to fill the heavy weight position. Our main focus this year is to keep all of our wrestlers out and continue to build off of

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Setting the stage for 2019-20 Superlarks return just a handful of standouts from last year’s squad The Grand Meadow girls basketball team is looking to a new cast of players to rally around a couple of long-time veterans the season.

The Superlarks bring back standouts Riley Queensland and Isabelle Olson from last year’s team that went 25-2 overall, but was upset in a 54-52 loss to Lyle-Pacelli in the Section 1A semifinals.

Queensland will again provide scoring and Olson will provide defense and play-making, but they’ll also get some help from Madison Hindt, Rylee Groom and Gina Stier.

“We have good team speed again this year and we also have some height that we can work into the lineup,” GM head coach Ryan Queensland said. “We do, however, have a young bench that will be tested throughout the season.”

GM graduated four players from last year’s team, but Ryan Queensland is hoping this year’s team can compete for the SEC West title and make a run in the tournament.

“Our goal is to get a little better every day and embrace a growth mindset,” he said.

Grand Meadow’s Isabelle Olson guards Lyle-Pacelli’s Kayla Christopherson in the first half in the Section 1A semifinals last season at Rochester’s Mayo Civic Center. Herald file photo

SCHEDULE/Home games in bold Nov. 25..............................Grand Meadow 69, AC-GE 64, OT Dec. 3.....................Grand Meadow 67 LeRoy-Ostrander 23 Dec. 5..............................Grand Meadow 52, Lyle-Pacelli 34 Dec. 10...................................vs. Randolph, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 12..............................................at Kingsland, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 14..........at MFL Mar Marc in Luther College, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 17....................................vs. Hayfield, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 19.............................vs. Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 21................at Houston at Mayo Civic Center, 10 a.m.

Jan. 3.......................vs. Rochester Lourdes, 7:15 p.m.

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

Jan. 11...vs. N. Richland-HEG at Kasson-Mant., 10 a.m.

Jan. 14................................vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 16.................................vs. Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 17.........................................at Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 20.........................vs. Lewiston-Altura, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 21..............................................at Randolph, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24............................vs. Mabel-Canton, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 28.................................vs. Southland, 7:15 p.m.

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

Feb. 1.................................................at Goodhue, 1:30 p.m.

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

Feb. 14..................................vs. Kingsland, 7:15 p.m.

TRAP PARTICIPANT 2017

74947 State Hwy 16 Grand Meadow, MN 55936 Ph 507-754-5876 featherlitegraphics.com

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

15

Cardinal girls under new leadership The LeRoy-Ostrander girls basketball team is starting with a new core and a new head coach as it looks to build on last year’s record of 7-18 overall.

The Cardinals are turning to head football coach and former boys basketball coach Trevor Carrier to lead the way.

“It has been a great start and the girls are working hard, learning brand new systems and expectations,” Carrier said. “We understand that Rome wasn’t built in a day.

But I believe our hard work and energy will really help build a tremendous culture.”

LO will will look for leadership from Libertee Smalley, Gracie O’Byrne, Sam Volkart, Kaelea Lewis and Jordan Runde.

Carrier said he may play up to ten players on certain nights, depending on how things go.

“We have essentially a new roster and we also have a brand new coaching staff,” Carrier said. “We just want to get better every day. We understand this is a marathon, not a sprint.”

“We just want to get better every day. We understand this is a marathon, not a sprint.”

Trevor Carrier Head coach

SCHEDULE/Home meets in bold Dec. 3..................at Grand Meadow 67, LeRoy-Ostrander 23 Dec. 6.....................................AC-GE 71, LeRoy-Ostrander 40 Dec. 7.........................................Kee 55, LeRoy-Ostrander 34 Dec. 10...............................................at Kingsland, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 13.................................vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 17................................................at Randolph, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 19..............................................at Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 21.....................................vs. Schaeffer Academy in Mayo Civic Center, 5 p.m.

Jan. 6..............................at United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 7..............................vs. Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

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

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

Jan. 17........................................at Mabel-Canton, 7:15 p.m.

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

Jan. 23.............at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24...............................vs. Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 27..............................at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 7:15 p.m.

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

Feb. 4....................................................at Houston, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 6........................................................at Triton, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 10...........................................at Cannon Falls, 5:45 p.m.

Feb. 13.....................................vs. Hayfield, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 14..................................at Lyle-Pacelli in Lyle, 7:15 p.m.

16

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

LeRoy-Ostrander’s Libertee Smalley fights for a loose ball with Rushford-Peterson’s Kaitlyn Bieberdorf in LeRoy last season. Herald file photo AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Key players tasked with leading L-O boys The LeRoy-Ostrander boys basketball team brings back the a few key players from a group that went 11-15 overall last season as it looks to make strides under first year head coach Justin Stevens, who has been the JV coach for the past thee years.

LO will lean on seniors Riley Olson and Dakota Stoopes to lead the way on the court this season.

“We want to go out Justin Stevens every night Head coach and compete and good things will happen,” Stevens said.

“We have a good group of athletes that compliment each other well inside and out, but we don't have a lot of numbers so depth is hurting a bit.”

Chase Johnson, Isaac Collier, Tanner Olson and Levi Royston all return with varsity experience for the Cardinals.

“We have a good group of atheletes that compliment each other well inside and out, but we don’t have a lot of numbers so depth is hurting a bit”

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

LeRoy-Ostrander’s Riley Olson takes a contested shot against Blooming Prairie in 2018. Olson will be looked upon in his senior year to be a leader for the Cardinals. Herald file photo

SCHEDULE/Home meets in bold Dec. 3.....................Grand Meadow 62, LeRoy-Ostrander 54 Dec. 7........................LeRoy-Ostrander 59, Oelwein 57 Dec. 10...................................vs. Kingsland, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 12................................at Glenville-Emmons, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 13.............................at Lyle-Pacelli in Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

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

Dec. 19..................................................at Hayfield, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 21.....................................vs. Schaeffer Academy

in Mayo Civic Center, 7 p.m.

Dec. 27.....................at Grand Meadow Tournament, 6 p.m.

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

Jan. 3....................................vs. Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

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

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

Jan. 14......................vs. Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 16..............................................at Southland, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 17.............................vs. Mabel-Canton, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 21..............................................at Kingsland, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24.........................................at Spring Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 27...................vs. Kenyon-Wanamingo, 7:15 p.m.

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

Feb. 3..............................vs. Winona Cotter, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 4.........................................at Mabel-Canton, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 6......................................vs. Goodhue, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 10.........................................at Cannon Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 13..............................................at Lanesboro, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 14.................................vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

17

State qualifiers leading the way for Westfield wrestling

BP has full house going into 2019-20 Blossoms will rely on senior-heavy team

The Blooming Prairie boys basketball team is dealing with a full deck of cards and its hoping to hit the jackpot this season.

The Awesome Blossoms return the bulk of their lineup from a team that went 18-7 overall last season. BP senior Gabe Hagen, who averaged 13.9 points and 7.5 rebounds per game last season, is back in the lineup, along with returning starters Kaden Thomas, Karson Vigeland and Zach Archer.

Seniors Isaac Ille, Jarett Larson, Parker Vaith and Zach Weber also return to the lineup and senior Alex Baldwin is back on the team after taking some time off.

“After a few years of being relatively young, we are a very senior oriented team,” BP head coach Nate Piller said.

“We have a lot of guys with untapped individual potential and a team that needs to come together to play to its potential.

Once we get onto the basketball court, there needs to be some real urgency.”

The Blossoms may take a little time to find their legs after a long football postseason run, but Piller is hoping the team can find its drive.

“There’s no greater failure than to feel like we didn’t give everything. At the same time, there’s no greater sense of accomplishment than to look back and feel like we gave it everything we had and consistently gave our best,” Piller said. “That’s the standard we emphasize year in and year out.”

SCHEDULE/Home games in bold Dec. 6.........................Blooming Prairie 73, Faribault BA 40 Dec. 13....................vs. New Richland-HEG, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 19..................vs. Kenyon-Wanamingo, 7:15 p.m.

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

Jan. 2....................................vs. Chatfield, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 7..............................................at Southland, 7:30 p.m.

18

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

The Westfield Razorbacks have a pair of state qualifiers back in the lineup as they look towards a very competitive season on the mat.

Colton Krell, a two-time state qualifier, took third place at 170 pounds, finishing with a record of 38-4 overall last season.

Dylan Nirk also returns to the lineup as a two-time state qualifier.

Westfield graduated just one senior and it has nine wrestlers back with varsity experience.

“I believe this year will be a great year,” Westfield co-head coach Shane Masching said. “We have a lot of new members joining the program. I am very excited for the year to get started, with all the talent we have. Our team is hoping to advance to the state tournament this year.”

Westfield will look to leadership from Lane Lembke, Keegan Bronson, Cody Nirk, Tyler Archer, Cade Christianson, Joey Myer and Dylan Ehmke.

SCHEDULE/Home meets in bold

Blooming Prairie’s Gabe Hagen with a shot under pressure againast Hayfield last season during the Section 1A quarterfinals in Rochester’s Mayo Civic Center. Herald file photo Jan. 9.......................................at Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 10...vs. Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 14................................................at Medford, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 17...........................at United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 18..........vs. Goodhue in Target Center, 2:15 p.m.

Jan. 23...........................................at Lyle-Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24....vs. Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 30...........................................at Maple River, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 31..............................at New Richland-HEG, 7:15 p.m.

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

Feb. 7...................................................at Hayfield, 7:15 pm.

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

Feb. 11...........at Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 14....................................vs. Medford, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 17..............................vs. Maple River, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 21.................vs. United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 5............................at GMLOS Invite in Grand Meadow Dec. 7................................................................at Blue Earth Dec. 14...........................................................at Byron, 9 a.m.

Dec. 17..........................................................at Triton, 5 p.m.

Dec. 20............................................................at RCTC, 2 p.m.

Dec. 21..........................................................at RCTC, 10 a.m.

Jan. 7....................................................at Maple River, 5 p.m.

Jan. 9...................at Janseville-Waldorf-Pemberton, 5 p.m.

Jan. 11.................................................at Stewartville, 8 a.m.

Jan. 16.......................vs. United South Central, 7 p.m.

Jan. 18.............................vs. Invite in Hayfield, 9 a.m.

Jan. 21........vs. Kenyon-Wanamingo in Hayfield, 7 p.m.

Jan. 25....................................................at Lake City, 10 a.m.

Jan. 30.....................................at New Richland-HEG, 7 p.m.

Feb. 6..........................vs. Medford in Hayfield, 7 p.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

BP girls banking on returning experience “We had an outstanding summer and we played some of the top teams in Class A and AA.”

The Blooming Prairie vide a scoring presence in girls basketball team is hopthe paint as she averaged 15 ing one experienced roster points and 9.7 rebounds per can take the next step for game last year and the backthe program as the Awecourt will get a boost from some Blossoms bring back sophomore Bobbie Bruns, their entire roster from a who averaged 11.3 points team that went 13-10 overall and 3.5 assists per game last season. last season and junior MagBP senior Julia Worke, gie Bruns, who averaged 5.1 John Bruns who averaged 9.5 points and points per game last season.

Head coach 5.6 rebounds per game last Maren Forystek and Alyear, gives the Blossoms a lison Krohnberg will also versatile forward who can lead from all give BP a lift.

Goodhue has moved out of Section over the court, senior Maya Lembke will provide a burst of energy and defense and 1A and on to ‘AA,’ leaving BP to fight for senior Baylee Sorenson will help BP on the section crown along with the likes of Grand Meadow, Lyle-Pacelli Kingsland, the boards.

“We had an outstanding summer and we Southland, Randolph, Fillmore Central played some of the top teams in Class A and Houston.

“The section tournament should be a and AA,” BP head coach John Bruns said.

“We had several girls work hard this sum- wild one this year,” John Bruns said.

BP had its season end in a 49-43 loss to GM mer to get better.”

Junior forward Megan Oswald will pro- in the Section 1A quarterfinals last year.

Blooming Prairie’s Megan Oswald protects the ball after grabbing a rebound against Grand Meadow in the Section 1A quarterfinals at Mayo Civic Center last season in Rochester.

Herald file photo

SCHEDULE/Home meets in bold Dec. 3..Blooming Prairie 64, Janes.-Waldorf-Pemberton 23 Dec. 5...........................Blooming Prairie 51, Faribault BA 23 Dec. 10............................................at Maple River, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 13................................at New Richland-HEG, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 19................................................at Goodhue, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 27.................................at Hayfield Tournament, 6 p.m.

Dec. 28.................................at Hayfield Tournament, 6 p.m.

Jan. 2...................................................at Chatfield, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 3........................................................at Triton, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 7....................................vs. Southland, 7:15 p.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Jan. 9...................................vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 10.............at Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 14.....................................vs. Medford, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 17...................vs. United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 24.............at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 7:15 p.m.

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

Jan. 30.................................vs. Maple River, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 31......................vs. New Richland-HEG, 7:15 p.m.

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

Feb. 11.....vs. Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 13............................vs. Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 14..................................................at Medford, 7:15 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

19

Hayfield looking to be in the playoff hunt Despite graduating its top scorer from last year, the Hayfield boys basketball team is hoping to be right in the thick of things this winter.

The Vikings graduated 1,000-point scorer Mason Tapp from last year’s team that went 24-5 overall and lost on a buzzer beater to Spring Grove in a 45-43 loss in the section semifinals, but the team does return four starters.

Luke Dudycha, who averaged 11.7 points and 9.8 rebounds per game last year, Ethan Slaathaug, who averaged 11.6 points per game last season, Patrick Towey, who averaged 9.2 points, 4.9 assists and 3.9 rebounds per game last year and Isaac Matti are all back as starters.

Much of that core has been playing big minutes for the past two seasons.

“We should be an athletic team with plenty of offensive firepower,” said Hayfield head coach Chris Pack, who is in his 20th year on the job. “We need to improve on our on-ball defense, but should be a solid defensive team.”

Hayfield will also rely on Easton Frticher, Jake Risius, Lucas Hansen and James Watson to step up this season.

SCHEDULE/ Home games in bold

Hayfield’s Luke Dudycha with a lay-up against Lyle-Pacelli’s Buay-Koak in the first half of their Section 1A Tournament game last season in Hayfield. Herald file photo

Nov. 30........................................Hayfield 66, Randolph 60 Dec. 6............................Hayfield 76, New Richland-HEG 45 Dec. 10...................................vs. Medford, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 13.................at Water.-Elsyian-Morristown, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 19.......................vs. LeRoy-Ostrander, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 20.................................at Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 27..............................vs. Faribault BA, 7:15 p.m.

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

Dec. 29...........................................................Hayfield Invite Jan. 3............................vs. Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 4..................vs. Springfield in Mayo Civic Center, TBA Jan. 7......................vs. Rushford-Peterson, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 10..........................at United South Central, 7:30 p.m.

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

Jan. 16...............................vs. Maple River, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 25..............................at New Richland-HEG, 5:45 p.m.

Jan. 28...................................vs. Medford, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 30...............vs. Water.-Elysian-Morris., 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 1....................vs Minneota in Kasson-Mantor, 11 a.m.

Feb. 4..............................................at Southland, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 7.........................vs. Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 8.........................................vs. Triton, 4:30 p.m.

Feb. 11.................vs. United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 14.........................................at Faribault BA, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 18.............................at Scaheffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 21 ..........................................at Maple River, 7:15 p.m.

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AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

Hayfield girls BB focused on rebuild The Hayfield girls basketball team will look to rebuild this season after losing many of its key players from last year’s team that went 19-9 overall and lost to Goodhue 38-29 in the Section 1A semifinals.

The Vikings have a roster that don’t have a lot of varsity experience and the team will look to improve throughout the season.

Hayfield will lean on seniors Cela Carney, Rachel Pack, Payton O’Malley and Lila Gronseth to lead the way and eighth grader Kristen Watson will also see key minutes.

Hayfield’s Cela Carney drives baseline against Goodhue last season in the Section 1A semifinals at Rochester’s Mayo Civic Center. Herald file photo

SCHEDULE/Home meets in bold Dec. 5.............................New Richland-HEG 61, Hayfield 60 Dec. 7..................................Hayfield 61, Randolph 50 Dec. 10.................................................at Medford, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 12....vs. Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 17......................................at Grand Meadow, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 19............................................at Maple River, 7:15 p.m.

Dec. 21................vs. ACGE in Mayo Civic Center, 9 a.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Dec. 27.....................................Hayfield Invite, 6 p.m.

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

Jan. 3...................................................at Houston, 6:30 p.m.

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

Jan. 10..................vs. United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 11...............................................at Kingsland, 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 14............at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 16.....................................vs. Maple River, 6 p.m.

Jan. 23.....................vs. Schaeffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 25................................at New Richland-HEG, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 28.....................................vs. Medford, 7:15 p.m.

Jan. 31.............at Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 4....................................vs. Southland, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 6.....................................at Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 11............................at United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 13...................................at LeRoy-Ostrander, 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 14.....vs. Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 7:15 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

21

5

Austin girls proving they are no fluke Stories to watch

THE PACK IS BACK (AGAIN)

Having gone to six of the last eight Minnesota Class AAA state tournaments, the Packers are not sweating the loss of four starters from last year’s team.

Austin brings back all-around standout Agwa Nywesh and the team also has plenty of new players looking to make their mark on what has become a very successful program over the past decade.

NO FLUKE

The Austin girls basketball team snuck into the Minnesota Class AAA state tournament with a pair of upsets last year, but the Packers are banking on coming through the front door this season. Austin has a lot of firepower in its backcourt and the team is learning to play with confidence on a regular basis. It could be a big year for the Packers.

SWIMMING FOR RECORDS

The Austin boys swimming and diving team is loaded with five returning state qualifiers and a few school record holders. The Packers will be pushing to make noise in the ‘true team’ state tournament, as well as the individual state tournament.

at their disposal.

BLOOMING INTO THE SCENE

The Awesome Blossoms girls basketball team has had a young core over the past two seasons and now those players have grown up a bit and are ready to get out and compete. Junior forward Rachel Oswald and sophomore guard Bobbie Bruns will need to have very productive seasons to get BP over the hump and into Section 1A contention.

HEARTBREAK TO CONTENDERS?

The Hayfield boys basketball team lost on a buzzer beater in the Section 1A semifinals last year and it graduated it’s top scorer, but hopes are high as head coach Chris Pack enters his 20th season. The Vikings have size, scorers and a lot of energy

Austin’s Colie Justice races the ball up the court in the first half against Northfield in the Section 1AAA championship last season in Rochester’s Mayo Civic Center. Herald file photo

Tournament Headquarters Dance (Feb. 14-15) Target Center

Boys Swimming and Diving (Feb. 27-28)

Girls Hockey (Feb. 19-22)

Jean K. Freeman Aquatic Center, University of Minnesota

Gymnastics (Feb. 21-22)

3M Arena Mariucci, University of Minnesota; Xcel Energy Center

Excel Energy Center, TRIA Rink Treasure Island Roy Wilkins Auditorium

Wrestling (Feb. 27-28) Xcel Energy Center

Boys Hockey (March 4-7)

Girls Basketball (March 11-14) Williams Arena, Maturi Pavilion, Concordia University

Boys Basketball (March 18-21) Williams Arena, Target Center, Concordia University

For more information visit www.mshsl.org

22

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Riverland Men

Nov. 5...........................................RCC 93, Dakota State 59 Nov. 8................................................RCC 96, Luther JV 62 Nov. 11.......................................RCC 101, St. Mary’s JV 77 Nov. 15.................................................RCC 95, Hibbing 78 Nov. 16.............................RCC 117, Fond du Lac Tribal 53 Nov. 22.......................................RCC 81, Lake Superior 53 Nov. 23........................................Central Lakes 67, RCC 65 Dec. 2..................................Riverland 90, St. Mary’s JV 80 Dec. 6..........................Riverland 92, Rainy River 88 Dec. 7..............................Riverland 105, Hibbing 74 Dec. 10....................at Dakota State University, 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 12..............................at Luther College JV, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 4..............vs. Quakerdale Prep Academy, 4 p.m.

Jan. 8...................................at Minnesota West, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 11........................................at Anoka-Ramsey, 3 p.m.

Jan. 15......................................vs. RCTC, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 18...........................vs. Minnesota State, 3 p.m.

Jan. 22...........................vs. Western Tech, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 25..............................................at Ridgewater, 3 p.m.

Jan. 29........................................St. Cloud Tech, 7:45 p.m.

Feb. 1 ..............................vs. Anoka-Ramsey, 3 p.m.

Feb. 5.........................vs. Minnesota West, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 8........................................at Minnesota State, 3 p.m.

Feb. 12...................................................at RCTC, 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 15..................................vs. Ridgewater, 3 p.m.

Feb. 19..........................................at Western Tech, 3 p.m.

Feb. 22..............................vs. St. Cloud Tech, 3 p.m.

Riverland Women

Nov. 5...........................................RCC 62, Dakota State 60 Nov. 7.....................................................Bethel 64, RCC 50 Nov. 15.................................................Hibbing 68, RCC 59 Nov. 16.......................................RCC 72, Lake Superior 41 Nov. 22.......................................Lake Superior 77, RCC 48 Nov. 23........................................Central Lakes 57, RCC 46 Dec. 2.....................................at Saint Mary’s JV, 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 6..........................Rainy River 51, Riverland 39 Dec. 7...............................Hibbing 88, Riverland 62 Dec. 10......................................at Dakota State, 5:30 p.m.

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

Jan. 8...................................at Minnesota West, 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 11........................................at Anoka-Ramsey, 1 p.m.

Jan. 13........................vs. Bethany Lutheran, 7 p.m.

Jan. 22...........................vs. Western Tech, 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 29....................................at St. Cloud Tech, 5:45 p.m.

Feb. 1...............................vs. Anoka-Ramsey, 1 p.m.

Feb. 5.........................vs. Minnesota West, 5:30 p.m.

Feb. 10...................................at Bethany Lutheran, 7 p.m.

Feb. 19.....................................at Western Tech, 5:30 p.m.

Feb. 22..............................vs. St. Cloud Tech, 1 p.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW

Riverland Community College

SCHEDULES

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

23

Basketball GOPHER MEN’S BASKETBALL Oct. 28.............(Exhibition) Gophers 73, SW Minnesota State 48 Nov. 5..........................................Gophers 85, Cleveland State 50 Nov. 9...................................................Oklahoma 71, Gophers 62 Nov. 12........................................................Butler 64, Gophers 56 Nov. 15..........................................................Utah 73, Gophers 69 Nov. 21......................................Gophers 82, Central Michigan 57 Nov. 24...........................................Gophers 79, North Dakota 56 Nov. 29......................................................DePaul 73, Gophers 68 Dec. 2.....................................................Gophers 78, Clemson 60 Dec. 9............................................................Iowa 72, Gophers 52

Dec. 15........................................vs. Ohio State, 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 21...........................................at Oklahoma State, 4:30 p.m.

Dec. 28................................vs. Florida International, TBA Jan. 2..................................................................at Purdue, 6 p.m.

Jan. 5.....................................vs. Northwestern, 6:30 p.m.

Jan. 9......................................................at Michigan State, noon Jan. 15.............................................vs Penn State, 8 p.m.

Jan. 19.................................................................at Rutgers, noon Jan. 23......................................................at Ohio State, 5:30 p.m.

Jan. 26.......................................vs. Michigan State, 2 p.m.

Jan. 30............................................................at Illinois, 6:30 p.m.

Feb. 5...............................................vs. Wisconsin, 8 p.m.

Feb. 8............................................................at Penn State, 3 p.m.

Feb. 16......................................................vs. Iowa, noon Feb. 19................................................vs. Indiana, 8 p.m.

Feb. 23....................................................at Northwestern, 2 p.m.

Feb. 26..............................................vs. Maryland, 8 p.m.

March 1.....................................................at Wisconsin, 5:30 p.m.

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

March 8..............................................vs. Nebraska, noon.

GOPHER WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Nov. 5................Missouri State 77, Gophers 69 Nov. 10.......................Gophers 90, Vermont 58 Nov. 14...................Gophers 77, Milwaukee 61 Nov. 17...............Gophers 80, Arizona State 66 Nov. 23.............Gophers 71, Montana State 60 Nov. 26........................Gophers 101, Bryant 56 BIG Ten/ACC Women’s Challenge Dec. 4...................Gophers 75, Notre Dame 67 Dec. 8........................Gophers 70, American 53 Dec. 10...............at George Washington, 6 p.m.

Dec. 15........................vs. UC Davis, 1 p.m.

Dec. 21............................vs. Lehigh, noon Dec. 28.............................at Penn State, 4 p.m.

Dec. 31.....................vs. Ohio State, 1 p.m.

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

Jan. 9..................vs. Northwestern, 7 p.m.

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2019

Jan. 12....................................at Illinois, 2 p.m.

Jan. 16.............................vs. Iowa, 7 p.m.

Jan. 19...................................at Purdue, 1 p.m.

Jan. 22.......................vs Wisconsin, 7 p.m.

Jan. 27..................................at Indiana, 5 p.m.

Jan. 30.......................vs. Nebraska, 7 p.m.

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

Feb. 6................................at Wisconsin, 7 p.m.

Feb. 10.......................vs. Michigan, 6 p.m.

Feb. 13.............................at Ohio State, 6 p.m.

Feb. 17......................at Michigan State, 6 p.m.

Feb. 22.............................vs Indiana, TBA Feb. 27..........................................at Iowa, TBA March 1.....................vs. Maryland, 3 p.m.

All home Gopher mens and womens basketball games played at the University of Minnesota’s Williams Arena. www. gophersports.com

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - WINTER SPORTS PREVIEW