Spring Sports Preview 2018

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SPORTS PREVIEW spring 2018

SPORTS PREVIEW

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2018

Spearfish girls’ golf team in rebuilding mode

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — Spearfish’s girls’ golf program is in a rebuilding mode as the 2018 campaign begins.

The Spartans have 25 players, with four on the varsity as of press time. Rachel Jensen and Jenna Geist represent the junior class. Sophomores are Lyric Williams and Baylee Hazledine.

Geist and Jensen each have three state tournament appearances to their credit.

They helped Spearfish finish 13th in the team standings last season.

Williams is a two-time state qualifier for head coach Eric Ligtenberg’s squad, and Hazledine gained experience as a varsity player a season ago.

“They’re going to get a lot of playing time,” Ligtenberg said in addressing the varsity players’ strengths. He added they also get along very well.

Inexperience comprises the biggest part of the Spartans’ equation.

“After those four, the experience really drops down,” Ligtenberg said. He added 20 of the program’s 25 members each have less than one year of experience going into this season.

The short game and mental game are

two other areas of concern for Ligtenberg.

“There are so many highs and lows throughout a round of golf,” he said.

“Mental-game toughness is something that we’re going to be working on throughout the entire season,” Ligtenberg said. He added players have to be in a situation to learn it.

The Spartans move up to the class AA ranks after spending time in class A. Ligtenberg said this does not change the team’s schedule that much.

Spearfish will host four events at Spearfish Canyon Golf Course this season.

A triangular opens the season on April 9, with a quadrangular on April 17 and the Spearfish Invitational on May 1. Spearfish also hosts the West River Challenge’s first round on May 22.

Ligtenberg explained the region tournament is the only one that would change. Class A teams qualify for state through that tournament, with all class AA schools sending a team to state.

“We will see different golfers at state,” Ligtenberg said in describing the effect the change to class AA would have. “That’s really the only thing.”

Spearfish is still a Black Hills Conference team. Hot Springs, Belle Fourche, and St. Thomas More earn Ligtenberg’s nod for top

honors.

Douglas will host the conference tournament on May 10.

Ligtenberg talked about how he sees the Spartans stacking up against conference foes. He said Williams could compete in the top part of the standings, with Geist and Jensen possibly being in the middle bracket and Hazledine being an unknown entity.

How will the Spartans define success in 2018?

“You have to have realistic expectations and goals,” Ligtenberg said. “I want us to be very competitive.”

Ligtenberg said scores better than 50 (nine holes) and 100 (18 holes) move athletes into a better level of golf. He would like to see his players get closer to 45 and 90, respectively.

Official practices began March 26, with the first day devoted to paperwork. Players were able to hit golf balls outside, and the March 28 session featured three indoor stations.

“Starting all the way down to the basics is not going to hurt them, especially with how inexperienced we are,” Ligtenberg said.

Ligtenberg said that Williams, Jensen, and Geist shot their personal-best scores at last season’s state A tournament. Williams

tied for 23rd place in the individual standings, with Jensen tying for 35th place and Geist placing 39th.

“They’re a year older; they’re a year more mature,” Ligtenberg said. “They should have higher expectations of themselves.”

As for needed improvements from last year to now, Ligtenberg cited consistency.

“The true upper-level golfers are just that much more consistent all the time,” he said.

Spearfish did not lose any seniors to graduation from last season’s team.

Aberdeen will play host to the state AA tournament June 4-5.

The Spearfish girls’ golf program looks to rebuild for this season and the future. Pictured are: back row left, Halle Parks, Anna Engen, Danielle Kunkel, Lyric Williams, Kaylene Delahoyde, Kylee Jo Symonds, Isabell Jensen, and Elina Espeland. Middle row left, Myah Franke, Kali Lantis, Jenna Geist, Baylee Hazledine, Rachel Jensen, Bailey Jensen, and Avery Murray. Front row left, Piper Johner, Sydney Gusso, SeAnna Dahl, Tiffany Valentine, and Antonia Hill. Maureen Hoogland, Jaden Orange-Smith, Aly Wilde, Shayanne Weaver, and Stasia Williams are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

Spring 2018

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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2017 Spartan golfers in action

Pictured clockwise from top left are: Jenna Geist, Rachel Jensen, Lyric Williams, and Baylee Hazledine who will be returning to lead the Spearfish girls’ golf team as they get ready for the 2018 season. Pioneer file photos

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2018

L-D golfers ready for season to begin

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

LEAD — The Lead-Deadwood girls’ golf team returns a wealth of experience from a squad that finished fourth at last season’s state A tournament.

Emily Fox, Hailey Trewhella, and Gracie Kosters come back from a squad that also earned the Region 4A tournament title and qualified an entire team for state in 2017. All three are seniors this year.

Ninth-grader Madi Rystrom served as student manager for the state team and is also on the playing roster, as was the case last season.

Junior Emma Hess also returns for the Golddiggers, with seventh-grader Ashley Lary beginning her first season. Tanner McGinnis is starting his third season as head coach here.

Lead-Deadwood is scheduled to begin its season April 9 at the Rapid City Invitational, set for the Meadowbrook

course.

McGinnis agreed returning experience is a strong suit for his team. He pointed to two other areas he hopes will become strengths.

“A strength is hopefully going to be consistency, but we can always become more consistent,” McGinnis said. “We can always work and improve our short game.”

McGinnis said the schedule is similar to that of past seasons, but one of the harder tournaments is the Region 4A event in Belle Fourche. That event is set for May 24.

“To go in there and compete with a good team on their home turf is going to be pretty tough,” McGinnis said.

“We have a lot of girls with experience and talent,” McGinnis said. “We just need to get better every week and see where the end of the season comes around.”

Daily improvement and playing one’s best as season’s end are McGinnis’ two

biggest benchmarks for success. He also stressed being a good teammate, staying focused, and being a good student-athlete.

Lead-Deadwood should be quite competitive throughout the season, according to McGinnis. He said the Black Hills Conference features a lot of talent.

McGinnis tabbed Belle Fourche and St. Thomas More as co-favorites in the conference tournament. Douglas hosts this season’s event on May 10.

Official practices started on March 26.

Early sessions included strength and conditioning work along with knocking off the proverbial rust.

Returning players can take last year’s experiences and use that to start setting a foundation for this spring.

McGinnis said the Golddiggers won one tournament going into regions. He added the team fired its best scores at the region and state tournaments.

The lesson is to stay focused and keep

trying all year, McGinnis said. “I think those girls saw that trusting the process works, and hopefully we can do the same again this year,” he added.

McGinnis said he will continually discuss consistency this season.

Taylor Beagle and Sydney Auld graduated from last season’s squad.

Dell Rapids will host the state A tournament June 4-5.

The Lead-Deadwood girls’ golf team features: from left, Emma Hess, Hailey Trewhella, Emily Fox, Gracie Kosters, Madi Rystrom, and Ashley Lary. Head coach Tanner McGinnis is not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

Spring 2018

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2018

Lady Golddigger golfers in action

Emily Fox, left, and Gracie Kosters are two of the seniors on this season’s Lead-Deadwood girls’ golf squad. Pioneer file photos

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Belle Fourche golf team small but experienced

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

BELLE FOURCHE — The Belle Fourche girls’ golf team may be short on numbers, but it is long on experience.

Five players are on the squad, and together they have a total of 12 state A tournament appearances among them. They look to add to those numbers this season.

Senior Jade Burr has qualified for state five times, including a tie for second place last year. Junior Payson Birkeland is a three-time state qualifier; she finished 10th a year ago.

Avery Middleton is a junior who has four state tournament appearances to her credit.

Junior Caitlin Ringling earned the Black Hills Conference tournament’s junior varsity championship last season. Sophomore Juliann Lange played on the Region 4A team. Both players also lettered last season.

Belle Fourche lost Emily Collins to graduation from last season’s squad.

That returning experience is naturally a strong suit for this year’s team. Head coach Clark Gusso highlighted a few other things.

“Great attitudes,” said Gusso, who is in his 18th season as girls’ head coach.

“There’s a pretty good skill level.”

Every golfer can always work on the short game. Gusso said course management would also be a concern.

“I’ve told the girls, turn train wrecks into car wrecks, car wrecks into fender-benders,” Gusso said. That means making the proper decision on every shot.

It also means instead of taking a nine on a hole, for instance, getting out of trouble and taking a seven. Or, a golfer can turn a seven into a six.

“We’re all going to make mistakes,” Gusso said. “What do we do afterwards?”

Belle Fourche’s schedule is largely the same as in past seasons. However, the Broncs host four events including the Region 4A tournament on May 24.

Other Belle Fourche home events are the pre-regional tournament on April 19 and the Belle Fourche Invitational on May 15.

The season slate also includes the Black Hills Conference tournament May 10 at Douglas. Dell Rapids hosts the state A tournament June 4 and 5.

Gusso said Hot Springs, Spearfish, and Belle Fourche could contend for conference honors.

“We’re going to be in the thick of it,” Gusso said in describing the regional race. “One thing that worries me, obvi-

The Belle Fourche girls’ golf team features: from left, Juliann Lange, Payson Birkeland, Avery Middleton, Caitlin Ringling, and Jade Burr. Head coach Clark Gusso is not pictured. This quintet has a combined total of 12 state A tournament appearances to its credit. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross ously, is that we don’t have a whole lot of depth.”

Belle Fourche defines success by the same factors it always has. They are daily improvement, playing one’s best at season’s end, and qualifying a team for state.

“That all depends on what you do on a single day,” Gusso said in describing the state goal. The top three teams at the region tournament qualify for state.

The Broncs were not able to qualify a team for last season’s state tournament, as they finished fifth in the region event.

Official practices began March 26.

Players received equipment, watched a rules video that day, and discussed goals that day. Future days included going back to the basics on the course.

Gusso said the Broncs want to start slowly and peak at season’s end, which was the opposite of the 2017 campaign.

“We do not have to win every golf meet, but we do have to play every shot at a golf meet like it’s a state meet,” Gusso said. He added that is how players build consistency, which is also one of the biggest improvements he would like to see the team make in 2018.

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2018

Lady Broncs’ golfers in action

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Clockwise from far left: Jade Burr, Avery Middleton, and Payson Birkeland will help lead the Belle Fourche girls’ golf team into the spring 2018 season.

PIoneer file photos

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

BHSU women’s golf team has new coach

By James Marshall Special to the Pioneer

SPEARFISH — Black Hills State University’s women’s golf team finds new leadership in Alexander Kline.

He’s the new Yellow Jackets’ head coach, replacing Jamie Bentley, who resigned earlier in the year.

“I am extremely excited to join Black Hills State University as the new head women’s golf coach. Golf has taught me invaluable lessons, and I am very grateful for the opportunity to use the game as a medium to grow student-athletes,” said Kline. “The program already has great ideas in place, and I am ecstatic to start building upon what coach Bentley has accomplished.”

Black hills State opened the 2017 fall season finishing tied for 10th place at the Samuel Proal Invitational, in Pueblo, Colo.

Freshman Taryn Mayer led the way for the Lady Yellow Jackets in her first collegiate tournament, finishing in a tie for 33rd, after shooting 24-over 168 (8286). Kiley Phares placed 36th, shooting 27-over par (87-84). Molly Butler shot a 184 (93-91) for 52nd place, and Hayley Franke shot a 185 (88-97) for 54th place.

Madison Hand placed 58th with a 43-over 187 (94-93).

Black Hills State then tied 13th place at the RMAC Fall Preview, in Lakewood, Colo.

Kiley Phares led the way for the Lady Yellow Jackets. She finished 26-over par

168, good for a tie for 43rd. Madison Hand finished tied for 58th place at 38over 180, while Taryn Mayer was just behind at 40-over 182 to tie for 61st place.

Hayley Franke finished in 63rd place after carding a 41-over 183, and Molly Butler was tied for 66th at 44-over 186.

The Lady Jackets finished ninth at the Mustang Open, in Marshall, Minn.

Hayley Franke led the way for the Yellow Jackets, finishing in a tie for 26th at 24-over 168. Kiley Phares carded 25over (169), to finish just behind in a tie for 31st. Taryn Mayer placed T-51 at 34-over (178), while Molly Butler and Madison Hand each finished in a tie for 66th at 45-over 189. Taylor Miles, competing as an individual, placed 78th, after shooting 71-over 215.

Black Hills State finished in seventh place at the Bellevue Fall Invite, which was the final tournament for the fall season.

The tournament was cancelled after the first round due to wet and unplayable conditions.

Mayer came up big for the Lady Yellow Jackets, carding a 9-over 81 to finish tied for 20th.

Phares shot 11-over 83 to place 25th, while Franke tied for 29th, with a 13-over 85. Butler finished in a 40th-place tie by carding a 19-over 91, and Hand placed 50th after shooting 27-over 99.

Playing as an individual, Taylor Miles was 20-over 92, good for a tie for BHSU Pg 10

Pictured are members of the 2018 Black Hills State University women’s golf team, from left: Taylor Miles, Sydney Owen, Kiley Phares, Madison Hand, Taryn Mayer, Molley Butler, and Haley Franke. Photo courtesy BHSU Sports Information Department

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

from Pg 9

BHSU Clockwise from top left, Hayley Franke, Kiley Phares, and Taryn Mayer hope to help the Black Hills State University women’s golf team build on its 2017 fall season with a strong showing this spring.

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The Spring season begins April 15 and 16 with the Augustana Spring Invite, in Siox Falls.

Senior Madison Hand, juniors Kiley Phares and Taylor Miles, Miles, and freshmen Sydney Owen and Molley Butler will represent the Lady Jackets this Spring “My philosophy is, each and every day is an opportunity to get better.

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Spring 2018

two months and that’s new to them,” Kline said.

“I’m really excited for Taryn Mayer. She’s a freshman this year and she’s been putting in a lot of work changing her golf swing a little bit, and she has a lot of potential. I like to be top eight in the conference.

I think it’s very attainable.”

Golf has been a huge part of Kline’s life before he came to Black Hills State.

Kline comes to Spearfish from Minnesota, where he was the girls’ junior varsity head coach and varsity assistant coach at Hopkins High School.

Spring 2018

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Sturgis Brown girls’ golfers prepare for 2018 season

By Tim Potts Black Hills Pioneer

STURGIS — The Sturgis Brown High School girls’golf team started practice on Monday, March 26.

Mother Nature must not have gotten the memo, as the team was forced to stay inside due to the snow and wet conditions at the golf course.

The Scoopers have two returning golfers from last year season: senior Chelsea Powles and sophomore Ainsley Sabers.

Powles finished 33rd at the state AA tournament in Huron last year, and

Sabers finished 31st out of a field of 91. They were also both medalists at the Black Hills Conference tournament at Hart Ranch last year.

The Scoopers’ individual scores at state were: 31st place, Sabers, 177; 33rd place, Powles, 179; and 56th-place tie, Megan Andersen, 196 “I look forward to the season and the first meet in Spearfish,” said Colin McCampbell, the Lady Scoopers’ head coach.

New to this year’s team are Kennedy Bush, sophomore; Madison Johnson,

junior; Jasmijn Masson, a senior foreign exchange student; and LeAnn DeRouchey.

“I am really excited for the new girls coming out, and I hope they can help the team so we can have a good season,” said Powles. “My goal is to place at the state tournament.”

The Black Hills Conference tournament will be held at Douglas on May 10, and the state event will be in Aberdeen on June 4-5.

The first golf tournament for the Scoopers is scheduled to be the Spearfish quadrangular on April 9.

The Sturgis girls’ golfers have been recently practicing inside due to the weather while preparing for the first tournament in Spearfish on April 9. Team members include (not in order): Chelsea Powles, Jasmijn Mason, Kennedy Bush, Ainsley Sabers, and Madison Johnson. Not pictured is LeAnn DeRouchey. Pioneer photo by Tim Potts

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2018

Newell golf teams begin spring practices

By Colleen Brunner Black Hills Pioneer

NEWELL – Practice has just barely begun for the Newell High School boys’ and girls’ golf team members, but they are hard at it.

The main problem right now is the fact that the course is still covered by snow. And the prediction for the next week is for possible rain and snow showers each day. So Coach Mike Phelps, along with assistants Nathan Wetz and Scott Wince, has come up with a plan.

“We have just recently started practice,” said Phelps. “We have been limited to hit-

ting balls in the gym as the weather outside has yet to corporate with us.”

Phelps said he has another young team this year, with Adrianna Weeldryer and Dylan VanDerBoom graduating last year.

“Overall, last season was successful,” said Phelps. “We ended up qualifying all four girls as a team, for state. And three of the four boys qualified individually.”

Although he still has a relatively young team, Phelps said they have good experience as far as state goes. They are returning two qualified on both the boys’ and girls’ teams.

“We are led by sophomores on both teams, and they will look to continue to

build their game as well as the team’s games as the season progresses,” Phelps said.

Phelps said it is always the short game that will determine how the season progresses, and players will be focusing a lot on that and then just the mental aspect of playing golf. He intends to focus on the decision-making progress and limiting big scores.

“If we can do that, we can compete with anyone,” Phelps said.

As far as the regional standings go, Phelps said, the boys should be right in the thick of things to place as a team as long as they continue to progress. He feels that the

region will be really tight, as always, and will come down to which team shows up.

For the girls, he said, they also have a chance to compete for a region place.

“We do have some inexperience on the team, so it will all depend on how they all progress from tournament to tournament,” he said.

As the athletes continued to whack balls into a net hung from the north wall of the middle school gym, there was expectancy in getting out on the course. Several Newell Golf Club members had been out last week and that was whetting the appetite of the high schoolers to get out on the greens.

Newell golfers have been whacking the little white ball in the middle school gym due to weather issues. Pictured are: back row left, Huttson Weeldryer, Caleb Mutchler, John Jackson, Hunter Wetz, and Kassidy Weeldryer. Front row left: Katie McTaggart, Kelsi Clements, Braydon Cox, and Abbie Nelson. Bryn Grubl and Chase VanDerBoom are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Colleen Brunner

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spartan track and field team looking to be competitive

By Dennis Knuckles Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — The Spearfish High School track and field team is looking to be competitive in the AA ranks this season.

At the 2017 girls state Class A track and field meet in Sioux Falls, Spearfish finished seventh in the girls’ standings and sixth in the boys’ standings.

Spartan athletes placing in the top five at state were: girls 100-meter dash, Ashley Odenbach, fourth place; girls’ 200-meter dash, Odenbach, fourth place; girls’ 4x400-meter relay (Jalyn Carter, Madison Gould, Odenbach, and Alexis Louis) fifth place; girls’ high jump, Halle Rogers, fifth place; girls’ pole vault, Chandi Jackson,

fifth place; girls’ shot put, Cora Tobin, third place and Kennedy Kaitfors, fifth place; boys’ 400-meter dash, Tavian Ashurst, fifth place; boys 4x400-meter relay (Matt Ackerman, Cole Herrmann, Braeden Ferguson, and Ashurst) fifth place; and boys’ pole vault, Brodell VanZee, third place and Carson Sleep, fifth place.

The girls’ team in 2017 was hampered by injuries.

“I thought we did some good things. We had some injuries that kind of hampered us in the sprints a little bit, but our throwers did really well,” said Aaron Nida, the Spartans’ head coach. “We had had a high jumper that placed at state. We had a couple of pole vaulters that placed at state, so we had some nice things that happened for us

at the state meet. If we can stay away from those injuries, we can do some things this year.”

Nida expects good things from the boys’ side.

“We’ve got some individuals that ran some relays and placed. We’ve got some potential here and there. We have some guys that are trying new things. Braden Ferguson in the 300-meter hurdles is a returning state qualifier. Tavian Ashurst in the 400-meter run has run 50 points, so he is going to lead us. I think we have some boy throwers that are going to mature and step up this year,” Nida said.

Spearfish has a good turnout of athletes for track and field this spring.

Despite the cold temperatures and snow

that has invaded the Black Hills the past few weeks, the Spartans have still managed to get a lot of workouts in.

SPARTAN Pg 14

Pictured are the Spearfish girls’ track and field team (not in order): Bailee Ackerman, Billie Jo Barden, Madeline Boe, Mackinzie Briggs, Ellie Buckmaster, Faith Buer, Logan Bunney, Jalyn Carter, Journey Childers, Caitlin Cottrill, Amanda Dean, Lyndey Dean, Maddison Doren, Makenna Dupont, Harley Fisher, Sage Forsting, Diane Glasford, Madison Gould, Sara Grey, Sierra Hauff, Brooke Heairet, Lauren Hight, MacKenzie Hoffman, Angela Hovdenes, Chandi Jackson, Sabannah Jeffery, Morgan Johnson, Kennedy Kaitfors, Grace Karp, Alexis Louis, Rose Mechaley, Brittan Menzel, Marissa Moulton, Emma Murphy, Echoe Palmgren, Maia Pochop, Elizabeth Portratz, Adrianna Prillwitz, Ashtyn Reiners, Morgan Roberts, Halle Rogers, Erin Rotert, Eden Shank, Lauren Strand, Shelby Swets, Cora Tobin, Caitlyn Toney, Cloie Tracy, Mikayla Tracy, Hannah Tysdal, Lyza VanZee, Grace Walker, Madison Watts, Chelsea Williams, Olivia Williams, and Samantha Wood. Pioneer photo by Dennis Knuckles

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2018

Pictured above is the Spearfish boys’ track and field team (not in order): Matt Ackerman, Tayven Aga, Kenion Ashurst, Tavian Ashurst, Jack Beringer, Jake Braun, Tyler Cermak, Isaiah Childers, Dawson Craig, Austin Crotteau, Jayden Deichert, Drake Dittman, Max Ellingsen, Gavin Feeser, Braeden Ferguson, Greg George, Kadin Gifford, Connor Gosse, Christian Green, Cole Hansen, Thomas Heinert, Ryan Harris, Cole Herrman, Joe Hiermeier, Stran Holben, Chris Ivers, Bridger Janvrin, Austin Jensen, Drew Jewett, Jacob Johnson, Jackson Jones, Tobias Kinslow, Paxton Klug, Gabe Knudson, Simon Krum, Tyler Krunka, Kelby Kruse, Brendan Lahr, Cade Lyon, Timmy Moore, John Nickles, DeMarco Orange, Ryan Peldo, Ryan Rafferty, Brody Rickels, Bridger Roberdeau, Rigel Roberdeau, Jarron Rowe, Carson Selk, Hunter Seyer, Connor Speirs, Justin Steedley, Nathan Terrasas, Sam Tobin, Derek Webster, Marc Williams, and Ben Wise. the head coach of the Spartans is Aaron Nida, and the assistant coaches are: Brynn Crotteau, Andy Vandeest, Chad McCarty, Rick Meyerink, Nate Naasz, Cassie Schuurmans, and Erik Skoglund. Pioneer photo by Dennis Knuckles from Pg 13

SPARTAN “We’ve actually been out a few times at the track at Black Hills State. They’ve plowed it, and we were able to get on the track and do some stuff on the infield and the turf. We’ve been real lucky, to a certain extent, that we can get into the Donald E. Young Center to a certain extent, and we can get into the Young Center on those days where the track is just not available,” Nida said.

Nida said the Spartans would use the first couple of meets to see where they are at and what holes need to be addressed.

“Right now we have a few

experienced kids, but we’re pretty young. We have people trying different events, so we just want to get on the track and get in the field events we’re participating and competing in, and then we can start trying to figure out who’s going to go where and what we need for different places and kind of put that puzzle together,” he said.

This year, the Spartans will move back up to Class AA after spending the past three seasons in Class A. “We’re moving up a level (to Class AA). It changes the dynamics a little bit for us, but we’ve got good numbers, and if we can put our relays together, I think we will do well,” Nida said.

Left, Ashtyn Reiners, and right Braeden Ferguson hope to lead the Spearfish track and field team to a successful 2018 track and field season. Pioneer file photos

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Spring 2018

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

L-D track returns two-time state placers

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

LEAD — A two-time defending state champion and four other state place winners highlight Lead-Deadwood track teams as they begin their 2018 season.

Senior Carolyn Groeger has won the girls’ state A pole vault title two years in a row.

She is the first Lead-Deadwood athlete to earn two individual state titles since Kayla Lester won the state A girls’ shot put and discus championships in 2011.

The Golddiggers’ other returning state place winners from last season are in the boys’ division.

They are senior Gavin Haefs (second in the 300-meter hurdles), junior Trinity Brady (sixth in the 800-meter run), senior Wyatt Hess (seventh in the pole vault), and senior Dylin Johnson (eighth in the pole vault).

Senior Jake Alley represented

Lead-Deadwood in the boys’ long jump and triple jump events at state a season ago. Sophomore Jordy Stulken competed on sprint relays, with Haefs running in the 110-meter hurdles.

Junior Carly Mehlberg, sophomore Anna Campbell, and sophomore Blake Mehlberg ran on the girls’ 4x100-meter relay at last season’s state meet. Sophomore Hannah Campbell competed in the girls’ triple jump, and Groeger also qualified in the high jump.

Thirty-nine athletes (21 boys and 18 girls) are on the LeadDeadwood rosters as of press time. Fourth-year Golddiggers’ head coach Will Malde said the vast majority of last season’s teams are returning.

The boys’ squad features eight seniors, two juniors, six sophomores, and five ninth-graders.

Girls’ class-by-class representation is four seniors, seven ju-

niors, three sophomores, and four ninth-graders.

Lead-Deadwood lost Dan Rynders and Coltan Radensleben from last season’s team due to graduation.

“We have a lot of veteran returning athletes who are very skilled,” Malde said in outlining the Golddiggers’ strong suits. He added the team enjoys a lot of top-level talent in a lot of events.

Lead-Deadwood usually enjoys a strong reputation in the field events. Malde looks for that to continue this spring.

Malde said athletes are currently working to improve speed. That is only one of the things he said needs work.

“For all of our kids, it’s just trying to get better at their event of choice,” Malde said.

He added that includes doing the required movements more efficiently and being excited about the chance to compete.

Lead-Deadwood competes in the Black Hills Conference. Malde said this season’s schedule is difficult.

“Our region is just back-loaded with really great competitors in so many different things,” Malde said. He added a lot of meets also include the Rapid City schools and Pierre.

Malde said that ultimately puts the Golddiggers in a good, competitive spot as athletes work to qualify for state and prepare for that meet.

St. Thomas More will likely compete for top conference honors in the boys’ and girls’ divisions, Malde said. He added Custer and Hill City should also be very competitive in the girls’ division.

“It’s hard to choose,” Malde said. “There are so many good teams.” Douglas hosts that meet May 11.

Malde is very optimistic about Lead-Deadwood’s ability to compete against conference

teams if things go as anticipated.

“I see us stacking up pretty well,” Malde said. “We’ve got a really solid group.”

Malde looks forward to seeing how the sophomore girls progress throughout the season. He said this year’s senior class enjoyed a great 2017 and hopes the members can build on that.

Success in a track season includes daily improvement and turning in best times and efforts at season’s end. Malde listed other L-D TRACK Pg 16

Pictured at left is the Lead-Deadwood girls’ track team. Back row left: Mara Jacobs, Emma Koenig, Hannah Campbell, Anna Campbell,and Carolyn Groeger. Middle row left, Angelica Jones, Saige Van Tassel, Olivia Rogers, Carly Mehlberg, and Greta Moreno. Front row left, Zariah Jones, Lucia Fernandez, Alicia Roden, and Blake Mehlberg. Not pictured are Bailey Trevino, Courtney Baumgartner, Madelaine Rogers, Nikki Radensleben, and head coach Will Malde.

Pictured at right is the Lead-Deadwood boys’ track team. Back row left: Jared Harrison, Wyatt Hess, Gavin Haefs, Jake Alley, Pratt Williams, and Trinity Brady. Middle row left: Mekieh Hon, Pablo Munoz, Dylin Johnon, and Taylor Arehart. Front row left, Diego Castanedo, Eli Jordan, Jordy Stulken, Kadden Dillman, and Dylan Schumacher. Not pictued are Blake Ingham, Brigham Williams, Domenic Lucero, Garret Kiefer, Quinn Ward, Rob Lester, and head coach Will Malde. Pioneer photos by Jason Gross

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Page 16

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2018

Clockwise from top left: Anna Campbell, Jordy Stulken, and Wyatt Hess are among the returning athletes for this season’s Lead-Deadwood track teams. PIoneer file photos from Pg 15

L-D TRACK indicators, including seniors and upperclassmen holding their teammates accountable.

“That’s the key to getting really good workouts and having really good growth to the season,” Malde said of the accountability.

Malde said the Golddiggers have a lot of big goals for

this season, including qualifying a number of boys for the state meet.

Haefs, Groeger, Brady, Hess, and Johnson are among the athletes having very high expectations for this season, according to Malde.

“What we’re trying to do is get kids working on building their strength and that speed right away,” Malde said in describing early workouts.

Technique has also served as a point of emphasis during those sessions.

2018 Spring 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 Dru Thomas, advertising manager Dennis Knuckles, layout The publisher will not be responsible or liable for misprints, misinformation or typographic errors herein contained.

Publisher also reserves the right to refuse any advertising deemed not to be in the best interest of the publication. © 2018 BLACK HILLS PIONEER, all rights reserved.

Last season’s team members worked hard at practices and paid a lot of attention to planning. Malde said he would like to see that continue this year.

“We did so many things really well,” Malde said in recalling last year. “I hope that that’s a big driving force for them.”

Malde said he would like to see a number of improved times, distances, and personal records this season.

“The other big thing is, I’d love to see some growth in their mental game, how prepared they are for it,” he said.

Spring 2018

Page 17

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Belle Fourche track teams see higher numbers

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

BELLE FOURCHE — Belle Fourche’s track teams are enjoying increased participation numbers into a season that started March 23 and will end May 25-26 at the state A meet.

“Numbers are up considerably from last year,” head coach Bill Abell said in discussing the Broncs’ strong suits. He added training levels are also ahead of past years.

As for what needs work, Abell takes a realistic approach.

“It’s the typical start of the year,” Abell said. “We’re really trying to hammer some technique and get the mechanics down.”

Belle Fourche’s roster features 34 boys and 29 girls.

The boys’ team features seven seniors, 10 juniors, 10 sophomores, and seven ninth-graders.

Girls’ class-by-class representation includes one senior, five juniors, nine sophomores, and 14 ninth-graders.

Senior Shayla Howell is the most prominent returnee for the girls’ squad.

She won four events (100-meter dash, 200-meter dash, long jump, and triple jump) at last season’s state meet and received the girls’ class A Outstanding Field Athlete and Outstanding Track Athlete honors. The triple jump effort of 39 feet 9.25 inches was a meet record.

Other returning athletes on the girls’ team include sophomores Aspen Braning, Taryn Stedillie, Savannah Rosales, and Makenna Ward; and ninth-graders Laney Brill and Bella Jensen.

Jensen earned sixth place in the girls’ triple jump at last season’s state meet, and Braning tied for eighth place in the high jump. Ward, Stedillie, and Rosales qualified for state in the 4x100- and 4x200-meter relays. Braning (4x200-meter) and Brill (4x100-meter) also competed at state in relays.

Most members of the boys’ team are returning for this season. That list includes senior Dylan Burns, junior

Tate Hostetter, sophomore Angel Tingley, and sophomore Jackson Tyndall.

Tyndall tied for eighth place in the triple jump at state last season, and Burns qualified for state in the long jump. Hostetter and Tingley were members of the 4x800-meter relay that competed at state.

The Broncs’ schedule includes three home meets. Those events are the Center of the Nation Invitational on April 14, the Northern Hills Invitational on April 24, and the Region 8A meet on May 17.

Douglas hosts the Black Hills Conference meet on May 11.

Spearfish hosts the first day of the state A meet on May 25, with all classes meeting in Rapid City on May 26.

Abell is in his fifth season as Broncs’ head coach.

Belle Fourche’s schedule is the same as in past years. Abell said the Broncs face many of the top teams in western South Dakota.

“The Black Hills Conference is, hands down, harder than our state meet,” Abell said.

“Everywhere we go, we keep running into the same competition,” he said. “It’s great.”

Abell said Custer and St. Thomas More can never be counted out of the Black Hills Conference race.

This year’s meet is set for May 11 at Douglas.

He added Sturgis could also contend for conference honors, and that race will be interesting.

Pictured is the 2018 Belle Fourche High School track and field team. The girls’ squad is in the top photo. Back row left: Winter Goodwin, Shayla Howell, Gabby Hoffman, Hayley Wilbur, Bella Jensen, Ashley Byrd, Aspen Braning, Elainna Brill, and Morgan Collins. Middle row left: Emma Singer, Shyanne Howell, Hope Gerry, Kendal Millett, Breanna Brinson, Serena Davis, Amanda Jewett, Katie Mailloux, Heather Mitchell, and Brook McConville. Front row left: Kiah Millett, Layla Hockenbary, Amity Middleton, Savannah Rosales, Makenna Ward, Taryn Stedillie, and Rylee Young. Ally Drabek, Fallon Osana, Megen Keegan, and head coach Bill Abell are not pictured.

The Belle Fourche boys’ track team is pictured in the other photo. Back row left: Cruz Kellum, Michael Streeter, Riley Hoard, Trent Larson, Chandler Kerr, Hunter Mitchell, Morgen Garrett, Bryce Nicholas, Kelby Olson, Colby Nowowiejski, Logan Goeders, and Taylor Erickson. Middle row left, John Maher, Jaredon Dosch, Tate Hostetter, Zane Rankin, Jackson Mailloux, Luke Lensegrav, Ethan Jones, Dylan Burns, and EJ Lambert. Front row left, Daniel Rodriguez, Diego Tarno, Ryan Bauer, Brextin Garza, Blake Vissia, Jackson Tyndall, and Tate Larson. Angel Tingley, Jett Blakeman, Nathan Balderas, Nicholas Peterson, Michael Leverington, Hunter Quenzer, and head coach Bill Abell are not pictured. Pioneer photos by Jason Gross

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Spring 2018

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Belle Fourche track athletes in action

Jackson Tyndall, left, and Bella Jensen are among the athletes returning for Belle Fourche track and field squads this spring. Both earned top-eight placings at last season’s state A meet and look to do the same in 2018. Pioneer file photos

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

BHSU outdoor track ready for spring season

By James Marshall Special to the Pioneer

SPEARFISH — wThe 2018 Black Hills State University track and field team is looking to build off a successful indoor season.

The women’s team earned a preseason pick of eighth place in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC), while the men’s squad was selected to finish in a tie for eighth. The women finished eighth at the 2017 RMAC Outdoor Championships, while the men placed seventh.

Seth Mischke, the Yellow Jackets’ head coach, has been coaching the Jackets since 2010, and he’s been loving every second of it.

“This is year eight, and I feel like we’ve been having some really good performances.” Mischke said. “There’s always some good, always some bad, and some in the middle. But all in all, we had some really good performances.”

Headlining the list of notable returners for the men’s team is Nathan Friedrick, who finished second at the RMAC Championships last year in the 1000-meter run.

Other notable athletes for the men’s team included Jonah Theisen,

Tristan Hepp, and Bryce Boser.

Theisen took fourth at the conference championships, before traveling to the NCAA Championships and taking 10th in the 3,000-meter steeplechase.

Tristan Hepp was second in the 400-meter hurdles in the RMAC, while Bryce Boser took second in last year’s pole vault event.

“Tristan and Taylor Hepp are in pretty good shape. They produced inside and placed last year in outdoor. (Allan) McDonnell in the high jump, obviously winning the conference championship in high jump as a freshman. Jonah Theisen has been a national qualifier for the steeplechase, and we’re looking for him to get back to the show,” Mischke said.

Tristan Hepp and Boser were both named All-RMAC Second Team after the 2017 indoor season.

Hepp made the honors in both the 200-meter dash and high jump. Boser received the honor for pole vault.

McDonnell, a freshman, will be making his outdoor debut after winning the high jump at the RMAC Indoor Championships.

Justin Thorstad will be competing after being named All-RMAC First Team in the 800-meter run during the indoor season.

Taylor Hepp (400-meter dash) and Jonah Theisen (mile run) were named Second Team.

“On the women’s side, Ally Richards has been the main stage woman for us. She’s gonna pick up the javelin outdoor, while maintaining the high jump and pole vault outside. Which she did inside and did well in.

“She’s good at the javelin. She was conference champ last year and took home second two years ago,” Mischke said in describing Richards. “There’s good people to look forward to and maybe some surprises coming this spring.”

During the offseason, the athletes are trusted to not only maintain their level of fitness but to build off of what they did the previous season.

Mischke said the track team’s philosophy is, “You get out what you put in.”

“This speaks to the level of commitment it takes to not only be a part of this team, but to place and do well in their events,” Mischke said.

“Sometimes we take a look at the individual and see where they are lacking. If it’s weight room, we would focus mainly on the weight room for that individual. If it’s a speed component or sometimes a technical aspect of the event, the

weight room will help fix some things.”

Mischke added, “It’s a seven-day-a-week program over the summer. I want to say it’s pretty involved, but really, it’s up to the athlete. Your’re gonna put the time in or you’re not, and when we come back in the fall, we find out who did and who didn’t.”

The Yellow Jackets opened the outdoor season on March 24, hosting the Yellow Jacket Spring Open.

Winners were: Jonah Theisen, men’s 3000-meter steeplechase (9 minutes 43.18 seconds); Taylor Hepp, men’s 400-meter dash (49.02 seconds); Justin Thorstad, men’s 800-meter run (1:55.18); Tristan Hepp, men’s 400-meter hurdles (58.61 seconds); Isaac Iverson, men’s 5,000-meter run (15:42.36); men’s 4x400-meter relay team (Taylor Hepp, Garrett Snook, Brian Kjerstad, and Tristan Hepp), 3:19.56; Bryce Boser, men’s pole vault (15 feet 5 inches); Allan McDonnell, men’s high jump (6-6.75); Abbie Fredrick, women’s 1,500-meter run (4:51.92); Zoe Langseth, women’s 400-meter dash (59.69 seconds); Brittney Marosok, women’s 400-meter hurdles (1:06.53); Nicole Allerdings, women’s 5;000-meter run (18:19.64); Whitney Scott, women’s pole vault (11-5.75); and Lia Guigui, women’s high jump (5-3).

Members of the 2018 Black Hills State University women’s track and field team are (not in order): Nicole Allerdings, Zoe Bigley, Janae Bjorgum, Hayley Bowen, Kathrine Campbell, Vanessa Clark, Amber Codr, Nicole Davis, Savannah Davis, Dacia Douthit, Abbie Fredrick, Julette Goehring, Lia Guigui, Mayson Hudyma, Jordyn Huneke, Hannah Kirk, Zoe Langseth, Isabel Litzen, Jessica Malm, Brittney Marosok, Tori Moore, Cheyenne Pinney, Meghan Ramey, Alexandra Richards, Cailey Roth, Whitney Scott, JoJo Sherman, Shayna Soderstrom, Kelsey Van Den Hemel, and Cheyanne Varga. Members of the 2018 Black Hills State University men’s track and field team are (not in order): Walter Bordewyk, Bryce Boser, Josh Davis, Chance Dooley, Jacob Esposito, Sam Fjelstan, Nathan Fredrick, Levi Fried, Mark Fruechte, Taylor Hepp, Tristan Hepp, Keegan Her Many Horses, Seth Hills, Isaac Iverson, Jacob Iverson, Chris Johnson, Clay Johnson, Brian Kjerstad, Seth Kovar, Brad Lyman, Allan McDonnell, Laketon McLaughlin, Joe Melia, Drazen Moratzka, Ryan Olsen, Keith Osowski, Matthew Parker, Antonio Pierce, Austin Pinney, Joe Rath, Garrett Ravert, Bailey Rosenstrauch, Bailey Rosenstrauch, Chase Smith, Garrett Snook, Jonah Theisen, Jordan Theisen, Justin Thorstad, Dartanian Vukota, Austin Williamson, and Cody Wilson. The head coach is Seth Mischke, and the assistant coaches are Scott Walkinshaw, Scott Foley, Ben Jasinski, and Chris Fields. Photo courtesy BHSU Sports Information Department

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Spring 2018

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

2017 BHSU track and field athletes in action

Clockwise from top left: Keith Osowski and Jake Iverson compete in the men’s 3,000-meter steeplechase event during a meet earlier this season. Kelsey Van Den Hemel and an opponent move down the back stretch of a women’s 1,500-meter run heat race. Ally Richards clears the bar in the women’s pole vault event.

Pioneer file photos

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Sturgis Brown track and field has 13 seniors

By Tim Potts Black Hills Pioneer

STURGIS — With only four days of practice on the outdoor track, and the remainder of early practices held inside, 83 athletes will open the 2018 track and field season for Sturgis Brown High School.

“We have many returning state qualifying competitors and many new faces as well,” said Blake Proefrock, entering his third season as the Scoopers’ varsity coach.

“We had a very good season last year with the girls’ and boys’ teams finishing in the top half at state as well as both earning the Black Hills Conference championship titles.”

The Scoopers have 13 seniors competing this season: Cameron Brinkman, Taylor Eby, Austin Permann, Tom Shaw, Noah Wamsher, Jacob West, Dustin Williams, Molly Buchholz, Alexa Delbridge, Reegin Kehn, Jayme Peterson, Ashlyn Simons, and Carlee Steeves.

“Overall, we look to work hard and hopefully continue that success,” said Proefrock. “We have many high-quality upperclassmen returning to lead the way.”

The Scoopers will have many strong sprinters and a growing group of distance

kids that look to make a well-balanced team.

Proefrock said the Scoopers should be stronger in the field events.

“I think we will be even stronger as a group than last year. It is my hope to be one of the top teams in the Black Hills Conference and, if we do things right, we should also do well at the state level. With Sturgis hosting the state meet this year, it adds a little extra motivation for many of our athletes,” Proefrock said.

The first day of the Class AA State Track meet will be held at Woodle Field on Friday, May 25.

Nineteen juniors are also competing: Ethan Brenneman, Jared Curtis, Matt Eby, Wyatt Engbrecht, Manny Gallosa, Tanner Geil, Alec Keffeler, Mitch Knutson, Simba Maat, Blake McNaught, Tayler Opstedahl, Dallas Posser, Clay Tedder, Gavin West, Brittany Delzer, Olivia Jolley, Cassidy Jorensen, Karissa Munger, and Loralee Stock.

Proefrock talked about several athletes to watch this season based on last year’s performances. They include sprinters Noah Wamsher, Olivia Jolley, Loralee Stock, Cameron Brinkman, and Reegin Kehn; distance runners Kylie Bennett, Ethan

Brenneman, and Autumn Cassen; hurdlers Gavin West, Taylor Opstedahl, and Sydney Shaw; jumpers Alec Keffeler, Makayla Keffeler, Ashlyn Simons, Olivia Jolley, Matt Eby, and Gavin West; pole vaulters Austin Permann, Gavin West, and Cassidy Jorensen; and throwers Dustin Williams, Alexa Delbridge, Tom Shaw, and Brittany Delzer.

Returning Scooper athletes that set a mark in the all-time school top-10 records set in 2017 are Kylee Bennett, 400-meter dash, fifth-best at 59.83 seconds, 800-meter run, third all-time at 2 minutes 17.96 seconds, and 1,600-meter run, third all-time at 5:10:45; Lia Miller, 3,200-meter run, fourth all-time at 11:31:22; Autumn Cassen, 3200-meter run, fifth all-time at 11:46:03; Olivia Jolley, high jump, ninth all-time at 5 feet 2 inches; and Gavin West, 300-meter hurdles, third all-time at 40.70 seconds.

Eleven sophomores include Nate Andersen, Zach Shoun, Blane Breth, Annie Calhoon, Autumn Cassen, Breanna Garry, Emily Gray-Smith, Breezy Paul, Desirae Pulling, Bethany Schaefer, and Sydney Shaw.

The 39 freshman athletes are Cody Brink, Brady Buchholz, Elijah Burdick, Trevor Christman, Kale Dennis, Jarrod Duran, Ben

Eberhard, Brodie Eisenbraun, Jaxon Mohr, Traeton Monohan, David Musilek, Kaden Nelson, Kaiden Phillips, Jared Sailer, Remmington Sankey, Casey Tau, Taylor Tobias, Kylee Bennett, Jade Breidenbach, Rachel Burkhalter, Rachel Cammack, Isabel Castillo, Haley Ferguson, Lanessa Finn, Payton Hedderman, Ella Johnson, Shanayah Johnson-Landoll, Hannah Jones, Josie Kaufman, Makayla Keffeler, Trinity Legner, Brinley Pickett, Maggie Reeve, Presley Schneider, Eden Schone, Velda Snow, Kaitlyn Theis, Zia Wallace, and Micah Wild.

Front row left: Kylee Bennett, Autumn Cassen, Velda Snow, Jade Breidenbach, Isabel Castillo, Carlee Steeves, Blake McNaught, Taylor Eby, Gavin West, Noah Washer, Reegin Kehn, Annie Calhoun, Eden Schone, Taylor Tobias, Ashlyn Simons, Manny Gallosa. Second row left: Josie Kaufman, Haley Ferguson, Trinity Legner, Rachel Cammack, Presley Schneider, Makayla Keffeler, Brinley Pickett, Payton Hedderman, Breezy Paul, Rachel Burkhalter, Kaitlyn Theis, Micah Wild, Sydney Shaw, Cassidy Jorensen, Brittany Delzer, Molly Buchholz, Alexa Delbridge, Olivia Jolley, Loralee Stock, Tanner Geil. Third row left: Blane Breth, Nate Andersen, Jared Curtis, Tayler Opstedahl, Shanayah JohnsonLandoll, Brady Buchholz, David Musilek, Wyatt Engbrecht, Remminton Sankey, Casey Taul, Tom Shaw, Karissa Munger, Jarrod Duran, Jayme Peterson, Elijah Burdick, Alex Pulling, Matt Eby. Back row left: Dallas Posser, Bethany Schaefer, Desirae Pulling, Hannah Jones, Lanessa Finn, Treaton Monohan, Brody Brink, Brodie Eisenbraun, Kale Dennis, Kaden Phillips, Jared Sailer, Kaden Nelson, Trevor Christman, Clay Tedder, Dustin Williams, Ben Eberhard, Mitch Knutson, Jaxon Mohr, and Zia Wallace. Emily Gray-Smith, Ella Johnson, Maggie Reeve, Cameron Brinkman, Alec Keffeler, Simba Maat, Zach Shoun, Jacob West are not pictured. Pioneer photo by Tim Potts

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Page 22

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2018

Newell track and field hopes to improve in 2018

By Colleeen Brunner Black Hills Pioneer

NEWELL — With head coach Kyle Sanderson returning once again to run the Newell track and field program, he was excited that he had his entire staff from last year return as well.

Sanderson focuses on the Irrigators’ middle and long distance running while Cara Muchridge focuses on the jumping program. Lars Dunavant works with the sprinters, and Emylee Hensey works with the shot and discus throwers.

“All three did a great job of working with the kids and helping them improve the team last year,” said Sanderson. “I am excited to see them help the athletes to grow this season.”

Sanderson is focusing on a better year than last, when the Newell girls’ team won the Little Moreau Conference and had a state fifthplace finish as a team.

Although last year’s boys’ team was small, this year there are 14 athletes out. Sanderson expects greater depth with the larger group that will help at the conference meet.

“Last season was one of the best (girls’) seasons for the Irrigators in recent memory,” said Sanderson. “The boys were young and gained a lot of experience and are looking for another jump this season.”

The spring practices have been difficult due to weather making it difficult to run and train outside.

With many activities scheduled for the school gyms, the Irrigators have had a tough time scheduling indoor practices.

“We have had to get creative in our workouts, staying in a few days and running out on the muddy roads as well,” Sanderson said.

The girls’ team has a lot of returning athletes and new young athletes coming up. Many of the

current team gained state track experience last year, and Sanderson expects to build on that.

“Delaney Leber is a great senior leader to have on the team,” said Sanderson. “She works hard every day and helps the younger runners come along.” He said on the 15-member team his middle and distance areas are the strongest, but they have some throwers and sprinters who came on strong last season and are ready to keep improving.

“On the boys’ side, our strength might be our numbers,” Sanderson said. “With a larger boys’ team than normal, it will be nice to put together relay teams and added depth.”

He said the team as a whole just needs to work on getting its fitness levels up and work on form and technique to remain competitive throughout the season.

Although he cites Lemmon as a large team that racks up a lot of points for the girls, he believes the Newell girls should have a good chance at winning.

“It all depends on how things shape up for us with the state meet,” he said. “We have the ability and the numbers for the girls to win.

“We will be trying to get as many boys qualified for state at the conference meet that we can,” he said. “We are eying a top-three spot in the region this year for the boys.”

Pictured is the 2018 Newell High School track and field team. The Newell girls’ track and field team consists of: Austin Alexander, Amarri Hiermeier, Rachel Boesem, Lexa Burtzlaff, Kyla Emmert, Aryann Hoffer, Delaney Leber, McKalee Mahaffy, Justice Miller, Shailey Mahaffy, Amanda Nehmer, Liz Philipsen, Kayden Steele, Sarah Wallace, Kassidy Weeldreyer, and Dana Youngberg. The Newell boys’ track and field team consists of: Payton Burtzlaff, Tristan Clough, Brandon Elmore, Evan Gray, Ryan Hohenberger, Nathaniel Kirby, Brock Kjellsen, Draven LeBouncane, Neuly Mahaffy, David Morell, Ben Parrow, Taven Pharis, Zane Pharis, Seth Raposa, Elijah Stomprud, Morgan Stuen, and Will Timm. The Irrigators’ head coach is Kyle Sanderson, and the assistant coach is Cara Muckridge. Pioneer photos by Colleen Brunner

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Page 23

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spearfish boys’ tennis team will be young

By Dennis Knuckles Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH — The Spearfish High School boys’ tennis team returns five players from its 2017 team.

The team won only one singles match at the state tournament in 2017, but Doug Dexheimer, the Spartans’ head coach, said the team still had a good year.

“We had a pretty good year last year.

The guys improved a lot. We lost quite a few senior players, but we have a pretty good build on this year,” said Dexheimer.

“We have five guys back from last year and a bunch of middle schoolers playing at the middle school level that have some good experience in competition, and we’ve got them moved up to junior varsity, and some of those we will move up to varsity

and we are waiting to see how things go.”

Dexheimer added, “The weather has obviously held us up a little bit, but we have a better idea where things are.”

Dexheimer said the first few weeks of practice have gone well.

“We’ve been working on a little conditioning, and the fundamentals. Footwork is a big one. Trying to make sure their feet are moving and they are responding to the ball and moving around, then setting up some good stroke patterns to start the season,” he said.

This year’s team will consist of four seniors, three juniors, seven freshmen, three eighth-graders, and two seventhgraders.

“With the younger guys, we are trying to build on the fundamentals that we started last year,” said Dexheimer. “Get them a

little quicker and have them understand the sport just a little bit better. Their movement patterns during their game development, and then get them consistent with their strokes.”

Dexheimer said his team has been working hard at practices.

“Good enthusiasm, very coachable, trying hard, and Joe (Doerges) and I are both seeing quite a bit of improvement,” Dexheimer said.

Dexheimer said he wants his team to be consistent and competitive this season.

“Just maintain the consistency and the competitive environment,” said Dexheimer.

“It’s easier to keep up good form and technique in practice and then it tends to break down in competition, and we want to see the technique carry through.”

Dexheimer said it’s too early to tell how

his team compares to other teams in the state.

“I’m not even going to guess, Right now, we are just focusing on getting the players better and what happens, happens,” he said.

Members of the 2018 Spearfish High School boys’ tennis team are, front row left: Zach Tipton, Sean Wenzel, Ty Sieber, Logan Larson, Jensen Damberg, Max Krier, and Will Becker. Middle row left: manager Vittoria Ragni, Nathan Davis, Tim Doerges, Braden Yackley, Tayan Patterson, Jay Sayler, Brock Bacon, and manager Sierra Hauff.

Back row left: assistant coach Joe Doerges, Tanner Hanson, Carter Thorman, Matt Waters, Erik Rothe, Victor Gross, Tyler Huber, and head coach Doug Dexheimer. Not pictured are Will Sayler and manager Hannah Brun. Pioneer photo by Dennis Knuckles

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

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Clockwise from the top left: Spearfish’s Carter Thorman, Matt Waters, Tyler Huber, and Tim Doerges hope to lead the Spartan boys’ tennis team to a successful 2018 season.

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Page 25

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

BHSU softball team building confidence

By James Marshall Special to the Pioneer

SPEARFISH — The 2018 Black Hills State University women’s softball team continues its rebuilding process under fourth-year head coach Lane Leedy.

The Lady Yellow Jackets softball team had a rough season last year, winning only seven of their 44 games overall and finishing 5-31 in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. They are using the the 2017 season as a learning experience for the 2018 season.

“Last year we were so young, but we’ve made some great strides,” Leedy said. “You can see it now, that it’s starting to pay off dividends this year.”

Currently, the Lady Jackets are 6-18 overall and 6-10 in the conference.

The Lady Jackets have 10 returning players from the 2017 season, including key players such as Claire Fergusson, Katelyn Odle, and Alex Wiley.

“We call her Steady Eddy (Odle) because

she just provides that consistency both on the field and at the plate. You never have to worry about what Katelyn is doing and that’s a wonderful feeling as a coach,” Leedy said.

“The greatest satisfaction would be Maddie London finding that consistency behind the plate,” Leedy said. “She does great things behind the plate, and she leads our pitchers very well. She struggled a little bit as a hitter last year; to see her succeed this year has been really fun.”

In 2018, Black Hills State has a batting average of .276, with the help of Kindal Bethke leading the way for her team with a batting average of .328, recording 40 hits in 122 at-bats. Morgan Smith also did some big things for her team on the offensive end, as she posted a batting average of .299, recording 35 hits in 117 at-bats.

“We’re indoors so defense is a little bit difficult, so we focus on swinging. So when they step into the box, there are feeling confident and seeing the pitches for what they really are,” Leedy said.

Something the Jackets can hang their hats on this season is taking down the No. 2 ranked team in the conference last year.

The Lady Jackets won three out of four games from Colorado School of Mines on March 17-18.

“We’re still young in key positions; we’re still trying to find that consistency factor,” Leedy said.

“With Mesa and Colorado Christian at the top doing great things, they have a upper class-led squad. When we get to that upper class-led squad, I expect our team to compete with anybody on any given Sunday,” Leedy said.

On March 24, Black Hills State split a doubleheader with Chadron State College.

Gillette, Wyo., hosted those games.

The Eagles won the first game, 3-2, in 11 innings, before the Lady Yellow Jackets won 2-1 in game two.

Leedy said the team wants to make the RMAC post season tournament.

“I wanna make the tournament. It’s al-

ways a personal goal for me since we joined Division II,” she said.

The key to obtaining this goal falls on the shoulders of the pitchers and whether or not they can stay healthy.

“We’re ready and firing on all cylinders,” Leedy said. “Keeping our pitchers healthy is a big thing for us. If we can keep them healthy, I really think we can finish top 8.”

Morgan Smith, Kindall Bethke, Alex Wiley, Brittany Henricksen, Breanne Henricksen, Bryce Henricksen, Claire Fergusson, Paige McGuire, Melissa Gellermann, Dominique DiManna, McKayla Perry, Jordyn Ballard, Katelyn Odle, Maddie London, Samantha Schoen, Maddi Fidler, Makenzi Strong, Samantha Gill, Darian Gottfried, Crystal Koch, and Kiley Wood comprise the Black Hills State University softball team. The Lady Jackets are guided by head coach Lane Leedy, assistant coach Caitlin Blanchard, and manager Carson Buer. Photo courtesy BHSU Sports Information Department

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Spring 2018

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

BHSU women’s softball team in action

Clockwise from top left: Katelyn Odle, Morgan Smith, Alex Wiley, and Kindall Bethke will help the Black Hills State University women’s softball team try to build on the foundation it has set in recent seasons. Pioneer file photos

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Veteran Digger baseball team takes the field

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer

represent the junior class. Sophomore Payton Grodzin plays infield and outfield positions.

Ninth-graders completing the roster are Tyler Rohn (infielder), Kopen Derby (infielder-outfielder), Cody Rakow (infielder-outfielder), Dawson Janke (infielder-outfielder), Charlie Hanel (infielder-catcher), and Domenic Lucero (infielder-outfielder).

Coach Nelson agreed that returning experience is a strong point for his team. He said many players understand the game and have played since age 5 or 6.

“Everybody’s important,” coach Nelson said in describing the squad. “Hopefully, some of those younger guys can play a bigger role than they may think that they play early on in the season.”

Younger players must become part of the baseball family, according to coach Nelson.

“The older guys will really need to bring them under their wing,” coach Nelson said. He reiterated the younger players must play at higher levels for the team to succeed.

Outfield play poses a big concern for

LEAD — Lead-Deadwood’s high school baseball team will rely heavily on juniors and seniors as it aims to build on last season’s success.

The Golddiggers are scheduled to begin the campaign with their home opener, set for April 6 against Rapid City Central.

Varsity play at Keene Park on April 6 begins at 5 p.m., followed by the junior varsity contest at 7 p.m.

Bob Nelson is beginning his sixth season as Golddiggers’ head coach. He said he has a good roster that is lacking in the sophomore class.

The roster as of press time features five seniors, five juniors, one sophomore, and six ninth-graders.

Seniors are Chris Lipp (outfielder-pitcher), Zach Murray (infielder-pitcher), Jack Egemo (infielder-pitcher), Anthony Corkins (infielder), and Thad Kulp (infielder).

Wyatt Vande Velde (catcher-outfielder), Carter Nelson (infielder), Luke Fish (infielder-outfielder), Dylan Arehart (infielder), and Maxx Percy (infielder)

Lead-Deadwood. Coach Nelson said the team lost a lot of speed and range in that area from last year.

Coach Nelson said this year’s slate is very similar to past years, with the Rapid City Central games added. He added it is a favorable slate, but each game will be a matter of whether or not the team performs.

Lead-Deadwood, St. Thomas More, Hot Springs, and Bennett County comprise the Region 4B Western Division. WinnerColome, Todd County, Chamberlain, Platte-Geddes, and Gregory County are in the Eastern Division.

“If we play as error-free as possible — errors come in baseball — we should be able to hold our own,” coach Nelson said.

“I think we can compete, no matter where we go.”

Practice sessions began Feb. 16. Players have spent a lot of time in the batting cage and are working intensively on other fundamentals.

Coach Nelson was asked what would constitute success for the Golddiggers this season. He spoke of the need to fill the defensive void left by graduating players, but a lofty goal is in his mind.

“If I said anything less than going to the state tournament, I would be letting the team down,” he said.

Coach Nelson said he thought last year’s team could reach state. He added this year’s squad has as good a chance, if not better, to get to that stage.

An 8-5 start to last year’s campaign featured a 2-0 victory over St. Thomas More.

Lead-Deadwood defeated Bennett County 5-1 to begin the Region 4B Western Division tournament. The Golddiggers fell 6-5 to St. Thomas More in the super regionals and finished 9-9.

Lead-Deadwood lost Max Nelson, Tyler Borsch, Dillon Burns, Riley Stokes, and Colt Bradley to graduation from last season’s team.

What can the Golddiggers build on from last season?

Coach Nelson said last year’s team got a good sense of identifying how a team wins. He added pitchers began trusting their teammates to make plays.

As for improvements heading into this season, coach Nelson said, players must carry an aggressive approach to the plate.

The Lead-Deadwood High School baseball team includes: back row left, Carter Nelson, Luke Fish, Chris Lipp, Thad Kulp, Wyatt Vande Velde, Maxx Percy; middle row left, Tyler Rohn, Cody Rakow, Dawson Janke, Jack Egemo, Anthony Corkins; front row left, Kopen Derby, Domenic Lucero, and Charlie Hanel. Zach Murray, Dylan Arehart, Payton Grodzin, and head coach Bob Nelson are not pictured.

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Page 28

Spring 2018

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Sturgis baseball returns nine letter winners

By Tim Potts Black Hills Pioneer

STURGIS — The Sturgis Brown High School baseball team has been practicing inside for the past six weeks due to the weather, but it will be ready for the season to begin.

“Having nine returning letter winners along with eight other kids who have been growing in the program the past couple years lends well to higher expectations,” said Wade Huntington, Sturgis’ varsity coach.

“Eighteen of the 26 kids in the program have Scooper baseball experience, and a majority of the new players are skilled players.”

Returning letter winners from last season include Nick Anderson, Brian Duran, Alec Keffeler, Carl Nash, Devin Odle, Jaren Puhlman, Covey Ulmer, Daniel Walter, and Josh West. Caleb Bates will be missed on the mound, but Sturgis returns the rest of the pitching staff with the returning staff having considerable experience. Those likely pitching for the Scoopers this season

are Odle, Tristan Walter, Josh West, Nick Anderson, Gage Murphey, Nash, Ulmer, and David Anderson.

“I expect pitching and hitting to be strengths this year. Devin Odle, Tristen Walter, and Josh West should have good seasons on the mound with the rest of the staff providing excellent outings,” Huntington said. “Gage Murphey is looking to make an impact on the mound also. I expect some pitching surprises knowing I have some talented younger kids all looking to make a difference.”

Huntington said the Scoopers should be hitting the ball up and down the line up this season. He added the boys are looking good in the cages, so they simply need to take what they know into each game. Seniors, Brian Duran, Nick Anderson, Devin Odle, Jaren Puhlman, and Covey Ulmer are all looking to have great seasons.

The younger boys are coming to the program more skilled than previous classes, Huntington said, so the future is bright. “It all looks good on paper, but taking it to the

field is another thing,” Huntington said. “If we play to our talents and capabilities, we will have a good season at the varsity and junior varsity level.”

Additional strengths of the Scooper team will be returning catchers Duran and Dylan Gillespie. Chris Olson is the junior varsity coach and assistant varsity coach.

The first game of the season was at Douglas on Mar. 27, and the biggest expectation is to compete. “We expect to compete for the win in every game we play. We have yet to practice outside but have been working hard in the cage and inside drills so I still have more questions than answers at this point. Anxious to see how we hit the ball.” Huntington added.

Last year’s high school record was 10-11, and 22 games are scheduled this season.

A change from previous years is that the regions have been eliminated. High school baseball is following the power point system, and the top four teams respective of power points will host a state qualifying tournament.

The remaining 12 teams will be seated according to power points, which is essentially the same format basketball followed this past season. The winner from each regional tournament plays in the state tournament. All postseason tournaments are single-elimination, with the regional play starting May 19 and the state tournament on May 26.

Members of the 2018 Sturgis Brown High School baseball team are (not in order): Dustin Allen, David Anderson, RJ Andrejewski, Travis Cassen, Brian Duran, John Fischer, Dylan Gillespie, Ethan Huck, Ridge Inhofer, Wren Jacobs, Alec Keffeler, Gage Murphey, Carl Nash, Cody Nelson, Devin Odle, Kelton Olson, Kaden Olson, Jaren Puhlman, Trenton Turnbow, Covey Ulmer, Daniel Walter, Tristan Walters, Josh West, and Zane Heller. Pioneer photo by Tim Potts

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Page 29

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spearfish Sasquatch baseball begins inaugural season

By Dennis Knuckles Black Hills Pioneer

tries, and the winner is Jason Ward of Spearfish.

“We’re looking forward to the SPEARFISH — The team name and having a little Spearfish Sasquatch will bit of fun with it,” said Kevin make its debut in the new Bybee.

“We plan on having some Expedition Woodbat League fun down at the ballpark, and we on May 27. were looking for a name that was Kevin and Heidi Bybee, of unique, and we could have some Rapid City, are the owners of fun with it, and have a fun masthe Spearfish team.

Ryan Wright cot.”

The team will play its Spearfish Sasquatch Bybee said the name is not a games at Black Hills Energy normal team name. head baseball coach Stadium.

“The name is not used a whole “It was a great opportunity lot in sports, and we wanted something that for us when Steve (Wagner) presented it to Spearfish could call their own,” Bybee said. us. Spearfish is an awesome community; we The Expedition League is divided into really wanted to be involved in the commutwo divisions. nity. We love baseball, we love sports; we The Lewis Division teams are: Minot, are going to cater to all ages and have fun N.D.; Dickinson, N.D.; Aberdeen; and with it,” Bybee said.

Pierre.

The Clark Division teams are: The Expedition League is a wood bat colSpearfish; Western Nebraska (Gering, legiant level league.

Neb.); Hastings, Neb.; and Casper, Wyo. Spearfish owners Heidi and Kevin Bybee Teams will play a 64-game schedule had been running a contest in the Black beginning in late May and going through Hills Pioneer to see what the new team mid-August. name would be.

The league will also have a mid-season The choices were: Spearfish Batz, All-Star game and an end-of-the-season Spearfish Sasquatch, Queen City Royals, or playoff to crown a champion.

Spearfish Stingers.

The Expedition League is an elite sumOnly three people correctly picked mer collegiate wood bat baseball league.

Sasquatch as the team name.

Games will be loaded with unique beA drawing was held from the correct en-

Pictured from left are Spearfish Saquatch owners Heidi and Kevin Bybee, and Expedition League President Steve Wagner. Pioneer file photo

tween-inning activities and entertainment in a fan-focused, interactive environment.

League-affiliated teams provide hands-on activities for kids, and offer an incredible entertainment value.

Ryan Wright will be the Sasquatch’s first head coach, and he said the decision to be the Spearfish baseball coach was an easy one.

“It all started with Mitch Messer out of Rapid City giving me a call about the new league that was forming throughout South Dakota, North Dakota, Nebraska, and Wyoming,” said Wright. “I’ve been through the state of South Dakota and doing some recruiting for MSU-Billings and helping Billings (Mont.), and I saw the support those towns received for their American Legion teams, so I figured this league was something that could take off, and after talking on the phone with Kevin (Bybee) I knew this was where I wanted to be.”

Wright has been coaching baseball since 2013, and at the collegiate level since 2016.

He was an assistant baseball coach at Montana State University-Billings, in Billings, Mont., and he has also coached at Cal State University-Northridge In Northridge, Calif.

Wright also coached American Legion baseball in Boise, Idaho; Meridian, Idaho; and Ontario, Ore. Wright has extensive experience not only coaching baseball, but also playing the sport.

Wright was Academic All-Conference at Oklahoma City University from 2013-2015.

During his time in Oklahoma, Wright played on a baseball athletic scholarship, and won the Jim Wade Male Athlete of the Year award.

Wright said his expectations are simple.

“I want to get my feet wet in the head coaching role, and I want to set the tone for the team as far as how we play,” said

Wright. “I want us to be a hard nosed blue-collar type baseball team, but I also want us to have fun while doing it. I want them to learn about the game and go from there.”

The Spearfish Sasquatch baseball team is still looking for host families in the Northern Black Hills.

“I hope the host families help us out. I consider them a part of the team,” Bybee said.

The host family program gives fans a unique opportunity to get to know the Spearfish players, along with providing a valuable service for the team by providing players a place to call home for the summer.

The Sasquatch have a hectic 2018 schedule that will have them playing 64 games in 83 days and traveling all summer.

Host families are needed to help provide beds, home-cooked meals, and a place for the players to call home.

“The hosts families play an integral part of the team’s success. These guys just need to a place to stay, need a bed, a shower, and an occasional meal,” said Bybee. “These guys just need their rest and nutrition while they are here visiting Spearfish, so we need some host families to step up and provide for the players themselves and hopefully make some good, lasting impressions, and possibly even some lifelong friendships between their own families and the players themselves.”

Bybee said many of these players will move on from the Expedition League and play at the next level in the minor league systems and hopefully to the major league level.

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Page 30

Spring 2018

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

BHSU rodeo ready for spring season

By James Marshall Black Hills Pioneer

SPEARFISH —The Black Hills State University rodeo team is ready to begin its spring rodeo season The Yellow Jackets finished the fall season with a huge win at the Bison Stampede in Fargo, N.D. The men’s team earned their first win of the season, scoring 580 points.

Junior Colton Backhaus led the way, bringing home his first all-around title of the season.

The women’s team finished second with 430 points.

Junior Carlee Johnston brought home her second all-around title.

With Glenn Lammers heading into 10th season as the Yellow Jackets’ head coach, he is happy with where his team is at currently.

“I was pleased with our fall season; we’re

right where we want to be coming into the spring.” Lammers said.

The men’s team ended the fall season being tied for fourth place in the region with South Dakota State University, while the women’s team is sitting comfortably at the number 1 spot, leading the second-place team South Dakota State University by more than 800 points.

Not only does the women’s team have the number 1 spot in the region, but they also have two members locking down the top two spots in the all-around. Sophomore Alyssa Lockhart has the number 2 spot in her possession with 840 points. Johnston has a firm grasp on the number 1 spot with 1,135 points.

“We have strength in different areas.

Those athletes have worked hard to come up though the ranks, but they’re not satisfied. They’re still hungry, and that’s how they got there,” said Lammers. “Carlee is

basically leading in three events. That’s an ultra-competitive type of person, and she’s built up on that. She’s stayed hungry.”

The ladies aren’t the only ones at the top of their competition though.

Backhaus is ranked third in the region in the tiedown roping event (337). He is trailing second-place Nolan Sybrant (343) by only six points.

Junior Carson Johnston leads the region in the steer wrestling event sitting at the top with 370 points.

“Our strongest event at this point of the season would have to be the breakaway roping, but we are also first and third in the goat tying,” Lammers said.

The Jackets have the top three spots locked up in the breakaway roping, Carlee Johnston. Savanah Johnston and Jaydn Hollenbeck.

“We got some wind in our sails right

now. The top two teams qualify for the College National Finals, so that’s our goal.

The men are tied for fourth in the region, and we’re leading with the women’s team,” Lammers said. “Right now, we’re in a good spot going into the spring.”

Pictured are members of the 2017-18 Black Hills State University Rodeo team (not in order): Colton Backhaus, Tucker Chytka, Trey Huber, Carson Johnston, Collin Palmer, Jordan Staton, Tayle Brink, Sidney Carey, Kallie Carey, Courtney Dahlgren, Tori Gaer, Keesha Geiger, Cassity Goetz, Jaydn Hollenbeck, Cedar Jandreau, Carlee Johnston, Savanah Johnston, Hallie Kocer, Alyssa Lockhart, Joeni Lueders, Charmayne Macomber, Jada Maher, Laura O’Leary, Courtney Peters, Cydney Peterson, Sarah Scott, Callie Shepherd, and KeAnna Ward. Photo courtesy BHSU Sports Information Department

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SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

2018 Spring sports schedule Spearfish girls’ golf

April 9 hosting St. Thomas More and Sturgis 3 p.m April 10 at Sturgis Quad 3 p.m.

April 17 hosting RC Stevens, RC Central, and, Sturgis 3 p.m.

April 24 at Douglas Invite 10 a.m.

May 1 hosting Spearfish Invite 9 a.m.

May 3 at Hot Springs Invite 10 a.m.

May 8 at Sturgis Invite 3 p.m.

May 10 at Black Hills Conference (Prairie Ridge GC) 9 a.m.

May 15 at Belle Fourche Invite 10 a.m.

May 17 at Meadowbrook West River Challenge 3:30 p.m.

May 21 at Sturgis West River Challenge 3:30 p.m.

May 22 hosting Spearfish West River Challenge 3:30 p.m.

May 29 at Douglas Invite 3:30 p.m.

Spearfish boys’ tennis

April 6 at Brookings Quad 11 a.m.

April 10 hosting Pierre 1 p.m.

April 10 hosting Rapid City Christian 3 p.m.

April 12 hosting Campbell County 4 p.m.

April 17 at RC Stevens (Sioux Park) 2 p.m.

April 17 at RC (Sioux Park) 5 p.m.

April 19 hosting St. Thomas More 4 p.m.

April 24 at Pierre 1 p.m.

April 24 at Pierre (Huron) 3 p.m.

April 27 at RC Invite 2 p.m.

April 28 at RC Invite 8 a.m.

April 30 at RC Stevens 4 p.m.

May 3 hosting RC Central Dual 4 p.m.

May 8 at St. Thomas More (Sioux Park) 2 p.m.

May 11 at East West Invite (Sioux Falls) 8 a.m.

May 11 at East West Invite (Sioux Falls) noon May 12 at East West Invite (Sioux Falls) 8 a.m.

May 12 at East West Invite (Sioux Falls) noon May 14 hosting Rapid City Christian 4 p.m.

Spearfish track and field

April 3 at West River Preview (Rapid City) Noon April 6 hosting Queen City Classic 9 a.m.

April 13 at Track O’ Rama (Rapid City) 9:30 a.m.

April 14 at Center of the Nation (Belle Fourche) 9 a.m.

April 17 at Mountain West Invite (Lead) 9 a.m.

April 20 at Custer Invite 9 a.m.

April 20 at Pierre Invite 1 p.m.

April 21 at Sheridan Invite 10 a.m.

April 24 at Northern Hills Invite (Belle Fourche) 11 a.m.

April 28 at Sturgis Invite 9 a.m.

May 4 at Howard Wood Relays 4 p.m.

May 5 at Howard Wood Relays 8 a.m.

May 8 at Rapid City Qualifier 1 p.m.

May 11 at Black Hills Conference (Douglas) 10 a.m.

May 15 Last Chance Meet (Sturgis) noon

Spearfish Post 164 baseball

April 29 hosting Douglas High School 4 and 6 p.m.

April 30 at Sturgis 1 and 3 p.m.

May 3 hosting Rapid City Post 22 (9 innings) 7-9 p.m.

May 5 hosting Gillette 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.

May 7 hosting Miles City Outlaws 1 and 3 p.m.

May 10 hosting Lead-Deadwood (9 innings) 7:30 p.m.

May 12 hosting Aberdeen 5 and 7 p.m.

May 19 at Gillette 6 and 8 p.m.

May 21 at Rapid City Post 320 1 and 3 p.m.

May 24 at Rapid City Post 22 ((9 innings) May 29 at Scottsbluff 5 and 7 p.m.

May 30 at Alliance, Neb. 1 and 3 p.m.

June 3 hosting Scottsbluff 1 and 3 p.m.

June 4 at Miles City Outlaws 1 and 3 p.m.

June 7 vs. Douglas (Rapid City) 5:30,7:30 p.m.

June 9 hosting Tellinghuisen Tourney 8:15 p.m.

June 10 hosting Tellinghuisen Tourney 6 p.m.

June 10 hosting Tellinghuisen Tourney 8:15 p.m.

June 11 hosting Tellinghuisen Tourney 4:30 p.m.

June 14 hosting Sioux Falls East (9 Inning) 6 p.m.

June 16 at Wahoo, Neb., Tourney 9:30 a.m.

June 16 at Wahoo, Neb., Tourney noon June 17 at Wahoo, Neb., Tourney 9:30 a.m.

June 18 at Wahoo, Neb., Tourney 11:30 a.m.

June 23 at Laramie, Wyo., Tourney 7 p.m.

June 24 at Laramie, Wyo., Tourney 7 p.m.

June 25 at Laramie, Wyo., Tourney (TBA) 7 p.m.

June 28 hosting Sturgis 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.

June 29 hosting Rapid City 320 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.

July 1 at Sturgis 1 and 3 p.m.

July 6 at Webster 5 and 7 p.m.

July 7 at Aberdeen 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Spearfish Sasquatch baseball

May 25 hosting Souris Valley Sabre Dogs 6:35 p.m.

May 26 hosting Souris Valley Sabre Dogs 6:35 p.m.

May 27 hosting Souris Valley Sabre Dogs 5:35 p.m.

May 29 at Western Nebraska Pioneers 6:35 p.m.

May 30 at Western Nebraska Pioneers 6:35 p.m.

May 31 at Western Nebraska Pioneers 6:35 p.m.

June 1 hosting Casper Horseheads 6:35 p.m.

June 2 at Casper Horseheads 6:35 p.m.

June 3 at Casper Horseheads 5:35 p.m.

June 4 at Hastings Sodbusters 5:35 p.m.

June 5 at Hastings Sodbusters 5:35 p.m.

June 6 at Hastings Sodbusters 5:35 p.m.

June 8 at Pierre Trappers 5:35 p.m.

June 9 at Souris Valley Sabre Dogs 5:35 p.m.

June 10 at Souris Valley Sabre Dogs 5:35 p.m.

June 11 at HubCity Hotshots 5:35 p.m.

June 12 hosting HubCity Hotshots 6:35 p.m.

June 13 hosting Hastings Sodbusters 6:35 p.m.

June 14 hosting Hastings Sodbusters 6:35 p.m.

June 15 at Pierre Trappers 5:35 p.m.

June 16 at Pierre Trappers 5:35 p.m.

June 17 at Pierre Trappers 4:35 p.m.

June 18 at Casper Horseheads 6:35 p.m.

June 19 hosting Casper Horseheads 6:35 p.m.

June 20 hosting Western Nebraska Pioneers 6:35 p.m.

June 21 hosting Badlands Big Sticks 6:35 p.m.

June 22 hosting Badlands Big Sticks 6:35 p.m.

June 23 hosting Casper Horseheads 6:35 p.m.

June 24 hosting Casper Horseheads 5:35 p.m.

June 25 at Badlands Big Sticks 6:35 p.m.

June 26 at Badlands Big Sticks 6:35 p.m.

June 27 at Badlands Big Sticks 6:35 p.m.

June 29 hosting Hastings Sodbusters 6:35 p.m.

June 30 hosting Hastings Sodbusters 6:35 p.m.

July 1 at Hastings Sodbusters TBD July 2 at Hastings Sodbusters TBD July 3 at Hastings Sodbusters TBD July 4 hosting Casper Horseheads 7:35 p.m.

July 5 at Casper Horseheads 6:35 p.m.

July 6 at Casper Horseheads 6:35 p.m.

July 7 at Casper Horseheads 6:35 p.m.

July 10 hosting Badlands Big Sticks 6:35 p.m.

July 11 hosting Western Nebraska Pioneers 6:35 p.m.

July 12 hosting Western Nebraska Pioneers 6:35 p.m.

July 13 hosting Hastings Sodbusters 6:35 p.m.

July 14 hosting Hastings Sodbusters 6:35 p.m.

July 15 hosting Hastings Sodbusters 6:35 p.m.

July 16 at Hastings Sodbusters 5:35 p.m.

July 17 at Hastings Sodbusters 5:35 p.m.

July 18 hosting Pierre Trappers 6:35 p.m.

July 19 hosting Pierre Trappers 6:35 p.m.

July 20 hosting Western Nebraska Pioneers 6:35 p.m.

July 21 at Western Nebraska Pioneers 6:35 p.m.

July 23 at Pierre Trappers 5:35 p.m.

July 24 hosting Pierre Trappers 6:35 p.m.

July 25 hosting Casper Horseheads 6:35 p.m.

July 26 hosting Casper Horseheads 6:35 p.m.

July 27 hosting HubCity Hotshots 6:35 p.m.

July 28 at Badlands Big Sticks 6:35 p.m.

July 29 hosting Souris Valley Sabre Dogs 5:35 p.m.

July 30 hosting Souris Valley Sabre Dogs 6:35 p.m.

July 31 at Pierre Trappers 5:35 p.m.

Aug. 1 hosting Pierre Trappers 6:35 p.m.

Aug. 2 at Souris Valley Sabre Dogs 5:35 p.m.

Aug. 3 at Souris Valley Sabre Dogs 5:35 p.m.

Aug. 4 at Western Nebraska Pioneers 6:35 p.m.

Aug. 10-12 Playoffs

Lead-Deadwood track and field

March 23 at RC Developmental 10 a.m.

March 29 at Douglas Invite 9 a.m.

April 6 hosting Queen City Classic 9 a.m.

April 14 at Center of the Nation (Belle Fourche) 9 a.m.

April 17 hosting Mountain West Invite (Lead) 9 a.m.

April 20 at Custer Invite 9 a.m.

April 24 at Northern Hills Invite (Belle Fourche) 11 a.m.

April 28 at Sturgis Invite 9 a.m.

May 4 at Howard Wood Relays 4 p.m.

May 5 at Howard Wood Relays 8 a.m.

May 8 at Rapid City Qualifier 1 p.m.

May 11 at Black Hills Conference (Douglas) 10 a.m.

May 15 at Sturgis Last Chance Meet noon

Lead-Deadwood girls’ golf

April 9 at Douglas Invite 3 p.m.

April 12 at Hot Springs 3 p.m.

April 19 at Belle Fourche Pre-Region 10 a.m.

April 24 at Douglas 10 a.m.

May 1 hosting Spearfish 9 a.m.

May 3 at Hot Springs 10 a.m.

May 8 at Sturgis 3 p.m.

May 10 at Douglas 9 a.m.

May 14 hosting RC Central 4 p.m.

May 15 at Belle Fourche 10 a.m.

May 25 at Belle Fourche Region 10 a.m.

May 29 at Douglas 3 p.m.

Lead-Deadwood baseball

April 6 hosting Rapid City Central, varsity at 5 and 7 p.m.

April 8 at Bennett County, JV at 1:30 p.m., varsity at 3 p.m.

April 12 at Hot Springs, JV at 4:30 p.m., varsity at 7 p.m.

April 14 at South Central (Gregory), JV and varsity at 3 p.m.

April 18 at Douglas, JV at 5 p.m., varsity at 7 p.m.

April 19 hosting Todd County in Rapid City, varsity at 4 p.m.

April 20 hosting Bennett County, 5 and 7 p.m.

April 24 at St. Thomas More, JV at 5 p.m., varsity at 7 p.m.

April 26 hosting Sturgis, JV at 5 p.m., varsity at 7 p.m.

April 29 hosting Platte-Geddes at Rapid City, varsity at 1 p.m.

May 1 at Bennett County, JV at 4 p.m., varsity at 6 p.m.

May 3 hosting St. Thomas More, 5 and 7 p.m.

May 5 hosting Chamberlain, JV at 3 p.m., varsity at 5 p.m.

May 10 hosting Hot Springs, 6 p.m.

May 11 at Rapid City Central, varsity at 5 p.m., JV at 7 p.m.

Belle Fourche girls’ golf

April 9 hosting triangular 3 p.m.

April 12 at Hot Springs 3 p.m.

April 19 at Belle Fourche Pre-Region 10 a.m.

April 24 at Pre-Conference (Box Elder) 10 a.m.

May 1 at Spearfish Invite 9 a.m.

May 3 at Hot Springs Invite 10 a.m.

May 7 at Sturgis 2:30 p.m.

May 10 at Black Hills Conference (Box Elder) 9 a.m.

May 15 at Belle Fourche Invite 10 a.m.

May 24 at Belle Fourche Region 10 a.m.

May 29 at Douglas 3:30 p.m.

Belle Fourche track and field

March 23 at RC Developmental 10 a.m.

March 29 at Douglas Invite 9 a.m.

April 3 at West River Preview (Rapid City) Noon April 6 at Spearfish Queen City Invite 9 a.m.

April 14 hosting Center of the Nation 9 a.m.

April 17 at Mountain West Invite (Lead) 9 a.m.

SCHEDULE Pg 32

Page 32 from Pg 31

Sturgis Brown girls’ golf

SCHEDULE April 20 at Custer Invite 9 a.m.

April 24 hosting Northern Hills Invite 11 a.m.

April 28 at Sturgis Black Hills Classic 9 a.m.

May 4 at Howard Wood Relays 4 p.m.

May 5 at Howard Wood Relays 8 a.m.

May 8 at Rapid City Qualifier 1 p.m.

May 11 at Black Hills Conference Invite (Box Elder) 10 a.m.

May 17 hosting Region 9 a.m.

BHSU track and field

April 14 at Bauer Invite (Rapid City) April 19-21 at Mt. Sac Relays (Walnut, Calif.)

April 20 at Blue Hawk Invite (Dickinson, N.D.)

BHSU women’s golf

April 15-16 at Augustana Spring Invite April 23-24 at RMAC Championship (Lakewood, Colo.)

BHSU softball

April 7 hosting Colorado Mesa noon and 2 p.m.

April 8 hosting Colorado Mesa 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

April 14 hosting Metropolitan State-Denver noon and 2 p.m.

April 15 hosting Metropolitan State-Denver 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

April 21 at Regis University noon and 2 p.m.

April 21 at Regis University 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

April 28 at UC-Colorado Springs noon and 2 p.m.

April 29 at UC-Colorado Springs 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

BHSU rodeo

April 6-7 at South Dakota State University April 13-14 hosting Will Lantis Yellow Jacket Stampede April 20-21 at Nebraska-Lincoln April 27-28 at Hastings College May 4-5 at Dickinson State

from Pg 29

SASQUATCH benefits, including two season tickets to all home games, discounts on Sasquatch merchandise and a free subscription to the webcasting service.

“The players start showing up around May 18, and we are looking for host families to step forward and become part of the team in that respect,” Bybee said.

If you want to take advantage of this meaningful opportunity, and be a host family, or would like further information, contact the team at spearfishsasquatch@ gmail.com Here are Sasquatch players’ names, and their bios.

Thomas Imholte Thomas Imholte is a 5-foot-9 junior catcher from Mankato, Minn. Imholte is the son of Lynn Imholte and is the sibling of Phil and Marie. Both of his siblings played collegiate sports for St. Cloud State University. His sister Marie played softball, and his brother Phil played baseball. Imholte played his first two collegiate seasons at the University of Mary where he earned the 2016 NSIC Gold Glove Award as a catcher. He is now playing for Minnesota State University – Mankato and earning his degree in accounting.

Daniel Freiburger Daniel Freiburger is a 5-foot-10 junior infielder from Meridan, Idaho. Freiburger is the son of Jane and Joe Freiburger and

Spring 2018

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

April 9 at Spearfish 3 p.m.

April 10 at Rapid City Quad 3 p.m.

April 12 at Rapid City Quad 3 p.m.

April 17 at Spearfish 3 p.m.

April 19 at Belle Fourche Invite 10 a.m.

April 24 at Pierre Invite 9 a.m.

April 24 at Pre Black Hills Conference 9 a.m.

April 26 at Aberdeen Central Invite 9 a.m.

May 1 at Spearfish Invite 9 a.m.

May 3 at Huron Invite 9 a.m.

May 7 hosting Belle Fourche 2:30 p.m.

May 8 at hosting Sturgis Invite 3 p.m.

May 10 at Black Hills Conference (Box Elder) 9 a.m.

May 11 Mitchell Invite 9 a.m.

May 17 at RC West River Challenge 3:30 p.m.

May 21 hosting Sturgis West River Challenge 3:30 p.m.

May 22 at Spearfsih West River Challenge 3:30 p.m.

May 29 at Douglas Invite 3:30 p.m.

Sturgis Brown track and field

April 3 at West River Preview (Rapid City) Noon April 6 at Spearfish Queen City Invite 9 a.m.

April 13 at Rapid City Track-O-Rama 9:30 a.m.

April 20 at Pierre noon April 20 at Custer Invite 9 a.m.

April 28 hosting Sturgis Black Hills Classic 9 a.m.

May 4 at Howard Wood 4 p.m.

May 5 at Howard Wood 8 a.m.

May 5 at Mountain West Invite (Lead) 9 a.m.

May 8 at Rapid City Qualifier 1 p.m.

May 11 at Black Hills Conference Meet (Box Elder) 10 a.m.

May 15 at Sturgis Last Chance Meet noon

Sturgis Brown baseball

April 7 hosting Pierre 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

April 12 hosting St. Thomas More 7 p.m.

is the brother of Jenni. In his first two years at Corban University, he has played in 93 games. As a sophomore Freiburger scored 17 runs for the Warriors, with 12 stolen bases and a .949 fielding percentage. He is playing for Corban University and plans to major in business accounting.

Jack Mattson Jack Mattson is a 5-foot-11 junior first baseman from Chanhassen, Minn. He is the son of Mike and Kris Mattson and brother to Katie. Mattson’s father played baseball for Minnesota State University, while his uncle played football also playing for the Mavericks. His grandfather played football for at the University of South Dakota. Mattson plans to major in corporate finance at MSU. Zach Solano Zach Solano is a 5-foot-10 freshman outfielder from Rapid City. Solano is the son of Alan and Carol Solano. He is the brother to Jaimie, Rachel, Ashley and Parker. His sister Ashley currently runs track at Augustana University in Sioux Falls. In his senior campaign at Central High School, he had a .357 batting average with eight home runs. Solano is studying business at North Dakota State University.

Haden Keller Haden Keller is a 5-foot-11 freshman utility and outfielder from Minden, Nev. He is the son of Stephanie and Karl Keller and is the brother to Madi. Keller plans to major in kinesiology at Northwest Nazarene University.

April 14 at Huron 11 a.m.

April 14 at Sioux Falls Washington 1 p.m.

April 15 at Brookings 11 a.m.

April 17 at Gillette 5 and 7 p.m.

April 19 hosting Rapid City Central, 6 p.m.

April 26 at Lead-Deadwood, 7 p.m.

April 28 at Rapid City, vs. Douglas, 1 p.m.

April 29 vs. Billings, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

May 6 at Rapid City, vs. Miles City, noon May 7 hosting Rapid City Central, 6 p.m.

May 10 hosting Rapid City Stevens 7 p.m.

May 12 hosting Douglas 2 p.m.

May 15 at Rapid City Stevens 7 p.m.

Newell golf

April 6 at Rapid City Elks 9:30 a.m.

April 13 at Wall Invite 9:30 a.m.

April 20 at Philip 9:30 a.m.

April 24 at Sundance Invite TBA April 27 hosting Newell/LMC 9:30 a.m.

May 4 at Lemmon 9:30 a.m.

May 8 hosting Sundance TBA May 11 at Marjen Huber Memorial (Belle Fourche) 9:30 a.m.

May 14 at Black Hills Golf Classic (Hart Ranch) 9:30 a.m.

May 21 at Region 6B Tourney (Hart Ranch) 9:30 a.m.

Newell track and field

April 6 at Spearfish Queen City Invite 9:30 a.m.

April 14 Belle Fourche Center of the Nation 9 a.m.

April 17 at Mt. West (Lead) 9 a.m.

April 20 at Custer Invite 9 a.m.

April 24 Belle Fourche Northern Hills Invite noon April 28 at Harold Severson Invite (Lemmon) 10 a.m.

April 28 at Sturgis Black Hills Classic 9 a.m.

May 4 at Howard Wood 2 p.m.

May 5 at Howard Wood 8 a.m.

May 8 at Rapid City Qualifier 2 p.m.

May 11 at Little Moreau Conference (Lemmon) 10 a.m.

May 17 at Region (Lemmon) 10 a.m.

Charley Hesse Charley Hesse is a 6-foot-1 sophomore infielder from Mendota Heights, Minn.

Hesse is the son of Eric and JoAnna Hesse and brother of Thomas and Ruth. His father played football, and his mother ran track and played soccer and softball at Macalester College. His sister, Ruth, played soccer at St. Olaf College. Hesse is majoring in marketing at North Dakota State University. Hesse was a four-year letter winner in high school and was named All-Conference in his junior and senior seasons. At NDSU, Hesse played in 13 games as a freshman with one start in the Bisons victory over Western Illinois.

Anthony Rodriguez Anthony Rodriguez is a 5-foot-10 sophomore infielder from Gilroy, Calif. He is the son of Mark and Laura Rodriguez and is the brother of Jonathon and Charlotte.

He started in all 35 games as a freshman with six doubles and 12 RBI for a .263 batting average. Rodriguez is studying communications at Cal State – San Marcos.

AJ Davis Avery (AJ) Davis is a 6-foot freshman infielder from Clarkston, Wash. Davis is the son of Lea and Isaac Kelley and the sibling of Ethan, Eliot, Colt and Case. He was a three-sport athlete in high school earning letters in baseball, basketball and football. Davis was selected to the Associated Press All-State team in baseball. Davis is majoring in business and

marketing at Lewis-Clark State College.

Jackson Fuller Jackson Fuller is a 5-foot-8 freshman catcher from Lewiston, Idaho. Fuller is the son of Jack Fuller and Linda Baldeck.

He is majoring in secondary education at Lewis-Clark State College.

Justin Folz Justin Folz is a 5-foot-11 freshman infielder from Monroe, Wash. He is the son of Jeff and Jennifer and the sibling of Sarah and Emma. Folz is majoring in business administration at Northwest Nazarene University.

Haydan Hastings Haydan Hastings is a 6-foot sophomore catcher from San Diego, Calif. He is the son of Michael and Ramona Hastings and is the brother of Dylan. His brother Dylan played collegiate baseball at William Woods University. Hastings played in eight games as a freshman and started in two. In high school he was named defensive player of the year in 2015 and 2016 as a catcher. At Gonzaga University he is studying public relations while pursuing a minor in broadcasting.

Cody Carlson Cody Carlson is a 5-foot-10 sophomore pitcher from Rapid City. Carlson is the son of Bryan and Kelley Carlson and brother to Jordan, Danielle, and twin to Kyle. His older brother Jordan played baseball for Montana State – Billings.

He previously played for the Post 22 American Legion organization in Rapid City.