Sports Journal Winter 2018

SPORTS JOURNAL

OTTERS GIRLS’ HOCKEY SKATING TOWARD STATE PAGE 6 ASHLYN FRONNING, ISABELLE STREGE, EMILY FRIGAARD, MAYSON JENSEN / FERGUS FALLS GYMNASTICS

OTTER TAIL CENTRAL WRESTLING: RELOADED PAGE 14 WINTER 2018

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WINTER SPORTS JOURNAL

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IN THE CLUBHOUSE 8

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Fergus Falls boys’ swimming and diving ready to make splash

10

Fergus Falls gymnastics looks to continue success

14

Otter Tail Central wrestling prepares to defend section championship

23

Pelican Rapids girls’ basketball set to make deep playoff push

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Editor Zach Stich Contributing Writers Zach Stich, Mat Holding Eagle, and Brian Pickering Cover design by Zach Stich Cover photo of Fergus Falls gymnastics members Ashlyn Fronning, Isabelle Strege, Emily Frigaard, Mayson Jensen

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MAROON AND GOLD: Fergus Falls’ Caleb Danielson competes for the Ottertail Nordic ski team last year. This season, the team has gone from being self-sustaining to a full member of the Fergus Falls High School varsity programs.

COOL RUNNINGS Nordic ski team becomes full fledged Fergus Falls sport

By Mathew Holding Eagle

M

onumental changes are in store for the winter sports team formerly known as the Otter Tail Nordic ski team as it transitions from a self-funded club sport — which included area schools — to a

school-funded league — whose rosters for both boys and girls is now comprised entirely of Kennedy Secondary School (KSS) students. The changes even come complete with a new name: the Fergus Falls Nordic ski team.

Speaking on the process that brought about the shift from club to league play, fourth-year head coach Samantha VanWechel-Meyer praised one of the figureheads of Fergus Falls athletics.

“The ski team became a school-sponsored sport through the work of activities director Derek Abrahams who brought this to the Fergus Falls School Board for a vote,” she said.

“We are thankful for Derek Abrahams and the school board’s support of this program.

2 | FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018

We are also grateful for Otter Tail Nordic Ski Association’s nearly two decades of support of the Otter Tail Nordic ski team. Otter Tail Nordic Ski Association continues to promote and support Nordic as a lifelong activity for people of all ages, as well as serve as a booster organization for the Otters Nordic ski team.”

With an increase in KSS students on the team’s rosters and a decline of participation by area schools’ students the time to rethink the Nordic ski program from the ground up had come.

“The Nordic Ski Association came to me last spring and asked about the possibility of becoming a school funded activity like others,” Abrahams said. “I then went through the

process, bringing it to the school board and the board agreed. After they got approval I worked with both the Nordic Ski Association and the school board to get the coaches, uniforms, etc. in place. As well as working with the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) to change our name from Otter Tail Nordic to the Fergus Falls Otters since we are no longer a co-op. It has been a very smooth process working both with the club and the school board.”

For its inaugural season, the Fergus Falls Otters Nordic ski team will participate in Section 8 of the Central Lakes Conference losing only one member from its ranks (Molly Dirks) while returning standouts Caleb Danielson (senior), Mathew Oehler (senior) and Kolsen Papon (sophomore) for the boys and Emma Rund (junior) and Anna Erickson (freshmen) for the girls. Last year the boys finished fourth in the conference and 11th in sections while the girls also finished fourth in the conference and eighth in the section. This year’s veteran skiers will be joined by up-and-comers Julian Kenyon-Spidahl (freshman), Anders Anthonisen-Brown (freshman), Silje Ronnevik (freshman) and Ella Mayer (freshman).

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skill and leadership to the team and everyone is very excited to compete this year as Otters,” VanWechel-Mayer said, adding that as a young team with many new skiers the team will focus on skills and technique development for the athletes this season. “With a greater number of skiers on the team this year we anticipate having a competitive season in which we are able to race and score full teams in each of our races. We are looking to be top three in the conference with our home-course advantage as we host the conference ski meet on Jan. 29,” VanWechel-Mayer said that the team’s schedule will not be affected by the change and that she feels Brainerd, Alexandria, Bemidji and Little Falls are the teams to beat in the conference. As for the Hillcrest students that participated on the team as part of the co-op, all but one of the skiers from last year have graduated, “We are sad to end the cooperative relationship with Hillcrest and their student-athletes as our team enjoyed getting to know the Hillcrest students and meeting the many Norwegian students who have skied with the team throughout the years,” she said.

“We are grateful to Hillcrest for their years of partnership and the support they provided in coaching assistance and facility use.”

Speaking as the athletic director Abrahams

was confident in the direction the new sports program is moving toward, “I think it is a great change! While we do have some other independently funded programs, Nordic ski is a full MSHSL activity just like our other activities/sports. They have shown growth and viability for the past 20 years and even though there was to my knowledge one other attempt to become school funded about 15 years ago, other circumstances prevented it from happening at that time. The timing was right and we are already seeing an increase in numbers this first week.”

As VanWechel-Meyer prepares her team for the start of the Nordic ski season she feels the added benefits awarded to the team from the change will reflect in her team’s competitiveness.

“I am excited for the opportunities that this change will allow our team and through those opportunities the growth and development that we will see in our skiers and team,” VanWechel-Meyer said. “As a school-sponsored sport, we are able to overcome some of the major challenges that hindered our team’s success such as transportation to practice.”

VanWechel-Meyer will be assisted this season by Anders Spidahl, Sean Taylor and Knut Ronnevik.

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FERGUS FALLS

BOYS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

T

he Fergus Falls boys’ basketball team is ready to get back on the court after falling short of its third trip to the Class AAA state tournament last season.

The challenge for the Otters will be replacing several key contributors from last year’s roster including Harrison Christensen, Marshall King, Jacob Marvel, Noah Raitz, Nathan Rund, Eric Salveson and Austin Stanislawski.

The Otters will look to the experience of seniors Matthew Johnson and Nic Pearson to help guide their teammates through the rough waters of the Central Lakes Conference.

“We are a relatively inexperienced bunch, as we graduated seven players from last year’s team, and 12 players over the last two years,” Otters head coach Matt Johnson said. “We will have to learn to compete at a high level night in and night out to put ourselves in the best position to win games.”

Coach Johnson will look to the fresh faces of Bauer Rogelstad, Ethan Olson, Parker Jacobs, Cody Norgren, Brock Kotschevar, Jack Culbertson, Dominic Aguilar and Chance Fazio to fill out the varsity roster.

“We have great kids in our program, who put team success above individual accomplishments. This has been a staple of our program in the past, and will continue to be a strength with this group. They want to win and enjoy playing for each other,” Johnson said.

Matthew Johnson/ Guard Looking at the favorite in the conference, Johnson identified Willmar as they return most of their roster from last year. But in a view of the section, Johnson believes it can go many ways. “I think our section has about six teams that will all be competing for home playoff games at the end of the season. It will be fun to see how it all shakes out.”

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FERGUS FALLS

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

A

fter a strong campaign in the 2017-18 season that saw the Fergus Falls girls’ basketball team post a 21-8 record, the Otters return a strong core of players that will look to compete in a tough Central Lakes and Section 8AAA this season.

“This entire group of girls had a strong offseason and we are looking forward to them being ready to help the Otters this winter,” Strand said. “Our strengths of the team will be their athleticism and work ethic.”

Returning for the Otters will be seniors Lily Pearson, Emma Norgard, Nycole Mouritsen, Sam Evavold, Amzie Aho, juniors Gretchen Davis, Olivia Kaliher, Andreya Lockett, Sabrina Fronning, Carlie Meis, sophomore Paige Pearson and freshmen Ellie Colbeck and Tori Ratz.

“Keys to a successful season will be to keep all of our girls healthy throughout the offseason and season. The girls will need to enjoy playing hard for each other whenever they step on the basketball court.

The offseason time working on fundamentals and strength is another important key to having success during the season,” Strand said.

According to Strand, Alexandria will again be the team to beat both in the conference and the section, while Bemidji and Detroit Lakes will also be very competitive in section play.

Strand will be assisted by Josh Steer, Kevin Pearson, Alyssa Huseby and Dan Sternberg.

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FERGUS FALLS

GIRLS’ HOCKEY

By Zach Stich

T

he Fergus Falls girls’ hockey team is loaded with experienced talent this season and should look to push their way to the top of the Central Lakes Conference and Section 6A. Head coach Tim Lill, now in his fifth year, returns a plethora of players that should allow the team to compete with every team on the schedule.

We have the potential to be three lines deep and score goals,” Lill said. “Consistent goaltending and depth at defense will determine when the season ends. The girls have rightfully set the bar high and are extremely excited and capable of having a lot of success.”

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Andersen, Jade Zierden, Vivian Karsnia, Amy Johnson, Jadyn McKeever and Mady Eklund. With this top-notch group, the Otters can allow some of its younger skaters to get up to speed and pick their spots to gain experience.

The Otters true strength will be their depth at forward and the return of two senior goalies. While having such an experienced crew, defensively Fergus Falls will see a younger crew settling into those positions.

Lill sees Alexandria, the reigning Section 6A champ, as the team to beat in both the section and conference, while Willmar and River Lakes will also be near the top of the conference.

Lill will be assisted by Todd Hershner, Fritz Karsnia, Brooks Andersen and Niki Kaasa.

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FERGUS FALLS

BOYS’ HOCKEY

By Zach Stich

T

he Fergus Falls boys’ hockey team closed out the 2017-18 season with an 11-12-3 record, falling in the Section 6A quarterfinals. After graduating nine seniors from last year’s team, head coach Mike Donaghue will look to replace a lot of key components as the Otters look to stay competitive in a tough section and Central Lakes Conference.

Losing a lot of players from the last season, Donaghue has several younger players itching to step in for varsity time, but the big question mark will be between the pipes. “We will be looking for someone that wants to step up and take control of the goaltending,” Donaghue said. “With the loss of Drew Luhning, we do not have anyone with varsity experience, so it will be a great competition every day.” Scott VanVoorhis and Ian Stumbo will get varsity opportunities to put the goalie mask on

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Returning this year will be forwards Declan Young, Aaron Shelstad and Chase Jensen, as well as defensemen Mason Hoffman, Kaden Peterson and Isaac Ahlgren. This group should provide consis-

tency while the coaching staff makes line adjustments and pairs the right combinations.

Key newcomers to the team are sophomores Isaac Young (forward) and Ian Richards (defense). “We have a great class of ninth- and 10th-graders moving into the program and it will be fun to watch their Best of Luck to All Area Sports Teams! progress as the season moves forward,” Donaghue said.

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FERGUS FALLS

BOYS’ SWIMMING AND DIVING Tristan Trosvig

By Zach Stich

A

fter a career full of accolades, Fergus Falls boys’ swimming and diving head coach Tom Uvaas retired after last season. Taking the helm in 201819 will be former assistant Randy Hansen as he looks to lead a talented Otters team with the intent of getting as many people possible to the Class A state meet.

The team will not be without Uvaas though as the former head coach will assist Hansen this season.

“We have a strong senior class with state meet experience,” Hansen said. “Their leadership will be crucial to our success.

We also have the best assistant coach in the state, which is a huge advantage for us.”

The Otters will return state swimmers Tyler Hansen (captain) and Tristan Trosvig (captain), as well as state divers Caleb Neubauer and Evan Erlandson. Also returning this season will be seniors Titus Seland (captain), Gavan Anderson, Andrew Danielson, Tristan Trosvig and Sawyer Votava, juniors Will Pawlowski, Isaac Peterson and Steven Wohlenhaus, sophomores Ryan Aanerud, Sean Edman, Max Nacke and Tate Preston.

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Sartell will once again be the team to beat in the Central Lakes Conference and Section 5A. Also assisting Hansen this season will be Mike Hartwell (diving) and Andrew Kowalski.

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FERGUS FALLS

WRESTLING

By Zach Stich

T

he Fergus Falls wrestling team has been searching for its footing the past few seasons as several young wrestlers looked to gain experience. Last season, the Otters finished the year 4-18, but did send an individual to the Class AA state wrestling tournament. This season, head coach Adam Schlepp sees a more experienced team take the mat as they push to be competitive in a strong Central Lakes Conference and Section 8AA. “We have lots of experience in this year’s lineup,” Schlepp said. “Several second year varsity wrestlers are looking

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Eli Sorum to turn the corner this year are: Caden Olsen, Delvin Roberts, Ethan Krause, Jacob Widness and Lucas Oliphant.”

Senior captains Cole Fronning, Eli Sorum and Justin Boyd will look to provide guidance for the team. Also returning this year is junior state-qualifying heavyweight Dustin Portales. Portales took top honors in the section meet and made it to the second day of the state tournament. Sophomore win-leader Kaden Hartwell will also look to provide a spark during duels.

Schlepp points to the team’s experience over the past few seasons and the leadership built through it as the number one reason the team should see increased success this season.

“We should be able to secure more wins this season than last. I also look forward to working with this group as

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they are starting to develop some wrestling culture, and that is extremely fun to be a part of,” Schlepp said.

One of the areas of improvement that the Otters identified is depth. “We are always tyring to grow the program. Our numbers are moving in the right direction, but we always want to improve there,” Schlepp said.

Willmar will again be the team to beat in the Central Lakes Conference, while Perham, Detroit Lakes, Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton and Pierz will all be in the mix for the section crown.

Schlepp will be assisted by Perry Holm, Andrew Goracke, Matt Hintz, Gus Makovsky and Joe Barfknecht. “Our coaching staff is well experienced, prepared, and excited to take on the upcoming 2018-2019 season,” Schlepp said.

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FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018 | 9

FERGUS FALLS

GYMNASTICS

By Zach Stich

T

he Fergus Falls gymnastics team is ready for another exciting season in 2018. After sending two members of the team to the state tournament, the Otters hope that they can push to the top of the section and compete against the best the Central Lakes Conference has to offer.

The Otters return state qualifier Mayson Jensen, as well as Ashlyn Fronning and Emily Frigaard. Last year’s Section 8A Coach of the Year Satera Harlow will be looking at several key up and comers to help fill out the varsity roster and replace last year’s state qualifier Camryn Appert. Megan Hughes, Abby Strege and Olivia Trout have been tabbed as gymnasts that will have the potential to be key contributors to the team this year.

The Otters coach stated that the team’s

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GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

A

fter gaining valuable experience during the 2017-18 season, the Hillcrest girls’ basketball team hopes that another year on the court will translate to more victories this sea-

son. “This team gained a lot of varsity experience last year and I expect it to pay off this season,� Comets head coach Hannah Clark said.

The team returns senior Olivia Foss (forward), junior Anna Rasmussen (forward), and sophomores Mackenzie Foss (guard) and Audra Ewan (guard). After a 2-22 season, this group is hungry to improve and put the Comets back near the top of the conference.

Clark identifies senior Darya Wolniak (guard), juniors Molly McGuire (forward), Kate Peterson (guard) and sophomore Cassandra Twedt (guard) as key up-and-comers. “We will have a more balanced attack from both the guard and post positions than we had last year. We won’t be a very tall team, so we will have to rely on hard work and our athleticism when playing teams with more height,� Clark said.

Clark views Parkers Prairie and Underwood as the teams to beat in the Little Eight Conference, while Ada-Borup and Pelican Rapids are favored in Section 6A playoffs.

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HILLCREST

BOYS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

W

ith an up and down 2017-18 season, the Hillcrest boys’ basketball team will hit the court looking to get back to the top of the Little Eight Conference and make a deep push into the Section 6A playoffs this year.

The Comets graduated several key components from last season’s squad, but have young and promising talent that will look to lead the way. Senior Aleksander Frustol (center), Gabe Preston (guard) and Nick Foss (guard) will be looked at for guidance, while junior Thomas Zwiers (guard) and sophomore Micah Foss (guard) will look to use their athletic ability to keep the Comets in contention.

Head coach Gregg Preston’s teams usually portray a strong defensive acumen, but the true test of the team will be finding depth that will allow their starters an opportunity to get a breather in games.

With the way the conference is shaking out this season, the Comets should be right in the mix, while Battle Lake and Parkers Prairie will also be favored to challenge for the crown. In the section, Norman County East/Ulen-Hitterdal, Henning and Ortonville are favorites to end up in the section final.

Coach Preston will be assisted by Ryan Garvin and Wayne Stender.

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UNDERWOOD

BOYS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

T

he Underwood boys’ basketball team will hit the court in 2018 with a new head coach in Evan Meece. That won’t be the only change the Rockets will have this year as the team will need to find replacements for two graduates that provided 30 points per game for the squad.

Seniors Daxton Olson, Levi Blaskowski, Nick Seiple, and juniors Winston Heifort and Canaan Kugler will provide consistency on the floor as Meece implements his style of ball. The group hopes that they can improve on last year’s 7-19 record and make a splash in the Section 6A play-

offs.

“I believe we will be a very competitive team this year and have a solid core to work around,” Meece said. “If we can play our game and stay out of foul trouble, we will be a strong team.”

The coach points to the team’s size and strength as their key to success as their strong defensive play and rebounding will allow the Rockets to get several second-chance buckets.

While Meece likes the make of his team, the coach identified Parkers Prairie as the team to beat in both the Little Eight Conference and sec-

Nick Seiple/ Forward

tion. Norman County East/ Ulen-Hitterdal, Henning and Ortonville will also be tough

competitors in the section.

Meece will be assisted by Ryan Hendrickson.

UNDERWOOD

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

We Are Proud Of You!

“I feel we will be competitive and have a shot to do something special by the end of the season,” Rockets head coach Brian Hovland said. “We will have some growing pains but I see a ton of potential with these girls.”

The team will be led by seniors Morgan Evavold (post) and Abby Marfell (post), juniors Kayla Rocholl (guard), Ally Johnson (post) and Ceri Meech (wing), and sophomore Brooke Hovland (guard). Hovland points to the teams depth and speed as being the Rockets biggest advantages entering the season.

UNDERWOOD SCHOOL DISTRICT #550

A

fter an impressive 2017-18 season that saw the Underwood girls’ basketball team post a 20-8 record and finish as runners-up in Section 6A, the Rockets will look for replacements for a trio key players in the upcoming season.

Morgan Evavold/ Post

Some of the key up and comers that will look to contribute to the varsity roster will be junior Kindra Peterson (guard), sophomores Ruby Wahlen (post) and Lydia Baker(wing/post) and freshman Josey Bugbee (wing).

The team will need to replace the scoring that graudates Sydney Hovland, Brenna Tinjum and Corina Mark provided.

Coach Hovland believes that if the team plays smart basketball they can find the open shot.

Coach Hovland sees Parkers Prairie as the team to beat in the Little Eight Conference, while Ada-Borup and Pelican Rapids will be the top contenders in the section.

Brian Hovland will be assisted

by Carly Jensen this season.

FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018 | 13

OTTER TAIL CENTRAL

WRESTLING

Matt Hendricks

By Zach Stich

T

he Otter Tail Central wrestling team upended the defending Section 6A champion West Central Area/Ashby/Brandon-Evansville Knights to advance to the state tournament last season. The Bulldogs went on to finish fifth overall.

In the 2018-19 season, OTC looks to reload as they make another run toward state.

The team graduated state champion Ben Naddy, Nate Hart, Marc Hendricks, R.J. Ehlert, Alex Erlandson, Michael Fielding, Kevin Tierney and Ramon Lopez Moen.

Head coach Scott Hart will look to several of his young wrestlers to fill those roles.

But the cupboard is far from bare as the team returns Laredo Bugbee, Hayden Hart, Max Naddy, Matt Hendricks, Zane Swanson, Hunter Doll, Caden Johnson and Wyatt Thorson.

Key up and comers for the Bulldogs will be Kalen Kraft, Brien Poser, Blake Malone, Conner Thierney, Noah Schleske, Nik Gardin, Nathan Stavaas and Cian Buehler.

Coach Hart sees the team’s state experience and steady lineup as strengths to the team, while the team will need to improve on eliminating any doubt as they look to hit the mat.

The Bulldogs are favored in both the Park Region Con-

ference and section, while West Central Area, Bertha-Hewitt-Verndale/Parkers Prairie and New York Mills will be on their heels to grab

the top spot.

Hart will be assisted by Jason Rogers, Randy Witt, Colton Thorson and Justin Malone.

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218 West Cavour Ave. • Fergus Falls, MN • 218-736-1097 14 | FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018

BATTLE LAKE BOYS’

BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

A

fter several successful seasons under head coach Dan Peterka, the Battle Lake boys’ basketball team will get new guidance as C.J. Peeters takes over as head coach of the Battlers in 2018.

Last season, the Battlers finished the year 17-7 and will be looking to returners Nick Van Erp, Brady Scholten, Eli Carlson, Brennan Amundson and Riley Leabo to improve on that record this year. The group should help coach Peeters get accustomed to Little Eight Conference play and create consistency for the team.

While he is still getting to know the team, Peeters identified Brady Van Erp as a potential up-and-comer that could help the Battlers at the varsity level this year.

With the change in coaches, Peeters’

Brady Scholten/ Guard goal for the season is for his players to work hard, and have fun while doing it. The Battlers will look to improve their speed and basketball IQ in practice and during the season.

The Little Eight Conference and Sec-

tion 6A will both have a plethora of teams the Battlers will have to compete with as Peeters stated all teams vying for the top spot will be tough this year.

Peeters will be assisted by Mike Scholten.

BATTLE LAKE GIRLS’

BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

T

he Battle Lake girls’ basketball team will look to improve on its 9-16 record from last season as it returns most of the team’s starters for the 2018 campaign.

Stacy Christensen is the lone varsity player that will not be returning after graduation, so with several experienced players returning the Battlers will look to kick it into full gear. Top returners for the team will be seniors guard Lexi Newark and for-

Lexi Newark/ Guard ward Allison Marso. The duo, as well as the

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other returners, should be more competitive this year.

With having numerous experienced players, there are still a few things the Battlers will have to work on to compete in a difficult conference and section.

“We need to improve offensively and be able to score more points,” head coach Dave Marso said.

The Battlers will have to tackle a tough Little Eight Conference and Section 6A. Underwood and defending section champion Ada-Borup will be the top teams favored this year.

Coach Marso will be assisted by Brady Speicher.

FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018 | 15

ALL-AREA WINTER 2018

CALENDAR Saturday, Nov. 10 Girls’ Hockey: Detroit Lakes vs. Fergus Falls, 2 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 13 Men’s Basketball: M State @ North Dakota State College of Science, 7:30 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: M State @ North Dakota State College of Science, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 16 Men’s Basketball: Central Lakes College vs. M State, 7:30 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: Central Lakes College vs. M State, 5:30 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Hutchinson, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 17 Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ South St. Paul, 1 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 20 Girls’ Hockey: Sartell/SRR vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 24 Boys’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Detroit Lakes, 3 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 27 Girls’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Albany, 7:15 p.m.

Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Lake Park-Audubon vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby @ Detroit Lakes, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake @ Barnesville, 7:15 p.m.

New York Mills vs. Underwood, 7:30 p.m.

New London-Spicer vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ Perham, 7:30 p.m.

Men’s Basketball: Northland vs. M State, 7:30 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: Northland vs. M State, 5:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: St. Cloud Cathedral vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Willmar, 7:15 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 29 Girls’ Basketball: Bemidji vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Hancock vs. Hillcrest, 7:30 p.m.

Underwood @ Norman County East/Ulen-Hitterdal, 7:30 p.m.

Rothsay @ Park Christian, 7:15 p.m.

Wheaton/Herman-Norcross vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

West Central Area @ Minnewaska Area, 7:15 p.m.

Brandon-Evansville vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Sauk Rapids-Rice, 7:15 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 30 Boys’ Basketball: Breckenridge vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Ada-Borup vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

West Central Area @ Lac qui Parle Valley, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ Norman County East/Ulen-Hitterdal, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley vs.

Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Ada-Borup vs. Pelican Rapids, 6 p.m.

Men’s Basketball: Vermilion vs. M State, 7:30 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: Vermilion vs. M State, 5:30 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Mound Westonka vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 1 Men’s Basketball: Mesabi Range vs. M State, 3 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: Mesabi Range vs. M State, 1 p.m.

Wrestling: Otter Tail Central @ Fosston-Bagley Tournament, 11:30 a.m.

Monday, Dec. 3 Girls’ Basketball: West Central Area vs. Underwood, 7:30 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Lake Park-Audubon, 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 4 Boys’ Basketball: Ashby vs. West Central Area, 7:15 p.m.

Barnesville vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Bertha-Hewitt vs. Underwood, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ Brandon-Evansville, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Detroit Lakes vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Brandon-Evansville vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay @ Parkers Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Menahga vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Brainerd, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Alexandria vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Gymnastics: Morris Area vs. Fergus Falls, 6 p.m.

Wrestling: Otter Tail Central, West Centreal Area vs.

Pelican Rapids, 5 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 6 Boys’ Basketball: Brainerd vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Hillcrest @ Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley, 7:15 p.m.

Henning vs. Underwood, 7:30 p.m.

Pelican Rapids vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

West Central Area vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

New York Mills vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Ashby vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Browerville-Eagle Valley vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Willmar, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: St. Cloud vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Gymnastics: Fergus Falls @ Willmar, 6 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 7 Boys’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Princeton, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Rocori, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay @ Brandon-Evansville, 7:15 p.m.

Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

Men’s Basketball: M State @ Northland, 7:30 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: M State @ Northland, 5:30 p.m.

Wrestling: Fergus Falls, Pelican Rapids, Otter Tail Central @ West Central Area Tournament, 4:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 8 Boys’ Basketball: Waubun vs. Rothsay, 3 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Waubun vs. Rothsay, 1 p.m.

Henning @ Pillager, 4:30 p.m.

Men’s Basketball: M State @ Itasca, 3 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: M State @ Itasca, 1 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: East Grand Forks vs. Fergus Falls, 2 p.m.

Wrestling: Fergus Falls, Pelican Rapids, Otter Tail Central @ West Central Area Tournament, 9:30 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming: Fergus Falls Tournament, 11 a.m.

16 | FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018

Monday, Dec. 10 Girls’ Basketball: Rothsay @ Bertha-Hewitt, 7:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 11 Boys’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Sauk Rapids-Rice, 7:15 p.m.

Hillcrest @ Brandon-Evansville, 7:15 p.m.

Hancock vs. Underwood, 7:30 p.m.

Parkers Prairie vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Sartell, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Parkers Prairie vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Wrestling: Alexandria, Willmar vs. Fergus Falls, 5 p.m.

Pelican Rapids, Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton @ Frazee, 5 p.m.

Otter Tail Central @ Parkers Prairie, 5 p.m.

West Central Area, United North Central @ Osakis, 5 p.m.

Gymnastics: Alexandria, St. Cloud vs. Fergus Falls, 6 p.m.

Nordic Skiing: Fergus Falls @ Detroit Lakes, 2 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 13 Boys’ Basketball: Sebeka vs. Henning, 6 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Brainerd, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake vs. Underwood, 7:15 p.m.

West Central Area @ Hancock, 7:30 p.m.

Sebeka vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls vs. Rocori-River Lakes, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming: Fergus Falls @ Brainerd, 6 p.m.

Gymnastics: Fergus Falls @ Sartell, 6 p.m.

Wrestling: New York Mills vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 14 Boys’ Basketball: Alexandria vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Barnesville vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Hillcrest vs. Underwood, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake @ Parkers Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Barnesville vs. Pelican Rapids, 6 p.m.

West Central Area @ Breckenridge, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Rocori-River Lakes vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Wrestling: Fergus Falls, West Central Area @ Cass Lake-Bena Tournament, 10 a.m.

Saturday, Dec. 15 Boys’ Basketball: Henning @ Wadena-Deer Creek, 6:15 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Pelican Rapids @ Clinton-GracevilleBeardsley, 6:30 p.m.

Men’s Basketball: Mayville State JV vs. M State, 3 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Red Wing vs. Fergus Falls, 2 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Crookston, 12 p.m.

Nordic Skiing: Fergus Falls @ Bemidji, 10 a.m.

Monday, Dec. 17 Boys’ Basketball: Barnesville vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Sauk Rapids-Rice, 7:15 p.m.

Verndale vs. Ashby, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 18 Boys’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ St. Cloud Tech, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Henning vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Hancock vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: St. Cloud Tech vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake @ Brandon-Evansville, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Hawley vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ Wadena-Deer Creek, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Alexandria vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Alexandria, 7:15 p.m.

Wrestling: Fergus Falls, Wahpeton @ Breckenridge, 5 p.m.

Wadena-Deer Creek vs. Otter Tail Central (Henning), 7 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming: Fergus Falls @ Sartell, 6 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 20 Boys’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Moorhead, 7:30 p.m.

Underwood vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Parkers Prairie vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Hawley, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Breckenridge vs. Underwood, 7:30 p.m.

Sebeka vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

Wheaton vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Norman County East/Ulen-Hitterdal vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ St. Cloud Tech/Apollo, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Prairie Centre vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming: Fergus Falls @ Sauk Centre/ Melrose, 6 p.m.

Wrestling: Pelican Rapids @ Lake Park-Audubon, 7:30 p.m.

Otter Tail Central, Barnesville @ Staple-Motley, 5 p.m.

Nordic Skiing: Fergus Falls meet, 1 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 21 Boys’ Basketball: Osakis vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Men’s Basketball: M State @ Central Lakes College (CLC Invite), 8 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: M State @ Central Lakes College (CLC Invite), 6 p.m.

Wrestling: West Central Area, Border West, Morris Area @ Minnewaska, 5 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 22 Men’s Basketball: M State @ TBD (CLC Invite), TBD Women’s Basketball: M State @ Rainy River (CLC Invite), 12 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 27 Boys’ Basketball: Hawley, Heritage Christian Academy, Hill-Murray @ Fergus Falls Tournament, TBD Underwood, West Central Area @ Pelican Rapids

Tournament, TBD Battle Lake @ Wheaton/Herman-Norcross, 5 p.m.

Rothsay @ East Grand Forks (Concordia Invite), 2:30 p.m.

Barnesville vs. Henning (Concordia Invite), 4:15 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Coon Rapids, Hawley, Thief River Falls @ Fergus Falls Tournament, TBD Underwood @ Pelican Rapids Tournament, TBD Rothsay @ TBD (Concordia Invite), TBD Barnesville vs. Henning (Concordia Invite), 6 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Providence Academy vs. Fergus Falls, 7 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Blaine tournament Friday, Dec. 28 Boys’ Basketball: Hawley, Heritage Christian Academy, Hill-Murray @ Fergus Falls Tournament, TBD Underwood, West Central Area @ Pelican Rapids Tournament, TBD Rothsay @ TBD (Concordia Invite), TBD Henning @ TBD (Concordia Invite), TBD Girls’ Basketball: Coon Rapids, Hawley, Thief River Falls @ Fergus Falls Tournament, TBD Battle Lake, Underwood, West Central Area @ Pelican Rapids Tournament, TBD Rothsay @ TBD (Concordia Invite), TBD TBD vs. Henning (Concordia Invite), TBD Boys’ Hockey: West Fargo vs. Fergus Falls, 7 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Blaine tournament Wrestling: West Central Area @ Fargo Shanley Tournament, TBD Saturday, Dec. 29 Boys’ Basketball: Underwood, West Central Area @ Pelican Rapids Tournament, TBD Girls’ Basketball: Battle Lake, Underwood, West Central Area @ Pelican Rapids Tournament, TBD Boys’ Hockey: Detroit Lakes vs. Fergus Falls, 7 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Blaine tournament Wrestling: Fergus Falls @ Benson Tournament, 9 a.m.

West Central Area @ Fargo Shanley Tournament, TBD Nordic Skiing: Fergus Falls @ Brainerd, 10 a.m.

Thursday, Jan. 3 Boys’ Basketball: Hillcrest @ Parkers Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby @ Wheaton/Herman-Norcross, 7:15 p.m.

Brandon-Evansville vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay vs. Underwood, 7:15 p.m.

Park Christian vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

New York Mills vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Alexandria, 7:15 p.m.

Ortonville vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Hancock vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ East Grand Forks, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Willmar vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Wrestling: Pelican Rapids, Wadena-Deer Creek vs.

Fergus Falls, 6 p.m.

West Central Area @ New York Mills, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming: Fergus Falls @ St. Cloud Tech, 6 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 4 Boys’ Basketball: Willmar vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake @ Hancock, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood @ Ortonville, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Hillcrest vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Parkers Prairie vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood @ Ortonville, 6:15 p.m.

Rothsay @ Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ New York Mills, 7:30 p.m.

Men’s Basketball: Mesabi Range vs. M State (Spartan Classic), 8 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: Mesabi Range vs. M State (Spartan Classic), 6 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Warroad, 7:15 p.m.

Wrestling: Fergus Falls, Sartell @ Rocori, 5 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Mahnomen/Waubun Tournament, TBD Otter Tail Central @ Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa Tournament, 2:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 5 Boys’ Basketball: Hillcrest @ Park Christian, 5 p.m.

West Central Area @ Long Prairie-Grey Eagle, 3 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Hillcrest @ Park Christian, 3:30 p.m.

West Central Area @ Long Prairie-Grey Eagle, 2:30 p.m.

Men’s Basketball: Itasca vs. M State (Spartan Classic), 5 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: Itasca vs. M State (Spartan Classic), 3 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Crookston, 1 p.m.

Gymnastics: Fergus Falls @ Park Rapids Area Invitational, TBD Nordic Skiing: Fergus Falls @ Mesabi East, 10 a.m.

Monday, Jan. 7 Boys’ Basketball: Pelican Rapids vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay @ Hancock, 7:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 8 Boys’ Basketball: St. Cloud Apollo vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Hillcrest vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Underwood @ Park Christian, 7:30 p.m.

Verndale vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Willmar, 7:15 p.m.

Hillcrest vs. West Central Area, 6 p.m.

Underwood @ Parkers Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Brandon-Evansville vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Wadena-Deer Creek, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Sartell vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Sartell/SRR, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming: Fergus Falls @ Sauk Rapids-Rice, 6 p.m.

Wrestling: Breckenridge, Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton, Perham vs. Pelican Rapids, 5 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 9 Men’s Basketball: M State @ Minnesota West, 7:30 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: M State @ Minnesota West, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 10 Boys’ Basketball: Battle Lake vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby @ Parkers Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Wheaton/Herman-Norcross vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood @ Brandon-Evansville, 7:15 p.m.

Frazee vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

SEE SCHEDULE PAGE 18

FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018 | 17

SCHEDULE FROM PAGE 17 Girls’ Basketball: Wheaton/Herman-Norcross vs.

Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Frazee vs. Pelican Rapids, 6 p.m.

Ortonville vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ Verndale, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Sauk Rapids-Rice vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Northern Lakes, 7 p.m.

Wrestling: Fergus Falls, Brainerd @ St. Cloud Tech/ Apollo, 5 p.m.

Otter Tail Central @ New York Mills, 7 p.m.

West Central Area, Bertha-Hewitt-Verndale @ Barnesville, 5 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming: Alexandria vs. Fergus Falls, 6 p.m.

Gymnastics: Fergus Falls @ Sauk Rapids-Rice, 6 p.m.

Nordic Skiing: Fergus Falls @ Detroit Lakes, 10:30 a.m.

Friday, Jan. 11 Boys’ Basketball: Park Christian vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

West Central Area @ Wheaton, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ Bertha-Hewitt, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Rothsay vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby vs. Underwood, 7:15 p.m.

Henning vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Breckenridge, 7:30 p.m.

Wrestling: Otter Tail Central @ Bemidji Tournament, 10 a.m.

Saturday, Jan. 12 Boys’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Sioux Falls Showcase, TBD Pelican Rapids vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay @ Lake Park-Audubon, 5:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Sioux Falls Showcase, TBD Pelican Rapids vs. Battle Lake, 6 p.m.

Rothsay @ Lake Park-Audubon, 4 p.m.

Men’s Basketball: Ridgewater College vs. M State, 3 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: Ridgewater College vs. M State, 1 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Hutchinson vs. Fergus Falls, 3 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Detroit Lakes, 2 p.m.

Wrestling: Pelican Rapids @ Parkers Prairie Tournament, TBD Otter Tail Central @ Thief River Falls Tournament, 10 a.m.

Monday, Jan. 14 Girls’ Basketball: Ulen-Hitterdal vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley vs. Underwood, 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 15 Boys’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Sartell, 7:15 p.m.

Hillcrest @ Waubun, 7:15 p.m.

Brandon-Evansville vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Parkers Prairie vs. Underwood, 7:15 p.m.

Breckenridge vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Moorhead, 7:30 p.m.

Hillcrest @ Breckenridge, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby vs. West Central Area, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake @ Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley, 7:15 p.m.

Bertha-Hewitt vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Prairie Centre vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ St. Cloud, 7:15 p.m.

Wrestling: Pelican Rapids, Border West @ Barnesville, 5 p.m.

Nordic Skiing: Fergus Falls @ Alexandria, 2 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 16

Men’s Basketball: M State @ Anoka-Ramsey, 7:30 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: M State @ Anoka-Ramsey, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 17 Boys’ Basketball: Pelican Rapids @ Norman County East/Ulen-Hitterdal, 7:30 p.m.

Menahga vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Hillcrest @ Brandon-Evansville, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Parkers Prairie vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Wrestling: Sauk Rapids-Rice vs. Fergus Falls, 6:15 p.m.

Breckenridge, Wadena-Deer Creek vs. West Central Area, 5 p.m.

Gymnastics: Moorhead vs. Fergus Falls, 6 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 18 Boys’ Basketball: Rocori vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Hillcrest vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Ortonville vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Hawley vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Park Rapids Area vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ Menahga, 7:30 p.m.

Wrestling: Fergus Falls, Pelican Rapids @ Lake ParkAudubon Tournament, 1 p.m.

West Central Area @ Kerkhoven-Murdock-Sunburg Tournament, 4 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 19 Boys’ Basketball: Battle Lake vs. Henning, 7:15 p.m.

Men’s Basketball: M State @ Riverland, 3 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: M State @ Riverland, 1 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Little Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming: Fergus Falls @ Section 5A True Team, TBD Wrestling: Pelican Rapids @ Thief River Falls Tournament, 10 a.m.

Nordic Skiing: Fergus Falls @ Bemidji, 10 a.m.

Monday, Jan. 21 Boys’ Basketball: New York Mills vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Hillcrest vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 22 Boys’ Basketball: Moorhead vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

West Central Area vs. Hillcrest, 7:30 p.m.

Frazee vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Sartell vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake vs. Underwood, 7:15 p.m.

Brandon-Evansville vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Perham vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

Menahga vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ Pillager, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Brainerd-Little Falls vs Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Wrestling: Fergus Falls, Otter Tail Central, Detroit Lakes @ Long Prairie-Grey Eagle, 5 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming: Fergus Falls, Moorhead @ Detroit Lakes, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 23 Men’s Basketball: St. Cloud Technical College vs. M State, 7:30 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: St. Cloud Technical College vs. M State, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 24 Boys’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Brainerd, 7:15 p.m.

Perham vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

West Central Area @ Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Underwood vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Parkers Prairie vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

18 | FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018

Pillager vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Rocori-River Lakes, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Rocori-River Lakes vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Wrestling: Fergus Falls, Thief River Falls @ Lake ParkAudubon in Hawley, 5 p.m.

Otter Tail Central @ Perham, 7 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming: St. Cloud Apollo/Rocori vs. Fergus Falls, 6 p.m.

Nordic Skiing: Fergus Falls @ Little Falls, 10 a.m.

Friday, Jan. 25 Boys’ Basketball: Ashby vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Brandon-Evansville vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay @ Parkers Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Rocori vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Hancock vs. Underwood, 7:30 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton, 7:30 p.m.

West Central Area @ Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Willmar vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Wrestling: West Central Area @ Browerville-Eagle Valley, 4 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 26 Boys’ Basketball: Little Falls vs. Fergus Falls, 6 p.m.

Hillcrest @ Oak Grove, 6 p.m.

Park Rapids Area vs. Pelican Rapids, 3:30 p.m.

Henning @ Sebeka, 6 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Little Falls vs. Fergus Falls, 7:30 p.m.

Hillcrest @ Oak Grove, 7:15 p.m.

Henning @ Sebeka, 7:30 p.m.

Men’s Basketball: Rochester vs. M State, 3 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: Rochester vs. M State, 1 p.m.

Wrestling: Pelican Rapids @ Heart O’Lakes Conference Tournament (Perham), 10 a.m.

Monday, Jan. 28 Girls’ Basketball: West Central Area vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

New York Mills vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 29 Boys’ Basketball: Sauk Rapids-Rice vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Hillcrest vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Brandon-Evansville vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

West Central Area vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Detroit Lakes, 6 p.m.

Brandon-Evansville vs. Underwood, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay @ Waubun, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Thief River Falls, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ Frazee, 6 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Moorhead, 7:15 p.m.

Wrestling: Fergus Falls @ Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton, 6 p.m.

Otter Tail Central, Osakis, Long Prairie-Grey Eagle, Royalton @ Ortonville, 5 p.m.

Pelican Rapids, Bertha-Hewitt @ Staples, 5 p.m.

Frazee vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Nordic Skiing: Central Lakes Conference Championship in Fergus Falls, 12 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 30 Men’s Basketball: M State @ Western Technical College, 7:30 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: M State @ Western Technical College, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 31 Boys’ Basketball: Pelican Rapids @ Barnesville, 8 p.m.

Wadena-Deer Creek vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Brainerd vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Hillcrest @ Parkers Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay vs. Underwood, 7:15 p.m.

Brandon-Evansville vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Barnesville, 6:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Alexandria, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming: Willmar vs. Fergus Falls, 6 p.m.

Wrestling: Otter Tail Central, Breckenridge @ Ortonville, 5 p.m.

Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa, Royalton-Upsala vs. West Central Area, 5 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 1 Boys’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Alexandria, 7:15 p.m.

Hillcrest vs. Underwood, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake @ Parkers Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Wadena-Deer Creek, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Ashby @ Swanville, 7:15 p.m.

Hancock vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Wadena-Deer Creek vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Hockey: Thief River Falls vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Wrestling: Fergus Falls, Pequot Lakes, Sauk Centre/ Melrose @ Roseau, 5 p.m.

Gymnastics: Brainerd vs. Fergus Falls, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 2 Boys’ Basketball: Rothsay vs. Henning, 1 p.m.

Underwood @ Wheaton/Herman-Norcross (University of Minnesota - Morris), TBD West Central Area @ Morris Area (University of Minnesota - Morris), TBD Girls’ Basketball: Crookston vs. Pelican Rapids (Fargo Civic Center), TBD West Central Area @ Morris Area (Univeristy of Minnesota - Morris) TBD Men’s Basketball: Minnesota West vs. M State, 3 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: Minnesota West vs. M State, 1 p.m.

Wrestling: Otter Tail Central, West Central Area @ Park Region Conference Tournament (Wadena), TBD Monday, Feb. 4 Boys’ Basketball: Ortonville vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ St. Cloud Apollo, 7:15 p.m.

Ortonville vs. Hillcrest, 6 p.m.

Rothsay @ Hancock, 7:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 5 Boys’ Basketball: Battle Lake @ Osakis, 7 p.m.

Rothsay @ Park Christian, 7:15 p.m.

Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley vs. Underwood, 7:30 p.m.

Crookston vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

Upsala vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ New York Mills, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Battle Lake vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood @ Brandon-Evansville, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby @ Parkers Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Hawley, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Little Falls vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Wrestling: Staples-Motley, West Central Area vs.

Fergus Falls, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 6 Men’s Basketball: M State @ Ridgewater, 7:30 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: M State @ Ridgewater, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 7 Boys’ Basketball: Hawley vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

West Central Area @ Hancock, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Wheaton/Herman-Norcross vs.

Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby @ Brandon-Evansville, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Parkers Prairie vs. Underwood, 7:15 p.m.

New York Mills vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Wrestling: Pelican Rapids @ Breckenridge, 7:30 p.m.

Otter Tail Central @ Park Region Conference Dual Tournament, 7 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 8 Boys’ Basketball: Detroit Lakes vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Parkers Prairie vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Ortonville vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake @ Brandon-Evansville, 7:15 p.m.

Henning @ Verndale, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Sauk Rapids-Rice vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby @ Lake Park-Audubon, 7:15 p.m.

West Central Area @ Wheaton, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Wadena-Deer Creek, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 9 Boys’ Basketball: Hillcrest @ Dilworth-GlyndonFelton Invitational, TBD Underwood @ Frazee (Fargo Civic Center), TBD Hawley vs. Pelican Rapids (Fargo Civic Center), TBD Men’s Basketball: Anoka-Ramsey vs. M State, 3 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: Anoka-Ramsey vs. M State, 1 p.m.

Boys’ Swimming: Fergus Falls @ Central Lakes Conference Championship in Alexandria, 10 a.m.

Gymnastics: Fergus Falls @ Central Lakes Conference Championship in Sauk Rapids, 9 a.m.

Wrestling: Pelican Rapids, West Central Area @ Morris Area Tournament, 10 a.m.

Monday, Feb. 11 Boys’ Basketball: Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley vs.

Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Hancock vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 12 Boys’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Willmar, 7:15 p.m.

Hillcrest vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Parkers Prairie vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Brandon-Evansville vs. Underwood, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Frazee, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Willmar vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Park Christian vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids vs. Frazee, 6 p.m.

West Central Area @ Brandon-Evansville, 7:30 p.m.

Verndale vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Hockey: Fergus Falls @ Sartell, 7:15 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 13 Men’s Basketball: Riverland vs. M State, 7:30 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: Riverland vs. M State, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 14 Boys’ Basketball: Rothsay @ Brandon-Evansville, 7:15 p.m.

Wheaton vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Bertha-Hewitt vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Alexandria vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Henning vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood vs. Ashby, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake @ Frazee, 7:15 p.m.

Breckenridge vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 15 Boys’ Basketball: Ashby @ Brandon-Evansville, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood @ Parkers Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Breckenridge, 7:30 p.m.

Norman Couty East vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Lake Park-Audubon vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Hillcrest vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Park Christian vs. Underwood, 7:30 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Wheaton, 7:30 p.m.

Norman County East vs. West Central Area, 6 p.m.

Henning @ Bertha-Hewitt, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 16 Boys’ Basketball: Bemidji vs. Fergus Falls, 3 p.m.

Men’s Basketball: M State @ St. Cloud Technical College, 3 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: M State @ St. Cloud Technical College, 1 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 19 Boys’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ St. Cloud Apollo, 7:15 p.m.

Hancock vs. Ashby, 6 p.m.

Underwood @ Norman County East/Ulen-Hitterdal, 7:30 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Mahnomen/Waubun, 7:30 p.m.

West Central Area @ Ortonville, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ Menahga, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: St. Cloud Apollo vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Parkers Prairie vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

Hancock vs. Ashby, TBD Battle Lake @ New York Mills, 7:15 p.m.

Henning vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 20 Men’s Basketball: M State @ Rochester, 7:30 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: M State @ Rochester, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 21 Boys’ Basketball: Wheaton/Herman-Norcross vs.

Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby @ Verndale, 7:30 p.m.

Lake Park-Audubon vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

Brandon-Evansville vs. West Central Area, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Hillcrest @ Ulen-Hitterdal, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby @ Park Christian, 7:15 p.m.

Bertha-Hewitt vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Underwood @ Wheaton/Herman-Norcross, 7:30 p.m.

Henning @ Parkers Prairie, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 22 Boys’ Basketball: Sartell vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay vs. Hillcrest, 7:15 p.m.

Ashby vs. Underwood, 7:15 p.m.

Battle Lake @ Frazee, 7:15 p.m.

Pillager vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Girls’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ St. Cloud Tech, 7:15 p.m.

Rothsay @ New York Mills, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Perham, 7:30 p.m.

West Central Area @ Ortonville, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 23 Men’s Basketball: Western Technical College vs. M State, 3 p.m.

Women’s Basketball: Western Technical College vs. M State, 1 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 25 Boys’ Basketball: Hillcrest @ Ulen-Hitterdal, 7:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 26 Boys’ Basketball: Fergus Falls @ Rocori, 7:15 p.m.

West Central Area vs. Underwood, 7:30 p.m.

Ashby @ Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley, 7:30 p.m.

Ulen-Hitterdal vs. Rothsay, 7:15 p.m.

New York Mills vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Pelican Rapids @ Perham, 7:30 p.m.

Parkers Prairie vs. Henning, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 28 Boys’ Basketball: St. Cloud Tech vs. Fergus Falls, 7:15 p.m.

Hillcrest @ Hancock, 7:15 p.m.

Henning @ Browerville-Eagle Valley, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, March 1 Boys’ Basketball: Bertha-Hewitt vs. Battle Lake, 7:15 p.m.

Lake Park-Audubon vs. Pelican Rapids, 7:30 p.m.

West Central Area @ Parkers Prairie, 7:30 p.m.

FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018 | 19

What impact does vaping have on athletes?

By Brian Pickering

W

hen one thinks of high-level athletes, whether it be professional or college, most people think of someone that puts healthy living first.

This includes eating well-balanced meals with lean proteins, quality carbohydrates, and limited amounts of those things we have been told are bad for us – saturated and trans fats, sugars, alcohol and empty calories. Most people also view athletes as having high-functioning cardiovascular and pulmonary systems from working out in both a general sense, as well as specific exercises and skills that allow them to perform at their best in their chosen sport.

Of course, there are those that don’t fit this

mold. I think of Bartolo Colòn or Babe Ruth in baseball, William “The Refrigerator” Perry in football, John Daly in golf, or even Eric “Butterbean” Esch in boxing. Each of these athletes may look like they do not belong in their sport, but have excelled at the highest levels with each having won major awards and/or championships professionally in their sports. One thing Daly and many baseball players from my youth have in common is the use of tobacco. Despite our notion that most athletes would not smoke, numerous athletes use various forms of tobacco even during their competitions (Daly smoking while golfing and baseball players using different forms of chewing tobacco during play). When we look at the common factor, the stimulant nicotine and its effects on the body appear to be the

20 | FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018

primary reason athletes would use tobacco products. Seeking to find a “healthier” way of getting nicotine, athletes at all levels have started looking to vaping as an alternative to the days of cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco. In this article, I’d like to explore this new trend and what it means for today’s athletes.

Vaping is a term used to include all devices that have a liquid containing cartridge, an atomizer and a battery, including e-cigarettes, vape pens, e-pipes and e-cigars. The atomizer includes a heating device that turns the liquid into vapor allowing the person to inhale it. Depending on the device, there is a button or other way to initiate the vaporizing of the liquid.

Some of these devices look like pens or USB drives making them hard to identify,

especially the JUUL. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), vaping products are the most commonly used tobacco products for youth, and have a higher use rate than adults. One of the biggest draws to vaping for teens and young adults is that they can get the liquid in many flavors, including mints, fruits, and those including THC (the chemical in marijuana that creates the “high”). Other issues leading to use among youth include that there are no restrictions on the purchase of these products in many jurisdictions, and that there is no lighting needed making them easier to handle. Vaping does not leave strong odors that get into clothing and other fabrics such as car seats, so it can be easier to hide from parents and other adults. Finally, many of the products marketed as being “zero-nicotine” actually do have nicotine in them after analysis in the lab. This marketing as a “safe product” can lead to a lifelong addiction.

Nicotine is the second most abused drug in society behind caffeine. The number of athletes that use nicotine is high and continues to increase, especially among athletes in team sports, strength-based sports, and winter sports. The use of tobacco products and nicotine in baseball goes back as far the origins of the game, even baseball cards came as advertising in packs of cigarettes and other tobacco products in the early 1900s. Smoking overtook smokeless tobacco in the 1950s among baseball players, but starting in the 1970s the trend moved back to smokeless tobacco. Today, studies show that over one-third of college baseball and football players as well as major league baseball players use smokeless tobacco. The biggest increase in usage of tobacco, especially

PROVIDED

STILL STUDYING: Although there is still many unknowns, vaping is not recommended for use by athletes and those under 18. smokeless tobacco, is among ice hockey players. Studies show that between one-third and one-fourth of professional hockey players, and nearly 1 in 5 adolescent (teenage) hockey players use smokeless tobacco.

The highest rates of nicotine use is with professional football players where over half of all athletes use tobacco. Even the World Anti-Doping Agency (the group that oversees testing for Olympic athletes) has begun to monitor use of nicotine, but they have not yet placed it on the prohibited list.

Some self-reporting studies of Olympic athletes show a daily nicotine use in one-fourth of athletes. Looking for a way to control their nicotine intake in a way that appears safer to them, many athletes are turning to vaping as an alternative to the previous options.

In order to understand the issue of vaping in athletics, one must understand how nicotine affects the body. Nicotine, which is less than 3 percent of

dried tobacco, originally was an insecticide, but now the main use is as a stimulant. Ironically, the main therapeutic use of nicotine is to treat nicotine dependence when looking to find improved health outcomes from the use of nicotine products such as cigarettes or smokeless tobacco. When asked why they use nicotine-containing products, athletes state eliminating dry mouth, controlling weight, improving reaction time and concentration, and helping relaxation as the benefits of these products.

Physiologically, the absorption of nicotine and dispersion to the body through the bloodstream occurs within seconds. Peak concentrations with smoked tobacco or vaping is 5-8 minutes whereas with smokeless tobacco it occurs between 30-60 minutes after use.

The half-life of nicotine is 1-2 hours, so any effect is gone between 1-3 hours after use. The liver, kidney, spleen, lungs, and brain are those most affected

by nicotine. Nicotine acts on the same neurotransmitters as dopamine that provide good feelings and reward-based behavior, and are important in addiction. In humans, nicotine causes a constriction of arteries, increases heart rate and blood pressure, causes reduced skin temperature, and increases muscular blood flow.

Some studies have shown that nicotine can also increase pain threshold.

Studies on athletic performance show mixed results depending on the study. Most studies agree that peak power, and average power output over a number of repetitions is unchanged or slightly decreased with nicotine use. When looking at endurance ability, there appears to be no change in oxygen intake and usage or in endurance with nicotine trials.

Essentially, looking at published studies with controlled variables, the results show that

SEE VAPING PAGE 28

FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018 | 21

HENNING

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

I

f you scan the Henning girls’ basketball roster, you would notice that the team does not have a senior for the 2018-19 season. Despite not having senior leadership, the team has shown that it can take on the top teams in the Park Region Conference as it finished last year with a 15-12 record. This year, the team will look to add a bit more scare into opponents as they know that these Hornets will also be back next season.

Led by juniors Abi Eckhoff, Autumn Grasswick, Sydney Eckhoff, Katelyn Zillmer, sophomores

Ellie Dague, Megan Weber, Kylie Frederick and Megan Rinicker, the Hornets look to put their experience to the test this year.

“Despite being fairly young with no seniors, we do return quite a bit of varsity experience,” Hornets head coach Mike Hepola said. “We have a real nice mixture of post players and guards within our junior and sophomore classes. Our defense should be pretty solid and our overall team chemistry should be very good as this is a great group of girls that have been playing together for a long time.”

Megan Weber/ Guard

With a stretch of tough games to start the season, Hepola hopes that the team will be able to improve their offensive consistency and ride out the rough patch.

The coach sees Menahga as

being the team to beat in the conference, while Ada-Borup is favored in Section 6A. Hepola will be assisted by Chris Dague (JV) and Dani Beekman (C-team).

HENNING

BOYS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

G

oing 19-9 and capturing the Park Region Conference title, the Henning boys’ basketball team will look to repeat and push deeper into the Section 6A playoffs in 2018-19.

“We have really solid depth and experience,” Hornets head coach Randy Misegades said. “We have the ability to play 10 or 11 guys with varsity experience on any given night. Our overall quickness is an asset for us. Our guys love to play pressure defense and push the pace. We should also be able to put a lot of shooters on the floor.”

Returning this season will be leading scorers senior Sam Fisher and junior Blake Wallevand, as well as senior Adam Lange and junior Isaac Fisher. Although these four will be expected to lead the squad, the depth of the bench shows a lot of maturity.

Seniors Jack Bjorklund and Dylan Trana, and juniors Lee Bjorklund, Luke Bjorklund, Parker Fraki, Blaine Wallevand, Jackson Nyhus, Brandon Trana and Nick Miller will all be expected to contribute for the varsity team this season.

One thing the team will need to improve

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on is rebounding. Misegades points to the lack of size being an issue on getting several second-chance buckets but will focus on boxing out under the rim.

The team looks to be the favorite to repeat in the conference, but Pillager and Menahga will also give the Hornets a test. In the section, Mahnomen/Waubun, Norman County East/Ulen-Hitterdal, Parkers Prairie and Ortonville will be the teams to beat.

Misegades will be assisted by Mark Oscarson (JV), Jason Speer (C-squad) and Ryan Emter (JH).

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22 | FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018

PELICAN RAPIDS

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

T

he Pelican Rapids girls’ basketball team had a strong regular season last year posting a 18-10 record before falling to Ada-Borup in the subsection championship. In 2018, the Vikings will look to build off the success from the prior season as they attempt to push to the top of the Heart O’Lakes and Section 6A. “We are excited about our team’s work ethic and attitude,” Vikings head coach Brian Korf said. “We look to build off of the success of last season and to improve each day.”

The team returns a strong

nucleus of players in Kaylie Isaman, Sarah Thompson, Adriana Torres, Maddie Guler, Greta Tollefson and Anna Stephenson. The group brings experience, speed and size to the court.

Korf hopes that the team can find a few younger players to round out the varsity rotation as depth will be an issue.

The Vikings will also need to improve on their defense and shooting percentage if they look to make a run at the state tournament.

Korf will be assisted by Lee Larsen, Amanda Belz and Doug Bruggeman this season.

Adriana Torres/ Forward

PELICAN RAPIDS

BOYS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

T

he Pelican Rapids boys’ basketball team posted a 16-11 record in the 2017-18 season. This year, the Vikings hope to maintain their competitive edge as they look to replace their starting rotation.

“We like the makeup of this year’s team as we have a bunch of guys hungry and ready to step into varsity roles,” Vikings head

coach John Gullingsrud said. “There may be a few early season hiccups as our players gain experience, but we will be looking for continual improvement as the season progresses as we hope to compete with the top teams in our section by the time playoffs roll around.”

The team will look to senior forward

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Hayden Christenson and sophomore guard McHale Korf to provide enough cushion as the team finds the right varsity lineup.

Seniors Eli Sytsma (forward), Reggie Funk (forward), Damien Britten (guard), juniors Kirby Nelson (forward), Logan Petznick (guard), and sophomores Jayden Rutherford (guard), Logan Fahje (forward) and Liam Sytsma (forward) will all vie for varsity playing time this season.

The team’s versitility and strong outside shooting should keep the Vikings in most games, but they will need to work on defense and rebounding to pull out close contests.

The Vikings head coach sees Perham, Breckenridge and Hawley as the top teams in the Heart O’Lakes Conference, while Mahnomen-Waubun, Henning, Ortonville and Parkers Prairie will be favored in Section 6A. Gullingsrud will be assisted by Adam Johnson and Derrick Nelson this season.

FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018 | 23

PELICAN RAPIDS

WRESTLING Matt Ziebell

By Zach Stich

T

he Pelican Rapids wrestling team saw two members of last year’s squad go to the state tournament. This season, the Vikings hope that their competitive nature can see more move to postseason action.

Returning this season will be junior state qualifier Matt Ziebell, as well as seniors Zane Brosowske, James Furey, junior Max Dykhoff and freshman Sebastian Centeno.

Head coach Harold Holt will look to push a very young, but experienced squad through the riggers of a Heart O’Lakes Conference and Section 6A schedule that will see the Vikings take on tough opponents such as Otter Tail Central and West Central Area/Ashby/Brandon-Evansville.

The Vikings goals will be much like last

year as they will look to fill out their weight classes, but now will focus on getting wins in those spots.

West Central, OTC and Bertha-Hewitt/ Verndale/Parkers Prairie will again be the

teams to beat in the section, while Frazee and Perham are the favorites in the conference.

Holt will be assisted by Aaron Kapenga, Brian Dykhoff and Dylan Evenson.

WEST CENTRAL AREA/ASHBY/BRANDON-EVANSVILLE

WRESTLING

By Zach Stich

L

ast season was the first time in quite a while that the West Central Area/Ashby/Brandon-Evansville wrestling team did not qualify for the Class A state team tournament. Although the team lost several key components from last year’s squad, the Knights will look to 2018-19’s season as a chance to return to the tournament.

“Optimistic but a much different feeling then the last couple of years,” Knights head coach Brandon Gruchow said. “I think the target is off our backs and our wrestlers are going to be able to focus on the little things that will make them better by the end of the season rather than thinking about the end of the season from the get-go.”

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The Knights will return last year’s state participants Anthony Sykora, Kaleb Getz and Wyatt Olson, as well as letterwinners Reubens Swanson, Kade Olson, Bret Duncan, Devin Stone, Jordan Lohse, Alex Butcher and Hunter Hanson. This group should make a big impact this season.

Gruchow pointed out that the team will be less experienced compared to his prior squads, so many spots could see new faces step up and take the spot. Key up-and-comers for the Knights will be Colton Lindquist, Ashton Danner, Shad Swanson, Deklin Goeden,

24 | FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018

Dierk Goeden, Beau Robinson, Mark Adams, Austin Mattson and Connor Nadgwick.

Gruchow sees nearly every team in the section and conference having an opportunity to compete for the title this season with Otter Tail Central near the top.

“We are looking to have a great season, enjoying the camaraderie of the team, working hard, competing hard, and learning some valuable lifelong lessons along the way,” Gruchow said.

Gruchow will be assisted by Troy Lohse, Aaron Ray, John Weeding and Dan Wales.

WEST CENTRAL AREA

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

W

inning over twothirds of its games last season, the West Central Area girls’ basketball team hope they can keep the pendalum swinging upward as they return several key members from last year’s squad in 2018.

Seniors Ella VanKempen, Morgan Woodle, Kaitlyn Sanstead, junior Hailey Bennett, freshmen Lexi Bright and Kaitlyn Hansen give the Knights the needed depth, speed and experience to compete with any team in the Pheasant Conference. The group will look to lead several younger players that will vIe for varsity time.

“As a coach, the more I get into it the less I know until

the action starts happening, but it will be a fun season with the group of girls on our roster,” Knights head coach Eric Schoenbauer said about the season outlook.

Schoenbauer sees juniors Teagan Nelson, Kaylyn Ulrich, sophomores Brynn Fernholz, Brooke Anderson, freshmen Lizzi Rustan and Kennedy Ulrich as players that can contribute at the varsity level this season.

Schoenbauer points to Clinto-Graceville-Beardsley and Wheaton as the Knights top rivals for the conference title, while Ada-Borup is the favorite in the section.

Naomi Moerke, Eli Dotts and Todd Bright will assist Schoenbauer this season.

Morgan Woodle/ Guard

WEST CENTRAL AREA

BOYS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

D

espite graduating eight seniors from last year’s team, the West Central Area boys’ basketball team is optimistic that they can improve on a 15-10 record in the 2018-19 season.

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“Graduating eight seniors opens up a lot of opportunities for our team, but we are confident in the guys that are stepping into those roles this season,” Knights head coach Kraig Hunter said. “We have a great group of guys who have worked extremely hard to develop and be ready to go when they get their varsity opportunities. This group has a lot of potential. They are hard workers who have a passion for the game. They have a good feel for the game with a high basketball IQ and they play good defense.”

Juniors Jack VanKempen and Jacob Bright have the most varisty experience of the returners, while senior Teigen Moritz and sophomore Grant Beuckens also came off the bench for the Knights last season. Senior Gavin Paulson, juniors Blake Koloski and Gage Staples, and sophomore Tate Christenson were also members of the varsity last year.

“One of the differences that this squad showcases is speed and multiple shooters.

For the first time in a few years we will have less bulk, but more length, overall speed, and multiple people who can shoot the ball. This group is also unselfish and very team-oriented,” Hunter said.

Hunter believes the level of competition on the schedule for the Knights will be some of the best over the last few years. The head coach projects Ortonville will be the team to beat in Section 6A as they are ranked in the top 15 in the preseason polls.

With varsity spots open, Hunter will look to junior Louis Bell, sophomores Brady Reeves, Kyle Schill, Xander Bjontes, Braedon Blondeau, and freshman Ryder Staples to fill out the roster.

Hunter will be assisted by Brian Kjesbo, Jon Nelson and Brad Westrom.

FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018 | 25

ASHBY

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

A

lthough last season’s 4-20 record was rough, the Ashby girls’ basketball team expects positive results in 2018 as they return all five starters with another year of varsity experience.

Leading the way for the Arrows will be senior Aanika Anderson, Jose Ness, juniors Courtney Koefod, Amelia Barry and Kalista Aamot.

The group has weathered the storm and should show improvement in a difficult Little Eight Conference.

“With our experienced lineup we will be much improved,” Arrows first-year head coach Alan Niemann said.

With a new coach, the Arrows will look to work on offensive execution and their defensive positioning. If they pick up on their new coach’s schemes early, the team has plenty of experience to compete.

Some key up and comers for the Arrows will be sophomores Madeline Thompson, McKenna Williams, Cailey Schlosser and freshman Cecilia Nelson.

Niemann sees Parkers Prairie, Underwood and Brandon-Evansville as the teams to beat in the Little Eight this year.

Niemann will be assisted by Kip Nelson this season.

Courtney Koefod/ Guard

ASHBY

BOYS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

I

f experience is the key to winning games, the Ashby boys’ basketball team should see their experience pay dividends in the 2018-19 season.

After finishing last year with a 7-17 record, the team returns a plethora of talent. Led by senior captains Christian Norby, Dakota Ecker and Scott Johnson, the Arrows are ready to

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make a deep push into the Section 6A playoffs. Other returners to the squad include junior Noah Johnson, sophomores Ashton Ecker, Derrek Bartz, Robert Anderson, Jacob Rein, Jaden Norby, Miles Hoff, freshmen Hunter Norby and Carson Spangler.

“We believe we can be competitive and look to improve as the season progresses,” Arrows head coach John Holsten said.

Ashby’s experience and leadership will be its strength, while Holsten points to finding quality play off the bench as an area to improve on.

Holsten sees the conference as wide open with every team having an opportunity to challenge for the top spot.

Holsten will be assisted by Peter Nelson and Tanner Langlie this season.

ROTHSAY

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

A

lthough the Rothsay girls’ basketball team posted a 2-23 record the prior season, head coach Anita Heier believes the valuable experienced gained by her players last year will reflect on this year’s record as the Tigers take on tough competition in the Little Eight Conference.

“We played a lot of young kids last year and that will only help with some experienced this year,” Heier said.

Returning seniors Rachel Brenden, Cora Honer, Emily Christ and Jenny Collings, and juniors Jayna Gronewold and Jenna Fabre, the Tigers are excited about the upcoming season.

Although the team has several upperclassmen, the team also has a bevy of young talent that should contribute at the varsity level this season. Sophomore Grace Lider, freshmen Abby Honer, Summer Widahl and Chase Balken, and

Jenna Fabre/ Guard

eighth-graders Madison Tillman and Kenadi Carlsrud should also see varsity time this season.

Heier has set a modest goal for the squad as her Tigers look to be competitive

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“We look to keep improving every day in practice and in games. We have a great group of senior leaders this year and that will be key in getting all our young players up to speed,” Heier said.

The Tigers head coach sees Parkers Prairie, Underwood, Ada-Borup, Pelican Rapids and Wheaton as the teams to compete at the top of Section 6A this year.

Heier will be assisted by Lori Tillman and Ann Anderson this season.

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FALL SPORTS JOURNAL • FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2018 | 27

ROTHSAY

BOYS’ BASKETBALL

By Zach Stich

T

he Rothsay boys’ basketball team lost several leaders from last year’s squad that saw the Tigers tally an 8-18 record. This season, the team will depend on a largely young squad to continue the team’s improvement in both Section 6A and the Little Eight Conference.

The Tigers lost several key players from last season including Wyatt Curtis, Landon Lang and Riley Larson. Head coach Taylor Fuhs will be looking for several players to fill in those roles as both players and leaders on the team.

“We return some younger player with some varsity experience from last year,

but will be pushed into a different role after losing two, three-year starters to graduation,” Fuhs said. “We have a good group of upperclassmen that have played a lot of basketball in our system that will be competing for multiple roles throughout the year.”

Senior Parker Keep will be the only top returner from last year’s squad, while sophomore Colby Larson and freshman Tanner Heier look to be key up-and-comers for Rothsay.

Fuhs identifies the team’s willingness to defend as a unit as their top strength.

“We have a lot of kids that have now been

in the system for a couple years, so they have a better understanding of what our expectations are on the defensive side of the ball” The Tigers will have to replace the scoring ability of players lost in order to exploit its strong defensive play.

According to Fuhs, Parkers Prairie and Hillcrest will be the teams to beat in the Little Eight Conference, while the two mentioned prior and Mahnomen/Waubun, Henning and Ortonville will be the top contenders in Section 6A. Fuhs will be assisted by Chris Heier (JV) and Jamie Nordick (JH) this season.

VAPING FROM PAGE 21

over 7 million deaths attributed to tobacco.

Specifically looking at vaping, there are a few specific ways that it can inhibit athletic participation. Vaping can cause a cough and complaints of shortness of breath, and some studies have shown that long-term use of vaping products can cause heart issues including aortic stiffness. When an athlete needs endurance and cardiovascular function, vaping can shorten breaths and negatively influence athletic performance. One other specific danger of vaping is that controlling the amount of nicotine introduced into the body can be difficult. Different liquids will have varied levels of nicotine and not knowing can create a lethal level of nicotine in the body. Since research on vaping is relatively new, we may not know what dangers long-term vaping use may bring with it.

Just as we learned more about the dangers of cigarettes and secondhand smoke over the years, as these young people that have started using vaping products in recent years begin to age we will have an opportunity to see trends emerge from this group. This could include cancer from the synthetic chemicals that make up these liquids that are vaped. The truth is we simply do not fully know all the dangers that may come from vaping.

Most medical professionals are going to tell athletes to avoid habits that can negatively affect their performance –include

vaping. Although studies show mixed results on whether nicotine impacts athletic performance, we know enough about the delivery methods of nicotine to understand that there are long-term risks associated with smoking and smokeless tobacco. We all know that tobacco is the leading cause of preventable death across the globe every year, and attempts to introduce new tobacco-related products to our youth needs to be taken with caution.

Some of the biggest concerns with vaping are related to reports that those high school students who regularly vape also smoke traditional cigarettes three or more times monthly. Vaping clearly shows signs as a gateway to more traditional tobacco use. Although children may see athletes using tobacco products in or out of competition, the work to eliminate tobacco from sports, such as the effort to rid minor league baseball of smokeless tobacco, must continue. At this time, one cannot say that vaping is safe or that it is a benefit to athletic participation. At best, vaping may be a “safer” alternative to traditional tobacco products. However, at its worst, it may contain chemicals that can do as much damage as smoking and have levels of chemicals that lead to high toxicity and death from misuse.

there is likely no positive or negative effect on athletic performance with nicotine in the system. One’s previous use of nicotine products and tolerance levels can affect these results. I would not be doing my due diligence without talking about the longterm consequences of nicotine/tobacco use. The addictiveness of nicotine can lead one to continue smoking or other tobacco use, and thus experience the ill effects of tobacco-related diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic problems, reproductive issues, and delayed wound healing. Tobacco (because of nicotine addiction) is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide each year with

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