SoMinn FALL SPORTS 2023

FOOTBALL

Owatonna defensive back Owen Beyer (1) celebrates one of his interceptions during the 2022 season. Beyer is one of four captains for the Huskies going into the 2023 season. (file photo/ southernminn.com)

Northfield 17-14 in the Section 1AAAAA semifinals, lost 36-7 to Rochester Mayo in the Section 1AAAAA championship game.

2023

OUTLOOK:

With a new line coach and new lineman, it’ll be interesting to see how quickly the kids can catch on to what we’re trying to accomplish. That’s going to be an x-factor and the other xfactor is how good is Hastings? How good is Chanhassen? How good is Apple Valley? We have tape on them, but we don’t have any common opponents. They’re playing Two Rivers, how good is Two Rivers? They’re playing Simley, well Simley won a state championship, they’re a good 4A school, how good does that mean they

Owatonna Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Jeff Williams

Assistant coaches: Marc Achterkirch, Mark Clauson, Jerry Eggermont, Kyle Melcher, Seth Muir, Matt Skala, Dean Walters, Michael Bengen, Ben Flack, Mike Klein, Andrew McGuire, Cole Orlowski, Tyree Ready, Brad Scharber, Nate Skala, Neil Thompson, Marc Wiese, Adam Woitalla, CW Wolfe, Steve Zappa

ROSTER:

Owen Beyer, WR/DB, 12; Jacob Ginskey, QB/DB, 12; Nolan Ginskey, WR/DB, 11; Nathan Theis, WR/DB, 12; Ethan Armstrong, WR/DB, 12; Oran Dowling, WR/DB, 12; Hunter Theis, QB/DB, 11; Caleb Hullopeter, WR/ DB, 12; Jamie Lisowski, TB/ DB, 11; Blake Fitcher, QB/LB, 11; Luke Webber, WR/DB, 11; Michael Heitkamp, QB/LB, 11; Dane Petersen, QB/DL, 12; Noah Truelson, QB/DB, 12; Terell Miller, WR/DB, 11; Seth Johnson, WR/DB, 11; Logan Langeberg, WR/DB, 11; Mitch

Seykora, FB/OLB,12; Darian Stransky, WR/DB, 11; Rielly Kleeberger, TB/DB, 12; Austin DeAlba, WR/DB, 12; Blake Davison, TB/LB, 11; Mitchel Clark, FB/LB, 11; Logan Garza, FB/OLB, 11; Brennan Sletten, TB/OLB, 12; Bailey Ruch, FB/ DL, 12; Torrin Smith, OL/ LB, 12; Angel Barajas, OL/

DL, 11; Zach Dahnert, OL/DL, 11; Yaasir Munye, OL/DL, 12; Nathaniel Ranslow, OL/LB, 12; Will Wottreng, OL/LB, 12; Reed Kath, OL/DL, 12; Payton

Mahlum, OL/DL, 12; Grant

Lower, OL/DL, 12; Sebastian

Sweningson, OL/DL, 11; Blake

See, OL/DL, 12; Eliutd Marti-

nez, OL/LB, 11; Tucker Vieths, OL/DL, 11; Jack Meneguzzo, OL/DL, 11; Patrick Anderson, OL/DL, 11; Charlie Dulas, OL/ DL, 11; Zach Haarstad, TE/ OLB, 11; Joey Pirkl, TE/OLB, 12; Jack Strom, TE/DL, 12

KEY PLAYERS:

2023 Captains: Jacob Ginskey

(Senior QB), Owen Beyer (Senior WR/DB), Torrin Smith (Senior LB/OL), Mitch Seykora (Senior OLB/FB)

Grant Lower (Senior OL/DL)

is a Division II football commit to Bemidji State University.

Caleb Hullopeter (Senior WR/ DB) returns after leading Owatonna in receptions (23) and receiving yards (343) last season.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Zach Dahnert (Junior OL/DL) looks really good on the line, he’s a big kid and he’s been working hard in the weight room. Blake Fitcher (Junior QB/LB) was a letter winner last year, he’s looked good. Jamie Lisowski was a sophomore last year and has looked good at strong corner so far. Until we go to the scrimmage and see some opposite colored jerseys and some good competition from other schools, it’s hard to know how kids will respond and what they’re going to do.

2022 RECAP:

The Huskies finished the season with a 5-5 overall record, 4-4 in the regular season, 5-2 in section games. Beat

are? Without the common opponents, it’s difficult to judge the difficulty of our schedule. That said, with the number of guys that came back that can run, jump, catch and throw, we’re excited about that.

COMPETITION:

Mankato West, Rochester Mayo, Northfield and New Prague will battle with Owatonna for top spots in the Big Southeast (Red) standings. Northfield and New Prague will be contenders for the Section 1AAAAA title alongside Owatonna.

BY THE NUMBERS:

23 - Seniors

22 - Juniors

Owatonna quarterback Jacob Ginskey (13) rolls out before throwing a completion to receiver Caleb Hullopeter during the 2022 season. (file photo/southernminn. com)

Medford Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Jerome

Johannes, 15th Year

Assistant coaches: Kevin Werk, 23rd Year; Steve Boehning, 7th Year; Nick Trapp 7th year

ROSTER:

Aiden Little, 12; Jesse Ortiz, 12; Hunter Perdue, 12; Evan Schweisthal, 12; Aiden Ahrens, 11; Mason Degrood, 11; Cain

Johannes, 11; Jayden Kennedy, 11; Logan Maas, 11; Talon Savoie, 11; Justin Braulik, 10; Jose Flores, 10; Orion Heintz, 10; Bennett Stinocher, 10; Logan Smith, 10; Connor Wilson, 10; Ried Wildgrube, 10; Sebasthian Aisparo, 9; Chase Balzer, 9; Johnny Cole, 9; Blake Cammock, 9; Will Grayson, 9; Aiden Hunt, 9; Joshua Halvorson, 9; Justin Limon, 9; Ayden Madrid, 9; Wyatt Moorman, 9; Tanner

Milewiski, 9; Landon Seiler, 9; James Wagner, 9

KEY PLAYERS:

Jesse Ortiz – Returning starter at QB and FS, All District player, led the team in rushing and passing, had 2 ints and 45 tackles from the FS position. He does it all for us, kick returner and punt returner as well. He should be a big playmaker for the Tigers.

Hunter Perdue – Three year starter at OG, two year starter at DL, All District Honorable Mention – Another leader of the team, has an incredible motor and is very smart. Will be the anchor on both the offensive and defensive line.

Evan Schweisthal – Returning starter at RB and OLB - Had a breakout year last year at LB, will be looked on to take on a larger role on the defensive side. Is a dynamic player and a good defender.

Logan Maas – Returning WR and SS. Was second on the team for receptions. Will play a big role on offense this season.

Mason Degrood - Returning offensive and defensive linemen - Finished the season with 62 tackles. He is a player with good size and will be an important member of our run game.

Aiden Ahrens - Returning offensive and defensive linemen - hoping to have a break out year on both sides of the ball. Very athletic and will be big for this team

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Orion Heintz – Expected to play a large role on both sides of the ball. Young player but has had a good amount of experience from last season. Jose Flores – will be our main

ball carrier, plays hard and fast, very aggressive

2022 RECAP:

2-7 Record, 2-3 district record, #5 seed in sections

2023 OUTLOOK:

Once again we will be young this year, but will have some very talented football players. We will be looking to be competitive the entire season. We will need some young guys to fill some big shoes. We will have an experienced offensive and defensive line and hope they will lead us. Jesse Ortiz is a game changer if he gets in the open. We hope he will be able to lead us to some wins.

COMPETITION:

We feel we will be competitive in the Division. However, we have some very talented teams that also have been good in the past.

Sub-District Favorites will be St. Clair/Loyola and NRHEG BY THE NUMBERS:

10 - returning letter winners

4 - returning offensive linemen/TE

all 4 returning defensive linemen

In all 6 offensive and 7 defensive returners

WHATTODOINTHEEVENTOFA POWEROUTAGE

Lightningstrikes,highwinds,fallentreebranches–summerstormscanbepowerful,butleaveuspower-less!Restassured, OwatonnaPublicUtilitieswillworknon-stopuntilyourpowerisrestored.Herearesomethingstodointheeventofapoweroutage: REPORTYOUROUTAGE. Forfastestoutagereporting, logintoyourSmartHubaccount (thereisamobileappavailable). Thisfeedstheinformationdirectly intoouroutagemanagementsystem.

Lightningstrikes,highwinds,fallentreebranches–summerstormscanbe OwatonnaPublicUtilitieswillworknon-stopuntilyourpowerisrestored.Here

Ifyoudon’thaveaSmartHubaccount,setoneuptoday byfollowingthelinkonourhomepage.(Youwillneed yourutilitybillingaccountnumber.)

KEEPREFRIGERATORS&FREEZERSCLOSED.

•Arefrigeratorwillkeepfoodcoldforabout4hoursifitis unopened.

•Afullfreezerwillkeepthetemperatureforabout48hours (24hourshalffull)ifitremainsclosed.

PLANAHEAD.

•Havealternateplansforrefrigeratingmedicinesorusing power-dependentmedicaldevices.

•Ifyouneedtouseagenerator,keepitoutdoorsandaway fromwindows.

•Usesurgeprotectors,ordisconnectappliancesand electronicstoavoiddamagefromelectricalsurges.

• Haveportablepowerbankschargedandreadyforcellphones.

Viewourinteractivepoweroutagemapat:

www.owatonnautilities.com/outages

•Prepareanemergencykitwithflashlights/candlesand aweatherradio.

REMEMBER,IFYOUSMELLNATURALGAS ORHAVEANEMERGENCY,CALL911.

Medford’s Jesse Ortiz scrambles out of the pocket during a 2022 game against Blooming Prairie. Ortiz returns to the Tigers as their starting quarterback and safety. (file photo/southernminn.com)

The Medford football team takes a timeout during a 2022 game. (file photo/ southernminn.com)

NRHEG Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Marc Kruger, 6th year

Assistant coaches: Neil Fuchs, 6th year; Jeff Jimenez, 3rd year; Chad Sykes, 2nd year; Dan Bell, 1st year; Brain Bellcourt, 1st year; Aaron Gilliand, 1st year

ROSTER: Chase Johanssen, 9, WR/DB; Aiden Schlaak, 11, WR/DB; Justin Beauvais, 10, WR/DB; Brooks Gilliland, 9, QB/LB; Jaylin Raab, 12, RB/DB; Alden Dobberstein, 11, QB/DB; Gavin Lewiston, 10, QB/DB; Brendan Schmidt, 9, WR/DB; Sam Olson, 12, WR/LB; A.J. Deen, 9, WR/DB; Owen Bartlett, 11,

QB/DB; Lavon Jewison, 9, WR/DB; Ryan Schlaak, 9, RB/ DE; William Tuttle, 12, WR/ DL; Jackson Chrz, 12, WR/ DB; Mason Reeder, 9, WR/ DB; Deshawn Jones, 10, WR/ DB; Harbor Cromwell, 11, W/DL; Seth Staloch, 11, RB/ DB; Aeden Hanna, 11, WR/ DB; Deven Parpart, 10, RB/ LB; Gavin Sletten, 11, TE/ DL; Jack Bartlett, 9, WR/

DB; Reese Routh, 12, W/ LB; Devlin Hudson, 10, TE/ LB; Fynn Baumann, 9, TE/ DE; Carter Flatland, 10, W/ LB; Carter Martens, 11, OL/ DL; Jordan Brouwers, 10, OL/DE; Trevor Selover, 10, OL/DL;Zander Flatness, 12, OL/DL; Jace Ihrke, 11, OL/ DL; Logan Schiell, 11, OL/ LB; Jayden Flemmig, 11, OL/ DL; Colton Conroy, 9, OL/ LB; Khaiden Madson, 9, OL/ DE; Cole Hutchens, 11, OL/ DL; Garett Degen, 12, OL/ DL; Kaleb Hughs, 10, OL/DL; Shane Service, 9, OL/DL; Jase Knudson, 11, TE/DE; Wyatt Larson, 10, TE/DE; George Roesler, 12, TE/DE

KEY PLAYERS:

Alden Dobberstein, Junior QB. Having our QB return will be huge. Alden was top 50 in entire state in passing yards last season and we will look to him a lot. Jaylin Rabb will step into the main RB role and we will look to use his speed when ever we can.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

George Roesler, senior TE/DE who missed all of last year with a torn ACL. He will have a big impact this year.

2022 RECAP:

We went 1-8 last year, edging WEM for 2nd to last place. We lost to Maple River in the 1st round of sections.

It was a tough year for us last season.

2023 OUTLOOK:

We will look to get the program back on track. We have some great kids who have been working their tails off for this season. We are very excited for a lot of new faces for us.

COMPETITION:

St. Clair/Loyola will again be a very good team.

BY THE NUMBERS:

11 - Returning letterwinners

We will be under 45 players, and have many underclassmen playing big roles.

ChooseMiloPetersonFord Co.forserviceandrepair

Ourtechniciansarepartofanetworkofover35,000 factory-trainedFordtechniciansacrossAmericareadyto serviceyourcar,truckorSUV.Theirtrainingwasdevelopedby thesamecompanythatdesigned,engineeredandbuiltyour vehicle.Thismeanswehavetherightparts,toolsandtechs tohelpensureyourserviceisdonecorrectlythefirsttime.

NRHEG quarterback Alden Dobberstein returns to the Panthers after finishing top 50 in the state in passing yards. (file photo/southernminn.com)

The NRHEG football team runs out to the field during a 2022 home game. The Panthers are looking to get back on track in 2023. (file photo/southernminn.com)

ROSTER:

Blooming Prairie Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Chad Gimbel, 26th year

Assistant coaches: Matt Kittelson, 16th year; Justin Kiehne, 6th year; David Lassahn, 4th year; Karl

Steckelberg, 9th year; Erik LaRock, 3rd year; Josh Johnson, 8th year

Dylan Anderson, WR/LB, 12; Bradley Boyd, WR/ DB, 10; Carter Bishop, WR/ DB, 11; Cole Wangen, HB/LB, 11; Gabe Staloch, QB/DB, 9; Gage Mullenbach, HB/LB, 11; Eliot Gimbel, WR/ DB, 9; David Clennon, HB/LB, 9; Brady Kittelson, QB/DB, 11; Jonathan Grant, WR/ DB, 11; Alex Lea, WR/LB, 11; Jacob Pauly, WR/ DB, 11; Kelvin McCarthy, WR/ LB, 9; Gavin Slowinski, WR/ DB, 9; Cale Braaten, WR/ DB, 12; Bo Zwiener, WR/ LB, 11; Cannon Wacek, WR/ DB, 10; Conor Rennie, WR/ DB, 9; Lance Lembke, OL/ LB, 10; Vincent Hernandez, OL/DL, 11; Wyatt Magnuson, OL/DL, 10; Devon Loth, OL/ LB, 10; Jaxon Studer, OL/ LB, 9; Owen Krueger, OL/ DL, 11; Hayden Miller, OL/ DL, 9; Kohan Miller, OL/ DL, 11; Quintin Hynes, OL/ LB, 11; Zach Holtberg, OL/ DL, 9; Jayden Van, OL/DL, 11; Connor Cooke, OL/DL, 9; Brady Johnson, OL/DL, 10; Cooper Cooke, OL/DL, 11; Logan Beadell, OL/DL, 9; Max Thoen, OL/LB, 9; Kingston Lee, WR/ DB, 9; Zach Green, MANAGER, 9

KEY PLAYERS:

Cale Bratten, Sr. WR/S—13 Rec., 122 yards, 3 TD’s

Defense—19 Tackles, 1 INT

Brady Kittelson, Jr., QB/ CB—119 Comp, 222 Att., 1801 yards, 21 TD’s, 7 int’s, rushing

Defense—40 Tackles, 6 TFL, 2 Sacks

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Kohan Miller—Jr—OL/DL

Gage Mullenback—Jr—HB/LB

Brady Johnson—So—OL/DL

Lance Lembke—So—OL/DL

Bradley Boyd—So—WR/DB

Cannon Wacek—So—WR/DB

2022 RECAP:

6-4 in District—3rd Place

Lost in the Section Semi-Finals

2023 OUTLOOK:

76 Att., 489 yards, 5 TD’s

Defense—23 Tackles, 3 INT’s

Cole Wangen, Jr. HB/LB—70

Att, 382 yards, 8 TD’s, 5 rec. 108 yards 1 TD,

Alex Lea, Jr. WR/HB/LB—34

Rec., 528 yards, 3 TD’s,

Rushing: 86 Att, 413 yards, 3

TD’s

Defense—135 Tackles, 31 TFL, 8.5 Sacks, 1 INT

Jacob Pauly, Jr—WR/LB—3 Rec. 64 Yards, 2 TD’s

Defense—17 Tackles, 3 TFL, Dylan Anderson, Sr—WR/LB-5 Rec., 65 yards, 1 TD

Defense—20 Tackles, 1 TFL

Jayden Van, Jr.—OL— Returning Starting Offensive Guard

Owen Krueger, Jr—OL/DL—2

Year Starter Offensive Guard

--Defense—19 Tackles—5 TFL, 1.5 Sacks

Vincent Hernandez, Jr—OL/ DL—Returning Starting Offensive Tackle

--Defense—30 Tackles, 9 TFL, 3 Sacks

Cooper Cooke Jr.—OL/DL— Returning Starting Offensive Center

Defense—28 Tackles, 4 TFL, 1 Sack

Bo Zwiener—Jr.—WR/HB/ LB—7 Rec., 65 yards, 1 TD, Rushing 23 Att, 108 yards, 1 TD

Our goals and expectations never change—we expect to challenge for a district and section championship by continuing to have the process as the goal. The process is working to get better each day, doing the little things— uncommon things, working hard, playing as one, the players lead, learning to compete in practice and carry that over to games, being coachable and willing to change…if we are mindful of these things, do them every day the results will take care of themselves.

We are back in Section 1A, we know this season is going to be a real grind…there are a lot of very good football teams in this section. Nobody in the section can be overlooked.

COMPETITION:

Our goal is to be one of the top teams in the district and section Teams to beat in the District and section will be—Filmore Central, Goodhue, Faribault BA, Rushford, Kenyon Wanamingo

BY THE NUMBERS:

35 - total players

13 - letter winners

2 – Seniors

14—Juniors

6—Sophomores

13—Freshmen

Blooming Prairie quarterback Brady Kittelson throws the ball during a 2022 regular season game. Kittelson returns as the Awesome Blossoms’ starting quarterback. (file photo/southernminn.com)

Blooming Prairie’s Alex Lea (12) stiff arms a defender on a run during the 2022 season. Lea is a returning letter winner for the Blossoms and play a big role for BP in 2023. (file photo/southernminn.com)

Faribault Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Glenn Hansen, first year at FHS. 29th year coaching.

Assistant coaches: Mike Richards (20 years), Tim Ehlers (32 years), Harold Nielsen (six years), Cliff Casteel (27 years), Jauhem Byrd (four years), Kevin Palascios (nine years), Zach Riopelle (nine years), Dean Reiter (23 years), Charlie Lichtenberg (15 years), Kyle Murphy (12 years).

ROSTER:

Grade 12: Ayub Ali, Preston Berger, D’Shaun Davis, Sergio Garcia, Roman Garcia, Aden Hanson, Jathyn Hausen, Sam Kovisto, Cooper Leichtnam, Riley Quinnell, Joseph Ruisi, Erick Sanchez, Oliver

Shoop, Joseph Steinberg, Ben Stoessel, Issac Yetzer.

Grade 11: Elijah Ellendson, Chase Flicek, Cameron Ford, Jayden Hart, Kari Johnson, Jayce Kaderlik, Jairo Mora, Madden Paul, Emmanuel Pineda, Giovanni Pino, Jordan Quinnell, Alex Rendon, Justin Schrot, Braden Schulz, Chase Vargo, Noal Vogelsberg, Barron Wermerskirchen.

Grade 10: Gael Alonzo, Nolan Berge, Gavin Erickson, Jose Garcia, Emmanuel Juantos, Chad Le, Nathan Lockerby, Alejandro Quintana, Jordan Reuvers, Grifin Schema, Owen Schulz, Cameron Shoop, Cooper Taggart, Breuer Wolff.

Grade 9: Wyatt Adamek, David Aguilar-Toj, Tristan Berge, Carson Blumenauer, Yimir Brooks, Nathaniel

WEM Football

Buck, Jace Charles, Esmerlda Cross, Samuel Dietz, Dominic Ericksen, Tayten Fierst, Mavrick Gordon, Evan Gustafson, Blake Judd, Thomas Keeley, Eddie Thomas, Javahn Siemers, Issac Teske, Renon Thomas, Liam VanThomme, Jonathan Westenberg.

KEY PLAYERS & KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

RB/DB D’Shaun Davis, DL/ OL Roman Garcia, LB/RB Joseph Steinberg, RB/LB Isaac Yetzer, QB/DB JJ Schrot, DL/ TE Joey Ruisi, LB/TE Cooper Leichtnam, RB/DB & Braden Schulz.

2022 RECAP:

FHS went 2-7 with a 28-12 section loss to Wilmar in 2022.

2023 OUTLOOK:

We are looking to establish an identity of toughness and resilience in all three phases of the game. Our goal is to be the most disciplined and physical team on the field. Our seniors are doing a great job so far in leading this team and building a foundation based on fundamentals, physicality and togetherness. Our community support has been so exciting, and I am looking forward to seeing our kids compete and make this community proud.

COMPETITION:

Coming off a 2-7 year, we feel like we have a lot to prove. Each week, the teams we play present special and specific challenges that will put our preparation and abilities to the test. There is no such thing as an “off week” on our schedule, so we need to be on our “A game” and compete our

tails off each and every week. Looking at our schedule, the games to me that initially stand out are our games against Northfield (a geographic rival), a physical Kasson-Mantorville team and an experienced

Byron team. In the section, we need to earn our way to go far in the section playoffs, but everyone knows that Hutchinson sets the standard that we someday hope to emulate in 4A.

BY THE NUMBERS:

67 - total players

16 - seniors

Newly-hired Faribault football head coach Glenn Hansen stands outside of the football stadium. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Faribault defenders, from left, Isaac Yetzer, Cooper Leichtnam, Joey Steinberg and Owen Nesburg prepare to stop an extra point in a game in 2022. All but Nesburg return for the Falcons in 2023. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Falcons junior defensive back D’Shaun Davis gets a stop against Northfield in 2022. (File photo/ southernminn.com)

The WEM Football team is looking to bounce back from a 1-8 season going into the 2023 season. The questionnaire for this team was not returned in time for publication. (File photo)

Bethlehem Academy Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Jim Beckmann, 5th year as head coach, 13th

season overall Assistant coaches: Jamie Kotek, Defensive Coordinator,

6th year; Kyle McAvoy, Offensive Coordinator, 4th year; Ross Carlson, Offensive

and Defensive line coach, 4th year; Chandler Rhuemann, Receivers and Running back, 3rd year; Stephen Uphous, Special Teams, 2nd year

ROSTER:

Derrick Sando 12 RB LB; Hudson Dillon 12 WR LB; Andrew Caron 12 WR DB; Oliver Linnemann 12 WR DB; Elliott Viland 12 QB DB; Joseph Kunze 12 OL LB; Willie Potter 12 TE DL; Michael Crone 12 OL DE; Harrison Gibbs 12 OL LB; Jackson Simon 12 OL DL; Matthew Friesen 12 OL DL; Zander Smith 11 WR DB; Noah Casper 11 WR DB; Barak Barner 11 RB LB; Peter Schoolmeesters 11 OL DL; Lucas Caron 10 RB LB; Thomas Kunze 10 QB LB; Samuel Fregoso 10 RB LB; Braxton Weeg 10 OL DL; Franklin Johnson 10 OL DL; Brecken Kaderlick 10 OL DL; Liam King 9 WR DB; Trenton Chemelik 9 WR DB; Carter Brown 9 OL DL; Caden Dokkestuhl 9 WR DB; Charlie Opsal 9 OL DL; Aiden Conrad

9 RB LB; Hayden Dillon 9 WR LB

KEY PLAYERS:

BA returns nine of 11 starters on offense and eight of 11 starters on defense. Key returning players this year are Elliott Viland, quarterback and defensive back; Derrick Sando, running back and linebacker; Oliver Linnemann, wide receiver and cornerback; and Hudson Dillon, receiver and linebacker. On the line, BA returns Michael Crone and Matt Friesen, who are expected to big contributors up front.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

There are several players that started last year, but have made position changes and are expected to make big impacts this year. They are Wilie Potter, tight end and defensive end; Harrison Gibbs, guard and linebacker; and Barak Barner, running back and linebacker. In addition,

there are several young players that have worked hard in the off-season and are expected to contribute: Andrew Caron, Luke Caron and Joseph Kunze.

2022 RECAP:

Bethlehem Academy finished the 2022 regular season 6-2 with an overall record of 8-3 and an appearance in the section 1A finals capping the season as the section runnerup.

2023 OUTLOOK:

The team returns a large number of experienced players from the 2022 team and they are excited to capitalize on the experience gained last season. They want to make a return to the section championship game and this time earn a spot in the state tournament.

COMPETITION:

The MSHSL did some section re-alignments this past season and some familiar foes have returned to Class A after spending the past two years competing at the Class AA level, they are Blooming Prairie and Goodhue. These two quality programs are now on the BA schedule this year, along with perennial powerhouse teams like Fillmore Central (2022 1A section champions and state semi-finalist last year) and Rushford-Peterson (2021 1A section champions and state semi-finalist). BA will again face Kenyon-Wanamingo, a tough rivalry game and an improving Hayfield program as well as a new opponent in Lewiston Altura.

BY THE NUMBERS:

29 - total players

11 - seniors

9 - returning starters

No. 6 Elliott Viland runs with blocking help from No. 17 Willie Potter and No. 2 Derrick Sando. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Oliver Linnemann comes down with a clutch reception for a first down for the Cardinals during an October 2022 game. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Northfield Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Brent Yule: 3rd year

Assistant coaches:

Bob Pagel, 3rd year; Lars Prestemon, 3rd year; Kyle Fearing, 2nd year; T.J. Wiebe, 12th year; John Sand, 4th year; Steve Hill, 7th year; Cory Callahan, 7th year; Aaron Schrot, 1st year; Adam Hoffman, 2nd year; Hans Bengtson, 3rd year; Landon Shroyer, 3rd year; Mike Schulz, 3rd year

ROSTER:

Gavin Novotny, 11; Jacob Geiger, 11; Daniel Worden, 11; Austin Kope, 11; Nick Eschen, 11; Stephen Kallestad, 11; Cameron Mellgren, 11; Seth

Thompson, 10; Ella Pagel, 10; Kamden Kaiser, 11; James Rostron, 12; Jack Pribyl, 11; Kaden Oakland, 10; JT

Graupman, 10; Dylan Morrow, 10; Julian Vazquez, 10; Nolan Feldhake, 11; Kamarion

Gant, 11; Keith Harner, 10; Isaiah Mahal, 10; Talan

Meredith, 10; Owen Murphy, 10; Christian Whiteman, 10; Justus Naumann, 10; Michael Steward, 10; Aaron Reisetter, 12; Carter Simon, 10; Logan Prescott, 10; Joshua Goerdt, 10; Nicholas Johnson, 10; Aidan Wallig, 10: Seth Riley, 11; Henry Webber, 10; Carter Dumonceaux, 11; Eli Hinz, 10; Kyan Rauk, 11; Ben Pownell, 12; Tanner Craig, 11; Braxton Wood, 10; Max Bruneau, 10; Jacob Lorence, 10; Cole Matthews, 10; Victor Hernandez, 11; Luis Rocha, 11;

Kenyon-Wanamingo Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Jake Wieme, 8th year

Assistant coach: Randy Hockinson 30th year

ROSTER: Owen Craig, 11, RB, LB/S; Dillon Bartel, 12, RB, LB; Colton Steberg, 12, WR, CB, Tanner Hedeen, 11, QB, LB/S; Will Van Epps, 12, QB, OLB, Mason Torgeson, 12, WR, OLB; Jack Vierling, 11, WR,

Kennan Fields, 10; Colin Staab, 11; Trenton Zavarelli, 11; Logan Miller, 11; Evan Riley, 10; John Newberg, 12; David Orozco, 10; Westen Wendling, 12; Iah Schweich, 11; Braylon Larish, 12; Charlie Becker, 10; Keegan Resendiz, 10

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Logan Prescott, RB/LB, and Seth Thompson, QB

2022 RECAP:

We were 6-4 overall and lost in the section semifinals.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

“We are looking forward to this year. We have had a lot of kids work hard in the off season. We have a solid mix of returning starters in the skill positions and look forward to other kids stepping up and earning their spot and finding their role on our team.”

COMPETITION:

With all the realignment this year in class 5 we play some new teams that we haven’t played in a long time/or ever. We look forward to playing our tough section opponents and

seeing new competition from other parts of the state.

BY THE NUMBERS:

60 - total players

15 - seniors

10 - returning starters

DB; Trent Foss, 12, RB, S/ LB; Jay Jacobson, 11, RB, LB; Joseph Mills, 11, RB, DE; Reuben Johnson, 12, RB, LB; Knute Ronningen, 11, OL, DL; Zach Mason, 12, OL, DE; Aidan Lindell, 12, OL, DL; Blake Miller, 12, OL, DL; Vincent

Martinez, 11, OL, DL; Soren Kyllo, 12, OL, DL; Charlie Koncur, 11, OL, DL; Thomas Paulson, 11, OL, DL; Wade Allen, 11, OL, DL.

KEY PLAYERS:

Will VanEpps, QB, 3rd year QB; Trent Foss, RB; Dylon Bartel, RB, leading rusher returning; Zach Mason and Soren Kyllo, 3rd year offensive lineman; returning most of the offensive line and backfield from last year.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Tanner Hedeen, RB; Joe Mills, TE

2022 RECAP:

Conference record was 4-4. Lost first game of playoffs to Randolph in a close game to finish 4-5.

2023 OUTLOOK:

Returning many starters on both sides of the football (75%). Hoping the experience will help get off to a good start.

COMPETITION:

Adding teams like Goodhue and Blooming Prairie (good programs in past) will add to an already tough conference. Looking to finish in top half of the conference, hoping to to be above .500.

BY THE NUMBERS:

9 – offensive returning starters

8 - defensive returning starters

22 – letter winners

12 - seniors

Raiders QB Kamden Kaiser scrambles for a large gain against the Huskies in 2022. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Northfield football coach Brent Yule and Jake Geiger at practice. (Tom Nelson/ southernminn.com)

K-W head coach Jake Wieme addresses his team during a game in 2018. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Kenyon-Wanamingo’s No. 3 Owen Craig wraps up a New Richland/HartlandEllendale-Geneva wide receiver during a 2022 game. (File photo/southernminn. com)

St. Peter Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Brian Odland, year 15 at St. Peter Varsity / JV Assistant coaches: Steve Alger, Justin Helget, Kent Bass, Doug Boyer, Carl Bratsch

Grade 9 coaches: Kurt Moelter, Erick Boe

ROSTER:

Nakiye Mercado, Isaac Alger, Peyton Odland, Evan Walter, Cole Filand, Derek Guth, Sam Moelter, Grant Janni, Riley Kamm, Cole Suska, Sam Madden, Tate Olson, Owen Dvorak, Gavin Marquardt, Madison Sanford, Aiden Viola, Brock Knife, Braxon Dale, Kaiden Guida,

Deontre Torres, Ian Wills, Josh Bosacker, Carter Dale, Joseph Connor, Triston Krakow, Brock Guth, Carson Gunderson, John Havemeier, Riley Pugh, Wyatt Davis, Jared Peterson, Henry Timm, Leighton Robb, Ben Frederick, Franklin Wachlarowicz, Jackson Frederick, Kemper Ely, Braedon Dornfeld, Haadi Ahmed, Wyatt Holtz, Jose

Romero, Parker Maloney, Caleb Krueger, Osvaldo Guerra, Jamari Zuniga, Henry Leonard, Colton Willaert, Ayden Weston, Jon Powers, Matthew Otterness, Cole Junso, Oscar Martinez, Cyrus Fremo, Vincent Ortega Nielsen.

KEY PLAYERS:

We have five captains this season which is a reflection on the quantity of the leadership we have.

Sr. Cole Filand RB/ILB

Sr. NaKiye Mercado Slot/ OLB

Sr. Tate Olson QB/OLB

Sr. Leighton Robb G/ILB

Sr. Sam Moelter Slot/DB

2022 RECAP:

The team finished with a 3-7 record.

2023 OUTLOOK:

We have our largest senior class in over 15 years. Many of these seniors and juniors gained extensive varsity experience last year. With another year of maturity and development in the weight

room, the staff as well as the players have high expectations for this season.

COMPETITION: Marshall returns as the favorite for the section while Hutchinson returns as the favorite for the district.

BY THE NUMBERS:

52 - total players 10-12

22 - seniors

13 - juniors

17 - sophomores

Le Sueur-Henderson Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Jim Wagner, 2nd year

Assistant coaches: Collin Everson-2nd year, Nate Wentzloff - 2nd year, Nate Kirchner - 1st year.

KEY PLAYERS:

David King - Center/LB

Connor Schultz - TE

Mitch Boese - OT

Brody Berndt - QB

Joe Hutton - WR/DB

2022 RECAP:

The Giants finished the 2022 season with a 1-7 record.

2023 OUTLOOK:

For the season, the team intends to improve upon the one win season of last year. They have come back in better shape and are ready to compete.

COMPETITION:

Our schedule got tougher as we are playing three new teams who have a history of dominance.

Sam Moelter (left) and Leighton Robb wrap up and take down the Belle Plaine runner. (file photo)

Cole Filand escapes a would be tackler. (file photo)

Giants quarterback Brody Berndt dumps a pass off to Connor Schultz over a defender. (file photo)

Connor Schultz finds open space along the left sideline. (file photo)

newcomers this season and round out the senior class.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Tri-City United Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Matt Collins, 4th year as head coach, 12th year overall

Assistant coaches: Tony Barnack- 8th year at TCU, Phil Campbell 12th year at TCU, Andrew Meier 12th Year at TCU, Jay Frederickson 9th year at TCU, John Rumpza 4th year at TCU, Jacob Gillespie

2nd year at TCU, and Luke Klein 1st year at TCU

KEY PLAYERS:

This year we return some key players off of last year’s team including four-year starter on the line Noah Rynda. Kaden Malecha, Kolton Duff, Max Krautkremer, and Mason Dietz are also returning

seniors who will bolster the line. The receiving core will be led by seniors Luke Holicky, Matthew Squires, Eli Viskocil, and Reggie Vosejpka. Connor Flintrop returns as our leading rusher from a year ago. Connor Flintrop, Kellen O’Keefe, and Gavin Blaschko are returners at linebacker. Ryan Borchardt, Elvis Eckman, Gavyn Miller, and Damien Winterfeldt are

Cleveland Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Erik Hermanson – 29th year coaching football in the district.

Assistant coaches: Kyle Atherton, Brady Hahn, Matt Miller, Larry Walechka

KEY PLAYERS:

Gabe Sullivan – RB/LB

Blake Lyons – QB/DB

Nic Simonette – OL/DL

Kale Kelley – WR/DB

Juniors Rafael Balcazar, Jevin Beulke, Levi Blaschko, Jacob Cihak, Cameron Dobmeier, Preston Ernste, Dylan Fink, Alex Glende, Blake Herman, Caleb Schultze, and Gavin Sherman.

2022 RECAP:

We finished the regular season with a 4-6 record. After beating Worthington 40-13 in the first round of the playoffs, we were defeated by Waseca in the

Section 3AAA semifinals for the second consecutive year.

2023 OUTLOOK:

We don’t bring back as much experience as we had last season, but a lot of our seniors have played valuable minutes at the varsity level. We will be leaning on them as our younger players gain experience. We return some valuable pieces from our team last season and have some exciting younger players. We are hoping to be competitive with every team in our district and section. Fairmont, Waseca, Jordan, and TCU are the favorites in Section 3AAA.

COMMENTS FROM THE COACH:

We have had a nice off-season in our program and a lot of players have improved from a year ago. We have some new teams on the schedule this season which is exciting to see some different opponents. Like every season, our goal is to stay healthy and be playing our best football at the end of the season, and compete for a section championship.

BY THE NUMBERS:

72- Players on the team

21- Returning letter winners

15 - seniors

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Body Bartell – WR/DB

Carson Lyons – WR/DB

Tanner Simonette – TE/LB

Braedon Smith – TE/DE

David Draheim – OL/DL

Mason Kluntz – OL/LB

Caleb Posin – RB/LB

2022 RECAP: 1-7 season record

2023 OUTLOOK:

We still may be the youngest team in the state. We will be starting and featuring freshman on both sides of the ball.

COMPETION:

We have a very difficult schedule with state participants and champions in our district and section. Lester Prairie, Mayer Lutheran,

Norwood Young America and GFW.

BY THE NUMBERS:

9-12: We will only have about 25 players. We will be the youngest and smallest team in our district.

Luke Holicky. (file photo)

Blake Lyons. (Photo courtesy Cleveland Public Schools)

Connor Flintrop turns upfield after catching a pass. (file photo)

Kale Kelley on the run.

Waseca Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Brad Wendland, 18 years at Waseca and 22 years total.

Assistant coaches: Eric Teders - 17 years at Waseca, Connally Turek - Fourth year, Boe Lueken - Fourth year, Jairus Volkmann, Ted Hammond, Ken Andrs, Rick Wulf, Levi Poppe.

Team managers: Ian Hollinger, Kaeden Pierce, Grace Dickerson.

ROSTERS:

Kaeden Johnson (12, RB/DB), Bennett Ludwig (11, RB/DB), Damarius Russell (11, Q/WR/ DB), Laird Keeton, (12, WR/ DB), Ethan Hiller (10, WR/ DB), Carter Ellis (12, WE/ LB), Deron Russell (10, WR/ DB), Keaton Roeker (12, Q/

DB), Jordan Johnston (10, Q/ DB), Rudy Moncada (12, WR/ DB), Caden Danner (11, WR/ DB), Carson Ohnstad (11, WR/ DB), Cameron Karsten (11, WR/DB), Koltun Quillen (11, WR/DB), Max Wirtz (11 RB/ DB), Jose Mextico Perez (12, RB/DB), Cyrett Long (10 Q/ DB), William Mansfield (10, WR/DB), Jacob Root (10, RB/ DB), Lucas Selthun (10, RB/ LB), Liam Biddle (10, WR/ DB), Tauston Rupe (11, RB/

LB), Brody Dufault (9, Q/ DB), Kallen Glynn (9, RB/ LB), Riley Mitchell (10, WR/ DB), John Feely (11, Q/DB), Jacob Thompson (12, OL/TE/ LB), Micah Allen-Haas (11, RB/LB), Wyatt Hager (10, TE/ LB), Ben Hagen (11, OL/DL), Allen Kopetzki (10, OL/LB), Mathew Veroveren (10, OL/ LB), Noah Thompson (12, OL/ LB), Nate Engel Mueller (12, OL/DL), Kaden Garza (10, OL/ DL), Cody Weber (11, OL.DL), Brandyn Jascha (11, OL/DL), Jonathan Gransee (10, OL/ DL), David Hogkins (11, OL/ DL), Andrew Robran (12, OL/ LB), Caleb Wulf (10, OL/DL), Bredlee Reyna (11, OL/DL), Andy Balderas (11, OL/DL), Josh Norman (12, OL/DL), Ethan Stenzel (11, OL/DL), Iven Rodriguez (12, OL/DL),

Johnson, Yale, 9 Rider, Aidan, 9 Schultz, Carson, 9 Simonson, Jeffrey, 9 Walker, Michael, 9 Wandrie, Blayne, 9 Weedman, Gavin, 9 Wheelock, Jason, 9 Winters, Jackson, 10 Bauer, Daulton, 10 Blasing, Zachary, 10 Cummins, Aiden, 10 Gerdts, Chase, 10 Hagen, Josiah, 10 Hood, Dylan, 10 Quast, Caleb, 10 Rolfson, Rylan, 10 Scholl, Rocco, 11 Berndt, Isaiah, 11 Born, Ethan, 11 Cahill, Luke, 11 Davis, Max, 11 Fall, Avery, 11 Johnson, Landon, 11 Miller, Jaxon, 11 Morsching, Lucas, 11 O’Brien, Peyton, 11 Weis, Davien, 12 Carda, Austin, 12 Gartner, Cole, 12 James, Alex, 12 Kronbach, Ryan, 12 McWaters, Dylan, 12 Melchior, Ty, 12 Morsching, Nolan, 12 Quast, Austin, 12 Schlueter, Cole, 12 Thell, Logan.

KEY PLAYERS:

Janesville-WaldorfPemberton Football

COACHES:

Head coach: Ryan Luedtke, 1st year head coach at JWP

Assistant coaches: Howard Van Otterloo, 1st year, Sam Schruin, 2nd year, Brandon Goebel, 1st year

ROSTER: 9 Blasing, Brayden, 9 Dahlberg, Seth, 9 Geariety, Parker, 9 Johnson, Tyson, 9

Nolan Morsching - running back & defensive back. He has put in an outstanding off-season, and could be a key contributor on both sides of the ball.

Ryan Kronbach - wide receiver & defensive back. He went to state in track, and is looking to put up yards at the wide receiver position.

Cole Schlueter - offensive & defensive line. He is your prototype lineman that likes to

Keegan Peterson (11, OL/LB), Nathan Kaiser (10, OL/DL), Shane Engel Mueller (12, OL/ DL), Julius Oviedo (10, OL/ DL), Dylan Hansen (10, OL/ DL), Joseph Mixteco Perez (11, OL/DL), Javonn Rodney (12, OL/DL), Jaden Beck (11, OL/ DL), and Roman Siler (10, RB/ LB).

KEY PLAYERS:

Team Captains: Kaeden Johnson, Carter Ellis, Andrew Robran and Shane Engel Mueller.

2022 RECAP:

2022 Bluejays finished the season with a record of 8-2. Waseca reached the Section 3AAA Championship and fell to Fairmont 35-26.

have fun and work hard at the same time.

KEEP YOUR

EYE ON:

Alex King - Senior. First year out for football who plays wide receiver and defensive back.

Avery Fall - Junior. Linebacker and offensive line. He could play a huge part in our defensive unit and offensive line.

Austin Quast - Senior. Offensive & defensive line. A mainstay of both lines last year, but could have a breakout year this year.

Austin Carda - Senior. Offensive & defensive line. Another athlete who had an outstanding offseason. He put himself in position to be a leader of the offensive line.

2022 RECAP:

2-7. The team learned a lot from last year, and is looking to improve on the record. They are excited to be back.

2023 OUTLOOK:

The team goals are to keep improving every game in route to a winning record. The last time JWP finished with a record at .500 was 2019 at 5-5, and the last time

2023 OUTLOOK:

The kids have done a great job over the summer preparing for the season at team camp and in the weight room. We expect to compete for the section championship.

We hope that balance will be a strength of our team. Offensively, we want all the skilled players to touch the ball while defensively, we are optimistic that we can match up against the strong run and pass teams in our conference.

COMPETITION:

Favorites in the conference include Joran, Fairmont and Marshall as well as Waseca.

they finished with a winning record above .500 was 2016 when they advanced to State Quarterfinals.

COMPETION:

We are in section 2AA. The section is tough from top to bottom. I expect schools like Blue Earth Area and Maple River to be favorites in the section as either team has played in the section championship for the last few years. St. Clair/Loyola has been solid for awhile and finished in the section championship game last year. Finally, you have a long tenured coach at Medford, and new and hungry coaches at Waterville-ElysianMorristown, United South Central, and Triton make the section very solid.

BY THE NUMBERS:

42 - Total Players

13 - Freshman

9 - Sophomores

10 - Juniors

10 - Seniors

15 - returning letter winners

Carter Ellis runs the ball back after picking off the TCU quarterback in the fourth quarter. (file photo)

JWP Bulldogs Football. (file photo)

Damarius Russell. (file photo/southernminn.com)

St. Peter Girls Soccer

COACHES:

Head coach: Bre Landsteiner, 8th Year

Assistant coach: Maddie Kleschult, 2nd Year

JV coach: Maggie Anderson, 1st Year

KEY PLAYERS:

Sam Madden: Sam is a brick wall and a true force in our defensive line. She is not afraid to take on an opponent. She is leader on and off the field. She was named MVP by her teammates last fall.

Baylee Nygard: Baylee is back in net this year. Last fall, her teammates named her Defensive Player of the Year.

Last year, she had 12 shutouts.

This is the most shutouts recorded for any goalie in the St. Peter Girls Soccer program. Both Sam and Baylee were named as All Conference players last fall.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Keira Friedrich MOVED ON:

Adrianna Bixby, Audra Bixby, Grace Dlouhy, Piper Ruble, Natalie Petersen, McKenna Reiten, Ellie Letts, Nibraas Sayid Nour, Paige Meffert, Angelica Guerra.

2022 RECAP:

Last year, we had an overall

record of 13-4-1 with an 11-0-1 record in the Big South Conference. We won the Conference title last fall. We were seeded third in our section. We lost in the section semi-final game to Mankato West.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

After losing 10 seniors, we are looking to rebuild and start new this year. We have the same goals and the same mentality: each practice is a chance to improve and work on the fundamentals, each game is a chance to prove who we are and succeed as a team. Hard work, dedication and effort will make us a competitive team on the field.

COMPETION:

I am not sure how the other teams look in our conference or section this year.

BY THE NUMBERS:

10: seniors graduated last fall

4: All Conference Players last fall: Adrianna Bixby, Grace Dlouhy, Sam and Baylee

2: captains: Sam and Baylee

1: new coach: Maggie Anderson: St. Peter Girls Soccer Player Alumni

Keeper Baylee Nygard challenges a Marshall wing and scoops up the ball, eliminating the attempt. (file photo)

Kiera Friedrich. (file photo)

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

St. Peter Boys Soccer

COACHES:

Head coach: Tanner Nadeau 3rd Year Head Coach 8th Season with the program

Assistant coaches: Melic Thomas 1st year Varsity Assistant 4rd Season with the program, Will Bennett 1st year High School Assistant 3rd Season with the program, Kelson Lund 1st year JV head coach 3rd Season with the program, Zeckeriah Kyoore 1st year C head coach 1st season with the program, and

Karl Schmidtke 1st year High School Assistant 1st season with the program

ROSTER:

Enzo Gazzola 8th CM

Roblae Abdi 10th CDM

Alex Dlouhy 10th CB

Jaego Smuder 9th ST

Mohammed Dekene 11th CB

Mohammed Jimale 11th ST

Anthony Nicolai 12th CDM

Captain

Ryan Domras 12th ST Captain

Mano Osman 12th CM

Luke Gilbertson 12th CDM

Captain

Abdi Daud 12th CB

Levi Gilbertson 10th CM

Marlowe Smith 10th ST

Abduzahid Said 12th CM

Parker Schmidt 12th CB

Kader Sayidnour 11th CM

Ramiro Alcantara Alvarez 10th ST

Drake Smuder 11th CB

Eli Stoll 11th GK Captain

KEY PLAYERS:

Alex Dlouhy #4 will play a major role for us in leading the back line.

Luke Gilbertson #11 will play a major role in communicating with both offense and defense. Connecting the two with his voice and his play.

Abduzahid Said #21 will play a major role in dictating the flow of the game with his creative passing and his offense of presence.

Waseca Boys Soccer

COACHES:

Head coach: Jenaro (JD) Delgado , over 20 years of coaching, holding a “premier”license which is the top license in the US for the United soccer Coaches. Coach boys and girls, and youth during summer soccer.

Assistant coaches: Jesse Delgado, former Bluejay, a well known cross country and track and field runner. Jesse has been coaching for a couple of years. He youth has been mentoring the younger and future bluejays.

David Vasquez, coach Vasques has been coaching for a couple of years. He recently led the U14 boys team to conquer the second place at the Minnesota Youth soccer Association State Tournament.

Mike McQuery, outstanding coach with little over two years of coaching. Mike joined the Soccer Boys Bluejay Team as he is passionate about the game.

ROSTER:

1 Shylo Driessen 7th Grade JV Defense

2 Dominik Mansfield 7th Grade HV Defense

3 Oliver Rugroden 7th Grade JV Midfielder

4 Tomas Vasquez 7th Grade JV CAM (Central Attacker Midfielder)

5 Gabriel Sanchez jr. 7th Grade JV Defender

6 Maahin Lad 7th Grade JV Winger (Will be seeing playing time with the varsity team)

7 Keegan Rodriguez 7th Grade JV Defender

8 Jayden Alexander Lenz 7th Grade JV Defender/Midfielder

9 Sawyer Mairs 8th Grade JV Midfielder

10 Carlo Driessen 8th Grade JV Defender

11 Landon Rutt 8th Grade JV Midfielder

12 Matthew Nelson 8th Grade JV Attacker

13 Logan Konz 8th Grade JV Defender

14 Henry Huttemier 9th Grade Varsity CAM (Central Attacker Midfielder)

15 Carson Harter 9th Grade JV Defender

16 Jacob Harguth 9th Grade JV Defender

17 Nolan McQuery 9th Grade JV CDM

18 Dawson Goodlander 9th Grade JV Goalkeeper

19 Fushen Mei 9th Grade JV Winger (Will be seeing playing time with the varsity team)

20 Gregorio Castillo-Sivestre 9th Grade JV Defender

21 Amin Sharif 10th Grade JV Midfielder

22 Brady Tlougan 10th Grade Varsity Defender

23 Isaah Johnson 11th Grade Varsity Defender

Enzo Gazzola #1 8th grader with a tremendous ceiling, great vision, and hard work will make him a player to watch for years to come.

Jaego Smuder #5 9th grader with great foot work, speed, and passing will make him a heck of player this year and moving forward.

Ryan Domras #9 senior captain with a great deal of skill, determination, and grit Ryan is going to be our guy to score in the air and on the floor. He’s our striker and captain. Can’t wait for him to make his mark on the season

2022 RECAP:

Finished the season with an overall record of 9-10 (7-5 BSC) and reached section 2A Championship where the team

fell to Pine Island/ZumbrotaMazeppa 3-0.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

Trying to fight for a conference title first and foremost. Have a winning record on the road, Pitch at least four shutouts at home, capture the No. 1 Seed in our section, make it back to the section title, make the first ever state birth for our boys program.

We have a younger group then we’ve had in awhile and I’m anxious to see how the see all comes together with a good mix of some returners and a good mix of some new faces.

COMPETION:

We always have Worthington to worry about either here or down there one of the deadliest teams in the state. To beat them this year would be an

incredible accomplishment for our guys. Pine Island is our section rival to have a chance of going to state we have to go through them eventually. New Ulm always gives us a challenging game they have a lot of guys that just work hard no matter what the circumstance is. Marshall another great conference opponent that makes our team have to work hard to get a win off of them.

BY THE NUMBERS:

We had our entire varsity roster letter last year - 22

We have a total of 67 kids and counting out this year

We have 10 seniors out

4 Captains

1 8th grader ready to take on his first varsity campaign Enzo Gazzola #1

25

24 Lucas McQuery 11th Grade Varsity Winger/CAM

Christopher Badillo 11th Grade Varsity Winger/CDM

26 Adrian Ulises Arreguin 11th Grade JV Defender (Will be seeing playing time with the varsity team)

27 Ezra Skains 11th Grade JV Goalkeeper

Eli Stoll makes a sliding save on the way to earning is first shutout in goal. (file photo)

Logan Heyer (3). (file photo)

Luke Gilbertson uses a header to keep a ball under control on the defensive end. (file photo)

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

28 Mason Jes 12th Grade Varsity attacker (Team Captain)

29 Lucas Vasquez 12th Grade Varsity Defender (Team Captain)

30 Logan Heyer 12th Grade Varsity Defender (Team Captain)

31 Dominic Grunzke 12th Grade Varsity Central Defender

32 Noah Dahle 12th Grade Varsity Defender

33 Eduardo Gallegos Jr 12th Grade Varsity Goalkeeper (Team Captain)

KEY PLAYERS:

Logan Heyer Defender, senior, is known for his strength, leadership and aerial ability. His strength when blocking is extraordinary. The way that he handles on the field when defending is great. He has a superb speed and kick.

Eduardo Gallegos Jr. Goalkeeper, Senior, Regarded as a highly promising player in his youth, he has since established himself as one of the best goalkeepers around our area. HIs field vision is impressive and his blocking ability superb.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Henry Huttemier is an attacking midfielder that has been at the core of our team’s dominance. Huttemier quickly took control of the Bluejays team. He would often show players much older than him different tactical advantages that they were missing. Fastforward to today, whenever you turn on a Waseca Bluejays game Henry Huttemier is bossing the game. The way he sees the game allows him to make off-ball runs, opening channels for his teammate. Work in pockets between opposing team’s defenders, pulling them out of position, and know every run his teammates make, even if he

isn’t looking in that direction. Often, we need to tell him to manage his “fuel-tank” as it may get empty too quickly.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We are rebuilding our HS soccer team, this year we only have 6 seniors, 5 juniors, and 2 sophomores. We will need to pull some younger JV players to assist us with games. We will rebuilding and prepare the younger kids to be ready for the upcoming years. We have a big gap in players’ ages. Our team is very young. We will definitely be working together as a team to minimize the challenge.

COMPETION:

Worthington has been the powerhouse for many years, followed by Marshall and Faribault. We are hoping to challenge every team around our area. We will focus our strength to play the ball consistently and keep it from the opponent. Our team consists of many younger

players,

2 Sophomores

7 Freshmen

Waseca’s Dominic Grunzke (4) moves the ball up the pitch during the U18 team’s game against Albert Lea on Thursday. (File photo)

but we will take every game as a learning opportunity and will be ready soon.

KEY PLAYERS:

Waseca Girls Soccer

COACHES:

Head coach: Philip Bulfer

Assistant coaches: Jay Bulfer, Madeline Bulfer

ROSTER:

Mallory Bruhn 12th Defense

Ella Krautkremer 12th Midfield

Evelyn Nydegger 12th Forward

Addison Wieseler 12th Midfield

Sophie Chawra 11th Defense

Lopez Gaby 11th Midfield

Lucia Mansfield 11th Defense

Ashley Sanchez 11th Defense

Ava Bruhn 10th Midfield

Ella Bulfer 10th Goalie

Rylee Schaffer 10th Midfield

Emily LeMieux 11th Defense

Jennifer Hernandez-Verde 11th Midfield

Peyton Kalbow 11th Midfield

Camila Marquez 11th Midfield

Bianca Hernandez 10th

Defense

Jacey Jensen 9th Goalie/ Defense

Angelica Lopez 9th Midfield

Jesalyn Wieiss 9th Midfield

Sophia Larson 8thDefense

Khloe Nelson 8th Midfield

Reese Rodriguez 8th Forward

Delilah Veroeven 7th Defense

Sheila Driessen 7th Midfield

All of our juniors from last year but one will be returning as starting seniors. They have all been starting varsity players for three years now. Evelyn Nydegger will be I believe one of our standouts and a difference maker within the group starting up top for the first time. Addison Wieseler will be a key component to controlling our defensive Midfield. Mallory Bruhn will be commanding our defense. While returning varsity player Ella Krautkremer will be exciting to watch as she will be playing as a Midfield defender with a dangerous right shot from the back. 11th grader

Gabby Lopez will be returning from a extremely exciting summer season working with a soccer club out of the Twin Cities. She will be looking for a repeat from last year as she was the highest scoring player within our conference. 10th grader Ella Bulfer will be returning in high form at goal fresh off a national tournament showing and ready to prove that she is the one to beat.

2022 RECAP:

We had a successful 2022 season as we stood number two in the conference and I believe that we are going to take a solid run at conference title this year. I truly believe that these girls are up for the

challenge and are eager to prove that we can hold that title again

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

The 2023 season is of course going to be a challenge. I think that all of the teams in our conference have been making improvements every year.

COMPETION:

Our conference has always been controlled by a few teams but I think we’ll see much more even competition this year. I am very excited to see that improvement in play out the big south conference.

round of the Section 2A playoffs to Fairmont.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We want to open the season with a strong showing at home versus Fairmont on August 26th. There aren’t any unwinnable games on our schedule, but neither are there pushovers.

COMPETION:

Tri-City United Boys Soccer

COACHES:

Head coach: Darren Iverson, second year

Assistant coaches: David Dominguez, fourth year

RETURNING LETTER WINNERS:

Edward Devine, 12, Midfield

Aidan Miland, 12, Defense/

Midfield

Connor Skluzacek, 12, Midfield

Luke Skluzacek, 12, Goalie

Rafael Balcazar, 11, Midfield/ Wing

Juan Lopez, 11, Defense

Ian Merlo, 11, Defense

Alan Ortiz-Garcia, 11, Midfield

Dylan Swancutt, 11, Goalie/ Midfield

Damian Torres, 11, Midfield/ Wing

Isaac Garza, 10, Defense/ Midfield

Alex Mendez, 9, Midfield

Angel Ruiz Gomez, 8, Striker

We have several additional letterwinners who have indicated they will play but had not registered as of completing this report.

KEY PLAYERS:

Rafael Balcazar and Angel Ruiz Gomez are dynamic offensive playmakers that tied for the team lead with 16 goals each last season. Juan Lopez and Ian Merlo played huge minutes as part of a physical, cohesive defensive four. Luke Skluzacek is a multi-year starter in goal

and leads a deep and talented group of keepers. Connor Skluzacek and Alan OrtizGarcia both lost much of the season to injury but flashed their game-changing skill when available.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

We are still determining our Varsity team, but we have 2530 players that are capable of playing significant minutes.

2022 RECAP:

Finished regular season 10-4. 52 Goals scored and 31 Goals allowed. Lost 1-3 in the first

Pine Island has won the past two section championships and should be a top-tier team in the state again despite some losses to graduation. Future Big South Conference foes St. Peter and Fairmont will be gunning for high seeds as well. Albert Lea is coming down from class AA and will be battle-tested by a difficult schedule.

BY THE NUMBERS:

4 – Captains – Rafael Balcazar, Alan Ortiz-Garcia, Connor Skluzacek and Luke Skluzacek

2 – First-time opponents in 2023 – Plainview-ElginMillville and Stewartville

101 – Change in goal differential from 2021 to 2022 seasons, from -80 to +21

Evelyn Nydegger. (file photo)

Angel Ruiz Gomez. (file photo)

Addison Wieseler (File Photo/southernminn.com)

TCU keeper Luke Skluzacek. (file photo)

COACHES:

Tri-City United Girls Soccer

Head coach: Kyle Krueger, 1st Year

Assistant coach: Erik Wipf, 5th Year

ROSTER:

Aubrie Barnett: 9, Mid/Attack

Kinsley Mach: 9, Mid/ Attack

LillyAnn Teal: 9, Def/Attack

Raena Weiss: 9, Mid/Attack

Shaylan Dunphy: 10, GK/ Defense

Guadalupe Lopez: 10, Mid/ Attack

Melody Morales: 10, Defense/ Mid

Henkel Julika: 11, Mid/Attack

Ava Dresow: 12, Defense

Halee Gargett: 12, Midfielder

Alejandra Montes De Oca

Correa: 12, Defense

Natalie Phelps: 12, Defense

Nora Titus: 12, Def/Attack

Calley Stephens: 12, GK/Att

Ruby Luna: 12, Mid/Attack

KEY PLAYERS:

Guadalupe (Lupita) Lopez

Ava Dresow

Calley Stephens

Nora Titus

KEY PLAYERS:

Kinsley Mach

Kristel Lopez

Ruby Luna

Owatonna Boys Soccer

COACHES:

Head coach: Bob Waypa, 26th year

Assistant coaches: Patrick Grubish, 2nd year (Varsity Assistant); John Thompson, 13th year (JV); Ryan Guenther, 2nd year (B squad); Dan Nolte, 3rd year (9A)

ROSTER:

Carson Van Gelder, 9; Landon Sturges, 10; Leroy DeLaRosa,

12; Jose Rosas, 12; Nolan Peterson, 11; Joe Zeman, 11; Kellen Katzung, 11; Garrett Karsten, 12; Logan Torres, 11; Ashton Kraus, 12; Decan Schaner, 12; Lukas Vargas, 11; Jayden Omani, 12; Jackson Mottl, 11; Jacob Gillespie, 11; Gavin Bermeister, 10; Nolan Kubat, 12; Andrew Beaver, 10; Zachary Knott, 11; Ayub Ali, 11; Drew Wilker, 12

KEY PLAYERS: Captains: Ashton Kraus

(sr), Garret Karsten (sr) and Jackson Mottl (jr)

Returning 1st Team All Conference from 2022: Ashton Kraus. He was also on the 2022 All-Section Team. We have to replace 12 seniors we list. Most were key players to last years 14-4-1 team. Our three captains will be key helping start the season off on the right foot.

Halee Gargett

Julika Henkel

2022 RECAP:

We play in an independent conference and our record was 2-3 within the conference. We tied for second in terms of points with six. Our overall record for the season was 3-9.

2023 SEASON

OUTLOOK:

Our goal for this season is to continue to develop and grow as a program. We want to solidify our defense and be a

team that is difficult to score against. We have some very skilled offensive players that can put the ball in the back of the net when given the chance, so I expect our scoring to increase. Because of these two things, we are hoping to be above the .500 mark and playing competitive games in the postseason.

COMPETION:

In the conference, we expect to be near the top again this year. In terms of the section competition, I’m not very familiar with the section; however, looking at last year’s results, Rochester and Pine Island/Zumbrota-Mazeppa may look to be the favorites again.

BY THE NUMBERS:

11 - 7th/8th grade players that continue to help build our program for the future and will be key parts of our Varsity in the coming years.

7 - seniors

1 - Junior

2022 RECAP:

Finished overall 14-4-1 2nd in Big 9

Lost in section finals 2-1 in O.T.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

There are a lot of unknowns going into this season. A lot of established talent that graduated last year. We have a very tough schedule (nonconference games vs Lakeville South, Lakeville North, Farmington, St. Paul Central and Cretin Durham Hall). Our goal is simple: “Be better today than yesterday. Be better tomorrow than today.“ One day at a time. Excited to watch this group grow.

COMPETION:

In the conference, we expect to be near the top again this year. In terms of the section competition, I’m not very familiar with the section; however, looking at last year’s results, Rochester and Pine Island/Zumbrota-Mazeppa may look to be the favorites again.

BY THE NUMBERS:

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Watch sophomore Gavin Burmeister. He follows in his older brothers (Nolan and Blake) who were great players for us. Could Gavin be even better??

Also watch freshman keeper Carson Van Gelder. Last freshman to be a starter was

Carter McCauley over 10 years ago. Carter still holds almost every keeper record at OHS. Could Carson challenge these records over the next four years??

Finally watch Ayub Ali (junior). He is a fun player to coach. Works very hard and always has a smile on his face. I can’t wait to see how he grows and impacts the game.

11 - 7th/8th grade players that continue to help build our program for the future and will be key parts of our Varsity in the coming years.

7 - seniors

1 - Junior

Lupita Lopez. (file photo)

Owatonna midfielder Garrett Karsten (8) tracks the ball down during a 2022 game against Faribault. Karsten will serve as one of three captains for the Huskies during the 2023 season (file photo/southernminn.com)

Nora Titus. (file photo)

Owatonna’s Ashton Kraus celebrates a game-winning goal with then-senior Benjamin Bangs (20) during the 2022 season. Kraus will be one of three captains for the Huskies. (file photo/southernminn.com)

Owatonna Girls Soccer

COACHES:

Head coach: Nate Gendron, 6th year

Assistant coaches: Tony Cloud, 6th year; Jeremy Wood, 6th year

ROSTER:

Alia Kubicek, M, 11; Anna Mollenhauer, GK, 11; Averi Vetsch, F, 11; Kelli Waypa, M, 11; Molly Achterkirch, D, 12; Samantha Hartman, D, 12; Nevaeh Hofbauer, D,

12; Morgan Martinez, M, 12; Aubrianna Werk, D, 12; Attley

Klemmensen, F, 10; Sophia Schlauderaff, M, 10; Addison

Ahrens, D, 11; Kennedy

Katzung, M, 11; Isabella Muir, D, 11; Kennedy Schammel, F, 11; Abigail Shornock, M, 11; Megan Rysavy, M, 12; Paige Pick, GK, 10

KEY PLAYERS:

Captains: Kennedy Schammel, Molly Achterkirch, Nevaeh Hofbauer

Kennedy is our leading scorer. She is super competitive and will fun to watch this season.

I expect she will be dominant in the Big9 and Section for scoring opportunities. She recently made the Minnesota Thunder Academy and has colleges speaking with her.

Molly is the leader of our defense. She sees everything in the back and ties up loose ends where we need.

Anna Mollenhauer will be our goalie. Super athletic

and can make some brilliant saves. Highly communicative and runs everything from her perspective.

Kelli Waypa and Abby Shornock will be running our midfield unit. Both have superb call control and can distribute like crazy. Every play will go through their feet.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Kennedy Schammel

Averi Vetsch

Navaeh Hofbauer

Kelli Waypa

2022 RECAP:

Overall 10-8-0 and Conference was 8-3-0

We finished 3rd in the conference behind East and West and lost in the section semi-final match to Lakeville North.

We were super competitive and every game was decided by 1 or 2 goals. We graduated 12 seniors and a few players who was with the varsity team since freshman year. We found our groove after the 3rd game and had high hopes. Ava Stanchina finished as a 1st team All State player.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

This year, we want to focus on winning the Big9 conference. We know it’s going to be tough going to state, so we want to start small and work from there. Our players this year are highly intelligent and have high soccer IQs. I’m excited to see what we can put together. We may have to alter our formation a bit from last year but nothing we are worried about.

COMPETION:

East, West, and Century are always top competitors in our conference. It is always those 3 and Owatonna in the top 4. East has really set the tone as they went to state last year and went 21-1-0 and only losing their first game in the State semi-final round. In section, North and South are always dominant and difficult to get past.

BY THE NUMBERS:

Last year we graduated 11 seniors from the varsity team. This year our program numbers are really low and only had 61 players tryout for 4 different teams. Our squads will be small but with a lot of movement between teams. We will have 8 returning letter winners and 10 returning players who made our final section roster last year. As of now, we are still trying to fill in the other 8 spots for a final varsity roster at 18.

Faribault Boys Soccer

COACHES:

Head coach: Brendan Cox, 10th year

Assistant coaches: Bill Favro, fifth year; Abdimutalib Abdullahi, second year; Abdiwahab Abdullahi, first year

ROSTER: Leighton Anderson 10 Def; Cullen Cox 10 Fwd; Jee Favro 10 Mid; Abdirahman

Hussein 10 Mid; Owen Voit 11 Mid; Rashid Ibrahim 11 Def; Michael Dorantes 12 Def; Caden Hart 12 Mid; Aaron Huerta 12 Fwd; Carter Johnson 12 Def; Duncan McDowell 12 Mid; Shuaib Muhumed 12 Mid; Lucas Nelson 12 Def; Warsame Shire 12 Fwd; Christian Trujillo 12 Goalie; Josh Arroyo 12 Mid; Jesh Angeles 12 Fwd

KEY PLAYERS:

Christian Trujillo, Jesh Angeles, Caden Hart, Aaron Huerta, Josh Arroyo

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Warsame Shire, Leighton Anderson, Cullen Cox and Jee Favro

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

The outlook is bright, despite losing our leading scorer and a captain Cristian Escobar to an ACL injury. We have a talented squad and are hoping to be in the hunt for the conference championship, as well as a section championship and a run in the state tournament.

COMPETION:

We should match up well in the conference and section. I don’t know if there is ever a clear favorite in the Big 9; that’s what makes it such a fun conference to be a part of.

BY THE NUMBERS:

17 - total players

11 - letter winners

10 - seniors

Owatonna senior Molly Achterkirch returns as one of the Huskies’ top defenders and will serve as one of three captains this fall. (file photo/southernminn.com)

Faribault junior goalkeeper Christian Trujillo slide tackles the ball away from the goal during the Falcons’ 3-2 game against Rochester Mayo in 2022. (File photo/ southernminn.com)

Kennedy Schammel returns to the Huskies as one of their top scorers last season and will serve as one of three captains this fall. (file photo/southernminn.com)

Josh Angeles, left, turns the ball in front of the Wingers’ net during a 2022 Faribault win. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Faribault Girls Soccer

COACHES:

Head coach: Britta PetersonLinde, second year

Assistant coaches: Erika Frear, fifth year; Abby Stroup, first year

ROSTER:

Varsity: Skylar Bartram, Ismarai Arriaza, Ariana Garcia, Sivana Schwartz, Claire Anderson, Maddie Kramer, Eve Drewitz, Emma Eroglu, Tavie Korbel, Olivia Streefland,

Fiona Voit, Hannah Wheeler, Meredith Umbreit, Bella Hammer, Kaylie Bertram, Annika Voit, Yamileth Rodriguez, Macy Bauer, Sabrina Quintana, Morgan Sterling.

JV: Jocelyn Lozano, Esbeida Nunez, Erin McDowell, Aileen Reyes, Leticia Romero, Chrystal Trujillo, Belen Vazquez, Stella Carlin, Aubrey Paul, Annika Gliem, Fatima Abdulakadir, Salma Ali.

KEY PLAYERS:

Skylar Bertram, Ariana Garcia, Maddie Kramer, Claire Anderson, Eve Drewitz and Emma Eroglu

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Sivana Schwartz

2022 RECAP:

We were last in our conference and section. We are the ultimate underdogs looking for some chances to turn people’s heads and show them how much we can improve from year to year.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

This season we hope to keep improving- every game we play

is a learning opportunity and a chance to get better, to find more and more success and create some good chances each game.

COMPETION:

As I said, we are underdogs. No one expects much from us, but we plan to bring our best every single match, and we may see some surprising results.

BY THE NUMBERS:

28 - total players

7 - returning starters

5 - seniors

Faribault girls soccer’s Ariana Garcia and Maddie Kramer fight for the ball during a game in 2022. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Falcons midfielder Skylar Bertram pushes the ball up field during a 2022 game. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Northfield Boys Soccer

COACHES:

Head coach: Cale Steinhoff, 3rd year

Assistant coaches: Doug Seymour, 10th year; Nicky Vazquez, third year; Jair Ascencio Puga, second year

ROSTER: Geo Alfaro 12 Midfielder; Hector Contreras Alvarado

Northfield Girls Soccer

COACHES:

Head coach: Blake Kane, 2nd year

Assistant coaches: Elle Kingsley, fourth year; Cristian Fuentes Rivera, fourth year; Halea Picha, first year; Brent Kivell, first year; Jordie Detlie, second year

ROSTER:

Alaia Douah F 9; Linnea Wilhelm GK 9; Camila Gaspar Benitez M 10; Devin Morrell M/F 11; Kate Hubers F 11; Lydia Rosenhamer D 11; Maria Arroyo M 11; Maggie Cohrs D 11; Olivia Rasmussen M 11; Rhianna Gonzalez Sandoval F 11; Shania Gjerdingen M/F 11; Alannah Clarey D 12; Amelia Rosenhamer D 12; Annabelle Rezac D 12; Anni Quaas M 12; Ashley Brang M/F 12; Gracie Freyberg GK 12

KEY PLAYERS:

On the defensive side, we return our starting GK from last year, Gracie Freyberg, as well as backs Alannah Clarey and Amelia Rosenhamer. On the attacking end, Olivia Rasmussen and Anni Quaas at midfield and Kate Hubers at forward.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

We will have several new juniors who may look to crack a starting spot for the first time, including Devin Morrell, Shania Gjerdingen, and Rhianna Gonzalez Sandoval. Junior Kate Hubers will also play a key role in our attack after spending much of last year on defense. We welcome a transfer student in senior Ashley Brang and hope to fit

her in immediately. We also had two exciting freshmen make the varsity roster in Alaia Douah and Linnea Wilhelm.

2022 RECAP:

2022 was a year of transition for our program. We had strong senior leadership but faced extremely tough competition in both our conference and section. We finished 3-13 overall, with all three of those wins in the conference. We lost our first game of the section tournament to Lakeville North.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We enter the 2023 season very optimistically. Not only do we return a huge portion of our starting lineup from last year, but we also saw a realignment

12 Striker; Haven Boysen 12 Defender; Zach Breiland

12 Goalkeeper; Eric Cruz 12 Defender; Carlos Cortave Deleon 11 Midfielder; Garrison Giza 12 Defender; Gabe Heinritz 12 Defender; Johan Hernandez 12 Defender; Stephen Kallestad 12 Striker; Jens Kasten 12 Striker; Landon Lipins 12 Forward; Reuben Menk 12 Midfielder; Tait Narveson 11 Midfielder; Vinh Ngo 12 Defender; Elliot Pontow 12 Defender; Malcolm Poole 12 Midfielder; Manny Ramirez 12 Forward; Timon

Reichert 12 Midfielder; Carter Sommer 12 Defender; Sam Swedin 12 Defender

KEY PLAYERS:

We return 15 players from last year’s varsity team. I expect all of them to contribute throughout the season.

KEEP YOUR

EYE ON: Timon Reichert (a Rotary exchange student from Germany) and Carlos Cortave

Deleon will bolster the midfield.

2022 RECAP:

6-4-1 conference record (fifth place), lost to Owatonna in the first round of sections 1-0. We’ll look to build on the momentum we generated at the end of last season.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

This team will start the year with a lot of varsity experience. Our goal is to contend for the top spot in the conference and a run in the section tournament.

COMPETION:

Rochester Mayo won the conference last year. Mayo, Owatonna, John Marshall, and Winona all fielded strong squads. It’s a competitive conference; many teams will look to contend.

BY THE NUMBERS:

19 - seniors

13 - letter winners

2 - juniors

of our section placement, from 1AAA to 1AA, which should benefit us once we head to section playoffs. While we have a goal to improve upon our win and loss count from last season, it’s just as important to continue evolving the program’s culture and making it a positive place for our students to participate.

We only have a third of our varsity roster represented by the senior class, but each of those will be impact players and all will collectively lead our program. This group is highlighted by our three senior captains: Amelia Rosenhamer, Anni Quaas, and Gracie Freyberg.

COMPETION:

The Big 9 continues to be a remarkably strong conference for girls soccer. We expect that both Mankato East and West

as well as Owatonna (top three finishers from last year) will all again be very tough. We expect to compete well in our new section and face all other schools in our section except Waseca in the regular season.

BY THE NUMBERS:

17 - total players on varsity

13 - returning letter winners

2 - freshmen

6 - seniors

Northfield head coach Cale Steinhoff talks with his players during a recent practice. (Tom Nelson/southernminn.com)

Northfield’s Amelia Rosenhammer readies for a corner kick during a 2022 game against Faribault. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Raiders junior keeper Zachary Breiland lines up a goal kick in Northfield’s 1AAA Section match against Owatonna in 2022. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Northfield’s Anni Quaas sets up to make a cross, which led to an assist during a game against Rochester Century in 2022. (File photo/southernminn. com)

KEY PLAYERS:

Gigi Lundi: athletic enough to play anywhere on the field. Should be the top scoring threat with a full season playing primarily forward; Olivia Weber: four-sport athlete that will anchor the defense; Romina Medina: brings speed and a non-stop motor to the attack; Camila Medina: Smart player. Our organizer in the midfield.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Nancy Fernandez: a senior that has come back to soccer after a year away. Brings experience and toughness.

Kenyon-Wanamingo/ Triton/Hayfield Girls Soccer

COACHES:

Head coach: Jeremy Himli, second year

Assistant coaches: Haylie Budahn is the only KenyonWanamingo player on this year’s team.

ROSTER: Haylie Budahn and Ivette Mendoza are the only KenyonWanamingo players on this year’s team.

2022 RECAP:

1-11 record (team plays as an independent with no conference affiliation). Lost to Rochester Lourdes 8-0 in first round of 2A playoffs.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We expect to be more competitive in more games with the amount of experience we have back. Three to five wins, and a No. 5 or 6 seed in Section 2A playoffs are realistic goals.

COMPETION:

Section 2A looks to be wide open, as perennial power Rochester Lourdes has been moved to Section 1A. PIZM and Fairmont would seem to be the favorites.

BY THE NUMBERS:

10 - returning starters from last year’s playoff game

12 - returning starters from the season as a whole

2 - goalkeepers that started multiple games

Triton/K-W/Hayfield’s Aisha Ramirez fights for a loose ball during a 2020 game. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Owatonna Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Rachel Malo, 2nd year

Assistant coach: Jason Kaytor, 18th year

ROSTER:

Kendra Bogen, OH, 10; Samantha Bogen, MB, 12; Mehsa Krause, OH, 12; Becca

Nielson, DS, 12; Adeline Schroht, S, 10; Halle Theis, L/DS, 11; Morgan Hansen, MB, 11; Carlie Dewitz, DS, 11; Elizabeth Radel, DS, 12; Libby Jensen, OH, 10; Ashlynn Schwering, OH, 12

KEY PLAYERS:

I am expecting a lot from our Senior returners this year, they have experienced the high

level of play and they have the competitive spirit. These girls are fired up to have a great senior year, they know the potential of their teammates, both returners and new faces to the Varsity Squad. Our mindset this year, “WHY NOT US?” These girls are hungry, and so are WE as coaches.

Mehsa Krause (senior) was a big swinger last year for

Medford Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Melissa Underdahl, 7th year

Assistant coach: Megan Mettler, 1st year; Mariah Berg, 2nd year

ROSTER:

Annette Kniefel, 12, MB; Peyton Snow, 12, DS/RS; Tessa Underdahl, 12, OH; Addison

Vandereide, 11, OH; Amanda Bock, 11, RS; Hailey Chambers, 11, DS; Hailey Hemann, 11, S; Saige Polzin, 11, DS; Maddie Huizel, 10, MB; Zoe Zacharias, 10, OH; Olivia Ward, 10, MB/ RS; Jade Laue, 10, DS

KEY PLAYERS:

We have a core group of athletes returning this season. Annette Kniefel and Addison

our offense, we are really looking for her to continue to terminate on the offensive end. I am really looking forward to what we will do on defense. Looking to play quick and scrappy!

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

I am excited about what we

will be able to do on defense this season. We do have some solid returners on the offensive line with Mehsa Krause and Kendra Bogen (OH) along with Samantha Bogen in the middle. Our goal this season is to play a quick and fast paced game. We did have some major losses after last season, we will have a fairly young and new lineup - which I am extremely

excited for. Being in the gym all summer has been very positive; we have high energy and a lot of athletes willing to work hard and buy into what we have planned for the future.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We have high expectations for the girls this season; we are 100% capable of finishing in the Top 3 of the BIG 9 this year. POTENTIAL- we as coaches know the potential of the girls, especially when they come together as ONE. It’s about them knowing that they have the potential to be the best. We are really working to improve the mental side of volleyball- because the skill/ fundamentals are there. I am also very excited about our leadership- we have 9 seniors ready to lead this team both on and off the court.

COMPETION:

As always, Rochester Mayo and Northfield are the favorites. These two teams have solid programs with amazing coaches. These matches will be FUN and COMPETITIVE, but our girls are ready for that.

BY THE NUMBERS:

11 - Total players

we lost a lot of close games but struggled finishing. We made it to the second round in the playoffs and lost to a very talented senior dominate Zumbrota-Mazeppa team at the Mayo Civic Center.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

Our goals this season are to work hard to be a top contender in the conference and make a run in the playoffs. We have a strong offense this season and will work hard on keeping the ball in play on defense. We have a lot of new players in our defense this season so we will be working hard on finding the right combination to meet our goal.

COMPETION:

Vandereide will lead our offense this year along with 1st year starter Maddie Huizel.

Tessa Underdahl and Amanda Bock will be great options in our offense to keep it balanced.

Hailey Hemann will run our offense for us again this year. She does a great job of moving the ball around and finding the best opportunity for us to run our offense. She also puts up a great block. We have

two seniors that will step into the captain role this season that are Tessa Underdahl and Annette Kniefel and we have a couple of juniors that will be learning the role of team captain.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Maddie Huizek, Peyton Snow and Amanda Bock are new to starting roles on the varsity team. Peyton Snow will help out in the back row bringing

her quickness to pursue the ball. Maddie Huizel will be a strong presence in the middle for us with both her blocking and attacking skills. Amanda will be our right side which gives us another option to keep our offense running helping out in the setter role and putting up a good block on the right side.

2022 RECAP:

Our 2022 season we finished in the middle of the conference,

We are hoping to be a top runner for the conference championship this year, we have a lot of strong programs in our conference. Every program is working hard on developing great programs and putting in the time in the offseason. Waterville and BA will be the favorites this season. Waterville didn’t graduate many and BA is always competitive.

BY THE NUMBERS:

12 - Total players

4 - Letter winners

The Owatonna volleyball team celebrates a point during the 2022 season. The Huskies are aiming for a top spot in the Big 9 conference during the 2023 season. (file photo/southernminn.com)

The Medford volleyball team celebrates a point during a 2022 regular season game against Zumbrota-Mazeppa. The Tigers look to fight back towards the top of the conference in 2023. (file photo/southernminn.com)

Owatonna senior Mehsa Krause will play a big role offensively for the Huskies during the 2023 season. (file photo/southernminn.com)

Medford middle hitter Annette Kniefel (6) touches the ball over the net for a point during the fifth set of a 2022 game against Blooming Prairie. Kniefel will be an important piece for the Tigers in the 2023 season. (file photo/southernminn.com)

NRHEG Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Ashley Tolzman, 2nd year

Assistant coaches: Corrine Schuller, Jen Hatton

ROSTER:

Keira Lenort, Sydney Lewer, Madison Murray, Faith Nielsen, Erin Peterson, Tayler Schmidt, Elsie Schultz, Hallie

KEY PLAYERS:

Hallie Schultz, Tayler Schmidt, and Faith Nielsen will all be returning this year. Their positions are yet to be determined. I expect they will bring a high level of intensity though. We do not have our captains figured out yet for this season but Hallie was one of our captains last year.

2022 RECAP:

Conference record 6-5, Overall record 21-7. Made it to subsection finals and fell to WEM.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

This year will be an exciting year full of new players.

COMPETION:

We have a very strong conference and section.

Bethlehem Academy, Kenyon, WEM, Hayfield are all very strong competitors.

Blooming Prairie Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Returns to start her 13th volleyball season as the head coach of the Awesome Blossoms

Assistant coach: Cory Hendrickson (JV), 4 years experience at JV; Alli Schmidt (C Squad), 3 years experience at C Squad

ROSTER:

Addison Doocy, MH/OH, Senior; Macy Lembke, S, Senior; Layla Lembke, RH/ DS, Senior; Annaka Forsberg, MH, Senior; Elizabeth Miner, OH, Senior; Ella Smith, MH, Junior; Mia Johnson, DS,

Junior; Mairead Holmes, OH, Junior; Brianna Deplitch, OH, Junior; Abby Jordison, RH/S, Junior; Catelyn Bartlett, RH/S, Junior; Milayna Davis, MH, Junior; Claire Schwarz, RH/S, Sophomore; Madelyn Harvey, DS/S, Sophomore; Samantha Hefling, OH, Sophomore

KEY PLAYERS:

Last season, we graduated 11 seniors. Many of those seniors were playing in our regular starting line-up. This year, we are working to rebuild a solid team while continuing to push our Blossoms program forward. Our girls put in a lot of time and effort in the winter season and the summer

season to improve and it is really helping us come together and construct an entirely new squad.

Macy Lembke is a returning starter who will lead our offense at the setting position. She is an experienced player who is expected to earn her 1,000th set assist early this fall.

In addition, Macy is evolving into a true team leader. She is a driving force in building this year’s team. Not only is she making consistent connections with our hitters, but she’s also an offensive threat in her own right and a strong server. We will look to Macy to get things done on the court.

Addison Doocy is another

returning starter who can play both MH and OH well. Addison is a competitor and her drive to succeed is undeniable. She is a strong blocker who takes pride in putting up a wall at the net. Addison has high standards and is extremely intelligent. As we form our team this year, we will look to Addison for her competitive edge and strong leadership.

Look to see some real fire from junior, Ella Smith. This will be Ella’s first varsity season, but she is bursting with potential. She’s a long player who hits a big ball from nearly any position. She’s a smart player who communicates well on the court. We’re looking for big things from Ella this season.

Annaka Forsberg is a senior MH with a mean vertical. Although she looks small in stature, she plays big. Annaka has a unique arm swing that is effective. In addition, she is an enthusiastic and determined athlete. I have high hopes for Annaka this season.

Layla Lembke is a senior athlete who can play just about anywhere on the court. As a former setter, she plays the right side naturally; however, she is also a talented back row player. Wherever we ultimately put Layla, I’m confident that she will bring it. She plays with a fire that you don’t see in a lot of athletes. She’s a smart player who brings a unique spark to the court.

Elizabeth Miner is a senior OH who radiates good vibes and creates positive team chemistry. As we work to replace so many positions this year, Elizabeth is crucial in creating an up-beat atmosphere in our gym. Elizabeth is a great kid who is learning to become a more aggressive hitter. She could be the key to our team really balancing our offense across the net and being a true threat in each hitting slot.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Incoming Juniors, Mairead Holmes, Brianna Deplitch, and Catelyn Bartlett are players who take good cuts at the ball and are working to improve their consistency. Any one of these athletes could make some big plays for us this fall. In addition, junior Mia Johnson adds depth for us in the back court.

Incoming sophomores, Claire Schwarz and Madelyn Harvey, are two underclassmen who have previously been setters in our program but could potentially help us round out our starting roster with some much-needed ball control, aggressive serving, and added depth. In addition, sophomore Sam Hefling is one of our most consistent passers in our gym and is an aggressive hitter from the OH position.

2022 RECAP:

2022 Gopher Conference Record 5-6

2022 Overall Record 12-13

Last year we played in Section 1AA. We played Medford @ Medford to end our 2021

Schultz, Isabel Stadheim Full Roster To Be Determined

The Blooming Prairie volleyball celebrates a point during a 2022 regular season home game. (file photo/southernminn.com)

The NRHEG volleyball team poses with the Section 2AA Sub-Section second place trophy during the 2022 Section 2AA tournament. (file photo/southernminn. com)

Blooming Prairie setter Macy Lembke prepares to serve the ball during a 2022 regular season home game. Lembke is entering into her senior season with the Awesome Blossoms. (file photo/southernminn. com)

NRHEG’s Hallie Schultz was an All-Conference First Team selection for volleyball during the 2022 season. Schultz returns as an important piece for NRHEG going into the 2023 season. (file photo/southernminn. com)

WEM Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Crystal Lamont, 17th season (355-128 overall record)

Assistant coaches: Ken Trnka, Trista Hering

ROSTER:

McKenna Schuster, 11, DS; Claire Bohlen, 12, OH; Tianna Pope, 11, RH; Grace Baker, 12, DS; Tatum Richards, 11, MH; Addison Condon, 10, OH; Alayna Atherton, 12, MH; Ashlyn Pelant, 11, S; Josephine Volkmann, 12, libero; Miranda Krystosek, 11, DS; Briley Velzke, 11, MH; Liza Baker, 10, S; Alix Velzke, 9, DS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

season. This year, our school dropped back down to Section 1A.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

Obviously, we are rebuilding after graduating 11 seniors last year. We have a lot of work ahead of us, but we know what it takes to get there and

KEY PLAYERS:

Claire Bohlen, Sr, OH – Claire developed into one of the top players in the conference and section last year. She is a smart hitter who sees the court well and hits a variety of shots. She was our offensive leader and an athletic defender.

Josie Volkmann, Sr., libero – Josie is a phenomenal defender. She is constantly moving on the court. We count on her to cover a huge chunk of our floor on defense. She is scrappy and gives her all every point. I look for her to be one of the top liberos in our class.

Alayna Atherton, Sr., MH –

are determined to maintain a high standard of play. Last year’s team helped us improve Awesome Blossoms volleyball and this year’s squad hopes to continue to push our program forward. We have great building blocks in the gym this fall. I’m confident that we will rebuild a strong team. One of our initial challenges is to find a way to come together and connect as a group.

Alayna was leading our team offensively last season until she suffered an ankle injury. She is tough player who loves to compete. She is a strong hitter who should be one of the top middles in the conference and section this season.

Grace Baker, Sr., Defensive Specialist – Grace is one of our best passers in serve receive. She has great instincts and can cover a great deal of court on defense. She will be a key component of our defensive success.

Addison Condon, Soph, OH – Addison played the best defense I have seen from a freshman in my program.

A major goal this season is to greatly improve our mental toughness – we graduated a lot of height and will need to replace that will hustle and floor defense. We are focusing on strong fundamentals and emphasizing hustle and heart to be more aggressive on defense.

As the head coach, I really want the kids to enjoy playing volleyball and competing. Most

She covered an unbelievable amount of court in her first season. Offensively she got stronger as the season progressed and I look for big things from her next season.

Ashlyn Pelant, jr, Setter/RH –Ashlyn has great court sense. She understands the game well and can anticipate what’s going to happen. She is our top

importantly, I want to see the players be their authentic selves on the court and play as a unified group with high energy. If the girls can do that, they will experience success. We know that we have a lot of work to do and if we can really get after it in these early weeks, look to see us constantly improve as the season progresses.

server and will be one of the best servers in the area this season.

Tatum Richards, jr, MH –Tatum is a consistent hitter who scored some key points for us last year. She has good blocking instincts and will be an integral part of our rotation.

COMPETION:

Honestly, there are a lot of great teams out there and we are going to have to bring it in every match. Our first game is at Rochester Lourdes on Thursday, August 24th and we will be challenged right away.

The Gopher Conference offers tough competition. I expect WEM, K-W, FBA, and NRHEG to have difficult teams to beat this season. We definitely have

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Tianna Pope, jr, RH – Tianna is an athletic player who will give us an additional offensive option out of the right side this season.

McKenna Schuster, jr, DS –McKenna can play multiple positions and her versatility will help our team in a variety of areas.

Miranda Krystosek, jr, DS –Miranda will provide defensive depth for our back row. Briley Velzke, jr, MH – Briley will provide offensive depth for our front row.

2022 RECAP

18-14 overall, 9-2 Gopher Conference (3rd )

Sub-Section 2AA South champs

Section 2AA Runner-ups

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We return all but one starter from last season. We are an athletic team who works hard to be the best defensive team every game. We lack height but our hitters have worked hard to become smarter and more precise with their shots. We will look to speed up our offense this year and become more diverse. This is a tight group of girls that play well together. They are an unselfish group who want to see each other succeed.

our work cut out for us, but I believe that we are up for the challenge.

BY THE NUMBERS:

15 - total players

5 - Seniors

7 - Juniors

3 - Sophomores

5 – returning letter winners

The WEM volleyball team holds the 2022 Section 2AA Sub-Section championship after beating NRHEG during the playoffs last season. WEM returns plenty of talent and will look for another successful season. (file photo/southernminn.com)

WEM libero Josie Volkmann goes for a set shot during the 2022 2AA Section Championship match against Belle Plaine. Volkmann returns to the Buccaneers as one of the top liberos in the conference, section and class. (file photo/southernminn.com)

KEY PLAYERS:

Faribault Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Eryn Harman (second year with varsity, 10th in program)

Assistant coach: Tara Melchert (first year as assistant after being co-head coach last year, 12th in the program)

ROSTER:

Jacee Frank, senior, libero/ defensive specialists; Nikki Hausen, senior, Right side/ Middle Hitter; Halle Rice, senior, Middle Hitter; Rylee Sietsema, senior, Outside Hitter; Ana Bokman, junior, libero/defensive specialists;

Josie Herda, junior, Outside hitter; Tori Manahan, junior, Right side/Middle Hitter; Alayna Simon, junior, setter; Nyanpal Reat, junior, Right side hitter; Amanda Cullen, sophomore, setter; Amira Williams, freshman, right side hitter/setter

Josie Herda, Rylee Sietsema, Halle Rice, Tori Manahan

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Amanda Cullen

2022 RECAP

Last year, we placed fourth in our section, which felt great. We had a strong group of girls that took us into the second round of sections where we fell

in five sets to a talented Kasson team.

2023 SEASON

OUTLOOK:

We graduated six seniors last year, which is opening up doors for other players to shine. Our goals for this year are to focus on the growth we make from now to the end of the season. The success of our season will not be dictated by the amount of wins we have but by improvements and

dedications we put in these next few months.

BY THE NUMBERS:

11 - total players

1 - returning All-Conference

Honorable Mention

4 - seniors

Coaches Eryn Harman and Tara Melchert talk to the Falcons during a break in action during a 2022 Faribault volleyball match. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Faribault junior Halle Rice goes for the kill against the Wingers in a 2022 match. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Bethlehem Academy Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Christine Bothun, fifth year as BA head coach, 17th overall

Assistant coaches: Jill Strodtman, fifth year as BA assistant coach, 14th year overall; Shelby Glenzinski, fourth year; Elizabeth Klotter, fourth year

ROSTER:

Sydney Dienst, 12th, Outside Hitter; Anna Cohen, 11th, Setter; Genevieve Donahue,

11th, Right Side Hitter; Ava Gershemehl, 11th, Outside Hitter/Defensive Specialist; Olivia Glumack, 11th, Middle Hitter; Mariana Hager, 10th, Setter; Taylor Moon, 11th, Right Side Hitter; Anna Tobin, 11th, Defensive Specialist, Setter; Morgan Wilson, 11th, Middle Hitter/Right Side Hitter; Brylie Becker, 10th, Defensive Specialist; Caitlin Bothun, 10th, Outside Hitter, Setter; Sarah Tobin, 9th, Right Side Hitter, Middle Hitter; Claire Wisdo, 9th, Libero

KEY PLAYERS:

Sydney Dienst: Last season, Sydney was one of our top serve receivers, gave us a strong attack on the outside with one of our top hitting percentages and also one of our top servers. She is a strong all-around player and leader on the court.

Anna Cohen: Anna has done a nice job as a defensive specialist for us the past two years at the varsity level. She has also been our back-up setter and is now moving back

into the role as a setter and an attacker in the front row. Her skills will provide us with many options this fall.

Claire Wisdo: Claire is returning as our Libero this fall. She has grown a lot in the off-season and we are very excited to have her back on the court. She is also a strong server and we are excited for what that will add to our game.

Anna Tobin: Anna was a defensive specialist for us last year and will continue to play in that role this year as well as possibly setting for us at times. She is a quick athlete, makes adjustments well and is a leader on the court.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Many of the following players played JV last year and dressed varsity, but saw little playing time:

Olivia Glumack: She is a big middle hitter for us that is able to run a variety of attacks, puts up a big block and brings a ton of energy to the court.

Morgan Wilson: Morgan is a versatile hitter that brings a lot of power to the floor and gives us a big block across the front.

Caitlin Bothun: Caitlin is transitioning to a setting role this year while also remaining in serve receive. She is a very smart player on the court and adjusts well to what is thrown at her.

2022 RECAP

Conference Record: 110, Gopher Conference champions; section runner-up; Gold Team All-State Academic Award

We had a great run last season with a heartbreaking end, as we were ranked No. 1 in Section 1A and lost in the

All-Conference players; two All-Conference HM players; two All-State players

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

semifinals to Mabel-Canton. The growth we had throughout the season was fun to watch, along with the chemistry on the court. We graduated six seniors who greatly contributed to our success.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

Our goals for this season include: building team chemistry as we have many players new to their varsity roles; repeating as Gopher Conference champions; playing in the section championship in Rochester to earn a trip to state.

COMPETITION:

We should be among the top teams in our conference. We expect Waterville-ElysianMorristown, KenyonWanamingo and Medford to also produce strong teams in our conference. Section competition will include Mabel-Canton and Fillmore Central - both strong programs.

BY THE NUMBERS:

13 - total players

7 - letter winners

1 - senior

8 - juniors

2 - sophomores

2- freshmen

COMPETITION:

Northfield Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Elizabeth Larson, first year returning as head coach; previously 2000-07

Assistant coaches: Franz Boelter, first year with NHS, 30-plus years of coaching

experience; Anna Dols, first year; Zandra Bornhauser, fourth year; Tallie BerkvamPeter, first year; Anne Lehmkuhl, first year

ROSTER: Lucy Larson - 12 - Libero/DS; Bella Rushing - 12 - Libero/

DS; Jadyn Schulz - 12Middle/Pin; Faith Corbett - 11 - Middle/Pin; Addison Ertz - 11 - Pin; Teagan Jaynes - 11 - Setter; Hannah Koester - 11 - Pin; Kelin McDowell - 11 - Middle; Amber Mahal - 10Middle/RS; Edith Larson - 9 - Setter

KEY PLAYERS:

All of the returners will be key components of our team. Bella and Lucy will handle the floor defense detail. Hannah and Addi are extremely effective and versatile on the pins, and Teagan brings experience, strategy and a high skill level to the setting position.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

All of our new athletes are ready to compete and make an impact at the varsity level. Kelin and Faith have shown significant growth from last year and take terminal swings at the net. Jadyn has improved with her shot options and blocking technique. Amber is new on the scene and right away is able to play above the net with a high contact point. As a newcomer, Edith is showing promise as an option to diversify our offense.

2022 RECAP

2022 Big 9 Conference Champs; second place in Section 1AAAA; first place in the SWMN Challenge; five

Our team is approaching the goal setting process with optimism and high expectations. We were reclassified to AAA and we have all new section opponents. As a first year coach with five returners and five new players, we are working to get to know each other, set gym norms, establish standards for practice and competitions, and learn new systems. We have worked hard this summer to prepare for the start of this season. The effort and attention these players have put into their volleyball performance is tremendous. Every player is coming back showing significant growth.

We expect to compete with all of our conference opponents. Rochester Mayo and Rochester Century are traditionally very talented programs. Our new Section, 6AAA, is filled with teams we don’t face often in the regular season so we will have to do some significant work to research and learn more about these teams during the season.

BY THE NUMBERS:

10 - Total players

6 - Letter winners

3 - Seniors

5 - Juniors

1 - Sophomore

1 - Freshman

Bethlehem Academy volleyball’s Sydney Dienst hits the ball during a 2022 match. (File photo/southernminn.com)

First-year volleyball coach Elizabeth Larson greeted her team in the gymnasium on the first day of 2023 practice. (Tom Nelson/southernminn.com)

Anna Cohen serves for Bethlehem Academy in 2022 match in Medford. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Northfield’s Tegan Jaynes, left, helps to defend a shot against the Falcons in a 2022 matchup. (File photo/ southernminn.com)

Northfield libero Lucy Larson serves against Prior Lake in a 2022 match. (File photo/southernminn.com)

2022 RECAP

We lost 7 amazing seniors with great leadership on and off the court. Overall record was 22-91 Conference record: 10-1 and placed second in the Gopher Conference. Made it to the sub-section championship and lost a very competitive, five-set match to Mabel-Canton. Was ranked in the top 10 for 1A all season.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

Kenyon-Wanamingo Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Tracy Erlandson, 16th year

Assistant coaches: Cheryl Dahl, 14th year; Siri Quam, fourth year

ROSTER:

Josie Flom 12 OH; Norah Rechtzigel 12 MH; Rachel Ryan 12 Libero; Anna Syverson 12 OH; McKenzie Moore

12 OH; Carmen Nersion 11 Setter/RH; Lydia Flotterud

11 Setter; Emma Johnson 11 MH/RH; Amber Lerfald 11 RH; Audrey Haugen 10 MH; Addy Lindell 10 RH; Emilie Jarvis 10 DS; Anna Ostertag 9 OH; Samantha Boyum 9 MH; Eva Jacobson 9 DS; Kendal Johnson 9 Setter; Mali Quam

7 Setter

KEY PLAYERS:

Norah Rechtzigel (MH): strong block and is able to turn the ball from the middle. Has gotten stronger and smarter in

her decision making.

Rachel Ryan (L): very good passer. Is able to read the ball well and will make plays to keep the ball in play. Vocal leader.

Josie Flom (OH): has gotten stronger and does a nice job of cut shots. Very smart volleyball player.

Carmen Nerison (S): works very well with her hitters. She will also be playing on some front row and is able to make

St. Peter Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Carmen Hanson, -- 17th year

Assistant coaches: Hannah Johnson-- 3rd year & Abby Haggenmiller 1st year

Middle school coaches: Niki Zitur 7th year & Cari Panizke 2ndyear

KEY PLAYERS:

Seniors: Abby Maloney: Third year varsity player; captain 22 & 23. Abby has great court sense, and uses that to strategically place the ball to gain points for our team. She is a universal player that can hit anywhere, and she has really been working on her back row defense which will be an

additional asset for our team.

Riley Rubischko: Third year varsity player, and captain 23. Riley’s defensive play and passing is top notch. She is a scrappy player and is one of our lead serving scorers on our team. We rely on her leadership in our backrow.

Juniors: Emmy Remmert: Third year varsity player,

smart decision. She reads the court well.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Audrey Haugen (MH): she has a great arm swing. Is able to read the defense and cut around them.

Anna Syverson (OH): vocal leader. She is able to play all 6 positions. Very good court sense.

Addy Lindell (RH): she is a lefty. She is able to hit line well. Strong and powerful swing.

We have some strong players returning who have had varsity experience that will help us lead the team. A great group of competitive ladies. They never give up and will push for every point. Expectation will be to place in the top three of the Gopher Conference and advance into playoffs with a winning record. Be in top eight for playoffs in Section 1A.

COMPETITION:

We are right up at the top with teams in the Gopher Conference. We may have lost a great group of seniors, but this years team is not one to overlook. We will be very competitive with teams in the section as well.

BY THE NUMBERS:

5 - Seniors

4 - Juniors

3 - Sophomores

4 - Freshman

1 - Seventh grader

We lost both the conference and the section to Marshall. The girls have learned a lot playing in a higher section last year and hope to use that experience to strive to continue to be contenders in our conference and section.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

and captain 23. Emmy is a tremendous hard worker and puts forth 110% each day she enters the court. She has put a lot of time into improving her skills and her offensive attacks will be something our opponents will have to contend with. Emmy lead our team last year in kills.

Iris Elias: Second year varsity, and captain 23. Iris also has put in a lot of time perfecting her setting skills. She is a selfish teammate, and strives to give the perfect. She has gained a lot of game sense and we look to her as one of our court leaders.

Olivia Seys: Second year varsity. Olivia has worked hard on perfecting her position as a

MB. She will be one of our top defenders blocking at the net, as well as one a hitter.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Taylor Sickler (Jr): Taylor has great ball control, and is a scrappy all around player. Don’t let her size fool you, she can get up and attack as well as defend!

2022 RECAP

Season Record : 19-6, 10-2

BSC, BSC East Division Champions and BSC Runner Up. Section 2AAA Runner Up.

The Saints Volleyball Team set a school record by achieving Section 2AAA Runner Up.

Our goals and expectations this season is to take our team one step further. First focusing on winning the BSC and then Section 2AAA. We have many returning players, and they know what they will have to improve on during the season to accomplish these goals.

COMPETITION:

As noted, St. Peter is one team to contend with. Teams do not overlook us, and must prepare to play us. Marshall is in both our conference and section, and has many state appearances. They will be the team to beat.

BY THE NUMBERS:

We will have large numbers at all grade levels. We currently have a total of 17 seniors & juniors, and 23 in the sophomore class. Numbers have never been an issue for Volleyball. I do anticipate having a V, JV, B & C squad.

Kenyon-Wanamingo’s Rachel Ryan makes a pass during a volleyball tournament in 2022. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Abby Maloney. (File photo)

Norah Rechtzigel hits a serve during a volleyball tournament at Tri-City United in 2022. (File photo/ southernminn.com)

Libero Riley Rubischko makes a diving dig for the Saints. (file photo)

Le Sueur-Henderson Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Stacey Feser, 5th year

Assistant coaches: Nick Feser, 1st year, Lauren Gregersen, 3rd year, and Anne Lewis, 4th year

KEY PLAYERS:

I have five seniors returning and many come with varsity experience. I expect them to

lead the team this year and bring a lot of great energy to the gym. They are Morgan Gregersen, Alivia Drent, Brynn Biedscheid, Kelsey Wetzel, and Chloe Conrad. Other returning key players are Bailey Lehman and Maneejae Mostaghimi.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

There are some younger players that I’m very excited about after our first few days of practice. They work hard and will be around for the next few years to gain experience and keep our team playing hard.

One player is Victoria Hutton, who is a freshman. She has a ton of potential and brings some raw natural talent to the floor. Maneejae Mostaghimi is not new to varsity but has worked very hard in the off season and is a player that I think will have a big impact on the floor.

2022 RECAP

Season Record : 19-6, 10-2 Record was 8-22 for the season and our conference record was 2-4. We finished 5th in the conference out of 7 teams. We lost our first playoff

Tri-City United Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Katie Keogh, 1st year at TCU, 8th year as head coach in MSHSL

Assistant coaches: Lora

Angileno, 20+ years coaching several sports (including

volleyball), Lexie Franek, 4th year, and Amanda Sladek, 2nd year

ROSTER:

Sophie Whipps - S (11)

Emily Smisek - S (12)

Neysa Anderson - S (11)

Audrey Vosejpka - MB (11)

Emme Beer - MB (9)

Brynn Fitterer - MB (12)

Ali Weydert - OH (12)

Lexi Factor - OH (12)

Morgan Frederickson - RH (12)

Lexi Marcussen - DS (11)

Emma Skluzacek - DS (11)

Kaylee Harkins - RH/MB (11)

KEY PLAYERS:

I expect all of our returners to show not only their experience on the court, but to be vocal leaders on the court. They all show a lot of talent and skill, and we are looking for them to show a higher level of intensity during competition this season to help us earn as many wins and play as competitively as possible..

game to Southwest Christian and ended the season. We showed great improvement over the season, especially for a team with very little varsity experience!

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

I am excited for the team this season. We won’t be the tallest team in the gym but we are very scrappy and I anticipate our defense to be tough! We don’t have as many girls in our gym as we have had in seasons past and many young players that we are developing. With that there will be a lot of opportunity for playing time and volleyball court experience, which will help our younger girls to be big contributors as they move up to varsity.

COMPETITION:

Our conference always has great competition and great volleyball programs. The favorites are always Mayer Lutheran, Belle Plaine, and SWC. Who have had many state appearances in their programs. To compete against these teams and win means you’re a top team in the state!

competitive mindset and have high expectations for ourselves. We have a lot of athletic, talented players, and we need to maximize that by being confident and intense on the court. If we can play with mental toughness and discipline, we will be competitive within both our conference and section.

COMPETITION:

2022 RECAP

Conference record from 2022: 2-6

This year we are looking to be more competitive within our conference. Our players have worked hard to develop as individuals and a team during the off-season, and we’re ready to put that to the test on the court.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

Our main goal for the 2023 season is to play with a

Within our section, Belle Plaine, Glencoe-Silver Lake, and Southwest Christian will be some of the top teams. It will be important for us to take advantage of any matches we can get against them and other strong teams to compete, learn, and then utilize that experience to make a strong run during sections.

BY THE NUMBERS:

12 - total players

7- letter winners

5 - seniors

6- juniors

1- freshmen

Bailey Lehman. (file photo)

Emily Smisek (file photo)

Brynn Biedscheid hammers an attack around a Cleveland defender. (file photo)

Lexi Factor attacks from the left side. (file photo)

Cleveland Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Dave Nixon, 2nd year at Cleveland, 24th year overall (17 years at LSH, 5 years at Loyola)

Assistant coaches: Bree Meyer, 8th year, and Ellie Johnson, 2nd year

ROSTER:

# Player Grade Position

1 Savannah Meyer 11 Libero

2 Ava Hahn 11 OH

3 Greta Hahn 12 S

4 Chloe Anderson 12 DS

5 Lacey McCabe 11 DS/OH

7 Laci Hollerich 12 R

8 Melia Sathoff 9 OH

9 Jocelyn Bartell 11 MB

10 Mariah McCabe 12 DS

11 Delaney Thompson 9 S/DS

12 Maya Lassiter 11 MB

13 Sophie Perkins 11 MB/S

14 Anika Sathoff 8 MB/OH

17 Lilly Lamont 12 S

18 Addi Holden 11 R/MB

Waseca Volleyball

COACHES:

Krissy Plonske, 1st year

C-Squad coach: Kelsey Kahnke, 1st year

ROSTER:

1 McKyla Hasselquist, Senior, RH

2 Kendall Bowers, Junior, DS 3 Takara Slattery, Junior, L 4 Evelyn O’Brien, Senior, MH 5 Kennedy Lynch, Junior, RH/OH

6 Siri Kuhns, Junior, S 7 Aliyah Taylor, Junior, OH 8 Allie Eldeen, Senior, MH 11 Alyssa Kilmer, Sophomore, RH/OH 12 Lily Owens, Junior, DS 13 Ellery Waldron, Sophomore, RH

14 Kalea Sartori, Junior, MH

17 Ellie Hoehn, Junior, OH

KEY PLAYERS:

Aliyah Taylor, Siri Kuhns, Ellie Hoehn, Takara Slattery

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

McKyla Hasselquist, Ellery Waldron, Kalea Sartori, Kendall Bowers

2022 RECAP

Latest season’s record was 11-11

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

Goal; Fight hard and never quit. Finish the game strong.

Become a team and not individuals.

Expectations; Be a team player. Always show respect for your teammates and your coaches. Work Hard and have fun while doing it.

COMPETITION:

New year, new team. We are shaping our team into something really positive this season. I don’t like favorites.

BY THE NUMBERS:

13 - Total players

8 - Juniors

2 - Sophomore

3 - Seniors

Managers: Madison Peterson & Addie Gibeau

KEY PLAYERS:

Greta Hahn, 12, Setter

Ava Hahn, 11, Outside Hitter

Savannah Meyer, 11, Libero

Laci Hollerich, 12, Rightside Hitter

Melia Sathoff, 9, Outside Hitter

Chloe Anderson, 12, Defensive Specialist

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Sophie Perkins, 11, MB/S

Anika Sathoff, 8, MB/OH

Maya Lassiter, 11, MB

Jocelyn Bartell, 11, MB

2022 RECAP

We won the Valley Conference last year with an 8-0 Conference Record. We were Section runner-up to Mayer Lutheran. We finished last year 22-10 and bring back a lot of key players.

2023 SEASON

OUTLOOK:

We hope to improve on last year’s record, win the Valley Conference again and get back to the Section Final

and compete at a higher level than we did a year ago. We feel we have the players necessary to win a Section Championship and play in a State Tournament.

COMPETITION:

The favorites in the conference are Alden-Conger, LCWM & Cleveland. The favorites in the Section are Mayer Lutheran, BOLD, Cedar Mountain, & Cleveland. We feel we can compete with any Class A team in the state and will compete against many of the top teams at the Class A Showcase on September 22 & 23.

BY THE NUMBERS:

15 - total players

10 - returning letter winners

5 - seniors

7 - juniors

2 - freshman

1 - 8th grader

3 - sets of sisters on the team (Greta & Ava Hahn, Mariah & Lacey McCabe, and Melia & Anika Sathoff).

Ava Hahn smashes a kill off the Tiger block. (File photo)

Savannah Meyer makes a lunging dig. (File photo)

Bluejays Volleyball. (File photo)

2022 RECAP

2022 Conference Record 1-10; 11th

Lost in Section Quarterfinals to Cedar Mountain

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

Janesville-Waldorf-

Pemberton Volleyball

COACHES:

Head coach: Jessica Keenan, 5th year

Assistant coaches: Tater Schmitz, 5th year, and Kayla Holden, 2nd year

ROSTER:

Ali Olson - 12 - Defensive Specialist

Aubrey Weedman - 11 - Setter/ Rightside

Ava Appel - 11 - Outside

Brielle Bure - 11 - Libero

Brielle Dessner - 11 - Outside

Caitlin Kleve - 12 - Rightside

Claire Walz - 11 - Rightside

Ellah Oliver - 11 - Defensive Specialist

Hope Dimmel - 11 - Outside/ Middle/Rightside

Katie Olson - 10 - Outside

Lexie Dahlberg - 12 - Defensive Specialist

Lilly Strauss - 11 - Middle

Nevaeh Weimert - 10 - Setter

Paige Walz - 11 - Outside

Presley James - 11 - Middle

KEY PLAYERS:

Aubrey Weedman - Aubrey is returning for her 3rd season setting for the varsity team.

She will also be a benefit playing in the front row and being an outlet if the setter takes the first ball.

Brielle Bure - Brielle ranked in the top 3 for single season digs last year. We are hoping she continues to build on that success!

Lilly Strauss - Lilly’s honing in on her volleyball skills, and that complimented by her sheer athleticism is going to be a force to be reckoned with!

Claire and Paige Walz - The “Walz Wall”! These two provide us height in the front row and will give the other team’s offense a big block to have to work around this season!

Ali Olson and Lexie DahlbergThese two seniors are scrappy backrow players that give it

Cross Country

their all to keep the ball from hitting the floor.

Nevaeh Weimert - Neveah is returning to set for her second season. She has grown a lot over the last year, and gotten much quicker!

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Presley James - Presley has put in a lot of work in the off season, and is going to be a tough hitter for other teams to shut down this season!

Katie Olson - Katie is switching positions this season from setting to hitting. She is extremely athletic and plays very high. Teams will be shocked with her blocking ability and offense!

Last season we had a very young team after graduating 5 starters. The sophomores stepped up in those roles, but still had some struggles due to being such a young team and lacking experience. This season we only graduated 2 starters, both who only played front row positions, so we are coming back with a lot of experience in the back row, and on the setting front! The girls played hard last year, but had a hard time finding the finish. I believe that the girls will only grow from where they were last year, and JWP is going to be a team to challenge our competitors for the next few years!

BY THE NUMBERS:

15 - total players

12 - returning varsity athletes

8 - returning starters

3 - seniors

10 - juniors

2 - sophomores

St. Peter Girls Cross Country

ROSTER: Mackenzie Steinborn 12 Robin Hibscher 10

Grace Penner 8

Lucia Penner 8

Maire Wils 8

Sara Heins 11

Emily Heins 11

Lexi Timmerman 12

Octavia Fuller 10

Kendra Johnson 9

Kady Thoms 9

Keira Friedrich 10

Payton Fredrickson 7

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Not sure who will step up for us but we have a good returning group who should be very competitive by the end of the season. I feel we might be better than last season witth the amount of summer miles the girls logged.

2022 RECAP

Second place in the conference Middle of the pack in the section meet

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

KEY PLAYERS:

Sophomore Keira Friedrich returns after finishing 21st at state as a freshman while splitting time between varsity cross country and varsity soccer.

Young group that put in some miles this summer. We should be more competitive than we were last year. Our summer training should pay off if we can stay injury free. I would like to finish in the top three in the conference and in the top half at the section meet.

COMPETION:

Marshal will be the favorite with Waseca right behind them. Both have been very good for many years. They seem never to be in rebuilding, but just have new girls who step right into their lineup.

COACHES: Head coach: Jeff Portugue 33rd year

Assistant coach: Ryan Timmerman 4th year

Aubrey Weedman (8) and Claire Walz (2). (file photo)

Lucia Penner (lead), Robin Hibscher (left) and Mackenzie Steinborn race each other to the finish line. (file photo)

Brielle Bure. (file photo)

Keira Friedrich. (file photo)

St. Peter Boys Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach: Bill Stuewe

18thYear

Assistant coach: Ryan Timmerman 4th year

ROSTER: Anthony Coe 12, Corbin Herron 12, Callum Harmes 11, John Kennedy 11, Tobias Twait 11, Lathe Bly 10, Logan Bock 10, Alex Bur 10, Jentzen, Franklin 9, Broden Conrad 9, Ben Stuewe 9, Laird Bly 8, Karac Forbord 8, Enzo Gazzola 8, Isaac Humphery 8, Tim Culuris 8, Ben Conlon 7, Levi Moenck 7.

KEY PLAYERS:

Alex Bur, Corbin Herron,

Callum Harmes. Alex had a strong track season and ran a lot this summer, Corbin was a state entrant in track and continued his training all summer long. Callum ran a lot of summer miles.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Anthony Coe should be in the hunt for a varsity spot this season, he also put in a lot of miles over the summer. Logan Bock had a good track season and is a returning letterwinner.

2022 RECAP

The team finished 5th at the conference meet. 12th at sections

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We are trying to run our fastest by the end of the season, there are teams in our section that are rebuilding. We want to be competitive with those teams, I feel we can do that.

COMPETION:

Conference favorite Marshall. Section 2AA favorite Belle Plaine and Mankato East

BY THE NUMBERS:

18 - total runners

17:41 Fastest 5k last season

7 - returning letter winners

2 - seniors

Tri-City United Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach: Brian Fogal, 15th year

Assistant coach: Craig Nordling, 5th year

ROSTER: Boys

Ian Hart - 7

Grayson Moon - 7

Gabriel Coryell - 8

Collin Mechtel - 9

Grant Fitterer - 10

Isaak Worm - 10

Peter Robrahn - 10

Caleb Robrahn - 12

Goi Ruei - 12

Girls

Mara Livingston - 7

Elizabeth Robrahn - 7

Taylor Engel - 8

Tara Anderson - 9

Estella Hoffard - 9

Kaylee Gogerty - 10

Lillian Rondorf - 10

Megan Marek - 11

Yasmin Ruiz-Ruiz - 11

Olivia Burns - 12

Sofia Smith -12

KEY PLAYERS:

Boys: Sophomore Grant Fitterer is the only returning top 5 runner for the Titans. He ran a lot this summer and looks very good at the beginning of the season.

Girls: Junior Yasmin RuizRuiz has competed at state in both track and cross country. She looks very strong at the beginning of the season

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Boys: First year senior Goi Ruei nearly made it to state in the 800 last year placing 3rd at sections. I’m hoping he figures out and enjoys cross country.

Girls: Sophomore Lillian Rondorf and 8th Grader Taylor Engel both had very good seasons last year and hopefully can build on that this year.

2022 RECAP

Boys team team graduated State Participant Dante

Juberien, along with Seniors Michael Pichotta, Cole Walters, and Janik Wagner. Most of the team is very young and very new.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

The boys team is very young and inexperienced. Only Grant Fitterer returns as a full time varsity runner. We will rely on first year senior Goi Ruei, Senior Caleb Robrahn, Sophomore Peter Robrahn, Isaak Worm, and Freshman Collin Mechtel.

Girls team is a mix of youth and experience led by Junior Yasmin Ruiz. Projected top

seven include Lillian Rondorf, Taylor Engel, Kaylee Gogerty, Olivia Burns, Megan Marek, and Sophie Smith.

COMPETION:

We will see how the season goes early. I hope that we can continue to improve and hopefully surprise some teams at the end of the season.

BY THE NUMBERS:

21 - total boys and girls 7-12

3 - boy letter winners

2 - boy seniors

6- girl letter winners

2 - girl seniors

Corbin Herron (right), Callum Harmes (middle) and Logan Bock (left). (file photo)

Grant Fitterer (File photo)

Yasmin Ruiz. (file photo)

The 2022 Section 2A Runner-Up Mankato Loyola/Cleveland Crusaders. The questionnaire for this team was not returned in time for publication. (File photo)

Waseca Cross

Country

COACHES:

Head coach: Grant Popp, 8th year head coach

Assistant coaches: Heidi McCabe, 8th year, and Nancy Kaplan

ROSTER: Kelsey Draeger, Noelle Drake, Callie Dufault, Maddie Halla, Berkly Hinna, Taylor Markeson, Stella Omtvedt, Violet Rohwer, Maren Schimming, Norah Schimming,

Ava VanDenHemel, Jenna Yoder, Quinn Yoder, Melanie Kruger, Jack Anderson, Isaac Feldkamp, Sam Feldkamp, Tristan Godwin, Tanner Hanson, Colby Hoof, Tyler Jellum, Elijah Johanneck, Levi Ring, Dakota Mertz, Bobby Mortenson, Colton Schroeder.

KEY PLAYERS:

On the girls team, we return 5 of our top 7, led by Callie Dufault and Stella Omtvedt. On the boys, we return 4 of our top 7 with Isaac Feldkamp leading the way.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Taylor Markeson finished the season on the varsity last year, but had a great summer of training and will be a bigger factor this year. On the boys side, Tanner Hanson and Tyler Jellum both had great summers and look to have a bigger role on the varsity.

2022 RECAP

Last year our girls team finished 3rd in the Big South and first in Section 1AA. They ended up 13th at the state meet. The boys team was 4th in the Big South and 7th in Section 1AA.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

I am hoping the girls team

can improve their conference finish and repeat as section champs. We lost some key seniors last year, and based on returning runners from the section meet, we are projected to be 3rd place. However, I think the girls had a good summer of training and will be willing to put in the work to compete for a return to state. On the boys side, I think we can improve both our conference and section finishes. We lost 2 of our top 3 runners from last season, but all of our returning runners put in more miles this summer and I think our top 5 will be able to score better even with our losses.

COMPETION:

There are some really strong cross country teams in the conference. Marshall is always competitive on both the boys and girls sides, and the Worthington boys are very good also. In our section, Faribault is strong on both sides, along with a number of teams on the girls who will be competitive. I think the Winona boys are a strong favorite to be section 1AA champs.

BY THE NUMBERS:

Girls: Only 1 senior girl

Boys: 4 of top 5 runners are all 11th graders

Le Sueur-Henderson Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach: Shannon Froehlich, 2nd year

Assistant coach: Sue Hynes, 2nd year

ROSTER: 23 runners present at first practice.

KEY PLAYERS:

Norah Renstrom had a great season last year. Her hard work earned her All-Conference honors in the MRC and she placed 12th at Sections. Brandy Wolf has been a dedicated runner throughout her cross country career. She has earned

Honorable Mention honors at MRC.

Josiah Juarez has also earned Honorable Mention honors at MRC. He puts in the time and effort to build strength and endurance.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

We have some new athletes joining the team that have strong work ethic so it will be fun to watch what they accomplish.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

For the season, the goals are for the athletes to meet their personal goals and to grow as a supportive team. Most importantly, it is for them to enjoy the experience and have fun!

COMPETION:

Too soon to tell, but with hard work and dedication these athletes will meet their personal goals.

Stella Omtvedt (454) and Callie Dufault (449). (file photo)

Norah Renstrom at the MRC section meet. (File Photo)

Isaac Feldkamp. (file photo)

Josiah Juarez running in the section meet. (File Photo)

ROSTER: Girls

WEM/JWP Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach from JWP: Eric Kehoe, around 12 years coaching (including some as a volunteer), maybe 6th as head coach?

Head coach fromWEM: Skyler Petry, first year coaching

Assistant coach: Elizabeth Kvebak, first year coaching at WEM/JWP Cross Country

Owatonna Boys Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach from JWP: Luke Holt, 1st year head coach (5 years assistant)

Assitant Coach: Jacob Jensen, 1st year assistant coach (2 years middle school)

Middle School Coach: Chelsea Grambo, 1st year middle school

ROSTER:

Justin Gronli, 12; Jack Thamert, 12; Lucas Mazariego, 12; Henry Hilgendorf, 12; Nate Seykora, 12; Leyton Williams, 12; Cody Drever, 11; Jack Sorenson, 11; Ayoub Farah, 10; Dawson Levy, 10; Finn Vieths, 10; Ethan Borchert, 10; Johnathan Niessen, 9; Asher Leon, 9; Lucas Candullo, 9;

Kaiden Struss, 9; Micah Gentz, 9; Lowell Schultz, 9; Ryder Erdman, 9; Mason Myrom, 9; Grayson Slotsve, 9

KEY PLAYERS:

Two athletes to watch on the boys cross country team this fall are senior captain Leyton Williams and incoming junior Jack Sorenson.

Leyton Williams is the top returner from last year’s Owatonna section team and is in contention to qualify as an individual this coming year. Jack Sorenson made tremendous improvements over the track season where he competed in the state meet, and is looking to qualify with Williams as an individual. As

CONTINUED ON PAGE 36

Adams, Anne 8, Coulsey, Lydia 7, Heuss, Madeline 10, Hoehn, Madeline 11, Huelsnitz, Lydia 11, Krause, Kwynn 10, Miller, Madalyn 8, Schlie, Ellie 10, Westphal, MaKenzie 8, White, Lauren 12.

Boys

Brown, Gavin 11, Jans, Wyatt 9, Kleve, Alex 11, Moreno, Maddox 11, Mulder, Teagan 7, Whitener, James.

KEY PLAYERS:

For the girls, we have Makenzie

For the boys, we have Alex Kleve and Wyatt Jans. Both broke 5 minutes during the Track season, so hopefully we will be seeing their 5k times come down as well. During Track they are competitors with one being from JWP and one from WEM. Hopefully that friendly competition will push each to drop their times further during this season.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

For the girls, Madalyn Miller was starting to get the 5k figured out near the end of last season with a time of 23:09. If she can continue to drop like she was at the end of the season, she has potential to round out our 5 scoring runners nicely.

For the boys, Teegan Mulder is young, just a 7th grader, but after running 5:39 as a 6th grader in junior high Track, he might sneak onto the varsity roster.

2022 RECAP

Conference:

Girls - 2nd as a Team

Honorable Mention: Ashlin Keyes(15)

All Conference Second

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

The team has unfortunately shrunk from last year with the graduation of some great athletes, a few others moving on to other activities. We do have a few new athletes who look promising, but they are definitely unknowns. If things come together well, the returning varsity girls along with some new additions should be able to hold similar to where we were last year. And who knows, maybe we can pull off a conference championship with the girls as I feel that Kwynn and Madalyn will both be stronger than they were last year. For the boys I’m hoping we can improve on last season as I think Alex and Wyatt will be measurably better over last year, and we have some new additions that might also help us improve our overall team score. I’m looking forward to working with all of our athletes, old and new.

COMPETION:

Westphal returning as an 8th grader after competing at State last year. She had a very strong Track season as well, competing at state in the 4x400 meters. She holds the JWP record for both the 1600 and 3200m run and is close in the 800 as well. Lauren White and Kwynn Krause also look set to have a strong season. Lauren is a senior coming out for a second time. Kwynn is a sophomore and has been out since 6th grade. Both girls ran a lot over the summer and were already very strong runners coming out of the spring Track season.

Team: Kwynn Krause (10), Madalyn MIller(8)

All Conference First Team: MaKenzie WestphalConference Champion

Boys: 4th as a team

Honorable Mention: Alex Kleve(19), Wyatt Jans (17) and Luke Cahill(14)

Sections:

Girls: 8th as a team with Mackenzie Westphal in 4th as an individual.

Boys: 13th as a team with Wyatt Jans our top runner at 43rd as an individual.

There are some really strong cross country teams in the conference. Marshall is always competitive on both the boys and girls sides, and the Worthington boys are very good also. In our section, Faribault is strong on both sides, along with a number of teams on the girls who will be competitive. I think the Winona boys are a strong favorite to be section 1AA champs.

BY THE NUMBERS:

Girls: 7 JWP + -___ WEM, one senior

Boys: 2 JWP + ___WEM, no seniors.

State: Mackenzie Westphal finished in 73rd.

WEM/JWP’s Makenzie Westphal. (file photo/ southernminn.com)

Owatonna’s Jack Sorenson (right) runs next to graduated teammate David Smith during the 2022 Big 9 Conference Championships. Sorenson looks to be a key piece of the boys lineup this fall. (file photo/ southernminn.com)

WEM/JWP’s Wyatt Jans runs. (file photo)

Owatonna’s Leyton Williams (957) leads teammate Jack Sorenson (965) and a runner from Rochester Mayo during the 2022 Section 1AAA meet. Williams will be one of three captains for the boys team this fall. (file photo/southernminn.com)

KenyonWanaming/ ZumbrottaMazeppa Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach: Jared Andring, 2nd year as head coach (head track coach at Z-M for 20 years)

ROSTER:

Owatonna’s Kendra Melby crosses the finish line during the 2022 Class AAA state championship meet at St. Olaf College. Melby returns to Owatonna after being a first-time state qualifier as a freshman. (file photo/southernminn.com)

Owatonna Girls Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach: Dan Leer, 18th year

Assistant coaches: Tasheena Cooke, Katie Randall

ROSTER:

Carsyn Brady, 12; Emily Clark, 11; Sophia Cook, 10; Anna Cox, 12; Annelies Debruin, 11; Julia Kess, 9; Anna Knoll, 11; Kiley Knudson, 12; Kendra Melby, 10; Amal Mohamed, 10; Ella Mollenhauer, 11; Alexis

Norbeck, 10; Sophia Qualley, 9; Isabella Schultz, 11; Ella Seykora, 9; Paige Thompson, 10; Ava Wilker, 9; Theresa Wunderlich, 11; Ella Zylstra, 11; Raelynn Doyon, 7; Regan Drever, 7; Tenley Gentz, 7; Emma Hess, 7; Leah Leckner, 8; Chloe Millar, 7; Raegann Mitchell, 8; Clara Sennott, 8; Jaycie Smith, 7; Molly Thamert, 7; Abigail Thiel, 7

KEY PLAYERS:

Key varsity returners: Senior

Owatonna’s Carsyn Brady (3) leads a group of runners during the 2022 Class AAA state championship meet at St. Olaf College. Brady returns to Owatonna as a multiple-time state qualifier. (file photo/southernminn. com)

Carsyn Brady (4 state meet appearances, 1 big 9 title), Soph. Kendra Melby (state meet appearance last year; All-Conference), 8th grader Clara Meier (wonderful rookie season last year), 8th grader Leah Leckner (another excellent rookie year last year, All-Conference last year), Senior Anna Cox (coming off an injury-plagued season; (all conference; state meet appearance 2021); Soph. Ava Cox (varsity runner last year).

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Soph. Naomi Delarosa had a wonderful track season last year and has looked great all summer--watch for her to impress early in the season. We have some talented younger runners that are going to push our top kids as well.

2022 RECAP

Placed 3rd in the conference meet and the section meet. Missed going to State as a team by 3 points. Carsyn Brady and

Kendra Melby ran in the Class AAA state meet.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

Going into the season we are looking at competing for a Big 9 title and those top places in the section meet.

COMPETION:

Northfield and Century will be tough again. The conference will go through them. Mankato West is always decent too. Section competition-Farmington, Lakevilles, Northfield, Century, us. It will all come down to that day.

BY THE NUMBERS:

45-50ish total athletes

15 - letter winners

3 - seniors

K-W boys and girls: Brian Jacobson, Holly Carlstrom, Charlie Werner, Lizzy Peterson and Daniel Peterson

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35

the top two returners from last year’s team they will be leading a young and hungry Owatonna Boys CC Team.

Team Captains: Leyton Williams, Henry Hilgendorf, Nate Seykora

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

There will be many young contributors to the varsity team this year that I expect will be changing throughout the year on a weekly basis. A lot of young guys are stepping up and fighting for the varsity spots.

2022 RECAP

As a team, Owatonna took 3rd in the conference with 2 AllConference runners and 4th as a team in the section with one state individual qualifier.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

This will be the first year in seven years that we have not had Natasha Sortland on the team and we lost a lot of other seniors as well, so it will definitely be a different team this year.

We are really young but have a ton of talent on the team. Some of our kids have put a lot of miles on this summer.

finish in the top 2 teams in the conference and section along with having two runners in the top 15 of the section meet.

COMPETION:

Mankato East is a heavy favorite to win the conference and then Winona and Rochester Mayo have very competitive teams returning from last year. The section favorites are Lakeville North and Lakeville South and then Rochester Mayo returning a very strong team as well.

BY THE NUMBERS:

We have a huge middle school team and a lot of incoming freshmen, but a solid group of seniors that can help guide them as we continue to build up the team.

6 – Seniors

2 – Juniors

4 – Sophomores

2023

SEASON OUTLOOK:

The goal as a team is to try to

9 – Freshman

Medford Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach: Dave Bon, 10th year

Assistant coach: Cassie Tegmeier, 1st year

ROSTER:

Girls

Isabel Miller, 12; Addison

O’Connor, 12; Lydia Heidersheit, 11; Clara Thurnau, 11; Ashlin Havumaki, 10; Avery Arndt, 9; Amelia Fitzgerald, 9; Madison Murphy, 9; Megan Tegmeier, 9; Zeah Weise, 9; Aurora Heintz, 8; Claire Gibbons, 7; Katherine Capello, 7; Chloe McCarthy, 7; Gabriella Salazar-Sharp, 7

NRHEG Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach: Larry Nydegger, 1st year (Assistant coach since 2016)

ROSTER:

Annabelle Petsinger, 12; Holly Bartness, 10; Madison Corkill, 10; Jacon Karl, 10; Devon Nelton 10; Amelia Duryee 9; Jackson McGannon 8; Owen Flatland 7; Ella Jeno 7; Julieann Wobbrock 7

KEY PLAYERS:

Jacob Karl and Devon Nelton both finished in the top 5 in the conference meet last year. I expect them to contend for the individual title this season.

KEEP YOUR

EYE ON:

Holly Barness and Annabelle Petsinger are coming back from injury plagued seasons. I expect them to make an impact as runners and leaders of the team.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We are a small and quite young team. Our goals are to improve as competitors each week and have some high place finishers at the conference meet.

COMPETION:

I think the boys conference title is up for grabs since many strong runners have graduated. For the girls, I see Maple River and JWP as the top contenders.

BY THE NUMBERS:

4 - Letter winners

1 - Senior

Boys

John Hora, 10; Alex Thurnau, 10; Drake Stursa, 9; Mason Kolling, 8; Jackson Melchert, 8; Jacob Hora, 7; Joseph Hora, 7

KEY PLAYERS:

Girls

Isabel Miller (captain) and

Addison O’Connor are seniors this year and will form the core of the team. Clara Thurnau seems to get better every season, so I have high hopes for a breakout year from her.

I am also excited to see what happens with our group of experienced 9th graders, Avery Arndt, Amelia Fitzgerald, Madison Murphy, and Megan Tegmeier. This group has a lot of potential. Avery, especially, had a great track season and could surprise some people during cross country. Megan, Amelia, and Madison are all capable of being in our top 5, too.

Boys

John Hora is back for his 2nd year of Medford cross country and will most likely be our team leader. Alex Thurnau continues to improve and looks strong during early season practices.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON: Girls

Medford has a lot of new faces on the girls’s team. It is not uncommon in this sport for a new runner to show up and be competitive from the start. Lydia Heiderscheidt and Ashlin Havumaki are running cross country for the first time as a junior and a sophomore, respectively, after a good season of track last spring. We also have a newcomer, Zeah Weise, and a mix of returning and first-time junior high

runners Aurora Heintz, Claire Gibbons, Chloe McCarthy, Gabriella Salazar-Sharp, and Katherine Capello.

Boys

Drake Stursa has a lot of potential and will step up to the 5k distance full time this year after running JH most of last season. Mason Kolling is our only returning junior high runner. We also have three new faces: Jackson Melchert, Joseph Hora, and Jacob Hora. It would not surprise me if a couple of them are running varsity races by the end of the season.

2022 RECAP

Girls - Conference: 6th of 6 teams

Section: 19th of 19 teams

Boys - Conference: 6th of 6 teams

Section: 19th of 20 teams

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

Individual improvement is always the priority for the runners. Improvement from the start of the season to the end and from one season to the next is the main goal.

Girls

I am excited for the girls team this year. It is the largest group I have had in my coaching career. We have 6 returning athletes who lettered last year and a couple more returning

girls who will move up from junior high races to the full 5k distance. The team is big enough that there will be some competition for the top 7 spots. We also have a good group of first timers. I am optimistic when working with them. Watching them improve is always satisfying.

Boys

This is definitely a rebuilding year. We only have 2 returning letter-winners and 7 boys total, including junior high athletes. I am hopeful a couple of the junior high runners will race in the varsity events to allow us to compete as a team. Cross country is both a team sport and an individual sport, so even if we do not have a scoring team, the runners will continue to improve.

COMPETION:

Maple River boys and girls won the conference meet last year. They will be the ones we will watch this season.

BY THE NUMBERS:

Girls:

15 - Athletes

6 - Returning letter winners

2 - Seniors

Boys:

7 - Athletes

6 - Returning letter winners

0 - Seniors

NRHEG’s Devon Nelton (left) and Jacob Karl (right) were All-Conference First Team runners for boys cross country during the 2022 season. (file photo/ southernminn.com)

NRHEG’s Annabelle Petsinger was an All-Conference Honorable Mention for girls cross country during the 2022 season. (file photo/southernminn.com)

Medford’s Addison O’Connor (1598) and Amelia Fitzgerald (1594) run alongside each other during the 2022 NRHEG Invitational. (file photo/southernminn.com)

Blooming Prairie Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach: John Bruns, 25th season

Assistant coach: Ryan Slack, 4th season

ROSTER:

Boys

Ben Riley, 12; Derek Kubicek, 12; Tyler Forystek, 12; Breckin Cochlin, 12; Will Sunde, 11; Drew Reinke, 10; Tyler Anderson, 10; Isaac Fort, 8; Mason Peterson, 7; Jackson Olson, 7; Justin Olson, 7

Girls

Rachel Winzenburg, 12; Lily Schammel, 12; Anna Haberman, 12; Sophie Thomas, 12; Gloria Hernandez, 9; Sophia Esplan, 9; Haley McIntosh, 8; Bella Romeo, 8

KEY PLAYERS:

Returning Letter Winners:

Boys: Tyler Forystek (2x HM AllConference), Will Sunde, Breckin Cochlin, Ben Riley, Drew Reinke, Tyler Anderson

Girls:

Gloria Hernandez (Conference Champion 2021, AllConference 2022, MVP 2022), Rachel Winzenburg, Lily Schammel, Anna Haberman

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Newcomers:

Boys: Derek Kubicek (12), Mason Peterson (7), Jackson Olson (7), Justin Olson (7)

Girls: Sophie Thomas (12), Bella Romeo (8)

2022 RECAP

The boys were 2nd in the conference by a mere 3 points. We lost a big group of seniors who had a huge part in our success as a team. This season we have some young up and coming runners along with a few experienced runners who should be competitive in the conference again this year. The girls were 4th in the conference last year. We lost several runners who had a ton of experience to graduation. We do return one of the top runners in the conference (Gloria Hernandez) and a few young runners which should help us compete as a team.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We have a great group this year with 19 athletes out for the team. Many of them worked very hard in the weight room this summer and are a lot stronger. It will be fun to watch this off-season work pay off this season.

Boys: Even with the graduation losses from last year, we are very excited for this group. We have a nice mix of experience and youth which will make it fun. As the season goes on and we get closer to our big meets it will be fun to watch what this group can accomplish.

Girls: We are going to be somewhat inexperienced at the varsity level this year, but we do have some girls who worked very hard this summer and it will be fun to watch their progress.

Faribault Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach: Mark Bongers, Anne Pientka

Assistant coach: Julie Longshore ROSTER: Boys Ethan Amundson, 12; James

Hoisington, 12; Dustin Boyd, 11; Andrew Flicek, 12; Erick DeLeon Maldonado, 9; Mitchell Gibbs, 9; Carsen Kramer, 11; Darby LaCanne, 11; Tegan Miller, 9; Liam O’Connor, 9; Brandon Petricka, 10; Matthew Volkmuth, 8; Gabriel Hoisington, 11.

Girls

Brynn Beardsley, 9; Brooklyn Becker, 10; Lauren Bittenbender, 8; Shae Battles, 10; Gabby Boevers, 10; Sigrid Holmgren, 9; Nora Cordova, 8; Nell Gibbs,

10; Cecilia Hoisington, 9; Claire Linnemann, 9; Aubrie Newport, 9; Lorelei Weston, 10.

KEY PLAYERS:

Boys: James Hoisington (captain) and Ethan Amundson (captain)

Girls: Brynn Beardsley (captain), Claire Linneman and Cecelia Hoisington

They have been working very hard and they should improve all season long.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON: Brooklyn Becker (new to the girls) and Liam O’Connor (new to the boys)

2022 RECAP

The girls finished second in section, went to state and finished 15th there.

The boys finished sixth in the conference.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

The girls have all but one of last year’s runners coming back and are planning for a very good year. The girls have plans on going back to state and make the top five there.

The boys have many runners coming back this year and plan on hopping into the top three or four of the section, with hopes of a state berth.

COMPETITION:

Northfield, Faribault and Winona are the top teams in the area for girls

Northfield and

top

Winona are the

boys teams, with Faribault currently a few spots behind.

The Blooming Prairie boys and girls cross country teams competed at the 2022 Gopher Conference Championship. (Photo courtesy of John Bruns/Blooming Prairie Cross Country)

Faribault’s Brynn Beardsley crosses the finish line at the 2022 Big 9 championships. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Blooming Prairie’s Gloria Hernandez made the AllConference First Team for girls cross country during the 2022 season. Hernandez returns to the Awesome Blossoms as one of the top returning runners in the conference and section. (file photo/southernminn. com)

Faribault Falcons junior James Hoisington, right, congratulates a teammate at the finish line area at the Owatonna Brooktree Golf Course after a 2022 race. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Northfield Boys Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach: Janet Smith, 18th year of coaching cross country, sixth with the Northfield program and second as the boys head coach

Assistant coach: Craig Cardinal, 5 years

Volunteer Assistant coach: Scott Broughton, 2 years

ROSTER:

LIAM AILABOUNI 11; JASON ALDORFER 10; ISAAC ALLADIN 12;

ALEXANDER ALTERMATT 10; WILLIAM ARGABRIGHT 12; BRANDON ATZINGER 7; FLETCHER AYLIN 10; WILLIAM BARAGARY 10; MAX BECKMAN 9; LIAM

BEHRENS 8; MAXWELL BOARDMAN 10; SAMUEL BORGERDING 7; ODIN

BOWEN 10; NATHAN

BROUGHTON 8; CARSON BUDIN 8; SOREN

CHRISTOPHERSON 7; ODIN CHRISTOPHERSON 7; GRIFFITH DAHLE 12; CAMERON DAVID 11; ASHER

ENGLE 9; THEODORE

ENNIS 7; OWEN ENSRUD

7; ALEXANDER FLORY 7; MAX FRANK 11; SAMUEL FROEHLE 10; GRAYSON GRAY 9; MATTHEW

HAEFNER 10; JACKSON

HESSIAN 12; JADEN

HIETALA 12; BENJAMIN JERDEE 8; AKSEL JOHNSON

8; LOGAN JOYCE 10; HENRY

KEANE 10; CONNER KOBES

11; SIMON LIPPERT 12; EVAN LOE 12; CAMERON

MELNYCHUK 11; SOREN

MURPHY PEARSON 11; EVAN MUSICANT 11; EMMETT NORRIE 11; ZACHARY PERKINS 8; ISAAC SCHLEIF

10; NOAH SCHLOMANN

Northfield Girls Cross Country

COACHES:

Head coach: Nichole Porath, seventh year; two-time Big 9 Conference Coach of the Year in 2021, 2022.

Assistant coaches: Chad Claybaugh, first year with Northfield. Was named MN Boys AAA Assistant Coach of the year for his efforts with Lakeville North in 2022; Read Gleason, 2nd year; Molly Gleason, 1st year; Eva Reinicke, 1st year

ROSTER:

Allia Doherty, 7; Carys Gordinier, 7; Siri Bowen, 7; Everlee Louvar, 7; Makayah Petricka, 8; Catherine Foxhoven, 8; Addie Perkins, 8; Thisbe Jothen, 8; Brea Borgerding, 8; Brynn Bahler, 8; Maia Valentyn, 8; Peyton Quaas, 9; Claire Forbord, 9; Gracyn Mosley, 9; Eleanor

Groll, 9; Abby Pape, 9; Ellie Fox, 9; Bella Christopherson, 9; Katarina Stoufis, 9; Mae Berglund, 9; Erin Klaers, 9; Miriel Ennis, 9; Caley Graber, 10; Victoria Hemmah, 10; Maggie Roffers, 10; Addison Enfield, 11; Claire Casson, 11; Anna Forbord, 11; Abby Borgerding, 11; Ani Gottfried, 11; Hannah Pape, 11; Naomi Valentyn, 11; Lily Nagy, 11; Lucy Graham, 11; Mackenzie Perkins, 11; Clara Menssen, 12; Nora Klaers, 12; Allie Hoffert, 12; Erica Klein, 12; Sophia Vantries, 12

KEY PLAYERS:

We return all our scoring varsity squad except Claire Casson, who is studying abroad for the year.

Peyton Quaas, ninth grade, is entering her third cross country season. She was our MVP last year and looks

even stronger this season. Addison Enfield, a junior, is entering her third year for us as well after a breakthrough XC season last year, running sub 19:30, and furthering her success on the track with a 5:21 mile.

Makayah Petricka, an eighth grader, was typically our No. 6 or No. 7 runner last year as a seventh grader. She will be one to watch this year. She is coming off a spring where she set the No. 1 alltime Northfield girls middle school mile time in track. This summer, she was right up there with Peyton during a summer 5k race.

Sisters Anna and Claire Forbord both look like they will start the year where they left off at the end of last season, having put in great work over the summer.

7; GRANT SELCHOW 10; CADEN SKLUZACEK 10; CARTER STEENBLOCK 12; AYDIN STORY 10; WESTON SWEENEY 10; HENRY THORKELSON 8; JOHN TRACY 9; TRISTAN VERMILYEA 9; CARSTEN WALTER 12; LINUS WILHELM 7

KEY PLAYERS:

Soren Murphy Pearson will be an 11th grader this season. He was Big 9 Honorable Mention All Conference last year and had a great spring track season (his first track season). He looks even faster and even more determined to compete well in the upcoming season.

Other varsity returning runners include seniors and captains Evan Loe and Carter Steenblock, along with sophomores Fletcher Alyin and Isaac Schlief. Three more seniors who are looking to have standout seasons are Jaden Hietala (captain), Isaac Alladin, and Jackson Hessian

who all put in a lot of summer miles.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Cameron David (junior), Conner Kobes (junior), Jason Aldorfer (sophomore), John Tracy (freshman) were strong JV athletes for us last season and look to break into the varsity mix as the season progresses. You also just never know who else may have a breakout season from getting stronger and faster over the last year of running track and field in the spring and putting in the summer mileage.

2022 RECAP

Last year, we had almost half of our team running its 5K race under 20 minutes, which was a huge improvement in overall speed from recent seasons. In 2022, the varsity boys team placed 7th out of 12 at the Conference meet and JV placed third. At the Section 1AAA meet, the varsity placed

fifth out of eight, and JV placed fourth.

When we took all the seniors out of the section meet from all the schools, our underclassmen competing would have placed third. So we are very excited for what this season will bring with our rising varsity runners.

Nathan Amundson (2023 Senior) qualified individually for the State meet and will be competing this year in cross country and track for the UMD Bulldogs

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

As a team, we are looking to finish in the top third of the conference. Since Northfield is moving to 1AA, instead of competing at the 1AAA level this season, we will be able to compete for one of the top two spots in the section and qualify for the state meet as a team. We have a very good shot at placing first or second and making this goal come to fruition.

COMPETITION:

Winona took first in the 1AA section last year and second in the Big 9 Conference, so they will be our biggest competition. Albert Lea placed second in the section and fifth in the Conference, but will be losing many of their varsity to graduation. So the Raiders will be looking to have a great chance to compete for a state bid.

BY THE NUMBERS:

53 - total runners

8 - returning letter winners

9 - seniors

16 - middle schoolers

Caley Graber, who doubles as a nationally ranked wrestler, has been our No. 1 runner the last two seasons, having qualified for the AAA state meet both years. Unfortunately,

she dislocated her ribs this summer so will be easing back into training and racing as she heals. Fortunately, she is as tough as they come, so we still expect big things from her.

Gracyn Mosley (ninth grade), Catherine Foxhoven (eighth grade), and Abby Borgerding (captain, junior) are looking

Northfield sophomore Soren Murphy Pearson, runs to an 18th-place finish at the 2022 Big 9 Conference cross country championships. (File photo/southernminn. com)

Northfield’s Peyton Quaas runs during a dual meet in her seventh-grade cross country season. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Northfield’s Evan Loe, front, runs to a personal record during the 2022 season. (File photo/southernminn. com)

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39

to run sub-20 by the end of the year as well, after they both logged more miles this summer than they ever have. Allia Doherty, an incoming 7th grader, may also be a contributor.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

I expect our seventh varsity spot to rotate, as our next 12-14 returners on the team have run near 22:00. Most AA teams would be happy to have that depth on their varsity squad, much less have that depth down to our 21st fastest girl. That gives some perspective on our depth. I wonder if our JV squad will be one of the strongest JV teams in class AA? There is really strong leadership there, too, so I think they will just continue to push boundaries. Led by Clara Menssen and Nora Klaers, both captains, as well as Ani Gottfried, Eleanor Groll, and Hannah Pape, our JV squad will be just as fun to watch as our varsity.

2022 RECAP

Girls varsity repeated as Big 9

Conference champions. Girls junior varsity also won their conference race. This has only happened three other times in cross country history (nearly 50 years). Girls varsity placed second at the 1AAA section meet, qualifying for state for the first time since 2001.

Girls placed 10th at the MSHSL AAA State Meet. All Conference included Caley Graber, Peyton Quaas, Claire Casson, Anna Forbord, Addison Enfield. Only 2nd time in school history to have five girls earn All Conference honors. All Conference honorable mentions included Claire Forbord, Makayah Petricka. Also named Academic Gold team.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We moved into class AA this year from AAA last year. On paper, we come in as the seventh fastest team. But what I’ve loved about coaching this group of ladies is that they love chasing big goals. There is the possibility that we could finish in the top three at state this year. It will take everything we have, but I like our odds. Northfield cross country has never finished on the podium at state

(boys or girls), so it would be truly historic.

COMPETITION:

The move to AA will hopefully give our squad an opportunity to compete for a podium spot at the State Meet this year. How close to the top of the podium will come down to how well we can push our pack closer to 19:00 and hopefully a number of girls go under 19:00. We have our work cut out for us. To help us get there we will be heading to two new meets this year, Eden Prairie and Alexandria, allowing us to see even stronger AAA and AA competition, and hopefully helping push our pack a little closer to those top teams’ packs.

We hope to repeat as Big 9 Varsity and JV champions. Our section is not as competitive with the class change, which will be nice. Last year we put so much into winning conference and advancing to state that we were really gassed going into the State meet. This year we can focus on state.

BY THE NUMBERS:

40 - total athletes

5 - seniors

girls tennis

No. 60 Addison Enfield took 81st place for Northfield at the state championship meet at St. Olaf College in 2022. (File photo/ southernminn.com)

Owatonna Girls Tennis

COACHES:

Head coach: Curt Matejcek, 27th year

Assistant coaches: Chris Herzog, 5th year; Zach Waletich, 4th year

KEY PLAYERS:

The team returns 3 of the 4 singles positions from last season’s team.

Emma Herzog, 11th, played #2

sgls 13-9 overall, 8-3 conf

Ellery Blacker, 11th, played #3

sgls 11-8 overall, 7-4 conf

Genevieve Froman, 10th, #4

sgls 9-10 overall 6-5 conf

Hannah Nelson doubles player 4-13 , 3-8

Lauren Nelson doubles player 5-12, 4-7

Jena Hanson doubles 2-1, 1-1

Haley McNett doubles 2-0, 1-0

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Patty

12; Emma Green, 12; Moriya Hamilton, 12

2022 RECAP

The team finished the season

with an overall record of 7-9 and a 6-5 conference record. 6 matches last season were decided by a 4-3 score.

In the 1st round of section play, the girls beat JM 4-3 before losing to No. 6 State ranked Lakeville South 7-0

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

Our goal is to improve our overall and conference record. We played in many close matches last season and hopefully we will have a little more experience to draw from. Another goal will be to continue to get better individually and as a team as the season progresses. With the graduation of 5 players from last year’s team we will have a lot of new and inexperienced players that will have to work through some early season jitters against some very competitive teams. This years team has 38 players out for the program

COMPETITION:

Rochester Mayo are conference and section favorites

Lakeville South and Lakeville North will be strong

Jo Procopio, 9; Harper Shives, 10; Greta Veldman, 8; Gabbi Navarro, 9; Ruby Garza,

Emma Herzog prepares to hit the ball during a 2022 match against Rochester John Marshall. Herzog returns as one of Owatonna’s top singles players. (file photo/southernminn.com)

Owatonna’s Genevieve Froman returns a shot during a 2022 match against Red Wing. Froman is a returning singles player for the Huskies. (file photo/ southernminn.com)

Faribault Girls Tennis

COACHES:

Head coach: Jeff Anderson, fifth year

Assistant coach: Robb Morris, second year

ROSTER:

Makia Bauer - 12; Stacie

Petricka - 12; Lindsay

Rauenhorst - 12; Hailey

Reuvers - 12; Naimo Abdi -

11; Grace Brazil - 11; Gabbie Temple - 11; Safia Adoch - 10; Bella Anderson - 10; Eva Martinez - 10; Leah Nowaczewski - 10; Isabella Pankonin - 10; Carmen

Puente - 10; Brianna Velazquez-Sanchez - 10; Beata Christianson - 9; Whitney Huberty - 9; Anika Sterling - 9; Lily Buffington - 8; Hannah Shepherd - 8; Allison Kramer - 7

KEY PLAYERS:

Fourteen of our 20 players are returning players and are expected to fill the top 10 spots for varsity. Working to determine who will be playing singles or doubles and what our lineup will be. Along with our top varsity players — Stacie Petricka, Lindsay Rauenhorst, Hailey Reuvers, and Grace

Brazil — we have a large group of sophomores and freshmen players that will continue to help the team.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Looking for Leah Nowaczewski, Anika Sterling, Beata Christianson, and Whitney Huberty to continue their improvement and help strengthen our Varsity this season.

2022 RECAP

Big 9, 0-11; lost in Section 1AA team tournament versus

Lakeville South; overall season record was 1-20.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

As always our team will focus on effort, attitude, and sportsmanship to continue to work on improving to become the best players we can be.

COMPETITION:

Mayo again will be the favorite in both the Big 9 and Section 1AA, along with the entire state. Faribault is looking to be competitive in the Big 9 against Albert Lea, Austin, Northfield, Red Wing and Winona and in Section 1AA against TCU, Stewartville, and Waseca.

BY THE NUMBERS:

20 - Total players

11 – Returning letter winners

4 – Seniors (three are captains)

3 – Juniors (one is a captain)

7 – Sophomores

3 - Freshmen

2 – Eighth graders

1 – Seventh grader

Northfield Girls Tennis

COACHES:

Head coach: Elisabeth Hurlbert, 30-plus years coaching, third year as co-head coach; Beth LaCanne, 20-plus years coaching, third year as co-head coach

JV coach: Lauren Weber, five years coaching, first year JV coach (NHS alumni)

ROSTER: Emily Beaham 12, Lindsey Clark 9, Brielle Condon

11, Anne Damas 9, Estella Freeman 10, Mayliegh Hnatyszyn 9, Meha Hnatyszyn

12, Shiann Hollins 10; Lauren Holz 12; Abby Kauffeld 9; Genevieve Knutson 9; Grace LaCanne 12; Kate LaCanne 10;

Taylor Lace 10; Alyssa Malecha 10; Miriam Malosh 10; Cora McBroom 12; Molly Merritt 11; Elsa Mitchell 10; Ashton Morrison 10; Katie Nesseth 10; Sofia Nystuen 11; Izzy Paulson 9; Madeline Percy 9; Paige Raleigh 10; Maia Richardson 9; Kate Sand 10; Elianna Simi 11; Brooke Slum 12; Levi Stier 11; Gwen Tapper 9; Sophia Weed 12; Vanessa Winter 11; Emma Wood 9; Shaina Ylinen 10

KEY PLAYERS: Grace LaCanne (12), Cora

McBroom (12), Meha Hnatyszyn (12), Lauren Holz (12)

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Maia Richardson, Emily Beaham, Elsa Mitchell, Kate Sand, Lindsey Clark and Izzy Paulson round out the varsity to start the season.

2022 RECAP

Big 9: 7-4; overall 9-5; lost to Rochester Mayo, Mankato East, Mankato West, Winona.

Our team has received the Gold Academic award from MSHSL.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We are expecting great things from new players as well as our largest team to date. We expect to be competitive in most of our matches. We must work hard for our victories. We are anticipating a great group of kids.

Faribault’s Stacie Petricka will lead the team from the No. 1 singles spot. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Northfield’s Grace LaCanne lofts a return during a Section 1AA tournament match in 2021. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Hailey Reuvers is one of the captains of the 2023 Faribault girls tennis team. (Chris Reineke/ southernminn.com)

No. 4 singles player Cora McBroom takes a swing. (File photo/southernminn.com)

St. Peter Girls Tennis

COACHES:

Head coach: Aaron Rothenberger, 14th season as HC (17th season overall at St. Peter)

Assistant coaches: Bob Messerli, 7th year, and Bridget Schmidtke, 5h year

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Brielle Romasiewicz, Ella Dirks, Natalie Salfer, and Kady Thoms

2022 RECAP

Waseca Girls Tennis

COACHES:

Head coach: Kyle Collins 25th year

Assistant coaches: Trish Mercier, 6th year, returns after 7 years, and Abbe Hoehn, 1st year

KEY PLAYERS: Annika Southworth, Rhyan Holmgren (captain), Maddie Kamm, Zetta Haugen (captain), Kali Erickson, Nora Whipps and Kylie Southworth

18-2, Big South Conference East Division Champs, Big South Conference Champions, Section 2AA Final Four for the second year in a row, lost to AA State Champions Minnetonka for the second year in a row. Annika Southworth 4th place at the 2AA Section Individual tournament, Rhyan Holmgren

and Maddie Kamm 4th at the 2AA Section Individual Doubles tournament)

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We have many returning starters mixed with some young up and coming players that will fill in the vacant spots from last season’s squad. We will be without Kamm for part of the season, with many difficult matches to start the season. The tell-tale sign of our team is how we rise to the challenges we face, especially

without her and against difficult opponents, especially in our subsection.

COMPETITION:

BSC favorites: St. James. Section 2AA favorite in the South subsection is Prior Lake. Favorite to win the entire 2AA section tournament is Minnetonka as well as the favorite for winning the state tournament again.

BY THE NUMBERS:

20 - Total players 3348, 2655, 2479, and 606the enrollment of Minnetonka (#1), Prior Lake (#3), Eden Prairie (#8) and St. Peter (#124) respectively. All four schools were in the Section 2AA Final Four for the second year in a row.

42 - number of current participants 7-12th grade for girls tennis. One of the largest teams in the last 20 years.

17 - number of teams Section 2AA

7 - Seniors

6 - Returning starters

2 - Senior Captains

1 Goal to play to the best of our ability for our team with excellent effort, sportsmanship, and attitude!

Both were on Varsity for 5 or 6 years.

Miranda Breck (11-7) played 2nd doubles and was a 3 year letterwinner.

Also, Lauren Drexler (154) at 3rd doubles moved to Wisconsin.

Our team goals: 1) .500 record

2) Be a top seed in our section 1A 3) We hope to finish in the top half of the East division in our Conference.

COMPETITION:

We have been moved down from Section 1AA to 1A this year, moving from the big schools to the smaller schools. New teams in our section 1A are: Cannon Falls, Lake City, Winona Cotter, Rochester Lourdes, St. Croix Prep and Waseca.

Lourdes will be the team to beat in the section and St. Peter in the conference.

BY THE NUMBERS:

16 - total players

6 - letter winners

KEY PLAYERS:

Sr. Sarah Haley played 3rd singles (12-7 record), Will play 1 or 2 singles this year.

Jr. Takya Schoenrock played 4th singles (11-8 record), Will play 1 or 2 singles this year.

Jr. Mia Kanewischer played 1 and 2 doubles last year (9-9)

Jr. Addie Pfeifer played 1 and 2 doubles last year (9-9)

Soph Maddy Benson played #2 doubles last year (11-8)

Soph Paige Dufault played #3 doubles last year (13-4)

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Sr. Elizabeth Roessler, Jr. Ashton Jenzen, Jr. Esme Pearce, Soph. Vivian Mader, Soph. Tailyn Kaput.

2022 RECAP

We had a fantastic season in 2022, finishing 14-4, after having a record of 4-14 in

2021. We were seeded No. 6 at the end of the season in Section 1AA and lost in the first round to No. 11 Red Wing 4-3.

We also had a record of 4-1 in the Big South East, finishing second to St. Peter.

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We have some big shoes to fill with the graduation of Sarah Robbins (No. 1 singles) and Cece Huttemier (No. 2 singles).

2 - seniors

5- Juniors

7- Sophomores

2- Freshmen

Rhayn Holmgren. (file photo)

Waseca’s Sarah Haley. (file photo)

Zetta Haugen. (file photo)

Takya Schoenrock. (file photo)

Le Sueur-Henderson Girls Tennis

COACHES:

Head coaches: Cassie Wilke, 1st year head coach

Assistant coaches: Volunteer assistant with the varsity- Ginger Nesbit, and JV

coach Jenny Miller, 2nd year and Middle school coach Jacob Hageman, 1st year

ROSTER: Maggie Froehlich, senior, Brianna Jones, senior,

Koreyann Straub, junior, Lauren Krause, junior, Maddy Skelly, junior, Roslee Bravo, junior, Carlin Straub, sophomore, Greta Straub, sophomore, Ava Becker, sophomore, Charity Koller,

sophomore, Addison Fahey, sophomore, Alice Breaker, sophomore, Natalie Haemig, sophomore, Teagan Graham, freshman, Sallie Nesbit, freshman.

KEY PLAYERS:

I have high expectations for Koreyann Straub this year. She has put a lot of work in and could play really well at either singles or doubles. I am looking forward to trying her in a few different spots starting next week and see where the magic is! Lauren Krause and Maggie Froehlich are consistent, good players and I anticipate they will have a positive impact on the season as well.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Ava Becker played on the varsity team last year but she put in a ton of work in the off season and really has surprised me during the first few days of practice. I anticipate her being one of our top players for the next few years!

2022 RECAP

Last season we had two seniors Ella Nesbit and Bella Holloway finish fourth in the section tournament in doubles. Senior, Chloe Brandt finished as the singles section champion and went on to compete at state. It was a huge loss to graduate

four, hard working seniors this past year but we’re ready to get to work and have a great season!

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We have been faced with some unexpected challenges this year. Our home tennis courts are crumbling and unfortunately we will be unable to host any home varsity matches. It was difficult news for our team but these girls are resilient and will give it their all on the road this year. This is also the first year with a new coach. Linda Seaver was the head coach for the past 36 years. The coaching change in itself is a huge transition for the girls and for the program. I am very proud and honored with the way our players have embraced the me and all of these changes! My goals for this year is to get some team wins on the road and make it back to the section tournament.

COMPETITION:

Hard to tell right now. All I know is we have some amazing talent and I am looking forward to seeing what the season brings!

graders Destynee Wolff and Reagan Steffen.

2023 SEASON

OUTLOOK:

We graduated 3 senior letter winners. We have many new and returning players who have been putting in a lot of work in the off season, and it is showing early on in practices. With their continued effort and hard work, this team will definitely surprise some of their competition.

BY THE NUMBERS:

9 returning letter winners

Tri-City United/ Cleveland Girls Tennis

COACHES:

Head coaches: Diane Tiede, 3rd year

Assistant coach: Sarah Adams, 20th year

ROSTER:

Ellie Adams (8), Anne Cooper (11), Cristina Cruz (10), Avery David (7), Mylie Dylla (11), Lucy Fleek (10), Ava Flintrop (11), Morgan Gjerstad (12),

Cicely Goettl (8), Caleigh Hoefs (10), Madelyn Hoefs (8), Camryn Holicky (8), Hallie Holicky (8), Addison Houn (11), Avery Lerfald (11), Lily Martin (12), Dakota Meadows (10), Samantha Odenthal (11), Alice Schroeder (12), Adison Schroer (12), Becca Sladek (12), Reagan Steffen (8), Maisie Teigen (8), Kenzington Wilmes (10), Destynee Wolff (8).

KEY PLAYERS:

Ellie Adams (8th grade) returns at singles. She played the majority of her matches last year at one singles, and I look for her to have a breakout season. Anne Cooper and Ava Flintrop will be starting out at one doubles this year. Last season they played at two. Becca Sladek and Alice Schroeder are also returning at two doubles. They really had a nice season last year, receiving

MVP award, along with Sami Tiede (graduated).

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Addison Schroer (12), Avery

Lerfald (11), Addison Houn (11), and Lily Martin (12) all had limited varsity playing time last year, but are showing that they are ready to compete at a higher level this season. Also keep your eye on eight

5 seniors

25 total players

Koreyann Straub makes a play at the net for the Giants. (file photo)

Ellie Adams. (file photo)

Lauren Krause defends the back line. (file photo)

Reagan Steffen. (file photo)

girls swim & Dive

NEW VARSITY LETTERERS:

Grace Timm

Sophia Ruffing

Deszrae Jandert

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

I’m still learning the strengths of the girls and trying to foster some new flier and breaststrokers while trying to not pigeon hole the junior and seniors

COMPETITION:

St. Peter Swim and Dive

COACHES:

Head coaches: Vance Macercklein, 1st year as head coach, 11th year coaching swimming

Dive coach: Rowan Moreau, 1st year as dive coach

Assistant coaches: Jen Denzer, 4th year, Lena Coe, 1st year, and Olivia Denzer, 1st year

ROSTER:

Hannah Denzer, 12th, Isabell Johnson, 12th, Laura Klatt, 12th, Grace Timm, 12th, Paige Wachal, 12th, Shaley Sarbano, 12th, Eve Zimmerman, 12th,Sarah Coe, 11th, Addison Landsom, 11th, Trista Landsom, 11th, Aamista Mass, 11th, Sophia Ruffing, 11th, Cecily Winterfeldt, 11th, Deszrae Jandert, 10th, Ashlyn Loula, 10th, Lydia Yost, 10th, Miata Erickson, 9th, Jadyn Henrriquez, 9th,

Adela Madson, 9th, Annika Stone, 9th, Nevaeh Swanson, 9th, Abigail Ramirez, 8th, Josie Scrabeck, 8th, Ella Twaddle, 8th, Chloe Yauger, Amelia Abels, 7th, Skyla Dale, 7th, Avery Haggenmiller, 7th, Himalaya Harrison, 7th, Finnigan Hill, 7th, Kaelyn Loula, 7th, Martha Johnson, 7th.

KEY PLAYERS:

Hannah Denzer for 200 and 500 free

Tri-City United/ Le Sueur-Henderson Swim and Dive

Sarah Coe for 50 and 100 free Adela Madson, back Trista Landsom, fly Paige Wachal, breast Laura Klatt, diving

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Nevaeh Swanson

Josie Scrabeck

2022 RECAP

Section 1A ranking: 7th

True Team ranking: 6th

State: Hanna Denzer 2nd in free and 7th in 500 free

Now that New Prague is out of the section I think Mankato East is our largest competition due to their depth. This year might be below where we can be as I’m still learning the ropes as a new head coach, but we have a strong seventhgrade class and fingers crossed we can continue to get similar numbers next year to replace our strong upperclassmen.

BY THE NUMBERS:

31 athletes

16 varsity letter winners

7 seniors

6 juniors

3 sophomores

5 fresh

4 8th graders

7 7th graders

COACHES:

Head coaches: Kristen Munden - 7th year

Assistant coach: Maggie Dayvis- 6th year

ROSTER:

Captains: Mallorie Plut, Amanda Prigge, Kaylee Berger

Emma Krenik: 7, Kaylee

Rezac: 7, Ella McGrath: 8, Grace Harmeyer: 8, McKenna

Fredrickson: 8, Makaya Hauer

8, Liddia Labs: 9, Madelyn

Ryan: 9, Marcela Ruiz Sustaita:

9, Heidi Schendel: 9, Addison

Meili: 9, Teagan Valek: 9, Ella Schmiesing: 10, Breanna

Erickson: 10, Lily Traxler: 10, Kendra Westphal: 10,

Julia Odenthal: 11, Tahlia Buckingham: 11, Olivia Onken: 11, Cecelia Jones Labs: 11, Amanda Prigge: 12, Lyllian Caponi: 12, Kaylee Berger: 12, Mallorie Plut: 12.

Hannah Denzer (center) is flanked by a pair of Visitation Seniors after finishing second in the 200 yard freestyle. (file photo)

Ella Schmiesing (far) makes her entry into the water in the 100 yard breaststroke state championship race. (file photo)

Laura Klatt maintains her form during a dive. (file photo)

Kaylee Berger. (file photo)

Juniors: Jillian Huberty, Morgan Klumb, Lydia Lueken, Hallie Taghon

Freshman: Olivia Fisher

2022 RECAP

Finished 11th in the Big Nine, ninth in Section 1A; Miller Munoz earned Big 9 AllConference in diving

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

As always, our main goal is to improve on what we have already accomplished but also to have fun as we work hard together to achieve our goals.

Faribault Girls Swim and Dive

COACHES:

Head coaches: Charlie Fuller, 36th year coaching girls swim and diving team

Assistant coaches: Bethany Fuller, seventh year; Corine Siepel, second year

ROSTER: Cecilia Azelton, Anne Azelton, Shiloh Bongers, Hattie Danberry, Izzie Dokkestul,

Olivia Fisher, Jillian Huberty, Morgan Klumb, Maiya

Kolterman, Lydia Lueken, Ainsley Luettel, Maggie Lund, Miller Munoz, Aubrey Smith, Hallie Taghon, Ella Wood, Bennett Wray-Raabolle, Anna

Yetzer

KEY PLAYERS:

Seniors and captains: Izzie

Dokkestul, Miller Munoz, Bennett Wray-Raabolle

COMPETITION:

Our numbers are down after the graduation of four seniors last year and losing two foreign exchange students. We’re excited about our season this year.

Owatonna Girls Swim and Dive

COACHES:

Head coaches: Isaiah Fuller, 12th season

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 44

KEY SWIMMERS:

Senior Mallorie Plut

Ella Schmiesing, State participant from last 2 seasons is ready to take on her competitors again.

Kendra Westphal LSH

Kaylee Berger LSH

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Lily Traxler on the diving board

MOVED ON:

Elizabeth Odenthal, Ellie

Assistant coaches: Peter Rhodes, 12th season; Kasey Anderson, 13th season; Tara

Sladek, Breanna Schroder, Maddie Rueger

2022 RECAP

What a year last year. Where to begin. We had two relay Podium finish at sectionals. 6th and 8th. Mallorie Plut placed top 16 at sectionals in her 100 fly. Ella Schmiesing placed secondand went to state in the 100 free. Ellie Sladek placed top 16 at sectionals in the 100 freestyle. Ella Schmiesing placed 1st and went to state in the 100 Breaststroke.

Our team as a whole placed 8th at sectionals out of 10th. This is where we have been the last 2 seasons!

Lammers, 5th Season

2023 SEASON

OUTLOOK:

Looking ahead to returning success and new successes from all the girls.

Conference record last season: Currently no conference affiliation

Having a repeat state meet competitor as well as a relay making it to state. Also, we’d love to see 3 relays at a minimum make it to the podium again at sectionals!

BY THE NUMBERS: 23 Girls

2-3 Divers

2 LSH athletes

ROSTER: Linden Aarsvold, 7; Kenzie Akers, 7; Avery Born, 7;

Vivienne Gomez, 7; Charlotte Hines, 7; Czarina Proft, 7;

CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

Isla Torabpour, 7; Harper

Tuchtenhagen, 7; Delaney Gomez, 8; Anna Hagenson,

Faribault’s Miller Munoz performs a back dive at the Section 1A championships in 2022. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Owatonna’s Vanessa Gonzalez swims in the 100 fly during the 2022 season. Gonzalez will serve as one of three captains for the girls team this fall. (file photo/ southernminn.com)

Owatonna’s Elice Tolman (left) is greeted by teammates Gabbie Poole (middle) and Arielle Thurber (right) after one of her dive attempts during the 2022 season. Tolman and Thurber are returning divers for the Huskies this fall. (file photo/ southernminn.com)

Faribault’s Bennett Wray-Raabolle swims during Wednesday’s Section 1A preliminaries. (File photo/ southernminn.com)

Aya Myint swims for the Northfield Gators in 2021. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Northfield Girls Swim and Dive

COACHES:

Head coaches: Kristi Kortuem and Brian Porter, second year

Assistant coaches: Matt Detjen, dive coach/assistant coach, third year; Kylie Sieben, dive coach, first year

ROSTER:

Swimmers: Seventh graders Bella Watne, Violet Connole, Audrey Brien. Eighth graders Riley Rinaldi, Greta Peterson, Hennessy Momberg, Aya

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45

8; Ainsley Halverson, 8; Mckenna Abrahams, 9; Ava Brekke, 9; Anunda Buttera, 9; Brooklyn Christianson, 9; Beverly Deranek, 9; Krin Eickhoff, 9; Afton Gomez, 9; Isabella Hines, 9; Kate Karsten, 9; Maya Miller, 9; Lily Prestegard, 9; Annika Slacter, 9; Dalila Spencer, 9; Allison Vandenbroeke, 9; Christina Bell, 10; Lainey Steckelberg, 10; Mya Dutton, 11; Mya Jans,

Haider. Ninth graders Camry Schuster, Eleanor Otting, Summer Moeller, Elizabeth McCormick, Edyth Malecha, Brooklyn Lyon, Addie Lloyd, Kaise Larsen, Greta Kortuem, Hollis Holden, Madelyn Hall, Belinda Brosseau, Mae Bowers, Natalie Barsness. Tenth graders Sydney Swedin, Sonja Smith, Ella Porter, Ella Holleran, Lydia Hershberger, Julia Feldhake, Emerson Carlson, Bella Bisel, Evie Bauer. Eleventh graders Keandra Trotman, Edith McLaughlin, Clare

11; Kalleigh Malecha, 11; Afton Torabpour, 11; Shelby Born, 12; Vanessa Gonzalez, 12; Britta Henderson, 12; Laken Meier, 12; Arielle Thurber, 12; Elice Tolman, 12

KEY PLAYERS:

Vanessa Gonzalez (AllConference last year), Laken Meier and Mya Dutton (All-Conference honorable mention)

Liebl, Ella Krupicka, Nora Kortuem, Maria Hegland. Twelfth graders Aya Myint, Alivia Kortuem, Josia Hauck, Charlotte Flory, Leah Enedy, Quinlyn Edwards, Maren Coudret.

Divers: Seventh grader Holly Gray. Twelfth graders Erika Nesseth, Inga Johnson, Whitney Gray.

KEY PLAYERS: This year, the Gators have a powerful group of athletes

Team Captains: Vanessa Gonzalez, Shelby Born, Afton Torabpour

KEEP AN EYE ON:

Those three for sure but we have a couple other that are big contributor- Kalleigh Malecha in IM and breastroke, Krin Eickhoff (mid distance), Arielle Thurber and Elice Tolman other senior divers (very solid group with Kate Karsten right behind them),

Northfield swim and dive’s Josie Hauck and Nora Kortuem hug after finishing first and second in their heat of the 200-yard individual medley prelims in 2022. (File photo/southernminn.com)

returning. Every swimmer/ diver that scored points for us in the Section 1AA meet returns to the lineup. Be on the lookout to see great things from: 12th grade: Quinn Edwards, Leah Enedy, Charlotte Flory, Whitney Gray, Josie Hauck, Inga Johnson, Alivia Kortuem, and Aya Myint; 11th grade: Maria Hegland, Nora Kortuem, Clare Liebl, and Edy McLaughlin; 10th grade: Ella Holleran, Ella Porter, and Sonja Smith; ninth grade: Mae Bowers, Hollis Holden, Greta Kortuem, and Addie Lloyd.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON:

Seniors: Maren Coudret and Erika Nesseth; juniors: Ella Krupicka and Keandra Trotman; sophomores: Julia Feldhake, Lydia Hershberger, Sydney Swedin; freshmen: Maddie Hall, Kasie Larsen, Summer Moeller, Elle Otting; eighth graders: Hennessy

Britta Henderson in sprints, Chirstina Bell in IM and Fly, Lainey Steckelberg (mid distance, back), Beverly Deranek (back and sprints, everything really)- There are so many to keep an eye on, as you can see we have a very young team

2022 RECAP

Big 9: 10th of 12

Momberg and Riley Rinaldi; and seventh grader: Violet Connole.

2022 RECAP

Conference record: 6-0-1; Big 9 Conference Championship: third out of 12; Section 1AA Championship: fourth Place out of eight; state participant: Nora Kortuem in the 200 Individual Medley (15th place).

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

The 2023 Season has limitless potential. We’ll transition to Class A this season, which should allow for more athletes to participate at the MSHSL Class A state tournament Nov. 16-18.

This year, the Gators will be led by Brian Porter and Kristi Kortuem in their second season as co-head coaches, and they are assisted by Matt Detjen and Kylie Sieben. With one season under their belts,

True Team Sections: 6th of 8 Sections: 8th of 8

2023 SEASON OUTLOOK:

We should be middle of the pack as far as depth goes but we are going to do a lot of learning this year because we have such big 7, 8, and 9 grade numbers.

they are excited to build on the success of last season and look to continue to build a powerful team for the future.

We are thrilled to see the work that these young people put in during the offseason.

A recent pre-season ranking on Minnesota Swim and Vibe shows Northfield in fifth place in the MSHSL Class A standings. The Gator girls are hungry and ready to show Class A what they’ve got.

COMPETITION:

Northfield’s competition in the Big 9 is a force to be reckoned with. The Rochester Century Panthers are the defending Big 9 Champions, and Northfield will face them in their first dual meet, since Porter and Kortuem have taken over the program. Additionally, Mankato West is coming to Northfield in October, and the Gators are excited to take them on after competing to a tie last season. In Section 1A action, Northfield will look to compete for the section title with Mankato West, Red Wing, Mankato East, Winona and Austin. This is going to be a really fun year to follow and support the Gators.

BY THE NUMBERS:

47 – Total number of athletes participating

43– Swimmers

20 - Returning letter winners

10 - Seniors

6 - Returning All-Conference athletes

4 - Divers

COMPETITION:

Century is always very tough as well as East and Northfield.

COMPETITION:

6 - Seniors

4 - Juniors

2 - Sophomores

14 - Freshmen

3 - 8th Graders

8 - 7th Graders

For the latest team scores and news turn to your favorite local news source.