2015 Winter Sports Preview

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SPEARFISH SPARTANS LEAD-DEADWOOD GOLDDIGGERS BHSU YELLOW JACKETS BELLE FOURCHE BRONCS

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Winter 2015/2016

Spearfish boys continue building foundation

Fourteen juniors and seniors are vying for spots on Spearfish’s varsity boys’ basketball team. Pictured are, back row left, Dylan Reiners, Logan Stalder, Cole Richards, Jaxon Hinch, Devon Braun, Chet Samuelson, Tanner Butcher, Walker Sundsted; front row left, Michael Chaffin, Devan Fox, Corey Hoffman, Jaxon Rosencranz, Boyce Harr, and Donovan Balsley. Assistant coaches Keighton Hatten, Tory Duvall, and Lucas Reller; and head coach Luke Enos are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — Spearfish started to set a foundation in 2014-15 under first-yearhead coach Luke Enos.

The Spartans hope to continue that process this season, starting Dec. 12 at Red Cloud.

Defense served as one of the biggest parts of Spearfish’s identity last season.

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Enos said he would like to see the team build on that for this season.

Consistency is what Enos said he would like to see the team improve on from last season. “We want to keep improving,” he said.

“It was a really good season, all in all,” Enos said in recapping the 2014-15 campaign. “It’s sad to see the seniors leave, but they did a good job at foundation building.”

The Spartans forged a 15-7 record for a 2014-15 season that ended with a 63-58 loss to Sturgis in the District 4AA tournament’s third-place game.

Drew Kaitfors, Connor Janovy, Skyler Langer, Tanner Rost, Remington Wood, and Tyrell Rosencranz graduated from last season’s squad. Spearfish will compete in the class A ranks this season.

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SPEARFISH BOYS Seniors on this season’s team include 6-foot-4 guard Chet Samuelson, 6-4 forward Cole Richards, 6-7 center Devon Braun, 6-4 guard Jaxon Hinch, 5-11 guard Dylan Reiners, and 5-11 guard Logan Stalder. “We’ll be expecting good things from them,” Enos said.

Returning experience should be a Spartans’ strength, according to Enos.

“This will be their second year under me, and we have a good, athletic group,” he said.

Things will not necessarily be easier for the Spartans who have one year of experience under Enos. He said that should give the team a bit more flexibility, and players will not have to start from ground zero when it comes

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to learning the system.

“This year’s team has not earned anything,” Enos said. “We will need to improve in all areas.”

Spearfish’s schedule includes rivalry games against class AA Sturgis (Dec. 22 and Jan. 22), Belle Fourche (Jan. 12 and Feb. 16), Lead-Deadwood (Feb. 2), and St. Thomas More (Jan. 26).

Other class AA schools on the schedule are Rapid City Stevens (Jan. 5), Douglas (Jan. 9 and Feb. 18), Rapid City Central (Jan. 29), Huron (Feb. 5), and Harrisburg (Feb. 12).

Enos sees St. Thomas More as a contender in the Black Hills Conference race and said Spearfish should be in the mix.

He said any team can win on any given night.

Success this season can take several forms, according to Enos.

He said the team expects to win, but players must bring energy and enthusiasm to the gym every day and focus on their strengths.

Spearfish boys’ basketball schedule

Dec. 12 — 7:30 p.m. Spearfish at Red Cloud Dec. 22 — 8 p.m. Spearfish vs. Sturgis Brown Dec. 29 — TBA Spearfish at Chadron Tournament Dec. 20 — TBA Spearfish at Chadron Tournament Jan. 2 — 7:30 p.m. Spearfish at Custer Jan. 5 — 8 p.m. Spearfish at Rapid City Stevens Jan. 8 — 8 p.m. Spearfish vs. Hot Springs Jan. 9 — 7:30 p.m. Spearfish vs. Douglas Jan. 12 — 8 p.m. Spearfish vs. Belle Fourche Jan. 15 — 6:30 p.m. Spearfish vs. Pine Ridge Jan. 19 — 8 p.m. Spearfish vs. Hill City Jan. 22 — 8 p.m. Spearfish at Sturgis Jan. 26 — 7:30 p.m. Spearfish at St. Thomas More Jan. 29 — 8 p.m. Spearfish at Rapid City Central Feb. 2 — 8 p.m. Spearfish vs. Lead-Deadwood Feb. 5 — 7 p.m. Spearfish at Huron Feb. 6 — TBA Spearfish at Sioux Fall Pentagon Feb. 12 — 7:30 p.m. Spearfish at Harrisburg Feb. 16 — 7 p.m. Spearfish at Belle Fourche Feb. 18 — 7:30 p.m. Spearfish at Douglas Chet Samuelson, center, and the Spearfish Spartans are getting ready for a varsity boys’ basketball season that starts Dec. 12 with a visit to Red Cloud. Pioneer file photo

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Winter 2015/2016

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Experienced Spartans begin season

Spearfish girls’ basketball players are preparing for the season opener, set for Dec. 10 against St. Thomas More. The final few varsity spots were not finalized at the time this photo was taken. Pictured are, back row left, Breonna Beasley, Madison Kaitfors, Rickie Engesser, Ashton Burditt, Kaycee Jo Johnson; middle row left, Lauren Cermak, Brooke Heairet, Shawnda McDaniel, Jewel West, Elaina Sparrow, Anna Pochop; front row left, Madison Gould, Alexsis Kemp, Lauren Hight, Mikayla Langer, and Morgan Sandidge.

Jelsie Dean, Sydney Knutson, assistant coaches, Bryan Heck, Jen Reiners, and Jaime Bentley; and head coach Eric Lappe are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — An experienced Spearfish girls’ basketball team tipped off its season Thursday, Dec. 10, against defending state A champion St. Thomas More.

Eric Lappe returns for his fourth season as the Spartans’ head coach. The roster will feature six members who saw substantial playing time a year ago.

Five seniors are part of that lineup. They are 5-foot-1 guard Rickie Engesser, 5-6 guard Ashton Burditt, 6-0 forward Jelsie Dean, 5-7 forward Kaycee Jo Johnson, and 5-4 guard/

Burket graduated from last season’s squad.

Spearfish fell 66-60 in overtime to Huron in a Region 2AA game and finished 13-10 on the season.

“We do not have much height,” Lappe said.

“But we are a bit deeper than we have been in the past.” He looks for the Spartans to play a more up-tempo style to gain as many possessions as they can.

Lappe said the lack of height means Spearfish needs to scrap and claw, force turnovers, and rebound as a team. “We do not want to get crushed on the boards, and we EXPERIENCED SPARTANS Pg 5

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Sophomore Alexsis Kemp is a 5-foot8 guard/forward who also returns from last season’s lineup. Other varsity players as of press time include 5-11 senior forward Breonna Beasley, 5-5 junior guard Jewel West, 5-6 junior forward Shawnda McDaniel, 5-8 junior forward Sydney Knutson, 5-9 junior forward Elaina Sparrow, 5-3 sophomore guard Madison Gould, 5-6 sophomore forward Brooke Heairet, and 5-7 sophomore forward Lauren Hight.

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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EXPERIENCED SPARTANS would like to keep the margin at 10 or better,” he added.

Rebounding is what poses the biggest concern for Lappe. He said the offense would include some new wrinkles that are needed to help get the most from the team.

Returning experience is only one of the strong suits Lappe sees in this team.

“We are also quicker and better at shooting the three (than a season ago),” he said. “We may take a few more threes, and the kids really enjoy playing.”

That enjoyment also extends to Lappe, who was in his first season here when this year’s seniors were ninth-graders. “I have enjoyed coaching these seniors; they are a blast to work with,” he said.

Lappe picked St. Thomas More as the Black Hills Conference favorite. He said the Cavaliers boast one of the state’s best players in Ciara Duffy, and the season opener would serve as an early measuring stick for the Spartans.

The schedule also includes games against Rapid City Stevens, Rapid City Central, and Mitchell as well as two

games against St. Thomas More.

“It will not be easy,” Lappe said. “The kids understand the challenge at that they must be ready to go each night.”

He added the Spartans will see different styles of play.

“If you play well, you have a chance if you can make some baskets,” Lappe said. He added Lead-Deadwood, with senior Miranda Gallagher, also be quite good, with Red Cloud shooting a lot of 3-point field goals.

Spearfish should match up well against other conference teams, according to Lappe. He said Custer is athletic, Douglas boasts size, and it should be a tossup between the top five teams.

“We want to be better at the end of the season than at the beginning,” Lappe said. His hopes are for Spearfish to be competitive, win region games, and reach the ultimate goal of reaching state.

Official practices began Nov. 16.

Players spent time getting in basketball shape and working on timing.

“Losing the region game last year should give you more determination,” Lappe said. He added the returning players “broke through” during the recent volleyball season.

Lappe said Spearfish relied a lot on seniors for rebounding last year and must rely on a team concept this winter.

He added the players must also stay healthy.

Spearfish girls’ basketball schedule Dec. 10 — 7 p.m. Spearfish vs. St. Thomas More Dec. 12 — 6 p.m. Spearfish at Red Cloud Dec. 22 — 6:30 p.m. Spearfish vs. Sturgis Brown Dec. 29 — TBA Spearfish at Chadron Tournament Dec. 30 — TBA Spearfish At Chadron Tournament Jan. 2 — 6 p.m. Spearfish at Custer Jan. 5 — 6:30 p.m. Spearfish at Rapid City Stevens Jan. 8 — 6:30 p.m. Spearfish vs. Hot Springs Jan. 9 — 5 p.m. Spearfish vs. Douglas Jan. 12 — 6:30 p.m. Spearfish vs. Belle Fourche Jan. 19 — 6:30 p.m. Spearfish vs. Hill City Jan. 22 — 6:30 p.m. Spearfish at Sturgis Brown Jan. 26 — 6 p.m. Spearfish at St Thomas More Jan. 29 — 6:30 p.m. Spearfish at Rapid City Central Feb. 2 — 6:30 p.m. Spearfish vs. Lead-Deadwood Feb. 5 — 7 p.m. Spearfish vs. Huron Feb. 6 — 1:30 p.m. Spearfish vs. Mitchell Feb. 12 — 5:45 p.m. Spearfish at Harrisburg Feb. 16 — 5:30 p.m. Spearfish at Belle Fourche Feb. 18 — 6 p.m. Spearfish at Douglas

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Spearfish’s Rickie Engesser, left, shoots a layup during a varsity girls’ basketball game last season. Engesser and her teammates opened their season on Dec. 10 against defending state class A champion St. Thomas More. Pioneer file photo

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Winter 2015/2016

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Seniors ready to lead Diggers into season

Lead-Deadwood opened its varsity girls’ basketball season Dec. 11 when it hosted the Douglas Patriots. Team members are, back row left, Sydnee Hamann, Maddisen Larsen, Miranda Gallagher, Alison Engel, Ashley Sandidge; front row left, Evelyn Groeger, Jaci Petsch, Jade Derby, Hanah Cerkoney, and Hannah Rogers. Assistant coach Will Malde, assistant coach Lindsay Fearing, and head coach Zach Wevik are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

LEAD — Eight seniors will help guide the LeadDeadwood varsity girls’ basketball team that began its season Friday, Dec. 11 against Douglas.

Those seniors are 6-foot forward Miranda Gallagher, 5-7 guard Jade Derby, 5-2 guard Hanah Cerkoney, 5-6 forward Hannah Rogers, 5-6 guard Ashley Sandidge, 5-11 forward Sydnee Hamann, 6-0 forward Maddisen Larsen, and 5-6 guard Evelyn Groeger. All except Groeger saw significant playing time a season ago; Groeger was not out for the sport.

The remaining roster as of press time features two sophomores: 5-7 forward Ally Engel and 5-2 guard Jaci Petsch.

Lead-Deadwood finished 13-7 last season and dropped a 47-33 decision to Belle Fourche in a Region 8A tournament contest. Stacey Anderson and Courtney Gould graduated from that squad.

“There was real improvement from Day 1: a nightand-day difference,” Golddiggers’ head coach Zach Wevik said in recalling last season. He added defense showed the biggest improvement by far.

It is that returning experience which Wevik identified as the Golddiggers’ strong suit. He said the seniors also provide a lot of leadership.

“We need to improve in knocking down our shots and

finishing plays,” Wevik said in discussing this season. He added the team struggled in shooting a year ago.

The schedule is quite competitive, and Wevik said every team should be better than it was last season. “There are no gimmes, and that will be good for us,” he said.

Newcastle hosts the Stateline Shootout on Dec. 18-19.

Games against defending state A champion St. Thomas More (Jan. 19), Harding County (Dec. 12), Belle Fourche (Jan. 7 and Jan. 26), and Red Cloud (Jan. 28) are also included.

Wevik said St. Thomas More, Spearfish, and Belle Fourche should be among the Black Hills Conference favorites. He added the Golddiggers will be competitive with every opponent in the conference.

What will it take for the Golddiggers to have a successful 2015-16 season?

“We have to come out each day and play with a sense of urgency,” Wevik said. He also stressed the importance of daily improvement.

Practices officially began Nov. 23. Players participated in numerous shooting drills and started work on offensive and defensive concepts.

“We will try to pick up where we left off last season,” Wevik said. He added he set out his expectations, and the players now know the system.

As far as improvements go, Wevik said the defense can still improve, and it is important to do the little things. He reiterated that the team must shoot better.

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Lead-Deadwood girls’ basketball

Dec. 11 — 5:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Douglas Dec. 12 — 1 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Harding County Dec. 15 — 6 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Newell Dec. 18 — noon Lead-Deadwood at Newcastle Tournament Dec. 19 — 10 a.m. Lead-Deadwood at Newcastle Tournament Jan. 2 — 3:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Martin Jan. 5 — 5:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Sturgis Jan. 7 — 5:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Belle Fourche Jan. 11 — 7:30 Lead-Deadwood at Douglas Jan. 15 — 6 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Hill City Jan. 19 — 5:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. St. Thomas More Jan. 23 — TBA Lead-Deadwood at Hot Springs Jan. 26 — 5:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Belle Fourche Jan. 28 — 5:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Red Cloud Feb. 2 — 6:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Spearfish Feb. 4 — 5:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Philip Feb. 9 — 6 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Hot Springs Feb. 12 — 6 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Hill City Feb. 16 — 4:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Rapid City Christian Feb. 19 — 5:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Custer

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Page 7

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Young Golddiggers start season

The Lead-Deadwood High School boys’ basketball program tipped off its season Dec. 11 when it hosted Douglas. Pictured are, back row left, student manager McKayla Norton, Max Nelson, Chris Lipp, Luke Fish, Gavin Haefs, Caleb Percy, student manager Gracie Kosters; middle row left, Brett Mattson, Dylan Arehart, Jacob Alley, Zach Murray, Dillon Burns, student manager Andrea Weslocky; front row left, Ian Srstka, Alex Ulmer, Carter Nelson, and Wyatt VanDeVelde. Assistant coach Dillon Loper and head coach Jonathan Lane are not pictured.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

LEAD — A rather young Lead-Deadwood varsity boys’ basketball team looks to use last season’s experience heading into the 2014-15 campaign, which began Dec. 11 at home against Douglas.

“We improved as a program, and it was a good stepping stone,” Golddiggers’ head coach Jonathan Lane said in describing last season. “It also showed the younger kids what it takes to compete at a high level.”

Lead-Deadwood finished 12-10 last season and fell 6344 to St. Thomas More in the Region 8A championship game.

Eight seniors graduated from that squad. They were Jett Rogers, Zach Ulmer, Aidan Laurenti, Joel Fish, Cobi Stokes, Cole Gackle, Jackson Percy, and Bridger Larson.

Juniors Brett Mattson (5-foot-10 guard/forward) and Dillon Burns (5-10 forward) saw the most varsity playing time last season among players returning this year. “We’re fresh and young otherwise,” said Lane, who is beginning his second season here.

Lead-Deadwood’s varsity roster this season does not contain any seniors. The two other juniors are 5-10 forward Caleb Percy and 5-10 guard Max Nelson.

Four sophomores are also on the roster. They are 5-10 guard Zach Murray, 5-11 guard/forward Chris Lipp, 5-11

guard Jacob Alley, and 6-2 forward Gavin Haefs.

Ninth-grader Carter Nelson rounds out the varsity lineup as of press time. He is a 5-3 guard.

Lane sees the team’s youth as a strong suit and concern.

He said younger players can absorb more, but they need varsity repetitions.

“We should be able to compete like last year,” Lane said when asked about the difficulty of the Golddiggers’ schedule. Opponents include class AA Douglas (twice), class AA Sturgis (once), Belle Fourche (twice), and Spearfish (once).

Who does Lane see as the Black Hills Conference favorite? “Anything can happen, depending on the team,” he said.

Lane agreed it is about who plays better on any given night. “We will surprise people,” he said.

Every basketball coach looks for daily improvement, and for the team to play its best come tournament time.

Lane agreed with that and asked, “Do we give it our best to win?” He agreed if that happens, the wins and losses will take care of themselves.

Official practices began Nov. 30. Players spent that time getting in basketball shape.

Lane said the Golddiggers can take last season’s hard work and use that to start building a foundation for this year. He added team chemistry would be a point of emphasis.

Good Luck

Lead-Deadwood boys’ basketball schedule

Dec. 11 — 7 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Douglas Dec. 12 — 2 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Buffalo Dec. 15 — 7:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Newell Dec. 18 — 12 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Newcastle Tournament Dec. 19 — 10 a.m. Lead-Deadwood at Newcastle Tournament Jan. 5 — 7 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Sturgis Jan. 7 — 7 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Belle Fourche Jan. 9 — 6 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Custer Jan. 15 — 7:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Hill City Jan. 19 — 7 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. St. Thomas More Jan. 23 — 7:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Hot Springs Jan. 26 — 7 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Belle Fourche Jan. 28 — 7 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Red Cloud Feb. 2 — 8 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Spearfish Feb. 4 — 7 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Philip Feb. 9 — 7:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Hot Springs Feb. 12 — 7 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Hill City Feb. 16 — 7:30 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Douglas High School/ Box Elder Feb. 19 — 7 p.m. Lead-Deadwood vs. Custer Feb. 23 — 6 p.m. Lead-Deadwood at Rapid City Christian

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Winter 2015/2016

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

New coach guiding Bronc boys this season

The Belle Fourche varsity boys’ basketball squad tipped off its season Dec. 11 when it travels to Hill City. Team members are, back row left, Ryan Nelson, Jalen Powers, Bryson Westland, Jace Horman, Breck Young; front row left, Louis Budmayr, Jon Peterson, Zach Lange, and Jake O’Byrne. Assistant coach Kyle Webb, assistant coach Chad Bryant, and head coach Clay Pottorff are not pictured.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

BELLE FOURCHE — Belle Fourche brings a new head coach and new expectations into a varsity boys’ basketball season that began Dec. 11 in Hill City.

Clay Pottorff is in his first season as Broncs’ coach. He succeeds Nick Redden, who stepped down after last season to take the principal’s job at Bennett County High School in Martin.

Pottorff served as a varsity assistant at Greeley (Colo.) West High School for

two seasons. He and his wife, the former Katelynn Lamb, played basketball at Black Hills State University.

The family returned to the Black Hills because of their ties to the area, Pottorff said.

How does Pottorff describe his coaching philosophy?

“Life is much clearer than basketball, and basketball can teach life lessons,” he said. “A person can learn how to handle tough situations right.”

Belle Fourche finished 2-19 last season

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and fell to Hot Springs in a Region 8A tournament opening game. Only one senior, Wyatt Pearson, graduated from that squad.

Five seniors return for the Broncs this season. They are 5-foot-9 point guard Ryan Nelson, 6-2 guard Breck Young, 6-1 forward Jace Horman, 6-2 center Bryson Westland, and 5-11 guard/center Jalen Powers.

“We are looking to be able to lean on them,” Pottorff said in describing the seniors. He added the hope is that they will

be able to carry their football success (8-2 this fall) to the basketball court.

Pottorff said four juniors should also receive plenty of varsity time. They are 6-foot guard Jon Peterson, 5-11 guard Louis Budmayr, 6-2 center Jake O’Byrne, and 5-8 guard Zach Lange.

Flexibility and returning experience are Bronc strengths, according to Pottorff. “We have a lot of guys between 6-0 and 6-3,” he said. “They are interchangeable on defense BRONC BOYS Pg 8

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Pottorff said Belle Fourche must work on containing dribble penetration, being in the correct defensive stance, and help-side rotation on defense.

Douglas, Sturgis, Spearfish, St. Thomas More, and Red Cloud are among the teams on a Broncs’ schedule that Pottorff described as being “pretty rough.” Those opponents account for nine of Belle Fourche’s 20 regular-season games.

“We have to show up at each game,” Pottorff said. “If we do that, we have a chance to be competitive. We can’t be lazy.”

Pottorff tabs St. Thomas More as the Black Hills Conference favorite because of its tradition. He said Spearfish, coached by former BHSU standout Luke Enos, should also be in contention.

Page 9

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER Belle Fourche should match up well with everyone in the conference, according to Pottorff.

How will Pottorff and the Broncs define success this season?

“We must commit to the task at hand and work hard,” he said.

“We have to give our all; practices will be hard and demanding.”

The transition has gone quite well for Pottorff, who got to know the players during four weeks of open gym following the football season.

Defense, dribble containment, fluid movement on offense, and moving with a purpose are some of the things the Broncs have worked on during practice sessions.

Pottorff was asked what Belle Fourche can use to build on from last season. “Losing can be tough, but it makes these players hungrier to compete,” he said.

The Broncs will play up-tempo this season when appropriate, and Pottorff said they must reduce their turnover numbers.

Belle Fourche boys’ basketball schedule

Dec. 11 — 7:30 p.m. Belle Fourche at Hill City Dec. 15 — 7 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Sturgis Brown Dec. 18 — TBA Belle Fourche at Newcastle Tournament Dec. 19 — TBA Belle Fourche at Newcastle Tournament Dec. 29 — TBA Belle Fourche at Chamberlain Jan. 2 — 4 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Lemmon Jan. 7 — 7 p.m. Belle Fourche at Lead-Deadwood Jan. 9 — 4:30 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Red Cloud Jan. 12 — 8 p.m. Belle Fourche at Spearfish Jan. 15 — 7:30 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Douglas Jan. 16 — 2:30 p.m. Belle Fourche at Wright, Wyo. Jan. 22 — 7:30 p.m. Belle Fourche at Hot Springs Jan. 26 — 7 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Lead-Deadwood Jan. 29 — 8 p.m. Belle Fourche at Sturgis Feb. 2 — 7:30 p.m. Belle Fourche at St. Thomas More Feb. 5 — 6 p.m. Belle Fourche at Douglas High School, Box Elder Feb. 9 — 7 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Newell Feb. 12 — 5:30 p.m. Belle Fourche at Custer Feb. 16 — 7 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Spearfish Feb. 23 — 7:30 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. St. Thomas More The Belle Fourche varsity boys’ basketball team will work to improve on last season’s 2-19 record starting Dec. 11, when it traveled to Hill City for the season opener. Pioneer file photo

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Page 10

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Winter 2015/2016

Experience returns for Bronc girls

Belle Fourche’s varsity girls’ basketball squad began its season Dec. 11 at Hill City. Team members include, back row left, Mandee Williamson, Hannah Rehmeier, Bret Woelber, Shayla Howell, Raymie Keegan, Tera Williamson, Kortni Grubb; front row left, Alyssa Juelfs, Taylor Hanson, Jordan Hanson, Tori Anderson, Jade Burr, and Fallon Budmayr. Emily Monier, assistant coach Annie Hanson, assistant coach Scott Slotten, and head coach Bill Burr are not pictured.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

BELLE FOURCHE — Much of last season’s varsity lineup returns for the Belle Fourche varsity girls’ basketball squad that opened its season Dec. 11 at Hill City.

Ten players saw varsity time last season and return for 2014-15. Seniors are 5-foot-2 guard Tori Anderson, 5-1 guard Jordan Hanson, and 5-5 guard/forward Emily Monier. Hannah Rehmeier (5-11 center), 5-10 center Bret Woelber, and 5-4

Alyssa Juelfs represent the junior class.

Four returning sophomores are also part of the roster. They are 5-9 guard/forward Raymie Keegan, 5-4 guard Taylor Hanson, 5-1 guard Jade Burr, and 5-7 forward-center Kortni Grubb.

The varsity lineup also features four new players. Senior Tera Williamson (510 guard/center) and sophomore Mandee Williamson (5-11 center) are transfers from Newell. Sophomores Shayla Howell (5-9 forward/center) and Fallon Budmayr (5-7 forward/center) round out the roster.

“We have good height, quickness for our size, and can get up and down the floor well,” said head coach Bill Burr, who is beginning his fourth season here.

He added the lineup boasts a lot of flexibility and can go 10 players deep.

Burr said Belle Fourche must work on coming together as a team. He added communication was better last season but can always improve. “We have to always work on shooting as a team,” he said.

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BRONC GIRLS and fell to 49-26 to St. Thomas More in the Region 8A title game. Burr said Belle Fourche reached its biggest goal and improved considerably as the season progressed.

Nicole Kling, Bailee Ward, and Mikenzie Mikkelson graduated from last season’s team.

Another player from last season, Jessica Ryan, sustained a soccer season-ending injury and has not been cleared to play basketball, Burr said.

Belle Fourche’s schedule is as difficult as it was last year, Burr said. He added LeadDeadwood has great players, with Spearfish being well coached and St. Thomas More the defending state A champion. The slate also includes two games against class AA Sturgis.

St. Thomas More is Burr’s favorite for the Black Hills Conference title. He said he

Page 11

likes the Broncs’ chances against other conference teams because of the lineup flexibility. “We’re excited to get going for the season,” he added.

Burr said Belle Fourche wants to improve each game.

“The girls are working hard in practice and want to take things one game at a time,” he added.

Official practice sessions began Nov. 23. Players worked extensively on defense, shooting, footwork, and fundamentals.

Burr was asked what the Broncs can use from the past to build on for this season.

“Sometimes you must learn to win and believe in yourselves,” Burr said. He added this began last season with victories over Lemmon and LeadDeadwood.

Communication and shooting are the biggest improvements Belle Fourche must continue to make, Burr said. He agreed the communication would be a constant point of emphasis.

Belle Fourche girls’ basketball schedule

Dec. 11 — 5:30 p.m. Belle Fourche at Hill City Dec. 15 — 5:30 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Sturgis Brown Dec. 18 — TBA Belle Fourche at Newcastle Tournament Dec. 19 — TBA Belle Fourche at Newcastle Tournament Dec. 29 — 3:30 p.m. CT Belle Fourche at Brookings-Swiftel Jan. 2 — 2:30 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Lemmon Jan. 7 — 5:30 p.m. Belle Fourche at Lead-Deadwood Jan. 9 — 3 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Red Cloud Jan. 12 — 6:30 p.m. Belle Fourche at Spearfish Jan. 16 — 4 p.m. Belle Fourche at Wright, Wyo. Jan. 19 — 7:30 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Douglas Jan. 22 — 6 p.m. Belle Fourche at Hot Springs Jan. 26 — 5:30 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Lead-Deadwood Jan. 29 — 6:30 p.m. Belle Fourche at Sturgis Feb. 2 — 6 p.m. Belle Fourche at St. Thomas More Feb. 5 — 7:30 p.m. Belle Fourche at Douglas Feb. 9 — 5:30 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Newell Feb. 12 — 4 p.m. Belle Fourche at Custer Feb. 16 — 5:30 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. Spearfish Feb. 18 — 7:30 p.m. Belle Fourche vs. St. Thomas More

Bret Woelber, center, and the Belle Fourche varsity girls’ basketball team will travel to Hill City to start the season on Dec. 11. Pioneer file photo

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Winter 2015/2016

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Lady Jackets take the court

The Black Hills State University women’s basketball team features, back row left, head coach Mark Nore, assistant coach Ryan Davis, Jennie Scharn, Kassidy Scott, Brooke Pond, Cheyanne Balster, Dylan Wright, Sierra Toms, Rachel Erickson, Keely Bertram, graduate assistant coach Taylor Cummings; front row left, Remi Wientjes, Christine Thorn, Gabby Haefs, Bailey Kusser, Taylor Trohkimoinen, Erin Kemp, and Julia Seamans. Photo courtesy of BHSU Athletics

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — Black Hills State University women’s basketball program will see changes in rules and senior leadership.

Starting with some rules changes, the format will be four 10-minute quarters instead of the traditional 20-minute halves.

Fouls reset after each quarter, with the fifth team foul of each quarter resulting

in two free throws. This means there will be no more one-and-one free throw situations.

Nore said he likes the rule changes. “They will allow for more freedom of play, and a better chance for the kids to get into the flow of the game,” he added.

Other changes have to do with the Black Hills State roster, as five seniors from last season have graduated:

Dakota Barrie, Chelsey Biegler, Logan Cowan, Cassidy Kotelman, and Courtney Patterson.

The Yellow Jackets finished 13-9 in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference last season, 15-12 overall.

Black Hills State took the number 5 seed into the conference tournament and fell

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to Colorado State-Pueblo 62-57 in the first round.

Head coach Mark Nore returns for his 13th full season. Returning players for this season include senior Bailey Kusser (5-foot-9 guard) and junior Taylor Trohkimoinen (6-0 guard). Nore said they have big roles, but others’ roles have not been firmly established.

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WOMEN’S BB (5-10 junior forward), Cheyanne Balster (6-1 junior forward), Sierra Toms (6-1 junior forward), Rachel Erickson (5-10 sophomore guard), Remi Wientjes (5-10 sophomore guard), and Jennie Scharn (5-11 sophomore forward).

“We have kids who will compete and have a will to win,” Nore said in discussing his team’s strengths. He added the biggest concerns are experience, and players understanding their roles.

Nore sees Colorado Mesa and UCColorado Springs as the conference favorites. He said Colorado StatePueblo and Fort Lewis also have a lot of talent.

“The key is to make sure we’re consistent on defense, especially early in the season,” he said. “We can guard anyone; it’s a matter of finding a way to score.”

Nore said daily improvement

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Page 13

would define success for the Yellow Jackets. He also looks for the players to train outside their comfort level.

Practices began the week of Oct. 15. The team has worked on establishing its culture, individual roles, defensive philosophy, and offensive concepts.

“We’re learning things little by little,” Nore said. “It’s a process, not an event.”

Part of that culture includes qualifying for the postseason play. “We’ve made the tournament each year we’ve been in the RMAC,” Nore said. “Hopefully, we have expectations and will follow through on them.”

The top eight teams qualify for the RMAC postseason tournament. Black Hills State finished eighth in 201213, sixth in 2013-14, and fifth last season.

Nore said he would like to see consistency from the Yellow Jackets this season. He added players can always do the little things right.

BHSU womens’ basketball schedule

Dec. 11 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU at Chadron State Dec. 12 — 3:30 p.m. BHSU at Regis (Colo.)

Dec. 18 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU vs. New Mexico Highlands Dec. 19 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU vs. Western New Mexico Jan. 1 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU at Westminster (Utah) Jan. 2 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU at Colorado Mesa Jan. 8 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU vs. Regis (Colo.)

Jan. 9 — 4 p.m. BHSU vs. Chadron State Jan. 15 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU at Western State Colorado Jan. 16 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU at Colorado State- Pueblo Jan. 22 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU vs. MSU Denver Jan. 23 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU vs. University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Jan. 29 — 5 p.m. BHSU at Colorado Christian Jan. 30 — 5 p.m. BHSU at Colorado Mine Feb. 5 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU vs. Adams State Feb. 6 — 4 p.m. BHSU vs. Fort Lewis Feb. 12 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU vs. Colorado Mesa Feb. 13 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU vs. Westminster (Utah) Feb. 19 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU at University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Feb. 20 — 5 p.m. BHSU at MSU Denver Feb. 24 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU at South Dakota Mines at Rapid City Civic Center Black Hills State University’s Cheyanne Balster, center, shoots over two defenders during a women’s basketball game earlier this season. Pioneer file photo

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Page 14

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Winter 2015/2016

Yellow Jacket men starting season

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — A young Black Hills State University men’s basketball team takes to the floor this season.

This year’s lineup features four returning players who saw extensive playing time last season. Seniors are 6-foot-3 guard Nick Ongarato, 5-10 guard Tate Hilgenkamp, and 6-5 guard/forward Riley Ryan. The other returnee is redshirt sophomore Wyatt Krogman: a 5-8 guard.

Second-year head coach Jeff Trumbauer said he is looking for contributions from several others.

He cited 6-9 sophomore center Sam Mayer, 6-6 freshman guard Fraser Malcolm, 6-3 freshman guard Erlendur Stefansson, 6-3 freshman guard Patrick Mendes, and 6-9 junior center Max Mueller.

“We have improved in many areas,” Trumbauer said when asked

about the Yellow Jackets’ strong suits. “We are more athletic, longer, and bigger.”

Trumbauer said the team has developed depth, and he is comfortable with using eight to 10 players.

Black Hills State finished 8-14 in the RMAC last season, 10-19 overall. The Yellow Jackets placed ninth and missed a spot in the postseason tournament by one spot.

Three players from last season’s team have graduated: Brody Brisk, Yoshio Allen, and Brady Bisgaard.

“The focus will be on daily improvement,” Trumbauer said. “If we do that, the wins and losses will take care of themselves.” He added the Yellow Jackets would not peak in November or December.

Practice sessions officially began the week of Oct. 15. Emphasis points included offensive and defensive concepts, and Trumbauer said players must compete instinctively.

“We’re trying to keep the basic things in mind,” Trumbauer said.

“We have to play confident and hard, and execute.”

Although the roster had a lot of turnover, Trumbauer sees some things the Yellow Jackets can use from last year to begin building a foundation for this season.

“The returning players know JACKET MEN Pg 15

BHSU men’s basketball schedule

Dec. 11 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU at Chadron State Dec. 12 — 5:30 p.m. BHSU at Regis (Colo.)

Dec. 18 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU vs. New Mexico Highlands Dec. 19 — 6 p.m. BHSU vs. Western New Mexico Jan. 1 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU at Westminster (Utah) Jan. 2 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU at Colorado Mesa Jan. 8 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU vs. Regis (Colo.)

Jan. 9 — 6 p.m. BHSU vs. Chadron State Jan. 15 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU at Western State Colorado Jan. 16 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU at Colorado State- Pueblo Jan. 22 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU vs. MSU Denver Jan. 23 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU vs. University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Jan. 29 — 7 p.m. BHSU at Colorado Christian Jan. 30 — 7 p.m. BHSU at Colorado Mines Feb. 5 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU vs. Adams State Feb. 6 — 6 p.m. BHSU vs. Fort Lewis Feb. 12 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU vs. Colorado Mesa Feb. 13 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU vs. Westminster (Utah) Feb. 19 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU at University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Feb. 24 — 7:30 p.m. BHSU at South Dakota Mines at Rapid City Civic Center

Winter 2015/2016

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Page 15

The Black Hills State University men’s basketball team features, back row left, student assistant coach Thomas Bush, graduate assistant coach Brady Cameron, Riley Ryan, Fraser Malcolm, Oskar Dieterich, Sam Mayer, Max Mueller, Collin Smith, Joe Cameron, assistant coach Ryan Thompson, head coach Jeff Trumbauer; front row left, student assistant coach James Knutson, Nick Ongarato, Patrick Mendes, Tyler Oliver, Tate Hilgenkamp, Zach Ulmer, Sam McCloud, Jonas Anderson, Erlendur Stefansson, Colin May, Wyatt Krogman, and Aaron Siekmann. Photo courtesy of BHSU Athletics

from Pg 14

JACKET MEN how hard it is to win here, and how hard they have to play,” Trumbauer said in describing the RMAC. Black Hills State played seven overtime games last season, winning four. A total of eight games were decided by one possession.

“We have to focus on each posses-

sion,” Trumbauer said. “We need to not get caught up in the moment, but keep our poise and take care of things.”

Trumbauer said he would like to see the Yellow Jackets rebound better this season. He added the team was outrebounded by four to five rebounds a game last season.

“We also need to play better defense, hold the other team to one shot, and be more efficient on offense,” Trumbauer said.

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How about the 22-game Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference schedule?

“Everyone we play will pose a threat,” Trumbauer said of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference schedule. He added each of the 16 teams boasts very talented players.

The conference is split into a pair of eight-team divisions for men’s and women’s basketball. Black Hills State is in the Rocky Division along with UC-Colorado Springs, Chadron State, Colorado Mesa,

Metro State-Denver, Regis, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, and Westminster (Utah).

Adams State, Colorado Christian, Colorado Mines, Colorado State-Pueblo, Fort Lewis, New Mexico Highlands, Western New Mexico, and Western State Colorado comprise the Mountain Division.

The RMAC race should be wide open this season, according to Trumbauer. “I think we’ll hold our own,” he said.

Page 16

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Winter 2015/2016

2015/2016 Spearfish cheerleaders

Spearfish’s cheerleading squad for this winter features, from left, Coach Pam Waterson, Abby Rabenberg, Hannah Dunn, Lauren Sparrow, Saidee Short, Savannah Sewell, Cheyenne Borbely, and Sierra Zoll. Courtesy photo

Winter 2015/2016

Page 17

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

2015/2016 Lead-Deadwood cheerleaders

Members of the Lead-Deadwood cheerleading squad for this winter include, back row left, Kaitlyn Meade, Eric Schumacher, Jordan Wetz, Kaitlynn Zellers; third row left, Christian Burmeister, Leeara Porter, Tajarah Jackson, Angelica Jones; second row left, Isabella Jones, Alexis Kohler, Shari Croft, Ashtynn Gibson, Israel Burmeister; front row left, Paige Price, Kyra Mack, Katerina Marlow, and Brianna Tish. Grace Jacobs, advisor Wendy Rogers, and advisor Samantha Rogers are not pictured.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

2015/2016 Belle Fourche cheerleaders

Belle Fourche’s cheerleading squad for this winter includes, back row left, Monique Ramirez, Destanie Miranda, Mariana Meza; front row left, Kennedy Ager, Tessa Kauffman, and Lindsay Dommer. Alexis Martinez and advisor Denise Horman are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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Winter 2015/2016

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spearfish wrestlers ready for season

Spearfish’s wrestling team is preparing for the 2015-16 campaign and returns a lot of experience. Head coach Mike Abell agreed many athletes have the potential to reach the varsity lineup at some point this season. Pictured are, back row left, Keegan Brunssen, Tyler Kaiser, Tyler Waterson, Sean Warnock, Zeph Irion, Jeremiah Harmon, Austin Amick, Marc Williams, Zailin Irion, Slayton Ludens; middle row left, Alex Prillwitz, Rylan Nunez-Murray, Kyler Clark, Kadin Gifford, Wesley Dodd, Zach Thoresen, Derick Dower, Jacob Zacher, Reese Hansen, John Trimble, Jarron Rowe, Jordon Brinson; front row left, Montiko Torres, Max Nickles, Scott Valentine, David Zacher, Noah Ryan, Matt Ackerman, and Tashon Clark. Head coach Mike Abell, assistant coach Chase Tyson, assistant coach Joel Martin, assistant coach Cody Powers, assistant coach Chase Harmon, assistant coach PT Thomas, and assistant coach Sean Bice are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross SPEARFISH — Spearfish wrestlers are ready for a new season.

Mike Abell returns for his eighth season as Spartans’ head coach. The Spearfish roster includes 10 wrestlers from a team that placed sixth at last season’s state A tournament.

Rance Sivertsen, Damian Hall, Chase Harmon, Parker Sutton, Oscar Franck, and Mason Rogers graduated from last season’s team. Sivertsen earned the state championship at 132 pounds.

Abell said the Spartans had a good season but higher expectations. He added

Spearfish thought it should have finished fourth or higher at state instead of sixth.

“It gave us a little drive for this year,” Abell said of that finish. “We have a good group returning, and they have high expectations to get up there pretty high.”

Returning seniors are Jeremiah Harmon, Slayton Ludens, Sean Warnock, Zeph Irion, Tyler Kaiser, and Austin Amick. Harmon earned third place in the 285-pound division at last season’s state A tournament, with Ludens placing fourth at 113. Kaiser (145 pounds), Irion (152), and Amick (195) qualified for state.

Tyler Waterson, Jacob Zacher, and Zailin Irion are returning juniors.

Waterson earned runner-up honors at 120 pounds a season ago; Zacher qualified for state at 126.

Ninth-grader Derick Dower returns one season after qualifying for state at 106 pounds.

Abell said promising newcomers include sophomore Matt Ackerman, ninth-grader Rylan Nunez-Murray, and ninth-grader Jordon Brinson. Twenty-nine SPEARFISH WRESTLERS Pg 19

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SPEARFISH WRESTLERS athletes attended Monday’s practice; Abell agreed all have the potential to reach the varsity at some point this season.

“We have a lot of seniors, so the leadership’s going to be key,” Abell said of Spearfish’s strong suit. He added the wrestling room is largely self-maintained and self-maintained, and he is excited for the season.

Abell said the Spartans start slowly with cardiovascular fitness for the first couple of weeks. He added the team is a bit out of shape at that time to test the wrestlers’ hearts.

“Throughout the season, we’re going to always have to work on our conditioning, touching up technique,” Abell said. He added Spearfish stumbled a bit at last season’s region and state tournaments because some athletes lost a bit of focus.

Abell said the Spartans’ schedule is among the state’s most difficult. That slate includes the Rapid City Invitational, Brookings Invitational, Chadron Tournament, Lyman

Page 19

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER County Tournament, and Rumble on the Red (Fargo).

Spearfish won the Black Hills Conference title last season. A Feb. 13 tournament in Box Elder will decide the issue this season; dual records did so a season ago.

Abell said Douglas, Custer, Hot Springs, and Spearfish should be in the mix for conference honors this season.

Another Spearfish goal is a top-two finish in the Region 4A tournament. The Spartans finished third in this event last season, only one-half point behind Sturgis. Spearfish has never earned a top-two region plaque during Abell’s time here as head coach.

“Our work ethic is going to push our success rate,” Abell said when asked about requirements for a successful season besides daily improvement. He added it is also important for the team to stick together.

Practices officially started Nov. 16.

Athletes worked on some conditioning, more technique, plus a lot of drills in body movement.

“We know we can’t relax for a moment,” Abell said. He added it is important for the team to finish tournaments and for individual members to pick up one another after a poor match.

Two Spearfish wrestlers participate in a drill during earlier this season.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

Spearfish wrestling schedule

Dec. 11 — 2 p.m. Rapid City Invitational at Rapid City Civic Center Dec. 12 — 9 a.m. Rapid City Invitational at Rapid City Civic Center Dec. 17 — 7 p.m. Rapid City Central at Rapid City Central Dec. 19 — 10 a.m. Madison Tournament at Madison High School Dec. 29 — 10 a.m. Rumble on the Red at Fargo, N.D. Dec. 30 — 9 a.m. Rumble on the Red at Fargo, N.D. Jan. 7 — 4 p.m. Spearfish Quad at Spearfish Jan. 8 — 10 a.m. Lyman County Tournament at Presho Jan. 9 — 10 a.m. Lyman County Tournament at Presho Jan. 14 — 7 p.m. Spearfish Dual at Spearfish Jan. 22 — 11 a.m. Chadron Tournament at Chadron High School Jan 23 — 9 a.m. Chadron Tournament at Chadron High School Jan. 28 — 5:30 p.m. Moorcroft Dual at Moorcroft High School Jan. 29 — 1 p.m. Belle Fourche Tournament at Belle Fourche Jan. 30 — 9 a.m. Brookings Invitational at Brookings High School Feb. 24 — 7:30 p.m. Sturgis Brown Dual at Sturgis Brown High School Feb. 13 — 9 a.m. Douglas Tournament at Douglas High School Jeremiah Harmon and the Spearfish wrestling team have started to embark on a very difficult schedule that includes the Rapid City Invitational on Dec. 11 and 12. Pioneer file photo

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Winter 2015/2016

L-D wrestling program is rebuilding

The Lead-Deadwood wrestling program features nine high school-age athletes and several others who will join the team when the middle school season ends. Members include, back row left, assistant coach Joe Barrett, Tyler Rohn, Nik Scott, Coltan Radensleben, Dylin Johnson, Brigham Williams, Wyatt Hess, Trinity Brady, Pratt Williams, Robbie Lester, head coach Beau Voegeli; middle row left, Gage Mau, Domenic Lucero, Alex Kruske, Carson Pinske, Max Johnson, Dawson Janke; front row left, Joey Ingham, Bailey Norton, and Charlie Hannel. Nathan Chipman is not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

LEAD — The rebuilding process continues for a Lead-Deadwood wrestling program in its third season since being reintroduced.

Beau Voegeli returns for his second season as Golddiggers’ head coach. Lead-Deadwood opened Dec. 5 at the Custer Invitational.

Voegeli talked about the 2014-15 season in glowing terms.

“We qualified two wrestlers for

state, and five of them doubled their win totals,” he said. Lead-Deadwood accomplished that without any returning starters from the previous season.

Alex Kruske and Bailey Norton represented the Golddiggers at last season’s state B tournament. Both athletes return this season along with Dylin Johnson, who won more than 30 matches; Norton finished with 32 wins.

Norton is a senior and captain; Johnson and Kruske are sophomores. Other team members include juniors Coltan Radensleben and Nik Scott; sophomores Brigham Williams, Nathan Chipman, and Wyatt Hess; and ninth-graders Carson Pinske and Trinity Brady.

Voegeli said 10 others wrestlers will join the high

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school team when their middle school season ends.

Lower numbers pose pros and cons for Voegeli.

“The only con is that it will be tough for us to win duals,” Voegeli said. “On the other hand, we can truly focus on character building. I can also give more attention for the group each day.”

Morning workouts and hard work serve as strong suits for the Golddiggers, according to Voegeli. He said Hess and Brady are helping in terms of character.

Voegeli anticipates Johnson and Norton will be able to compete with anyone they face this season.

“We need to work on getting to the next level,” L-D WRESTLING Pg 21

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Page 21

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER from Pg 20

L-D WRESTLING Voegeli said of improvements to be made as a team. “We have to take advantage of each opportunity we have.”

The Golddiggers’ schedule is balanced, in Voegeli’s view.

He points to being able to see Spearfish, Rapid City Central, and other teams on a regular basis.

Lead-Deadwood hosted one event in 2014-15; that number goes to two this season. The Golddiggers will host a dual on Jan. 12 and a tournament on Jan. 21.

“We have worked hard to get more home meets, because the kids deserve it,” Voegeli said.

Lead-Deadwood will also compete in the Black Hills Conference tournament, set for Feb. 13 in Box Elder. Voegeli said Norton and

Johnson have a chance to reach the finals because of their work ethic.

Golddiggers’ success for this season will begin from a focus on character inside and outside the wrestling room, Voegeli said. He added that hard work also has a prominent place in the equation.

Official practices began Nov. 16, with athletes focusing on movement rather than having a lot of moves. Voegeli agreed it is a matter of executing a few moves well, rather than having many moves that may not be executed as well.

“We are moving at a great and realistic pace,” Voegeli said of the program’s growth. He added the middle school program currently boasts 20 members.

Voegeli said the expectation for this season is doubling the number of athletes who qualify for the state B tournament, set for Feb. 26-27 in Rapid City. He added other athletes must also step up.

Lead-Deadwood’s Dylin Johnson, right, looks for a scoring opportunity against a Spearfish opponent during a match last season. He earned more than 30 victories and looks to improve on that total this year. Pioneer file photo

Lead-Deadwood wrestling schedule Dec. 11 — 2 p.m. Rapid City Tournament at Rapid City Dec. 12 — 9 a.m. Rapid City Tournament at Rapid City Dec. 17 — 4 p.m. Belle Triangular at Belle Fourche Dec.18 — Noon Hot Springs Tournament at Hot Springs Dec. 19 — 10 a.m. Hot Springs Tournament at Hot Springs Jan. 8 — Noon CT. Lyman Invite at Presho Jan. 9 — 9 a.m. CT Lyman Invite at Presho Jan. 12 — 5 p.m. L-D Dual at Lead-Deadwood Jan. 16 — 9 a.m. Newcastle Tournament at Newcastle Jan. 21 — 4 p.m. Lead- Deadwood Invite at Lead-Deadwood Jan. 29 — 1 p.m. Belle Fourche Invite at Belle Fourche Jan. 30 — 9 a.m. Belle Fourche Invite at Belle Fourche Feb. 6 — 9:30 a.m. Hill City Tournament at Hill City Feb. 11 — 5 p.m. St. Thomas More Triangular at St. Thomas More Feb. 13 — TBA BH Conference at Douglas High School/Box Elder Feb. 20 — TBA Regions at Belle Fourche Feb. 26 — TBA State Wrestling at Rapid City Feb. 27 — TBA State Wrestling at Rapid City

Bailey Norton of Lead-Deadwood sends Hot Springs’ Wyatt Pulscher to the mat during a varsity wrestling dual last season. Pioneer file photo

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Page 22

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Winter 2015/2016

Hard-working Bronc wrestlers begin season Belle Fourche’s wrestlers have started a season that they hope will end at the state A tournament in Rapid City.

Members include, back row left, Tel Montgomery, Tate Gatzke, Corey Hockenbary, Bailey Lawrence, Jesse Thybo, Blake Stewart, Jaredon Dosch, Michael Street; front row left, Joe Hanson, Brody Stewart, Kelly Montgomery, Cody Tupper, Tevin Gomez, Kory Gabert, and Trinity Tippmann. Head coach Bill Abell and assistant coach Josh Schleusner are not pictured.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

BELLE FOURCHE — Third-year Broncs’ head coach Bill Abell shouts out instructions and gives encouragement to Belle Fourche wrestlers during a recent practice.

Abell said following the

practice that last season’s squad was the hardest-working group he has ever coached. This may follow suit this winter, as no one graduated from that team.

“We don’t have a lot of guys,” Abell said. “But the guys I’m bringing back are showing promise and are working.”

Belle Fourche’s roster as of press time features six seniors, three juniors, two sophomores, three ninth-graders, and one eighth-grader. Two of the seniors — Cody Tupper and Tevin Gomez — qualified for last season’s

WRANGLE UP A WIN! Go Broncs!

605-892-4773 • 500 State Street, Belle Fourche

state A tournament at 113 pounds and 160 pounds, respectively.

Other seniors are Brody Stewart, Kelly Montgomery, Kory Gabert, and Trinity Tippmann. Corey Hockenbary, Bailey Lawrence, and Tate Gatzke represent the junior class. Montgomery, Gabert, Hockenbary, Lawrence, and Gatzke are among the wrestlers who competed on the varsity last season.

The sophomore representation features Tel BRONC WRESTLERS Pg 23

Winter 2015/2016

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER from Pg 22

BRONC WRESTLERS

Belle Fourche’s Tevin Gomez works to pin an opponent during a varsity wrestling match last season.

Pioneer file photo

Belle Fourche wrestling schedule

Dec. 11 — 2 p.m. Rapid City Invitational at Rapid City Dec. 12 — 9 a.m. Rapid City Invitational at Rapid City Dec. 17 — 5 p.m. Custer/ Lead-Deadwood Triangular at Belle Fourche Dec. 18 — 1:30 p.m. Dickinson Invitational at Dickinson, N.D. Dec. 19 — 9 a.m. Dickinson Invitational at Dickinson, N.D. Jan. 7 — 4 p.m. Hill City/ St. Thomas More/ Spearfish Quadrangular at Spearfish Jan. 8 — 11 a.m. Lyman County at Presho Jan. 9 — 10 a.m. Lyman County at Presho Jan. 15 — 2 p.m. Philip Invitational at Philip Jan. 16 — 9 a.m. Philip Invitational at Philip Jan. 21 — 5 p.m. Douglas/ Hill City/Red Cloud BHS Quadrangular at Douglas Jan. 23 — 10 a.m. Chamberlin Invitational at Chamberlin Jan. 28 — 6 p.m. Hot Springs Dual at Belle Fourche Jan. 29 — 1 p.m. Belle Fourche Invitational at Belle Fourche Jan. 30 — 9 a.m. Belle Fourche Invitational at Belle Fourche Feb. 6 — 9:30 a.m. Hill city Invitational at Hill City Feb. 13 — 9 a.m. BHC Invitational at Douglas Feb. 20 — 10 a.m. 4A Regions at Spearfish Feb. 26 — TBA State A at Rapid City Feb. 27 — TBA State A at Rapid City

Good Luck Diggers on a Winning Season!

Montgomery and Blake Stewart.

Montgomery competed on the varsity a season ago.

Joe Hanson, Jesse Thybo, and Jaredon Dosch are ninth-graders. Dosch and Thybo wrestled on the Broncs’ varsity last season; Hanson is a transfer from Newell.

Abell said the Broncs peaked early last season, and the three state qualifiers (Gomez, Tupper, and Tucker Chytka) did not finish where they wanted. Chytka is a senior who is questionable for this season because of a knee injury, according to Abell.

“For me, it’s been a long couple of months to get ready for this,” Abell said. He added he takes all of the blame for last season’s early peaking.

That sentiment is clear when Abell talks about the biggest improvements the Broncs must make from last season. “It’s more on me than it is them,” he said.

“They give me whatever I’ve asked of them.”

Technique and confidence are

Page 23 what Abell said the Broncs must work on this season. He added the team is relatively green when it comes to the region tournament.

“I like our team’s schedule,” Abell said. It also includes tournaments in Custer and Rapid City; the Broncs will also compete at next month’s Chamberlain Invitational.

The Black Hills Conference title will come down to a one-day tournament, set for Feb. 13 in Box Elder. “It’s going to be hard to beat Spearfish,” Abell said.

“He (Spearfish head coach Mike Abell) has a bunch of seniors that have been with him since they were little kids.”

Abell said Belle Fourche should be fine against other conference squads. He added he does not see the Broncs getting too rattled.

Official practice sessions started Nov. 16, with some morning sessions devoted to conditioning.

Afternoon practices centered on technique.

Daily improvement, and performing the best at region and state tournament time, are what every coach seeks for their team.

Abell said Belle Fourche would also like to earn a tournament title and qualify athletes for state.

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Winter 2015/2016

BHSU set for indoor track season

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — Black Hills State University began its indoor track and field season Dec. 5, at the Yellow Jacket Holiday Open.

Fifth-year head coach Seth Mischke listed five key returning athletes for the men’s team, and five for the women’s team.

Men’s athletes are senior Alec Baldwin (distance), sophomore Bryce Boser (pole vault), sophomore Ryan Mehalick (pole vault and sprints), sophomore Chris Johnson (middle distance), and sophomore-junior Mark Fruechte (sprints).

Returning athletes on the women’s team include senior Madison McLaughlin (throwing events), senior Avery Allen (throwing events), senior Kristin Rath (sprinting events and hurdles), junior Courtney Cassen (pole vault), and sophomore Kaitlyn Hadley (jumping events and sprints).

“We have quite a few new faces,” said Mischke, who is beginning his fifth year as the Yellow Jackets’ indoor track coach. “It is a fairly young squad, but we have quality kids.”

Mitch Kraft, Baker Diede, Courtney Chase, and Trisha Koch were among the seniors graduating from last year’s indoor teams.

“This year, we’re as well-rounded as we’ve been,” Mischke said. “We’re deeper, and our numbers are up a lot. We have to find a way to get it done.”

Mischke said the last four years have seen a slow buildup as the teams work to establish depth. He added the teams gradually add pieces, and the goal is to maintain depth and develop athletes.

“The biggest part is to get kids in competition, help them understand the level, and educate them on the conference,” Mischke said. He also stressed the importance of im-

proving in weaker areas.

“We’re anxious to see where we are,” Mischke said when asked about the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference race. He agreed the situation is uncertain, but teams should learn a lot after the first competitive weekend.

“There are so many events and variables,” Mischke said in describing the uncertainty.

“Track has many ebbs and flows as opposed to other sports.” He added many other teams lost key seniors to graduation.

Adams State, Western State Colorado, and Colorado Mines should contend for top honors, according to Mischke. He said teams like those would reload instead of rebuild.

Mischke’s blueprint for success has not changed from the beginning. Aspects include daily improvement, and equaling or surpassing last season’s conference meet finishes.

Black Hills State (32 points) finished sixth in the men’s division of last season’s RMAC Championships. The Yellow Jacket women collected 23 points for ninth place; McLaughlin earned the women’s shot put title.

Chadron State will host this season’s RMAC Championships on Feb. 26 and 27.

“We’ve hade a great deal of energy this fall because of the higher numbers,” Mischke said. “The kids are working hard and challenging one another.”

Mischke said everyone is currently getting the most out of the athletes and program now. He added the aim is to get more athletes competing at a high level, and for them to be here for the right reasons including passion and a love for the sport.

Consistency is what Mischke and Black Hills State always strive for.

“There are so many different moving pieces,” Mischke said in describing a track team. “To have everyone hitting exactly on one day is very, very difficult.”

Mischke said it’s also important for athletes to pay attention to their bodies and stay healthy.

Black Hills State has a total of four home meets during the indoor season. The others are Jan. 15 (Myrle Hanson Memorial Open), Jan. 23 (Dave Little Alumni Mile), and Feb. 20 (Stinger Open).

Black Hills State University’s Atlanta Lundstrom competes in the women’s shot put during an indoor track meet last season. Pioneer file photo

BHSU indoor track and field schedule Jan. 15 — BHSU hosts Myrle Hanson Memorial Open Jan. 16 — BHSU at Stadium Sports Grill High School Classic Jan. 23 — BHSU hosts Dave Little Alumni Mile Jan 29 — BHSU at Chadron State College Twilight Feb. 5 — BHSU at Birds and Bees Invite at Gillette, Wyo Feb. 6 — BHSU at Birds and Bee Invite at Gillett, Wyo Feb. 12 — BHSU at Jackrabbit Classic at Brookings Feb. 13 — BHSU at Jackrabbit Classic at Brookings Feb. 20 — BHSU Stinger Open Feb. 26 — BHSU at RMAC Indoor Championships at Chadron Feb. 27 — BHSU at RMAC Indoor Championships at Chadron March 11 — BHSU NCAA DII Indoor Championships at Pittsburg, Kan. March 12 — BHSU NCAA DII Indoor Championships at Pittsburg, Kan.

Black Hills State University’s Chandra Sturtz tries to go over the bar in the women’s pole vault event during a recent meet.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross