2020 Fall Sports Preview

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Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER EDITOR’S NOTE:

The schedules listed were provided by the South Dakota High School Activities Association. Some opponents and locations have already changed or been canceled, and more will likely change throughout the season as schools grapple with COVID-19 exposures and confirmed cases. However, not all changes have been made by the association. To receive updates on schedules, visit www.sdhsaa.com.

Spearfish volleyball team eagerly anticipates season

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — Spearfish’s varsity volleyball looks to bring a solid hitting and blocking squad into a season that starts this coming weekend at Brandon Valley.

Spartans’ head coach Christine Skoglund listed hitting and blocking as team strengths for this season. She is in her second season as coach of the squad.

“We have such tall players this year,” she said. “I feel like last year, we really grew within our hitters.”

Another strength includes a different mindset from last season, according to Skoglund. She said the team now feels like it will win the really close matches.

Senior middle hitter Halle Rogers, junior middle hitter Karstin DuPont, and sophomore setter Lily McCarty are a few of the key players returning for Spearfish.

Skoglund said DuPont and Rogers have progressed in their ability to hit aggressively. She added McCarty has considerably improved in setting.

Other seniors on the varsity roster are defensive specialists Rachel Woods and Sydney Gusso; defensive specialist-setter Grace Karp; and outside-right side hitters Maddi Doren and Erin Rotert.

Four other players represent the junior class: outside hitters Stella Marcus

and Dylan Reman, right-side hitter KyleeJo Symonds, and setter-defensive specialist Justine Mitchell.

Defensive specialist Tayler Duncan is a sophomore. Middle-outside hitter Maria Bouman represents the ninthgrade class.

Areas needing work include the defense, which the Spartans are changing. Skoglund said it is simpler, which should allow team members to play instead of having to think about where they must be all the time.

Team members participated in a recent camp where players learned about specific aspects. They included eye work, and Skoglund said volleyball is a visual sport.

“Our schedule is probably going to be more fluid,” Skoglund said of a COVID-19 impact. The first two matches are at Brandon Valley and Brookings, rather than a Mitchell dual and the canceled Huron Tournament.

Skoglund said Spearfish has a great schedule featuring a lot of different offenses and defenses.

Spearfish is scheduled to host Red Cloud in its home opener Sept. 1. That is the first of seven home matches, with the final being Nov. 3 against Douglas to close the regular season.

In assessing the Black Hills

Conference race, Skoglund said, “I think it’s really a toss-up this year. We’re all at pretty even playing fields, and all of our teams have a lot of experience.”

Skoglund said Spearfish has a good chance against any conference team.

She pointed to that returning experience and reiterated the squad’s height.

“The biggest thing from last year is our mindset,” Skoglund said in defining success for this season. “Last year, we lost a lot of close matches that we could have won.”

Skoglund said the team must have confidence at the end of close matches, and key on its defense. She cited eye work and defense as definitions of success.

“If our girls can be better readers of the other team, then our defense is just going to become that much better,” Skoglund said.

Players had two days of tryouts and focused on fundamentals following that Aug. 13 start. Teamwork and visual work were also included.

Spearfish finished 6-26 during the 2019 season and did not qualify for the Class AA SoDak 16 event. Ellie Greger, Emmy Moore, Ella Murray, Ashtyn Reiners, and Lyric Williams graduated from that squad.

SPEARFISH volleyball schedule Aug. 28, 6 p.m. ......... at Mitchell High School

(Brandon Valley)

Aug. 29,............. at Huron Arena Tournament 9 a.m. ..................................................... Huron 11 a.m. ...................................Brandon Valley Sept. 1, 7 p.m. .................... hosting Red Cloud Sept. 4, 4 p.m. ............................... at Aberdeen Sept. 10, 7 p.m. ............................... at Hill City Sept. 22, 7 p.m. ..................................at Sturgis Sept. 29, 7 p.m. ...... hosting St. Thomas More Oct. 6, 7 p.m. ............................hosting Sturgis Oct. 13, 7 p.m. .......................at Belle Fourche Oct. 17, 2 p.m. .................................... at Pierre Oct. 23, 4 p.m. ............................ at Sturgis HS

(Yankton)

Oct. 23, TBA .............hosting Brandon Valley Oct. 27, 7 p.m. ............................at RC Central

Spearfish volleyball players are conducting training sessions and getting ready for the 2020 season. Pictured back row from left: Samantha Allred, Maria Bouman, Dylan Reman, Halle Rogers, Karstin DuPont, KyleeJo Symonds; middle row left: Maddi Doren, Stella Marcus, Erin Rotert; front row left: Justine Mitchell, Grace Karp, Sydney Gusso, Rachel Woods, Antonia Hill, Tayler Duncan, and Lily McCarty. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

Fall 2020

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SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Diggers creating brand-new volleyball lineup

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer LEAD — Lead-Deadwood’s varsity volleyball scene will look quite different from what has been the case in recent years.

Senior setter Kailee Bertrand is the lone returning starter from last year’s squad that finished 18-12 and fell to Hill City, three games to zero, in the Region 8A tournament.

“I am really encouraged by what we’ve got going during the last couple of days of practice,” Golddiggers’ head coach Kim Hansen said. She is in her fifth season here and said the next group is ready for the varsity level.

This group features six other seniors, two juniors, and one sophomore.

Seniors are outside hitters McKinly Kyte and Lexie Schroeder, right side

hitter Madi Rystrom, defensive specialists Lillie Wittmayer and Taya Burleson, and middle hitter Alex Pearson.

Middle hitters Rachel Janssen and Jayna Prince, plus right-side hitter Madison Rogers, represent the junior class. Setter Allison Mollman and right-side hitter Tilli Katon are sophomores.

“I see a team that absolutely loves the game of volleyball,” Hansen said.

“When we try an adjustment to the game, they are going to do absolutely everything they can to make that happen.”

Hansen said the players have a lot of energy and are very coachable.

“Especially this year with all the unknowns, it really puts into perspective how we need to make each day count,

each practice count,” Hansen added.

Hansen said this squad has not had a lot of varsity experience. However, it scrimmaged against last year’s starters and knows how to compete.

“It’s scary to start your first varsity game. I have to remind them that they have been playing at this level for a year already,” she added.

Region 8A looks really strong to Hansen. Hill City, Belle Fourche, St. Thomas More, and Rapid City Christian are among those squads.

Hill City earned Hansen’s nod in the Black Hills Conference race. She said Lead-Deadwood has some good things happening on its court, including a well-rounded hitting crew.

How do Hansen and the Golddiggers define success in 2020?

“We’ve really been focusing on that

first contact: that very first ball that comes over the net,” she said.

Official practice sessions began on Aug. 13. Focal points included basic skills.

Hansen said the players have great attitudes and volleyball awareness. She added that will serve them quite well going ahead.

“We’re just looking for some consistency,” Hansen said when asked about improvement she would like to see. She added the pieces are there, with good percentages (passing, hitting, serving) needed.

Rebecca Groeger, Natalie Janssen, Raygan Mattson, Anna Campbell, Hannah Campbell, and Blake Mehlberg graduated from that squad.

LEAD-DEADWOOD volleyball schedule Sept. 10, 7 p.m. ............hosting Belle Fourche Sept. 10, 7 p.m. ................ at St. Thomas More Sept. 22, 7 p.m..................... hosting Hill City Sept. 29, 6 p.m. ............................ at Red Cloud Oct. 8, 7 p.m. .......... hosting St. Thomas More Oct. 15, 7 p.m. .........................hosting Sturgis Oct. 23, 7 p.m. .......................at Belle Fourche

Lead-Deadwood’s varsity volleyball team includes back row from left: Madi Rystrom, Taya Burleson, McKinly Kyte, Alex Pearson, Kailee Bertrand, Lilli Wittmayer, Lexie Schroeder; front row left: Allison Mollman, Jayna Prince, Rachel Janssen, Tilli Katon, and Madison Rogers. Head coach Kim Hansen is not pictured.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Broncs’ volleyball team preparing for season

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer BELLE FOURCHE — Belle Fourche varsity volleyball players are getting ready for a 2020 season set to begin Aug. 25 at Sturgis.

“We have some great senior leadership this year,” Broncs’ head coach Loree Schlichtemeier said in describing the squad. “The group of girls in this entire gym has great attitudes right now.”

Five seniors are on the roster as of press time. They are outside hitter Amity Middleton, utility player Kylee Crago, right-side hitter Hayley Wilbur, and defensive specialists Layla Hockenbary and Katie Mailloux.

The juniors are defensive specialist Allison Labrier, setter McKenzie Lyons, and middle hitter Kaylin Garza.

Setter Ayden Kummer, middle hitter Grace Clooten, and middle-right side hitter Tia Williamson represent the sophomore class. Mataya Ward rounds

out the roster as an outside hitter and is in the ninth grade.

Schlichtemeier, who is in her 13th season as Belle Fourche’s head coach, said the players are really excited to return to the gym. She added they are doing things a bit better each day.

When asked what players need to work on, Schlichtemeier said, “Just fine-tuning some things, making sure our skills are really clean, and continuing to get better.” She added the team does not want to level off.

Belle Fourche has a really busy schedule.

“Once we get going after our first match, we’ve got a game every Tuesday and Thursday except for two weeks for the entire season,” Schlichtemeier said.

The Broncs are slated to host Custer in their home opener Sept. 3. That is the first of eight home events including a Sept. 26 tournament.

Belle Fourche will also host St. Thomas More on Sept. 8, Hot Springs on

Sept. 17, Rapid City Christian on Sept.

22, Spearfish on Oct. 13, Lead-Deadwood on Oct. 23, and Hill City for the Oct. 27 regular-season finale.

The Broncs will also travel to Lennox and Redfield for tournaments and visit Aberdeen Roncalli.

“I think it’s going to be really interesting,” Schlichtemeier said in describing the Black Hills Conference race. She added Hill City, St. Thomas More, and Custer among the squads to battle for the top spot.

Schlichtemeier said Belle Fourche has the capability of having a great season.

She sees the Broncs as being in the mix.

“I think every time we get to be in the gym, like today (Aug. 20), we’ve got to be thankful,” Schlichtemeier said. “Each game farther into the season that we have: that’s a success.”

Success will hinge on keeping everyone healthy, plus being able to attend classes and play volleyball, according to Schlichtemeier.

Official practice sessions got underway on Aug. 13. Tryouts and assessments dominated the first three days.

“Now, we’re just working on the game part of it: trying to make sure we’re ready rotation-wise,” Schlichtemeier said.

Belle Fourche finished 9-19 last season and fell, three games to zero, to Rapid City Christian at the Region 8A tournament.

Taryn Stedillie, Alexis Cherveny, Elena Wolf, Aspen Braning, and Harley Fischer graduated from that squad.

What can the returning players use to start setting a foundation for 2020?

“The experience of playing, and just building on their skill set from where they were last year,” Schlichtemeier said.

BELLE FOURCHE volleyball schedule Sept. 3, 7 p.m. ...........................hosting Custer Sept. 5, 3 p.m. ................................. at Hill City Sept. 8, 7 p.m. ........ hosting St. Thomas More Sept. 10, 7 p.m. .................. at Lead-Deadwood Sept. 12, 8 a.m. ..........at Lennox Tournament Sept. 15 6 p.m.......................... at Broadus, MT

(Powder River County, MT)

Sept. 17, 7 p.m................ hosting Hot Springs Sept. 22, 6 p.m. ............. hosting RC Christian Sept. 26, 9 a.m..............hosting a Tournament Oct. 2, 3 p.m. ................................. at Aberdeen Oct. 3, 8 a.m. .............at Redfield Tournament Oct. 6, 7 p.m. .........................................at Faith Oct. 8, 7 p.m. .................................at Box Elder

(Douglas)

Belle Fourche’s varsity volleyball team features, back row left: student manager Jacey Fowler, Tia Williamson, Grace Clooten, Hayley Wilbur, Kaylin Garza, Mataya Ward, student manager Sophia Thompson; front row left: Amity Middleton, Kylee Crago, Katie Mailloux, Layla Hockenbary, McKenzie Lyons, and Ayden Kummer. Allison Labrier and head coach Loree Schlichtemeier is not pictured.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

Oct. 13, 7 p.m. .....................hosting Spearfish Oct. 15, 6 p.m. ............................. at Red Cloud Oct. 20, 7 p.m. ................. at St. Thomas More Oct. 23, 7 p.m. ......... hosting Lead-Deadwood Oct. 27, 7 p.m. ...................... hosting Hill City

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Page 5

Lady Scooper Volleyball team prepare for season with high expectations

By Tim Potts Black Hills Pioneer STURGIS — The Lady Scoopers volleyball team is concentrating this year on passing and being able to run a quicker offense.

“We have high expectations for the season. The girls are working hard and have improved tremendously this summer,” said Deb Cano, Sturgis varsity coach. “We will have a solid team that works well together, and I think we are going to surprise a lot of other teams,” she added.

Cano has coached for 15 years as an assistant coach, from seventh-grade through college, and two years as head

coach and will be assisted this season by Amber Burgdoerfer and Krystal Weber.

This year, the Scoopers have 43 athletes battling for spots on the team, eight seniors, 12 juniors, nine sophomores, and 14 freshman with six returning letter winners: Makayla Keffeler, Kaylee Whatley, Joellen Cano, Olivia Vollmer, Kylee Wolter, and Ella Johnson.

Cano commented about the hard work and the coachability of this group of juniors and seniors and said it is outstanding. The ladies strive to get better each day and this summer they worked on a lot of individual skills which makes the team better.

The Scoopers will be without some

key seniors for the 2019 season: Sydney Shaw, Kylie Shaw, Sarah Janz, and Emily Gray-Smith.

Cano talked about the conference and where the Scoopers may end up.

“I would like to say we should be in the top three, I think we are going to surprise a lot of teams this year.”

“This is a great group of girls to watch play volleyball. They hustle and never give up,” Cano said. “I am excited we are getting to play and I hope people get a chance to watch them compete,” she added.

The Scoopers opened the season at home and played the Belle Fourche Broncs.

STURGIS BROWN volleyball schedule Aug. 28, 3:30 p.m. ..........................at Mitchell Aug. 29, 9 a.m. ........... at Huron Tournament Sept. 1, 7 p.m. ........ hosting St. Thomas More Sept. 5, 5 p.m. ............................... at Aberdeen Sept. 8, 7 p.m. ...........................hosting Custer Sept. 15, 7 p.m. .................hosting RC Stevens Sept. 17, 7 p.m. ................................ at Hill city Sept. 22, 7 p.m. ....................hosting Spearfish Sept. 24, 7 p.m. ...................... hosting Douglas Sept. 29, TBA ............................ at Hot Springs Oct. 1, 7 p.m. ....................................at Douglas Oct. 6, 7 p.m. ..................................at Spearfish Oct. 8, 6 p.m. ................................ at Red Cloud Oct. 13, 7 p.m. ............................at RC Central Oct. 15, 7 p.m. ................... at Lead-Deadwood Oct. 20, 6 p.m. .................................... at Pierre Oct. 23, 4 p.m....hosting Unknown Opponent Oct. 24, 9 a.m..... hosting Yankton Tournament Oct. 24, TBA .............hosting Brandon Valley Oct. 27, 7 p.m. ............................at RC Stevens Nov. 5, 7 p.m. ..............................at RC Central

The Lady Scooper varsity volleyball team for the 2020 season, back from left: Joellen Cano, Elizabeth Ortiz, Jillian Beck, Makayla Keffeler, Morgan Phillips, Brinley Pickett, and Julianna Cano, student manager. Front from left: Hannah Aston, Kaylee Whatley, Kylee Wolter, Olivia Vollmer, Ella Johnson, and Samantha Shaw.

Pioneer photo by Tim Potts

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Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Newell Irrigators eagerly anticipate VB season

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer NEWELL — Newell’s volleyball team returns virtually everyone from a squad that finished 12-13 last season under third-year head coach Tysha McDonald.

“We have a lot of characters here that are really going to be rolling,” McDonald said in describing the lineup.

“We’re going to be really hard offensively with our hitters and blockers.”

McDonald added the Irrigators’ lineup also boasts good setters.

Four seniors are part of the lineup. They are middle hitters Kassidy Weeldreyer and Kayden Steele, outside hitter and captain Lexa Burtzlaff, and libero McKaylee Mahaffy.

Junior Sydnee Kjellsen is a co-captain and plays a setter position. Setters Katie McTaggart and Stacy Mahaffy, plus outside hitter Taylor Gaer, represent the sophomore class.

Two ninth-graders round out the roster. Kimberley Johnston is a defensive specialist, with Jaelyn Wendt playing a middle hitter position.

McDonald areas to work on include defense, and working together as a team.

The Irrigators opened their season Aug. 25 against Lead-Deadwood, with their next home match Sept. 15 against Bison.

Seven home matches are on Newell’s schedule, including the regular-season finale Oct. 26 against Faith. Other such matches are against New Underwood (Sept. 22), McIntosh (Sept. 29), Wall (Oct. 1), and Harding County (Oct. 9).

McDonald said Newell’s schedule is difficult, which will force a team to be ready each week.

Faith and Newell should battle for the Little Moreau Conference title, according to McDonald. She said Lemmon and

Timber Lake could also contend.

“I think our biggest thing is just getting on a roll that lets these girls feel what it feels like to win,” McDonald said in outlining a successful season.

She added the team experienced some of that in 2019 and said they will push themselves to get over the hump.

Official practice sessions began Aug. 13. “We’ve definitely been working on defense,” McDonald said, adding the younger players are not used to a high-pressure game.

What can players take from last season to start a foundation for this year?

“The biggest thing is just how hard we played offensively,” McDonald said.

“We have tough hitters that really perfected their skills.” She added that would provide an easy flow.

McDonald said she would like to see a stronger team set for this year’s seniors to leave behind.

NEWELL volleyball schedule Sept. 3, 5 p.m. ................................. at Oelrichs Sept. 15, 5 p.m. .......................... hosting Bison Sept. 24, 7 p.m. ............................... at Hill City Oct. 6, 5 p.m. ..................................... at Dupree Oct. 17, 9 a.m....at Dupree/Spike Out Cancer

Newell’s volleyball players are conducting preseason workouts to get ready for the season. Pictured are back row left: Kaira Stomprud, Rachel Erk, Lexa Burtzlaff, Kassidy Weeldreyer, Jaelyn Wendt, Kayden Steele, Sophia Johnston; front row left: Stacy Mahaffy, Kelsi Clements, McKaylee Mahaffy, Sydnee Kjellsen, Katie McTaggart, and Kimberly Johnson.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Some BHSU sports sidelined by COVID

By Dennis Knuckles Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — COVID-19 destroyed spring sports for both high school and college athletes. The same is true for some fall sports.

While South Dakota high schools are attempting to play fall sports, most colleges have opted to move their fall sports to the spring.

Such is the case for Black Hills State University.

Only cross country, golf, and rodeo will have fall sports in 2020.

Football, volleyball, triathlon, and soccer have been beched, with hopes of resuming in the spring.

“Right now in the whole COVID pandemic, everything is challenging, and you have to look at it from what is the best scenario and how do we move forward in the best way possible,” said Jhett Albers, Black Hills State University’s athletic director. “The challenges will then come as you start to go down the road a little bit and they’ll change, and we’ll adapt.”

Albers said the constant changes from the pandemic can be frustrating.

“I think people want to know and have set in their minds “here’s what we are planning for and here’s what we can get prepared for,” and when that changes I think it becomes challenging,” he said.

He said the ever-changing plan becomes frustrating.

Albers said everyone is trying to remain positive through the pandemic.

“You have to look at it from — this is the hand we have been dealt, we’re going to deal with it the best we can, and plan accordingly,” Albers said.

Connie Feist, the head coach for the BHSU triathlon team said the team is trying to put a positive spin on their triathlon season being moved to the spring.

“Although we will not be competing in the races planned for this fall, our team is looking forward to the opportunities to train in many of the beautiful venues in the Black Hills this season as we prepare for potential spring races,” said Feist. “Initially we were certainly disappointed because we are used to racing in the fall, but all of our athletes on campus now are looking forward to

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developing their skills and endurance, and even going into the spring even fitter and faster. We are going to turn this into a positive and work on turning this into a development season.”

Feist added the team trains year round so moving to the spring, where the water for the swimming part of the triathlon will be colder, and will not be a problem for the BHSU triathlon athletes.

Josh Breske’s debut as the Yellow Jackets head football coach will now to wait until at least spring 2021.

Breske is replacing John Reiners who resigned in November 2019, after eight seasons as the Yellow Jackets head coach.

Breske said the cancelation of the fall football season came as a surprise to him, the coaches, and the team.

BHSU SPORTS Pg 8

Two Black Hills State football defenders wrap up a ball carrier during a football game in 2019. Pioneer file photos

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SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER tell my team, and what plan do I need to put together.”

Breske said he feels for the school administrators.

“I got a text the other day from the athletic director at Linwood (in Missouri), the last place I worked at

Sierra Ward, of Black Hills State, goes up for a kill during a volleyball match in 2019.

Pioneer file photos

and he said, ‘Man, it’s a heck of a time to be a head coach, isn’t it.’ I thought to myself, it’s even more of a tough time to be an administrator right now. I definitely feel for those guys.”

The Yellow Jackets football team is hoping to practice this fall if they can

Black Hills State University triathlon athlete Mathilde Bernard competes in the running portion of a triathlon in 2019.

Fall 2020 meet the NCAA mandates.

“The NCAA has mandated that teams have the ability to test 25 to 50% of your team every two weeks,” Breske said.

“Right now that is our biggest challenge, to figure out how we are going to do that with football, with women’s soccer, with all the sports we have here on our campus,” he said.

Breske added that once the university figures out how they are going to get this done, and at what cost, the university will lay out a plan for a 15-day practice schedule.

“It will be much similar to spring ball, with much better weather,” he said. “So we will be able to get that done fall, cultimating with a fall game, maybe on a Friday night where we can invite our student body to enjoy a little football on a Friday night.”

Breske added that the big question about playing football in the spring is how many games to have. He said those details still have to be worked out.

Kristen Carmichael, the Lady Jackets women’s head volleyball coach, said the team was disappointed when they found out they weren’t playing this season.

“I think there was some initial disappointment. I know they worked really hard this summer to be prepared to go play this fall,” said Carmichael. “But at the same time I think it was also kind of exciting to see what a competitive season would look like after a whole lot more practice than we normally get.”

Carmichael said it hasn’t been hard so far to keep the women motivated and focused on playing volleyball in the spring of 2021.

“I think that they will stay motivated since their competitive season is coming up, and I think we are all going to work really hard to keep what’s important, important. There are a lot of people who aren’t getting to play their sport at all, we just get to play ours at a different time and we are trying to stay grateful for that, Carmichael said.

Carmichael said the team hasn’t had any practices yet, and she’s not sure what that will look like, but she’s hoping to learn more about when and how they can proceed in the near future.

The Black Hills State women’s soccer team was stunned to learn their fall season was being canceled and would be moved to the spring.

“I was surprised by the way things went. It just depends on how you look at the situation,” said Mike Greco.

“They were bummed. We talked about it. It’s just a different challenge and as a coach I think it’s up to me to show them how to handle that.”

Greco added the team needed to take the time to be disappointed and process the news.

“To their credit they have been doing volunteer practices, they’ve been arranging some community projects to get done this fall,” said Greco.

Katie Nielson, of Black Hills State, gets a hug from a teammate after scoring a goal in a soccer match in 2019.

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SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spearfish football team starting new era

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — First-year Spearfish head football coach Dalton Wademan outlined how things are going for his team as it prepares for its Aug. 28 season opener against Yankton at Lyle Hare Stadium.

“We have a group of seven seniors that have done a great job building our foundation and leading this squad,” Wademan said.

Those seniors are Derek Webster (quarterback-safety-kicker), Logan Langenfeld (wide receiver-linebacker), Austin Crotteau (offensive lineman-defensive lineman), Tim Moore (offensive lineman-defensive lineman), Austin McMillin (wide receiver-linebacker), Sean Wenzel (quarterback-safety), and Duncan Worthington (running back-linebacker).

Spearfish’s roster as of press time also includes 10 juniors, six sophomores, and 16 ninth-graders. The total out for this year’s team is 39.

“I think we’re just hungry to get after it,” Wademan said of Spearfish’s strong suits. He added the team attitude centers on outworking everyone else.

Items to work on going forward include being confident in what the team is doing, according to Wademan.

“When we get that confidence as a group, as a team, then we’ll be able to move forward,” he said.

Wademan said Spearfish faces a very tough schedule this year. The opener against Yankton is one of four home games for the Spartans, with the others Sept. 18 against St. Thomas More; Oct. 2 against Douglas; and Oct. 16 against Brookings.

“We just have to take each week day by day,” Wademan said. “We have to go 1 and 0 in everything that we do.” He added the Spartans will give their full effort on game nights.

When asked to handicap the Black Hills Conference’s Mt. Rushmore Division, Wademan said he has not

looked that far ahead. He added he has watched film on Yankton and Custer: the Spartans’ first two opponents.

“We just have to concentrate on the little things each and every day,” Wademan said in outlining his definition of success. “The bigger picture will take care of itself if we can take care of small details.”

Wademan added team success depends on what he calls Spartan football: confident, flying around, physical, and outworking opponents.

Official practice sessions began on Aug. 3. Wademan said players improved on offense, defense, and special teams during that time.

Spearfish finished 0-10 last season and fell 103-0 to eventual state champion Pierre in a first-round, Class 11AA playoff game.

Jack Beringer, Evan Hehr, Bridger Janvrin, Jacob Johnson, Cade Lyon, Nathan Terrasas, and Charlie Waugh graduated from that squad.

SPEARFISH football schedule Aug. 28, 6 p.m. ..................... hosting Yankton Sept. 4, 6 p.m. .....................................at Custer Sept. 11, 5 p.m. ................................at Mitchell Sept. 18, 6 p.m. ...... hosting St. Thomas More Sept. 25, 6 p.m. ................................... at Pierre Oct. 2, 6 p.m. ......................... hosting Douglas Oct. 9, 6 p.m. ..........................at Belle Fourche Oct. 22, 6 p.m. ...................................at Sturgis

SPEARFISH FOREST UCTS PRrfOishD , South Dakota

Spearfish’s football team for the 2020 season features, back row left: assistant coach Jim Martin, assistant coach Cade Walter, assistant coach Jacob Zigler, head coach Dalton Wademan, assistant coach Cody Powers, assistant coach Brady Sudbeck, assistant coach Zac Zandstra; fourth row left, Brennan Aga, Aiden Haught, Sam Moore, Brodie Tetrault, Jonathon Bloom, Zachary Adler, Matthew Marrs, Zander Brost, Mike Gonzales; third row left: Kolter Robbins, Jonah Donner, Isaiah Lahoe, David Doren, Tim Moore, Dawson Wood, Tyler Hopkins, Will Brien, Sam Gaddis; second row left, Mason Schmitz, James Clark, Logan Langenfeld, John Jeffery, Carter Lyon, Caden Jones, Austin McMillin, Jacob Donner, Caden Langenfeld; front row left: Chase McArthur, Seth Hamilton, Derek Webster, Brayden Delahoyde, Brady Hartwig, Duncan Worthington, Sean Wenzel, Peyton Millis, and Jayden Guthmiller. Austin Crotteau, Logan Gosse, and Silas Stevens are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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Page 10

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Diggers bringing experience to gridiron

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer LEAD — The proverbial cupboard is certainly not bare for the LeadDeadwood football team.

“We’ve got a lot of really good returners,” head coach Tom Tieszen said in previewing the 2020 season that started Aug. 21 against Bennett County. He is in his sixth season here.

Senior running back-linebacker Charlie Hanel, senior running back-linebacker Dawson Janke, senior lineman Tyler Rohn, and junior quarterback-linebacker Rocke Rainey are the returners Tieszen listed.

Numbers are not really an issue for the Golddiggers these days. “The last I counted, we had 43 on the roster, which is huge for us,” Tieszen said.

A great amount of returning experience is a strength, according to Tieszen. He said the senior class has potential, and now is the time to act on that.

Eight other seniors are on the roster as of press time. They are linemen Brevan Norris and Gage Mau; running backs-linebackers Cody Rakow and Domenic Lucero; offensive lineman-linebacker Jack Hallock; and wide receivers-defensive backs Jacob

Harris, Mekieh Hon, and T.K. Rainey.

Seven juniors, 10 sophomores, and 12 ninth-graders round out the roster as of press time.

The current COVID-19 situation has factored into the team mindset Tieszen seeks.

“Playing every practice, every game like it could be your last, because it could be a potentially goofy year,” Tieszen said.

He added that may provide a good drive for players to reach their potential.

The Golddiggers are currently working a lot on depth, which includes having multiple players at each position in case something happens.

“We’ve got some really good competition,” Tieszen said of a schedule that includes four home games, including the Bennett County matchup. The home slate also includes Mobridge Pollock (Sept. 4), Hot Springs (Sept. 12), and Chamberlain (Sept. 25).

Tieszen sees Custer as a favorite in the Black Hills Conference’s Crazy Horse Division. He said everyone is in the mix, and he likes the Golddiggers’ chances.

“There have been a few years where I have felt pretty confident going toe to toe with everyone in the conference,” Tieszen said. “I think this is one of those perfect years.”

Success for the Golddiggers depends on the team reaching its potential, according to Tieszen. He said that happens if everyone does everything they could to be as good as possible.

Practice sessions officially started on Aug. 10. Conditioning, learning the schemes and other mental exercises have taken up a share of that time.

“The nice thing is, for the seniors, this is their fourth year of running a lot of this stuff,” Tieszen said. He added the older players are helping their younger teammates prepare.

Lead-Deadwood finished 3-6 last season and fell 60-7 to Winner in a Class 11B first-round playoff game.

Jordy Stulken, Pablo Munoz Fraga, Max Johnson, Dylan Schumacher, and Rob Lester graduated from that squad.

Tieszen reflected on how last year’s senior class provided a lot of leadership.

He said this year’s seniors have assumed a “coach on the field” role, which is what he is expecting.

“I thought last year, we really clicked,” Tieszen said when asked about the improvements Lead-Deadwood could make for this year. “Maybe this year, having a little more versatility, players being able to take on more roles.”

LEAD-DEADWOOD football schedule Aug. 28, 6 p.m. .................... at Upton/Sundance Sept. 4, 6 p.m........... hosting Mobridge-Pollock Sept. 12, 6 p.m.................... hosting Hot Springs Sept. 18, 6 p.m............................... at Pine Ridge Sept. 25, 6 p.m. ................ hosting Chamberlain Oct. 9, 6 p.m. ................................hosting Custer Oct. 15, 6 p.m. .......................at STM-Rapid City

Lead-Deadwood’s football team includes back row left: Brevan Norris, Mekieh Hon, Gage Mau, Cody Rakow, T.K. Rainey, Dom Lucero, Jack Hallock, Dawson Janke, Tyler Rohn; fourth row left, Phillip Sneesby, Todd Locke, Rocke Rainey, Carter Estes, Stryder Greenfield, David Morris, Tristen Fierbach, Eli Heisinger, Jacob Harris, Charlie Hanel; third row left: James Pearce, Jacob Smith, Miles Crippen, Ryan Rantapaa, Crew Rainey, Preston Lowery, Brody Neil, Tyler Williams, Ethan Van Tassel, Kashton Dillman; second row left: Cope Williams, Dylan Hon, Mekhi Hayes, McGuyre Kyte, Conner Bender, Trenton Bloedel, Jaxson Burleson; front row left: Cooper Quenzer, Dylan Meade, and Trystian Greenfield. Brayden Derby, Brett Bulland, Channing Bloedel, Fisher Norris, and Rylan Burnham are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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Page 11

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Broncs’ football team to start up front

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer BELLE FOURCHE — Line play will form a vital component for the Belle Fourche football team this season.

“We return a lot of our offensive and defensive lines,” Broncs’ head coach Scott Slotten said. He is starting his seventh season here.

Seniors Logan Goeders and Aiken Crowley will fill spots on the lines.

Other players return for a Broncs’ team that finished 5-4 last season and missed a class 11A playoff berth by only two spots.

“We’ve got a good nucleus coming back that will compete in every game,” Slotten said.

“Our strengths have to be our experience up front, even in the defensive front eight,” Slotten said. He added the team did not lose much from there because of graduation.

Classmate Brextin Garza plays linebacker and running back positions.

Aiden Giffin returns at wide receiver-defensive back. Slotten said the junior looks to fill a lot of roles this season.

Senior Lan Fuhrer is a wide receiver-defensive back whom Slotten anticipates filling in for last year’s seniors.

Sophomore Thomas McCoy is a run-

ning back-linebacker.

Four other seniors are on the roster as of press time. They are wide receiver-defensive back Gage Kracht, wide receiver-safety Blake Vissia, offensive lineman-linebacker Dagan Burns, and lineman Austin Wood.

The rest of the press-time roster includes 14 juniors, 11 sophomores, and 11 ninth-graders.

Slotten said the team is looking for leadership on the field and not to rely on the coaches.

The slate includes home games against Douglas, S.D., Sept. 4; Douglas, Wyo., Sept. 11; Spearfish, Oct. 9; and Sturgis, Oct. 16.

“I think there’s going to be a lot of competitive equalness in our conference,” Slotten said. The Broncs compete in the Black Hills Conference’s Mt. Rushmore Division.

Slotten tabbed Sturgis as the conference favorite, saying the Scoopers return a lot from a team that was very solid at the end of 2019. He added St. Thomas More will always be a favorite.

“I think we should compete in every game,” Slotten said. “There is a lot of talent in our conference, and we’ve got to, for sure, come ready to play every week.”

Daily improvement and peaking

at season’s end always mark success.

Slotten said the Broncs also want to win the conference title and reach the playoffs.

“Flying around, making plays, and staying competitive will prove our success,” Slotten said. “I think these guys are ready to do that.”

Official practice sessions began on Aug. 10. Players worked on a revamped defense, focused on conditioning, and looked for a new quarterback.

Colby Nowowiejski, Kelby Olson, Jackson Tyndall, Tate Larson, Michael Streeter, Keaton Benson, Colby Tadra, and Chase Bickerdyke graduated from last season’s team.

Slotten said those seniors’ competitive nature could help set a foundation for this year. “If these guys take that next step and want it just as much as them, they’re going to follow in those footsteps,” he added.

As for improvements, Slotten goes back to something he has discussed numerous times in the past.

“Defensively, we’ve got to stop the run, especially the outside run,” he said. Teams like St. Thomas More and Sturgis ran for more than 300 yards against the Broncs in 2019.

Slotten said he would also like to see Belle Fourche return to running the

ball effectively. He added they rushed for roughly 800 yards last season: fewer than 100 per game.

BELLE FOURCHE football schedule Aug. 28, 5 p.m. ...........................at Vermillion Sept. 4, 6 p.m. ........................ hosting Douglas Sept. 11, 6 p.m. ..............hosting Douglas, WY Sept. 18, 6 p.m. ...................................at Custer Sept. 25, 6 p.m. ...........................................TBD Oct. 2, 6 p.m. ......................at STM-Rapid City Oct. 9, 6 p.m. ........................hosting Spearfish Oct. 16, 6 p.m. .........................hosting Sturgis Oct. 22, 6 p.m. ............................................TBD

The Belle Fourche football team includes back row from left: Dalton Davis, Aiden McCarty, Cole Hockenbary, Aiden Giffin, Cade Bickerdyke, Tatin Yackley, Logan Goeders, Blake Vissia, Lan Fuhrer, Anthony Staley, Brooks Clooten, Jayden Sechser, Anthony Budmayr, Terrence Lara; third row left: Aiken Crowley, Nolan Wahlfeldt, Ryan Evans, Gabe Heck, Riley Newman, Dagan Burns, Sean Wahlfeldt, Brextin Garza, Gage Kracht, Blake Hedrick; second row left: Ryker Audiss, Devin Burns, Ethan Jensen, Brayden Carbajal, Thomas McCoy, Jason Carr, Gunnar Geib, Devin Nowowiejski, Lane Longbrake, Lucas Green, Jack Stearns, Kyren Nulle; front row left: Carter McKenna, Haydon Nickerson, Jordan Sandoval, Logan Tyndall, Austin Wood, Andy Tonsager, Damian Park, Jamie Sexton, Earl Jordan, and Jaimen Sechser. Head coach Scott Slotten is not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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Page 12

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Sturgis Scooper football team prepares for season

By Tim Potts Black Hills Pioneer STURGIS — The Sturgis Brown football team will start the 2020 season with 11 returning letter winners, and they have high expectations for the season.

“We lost of lot of experience and leadership from the 2019 season. Our seniors will need to raise their own expectations to meet our team goals and make the strides we want to see,” said Chris Koletzky, the Scoopers head football coach. “We need to become comfortable in competitive circumstances and learn to battle in those tough situations.”

Koletzky talked about the biggest challenge he will face this season.

“We lost four quality lineman from last year and our starting quarterback and filling those positions will be our biggest challenges heading into the 2020 season,” he said.

The Scoopers ended 2019 with a 4-6 record, and lost in the playoffs to Mitchell, 35-28.

Wren Jacobs is a returning letterman for the Scoopers, and offensively had 26 carries for 226 years and one touchdown and defensively had 66 tackles and two sacks.

“Wren (Jacobs) is a leader and does everything you ask of him. He is abso-

lutely what you want in a football player,” Koletzky said.

Jacobs said he is excited for the season to begin.

“I am super excited to have the opportunity so far to even have a season. We have a lot of good athletes that I am glad to be surrounded by and can’t wait to play with them,” said Jacobs, a senior. “Our first game is probably going to be the toughest game all year going against Pierre, but I wouldn’t want to play anyone else to determine if all our hard work paid off.”

Kaden Phillips also played on both sides of the ball last season with 30 carries for 110 yards and one touchdown, and he had 22 tackles and one interception on defense.

“I’m excited to see what this year’s team can accomplish, we have a lot of really athletic kids that will be a huge help on both sides of the ball. We don’t have as many linemen as we have had in past years but I am confident that the guys we have can get the job done,” said Phillips, a senior. “I am very excited to get back on the field with my team.”

Sanden Graham had 10 receptions for 166 years, one touchdown and on defense he had 14 tackles.

“This season will be a little different but I believe our team is going to push though it and grind it out. Last year we

lost a lot of linemen but we have some underclassmen that will be able to step up and take over,” said Kaden Nelson, a senior player. “Overall I have confidence in our team, being able to step up and play a hard fought game.”

Koletzky said Jared Duran, is hard working and will be solid and probably will play both ways on the line.

The Scoopers lost starters: Zach Shoun, Trevor Erlenbusch, Cy Eixenberger, Josh Fowler, Cody Nelson, Trever Keierleber, Justin Burnham, Daylen Rhodes, and Gabe Legner, to graduation.

The Scoopers have some athleticism coming back and they have a great junior class that will be pushing for several starting positions.

Assistant coaches for the Scoopers this year include: Ward Anderson, Pat Cass, Geody Vandewater, Dusty Hess, Taylor Buus, Josh Kirchner, Derris Buus, Tyler Lewis, and Travis Parker.

Koletzky talked about the favored team this season.

“The Pierre Governors are the standard for Class AA and I don’t expect them to let up this season. Several teams, Yankton, Douglas, Huron and Mitchell, were young last year and look to make strides this season to become one of the top teams of Class AA. St. Thomas More is another program that has a tremen-

dous culture and history and we look for them to be a very good team for 2020.”

Newcomers that will likely see significant action this year will be Kaden Phillips, Owen Cass and Tanner Ortlieb, will complete for quarterback time, Konnor Berndt as linebacker, Kaden Nelson as running back and Brodie Eisenbraun as punter.

“As all teams staying healthy through the season will also be a key factor for us,” Koletzky said.

The Scoopers open its 2020 season Aug. 28, when they host the Pierre-T.F Riggs Governors.

STURGIS BROWN football schedule Aug. 28, 6 p.m. ......................... hosting Pierre Sept. 4, 6 p.m. ..........hosting STM-Rapid City Sept. 11, 6 p.m. ............................at Brookings Sept. 18, 6 p.m. ................................at Douglas Sept. 25, 6 p.m. .........................hosting Huron Oct. 2, 6 p.m. ................................... at Yankton Oct. 9, 6 p.m. ..........................hosting Mitchell Oct. 16, 6 p.m. .......................at Belle Fourche Oct. 22, 6 p.m...................... hosting Spearfish

The Sturgis Football team for 2020 include, back from left: Ward Anderson, Geody VanDewater, assistant coaches, Hunter Harrison, Remington Sankey, Max Lowe, Kaden Nelson, Owen Cass, Buck Fickbohm, Slade Heller, Hayden Wright, TylerBrandner, Slade Keierleber, Dysen Peterson, Kaden Phillips, Brad Williams, Talon Elshere, Jake Vliem, Wren Jacobs, Sanden Graham, Owen Koontz, Zac Juelfs, Gavin Smith, Zane Heller, Konner Berndt,Rio Sexton, Reese Jacobs, Jarrod Duran, Brady McKeown, Morgan Patrick, and Aiden Werlinger, Chris Nielan, Michael Voigt, Assistant coach Derris. Buus, Chris Koletzky, Coach, and Tyler Lewis. Kneeling from left: Pat Cass, Assistant coach, Drew Hoeke, Caleb Weishaar, Cale Jolley, Aaron Rahn, Elliot Prokop, Braden Temple, Caleb Pilatos, Tanner Ortlieb, Paul Pulling, Brayden Ruff, Blade Walker, Adam Flohr, Ben Storm, Daniel O Grady, Gavin Ligtenberg, Lance Septka, and Abbie Culver Student Manager.

Front kneeling: Gunner Rohloff, Austin Atyeo, Peter Pulling, Dominik Smith, Preston Ray, Tyan Buus, Madison Schaefer, Thayne Elshere, Owen Udager, Demetrious Daniels, Gavin Sundstrom, Tyzer Thomson, Jayden Rahn, and Byron Holt. Not pictured: Brodie Eisenbraun, Ben Eberhard Coaches, Travis Parker, Taylor Buus, and Tom Donney. Photo by Dave Brenneman.

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Fall 2020

Page 13

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Irrigators stressing team approach on field

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer NEWELL — Newell head football coach Tyrel Bonnet looks at the overall picture when listing the key players on this season’s squad.

“I know it sounds pretty cliché, but anybody who’s returning from last year is vital,” the third-year Irrigator boss said.

“We’re a pretty young team.”

Last year’s team graduated five seniors: Jake Olson, Hunter Wetz, John Jackson, Huttson Weeldreyer, and Tucker Gaer.

Bonnet said returning players would be vital leaders going forward.

Newell’s roster contains 15 names as of press time, with Neuly Mahaffy being the lone senior.

Caleb McGregor and Chase VanDerBoom represent the junior class.

Five sophomores follow: Colton Burtzlaff, Nate Randolph, Jaden Tennis, Payton Johnston, and Braiden Shaykett.

Eight ninth-graders round out the roster. They are William Juelfs, Colton Niles, James Duncan, Gavin Tesch, Orin Bender, Charlie Clements, Andrew Packard, and Austin Wise.

“The gentlemen that show up to practice are showing up to work hard,” Bonnet said. He agreed that ethic, along with the returning experience, are Newell’s strengths.

Discipline will be key this year, according to Bonnet. He cited the importance of playing fundamentally correct football.

The Irrigators’ 2020 schedule is similar to that of 2019, when the team finished 1-7. Four home games are included: Sept.

4 against Jones County-White River, Sept.

18 against Dupree, Oct. 2 against Bison for homecoming, and Oct. 9 against Harding County.

With the COVID-19 situation, Bonnet said, some teams may have fewer players on their rosters this season. He added it

will be a battle each week.

“I see good things in the future,” Bonnet said. He reiterated the work ethic and said some of the players are really athletic.

“We define a successful season by staying healthy,” Bonnet said. “It’s always a struggle, especially when you have that few numbers.”

Official practice sessions began around Aug. 10. Players have worked on the fundamentals during that time.

Bonnet said Newell had a tough 2019 season. He added he would like to see the players take the positives, and pride in what they do, moving forward. Bonnet also cited the importance of leadership.

Accountability is also the biggest improvement Bonnet said he would like to see the team make this season.

“When they know they can rely on each other, and know they are going to be there for each other, it takes a lot of weight off their shoulders,” Bonnet said.

NEWELL football schedule Aug. 28, 7 p.m. ...............................at Lemmon Sept. 4, 6 p.m. .hosting Jones County/White River Sept. 11, 7 p.m. ....................... at Timber Lake Sept. 18, 6 p.m. ....................... hosting Dupree Sept. 25, 6:30 p.m. ......................... at Hill City Oct. 2, 6 p.m. .............................. hosting Bison Oct. 9, 7 p.m.............hosting Harding County

Newell’s football team for the 2020 season includes back row from left: James Duncan, Colton Niles, Colton Burtzlaff, Caleb McGregor, Chase VanDerBoom, Jaden Tennis, Nate Randolph; front row left: Orin Bender, Charlie Clements, Payton Johnston, Neuly Mahaffy, William Juelfs, Gavin Tesch, and Austin Wise. Braiden Shaykett and Andrew Packard are not pictured.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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Page 14

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spearfish girls’ soccer relies on experience

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — Spearfish forged a 2-0 record to open the girls’ soccer season after defeating St. Thomas More 4-3 and Pierre 2-1.

“We’ve got a really good junior class, and they’ve been playing varsity since they were eighth-graders and freshmen,” Spartans’ head coach Katrina Huft said. She is in her fifth season as head coach for the team.

Midfielders Hannah Schoon, Kiara Hunsley, and Dylan Richards; midfielder-defenders Halle Fjelland and Ashley Mailloux; and defenders Tessa Lucas and Natalie Dean comprise that class.

The varsity lineup also includes four seniors: midfielder-defender Maia Pochop, midfielder Grace Walker, goalkeeper Raven Colaiacovo, and midfielder-forward Ella Servaty.

Six other players are on the roster as of press time. Sophomores are midfielder-defender Emilee Hunsley and

midfielder Hanna Bjorkman. Forward Brooke Peotter is in the ninth grade.

Midfielders-defenders Charlie Nickles and Maddie Donovan are eighth-graders. Seventh-grade goalkeeper Lauren Peotter rounds out the roster.

“The way that the girls are working together,” Huft said of the team’s strong suit. “They’ve played together for a lot of years.”

Huft said it is important for the team to integrate younger players into the varsity culture.

“It’s really difficult, especially these first few weeks of games,” Huft said of the schedule. “We play half of our season in 2 ½, three weeks.”

The Spartans have five home games remaining in the regular season.

They host Huron on Aug. 28, Mitchell on Aug. 29, Sturgis on Sept. 3, Belle Fourche on Sept. 8, and Douglas-Rapid City Christian on Sept. 17.

Huft said the Black Hills Conference

title could come down to which team is in the best shape and can put various combinations together. She sees Spearfish faring well.

Working together as a team, having a positive attitude, and respecting one another spell success for Huft.

Practices officially started Aug. 3.

Weight room sessions and on-field prep work marked those times.

Spearfish finished with six wins, eight losses, and one tie in a 2019 season that ended in the class AA playoffs.

The Spartans fell 5-1 to Rapid City Central.

Lyndey Dean, Izzy DiGioia, Taya Lucas, Tiffany Valentine, and Olivia Williams graduated from that squad.

“The biggest thing is just that experience,” Huft said of the building blocks for this year. That has included two straight state tournament appearances.

As for improvements, Huft said, she would like to see the squad continue to play its game.

SPEARFISH girls soccer schedule Aug. 28, 4 p.m. .........................hosting Huron Aug. 29, TBA .........................hosting Mitchell Sept. 3, 4 p.m. ..........................hosting Sturgis Sept. 8, 6 p.m. ..............hosting Belle Fourche Sept. 15, 4 p.m. ..................................at Sturgis Sept. 22, 4 p.m. ......................at Belle Fourche Sept. 26, 9 a.m. ......at Rapid City- Sioux Park

(RC Central)

(RC Stevens)

Sept. 29, 4 p.m. ......at Rapid City- Sioux Park

The Spearfish varsity girls’ soccer team features back row from left: assistant coach Zoie Jones, Emilee Hunsley, Ashley Mailloux, Maia Pochop, Hannah Schoon, Halle Fjelland, Brooke Peotter, Tessa Lucas, student manager Carolina Anderson, assistant coach Brandi Roetzel, head coach Katrina Huft; middle row left: Ella Servaty, Kiara Hunsley, Raven Colaiacovo, Dylan Richards, Grace Walker; front row left: Charlie Nickles, Hannah Bjorkman, and Maddie Donovan.

Natalie Dean and Lauren Peotter are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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Fall 2020

Page 15

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spearfish soccer team returns experience

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — Five returning starters have helped the Spearfish varsity boys’ soccer team win its first two games this season.

Junior midfielder Yohannes Petersen, senior midfielder Dominic De Saro, senior goalkeeper Gabe Knudson, senior striker Brock Bacon, and senior striker Bridger Roberdeau have helped Spearfish topple St. Thomas More 6-1 and Pierre 2-0 to open the campaign.

Jim Hill is in his 18th season as Spearfish head coach.

Midfielder Fernando Lara Lopez and midfielder Ben Wise represent the senior class. Juniors are defenders Bridger Meyer, Robert Erskin, Clay Donovan, and Jensen Damberg; midfielders Logan Larsen and Tyler Borchgrevink; and strikers AJ Covell and Lucas Rodgers.

Seven of the players are sophomores: midfielders Rudy Isburg, Dago Rodriguez, Tate Schatz, Reagan Niesent, and Christian McCarty; defender Nick Wise; and striker Connor Kline.

Midfielders in the ninth grade are Ayden Verhulst, Kaleb Ranek, Jayden Domogalski, Max Engen, Riley Skavang, and Riley Swisher. Ninth-grade strikers

are Nathan Allred and Brody Janvrin, defender Lucas Skoglund, and goalkeeper Kellan Scott.

Eighth-graders are midfielder Layke Roberdeau and Matt Currier, and defender Leo Isburg.

“Probably the strong suit is the ability to play quickly when you want to,” Hill said in describing the Spartans’ strengths.

Hill said that physicality is something the team must work on as games progress. He added the Spartans do not deal with that very well.

“It’s the schedule we have to play,” Hill said of a slate that includes Rapid City schools, Sioux Falls foes, and others.

“They all bring something to the table that we’ll have to deal with each time we play.”

Spearfish’s regular-season schedule includes five more home games. The Spartans will host Huron on Aug. 28, Mitchell on Aug. 29, Sturgis on Sept. 3, Belle Fourche on Sept. 8, and DouglasRapid City Christian on Sept. 17.

Hill tabbed Sturgis as a Black Hills Conference favorite, saying the Scoopers have battled Spearfish tough in the recent past.

Spearfish stacks up well against oth-

er conference teams: Douglas, Belle Fourche, and St. Thomas More, Hill said.

“Success is getting ourselves well into the state tournament,” Hill said. He added a team needs a few lucky bounces to reach a title game.

Practice sessions officially began on Aug. 3. Early workouts included a little bit of everything, including touches on the ball.

Spearfish finished with 11 wins, three losses, and one tie during the 2019 season. The Spartans fell 2-1 to Yankton in a Class AA tournament opener.

Cash Clendenen, Carson Isburg, Jackson Jones, James Odenbach, Holden Owen, Ryan Peldo, and Ryan Rafferty graduated from that squad.

Hill said the returning players for this season must take one game at a time and not look past any opponent.

Concentration during the game, and not letting up, is something Hill said needs improvement from last season to this.

“We gave up the goal against Yankton (in the playoff) right before the half,” Hill said. That tied he score 1-1 and, in Hill’s words, “emotionally just crushed us.”

SPEARFISH boys soccer schedule Aug. 28, 6 p.m...........................hosting Huron Sept. 3, 6 p.m............................hosting Sturgis Sept. 8, 6 p.m................hosting Belle Fourche Sept. 15, 6 p.m...................................at Sturgis Sept. 22, 6 p.m.......................at Belle Fourche Sept. 26, 11 a.m. .... at Rapid City- Sioux Park

(RC Central)

(RC Stevens)

Sept. 29, 6 p.m.......at Rapid City- Sioux Park

The Spearfish boys’ soccer team includes back row from left: Fernando Lara Lopez, Logan Larsen, Robert Erskin, Dominic De Saro, Lucas Rodgers, Brock Bacon, Ben Wise, Lucas Skoglund, Nathan Allred, Gabe Knudson; third row left: Yohannes Petersen, Nick Wise, Tyler Borchgrevink, Rudy Isburg, Clay Donovan, Bridger Roberdeau, Jayden Domogalski, Kaleb Ranek; second row left: Bridger Meyer, Kellen Scott, Brody Janvrin, Tate Schatz, Connor Kline, Layke Roberdeau, Ayden Verhulst, Leo Isburg; front row left: AJ Covell, Matt Currier, Dago Rodriguez, Riley Swisher, Max Engen, and Riley Skavang. Christian McCarty, Reagan Niesent, Jensen Damberg, and head coach Jim Hill are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

Page 16

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Bronc girls’ soccer team seeking to improve

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer BELLE FOURCHE — Belle Fourche has endured a rough start to its varsity girls’ soccer season.

The Broncs fell to Rapid City Central and Douglas to open the season by a combined 11-0 count.

Senior defender Addelaine Shockey, senior defender Jazmyn Hunt, junior defender Dru Keegan, senior midfielder Lauren Albrecht, and sophomore midfielder Tori Brill are among the key players for head coach Rob Creed.

He is in his second season here.

Eleven other players are on the roster as of press time.

Goalkeeper-defender Heather Mitchell represents the senior class.

Juniors are forward Emilee Farghali, midfielder Alexis Allen, and defender-midfielder Reese McKenna.

Jessica Dudley (forward) and Ava Walker (midfielder) are sophomores.

Goalkeeper-defender Issy Larson is in the ninth grade.

Forward-midfielders Isabella Stone

and Peyton Staley, along with defender-midfielder Lydia Main, are eighth-graders. Seventh-grader Jazlyn Olson (forward-midfielder) rounds out the roster.

“We are basically in our sophomore year with me being a coach,” Creed said. “The ability to pass and move the ball around is definitely showing.”

Creed said the Broncs are focusing on speed this season. He added players are doing a lot of drills in attempting to improve that.

Conditioning and ball skill are two other areas that Belle Fourche needs to improve, said Creed.

Belle Fourche’s schedule is similar to that of 2019 and is rather difficult, according to Creed. The slate also includes Sturgis, St. Thomas More, Spearfish, Rapid City Stevens, and West Central.

The Broncs have three more home games during the regular season.

They are against Sturgis on Aug. 25, St. Thomas More on Sept. 12, and Spearfish on Sept. 22.

Spearfish, St. Thomas More, Sturgis, and Douglas are with Belle Fourche in the Black Hills Conference.

“We’re going to play as hard as we can,” Creed said in describing those games. “Last year, we had a loss and a draw with each of those schools.”

Belle Fourche recorded two wins, eight losses, and three ties last season, missing the Class A tournament.

Seniors graduating from the program were Makenna Ward, Savannah Rosales, Jayme Peterson, Bree Pierce, and Kailyn Creed.

Creed defined 2020 success as winning a couple more games than in 2019.

He also cited continuing to work hard.

Practice sessions officially began Aug. 3. Focal points included skills and conditioning.

“Everything we did last year is exactly the same as what we’re working on this year,” Creed said. He added it is clear the players have picked up well on it.

BELLE FOURCHE girls soccer schedule Aug. 28, 5 p.m. ........................at West Central Aug. 29, 12:30 p.m. ..............at Dakota Valley Sept. 1, 5 p.m. .................at Dakota Fields- RC

(St. Thomas More)

(RC Stevens)

Sept. 8, 6 p.m. ................................at Spearfish Sept. 12, 11 a.m..... hosting St. Thomas More Sept. 17, 4 p.m. ..................................at Sturgis Sept. 19, 11 a.m. ... at Rapid City- Sioux Park

Sept. 22, 4 p.m.....................hosting Spearfish

This season’s Belle Fourche varsity girls’ soccer team includes, back row left: head coach Rob Creed, Peyton Staley, Emilee Farghali, Reese McKenna, Issy Larson, Ava Walker, assistant coach Rebekah Ruby; middle row left: Isabella Stone, Jazlyn Olson, Lauren Albrecht, Heather Mitchell, Dru Keegan, Alexis Allen; front row left: Lydia Main, Jessica Dudley, Addeline Shockey, and Tori Brill. Jazmyn Hunt is not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

Good Luck to All Area Athletes

GOOD LUCK

!

S C N O R B

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Fall 2020

Page 17

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Bronc boys’ soccer team off to 2-1 start

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer BELLE FOURCHE — Belle Fourche won two of its first three games during the current boys’ soccer season and has already matched its 2019 season total.

The Broncs defeated Hot Springs 11-0, fell 8-0 to Rapid City Central, and doubled up Douglas/Rapid City Christian by a 6-3 score. Belle Fourche finished with two wins, 11 losses, and one tie last season and did not qualify for the Class A playoffs.

“They’re playing exceptionally well as a team,” first-year head coach Anthony Carbajal said in describing the Broncs’ efforts. “I’m personally very happy with the results so far.”

Carbajal said Belle Fourche boasts a very strong lineup returning from last season. Players include senior attacking midfielder Josiah Trimble, junior left-front player Ethan Jensen, junior center-front player Charles Alberts, eighth-grade right-front player Drake Sutter, junior attacking midfielder Tristin Hendricks, senior left-back player Conrad Schreier,

sophomore right-back player Brayden Carbajal, sophomore center-back player Anthony Staley, ninth-grade center-back player Ethan Staley, ninth-grade defense-midfielder Aiden Voyles, and junior goalkeeper Hunter Cherveny.

Ten other players are on the varsity roster as of press time. They are junior defender Elijah Pomrenke; sophomore defender Radley Wendt; ninthgrade right-front player Harley Rivera; ninth-grade defender-midfielder Cody Foos; eighth-grade defender Isaac Voyles; eighth-grade midfielder Eli Sechser; eighth-grade goalkeeper-defender-midfielder Landon Harwood; and seventh-grade forwards Hunter Brown, Griffin Biehl, and Josh Brill.

“What really stands out to me as a strength with this team is the way they have bonded,” coach Carbajal said. He added they also spend much time together away from the field.

Carbajal said the team has some things to fine-tune, including finishing at the goal. He added the team pressures its defensive line to shut down opponents.

Belle Fourche has a strong schedule in Carbajal’s eyes. It included recent games against Groton Area and Sioux Falls Christian. St. Thomas More, Rapid City Stevens, and Sturgis are among the other opponents.

The Broncs’ regular-season schedule included eight home games, including the Sept. 29 finale against Hot Springs.

Other home games feature Sturgis, Aug. 25; James Valley Christian, Sept.

4; and Spearfish, Sept. 22.

Carbajal is new to this coaching position and said he doesn’t have a strong view of the other Black Hills Conference teams. “We’re trying to really instill into the players that they’re going to have to work really hard every game,” he said.

Success is defined by the players staying healthy and continuing to have fun, according to Carbajal. He described soccer as a lifelong sport that even he continues to play and enjoy.

Cruz Kellem, Ethan Jones, Barak Minor, Cordell Seyersdahl, and John Baxendale graduated from last season’s team.

BELLE FOURCHE boys soccer schedule Sept. 1, 5 p.m. .................at Dakota Fields- RC

(St. Thomas More)

(RC Stevens)

Sept. 4, 4 p.m. .hosting James Valley Christian Sept. 8, 6 p.m. ................................at Spearfish Sept. 12, 1 p.m. ...... hosting St. Thomas More Sept. 17, 6 p.m. ..................................at Sturgis Sept. 19, 9 a.m. ......at Rapid City- Sioux Park

Sept. 22, 6 p.m. ...................hosting Spearfish Sept. 29, 4 p.m. ............... hosting Hot Springs

The Belle Fourche varsity boys’ soccer team includes back row from left: Ethan Jensen, Tristin Hendricks, Josiah Trimble, Ethan Staley, Anthony Staley, Elijah Pomrenke, Drake Sutter, Brayden Carbajal, Charles Alberts, Hunter Cherveny, Conrad Schreier; front row left: Radley Wendt, Isaac Voyles, Hunter Brown, Landon Harwood, Harley Rivera, Aiden Voyles, Josh Brill, Griffen Biehl, and Eli Sechser. Cody Foos and head coach Anthony Carbajal are not pictured.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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Page 18

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Lady Scooper soccer team concentrating on playing as a team

By Tim Potts Black Hills Pioneer STURGIS — The young Lady Scooper soccer team will be concentrating this year on doing all things as a team.

“We compete, win, lose, or draw as one unit. We won’t have the luxury on depending on any individual players to bail us out and will need to rely and depend on each other as one full unit of 27 players,” said Adam Fitzpatrick, Sturgis varsity coach. The coaches have always preached a family mentality and this season, with a younger squad and with the uncertainties and odd circumstances we will find ourselves in with COVID, it will be much more vital to their success than it has ever been before.

Adam Fitzpatrick is in his sixth season as head coach and he is assisted by Bryce Richter for the past three years.

The Scooper team will be anchored by Jessica Matthew, a junior, in the middle of the attack. Emilee Willey, a senior and sophomore, Sawyer Dennis, will be key contributors, especially on the attack. Payton Hedderman and Presley Schneider, both seniors, will be the defensive leaders heading into the season.

This year the Scoopers have five players in each of the classes, seniors, juniors, sophomores and freshman, along with four eighth graders and three seventh graders.

Seniors returning include: Emilee Willey, Payton Hedderman and Presley Schneider, McKenna Hosman and Elise Christian.

Fitzpatrick talked about the biggest win last year. “I would say our most important wins came early with our home opener against Belle Fourche and then successive wins against Spearfish and

St. Thomas More. With those games being conference title games and considering we peaked early on in the season it was absolutely crucial to get those wins early to wrap up the conference title.”

Looking at the conference, Coach Fitzpatrick commented that Spearfish is going to provide us the strongest competition in the conference this season, with Belle Fourche and St. Thomas More not being far behind them. Over the past two seasons, the Scoopers have established themselves as the team to beat in the Black Hills Conference, so we know that all of them will be gearing up to give the Lady Scoopers their best shot when they play.

“Overall it’s hard to say that a second conference championship season was a disappointment, but we did leave ourselves plenty of room to grow going into this season,” said Fitzpatrick. “I’d like to see the offense take a step forward this season as we’ll need to improve on our goal scoring overall. The underclassmen will definitely need to step forward and contribute for us to win our third conference title in a row.”

Last year’s record for the Lady Scoopers was five wins, five losses, and three draws.

“I was happy with the beginning of the season as we started very strong. We fell off a bit late in the season which is never something you want to see,” said Fitzpatrick. “I hope that we stay at least consistent through the upcoming season or preferably see that trend reversed to where we finish stronger than we started. I would have loved to see us go deeper into the playoffs but got a tough draw first out against Rapid City Stevens at a time that we weren’t playing our best

game,” he added.

The Scoopers will be without some key seniors for the 2019 team: Avery Bunch, Maggie Reeve, Breezy Paul, Mairen McGrath and Glory Christianson. “The loss of all of these seniors will most definitely be felt this season, however we have a very strong group of seniors this year as well that are looking forward to leaving their mark on this team too,” said Fitzpatrick. “This group of seniors learned quite a bit from last year’s group and I’m confident will lead this team very well this year.”

“From the seventh-graders to the seniors, they truly enjoy each other’s company and want nothing more than to help each other improve and ultimately win,” said Fitzpatrick. The coaches said they received many compliments through the seasons about the team comradery and the good nature of our players. “We are very proud first and foremost of the kind of people that these girls are on the path to becoming. This group represents Sturgis Brown High School well and give us pride to wear the black and white of the Scoopers. We’ve got our sights set on a three-peat for the Black Hills Conference Championship,” said Fitzpatrick.

The Scoopers will opened the season at Belle Fourche.

“This is a great way to test our girls right out of the gate, to travel to Belle Fourche against an excellent conference opponent,” said Fitzpatrick. The Broncs always bring a hard fought, physical game and we don’t see any reason why this year’s group would be any different. The Scoopers believe as long as we can get the attack going right away and gain that early momentum they will be

successful in the first game out this season. “If we allow the Broncs to dictate the pace and put us back on our heels it might be a difficult start to our season,” added Fitzpatrick.

STURGIS BROWN girls soccer schedule Aug. 28, 4 p.m. ......................hosting Mitchell Aug. 29, 10 a.m. ......................hosting Huron Sept. 1, 4 p.m. .......at Rapid City- Sioux Park

(RC Central)

(St. Thomas More)

(Douglas/RC Christian)

Sept. 3, 4 p.m. ...............................at Spearfish Sept. 8, 4 p.m. ....... hosting St. Thomas More Sept. 10, 4 p.m... hosting Douglas/RC Christian Sept. 15, 4 p.m. ..................hosting Spearfish Sept. 17, 4 p.m. ..........hosting Belle Fourche Sept. 22, 5 TBA ..............at Dakota Fields-RC Sept. 29, 6 p.m. ..............................at Douglas

The Sturgis Scooper girls soccer team for 2020 includes, back from left: Bryce Richter, Assistant Coach, Rowan Swift, Maggie Brink, Emilee Willey, Chaylen Murphey, Mikayla Kullbom, Cali Ewing, Sawyer Dennis, McKenna Hosman, and Adam Fitzpatrick, Varsity Coach. Middle row from left: Ryleigh Richter, Student manager, Jordyn Richter, Hope Fiddler, Jenna Burke, Skylar Williamson, Presley Schneider, Elise Christian and Taya Swanson, Student manager Front from left: Keira Muchow, Lily Carlson, Tayah Bertolotto, Jessica Matthew, Braelynn Moser and Carlyn Oster student manager. Not pictured: Payton Hedderman. Pioneer photo by Tim Potts

Fall 2020

Page 19

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Scooper boys soccer will focus on defense as they prepare for season

By Tim Potts Black Hills Pioneer STURGIS — The Sturgis Scooper boys soccer team are concentrating this year on performing better on defense. The team allowed 24 goals last year and they want to lower that number this upcoming season.

Tyler Louder, varsity coach is in his sixth year and has watched this team grow over the past years.

“We are aiming to be a top eight team in the state this year. These boys are in even better shape than previous years and we will continue to be the most fit team in the state,” said Louder. “This year has a chance to be a special one for this group of players,” he added.

The Scoopers will have 17 returning letter winners, of which 14 are seniors: Kale Dennis, Brodie Eisenbraun, Jared Sailer, Thor Sundstrom, Jax Schuster, Ray Henderson, Brody Brink, Taylor Tobias,

Kyle Cutts, Coy Fischer, Travis Cassen, Dominik Smith, Carson Pankratz, Cruz Chavez, Brock Foster, Nathan Salazar, and Dawson Trautman The number of athletes playing soccer this season is 40, with 14 seniors, seven juniors, three sophomores, 10 freshman and six younger athletes.

“This season I think we have a very good chance of being top five in the state and we have the potential to win conference. Having 14 seniors on the soccer team, with nine starters we should be doing pretty good on the field,” said Jared Sailer, senior player. “I’ve been playing with Kale Dennis on varsity since eighth grade, so we both know what our strengths and weaknesses are, so we work very well together on the field,” he added.

Coach Louder talked about the biggest win last year.

“Our biggest win last year was at

home against Central by a score of 3-1.

The previous year we lost 0-7 so to have a nine point turn-around was a pretty huge turning point for our team.” The Scoopers went 6-2 in conference play last year and plan to improve on that.

“We really came into our own last year. The team has a competitive nature that wasn’t as present in past years. We never lost back to back games which was one of our goals, as was improving our record. The team last year was just really focused,” Louder said.

Last year’s record for the Scoopers was 10-4 in the regular season and 0-1 in the playoffs “I was very happy with last year, we had our best record and end of season placement, 10th, since I took over,” said Louder.

The Scoopers opened the season against the Belle Fourche Broncs on Tuesday, Aug. 25.

STURGIS BROWN boys soccer schedule Aug. 28, 6 p.m. ......................hosting Mitchell Aug. 29, 12 p.m. .......................hosting Huron Sept. 1, 6 p.m. ........at Rapid City- Sioux Park

(RC Central)

(St. Thomas More)

(Douglas/RC Christian)

Sept. 3, 6 p.m. ................................at Spearfish Sept. 8, 6 p.m. ........ hosting St. Thomas More Sept. 10, 6 p.m. ... hosting Douglas/RC Christian Sept. 15, 6 p.m. ....................hosting Spearfish Sept. 17, 6 p.m. ............hosting Belle Fourche Sept. 19, 12 p.m. ...................... at Hot Springs Sept. 22, 5 p.m. ................at Dakota Fields-RC Sept. 24, 5 p.m. ............... hosting Hot Springs Sept. 29, 4 p.m. ................................at Douglas

The Sturgis Scooper boys soccer team for the 2020 season, back from left: Tyler Louder, Varsity Coach, Brody Brink, Thor Sundstrom, Brodie Eisenbraun, Carson Pankratz, Kyle Cutts, Kaidyn Meyers, and Paul Smith, Assistant Coach.

Center from left: Karsen Berndt, Jared Sailer, Travis Cassen, Ray Henderson, Taylor Tobias, and Coy Fischer. Front from left: Tallon Kullbom, Jax Schuster, Dominik Smith, and Kale Dennis. Pioneer photo

by Tim Potts

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Page 20

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spearfish girls’ tennis team has new coach

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — The Spearfish girls’ tennis team is working through a transitional phase, as Susie Mondloch is now the head coach. She succeeded Doug Dexheimer, who resigned after 20-plus years.

“I’ve had them before as an assistant coach,” Mondloch said of the players and decision to become a head coach.

“I just thought it would be great to lead them.”

Mondloch helped Dexheimer coach young tennis players for seven years.

She assisted Spartans’ assistant coach Joe Doerges for two years at the middle school level before assisting Dexheimer at the varsity level last year.

“I like that it’s a thinking game,” Mondloch said in describing the sport’s appeal to her. “You can’t just go power your way through.”

Her coaching philosophy is centered on the importance of hard work. She also loves the team aspect and tries to encourage them the best she can while

expecting a lot out of the players.

Love of the sport is critical to Mondloch, who said everyone with whom she has played, has displayed that attitude.

“It’s important for me to show kids you need to love your sport because that’s what makes you get better,” Mondloch said.

Spearfish fell to Rapid City Stevens 9-0 and Rapid City Christian 8-1 in its home opener Aug. 18. The varsity competed at Madison that weekend.

“I think all the players could be key,” said Mondloch, who is in her first head coaching position. She added some players are improving a lot, with others coming right behind them.

Senior Anna Engen is one of the players on the Spartan varsity. Maddy Reichert, Delaney Ensor, Silvee McCoy, and Rebeccah Anglin represent the junior class. Kate Mondloch is in the ninth grade.

Mondloch said attitude, drive and teamwork are the Spartans’ strong suits this season.

Some players need to work on expe-

rience and knowing the game’s angles, according to Mondloch.

“It’s really hard,” Mondloch said in describing the schedule. “We play Rapid City and Brandon Valley — bigger schools.”

Spearfish’s remaining schedule includes trips to Mitchell and Pierre as well as the aforementioned opponents.

The Spartans have only one more home event, a Sept. 17 dual against St. Thomas More at the high school courts.

Rapid City will host the state A tournament Oct. 5-6.

“I think as the season progresses, they’ll stack up much better,” Mondloch said in comparing the Spartans to their opponents.

Mondloch defines success as a lot of hard work in practice and improving each time.

Official practice sessions got underway Aug. 3. Team members worked on endurance, serving, and doubles play.

Mondloch most looks forward to watching the players grow as a team and show pride in themselves.

SPEARFISH tennis schedule Aug. 28, 12 p.m. ................. at RC Invitational Aug. 29, 8 a.m. ................... at RC Invitational Sept. 11, TBA ... at Brandon Valley Jamboree Sept. 12, TBA ... at Brandon Valley Jamboree Sept. 15, 4:30 p.m. ................. at RC Christian Sept. 17, 4 p.m. ...... hosting St. Thomas More Sept. 19, 12 p.m. .............................at Mitchell Sept. 26, 7 a.m. ................................... at Pierre Oc. 4, 4 p.m. ................................at RC Central

The Spearfish girls’ tennis team lined up for a photo before its recent trip to Madison. Pictured from left are Maddy Reichert, Delaney Ensor, Silvee McCoy, head coach Susie Mondloch, Anna Engen, Rebeccah Anglin, and Kate Mondloch. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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Fall 2020

Page 21

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spartan golfers play as a team

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — Highlighting key players provides an impossible proposition for Spearfish head boys’ golf coach Eric Ligtenberg.

“I return five boys that went to state (in 2019),” said Ligtenberg, who is in his 14th season here. “Nobody is more important than the others.”

The core group for the Spartans features seven players. Sam Grout and Dane Burghduff are seniors, with Trey Wood, a junior, and Jack Hight and Josh Sundsted representing the sophomore class.

Parker Reede and Charlie Rasmussen round out that core for the Spartans. Both players are in the eighth-grade.

Grout tied for sixth place at last year’s state AA tournament as the Spearfish team placed 11th. Burghduff, Hight and Sundsted also played at state.

“They have good balance with their roles,” Ligtenberg said in describing the team strength besides that returning experience. “They feel very comfortable with their expectations.”

Grout is the team’s top golfer.

Ligtenberg said Burghduff, Sundsted and Hight are interchangeable at positions 2 through 4. Reede and Rasmussen are developing their experience, according to Ligtenberg.

As for things to work on, Ligtenberg said, all golfers can learn more about course management. That includes a shot’s trajectory, distance and height.

Spearfish’s 2020 schedule is full and includes two home events: an Aug. 27 triangular, and the Sept. 15 Spearfish Invitational.

Hot Springs will host the Black Hills Conference tournament on Sept. 21.

Sioux Falls hosts the state AA tournament Oct. 5-6.

Ligtenberg did not want to sound overconfident but tabbed the Spartans as the Black Hills Conference favorite.

Spearfish has won this tournament two straight years, and he said the team stacks up well against anyone.

He added he would like to see Spearfish in the top half of the state AA tournament standings.

Official practices began Aug. 10.

Some players play to get a base scoring average, and the younger team mem-

bers work on their fundamental skills like chipping and driving.

“The foundation was laid over the summer,” Ligtenberg said when asked what last year’s players can do to start setting the groundwork for this year.

That includes a good number of summer tournaments.

Biggest improvements, Ligtenberg said, may include the fifth and sixth players’ ability to contribute to the team score.

SPEARFISH golf schedule Aug. 31, 9 a.m. ............at Sturgis Invitational Sept. 1, 10 a.m. ... at Hot Springs Invitational Sept. 3, 3 p.m. ...at Meadowbrook West River Challenge Sept. 8, 4 p.m. ... at Belle Fourche Triangular Sept. 10, 9 a.m. .......... at Douglas Invitational Sept. 12, 9 a.m. ..........at Yankton Invitational Sept. 15, 10 a.m...hosting Spearfish Invitational Sept. 18, 9:30 a.m..... at Mitchell Invitational Sept. 21, 10 a.m. ...................... at Hot Springs

Black Hills Conference Sept. 28, 3 p.m. .....................at Sturgis Brown

West River Challenge Oct. 1, 3 p.m. .....at Meadowbrook West River Challenge

The Spearfish varsity boys’ golf team includes back row left: Sam Grout, Dane Burghduff, Josh Sundsted, Trey Wood; front row left: Charlie Rasmussen, Jack Hight, and Parker Reede. Head coach Eric Ligtenberg is not pictured.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

GOOD LUCK ATHLETES! If you can believe it, you can achieve it.

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Page 22

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Digger boys building a foundation for future

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer LEAD — The Lead-Deadwood boys’ golf team has started its second year of rebuilding a program. Retention has been a hallmark of the early going.

“We are still a very young squad. I think we’ve got some good foundation pieces,” head coach Tim Hansen said in assessing the Golddiggers. He added that youth refers to the players’ grade levels and golfing experience.

“Everyone that was out last year came out again this year,” Hansen said. He added last year was about trying to develop the players’ skill levels and game enjoyment.

Hansen said sophomores Ethan Keehn and Walker Vande Velde, along with ninth-grader Ethan Hess, could possibly compete on the varsity level. “This will be a real learning year for all of them,” added Hansen, who is in his fifth season here.

Ninth-grader Isaac Foster, eighth-grader Christian Johnston, eighth-grader Eric Kosters, and sixth-grader Cooper Hansen round out the roster as of press time.

“They all really enjoyed being out on the golf course and playing,” Hansen said in describing the Golddiggers’ strengths. He added they played over the summer and are working on developing their skills.

Players must work on their consistency and short game, Hansen said. He added Lead-Deadwood played a mainly junior varsity schedule last season.

“Going from a JV schedule to playing a varsity schedule will be a big leap for them,” Hansen said. That includes playing 18 holes and walking the course.

The Golddiggers’ schedule is tough for players stepping up to their first varsity season, according to Hansen. He said the area boasts a number of hard courses.

Hot Springs will host the Black Hills

Conference tournament on Sept. 21.

Rapid City’s Hart Ranch hosts the Region 4A tournament Sept. 28.

“The big thing is for them to not let one shot turn into multiples,” Hansen said. He added the mental aspect to keep driving away would be a challenge.

Hansen sees Spearfish, Custer, and St. Thomas More as contenders for the Black Hills Conference title.

“Our goal really isn’t going to be to compare ourselves to other squads,” Hansen said. “Our big focus is going to be on us and our improvement.”

Hansen defined success as improvement and develop scoring consistency.

Lead-Deadwood did not lose anyone to graduation from last season’s team.

Practice sessions officially began on Aug. 10. Focal points included going over the fundamentals.

Hansen said he would like to see last year’s players transition with more confidence into tournament play in 2020.

LEAD-DEADWOOD golf schedule Aug. 27, 3 p.m.................... at Spearfish Invite Aug. 31, 9 a.m.............at Belle Fourche Invite Sept. 1, 10 a.m.... at Hot Springs Pre-Regions Sept. 8 , 3 p.m..............at Belle Fourche Invite Sept. 10, 9 a.m......................at Douglas Invite Sept. 11, 10 a.m...................... at Custer Invite Sept. 15, 9 a.m................... at Spearfish Invite Sept. 18, 4 p.m...............at Custer Triangular Sept. 21, 10 a.m........................ at Hot Springs

Black Hills Conference Sept. 28, 10 a.m..........at Hart Ranch Regions

The Lead-Deadwood boys’ golf team includes from left: Cooper Hansen, Christian Johnston, Walker Vande Velde, Eric Kosters, and head coach Tim Hansen.

Ethan Keehn, Ethan Hess, and Isaac Foster are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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2020 Fall Sports Preview is produced by the Black Hills Pioneer newspaper, 315 Seaton Circle, Spearfish, SD, 57783, (605) 642-2761 • (800) 676-2761 • www.bhpioneer.com Letitia Lister, publisher Mark Watson, managing editor Sona O’Connell, advertising manager Melissa Barnett, layout The publisher will not be responsible or liable for misprints, misinformation or typographic errors herein contained.

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Fall 2020

Page 23

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

State qualifiers guide Bronc boys’ golf team

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer BELLE FOURCHE — Two qualifiers for last season’s state A tournament are guiding the Belle Fourche Broncs in the present boys’ golf season.

Lance Sutter and Alex Voyles return for their senior seasons. Head coach Bill Burr said they contributed a lot, including leadership, last year.

Both qualified for state last year, with Sutter tying for 26th place.

Eight other players are on the roster as of press time; Albert Key is a junior.

Rexton Audiss, Daryn French, Brodie McNeese, Lange Shockey, and Ethan Tyrell are ninth-graders. Seventhgraders are Merik McNeese and Toby Paulsen.

French and Tyrell competed on the team last season. Audiss, Shockey, and Brodie McNeese are newcomers but played some golf during the summer.

“We struggled last year just putting a team together, having enough to compete as a team,” said Burr, who is

in his third season as head coach. The Broncs did not lose anyone to graduation.

“With the kids we’ve got this year, I think we’ll be able to at least build a team at these tournaments,” Burr said.

Four players are needed to compete for team championships.

The Broncs will have to go through the learning experience this season, according to Burr. He said goals include making good contact and using the proper club, he said.

Belle Fourche’s schedule includes four potential trips to Hot Springs.

Rapid City’s Meadowbrook course and Spearfish Canyon Golf Course are others that Burr said could challenge the golfers who have never played there.

Belle Fourche is scheduled to host a quadrangular Sept. 8.

Hot Springs will host the Black Hills Conference tournament Sept. 21, the Region 4A tournament Sept. 28, and the state A tournament Oct. 5-6.

Burr tabbed Custer as the conference

favorite and said St. Thomas More, plus Hot Springs, should also be really solid.

As for how Belle Fourche stacks up in the conference, Burr reiterated the Broncs are really young.

Belle Fourche has already reached a measure of success in Burr’s view.

“The numbers we’ve got out this year are successful for us,” he said. “We weren’t expecting those kids.”

Other “success keys” Burr cited include competing as a team and improving the scores to where the Broncs can be competitive.

Practice sessions officially began on Monday, Aug. 9. Players went to the driving range and worked on the fundamentals, including proper club grip.

The short game also received a lot of emphasis.

“Those seniors (Sutter and Voyles) talked to some of those other kids,” Burr said. “That’s what we need.”

Lessons include what club to use for a given shot.

BELLE FOURCHE golf schedule Aug. 27, 3 p.m........... at Spearfish canyon GC

(Dual)

Sept. 1, 10 a.m...............at Southern Hills GC

(Pre-Region/Hot Springs)

(Quad- Ld/Dwd, Spfsh, Sturgis)

(Douglas Invite)

(Spearfish Invite)

(Tri- Custer, Ld/Dwd)

(Black Hills Conf Invite/Hot Springs)

(Dual- RC Central)

(Region 4A/Hot Springs)

(State A/Hot Springs)

(State A/Hot Springs)

Sept. 8, 4 p.m................... at Belle Fourche GC Sept. 10, 9 a.m................. at Prairie Ridge GC

Sept. 15, 9 a.m..........at Spearfish Canyon GC

Sept. 18, 4 p.m................ at Belle Fourche GC Sept. 21, 10 a.m.............at Southern Hills GC

Sept. 24, 4 p.m................at Meadowbrook GC Sept. 28, 10 a.m.............at Southern Hills GC Oct. 5, TBA......................at Southern Hills GC Oct. 6, TBA......................at Southern Hills GC

The Belle Fourche boys’ golf team for this season features back row from left: Alex Voyles, Lance Sutter, Albert Key, Lange Shockey, Daryn French, Rexton Audiss; front row left, Ethan Tyrell, Toby Paulsen, Merik McNesse, and Brodie McNeese.

Head coach Bill Burr is not pictured.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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Page 24

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Young Scooper golf team prepares for season

By Tim Potts Black Hills Pioneer STURGIS — The Sturgis boys golf team are a group of 13 young golf enthusiast looking to learn the game and become competitive as the season progresses. This will be a building year for the Scoopers with many of the athletes just starting to play the game.

“We are young and inexperienced, and I really want them to learn the game and enjoy it enough, so they see improvement in the short eight-week season we have,” said Steve Keszler,

Sturgis varsity coach. “Then we need for them to carry it over to summer time play, where they want to learn the game and really get better,” he added.

This years team will have two juniors, two sophomores, six freshman, two eight-graders and one seventh grader.

The Scoopers competed in Hot Springs for the season opener. Four of the six on the team have never played competitive golf and several golfed well.

Keszler said a nice surprise at the first meet was Carter Kirk, a fresh-

man, shot a 92, in his first competition ever.

“We are starting from ground zero with the majority of the team, learning golfing etiquette, technical part of the swing, and a lot of the basics,” said Keszler.

COVID 19 has changed a few rules at the meets, which include the golfers don’t exchange cards or remove the pin, don’t shake hands, no awards ceremony, and spectators are asked to stay further away.

The Scooper team has four return-

ing golfers from last season, including, Ben Doten, Evan Stroud, Porter Deering, and Bennet Gordon.

STURGIS BROWN golf schedule Aug. 27, 9 a.m. ................................at Douglas

(Douglas Invite)

(Hot Springs Invite)

(Rapid City Quad)

(Black Hills Invitational)

(Belle Fourche)

(Custer Invite)

(Spearfish Invite)

(Mitchell Invite)

(Black Hills Conference)

(Douglas JV meet)

(West River Challenge)

(West River Challenge)

Sept. 1, 10 a.m. ......................... at Hot Springs

Sept. 3, 4 p.m. ....at Meadowbrook Golf Course Sept. 4, 9 a.m. ....................................at Sturgis

Sept. 8, 4 p.m. ........................at Belle Fourche Sept. 11, 10 a.m. ................................at Custer Sept. 15, 9 a.m. ..............................at Spearfish Sept. 18, 9 a.m. ................................at Mitchell Sept. 21, 10 a.m. ...................... at Hot Springs Sept. 24, 9 a.m. ................................at Douglas Sept. 28, 3 p.m. ..................................at Sturgis Oct. 1, TBA .........at Meadowbrook Golf Course

The Sturgis Scooper boys golf team for 2020 include, back from left: coach Steve Keszler, Reeve Ross, Carter Kirk, Ben Doten, Rylie Smith, Colton Matthews, Kelly Beck, and Clayton Peterson. Front from left: Jace Owens. Evan Stroud, Bennett Gordon, Elijah Stroud, Cade Lemmel, and Porter Deering. Pioneer photo by Tim Potts

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Fall 2020

Page 25

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

BHSU women’s golf excited about 2020 fall season

By Dennis Knuckles Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — COVID-19 ruined the Black Hills State University’s 2020 spring women’s golf season, but the Lady Jackets are excited about showing off their talents this fall.

Black Hills State women’s head golf coach Kelly Welker said the team is excited to hit the links this fall and show they are better than they were last year.

“It’s hard to summarize the 2019 fall season because we had four freshmen in our lineup. Our freshmen were a little nervous, and was hard for them to get used to the whole college scene,” said Welker.

“They were really excited to come out in the spring and fire away. They were ready to compete.”

Welker said it was a hard year for the golfers in terms of wanting to prove themselves, having a young team, and showing people they wanted to play.

“I felt our fall season last year wasn’t as good as our group is capable of, so it was kind of disappointing in the fact they really didn’t get to show how good we are,” Welker said.

Welker said the Lady Jackets added new recruits to the team this fall.

“With the three new additions to our team, our team is only going to be better.

We really hope we get to play and we do get to show people that this is the best team the Black Hills State women’s golf team so far,” she said.

Welker said the team was days away from starting its spring golf season, when officials canceled all spring athletics due to the pandemic.

“They were devastated. You work so hard, and golf is a sport where you have to constantly practice year round or you can lose that skill or that touch very easily if you don’t keep practicing,” said Welker.

“They worked really hard in the off season. We were five days away from playing.

It is disappointing when you put in all that hard work.”

“When you have your season pulled out from under you it’s a tough pill to swallow, but these kids know how to deal with adversity, and I have no doubt that whatever happens this year that they are going to rise above it.”

Welker said she gives kudos to the team

for all their hard work this off season.

“They grind it out and come to practice everyday with a positive attitude,” said Welker. “That can be especially tough when the athletes can only hit a ball into a net inside, as the links are blanketed with snow.”

The Lady Jackets have been playing this summer to prepare for the upcoming season.

“There are some fundamental/technical things that we work with each player based on their swing. We have them spend a lot of time on their short game, but for us it’s more the mental side. It’s kind of been talking with each player one-on-one, and saying OK, how do we get you in a good spot going into the fall,” Welker said.

She said they have been working on ways to try to instill confidence and let them know they are good players and they are capable of competing at this level.

Members of the 2020 BHSU fall women’s golf team are: Jade Burr, Sarah Galles, Nicole Klungness, Jocelyn Olson, Ashtyn Swigart, Mycah Wainscott, and Megan Zigray.

The Lady Yellow Jackets will open the 2020 fall season at the Swan Memorial, Sept. 14-15, in Thornton, Colo., before heading home to host the Yellow Jacket Fall Classic, Sept. 28-29, and then wrapping up fall play at the Samuel Proal Invitational, Oct. 12-13.

BHSU golf schedule Sept. 14-15 .......................... at Swan Memorial Sept. 28-29 ...hosting Yellow Jacket Fall Classic Oct. 12-13........... at Samuel Proal Invitational

The Black Hills State women’s golf team opens its 2020 season Sept. 14-15 at the Swan Memorial, in Thorton, Colo. Team members are: Jade Burr, Sarah Galles, Nicole Klungness, Jocelyn Olson, Ashtyn Swigart, Mycah Wainscott, and Megan Zigray. The team is coached by Kelly Welker. Photos courtesy BHSU Sports information Department

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Page 26

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spartan XC runners readying for season

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — The Spearfish Spartans are getting ready to begin their cross country season Friday, Aug. 28, at the Douglas Invitational.

“I think we have some pretty decent leadership,” Spartans’ head coach Andy VanDeest said in describing the team’s strengths. “We’ve been kind of young in the past, but we have some juniors coming up.”

Key returnees for the boys’ team include junior Keenan Urdiales, who placed 14th at last season’s state Class AA meet.

Sophomore Josie Tobin and eighth-grader Madie Donovan return for the girls’ squad.

The rest of the boys’ roster includes juniors Max Ensor, Finn Hamilton, William Williams, and Jason Palmgren; sophomores Paul Hourigan, Evan Viergets, and Evan Roles; plus ninth-graders Ben Baloun, Shaun Cota, Noah Bailey, and Will Scharf.

Logan Bunney and Diane Glasford represent the senior class on the girls’ team.

Halle Fjelland is a junior.

Elizabeth Van Osdol is a sophomore.

Natalee Bruner, Maria Eisenbraun, Cassidy Ewing, and Anissa Pietzyk are ninth-graders. Madison Viergets is in the eighth grade.

VanDeest said the athletes need to stay injury-free for the first few weeks as they round into shape.

“This year is going to be a little different with all the stuff going on,” VanDeest said of his team’s schedule. He added the Spartans will try to run at the traditional meets but may not attend as many.

The season is scheduled to begin Aug. 28 at Box Elder. Spearfish Invitational action is set for Sept. 4 at Evans Park, with Hot Springs to host the Black Hills Conference meet Oct. 8. Rapid City will host the state AA meet Oct. 24.

VanDeest said Custer and Hill City should battle for the Black Hills Conference girls’ title. He added St. Thomas More would contend in the boys’ division titles, with Sturgis always having good numbers.

“I think we’re going to hold our own,”

The Spearfish girls’ cross country team includes back row from left: Cassidy Ewing, Halle Fjelland, Josie Tobin, Maria Eisenbraun, Natalie Brunner; front row left: Anissa Pietzyk, Madie Donovan, Madison Viergets, and Elizabeth Van Osdol.

Logan Bunney and Diane Glasford are not pictured. Pioneer photos by Jason Gross

VanDeest said when asked how he sees Spearfish matching up against the conference opponents.

As for success, VanDeest said, “Just staying healthy is going to be key. Our main goal in double A is always to crack that top 10, if not top eight (at state).”

Both Spearfish squads placed 13th at state last season.

Official practice sessions began Aug. 13. Runners worked to set a mileage base.

VanDeest was asked what the returning runners can do to start setting a foundation for this season.

“I’m kind of keying on those upperclassmen to get the freshmen motivated,” he said. “It’s to try to get a team atmosphere built and not be individually-based.”

He pointed to that “team atmosphere” when asked about improvements he would like to see.

“Toward the end of last year, we kind of became a whole,” VanDeest said. “I like seeing that team camaraderie and being as one unit instead of a couple of individuals here and there.”

SPEARFISH cross country schedule Aug. 28, 9 a.m. ........... at Douglas Early Bird Sept. 4, 10 a.m........ hosting Spearfish Invite Sept. 10, 12 p.m. ........at Belle Fourche Invite Sept. 17, 2 p.m. ....................... at Custer Invite Sept. 22, 2:30 p.m. ........at Hot Springs Invite Sept. 22, 2:30 p.m. ........at Hot Springs Invite Sept. 29, 2:30 p.m.......... at Lead-Deadwood X-C Invite Oct. 8, 2:30 p.m. ....................... at Hot Springs

Black Hills Conference Oct. 15, 2 p.m. ............... at Hart Ranch Invite

The Spearfish boys’ cross country team includes back row from left: Finn Hamilton, Jason Palmgren, Evan Viergets, Paul Hourigan, William Williams, Keenan Urdiales; front row left, Shaun Cota, Ben Baloun, Will Scharf, Noah Bailey, and Max Ensor. Evan Roles and head coach Andy VanDeest is not pictured.

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Fall 2020

Page 27

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Small numbers for Golddigger XC teams

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer LEAD — Lead-Deadwood brings a small squad into its 2020 cross country season, tentatively set to begin Sept. 4 in Spearfish.

A total of 12 runners are on the rosters as of press time. Girls’ team members are seniors Madelaine Rogers and Zariah Jones, sophomores Clarissa Heisinger and Adrian Lyon, ninth-graders Winter McMahon and Claire Hannah, seventh-grader Nevada McMahon, and sixth-grader Seeley Fuller.

The boys’ roster features senior Taylor Arehart, junior Landon Williams, sophomore James Pierce, and eighth-grader Ezias Nelson.

Golddiggers’ head coach Will Malde

said Pierce and Williams are the key returning boys’ team members, with Pierce qualifying for last season’s state A meet. He listed Rogers, Heisinger, and Jones on the girls’ squad.

“I think we have some good leadership,” Malde said in describing the team’s strong suits heading into the season. He is in his sixth season here.

Malde added Jones and Rogers have a really good work ethic and encourage their teammates. He added Williams and Pierce train together and set an example for their younger teammates.

What will the athletes need to work on as practices and meets progress?

“We have a decent amount of kids put in mileage during the summer, but it’s still just getting more mileage in,” Malde said. He added runners must also

become more comfortable in pushing the pace beyond past levels.

Malde said this season’s schedule will be a bit strange because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

That includes not going to Newcastle for the season-opening meet because of Wyoming’s safety protocols. The Augustana Twilight meet was canceled, which means Lead-Deadwood will compete at Spearfish instead.

“You can say the same thing every year,” Malde said in describing Region 5A. “We have very talented kids in this region.”

Malde said the Golddiggers are excited because they love the Hot Springs course, which hosts the Black Hills Conference met Oct. 8. Lead-Deadwood hosts a Sept. 29 invitational and the

Region 5A meet on Oct. 15.

Custer and Hill City earn Malde’s nods for the Black Hills Conference girls’ title. He tabbed Belle Fourche as a contender in the boys’ division.

Malde said Lead-Deadwood does not have much depth but is working to draw more athletes to the sport. He added individual athletes could compete in the top one-half of the standings.

As for success, Malde said he sees a more cohesive unit and less separation between high school and middle school runners. He added he would love to see the athletes truly believe in what they are doing and increase that cohesiveness.

Official fall workouts started on Aug. 13. Runners focused on building a mileage base and engaged in tempo runs.

Malde said many grew as runners last season. He added he would like to see them build on that in 2020.

Isabel Ward and Pratt Williams graduated from last season’s squads.

LEAD-DEADWOOD cross country schedule

Cross country athletes representing Lead-Deadwood this season include back row from left: James Pierce, Madelaine Rogers, Zariah Jones; front row left: Claire Hannah, Seeley Fuller, Ezias Nelson, and Clarissa Heisinger. Landon Williams, Winter McMahon, Nevada McMahon, Taylor Arehart, Adrian Lyon, and head coach Will Malde are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

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Page 28

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Experienced Broncs, state champ return to XC course

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer BELLE FOURCHE — Belle Fourche’s cross country team brings a wealth of experience and a defending state champion into the 2020 cross country season.

Sophomore Sawyer Clarkson earned top honors at the 2019 state Class A meet.

Junior Cole Hockenbary, sophomore Devin Nowowiejski, and sophomore Nic Lambert also competed at that state meet for the Broncs.

That quartet helped Belle Fourche finish 10th at its first state Class A meet since 1982. Chris Riley is in his sixth year as Broncs’ head coach.

The rest of the boys’ roster as of press time includes senior Isaac McKenney, sophomores Jaden Jensen and Dustin Kolb, ninth-graders Aiden Voyles and Harley Rivera, and eighth-graders Jet Jensen and Zach Tonsager.

The Bronc girls’ team features two runners who earned top-25 finishes at

state. Ava Allen claimed 22nd place, and Allison Hayes was 23rd; both are ninth-graders this year.

Four others are on the girls’ roster: senior Jasmyn Jensen, sophomore Alanah Pomrenke, and ninth-graders Anika Main and Brenna Leitner.

Experience stands out as a strong suit for the Broncs. “Even though we have a ton of upperclassmen, these boys except for Jaden (Jensen) have run a lot of races in the past couple of years.” This is Jensen’s first year in the sport.

Riley said the team needs to work on strength and raw speed as well as aerobic power for long runs.

“Our courses out here tend to be fairly tough,” Riley said in outlining the team’s schedule. He cited courses in Hot Springs, Lead-Deadwood, and Belle Fourche that have a certain amount of climbing.

Riley sees Custer, St. Thomas More, Sturgis, and Rapid City Christian bat-

tling for the Black Hills Conference boys’ title. He said the Broncs should be in the mix but must stay healthy, work hard, and run with confidence.

Hill City and Custer should battle for the girls’ conference title, according to Riley. He said the Bronc girls are pretty strong individually.

“We define success as kids that come as close to their potential as they can,” Riley said.

The Broncs started fall practices Aug. 13 and worked on boosting their aerobic capacity. Younger runners learned about the team’s warmups.

“Hopefully, they have some confidence, because we had some kids do awesome stuff last year,” Riley said in looking toward this season. He would like to see the athletes compete and enjoy themselves without thinking about things too much.

Megen Keegan, Harley Fischer, and Ethan Jones graduated from last season’s squads.

The Belle Fourche boys’ cross country team includes back row from left: Isaac McKenney, Dustin Kolb, Devin Nowowiejski, Cole Hockenbary; front row left: Jet Jensen, Jaden Jensen, Sawyer Clarkson, and Zach Tonsager. Aiden Voyles, Harley Rivera, Nic Lambert, and head coach Chris Riley are not pictured. Pioneer photos by Jason Gross

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BELLE FOURCHE cross country schedule Aug. 28, 9 a.m. ............ at Douglas Early Bird Sept. 4, 10 a.m. ................. at Spearfish Invite Sept. 10, 12 p.m. .........hosting Belle Fourche

Invitational Sept. 24, 3 p.m. ................at Brookings Invite Sept. 29, 2:30 p.m.......... at Lead-Deadwood X-C Invite Oct. 8, 2:30 p.m. ....................... at Hot Springs

Black Hills Conference Oct. 15, 2:30 p.m. ..... Lead-Deadwood Region

The Belle Fourche girls’ cross country team includes back row left: Alanah Pomrenke, Jasmyn Jensen, Brenna Leitner; front row left: Anika Main, Allison Hayes, and Ava Allen.

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Fall 2020

Page 29

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Sturgis cross country team anxious and excited for season

By Tim Potts Black Hills Pioneer STURGIS — The Sturgis Scooper cross country teams started training on Aug. 17, and the COVID pandemic changed things up, even in a naturally social distant sport like cross country.

“There are many new mandates, such as participant monitoring of each athlete before every practice, running in assigned pods for contact tracing, and wearing masks during transportation,” said Blake Proefrock, Sturgis varsity coach.

Proefrock has been the varsity coach now for six seasons and is pleased with having 12 returning letter winners on the team, including: Josie Kaufman, Haley Ferguson, Brady Buchholz, Taylor Tobias, Logan DeSersa, Traeton Monahan, Jessica Matthew, Ray Henderson, Kain Peters, Beck Bruch, Deron Graf, and Morgan Papenfus.

“Nearly our entire boys team is returning and they were very strong one year ago. We have great senior leadership and a plethora of young talent that all feel like they have something to prove,” Proefrock said.

“We always have really great kids in our program and many did put in quite a few miles over the summer, so we are anxious and excited for this season,” Proefrock said.

Graduating seniors from the 2019 team that will be missed include: Nate Anderson, placed in the top 25 at state last season, Breezy Paul, and Blane Breth. Last season the boys took ninth place at the state meet and the girls placed 16th.

The boys team should be very strong and they hope that to be competing near the top of the conference. The girls team will need to build with some added youth to be competitive by the end of the season.

“I think we have a pretty big potential, the team is looking pretty deep and our goal is to win the conference and place at state,” said Traeton Monahan, a senior runner.

Coach Proefrock said he was extremely hopeful and cautiously optimistic on the season and wants so badly for it to simply be completed.

Many of these same athletes lost out on a track season so especially for the seniors, it would be great to be able to compete the entire season.

“Overall we have great kids that work extremely hard. We want to just get better each week, stay healthy, and be at our best when it counts the

most,” said Proefrock.

The Scoopers will start the season on Aug. 28, at the Douglas Patriots meet.

STURGIS BROWN cross country schedule

Lady Scooper 2020 cross country team, back from left: Jessica Matthew Novali Dinkins Josie Kaufman, and Haley Ferguson. Front from left: Paige Willnerd, Tori Williams, Iris Zylstra, and Josie Reedy.

Aug. 28, 9 a.m. ............ at Douglas Early Bird Sept. 10, 12 p.m.....................at Belle Fourche

Invitational Sept. 17, 2 p.m. ...................... at Custer Invite Sept. 22, 2:30 p.m. ........at Hot Springs Invite Sept. 25, 2 p.m. ....at Hart Ranch Invitational Oct. 8, TBD ................................ at Hot Springs

Black Hills Conference

The Sturgis Scooper boys 2020 cross country team, back from left: Blake Proefrock, Varsity Coach, Ray Henderson, Beck Bruch, Traeton Monahan, Brady Buchholz, Tayten Smeenk, Deron Graf, and Scott Peterson, Assistant Coach. Front from left: Logan DeSersa, Marty Jones, Brooks Brandner, Gavin Dunn, Ty Petrocco, Morgan Papenfus, and Taylor Tobias .Not pictured: Connor Lurz and Kain Peters.

Pioneer photos by Tim Potts

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Page 30

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Newell XC squads to mix experience levels

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer NEWELL — Newell’s cross country teams are looking forward after a season in which both squads earned top-five status at the state B meet.

“We’re going to look to the experience of the runners that have been on the team for these last few years,” said Irrigators’ head coach Kyle Sanderson. “We have a lot of new and inexperienced runners coming up.”

Only three runners return from last year. Junior Garrett Winkler is the most experienced returnee from the boys’ team, with senior Lexa Burtzlaff and ninth-grader Rachel Erk on the girls’ team.

Winkler placed 21st at last season’s state meet. Burtzlaff claimed 24th-place honors.

Eight boys and six girls complete the rosters as of press time.

The boys’ squad also includes senior Wyatt Winkler; juniors Caleb McGregor, Elijah Stomprud, and David Morell;

plus eighth-graders David Kirby, Blaise McGregor, and Clint Winkler.

Sophomores Sarah Kirby and Stacy Mahaffy, ninth-grader Rachel Erk, and sixth-graders Bethany Mahaffy and Cody Winkler comprise the rest of the girls’ roster.

“Right now, we’re kind of gauging where everyone is, fitness-wise,” said Sanderson, who is in his eighth season here.

Newell’s schedule will include some bigger meets, such as the Belle Fourche Invitational. Sanderson said the lineup includes high-quality Black Hills Conference teams as well as some from Wyoming and North Dakota.

“The competition is pretty high, and that helps us kind of get ready for those state meets,” Sanderson said. He added other meets allow the Irrigators to see their fellow Little Moreau Conference teams.

Sanderson sees an open race in the conference. He sees Timber Lake as Newell’s biggest competition in both divisions,

The Newell girls’ cross country team features, back row left, Rachel Erk, Lexa Burtzlaff, Stacy Mahaffy, Sarah Kirby; front row left, Bethany Mahaffy and Cody Winkler.

Pioneer photos by Jason Gross

with Lemmon having some younger quality runners.

“We’re going to deal with progression and hopefully some personal-best times,” Sanderson said in describing success for this season. “We’re also going to be looking at finishes.”

Sanderson said judging successes would require a week-by-week, month-bymonth approach. He added it is unknown what the season will look like in a few weeks.

What can returning athletes use to start building a foundation for this season?

“I think a lot of motivation, seeing what they’re capable of,” Sanderson said.

He added early doubt in 2019 developed into contending teams when state rolled around.

As for improvements, Sanderson talked about staying sharp and competitive midrace.

Austin Alexander and Nathaniel Kirby graduated from last season’s squads.

NEWELL cross country schedule Aug. 28, 9 a.m. ................................at Douglas Sept. 4, 10 a.m. .......................... at Faith/LMC Sept. 10, 3 p.m. ......................at Belle Fourche Sept. 18, 2 p.m. .............hosting Newell Invite Sept. 25, 9 a.m. ................ at Rapid City Invite Sept. 28, 3:30 p.m. ............. at Lemmon Invite Oct. 1, 1 p.m. ......................................at Sturgis Oct. 2, 1 p.m. ........................... at Timber Lake Oct. 10, 10 a.m. ...................................at Philip Oct. 14, 12 p.m. ..................... at Philip Region

This season’s Newell boys’ cross country squad includes, back row left, Wyatt Winkler, Elijah Stomprud, David Morell, Garrett Winkler; front row left, Blaise McGregor, Clint Winkler, and David Kirby. Caleb McGregor is not pictured.

It’s Lining Up to be Another Great Sports Season!

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Fall 2020

Page 31

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

BHSU cross country racing on despite pandemic

By Dennis Knuckles Black Hills Pioneeer SPEARFISH — Scott Foley enters his second season as the Black Hills State University head cross country coach.

Foley described the 2019 cross country season as a educational process for him and the athletes.

“Last year I thought it was a pretty good learning process. It was my first year back at Black Hills State. I was an assistant to Coach (Scott) Walkinshaw for three years,” Foley said. “Then I was able to get the head coaching job

at Chadron State, and when Coach Walkinshaw retired I was able to come back here and it was kind of a sweet homecoming for me.”

Foley said it was nice to return after a year’s absence to coach some of the kids he recruited, but the year was a tough one for the Yellow Jacket harriers.

“It was tough coming off of a really senior dominated team from the year before, where both the men’s and women’s teams made nationals,” said Foley.

“We had a lot of good runners. Our

fourth and fifth runners on the men’s side were a sophomore and a true freshman, so I thought it was really good for them to learn from the few seniors that was left over from than national team and I thought it was a pretty good building year.”

With the COVID-19 pandemic still going strong, Foley said it has been challenging to prepare for the upcoming season.

“It’s been a day-to-day process. It’s kind of a fluent situation where it’s constantly changing,” said Foley. “I

Pictured are members of the 2020 Black Hills State University cross country team, front row left: Nolan Maher, Wyatt Dooley, Addison Red Fox, Landon Nicholson, Ryan Rafferty, Erica Dykstra, Angela Hovdenes, and Allison Rief. Middle row left: Timothy Brown, Lincoln Fleischman, Christian Gaytan, Marcos Valerio, Matt Parker, Ruby Lindquist, Xiomara Robinson, and Kelsey Van Den Hemel. Back row left: Collin Brauer, Keith Osowski, Noah Bordewyk, Mayson Hudyma, Morgan Wald, Taylor Lundquist, and Sylvia Brown. They are coached by head coach Scott Foley, and assistant coach Seth Mischke. Pioneer photo by Dennis Knuckles

GhisOsOp DtsLsUeaCsKon

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to

BHSU cross country schedule Sept. 18, 6 p.m.......hosting Gage McSpadden Memorial Oct. 24, TBD...........at RMAC Championships

in Golden, CO

Good Luck to All Area Athletes!

area athletes!

ALL

CONSIGNMENT & PET SUPPLY

feel like once we get something figured out, a week later whether it’s the NCAA or the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, or the state, they change something, it’s been nice to work with such flexible athletes who have a positive attitude about it,” Foley said.

On Aug. 19 Black Hills State announced the cancelation of four meets on their 2020 schedule due to precautions surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

The four events canceled include: the Hardrocker Classic in Rapid City, (Sept.

5), Roy Griak Invite in St. Paul, Minn.

(Sept. 26), Roadrunner Invite in Denver, Colo. (Oct. 3) and the Yellow Jacket Invite in Billings, Mont. (Oct. 9).

The NCAA has canceled the national meet for safety concerns.

Two meets currently remain as scheduled for the Yellow Jackets with the BHSU-hosted Gage McSpadden Memorial still slated for Friday, Sept. 18 at the Spearfish Canyon Golf Club, and the RMAC Championships scheduled for Oct. 24 in Golden, Colo.

Foley said the NCAA has said if athletes can’t get in more than 50% of their season they get ther eligibility back.

“So it’s kind of a free year for some of these kids to get some experience in, without maybe having to waste a year of eligibility where they wouldn’t have the opportunity to compete a regional or national meet,” Foley said.

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Page 32

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Fall 2020

BHSU rodeo gearing up for fall season

By Dennis Knuckles Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — The Black Hills State rodeo team begins its 2020-21 rodeo season beginning in September.

“We have three weekends in a row starting Sept. 17 where we have double rodeos at three different locations. The silver lining is we get to have a lot of rodeos in a short period of time, and a lot less travel,” said Glenn Lammers, BHSU’s head rodeo coach.

In the 2019 fall season, the BHSU rodeo team had a lot of success, with the women’s team finishing the fall season ranked No. 1 in the nation.

“The women’s team got the momentum rolling early and kept it going all season,” said Lammers. “It was kind of a combination of the veterans and having newcomers step up and have an impact early.”

Then COVID-19 hit, causing the spring season and the College National Rodeo Finals to be canceled.

Lammers said the team didn’t take the news well.

“The cancelation of the spring rodeo season was a bit disappointing for them, but they understood why the decisions that were made, were made,” Lammers said.

Lammers said he tries to get his team in the right frame of mind to deal with any obstacles that come their way.

“I try to instill in them not to focus on the problem, but try to find a way to make this work, and those words almost came back to bite me after they were canceling event after event, because they were coming up with ideas of ‘what if we do this,’ ‘what if we do that,’ said Lammers.”

Lammers credited last year’s team with being resiliant, and though they lost some key seniors, but he thinks this year’s team will farewell.

“The ones that were here last year have to reset, and that’s a little bit dif-

ferent for everybody, but they have to look forward and starting getting prepared,” said Lammers. “We had our first team meeting Aug. 19, and what I wanted to instill in our team was that this could be their big season, and we want to be prepared.”

Lammers said the team is anxious to get rodeoing again.

“We have to get back to practicing, get to rodeos, and see how we do,” Lammers said.

Lammers said at the meeting he left his team with one more piece of advice.

“Don’t overthink it, just do the best you can,” Lammers said.

The rodeo season will open with doubleheaders at North Platte Community College Sept. 17-19; Iowa Central Community College, Sept. 2426; and Dickinson State; Oct. 1-3, and they will finish the fall rodeo season at Iowa State, Nov. 6-7.

Each doubleheader will open with

a single go-round event on Thursday, concluding Friday morning. The second rodeo will begin with a long go-round Friday and a short go-round Saturday night.

BHSU rodeo schedule Sept. 17-19 ... at North Platte Community College Sept. 24-26... at Iowa Central Community College Oct. 1-3................................. at Dickinson State

The Black Hills State rodeo team begins its 2020 fall season Sept. 17-19 at North Platte Community College. Rodeo team members are: Tayle Brink, Wacey Brown, Kassidy Caspers, Riley Donnelly, Sydney Fuerst, Meza Ham Brooklyn Hanson, Taylor Hanson, Savana Johnston, Chanci Kraft, Cashae McGee, Emilee Pauley, Courtney Peters, Jaycie Rau, Sophie Sanquist, Madison Smith, Sydney Theobald, Taylor Thorstenson, Karli Verhulst, Jaicee Williams, Hunter Anderson, Mason Bice, Tucker Chytka, Chandler Comfort, Tanner Fite, Tayte Goodman, Riley Hannum, Dalton Magilke, Brett Mattson, Collin Palmer, Riley Staton, and Will VanLishout. The team is coached by Glenn Lammers. Photo courtesy BHSU Sports Information Department

Good Luck to All Area Athletes

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Wishing all area athletes a great season!

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Fall 2020

Page 33

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

2020 Spearfish High School cheerleaders

Spearfish’s cheerleading squad for this fall includes back row left: Kaitlyn Irvin, Annora Garness, Amara Termes, Chloe Drolc; middle row: Chayse Keller; front row left: Shanna Ball, Alira Termes, Lele Enos, and Lillie Pridie. Sandra Danielson is not pictured. Courtesy photo

2020 Spearfish High School competitive dance team

SPEARFISH competitive dance schedule Sept. 3, 5 p.m....at Belle Fourche Invitational Sept. 5, 10 a.m.............. at Pierre Invitational Sept. 12, 10 a.m.......... at Winner Invitational Sept. 14, 5 p.m.... hosting Spearfish Invitational Sept. 21, 5 p.m..............at Custer Invitational Sept. 26, 11 a.m....at RC Stevens Invitational Sept. 28, 5 p.m.............at Sturgis Invitational Oct. 5, 5 p.m.....at Lead/Deadwood Invitational Oct. 10, 11 a.m........... at Douglas Invitational Oct. 17, 5 p.m........................at Sturgis Brown

Black Hills Conference

Spearfish’s competitive dance team for this fall includes back row left: Kaelei Kapust, Aly Wilde; front row left: Nevaeh Foster and Kate Heine. Head coach Julie Stewart is not pictured. Stewart said the team will not be able to enter competitions this season because at least six members are needed.

She added the team will perform at events like homecoming, pep rallies, and halftime of certain athletic events. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

Have a Great Season!

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717 N. 5th St., Spearfish • 605.642.4473

Page 34

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

2020 Lead-Deadwood competitive dance tean LEAD-DEADWOOD competitive dance schedule Sept. 3, 5 p.m....at Belle Fourche Invitational Sept. 14, 5 p.m.........at Spearfish Invitational Sept. 21, 5 p.m..............at Custer Invitational Sept. 26, 11 a.m....at RC Stevens Invitational Sept. 28, 5 p.m......................at Sturgis Brown

Spirit Competition Oct. 5, 5 p.m..at Lead/Deadwood Invitational Oct. 10, 11 a.m........... at Douglas Invitational Oct. 17, 5 p.m........................at Sturgis Brown ....................................... Black Hills Conference

The Lead-Deadwood competitive dance team features from left: Alexandria Valenzuela, Raelie Williams, Delanie Bertlund, Nevada McMahon, Winter McMahon, and Cameran Stoflet. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

2020 Lead-Deadwood cheerleaders

Lead-Deadwood’s cheerleading squad features from left: Alexandria Valenzuela, Miranda Kearns, Cameran Stoflet, Delabie Bertlund, and Chloe Myers. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

Good Luck Area Athletes!

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Fall 2020

Page 35

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

2020 Sturgis Brown competitive cheerleaders

STURGIS BROWN competitive cheer schedule Aug. 29, 9 a.m. ....... at Aberdeen Invitational Sept. 3, 5 p.m. .... at Belle Fourche Competition Sept. 12, 11 a.m. ........ at Winner Invitational Sept. 14, 5 p.m. ........at Spearfish Invitational Sept. 26, 11 a.m. .............................Rapid City

(Stevens Invite)

Sept. 28, 5 p.m. ........................hosting Sturgis

Spirit Competition Oct. 10, 11 a.m. ............. Douglas Invitational Oct. 15, 5 p.m. ..................hosting Black Hills

Conference Competition

The 2020 Sturgis Scooper competitive cheer team include, back from left: Holly Pates, Ashley Bear, Sam Reicher, Rio Snyder, Jamie Munger, Emma Issacson, Zo Snyder, and Kaylin Snow. Center from left: Torri Buus, Kiara Rath, Isabel Castillo, Audrey Bates, Arianna Gorczewski, Ashlyn Krcil, McKyla Tarrent, and Jacy Thompson. Front from left: Lilly Forbes, Sierra Hopkins, Haley Mooney, Mya Jordan, Zara Wallace, Ashley Standen, and McKenzie Tarrent. Brooke Passolt, Coach. Pioneer photo by Tim Potts

2020 Sturgis Brown competitive dance team

STURGIS BROWN competitive dance schedule Aug. 29, 9 a.m. ....... at Aberdeen Invitational Sept. 3, 5 p.m. .... at Belle Fourche Competition Sept. 12, 11 a.m. ........ at Winner Invitational Sept. 26, 11 a.m. .............................Rapid City

The Sturgis Dance team for 2020 include, back left: Breanna Whitford, Rio Snyder, Mariah Spring and Ciara Romey. Front from left: Torre Buus, Kiara Rath, Gracie Williams, and Jess Teigen.

Pioneer photo by Tim Potts

HEART. TALENT.

DEDICATION. We salute our area athletes for their excellent performance as individuals and teams.

Good luck this season!

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Spirit Competition Oct. 5, 5 p.m.... Lead-Deadwood Competition Oct. 10, 11 a.m. ............. Douglas Invitational Oct. 15, 5 p.m. ..................hosting Black Hills

Conference Competition

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Page 36

Fall 2020

SPORTS PREVIEW/ BLACK HILLS PIONEER

2020 Belle Fourche cheerleaders

BELLE FOURCHE competitive cheer schedule Sept. 3, 5 p.m. ...hosting Belle Fourche Invite Sept. 14, 5 p.m................... at Spearfish Invite Sept. 21, 5 p.m........................ at Custer Invite Sept. 26, 11 a.m. ............ at RC Stevens Invite Sept. 28, 5 p.m. ..................... at Sturgis Invite Oct. 10, 11 a.m. ....................at Douglas Invite Oct.15, 5 p.m. .......................at Sturgis Brown

Black Hills Conference

Belle Fourche’s cheerleading squad features top row left: Neriah Aiden, Lanee Power, Serena Davis, Aubrie Hobbs; third row left, Hailey Anderson, Ella Carlson, Hailey Rodriguez, Hannah Doyle, Kiana Tingley, Victoria Donovan; second row left: Evelyn Lyons, Evany Estrada, Isabella Jackson; front row: Naomi Bricker.

Photo courtesy of Megan Johnson