Fall Sports Preview 2010

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2010 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C

I N T E R C O U N T Y

2010-2011

Fall SPORTS PREVIEW Crafting a Champion (ship)

The artwork above was done by some of the Webster Junior High students a couple of years ago, as part of a class taught by Dawn Schultz. They depict each activity that the Leader Land sports staff is looking forward to covering this fall. – Photos by Greg Marsten

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - AUGUST 25, 2010

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READ LEADER SPORTS A sappy fall sports preview column

Like the wafting aroma of freshbrewed java, the arrival of fall is both exciting and sometimes hard to ignore; a few rebel trees will jump the gun and modify their plumage, and those Greg blazing August afterMarsten noons can quickly turn to see-yourNorth of breath October evenings.

Everything The seasons also collide with the start of school, and a whole new batch of activities and sports to mark the seasonal changes. It’s a time to both celebrate and dread as a person who follows sports.

Hope springs eternal for teams that are all even at the start. Previous records are just that, previous and in the past.

Like the season itself, the beginning marks the end - both of summer and its sticky heat and for teams that maybe wish the record-keeping wasn’t so thorough.

Even though I’m the relative newbie in Leader land, I’ve been on all sides of sports journalistically and as a player, parent and fan. I’ve dealt with it all before, and while the excitement can quickly fade away for some folks, I absolutely revel in the relative unpredictability of high school sports.

At the high school level, the future of a program can hinge on just a few players and their birth dates. Small classes can still have phenomenal athletes who throw the critics into a frenzy, declaring a “dynasty” and celebrating their success. Conversely, large schools can have “down years,” where the pool of athletes doesn’t necessarily match the math.

Yes, success can breed success, and vice versa. Many local squads are evidence and proof of that. I’ve seen amazing programs blossom from relatively

small schools, and how they all seem to have their own marks in history for overachievement.

It’s all cyclical and it’s always changing.

I’ve been on the sidelines for both high school and college sports over the years, shooting the action as both a parent and as a reporter. There are no “sure things,” ever. I’ve seen the smallest, underdog schools from the windblown Dakota prairies inflict damage on programs five times their size. And I’ve seen bloodbaths so unforgiving and ruthless, it makes you want to buy flowers for the losing teams’ bus ride home.

It’s “David and Goliath,” and sometimes the reverse.

The heart-stopping excitement - and letdowns - of competition and the fluid dynamics of winning are an American fall tradition that we should both celebrate and enjoy to its fullest. From golf prowess that improves to levels previously unseen to volleyball action that has become an absolute marvel of competitive thrills. And yes, those gridiron matchups can become community events that are almost tribal in their connections.

We love to support the local kids, and yes, that’s a very good thing.

But the start of school and the start of its corresponding athletic action is a double-edged sword: The joy of seeing kids grow into adults and eventually move on is both sad and thrilling.

Watching them mature and compete in what are usually very short athletic “careers” is a treasure beyond its cost, and reason enough for coaches to put players in who aren’t necessarily “the best.”

One of the beauties of the American Experiment are that we celebrate differences. We can take that one step further and set aside those differences for a few hours every week and support the timeless tradition of just being a fan of local kids.

Trust me, it’s OK to be biased on occasion, as long as you realize we’re on the same side.

In spite of financial woes and red ink in school budgets and in checkbooks, we’re all optimists in the fall.

Looking forward to another season

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Area football fans don’t have to wait any longer, as the first games of the season take place throughout the area on Friday, Aug. 27. See the football schedules and all of the area sports schedules on the back of this issue. – Photo by Larry Samson

AUGUST 25, 2010 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - PAGE 3

FREDERIC VIKINGS FOOTBALL

Vikes will look to mirror last year’s success story

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer FREDERIC – The Vikings are coming off one of their most memorable seasons last year and will look to do the same in what appears on paper to be a very competitive Small Lakeland ConferKen Belanger ence. Despite a 5-3 conference record Frederic battled their way to the Level 3 playoffs, a first for Frederic football, and defeated rival Shell Lake in overtime to get there. This year, they’ll likely have another battle in store as Shell Lake returns all but two players, and with the addition of Luck in the Small Lakeland this year, things could get interesting.

“I think we’ll be pretty competitive … our kids are pretty fired up, and I think they’ve been playing very intense in practice,” coach Ken Belanger said.

The addition of Luck in the conference will make this year the first in about 20 years that the teams play against each other.

“That’ll be good for interest and particularly, if we’re both pretty competitive, well then it’ll really generate some interest,” Belanger said.

Other points of interest for the Vikings this season is that they’ll be bringing back a number of talented athletes despite losing a handful to graduation. They’ll have a strong backfield and a secondyear starter at who quarterback should get protection from at least four returning linemen who started last season.

Belanger said his line is big and strong, and Josiah Lund

FREDERIC VIKINGS FOOTBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Jon Sederlund, Trae Gehl, Ben Ackerley, Robert Kirk, Tony Peterson, Zach Tietz, Chase Dodds, John Chelmo, Jesse Sanchez, Ryan Phernetton, Kyle Simonson, Josiah Lund.

JUNIORS: Waylon Buck, Michael Tesch, Eric Stoner, Antwon Smith, Anthony Evans, Ray Kurkowski, Chris Hopp, Bryce Williamson, Dayton Rivera.

SOPHOMORES: Kory Morse, Garrett Wendelboe, Adam Chenal, Chris Schorn, Vince Nelson, David Crandell, Mike Runnels, Brad Peterson, Alex Harlander, Ryan Wylie, Matt Tietz, Nate Ahlness, Blain Clemons, Gino Lonetti.

FRESHMEN: Jaryd Braden, Jack Tricker-King, Hunter Dodds, Sawyer Tietz, Zach Kuechenmeister, Sam Pewaush, Sonny Chelmo, Tim Lund, Ben Kurkowski.

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Ken Belanger ASSISTANTS: Troy Wink, Jason Pickering, Billy Struck.

“I think it’s a pretty football-mature group that knows what they need to do, and they’ve worked hard, so I think that’s in our favor for sure,” Belanger said.

It’s going to be a tough season to predict in the Small Lakeland, but the Vikings should be able to compete with the best of them. Their first test of the regular season will come at Siren on Friday, Aug. 27.

The Frederic Vikings could provide the same excitement as they did last season with the quality players they have returning. – Photo by Marty Seeger

there are athletes on the team that have speed and receivers that can catch the ball well.

“We’ve been lucky in the fact that we’re generally about half and half, seniors and underclassmen in terms of starting, and we’re kind of in that same boat again this year,” Belanger said.

The Vikings have strength in the fact that the team has been working hard throughout the summer, and they have the right attitude to push through the long season.

Trae Gehl

Ben Ackerley

Tony Peterson

Robert Kirk

Zack Tietz

Chase Dodds

John Chelmo

Jesse Sanchez

Ryan Phernetton

Kyle Simonson

Antwon Smith

Waylon Buck

Michael Tesch

Anthony Evans

Eric Stoner

Ray Kurkowski

Chris Hopp

Bryce Williamson

Dayton Rivera

Kory Morse

Adam Chenal

Vince Nelson

Mike Runnels

Ryan Wylie

Gino Lonetti

GOOD LUCK FREDERIC VIKING TEAMS FROM THESE BUSINESSES:

Affordable Quality Avalon Bass Lake Lumber Bremer Bank Burnett Dairy Co-op Carquest of Frederic Cummings Lumber D & L Financial Services Daeffler Quality Meats Daeffler Trucking Drs. Harlander & Tesch Earth Energy Systems Fiedler Ford

Frederic Design & Promotion Frederic Grocery Frederic Nursing & Rehabilitation Community Frontier Trails Riding Stables Grindell Law Offices Indianhead Credit Union Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association Larsen Auto Centers Linda’s Family Child Care North Land Ambulance #975 Paradise Landing

Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative Pour House Rural American Bank State Farm Insurance – Corey Arnold Sterling Bank Sundown Saloon The Medicine Shoppe Trade Lake Store U.S. Bank

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - AUGUST 25, 2010

GRANTSBURG PIRATES FOOTBALL

Pirates are pumped up to have some fun and do some winning

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer GRANTSBURG – The Grantsburg Pirates are hoping to leave some bruises in the conference - big purple bruises.

Keith Lehne is entering his 13th season as head coach, which may work in Keith Lehne his direction, lucky number, and all. But even then, Lehne has been at the helm - or very near it - for even longer.

“I spent two seasons as defensive coordinator, and a season as a volunteer assistant before becoming head coach,” Lehne said.

He’s got a few changes coming this season, as a new defensive coordinator, Mike O’Donnell, will be on the sidelines for 2010. Another new face on the Pirate sidelines is coach Adam Hale, who comes from a place with actual pirates.

“He comes to Grantsburg after several seasons coaching in Florida,” Lehne said.

The Pirates graduated seven seniors last spring, and have lost two or three starters to “School changes, injury, or poor choices,” Lehne said.

But this is a new year, and his squad seems pretty pumped up to get dirty and have some fun. He has some solid talent in starters Gavin Meyer and Damien Rasmussen on the offensive line and as linebackers, and can expect to improve on 2009's 3-6 overall record.

Also watch for four-year-starter Derek

GRANTSBURG PIRATES FOOTBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Devan Christensen, Trevor Thompson, Jim Nelson, Brent Myers, Kyle Johnson, Derek Bertelsen, Andy Falk, Gavin Meyer, Dylan Franklin.

JUNIORS: Daniel Larsen, Damien Rasmussen, Andy Jones, Seth Coy, David Ohnstad, Mat Swenson, Brent Johnson, Devon Mogel.

SOPHOMORES: Brandon Ryan, Bryce Ryan, Evan Ryan, Connor Myers, Colton Tretsven, Clay Poeschl, Jacob Wald, Lucas Willis.

FRESHMEN: Jared Benedict, Richard Berry, Nick Britton, Shane Fagnan, Joe Gaffney, Gus Johnson, Austin Thoreen, Lars Thoreson, Chandler Witzany.

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Keith Lehne ASSISTANTS: Josh Watts, Bob Martin, Mike O’Donnell, Adam Hale.

The Grantsburg Pirates football team is pumped up and ready for action.

They’re coming off a solid performance at the scrimmage in Shell Lake on Friday, Aug. 20. – Photo by Larry Samson

Bertelsen, who has become a familiar face as a linebacker and running back. You’ll notice Brent Myers returns at QB and safety. Kyle Johnson returns as a running back.

“Once our offensive line is healthy it should be a major strength,” he said, noting that Meyer, Rasmussen, Seth Coy, and Colton Tretsven are returning from last season as well. He also looks to contributions from Mat Swenson, David Ohnstad, Andy Jones and Clay Poeschl.

“Our biggest weakness at this point is depth at all positions,” Lehne said. “We will be counting on contributions from several sophomores and possibly a few freshmen.”

Team captains Myers, Rasmussen and Meyer are handling the inside leadership, and Lehne is expecting Clear Lake and Flambeau to battle for the championship.

“We look forward to playing everyone with the goal of getting our program back to a playoff level,” He said.

Devan Christensen

Trevor Thompson

Jim Nelson

Brent Myers

Kyle Johnson

Derek Bertelsen

Andy Falk

Gavin Meyer

Dylan Franklin

Daniel Larsen

Damien Rasmussen

Andy Jones

Seth Coy

David Ohnstad

Mat Swenson

Brent Johnson

Devon Mogel

Brandon Ryan

Bryce Ryan

Evan Ryan

Connor Myers

Colton Tretsven

Clay Poeschl

Jacob Wald

Lucas Willis

GOOD LUCK GRANTSBURG PIRATE TEAMS FROM THESE BUSINESSES:

BackWoods Beer & Bait Bass Lake Lumber Bremer Bank Burnett Dairy Co-op D&L Financial Services Farmers Independent Telephone Co. Fiedler Ford Gary Nelson Insurance Agency

Grindell Law Office Herb’s Tee To Green Holiday StationStores – Grantsburg Indianhead Credit Union Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association Larsen Auto Centers

Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative Pour House State Farm Insurance – Corey Arnold Trade Lake Store Trailer City U.S. Bank Wild River Sports Cycle

AUGUST 25, 2010 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - PAGE 5

LUCK CARDINALS FOOTBALL

Respect all, fear none campaign for 2010

LUCK CARDINALS FOOTBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Devin Douglas, Landen Strilzuk, Cole Mortel, Alec Mortel, Kyle James, Roger Steen, Kenny Sanford, Chris Spencer, Brady Klatt.

JUNIORS: Ben Kufalk, Nick Tronrud, Spencer Nelson, Jesse Rennicke, Hunter Wilson, Jacob Schrock, Brandon Holdt.

SOPHOMORES: Kyle Hunter, John Denny, Eric Blaser, Cole Engstrand, Brody Kunze, Matt Sanford, Evan Armour, Ethan Prien.

FRESHMEN: Karsten Petersen, Casey Ekholm, Cody Engstrand, Connor McGinnity, Austin Holm, Colton Branville.

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer LUCK – The Luck Cardinals had a pretty solid campaign during the 2009 season, going 42 in the Large Lakeland Conference and 6-4 overall. They were one of the smallest schools in Don Kendzior the Large Lakeland but enrollment has dropped considerably over the past years, from 230 students to between 150 and 160.

Shrinking enrollment is most often associated with bad news, but it could be an exciting time for Luck, as they move back

COACH

HEAD COACH: Don Kendzior

The Luck Cardinals football team lines up against New Auburn in their first scrimmage of the season. – Photos by Marty Seeger

into the Small Lakeland for 2010. For the first time in about 20 years, they’ll get a chance to face the Frederic Vikings, and avenge last year’s first-round playoff loss to Shell Lake, who was ousted by Frederic

Cards receiver, Cole Mortel made a nice grab against New Auburn during the scrimmage at Luck.

in the Level 2 playoffs last year. While Frederic, Shell Lake, Turtle Lake and Bruce all look to be contenders for the conference title, Luck’s motto of “respect all – fear none” shows they’re up for any challenge.

“This is going to be another great season at Luck. When you have outstanding players and students, how can you not want to coach these fine athletes?” said Don Kendzior, who began coaching again in Luck last season. He coached at Luck between 1995 and 2002, and the Cards boasted a 57-18 record during that time.

“Before the season has even started, I can honestly say we have already been successful, because of the players’ dedication and motivation to become better. If the injury bug stays away, we will be there at the end,” Kendzior said.

The Cardinals return several key starters from last season including Landen Strilzuk, Roger Steen, Ben Kufalk and Cole and Alec Mortel. But they’ll also be working with smaller numbers, something unavoidable in the smaller school systems.

And while depth could be a potential issue, the Cardinals have been staying in shape, hitting the weight room throughout the summer.

“Great attendance at summer weight room sessions,” Kendzior said.

With so many close games last season against the larger schools, and a bulk of their starters returning again this season, Luck shouldn’t be a dark horse in the conference, but a key contender for a title.

Brady Klatt

Landen Strilzuk

Cole Mortel

Alec Mortel

Roger Steen

Kenny Sanford

Chris Spencer

Brandon Holdt

Devin Douglas

Ben Kufalk

Spencer Nelson

Jesse Rennicke

Hunter Wilson

Jacob Schrock

Evan Armour

Nick Tronrud

John Denny

Eric Blaser

Cole Engstrand

Brody Kunze

Matt Sanford

Kyle Hunter

GOOD LUCK TO LUCK CARDINAL TEAMS FROM THESE BUSINESSES:

Auto Plus of Luck Bella Salon Burnett Dairy Co-op Cardinal Shop Fiedler Ford Hog Wild BBQ Holiday StationStores Indianhead Credit Union Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association

Larsen Auto Centers Luck Golf Course Luck Saddlery & Outfitters Luck Sport and Marine Maxwell Heating & Air Conditioning Nails by Cathi & Tanning North Land Ambulance #974 Paradise Landing Pawn Gallery

Peper Tire & Alignment Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative Rural American Bank Scott Mellon/Edina Realty Sterling Bank Thrivent Financial For Lutherans – Luck Van Meter’s Meats

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - AUGUST 25, 2010

ST. CROIX FALLS SAINTS FOOTBALL

Skill positions, speed and junior class for Saints this season

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer ST. CROIX FALLS – It’ll be a different look for St. Croix Falls this year. Last season they started off with what appeared to be one of the more solid teams in the conference Rod Sempf until injuries started setting in. Out of 22 starters, the Saints had about nine remaining by the final three or four games. Despite those numbers, the Saints finished strong, but fell just short of making the playoffs.

“I would say the one thing I learned last year is the character of our younger guys. I mean, they really could’ve rolled over and ST. CROIX FALLS SAINTS FOOTBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Ryan Jaremczuk, Garrett Radinzel, Nick Johnson, Spencer Walters, Taylor Sempf, Zach Christenson, Marcus Campbell, Ian Anderson, Sam Mike, Auney Seifert.

JUNIORS: Jake Rademacher, Jace Marek, Zack Horn, Cody Zelinski, Erik Segelstrom, Alex Bertram, Preston Larson, Ryan Nussbaum, Austin Foeller, Alex Mikl, Ethan Anderson, Ben Clausen, Terrence Klemish, Grant Simpson, Eric Swenson, Nolan O'Brian, Kyle Yunker.

SOPHOMORES: Tony Stelton, Ryan Johnson, Kevin Fisk, Jake Sommer, Taylor Woller, Hayden Peterson, Marshall Dillman, Michael Chernyav, Shane Swanson, Zach Constant, Jordan Amos, Tyler Hills, Bryan Nelson, Brandon Loiselle.

FRESHMEN: Drew Dumke, John Houliston, Cory Thereox, Kodi Peters, Jake Rix, Ben Kopp, Zarek Kubesh, Brian Gilbert, Andrew Erickson, Joe Rademacher, Eric Anderson, Dan Horn, Teagan Hills, Travis Mcloud, Nate Hansen, Trevor Cross, Zach Wojahn.

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Rod Sempf ASSISTANTS: Grant Belisle, Rob Bullard, Ryan Humpal, Jake Meyer, Paul Gilbert.

The St. Croix Falls football team has a heavy dose of junior talent and a fair number of seniors to work with. – Photo

by Marty Seeger quit, and they came to practice every week.

It literally was, ‘OK coach, where am I going to be at this week?’” And they stepped up and competed,” said head coach Rod Sempf.

With 10 seniors and about 17 juniors to work with, the team is relatively new, so Sempf will be taking it day by day. There are also a handful of new assistant coaches that bring new concepts to the game on both offense and defense.

“This year, we’ve got a lot of new guys, a lot of new players in different positions and its definitely going to involve a lot of just … development of players,” Sempf said. “We have guys that are good football players but just getting them into a cohesive team is going to be the biggest challenge I think this year.”

One of the team’s strengths could rest with their skills players and speed, something the Saints have also had over the past few seasons. Nick Johnson is back this season as a four-year starter at wingback, and Auney Seifert was the go-to running back near the end of the season last year. He had about 600 yards rushing in the Saints final three games.

The Saints will be working with a new quarterback in senior Taylor Sempf. He replaces the graduated Matt Vold, a threeyear starter.

Ryan Jaremczuk “We have guys that

want to compete, and we have guys that are physical, and when you have those two characteristics, we’ll be competitive.

There’s no doubt about it,” coach Sempf said.

Garrett Radinzel

Nick Johnson

Spencer Walters

Taylor Sempf

Zach Christenson

Marcus Campbell

Ian Anderson

Sam Mike

Auney Seifert

Jake Rademacher

Jace Marek

Zack Horn

Cody Zelinski

Erik Segelstrom

Alex Bertram

Preston Larson

Ryan Nussbaum

Austin Foeller

Alex Mikl

Ethan Anderson

Ben Clausen

Terrence Klemish

Grant Simpson

Eric Swenson

Nolan O'Brian

Kyle Yunker

GOOD LUCK ST. CROIX FALLS SAINT TEAMS FROM THESE BUSINESSES:

Barb’s Family Hair Care and Tanning Burnett Dairy Co-op City of St. Croix Falls Clayton Hardware/Radio Shack Dalles Auto Sales Fiedler Ford Frontier Ag and Turf

Greatland Transportation Service Indianhead Credit Union Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association Lampert's Larsen Auto Centers MarketPlace Foods Martens Jewelry

Paradise Landing Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative St. Croix Family Dentistry Steven Swanson AAL The RiverBank - St. Croix Falls Uncle Donuts Uptown Floral and Gifts Wal-Mart SuperCenter Wild River Flags

AUGUST 25, 2010 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - PAGE 7

SIREN DRAGONS FOOTBALL

Dragons have a new head coach and strong numbers

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer SIREN – The Siren Dragons are banking on some renewed interest with a new coach and some new players this season.

Coming off a 1-7 conference record in 2009 in the Small Lakeland, Siren has Bill Hoefler regrouped and changed their focus as the new year rolls around.

“I’m really looking forward to the season, we’ve got a decent-sized squad and some new players, so it should be a good season!” stated new head coach Bill Hoefler, who spent the last three years as a back and linebacker assistant at St. Croix Falls before taking over the Dragon program.

He should have lots of help, as the entire assistant coaching staff has returned to help out the newcomer Hoefler.

“That’s really going to help,” he said, noting that assistant coaches Ron Dorn, Bill Sargent and Frank Taylor will be instrumental in keeping what works and starting over in a few areas.

Hoefler will not have official captains this season and hopes that the team decides later on who they feel should be the leaders. “It’s not necessarily the best players, or even the oldest players,” he said.

He is excited to have some of the best of the past in his stable, but realizes graduating last year’s lone senior, Christian Hall, was a big loss. But that shows they haven’t lost many players, and in fact have gained quite a few.

“Really, any returning player is a good thing,” he said. “All of ‘em! And I’m really impressed by some of the new kids we’ve got.”

With about 25 kids on the roster, he says having a “decent-sized squad” is a big plus, along with the way they work together so early in the year.

“I honestly think that team unity is one of our big strengths,” he said with a nod.

“They’re a good, close-knit group, and a really good group of boys,. We’ll see where it takes us!”

Hoefler says he doesn’t know of any

Will Haines

SIREN DRAGONS FOOTBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Dana Hubbell, Seth Stoner, Tadd Oachs, Jeremy Wikstrom.

JUNIORS: Elijah Hinze, Evan Oachs, Isaac Wegner, Will Haines, Murdock Smith, Andrew Brown.

SOPHOMORES: Reuben Mixsooke, Josh Lemieux, Hunter Wikstrom, Shay Johnson, Courtland Otto.

FRESHMEN: Triston Alden, Graham Hall, David St. John, Ethan Java, Jared Emery, Asa Hunter, John D'Jock, Jade Merrill.

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Bill Hoefler ASSISTANTS: Frank Taylor, Bill Sargent, Ron Dorn, Dave Hatch.

The Siren Dragons have a decent-sized squad this season with a roster of 25 athletes, which could benefit the team considerably. – Photos by Marty Seeger

weaknesses and is sincere when he says that “every team they face will be a chal-

lenge. Every team in this conference is capable of beating any other team.”

The Dragons had a nice showing against Lake Holcombe at a scrimmage in Luck Friday, Aug. 20, scoring a pair of touchdowns during one session on offense.

Dana Hubbell

Seth Stoner

Tadd Oachs

Jeremy Wikstrom

Elijah Hinze

Evan Oachs

Isaac Wegner

Murdock Smith

Andrew Brown

Reuben Mixsooke

Josh Lemieux

Hunter Wikstrom

Shay Johnson

Courtland Otto

GOOD LUCK SIREN DRAGON TEAMS FROM THESE BUSINESSES:

BackWoods Beer & Bait Bremer Bank Burnett Dairy Co-op Chattering Squirrel Daeffler Quality Meats Daeffler Trucking D & L Financial Services Earth Energy Systems

Fiedler Ford Herb’s Tee To Green Indianhead Credit Union Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association Kris’ Pheasant Inn Larsen Auto Centers Lee’s Sports

Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative Pour House Siren Dairy Queen Sterling Bank U.S. Bank Vasatka Systems

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - AUGUST 25, 2010

UNITY EAGLES FOOTBALL

Eagles loaded with senior talent, high expectations

UNITY EAGLES FOOTBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Mitchell Galle, Rush Hickethier, Joe Swanson, Lucas Hetfeld, Jake Johnson, Dylan Hendricks, Luke Nelson, Jason Vlasnik, Brady Flaherty, Derek Campbell, Steven Acosta, Brandon Mooney, Reid Binfet, Doug Bengtson.

JUNIORS: Kevin Bystrom, Brady Turner, Jordan Hughes, Nate Despiegelaere, Clay Peckman, Garrete Lunsmann, Steven Anderson, Xavier Foeller, Reed Sorenson, Justin Runberg, Eric Nelson.

SOPHOMORES: Alex Lennartson, Brendan Foeller, Jacob Ruck, Austin Peterson, Aaron Koshatka, Mitch Egge, Kyle Sorenson, Justin Peper, Erik Kuske, Zac Baxter, Justin Aronson, Justin Mooney.

FRESHMEN: Cash Hickethier, Zac Johnson, Kelby Peterson, Cole Peckman, Hunter Ward, Justin Bradley, Mitchell Kruger, Cullen Madison, Mac Baxter, Colin Loehr, Skler Ricketson, Oliver Raboin, Cole Hanson, Dakota Ward, Caleb Hacker, Alex Juleen, Austin Severin, Reese Johnston.

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer BALSAM LAKE – The Unity Eagles seem ready take on the Large Lakeland this year with one of their largest crops of veteran seniors they’ve had in recent memory.

“We’ve got a good Dave Anderson group, and most of them have been playing for two to three years,” said coach Dave Anderson, who is in his fifth year as head coach and 10th year overall coaching Unity football.

For the past few seasons, the Eagles had to work with a bit of inexperience due to a lack of upperclassmen and have fallen just short of the goal of making the playoffs.

But this could be the year, as the defense returns seven starters and another seven players are returning to the offense.

The Eagles will be without at least one playmaker this season in 1,000-yard-rusher Dustin McKinney, who brought bursts of speed with every game. McKinney has since graduated, but the Eagles will be adding bulk to the backfield with Reed

COACH

HEAD COACH: Dave Anderson

The Eagles are eyeing the playoffs and have a great shot at doing well in the Large Lakeland this year behind coach Dave Anderson. – Photo by Marty Seeger Sorenson and Xavier Foeller. Sorensen was a backup to McKinney last year, and Foeller was the starting fullback. Both are bigger, stronger and faster than last season

according to Anderson, and the line on both offense and defense is just as improved.

“Most of our line is returning starters

and they’re all bigger. The weight room went really well this summer,” Anderson said.

The team also participated in another football camp over the summer at UM-Duluth, and team captains incorporated a summer captain’s draft, choosing teams in the spring and earning points for good performance in the weight room over the summer. The captain’s team that won the summer challenges was able to pick the workout for the first week of practice.

Rolling huge tractor tires was just one of many ways the workouts began, and one way to make the grueling practices a bit more interesting.

One of the biggest strengths for the Eagles this season will be their senior leadership according to Anderson. Captains Luke Nelson, Jason Vlasnik, Brady Flaherty and Rush Hickethier will hope to lead the team through another season and another shot at making the playoffs.

“It will be a competitive conference this year, and we hope to be right in the mix,” Anderson said.

Rush Hickethier

Jason Vlasnik

Luke Nelson

Brady Flaherty

Mitchell Galle

Joe Swanson

Lucas Hetfeld

Jake Johnson

Dylan Hendricks

Derek Campbell

Steven Acosta

Brandon Mooney

Reid Binfet

Doug Bengtson

Kevin Bystrom

Brady Turner

Jordan Hughes

Nate Despiegelaere

Clay Peckman

Garrete Lunsmann

Steven Anderson

Xavier Foeller

Reed Sorenson

Justin Runberg

Eric Nelson

GOOD LUCK UNITY EAGLE TEAMS FROM THESE BUSINESSES:

Angler’s Inn Balsam Lake Hardware Balsam Lake Market Bradwell Enterprises Burnett Dairy Co-op Dale A. Johnson, CPA Fiedler Ford Harvest Moon Saloon

Holiday StationStores Indianhead Credit Union Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association Jeff’s Small Engine Larsen Auto Centers Paradise Landing

Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative Rural American Bank Sterling Bank Steve’s Appliance Plus Tire Experts U.S. Bank Wilkins Bar and Resort

AUGUST 25, 2010 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - PAGE 9

WEBSTER TIGERS FOOTBALL

Tigers expecting very good things this season

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer

WEBSTER – The Webster Tigers are coming off a stellar 2009 season, marking an undefeated Large Lakeland performance and just one nonconference loss.

They became a team Jeromie Voeltz that got better as the weeks went on.

That’s a tough measure to match, but sixth-year head coach Jeromie Voeltz is confident they can make some waves this year again. He has a talented and dedicated group of assistants to keep the magic rolling, which may be difficult after graduating 17 seniors.

“You never can tell until the season gets going,” he said, looking to a stable of quality players from last year, including Garrett Eichman, James Wethern, Dan Dochniak, Mason Kriegel and Greg McIntyre. All of them know what makes a quality squad, and can hopefully take that same formula back on the field.

The Webster Tigers football team lines up against Shell Lake during their first scrimmage. – Photos by Larry Samson

Even graduating so many players, Voeltz thinks one of their biggest strengths is their higher numbers than in the past. Success often raises interest levels and the Tigers’ past success means the program should stay strong again.

Voeltz's biggest weakness this year is just losing a bevy of talented seniors, but that inexperience should be a simple problem to overcome.

“We’ve just got to get out their and see what we can do,” he said while walking to a practice. “You never know until the season starts!”

Voeltz thinks the Clear Lake Warriors could be an opponent to watch, again, as

A Tigers ball carrier slides past a Shell Lake defender during a scrimmage.

well as Flambeau, which has always had successful programs.

But if history says anything about his squad, they will blossom as the season rolls, even with the loss of “ultra back” Dan Pope - one of the most explosive players in the conference last year. He made sure they were never out of a game, and that meant never turning away from the scoreboard for long.

Predicting whether they can make up for their senior losses is tough, but safe to say the Tigers will have plenty of offense this year, and will make some waves on the other side of the ball, as well.

“Again, just got to get on the field and

see what we’ve got,” Voeltz said confidently.

WEBSTER TIGERS FOOTBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: James Wethern, Dan Dochniak, Mason Kriegel, Andrew Starks, Greg McIntyre, Lincoln Spafford, Ben Jensen.

JUNIORS: Garrett Eichman, Aaron Clay, Austin Bork, Josh Baer, Anthony Dietmeier, Chris Weeks, Mycal Larson, Michael Bambery, Marcus Nelson, Randy Rankin, Chad Rosenthal.

SOPHOMORES: Nathan Puttbrese, Dillon Reeder, James Pijanowski.

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Jeromie Voeltz ASSISTANTS: Jovin Kroll, Andy Smith, Craig Dorn.

James Wethern

Dan Dochniak

Mason Kriegel

Andrew Starks

Greg McIntyre

Lincoln Spafford

Ben Jensen

Garrett Eichman

Aaron Clay

Austin Bork

Josh Baer

Anthony Dietmeier

Chris Weeks

Mycal Larson

Michael Bambery

Marcus Nelson

Randy Rankin

Chad Rosenthal

Nathan Puttbrese

Dillon Reeder

James Pijanowski

GOOD LUCK WEBSTER TIGER TEAMS FROM THESE BUSINESSES:

Bremer Bank Burnett Dairy Co-op Chattering Squirrel Fiedler Ford Four Star Sports Herb’s Tee To Green Holiday StationStores

Indianhead Credit Union Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association Larsen Auto Centers Log Cabin Store Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative

Pour House The Tap U.S. Bank Vasatka Systems Voyager Village Country Club Yellow Lake Golf Course

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - AUGUST 25, 2010

FREDERIC VIKINGS VOLLEYBALL

Coach Lemieux takes back the helm in Frederic

very excited to be back in coaching. I just love the game,” said Lemieux after her first practice of the season.

The Vikings first day of practice was a grueling one, but it didn’t seem to keep anyone away.

“Yesterday there were like 31 girls and now there are 32, so that’s a positive,” Lemieux said.

Many of the girls back from last year have varsity experience, and two had even been coached by Lemieux as freshman. Juniors Maria Miller and Corissa Schmidt both saw

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer FREDERIC – A love of coaching and a love for the game of volleyball has brought back Staci Lemieux to the Frederic volleyball team this year. The former coach took last year off to go back to Stacy Lemieux school full time and pursue a new career path. After solidifying her profession as a surgical technologist in St. Croix Falls, she was able to work out a schedule to fit work with the pleasures of coaching.

“There’s a lot of potential there, and I’m

Vikings junior Corissa Schmidt tips the ball over the net as senior Krysta Laqua looks on. – Photo by Brenda Martin

varsity action and will likely be strong assets to the team again this year. The team also has a group of five seniors including Krysta Laqua, Alli Anderson, Kayla Nelson, Lea Schweinoch and Tara Anderson.

“I have a lot of strong hitters, but I haven’t figured out exactly where I’m going to put them yet,” said Lemieux, but she believes things will eventually pan out, and that they’ll be competitive in the conference. The team has also spent time at various camps over the summer and a few played club volleyball.

“I’m just glad they’ve been doing something in the offseason,” Lemieux said.

It was just three seasons ago when Lemieux started her coaching career, and in her first year, she took the Vikings to a regional game. Good things could be in store for the team again this season.

“I’m very excited,” Lemieux said.

FREDERIC VIKINGS VOLLEYBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Krysta Laqua, Alli Anderson, Kayla Nelson, Tara Anderson, Lea Schweinoch, Isabel Lexen.

JUNIORS: Maria Miller, Lauren Domagala, Corissa Schmidt, Ashley Wendelboe, Autumn Schmidt, Allie Lundblade, Jamie Taft, Brandy Gravelle.

SOPHOMORES: Mckenna Cook, Kendra Mossey, Emily Wells, Paige Burton, Kourtney Douglas, Kendra Sheldon, Natalie Phernetton, McKenna Rognrud, Kaitlin Warner.

FRESHMEN: Carly Gustafson, Lexi Domagala, Rachel Thomas, Tylyn O'Brien, Brandy Bahr.

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Stacy Lemieux ASSISTANT: Casey DeNucci

Maria Miller

Lauren Domagala

Krysta Laqua

Alli Anderson

Kayla Nelson

Isabel Lexen

Tara Anderson

Brandy Gravelle

Corissa Schmidt

Ashley Wendelboe

Autumn Schmidt

Allie Lundblade

Jamie Taft

Kendra Mossey

GRANTSBURG PIRATES VOLLEYBALL

Veterans and talented newcomers among long list of positives for Pirates

newcomers.”

The Pirates are missing many key seniors from the state run last year, including Annie Palmquist, Lauren Romanowski, Larissa Wilhelm, Kallie Thoreson and Sarah Wald. Losing that core would doom many programs, but the Pirates have plenty of gas in the tank with returning stand-outs Kortney Morrin, Emily Cole, Tiffany Meyer and Carly Larson.

They are a quick, very talented group that likes to win, and has fun doing it. Morrin would not speculate on any areas his squad is lacking, saying he’d “let our opponents figure that out,” but probably realizes that they are the team to beat, every night on the court.

The winning gunslingers always were a target, and in spite of having a stellar record and history, they are always trying to improve, and Morrin thinks Turtle Lake will again be solid conference competition.

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer GRANTSBURG – The Grantsburg Pirates record stands by itself. In fact, the only time you won’t find the Pirates name at the top of the West Lakeland Conference is in the preseason, where they fall beBill Morrin hind - alphabetically - to those pesky squads from Clayton, Clear Lake and Frederic.

Short of changing the school name to something that starts with a ‘B,’ the Pirates will just have to go with the next best thing: Keep winning. They are coming off one of their best seasons ever, with a Division 3 state title to match their 21 straight conference championships. Under 28-year coaching veteran Bill Morrin, the program has become the model by which many volleyball programs are formed.

Morrin won’t reveal much about any changes for 2010 - why mess with success?

But he did note that they have plenty of veterans coming back and “very talented

Macy Hanson

Samantha Schwieger

Senior Kortney Morrin will be a leading force for the Pirates this fall. – Photo by Brenda Martin

Saisha Goepfert

GRANTSBURG PIRATES VOLLEYBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Tiffany Meyer, Kortney Morrin, Lauren Finch, McKenzie Ryan, Emily Cole.

JUNIORS: Carly Larson, Gabrielle Witzany, Saisha Goepfert, Nikki Ticknor, April Campana, Breanna Fickbohm, Haley Burkhardt.

RuthAnn Pedersen, Samantha SOPHOMORES: Schwieger, Kylie Pewe, Somer Rikkola, Ellie Corbin, Jen Schwieger, Cathy LaMere, Grace Corbin, Melissa Dahl, Arikka Davison, Stacey McKenzie, Lily Benge Briggs.

FRESHMEN: Harlei Hennessey, Hope Tucker, Macy Hanson, Raelyn Rochman, Gabby Banks, Kate Rod, Becca Glover, Rheanna Johnson, Jaicee Bowman, Amanda Campana, Wendy Roberts.

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Bill Morrin ASSISTANTS: Dana Morrin, Deb Allaman-Johnson.

MANAGER: Carissa Skifstad

Grantsburg’s team captains this year are outside hitter Kortney Morrin and setter Cole, both of whom earned numerous honors in conference and were also All-State recipients. They have both been at the top and know how to get their teammates back into position for another deafening playoff run. Which is good, since they can’t do much about the whole alphabetic, first-letter-in-your-school-name thing.

Carly Larson

Tiffany Meyer

Gabrielle Witzany

Kortney Morrin

RuthAnn Pedersen

Lauren Finch

McKenzie Ryan

Nikki Ticknor

Emily Cole

Kylie Pewe

AUGUST 25, 2010 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - PAGE 11

LUCK CARDINALS VOLLEYBALL

Cards rely on speed and a solid rotation in 2010

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer LUCK – The Luck Cardinals volleyball team is young, fast and hungry. Secondyear head coach Alyssa Notermann is confident her squad can compete with some of their rivals Alyssa Notermann in the talent-rich West Lakeland Conference, while also developing into a premier program later down the road.

“We have a strong freshman class, and we’ll be running a 6-2 offense, so we will be more aggressive at the net,” she said.

That 6-2 offense means the setters will be key to making some magic happen, and with returning senior Morgan Denny available for kill and block duty, along with a very fast offense, this could be an exciting year to follow the Cards.

“We really don’t have any weak rotations,” Notermann said, confident that previous growth in the program over the years has really started to pay off, boding well for the future.

The Cards did lose some quality players

Morgan Denny

Sarah Elert

LUCK CARDINALS VOLLEYBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Morgan Denny, Sarah Elert.

JUNIOR: Maia Lehmann.

SOPHOMORES: Hannah Karl, Jaimee Buck, Taylor Joy, Ashley Dexter, Jillian Peterson.

FRESHMEN: Bella Nelson, Camille Marsten, Tessa Clemenson, Abbie Otlo.

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Alyssa Notermann ASSISTANTS: Vern Longhenry, Diane Aldrich.

Morgan Denny spikes the ball over the net for the Cardinals. Denny is a senior this season and will be one of several playmakers for the Cards. – Photo by Marty Seeger to graduation, but as she said, they are relying on younger talent and quality play to stay competitive. Denny’s 205 kills and 99

Maia Lehmann

Hannah Karl

blocks in ‘09 are hard to argue with, and folks can expect another quality year from the co-captain this season, who shares

Jaimee Buck

Taylor Joy

leadership duties with senior co-captain Sarah Elert.

The junior varsity program is also strong, according to JV coach Vern Longhenry. He’s excited for “an excellent season,” and said they are relying on that same strong, younger group of talent to build on in the future.

While neither Notermann nor Longhenry would go out on a limb for predictions, they both seemed quietly confident they will be competitive and are solid enough to surprise their competition at times this season.

The Cardinals finished at 4-6 in conference last season, but split overall with an 11-11 record. They fell to Weyerhaeuser/Chetek in the second round of the WIAA Regionals, but finished the season very strong, winning five of six and losing only to powerhouse Turtle Lake, 1-3, at the end of the regular season.

Several Wisconsin notables and networks list the Cards as a team to watch, and they could truly surprise some rivals this season ... and maybe even themselves.

Ashley Dexter

Jillian Peterson

ST. CROIX FALLS SAINTS VOLLEYBALL

Saints show even more promise this season

body else is returning, and stronger and better,” said coach Staci Hoff, who is in her second year as head coach of the Saints.

“We should really be able to get up and block pretty well this year,” said Hoff, adding that hitting should go right along with that. They’ve also got four girls who should be able to add another dimension to the game with their jump-serving abilities.

Sophomores Natalie Sempf and Sydney Geisness are two of the four athletes working on their

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer ST. CROIX FALLS – The Saints finished with just three losses in the conference last year but couldn’t get through the first round of the playoffs.

Injuries played a bit of a role toward the Staci Hoff end, forcing girls into new roles and disrupting a bit of the cohesiveness of the team, but this year the girls are back and better than ever.

“We should expect a little more than what we had last year. We only lost Megan Yunker for front row, but otherwise every-

jump serves, and Hoff says both have improved dramatically. Geisness will also move to a middle-hitting role this season and will be working alongside five seniors and three juniors, including Sarah Petznick, who was one of the leaders in kills last season along with senior Alicia Chelberg.

“We have a phenomenal group of athletes, so we should do well,” Hoff said.

One thing the Saints will need to work on is in their setters, since they have only one at this time.

“She’s a good setter, I just don’t know how well she’s going to do playing front row. She hasn’t played there in a few years, so that could be one of our weaknesses,” Hoff said.

Another challenge for the Saints could come in the postseason, as they will be moving from Division 3 to Division 2 this season.

ST. CROIX FALLS SAINTS VOLLEYBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Alex Lunde, Heather Gilbert, Alicia Chelberg, Jessica Larcom, Katelynn Meyer.

JUNIORS: Ahna Hoefler, Sarah Petznick, Alexis Erickson.

SOPHOMORES: Stephanie Melin, Natalie Sempf, Sydney Geisness.

FRESHMEN: List incomplete, no roster available.

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Staci Hoff ASSISTANT: Angela Maternowsky

Katelynn Meyer

Alicia Chelberg

Ahna Hoefler sends the ball over the net during the team’s first week of practice. The Saints have a shot at making a name for themselves this season. – Photo by Marty Seeger

Alexis Erickson

Sarah Petznick

Ahna Hoefler

Heather Gilbert

Jessica Larcom

Alex Lunde

Stephanie Melin

Natalie Sempf

Sydney Geisness

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - AUGUST 25, 2010

SIREN DRAGONS VOLLEYBALL

Dragons rely on experienced, senior talent

SIREN DRAGONS VOLLEYBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Carley Emery, Ashley Guevara, Danielle Keller, Daphne Hubbell, Stephanie Taylor.

JUNIORS: Jessica Lysdahl, Amber Hall, Abigail Mitchell.

SOPHOMORES: Brittany Coulter, Kyisha Kettula, Elizabeth Brown, Heather Bearheart.

FRESHMEN: List incomplete, no roster available

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer

SIREN – The Siren Dragons dig back into the volleyball season with returning head coach Caryn Stanford, who long ago shook those first-season jitters and is ready to have the Dragons make Caryn Stanford their marks.

“This is my second year coaching, and I am really excited about this year,” Stanford said.

The Dragons have five seniors returning this year: Ashley Guevara, Carley Emery, Daphne Hubbell, Steph Taylor and Danielle Keller, which Stanford is lucky to have.

“They bring a lot of experience with them on the court,” she said. “We also have four returning starters and good competition for the remaining positions left open by graduating seniors.”

Under Stanford, Siren is almost sure to improve on their 2009 record of 2-8 in the West Lakeland - 6-15 overall - and should be a formidable opponent this season, which Stanford also expects.

Daphne Hubbell

Jessica Lysdahl

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Caryn Stanford ASSISTANT: Kristin Kosloski

Carley Emery will be one of the senior leaders on the Dragons team this season. – Photo by Larry Samson “This is going to be a great year for us,” she said confidently. “We are going to play to our strengths - which are hustle, intelligent play, quickness, and heart.”

Having so many experienced players on the court every game promises to be a good thing for Stanford’s squad, who is quite confident this will be an exciting squad, especially with such a rich talent pool to work with.

“Even though we lost the leadership of four seniors, I am confident the returning

Amber Hall

Abigail Mitchell

players will step up and fill that role,” she said. The Dragon squad should match up well this season in the very solid West Lakeland Conference, and is a clasexample of sic improving, acrossthe-board talent, with very well-

Brittany Coulter

matched schools and programs.

“With this being my second year of coaching, I am looking forward to conference play, and matching up against the other teams,” Stanford said. “I am expecting a good improvement in our record from last year.”

Siren also has a strong pool of underclassmen coming up, and their expanding volleyball talent was evident in the playoffs last year, when they surprised a very competitive Bayfield squad in the firstround regional with a 3-1 match win. Expect those kinds of things to be less of a surprise this season.

Carley Emery

Ashley Guevara

Danielle Keller

Kyisha Kettula

Elizabeth Brown

Heather Bearheart

UNITY EAGLES VOLLEYBALL

Leadership roles resting on Eagles four seniors

UNITY EAGLES VOLLEYBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Crystal Donahue, Hayla Bader, Marisa Hacker, Bryana Petersin, Olga Novikova, Femke Oltrop.

JUNIORS: Brittany Thomfohrda, Ashley Johnson, Jennifer Vlasnik.

SOPHOMORES: Sarah Bader, Hailey Olson, Taylor Heathman, Kourtney Collins, Shay Nelson, Shauna Jorgenson.

FRESHMEN: Carly Ince, Maddie Ramich, Becca Garvey, Emily Gross, Sophie Peterson, Danielle Mares, Kelly Radke, Josie Owens, Cassie Hanson, Kennedy Olson, Lily Lenk.

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer

BALSAM LAKE – The Eagles volleyball team made great strides last season under new coach Chris Lesneski, starting off a bit slow, but gained momentum toward the end of the year and into the Chris Lesneski playoffs. They made it to the second round after an exciting match-win over St. Croix Falls, only to fall short in a 3-1 match against St. Croix Central. It seems, however, that the volleyball bug has been biting Unity since the end of the season last year, as about 16 of the 25 girls out for the team haven’t stopped playing volleyball.

Seeing the team’s willingness to learn in the form of camps or club volleyball is one of the more noticeable changes Lesneski has witnessed since the first week of practices began.

“All of that is extremely important and extremely promising for what we’ve got going on here,” Lesneski said.

This year the Eagles will look to their four seniors, Marisa Hacker, Hayla Bader, Bryana Petersin and Crystal Donahue, for

Brittany Thomfohrda

Ashley Johnson

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Chris Lesneski ASSISTANTS: Jennifer DeLozier, Briana Coombe.

MANAGER: Naomi Williamson

to every game in the conference, and he also hopes they can keep the same intensity that they had at the end of last season.

“I’m not sure where we’ll fall, but I don’t think that there’s anybody that we can’t compete with a little bit more this year,” Lesneski said.

leadership. There’s also a large crop of underclassmen that played a role at the varsity level last year as well, so the Eagles aren’t lacking in experience.

“They have a better understanding of what’s going on. Having everybody within the program, with me running it for a year, it’s really been making a huge difference as to what everybody knows and what the expectations are,” Lesneski said.

As far as predictions go, Lesneski believes his girls will bring a competitive side

Shauna Jorgensen

Shay Nelson

Eagles Junior Brittany Thomfohrda makes a tough play at a practice. – Photo by Marty Seeger

Bryana Petersin

Marisa Hacker

Hayla Bader

Crystal Donahue

Kourtney Collins

Taylor Heathman

Hailey Olson

Sarah Bader

AUGUST 25, 2010 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - PAGE 13

WEBSTER TIGERS VOLLEYBALL

Tigers hope to rise to top in a tough conference

especially with the seniors she’ll have on the court: Michelle Gibbs, Billie Ingalls, Mary Johnson, Siiri Larsen, Alyssa Main and Ally Daniels.

“I really have a strong senior group,” Widiker said. “They are experienced and driven.”

While Widiker admitted there’s not a whole lot of new things for the 2010 season, that’s not a bad thing. The Webster squad will stay at the top of the local pack, and give every team a run for their money at the net. While the Tigers are not that tall, they do have several very talented hitters and setters that can use the whole court.

“Yeah, that is one of our weaknesses, we don’t have a lot of height,” she admitted, but noted that some of the players to watch are seniors Larsen, Gibbs and Johnson, all of whom are multitalented seniors few teams can match.

Widiker thinks the conference competition may be tightening, as some of the younger programs begin to mature.

“Grantsburg will be tough, but we’d like to

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer

WEBSTER – The Webster Tigers volleyball team has a solid core of experienced talent this season. They have as many talented seniors as any squad in the West Lakeland, and should be a Mindy Widiker solid contender all season long.

Head coach Mindy Widiker is in her ninth season at the reins of the Tiger program, and lost just two graduating seniors from last year: Kendra Spurgeon and Nikki Steiner. That means the team will have plenty of talented, mature players this year, which Widiker agrees will be a huge help.

“One of our strengths this year is we are an experienced team with lots of seasoned seniors,” she said.

The Tigers made a great run last season, locking up a third-place finish with a dramatic upset win over the very good Clayton Bears in the regular season finale. That tenacious, never-give-up quality - combined with a good nucleus of talent - could carry the Tigers even farther this season,

Alyssa Main

Mary Johnson

Webster senior Mary Johnson is just one of a handful of talented players on the Webster volleyball team this year. – Photo by Brenda Martin

Billie Ingalls

Chelsea Larson

Sarah Nyberg

WEBSTER TIGERS VOLLEYBALL ROSTER

SENIORS: Billie Ingalls, Michelle Gibbs, Ally Daniels, Siiri Larsen, Mary Johnson.

JUNIORS: Sarah Nyberg, Chelsea Larson, Melissa Gustavson, Shauna Rein, Audrey Mulliner, Tanya Johnson, Alyce DeBlase, Miranda Burger, Ciara Stadick.

SOPHOMORES: Amber Davis, Gabby Schiller, Nikki Emberson, Alyssa Main, Briana Phernetton, Danielle Curtis, Samantha Perius, Jill Holmstrom, Chelsey McIntyre.

FRESHMEN: Marissa Elliott, Amy Sue Greiff, Tammy Quatmann, Lindsay Schilling, Alex Holmstrom, Sydney Stellrecht, Megan Hophan, Mikayla Hatfield, Sarah Thielke, Ashley Dietmeier, Aleah Heinz.

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Mindy Widiker ASSISTANTS: Marleana Rank, Rachel Belisle.

MANAGERS: Taylor Larson, Sophie Phernetton, Abby Widiker.

give them a tough challenge,” she said. “I believe there should be a lot of good competition this season, but without playing a team at least once it’s hard to speculate.”

Michelle Gibbs

Ally Daniels

Siiri Larsen

Amber Davis

Nikki Emberson

Briana Phernetton

FREDERIC VIKINGS CROSS COUNTRY

Vikings pool of talented girls should be winners

Ian Karl

BOYS ROSTER

GIRLS ROSTER

SENIORS: Jade Johnson, Sam Nelson, Calla Karl, Sage Karl, Tanesha Carlson, Sarah Knauber.

SOPHOMORE: Katie Simpson FRESHMAN: Abby Brightbill

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer FREDERIC – The Frederic Vikings cross-country season could be quite interesting. The returning depth and talent is as impressive a squad as any in the region, and are sure to be even faster and more competitive this sea-

son.

Second-year coach Ian Karl teams up with returning co-coach Eric Olson to keep the Frederic program marching along, at an even quicker pace.

“We expect even faster running,” said Karl, who noted the exceptional pool of returning seniors that includes Tanesha Carlson, Samantha Nelson, Sage Karl, Calla Karl, Jade Johnson and Sarah Knauber, all of whom are quite capable.

“Our experience working together as a team from last year, also my and coach Olson’s experiences from last year, will help us to be better coaches this year,” Karl said.

While the girls are the odds-on favorite for a conference win, the boys are suffering

Jade Johnson

FREDERIC VIKINGS CROSS COUNTRY

SOPHOMORES: Ben Saengthaweep, Ian Lexen

Sarah Knauber

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Ian Karl VOLUNTEER ASSISTANT: Eric Olson

Coaches Eric Olson and Ian Karl are confident that the season will be very good for the girls in conference this year. – Photo by Greg Marsten the loss of some key runners, including Joel Anderson, “He will be missed, but we wish him luck in his college career,” Karl said.

They do have returning runner Ian Lexen and track veteran Ben Saengthaweep. But the boys numbers are still low for the moment, putting even more pressure on underclassmen.

“We have some new, younger runners,

Tanesha Carlson

Samantha Nelson

but still need more if our program is to stay strong,” Karl said.

Both Olson and Karl are confident that the season will be very good for the girls in conference this year, and even other coaches have remarked on their solid girls squad this season.

The Vikings regional and sectional performances last fall were just a hint of their

Ben Saengthaweep

Katie Simpson

success at Wisconsin Rapids. Their seventh-place finish at the state tournament last Halloween is an example of their strength, and the group of returning seniors means the local squads are the likely first victims.

“Yeah, the [conference] outlook is very good for the girls team,” Karl stated.

“We’re looking forward to an exciting senior year for our conference champion girls team and the opportunity for our younger runners to learn from them.”

This is likely going to be quite a memorable season for the Vikings, and will hopefully draw in a larger pool for seasons to come.

Calla Karl

Sage Karl

Ian Lexen

Abby Brightbill

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - AUGUST 25, 2010

GRANTSBURG PIRATES CROSS COUNTRY

Good things in store for Pirates cross-country team

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer GRANTSBURG – Of the three Pirates that earned a trip to the state meet last year, two will be back. Seniors Steven McKinley and Angela Gaffney will be hoping to earn their Paul Huskamp third-straight state appearance and have a great shot at doing so. Several positives came from the sectional meet last season.

“Every single one of the kids that ran were at their personal bests, or ran better than their personal bests,” said longtime Pirates coach Paul Huskamp after his athletes finished the sectional meet in Boyceville last year.

Other boys who ran the sectional last year are back this year as well, including Zach Arnold and Daniel Biorn. Arnold missed a trip to state by just two places and Biorn finished 18th overall, but improved considerably over the course of

Brendan Kutz

Nick Lindgren

GRANTSBURG PIRATES CROSS COUNTRY BOYS ROSTER

SENIOR: Steven McKinley JUNIORS: Nick Lindgren, Brendan Kutz, Zach Arnold, Daniel Biorn, Kyle Roberts.

SOPHOMORES: Bradley Taylor, Sean Handy.

FRESHMEN: Jacob Ohnstad, Erland Olson.

GIRLS ROSTER

SENIORS: Jordan Christopherson, Haley Larson, Rosie LaMere, Angela Gaffney.

JUNIOR: Kaelah Maslow.

FRESHMAN: Jaden Cook.

COACH

HEAD COACH: Paul Huskamp

The Grantsburg Pirates cross-country team is geared up to give the conference a run for their money this season. – Photo by Priscilla Bauer

the season. There are also juniors Brendan Kutz and Sean Handy back this year, and both competed at the sectional level.

“The boys team looks especially good

this year,” Huskamp said, adding that just about everyone has come back.

As far as the girls team, experience and numbers are lacking a bit, but both boys

and girls should field enough for a full team.

“Plus, we have some newcomers that haven’t ran before,” Huskamp said, adding, “who knows what our incoming freshmen will do.”

A handful of the Pirates runners last season were newcomers, and showed a lot of great potential running with some of the area’s best competitors.

Steven McKinley

Angela Gaffney

Jordan Christopherson

Kaelah Maslow

Zach Arnold

Daniel Biorn

Kyle Roberts

Sean Handy

Bradley Taylor

Jacob Ohnstad

Erland Olson

Jaden Cook

ST. CROIX FALLS SAINTS CROSS COUNTRY Saints look to be competitive this season

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer ST. CROIX FALLS – The St. Croix Falls Saints cross-country team will be working with a new coach this year, but will be familiar with what Tammi Braund expects of Tammi Braund them. Braund was the assistant coach to Jennifer Clemins last year, but will fit nicely this season as head coach of a cross-country team.

“I was the assistant coach last year and loved it. I love to run and have been running for about 15 years or so now. I have lots of running experience,” said Braund.

The new coach is a St. Croix Falls High School alumnus that also ran track in high school. She loves to participate in the local 5K and 10K races, but had always been a sprinter in the past.

“Now I like the long distance things,” Braund said.

The Saints also have a new assistant coach in Doug Schmidt, who has been running for over 30 years and will bring another angle of experience to the team.

Braund says the Saints boys should be very good this season, and have added a couple of freshmen to the Joe Thayer mix. Junior Alex

ST. CROIX FALLS SAINTS CROSS COUNTRY BOYS ROSTER

SENIORS: Nate Gravesen, Joe Thayer.

JUNIORS: Chris Eisen, Alex Frey, Rashaud Kelash, Sam Nichols, Anthony Locken.

SOPHOMORE: Rob Foss.

FRESHMAN: Cody Leach, Brendon Gearhart.

GIRLS ROSTER

SENIORS: Bailey Bergmann, Ashley Bollig, Jessica Derrick, Carley Martin.

SOPHOMORES: Autumn Erickson, Allie Holmdahl, Savannah Stone.

COACH

HEAD COACH: Tammi Braund

The St. Croix Falls cross-country team is working with enough talent to make themselves a competitive team in the conference this year. – Photo by Marty Seeger

Frey is back for another season and has a shot at state, along with junior Rashaud Kelash, who has been pushing himself

over the summer.

For the girls, senior Bailey Bergmann will get one more try at a state appear-

ance. She earned a trip to state as a freshman, and sophomore Savannah Stone could add a nice dimension to the team this year.

“Our conference outlook looks good but we will have to see what the season brings. It looks to be a great season with a lot of kids returning from last year. We will try our best and see what that brings us,” Braund said.

Nate Graveson

Carley Martin

Jessica Derrick

Bailey Bergmann

Chris Eisen

Rashaud Kelash

Alex Frey

Sam Nichols

Rob Foss

Autumn Erickson

Savannah Stone

Allie Holmdahl

AUGUST 25, 2010 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - PAGE 15

UNITY/LUCK CROSS COUNTRY

Unity cross-country team working with more upperclassmen

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer BALSAM LAKE – Unity/Luck The cross-country team is seeing a nice shift in numbers this season, which could yield some success in the conference. In years past, the team was loaded with middle Lori Anderson school athletes, but it has since shifted to include a handful of upperclassmen.

“This year I should have enough for a full girls team,” said Lori Anderson, who is head coach for the second-straight sea-

Taavi Kasemagi

Alison Lennartson

Alec Larson

Matt Schultz

UNITY/LUCK CROSS COUNTRY BOYS ROSTER

SENIORS: Taavi Kasemagi, Mickey Muller.

JUNIORS: Ben Bengtson, Aaron Cousins, Mitchell Johnston, Steven Krueger, Alec Larson, Matt Schultz.

SOPHOMORES: Scott Bever, Brendon Fenning, Dylan LeMay, Colton Sorenson.

FRESHMEN: Austin Baker, Neil Kline.

GIRLS ROSTER

SENIORS: Alison Lennartson.

SOPHOMORES: Anna Luepke, Megan Volgren.

FRESHMEN: Emily Bethke, Olivia Coen, Ella Luepke, Jade Rau.

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Lori Anderson ASSISTANT: Yvonne Sorenson

The Unity/Luck cross-country team has a lot of raw talent on this year’s roster, which could make things very exciting at the end of the season. – Photo

by Marty Seeger son. It was tough season last year for the Eagles as they faced a few injuries that whittled their numbers down a bit.

On a brighter note, the team has managed to pull a few athletes from the Luck School District to make it one of the more successful years in recruiting a full squad of boys.

“Definitely, this is the biggest group of young men that I’ve ever had,” Anderson

Scott Bever

Brendon Fenning

said.

Sophomore Colton Sorenson will likely be a key to the Eagles success this season, and senior Mickey Muller brings a lot of experience to the team. Muller works hard in the offseason to prepare for the fall, and Ben Bengtson, Alec Larson and Matt Schultz are a handful of juniors that will bring some healthy competition as well.

The Eagles also have a new foreign ex-

Dylan LeMay

Anna Luepke

change student, Taavi Kasemagi, of Germany, who in the first day of practice came in with a time in the top five boys. Sophomores Dylan LeMay and Brendon Fenning are two athletes from Luck who will have an opportunity to make their mark on the cross-country team as well.

“Just from the one practice that we had yesterday, we just have some raw talent,” Anderson said.

Mickey Muller

Ben Bengtson

Colton Sorenson

Megan Volgren

WEBSTER TIGERS CROSS COUNTRY

Tiger distance runners build on a solid legacy

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer WEBSTER – The Webster Tiger crosscountry program is looking forward to another good year, according to head coach Jim Muus who has 29 years in his pocket for expeJim Muus rience.

“We’re down a little bit in the high school [numbers], but looking forward to a good group in the junior high,” he said.

Webster’s cross-country prowess is hard to match, at least on the boys side.

Their dominance at Boyceville in the Division 3 sectionals last year, and later their fourth-place finish at state, is both notable and impressive. A repeat would be nice - but could be tough to duplicate.

“We are looking forward to another great year for Jack Taylor, as well as Joey Erickson and Devin Greene,” Muus said of his upper-level boys. “Emma Kelby and Kelly Schiller should also have another great year.”

Muus is a master at developing talent, and he’s confident that the younger ranks will continue to grow and blossom into a quality future.

“Yes, we have a good junior high program that should Joey Erickson

WEBSTER TIGERS CROSS COUNTRY

The Webster boys cross-country team is poised to get another group of quality athletes to the state meet later this fall. – Photo by Greg Marsten

help us this year and in the future,” he said.

Webster has a bevy of male talent this year at the upper levels, but the female distance runners are younger, and poised for the future. But for the here and now, Muus is pretty happy with their chances.

“Yeah, I think we have a good chance to win conference with the boys,” he said. “At this point, it's hard to say with our girls. I think Frederic should win the conference for the girls.”

Muus has a some new kids that were working out and running hard this summer, and quite a few folks are interested

BOYS ROSTER

SENIORS: Jack Taylor, Devin Greene.

JUNIORS: Joey Erickson, Taylor Heinz, Brad Krause, Cody Isaacson, Robert Buehler.

SOPHOMORES: Matt Smith, Cortland Summer.

FRESHMAN: Oudy Weber.

GIRLS ROSTER

SENIOR: Shaina Pardun.

JUNIORS: Olivia Kopecky, Tatyana Pope.

SOPHOMORES: Emma Kelby, Kally Schiller.

COACHES

HEAD COACH: Jim Muus ASSISTANT: Roy Ward

to see how they fare.

“We’re looking forward to seeing how well some of our new people do this year, like Tatyana Pope, Matt Smith and Oudy Weber,” he said. “We have a great group of runners and we’re looking forward to working with each one of them.”

The distance running tradition is strong in Tigertown, and with steady, patient veterans like Muus, that history is safe, sound and solid.

Shaina Pardun

Devin Greene

Jack Taylor

Olivia Kopecky

Brad Krause

Robert Buehler

Cody Isaacson

Taylor Heinz

Matt Smith

Cortland Summer

Emma Kelby

Oudy Weber

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - AUGUST 25, 2010

LUCK/UNITY GIRLS GOLF

An interesting season ahead for Luck/Unity golfers

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer LUCK – The golf Luck/Unity team is seeing some pretty good participation this season in terms of the number of golfers on the team, but a shadow has been cast on whether or not the Ron Steen team will be allowed to stay in the Middle Border Conference this fall. Both St. Croix Central and St. Croix Falls are in the same predicament, as it was decided last May that the teams will need to find a new conference other than the Middle Border.

Details are still sketchy on exactly why the issue was brought to attention in the first place, and the decision to move the three teams out of the Middle Border is not yet final, but it will make a three-team conference championship at the end of the season somewhat interesting. Despite the news, Luck/Unity will continue to play and continue to compete this season.

Those back this season include five seniors, one junior, two sophomores and a freshman. It makes next season a bit grim in terms of girls going out for golf, but this year could be exciting still for a few players. Avery Steen is back again this season and eyeing up another trip to the state tournament. She’s off to a slow start this year but still has a good Lindsey Stapel shot at a return trip

It will be an interesting season for the Luck/Unity golf team, as several questions remain about how they’ll fit in the Middle Border Conference, but you can bet that whatever happens, they’ll be enjoying the game of golf and having fun along the way. – Photo by Marty Seeger to state.

There are a handful of girls who haven’t played golf before, but coach Ron Steen says they’ve been making steady improvements and seem to love the game, which is likely to become their lifetime sport.

“The girls are having fun and they’re

Emily Stelling

Jenelle Larson

learning something and meeting other girls from other teams,” Steen said. He added, “Just the camaraderie, it is really neat to see.”

LUCK/UNITY GIRLS GOLF ROSTER

SENIORS: Lindsey Stapel, Emily Stelling, Jenelle Larson, Jade Schrock, Megan Moore.

JUNIOR: Tina Lennartson.

SOPHOMORES: Avery Steen, Jena Alling.

FRESHMAN: Karissa Giller.

COACH

HEAD COACH: Ron Steen

Tina Lennartson

Avery Steen

Jena Alling

Karissa Giller

ST. CROIX FALLS SAINTS GIRLS GOLF

Saints working one short of a team this season

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer ST. CROIX FALLS – The Saints golf program has a tradition of successful golf teams and athletes.

In the past decade or so they’ve been to the state tournament seven times, and have been able to do Terry Benoy so with low numbers.

This year, they’re working with some of the lowest numbers in team history. Just three golfers will grace the roster this season, but the quality is still there.

Seniors Tess Hedrick and Brittany Buss are back again for another season after finishing up in the sectional tournament at Amery last year. The team was close to making it to the state tournament but only one, Marissa Campeau, made it to state as an individual. With just three girls, and one short of fielding a team this season Hedrick and Buss will look to make a trip to state individually instead.

“They were top 10 in the conference last year and they’re really determined to do well this year and they’ve got a good attitude as going on as individuals,” coach Terry Benoy said.

The Saints are also wielding a newcomer to the mix this year in freshman MacKayla Swanson, who didn’t start playing golf all that long ago, but has worked very hard over the summer to perform quite well in her very first match of the season.

“She’s dedicated and has her family behind her so that’s really good,” Benoy said.

ST. CROIX FALLS SAINTS GIRLS GOLF ROSTER

SENIORS: Tess Hedrick, Brittany Buss.

FRESHMEN: MacKayla Swanson.

COACH

HEAD COACH: Terry Benoy.

From (L to R): MacKayla Swanson, Brittany Buss and Tess Hedrick hope to compete this season and gain a spot at state as competitors. – Photos by Marty Seeger

Tess Hedrick eyes up a shot after a hard swing.

Tess Hedrick

Brittany Buss

MacKayla Swanson

AUGUST 25, 2010 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - PAGE 17

“Great potential” for younger Unity tennis team

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer BALSAM LAKE – The Unity/Luck tennis team has had a number of successes over the past couple of years and has another chance to make it a memorable season in 2010.

Beth Trudeau The team had five girls that were lost to graduation last year, including their No. 1 singles player and part of the No. 2 doubles team.

“We have lost five players from our varsity team, but have gained several new players who show great potential,” UNITY/LUCK TENNIS ROSTER

SENIORS: Katherine Ebensperger, Jessi Kutina, Kayla Johnson, April Johnson, Kathryn Zahler.

JUNIORS: Julie Franzel, Emily Petzel, Elizabeth Thuerkoff, Brittney Bublitz.

SOPHOMORES: Anna Ebensperger, Kelsy Johnson.

FRESHMEN: Sierra Thomfohrda, Tess Anderson.

COACH

HEAD COACH: Beth Trudeau

Katherine Ebensperger

Jessi Kutina

UNITY/LUCK TENNIS

Katherine Ebensperger and Jessi Kutina will be looking to go beyond the sectional match this season as the No. 1 doubles team. – Photo by Marty Seeger

says second-year coach Beth Trudeau.

Last season five girls made it to the sectional match in Durand, but couldn’t make it to their ultimate goal of a state appearance. But their No. 2 doubles team, featuring Katherine Ebensperger and Jessica Kutina, could have a good shot to make it this year. Both Ebensperger and Kutina are serving as team captains this season. Also, Anna Ebensperger, who was on the No. 2 doubles team last season, will be playing singles, along with teammate Julie Franzel.

“Our No. 1 doubles team has set their

Kathryn Zahler

Julie Franzel

goals high and are ready to reach them.

Our team also has a great camaraderie and encouragement for each other and I couldn’t ask for more,” Trudeau said.

While it’s difficult to predict the season overall, Trudeau believes they can compete in the middle of the conference, but have the capability to reach much higher than that.

“Our goal is to finish in the middle of the conference ranks, but I also see our team succeeding higher than that if they stay focused and determined,” Trudeau said.

Emily Petzel

Elizabeth Thuerkoff

Kayla Johnson

April Johnson

Anna Ebensperger

Sierra Thomfohrda

FREDERIC VIKINGS DANCE TEAM

Fundraising a big factor in keeping dance team going

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer

FREDERIC – After starting up a dance team last year for the first time in many years, the Frederic dance team is working hard to perform during halftime at football and basketJackie Kurkowski ball games this season. With a dozen girls committed to the team this year from seventh grade through 11th grade, the team was able to keep the numbers up again.

“We’re real happy with those numbers,” said second-year coach Jackie Kurkowski, who will be getting help from choreographer Amy Tinman and assistant coach Sue Wettergren.

Along with the time and effort it takes to practice their routines, the Frederic dance team is self-funded and relies on fundraising to pay for some of the costs to compete.

They’ve already held a car wash in Frederic and hope to bring back their annual prom dress exchange in the spring.

“The girls are enthusiastic, and they’re the ones that are driving it and trying to get FREDERIC VIKINGS DANCE TEAM ROSTER

JUNIORS: Ashley Kurkowski, Danielle Swanson, Tabitha Java.

SOPHOMORE: Natasha Bailey FRESHMEN: Carly Gustafson, Bryana Bailey.

EIGHTH GRADE: Kendra Mosay, Hayden Swanson, Jamie Siebenthal, MaKayla Arthurs, Hanna Daeffler.

SEVENTH GRADE: Julia Buck.

COACH

COACH: Jackie Kurkowski

it going, so that helps me stay on top of things too, with their energy level. It’s great,” Kurkowski said.

The teams fundraising efforts will help send them to a dance competition in Prairie Farm in December.

“We went down there last year, and I don’t know how they’ll do, but it’s kind of fun,” Kurkowski said.

Two other members on the team will also be competing as individuals, but until that time, the team will continue to work on a routine, which Kurkowski said will be accompanied by the song, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” by Cyndi Lauper.

You can also look for the girls to be hosting a tailgate party during the Frederic football games this fall.

As part of the halftime entertainment for several high school sporting events this season, the Frederic Vikings dance team will be performing to “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” by Cyndi Lauper. They’ll also be performing at a competition in December at Prairie Farm. – Photo by Greg Marsten

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - AUGUST 25, 2010

UNITY EAGLES DANCE TEAM

Everything is new with the Unity Eagles dance team this season

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer BALSAM LAKE – Jillian Chell has spent at least three years as the head coach of the Unity Eagles dance team, and they’re already lining up for anJillian Chell other great year as the Eagle halftime entertainment. The team will be performing at all of the home football games and coming up with a completely different routine during the basketball season.

The first week of practice for the group, which exceeds 30 performers, was a tough one, but things are right on schedule according to Chell.

“Last week was busy and a lot of work, but they did a good job,” Chell said, adding that it’s an easy group to work with.

Chell gets a lot of her help from choreographer Tiffany Hallin, who comes up UNITY EAGLES DANCE TEAM ROSTER

SENIORS: Lindsey Voss, Erin Mabry, Julia Moore, Kaitlyn Johnson, Josie Kalenda, Kari Owens, Cassie Sturgal, Kym Radke, Alison Lennartson, Femke Oltrop, Hayla Bader.

JUNIORS: Jade Baerg, Brittany Bublitz.

SOPHOMORES: Kasey Heimstead, Anna Luepke, Brittney Kruse, Emily Bethke, Renae McKenzie, Tina Lennartson, Elaine Butala, Taylor Heathman.

FRESHMEN: Nikki Bystrom, Courtney Galle, Lily Lenk, Josie Owen, Kelly Radke, Ashley Ackerman.

COACHES

COACH: Jillian Chell ASSISTANT: Betsy Lyga

The Unity Eagles dance team will once again perform during halftime at all of the home football games this season.

– Photo by Marty Seeger

with songs as well as new and unique dance routines.

“She does an awesome job,” Chell said.

Many of the girls already know the drills and performed last season, but the team did something new this year by

selling tickets at the Polk County Fair to help raise money. Those who worked at the gates to sell tickets earned enough money to pay for new warm-ups and brand-new uniforms.

“That’s something new that we haven’t done before, and we’ll get to do

that every year now until we don’t want to do it, so that’s kind of nice,” Chell said.

Everything is new this year for the Unity dance team, and they’re excited to give fans a great show during halftime at the home football games this season.

UNITY EAGLES CHEERLEADING

Expect new stunts from Eagle cheerleaders this year

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer BALSAM LAKE – Unity’s cheerleading tradition will continue again under head coach Betsy Lyga, who is coaching her fourth season and also helps out as assisBetsy Lyga tant to the dance team. She says each year brings excitement and something new.

“I’m looking forward to the season!

The girls have great attitudes and are open to learning new cheers and stunts.

Though we are very green, I think it’ll be a successful season for us,” Lyga said.

Most of the cheer squad is new this year, and for football, the captain will be Kaitlyn MacKinnon, who is entering her third season. Junior Sam Palmquist will be in her second year of cheerleading.

“Though we lost many seniors last year, we are very fortunate to have four new ladies on our squad. As mentioned before, they are very eager to learn and have a lot of enthusiasm!” Lyga said.

UNITY EAGLES CHEERLEADING ROSTER

SENIORS: Autumn Peterson, Sam Palmquist, Brandi Larson.

JUNIOR: Kaitlyn MacKinnon FRESHMEN: Sadie Swenson, Lexi Bates.

COACH: Betsy Lyga

COACH

SCHEDULE All home and away football games.

The Unity Eagles cheer squad is ready to bring the crowd to life at home and away football games this year. – Photo by Marty Seeger

Autumn Peterson

Sam Palmquist

Brandi Larson

Kaitlynn MacKinnon

The team will also add a few new stunts and mounts to the mix of cheers this season.

“We have a flexible group this year; most of the girls can interchange positions between bases, flyers and spotters,” said Lyga.

This year the Central Wisconsin Cheer Camps put together a camp for the girls at the school, and Julie Poeschel, a University of Minnesota cheerleader, put on a six-hour camp, where she taught stunts, mounts and short dances.

“It was ideal to have our own camp, so that all skills could be taught at our ability level. The girls bonded and learned to trust one another through the camp, which is necessary in order to feel comfortable stunting,” Lyga said.

The girls will be performing at all of the home games as well as the away games.

Sadie Swenson

Lexi Bates

AUGUST 25, 2010 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - PAGE 19

ST. CROIX FALLS SAINTS CHEERLEADING

Eight cheerleaders look to lead rowdy section this fall

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer ST. CROIX FALLS – The Saints football team will have a squad of eight cheerleaders this season, after tryouts were held earlier in the year.

“We had tryouts Sarah Campbell for football the last two years, which is kind of cool because it shows that there’s an interest there.

Unfortunately, that means you have to cut some people, but I can’t work with 14 girls, that’s just too many,” said coach Sarah Campbell.

The eight cheerleaders are comprised of four seniors, and at least five of the eight are returning from last year.

“Their emphasis this year is bonding and team building, keeping focus and having fun,” Campbell said.

The team has added a unique fundraising idea to their list of activities this year, which includes cheerleading birthday parties that will be offered to

Jenna Bartusch

Taylor Stowell

ST. CROIX FALLS SAINTS CHEERLEADING ROSTER

SENIORS: Jenna Bartusch, Taylor Stowell, Bridgette Bayle, Samantha Peterson.

JUNIORS: Queen Jacobs, Samantha French.

FRESHMEN: Ciara Swanson, McKayla Swanson.

COACHES

COACH: Sarah Campbell ASSISTANT: Susie Jasperson.

SCHEDULE All home and away football games.

cheers in the crowd.

“It just gets more kids involved. Some that would never go out for cheerleading would love to come to the game and scream at the preps,” Campbell said.

This year the team’s motto is “everybody loves everybody.” Campbell says it allows the girls to “click” and become one unit. It also helps with team-building skills so they can get to know each other better and accept one another.

The Saints cheerleaders have several unique ideas to bring spirit to each home and away game this fall. – Photo by Sarah Campbell the community. For a small fee, parents will be able to hire three cheerleaders to come to a little girl's birthday party and teach cheers, stunts and jumps. They’ll also be offering another youth cheer-

Bridgette Bayle

Samantha Peterson

leading camp in October.

Another idea to get the crowd more involved is the formation of a spirit club, which gets others not on the cheerleading squad to make signs and help lead

Queen Jacobs

Samantha French

Ciara Swanson

McKayla Swanson

WEBSTER TIGERS CHEERLEADING

Tiger girls are excited to pump up the crowds

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer WEBSTER – The Webster Tigers cheerleading squad for 2010 is down slightly in numbers, but with some new young talent and plenty of interest, the squad will once Shirley Tyson again be lighting up the crowds, especially when the Tigers on the gridiron are in need of a little pick-me-up.

Now in her seventh year as head coach, Shirley Tyson is confident her squad can get the crowds going and help keep the Webster fans pumped up and ready for some football.

The Tiger football cheer squad will have at least five high school members this year, and has another half dozen or so middle schoolers in the wings to help out on occasion, such as pep rallies or

WEBSTER TIGERS CHEERLEADING ROSTER

JUNIORS: Mackenzie Koelz SOPHOMORES: Brenna Nutt FRESHMEN: Casey Sperling, Ashley Starks, Amy Rindal

COACHES

COACH: Shirley Tyson VOLUNTEER COACH: Kandi Otero

SCHEDULE All home and away football games.

There is no shortage of excitement around the Webster football program, and with one of the best, most explosive gridiron squads in the region, the Webster crowds always have lots to cheer about. – Photo by Greg Marsten

other events.

Those five varsity members are young, which is both good for the program, and gives the squad a strong future. Team captain Brenna Nutt - a sophomore leads a group that includes one junior, Mackenzie Koelz, and three hungry freshman: Ashley Starks, Amy Rindal and Casey Sperling.

Mackenzie Koelz “We’ve got a lot of

new girls this year,” coach Tyson said.

“And the middle school and high school girls seem to work really well together.”

Brenna Nutt

Casey Sperling

The Tiger cheers this year may sound a little new, as Tyson admits they “come from everywhere,” and that the team gives themselves lots of critical review.

“The past girls experience has a lot of input,” she said.

There is no shortage of excitement around the Webster football program, and with one of the best, most explosive gridiron squads in the region, the Webster crowds always have lots to cheer about, and they also have some good leadership to lead that cheering.

“We just try to have fun and make sure the girls keep the crowds going,” Tyson said as the girls worked on some new acrobatics. “This is a really good group!”

The Tiger cheer squad has a young group of girls, excited to keep the crowds and team going, while having some fun along the way. It sounds like a winning combination.

Amy Rindal

Ashley Starks

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - FALL SPORTS PREVIEW - SECTION C - AUGUST 25, 2010

Thursday, August 26

Saturday, September 11

Tuesday, September 28

Thursday, October 14

TBD

10 a.m. Grantsburg at Ashland 9 a.m.

Siren at Chetek tourney

Tennis

4 p.m.

Tennis TBD

Amery at Unity

Volleyball

Luck at Unity quad Webster at Unity quad 7:30 p.m. Northwood at Frederic Webster at Birchwood

Cross Country

4:30 p.m. Grantsburg Invite at Memory Lake Park (Frederic, St. Croix Falls, Webster, Unity/Luck)

Golf

9 a.m.

SCF & Luck/Unity at Krooked Kreek

Friday, August 27 Football 5 p.m.

7 p.m.

Webster at UW-Stout Frederic at Siren Spooner at Grantsburg St. Croix Central at Unity Winter at Luck St. Croix Falls at Osceola

Saturday, August 28 Volleyball TBD

St. Croix Falls at Menomonie

TBD

St. Croix Falls at Menomonie

Sunday, August 29

Cross Country

10 a.m. Grantsburg at Glenwood City

Volleyball

Monday, September 13 Tennis TBD

Barron Area Schools at Unity

Tuesday, September 14 Cross Country

4 p.m.

Rice Lake Invitational (Unity-Luck, Webster, Grantsburg)

Tennis TBD

Ellsworth at Unity

Volleyball

7:30 p.m. Clear Lake at Siren Webster at Luck Grantsburg at Unity Frederic at Turtle Lake

Golf

4 p.m.

SCF & Luck/Unity at Prescott

TBD

New Richmond at Unity

Thursday, September 16 Tennis

Volleyball

Tuesday, August 31

7:30 p.m. Shell Lake at Webster Clayton at St. Croix Falls Grantsburg at Luck Unity at Siren Frederic at Clear Lake

Volleyball

Friday, September 17

Volleyball

Cross Country

4:30 p.m. Frederic Invitational (St. Croix Falls, Unity-Luck, Grantsburg) 7:30 p.m. Solon Springs at Frederic

Golf

4 p.m.

SCF & Luck/Unity at Ellsworth

TBD

Unity-Luck at Durand

Thursday, September 2 Tennis

Volleyball

7:30 p.m. Luck at Shell Lake Siren at St. Croix Falls Clear Lake at Unity Webster at Frederic

Golf

4 p.m.

SCF & Luck/Unity at SCC

Friday, September 3 Football 7 p.m.

Frederic at Northwood Siren at Turtle Lake Cumberland at Grantsburg Ladysmith at St. Croix Falls Chetek at Unity Webster at Clayton Birchwood at Luck

Tuesday, September 7 Cross Country

4:30 p.m. Unity-Luck at Webster Invite held at Yellow Lake Golf Course

Tennis TBD

Bloomer at Unity

Volleyball

7:30 p.m. Frederic at Birchwood Siren at Winter Cumberland at Webster St. Croix Falls at Osceola

Thursday, September 9 Tennis TBD

Unity-Luck at Mondovi

Cross Country

4:30 p.m. Grantsburg at Cameron

Volleyball

7:30 p.m. Grantsburg at Webster St. Croix Falls at Shell Lake Siren at Clayton Frederic at Unity

Golf

4 p.m.

SCF & Luck/Unity at St. Croix Falls

Friday, September 10 Football 7 p.m.

St. Croix Falls at Clear Lake Grantsburg at Unity Luck at Shell Lake Washburn at Siren Webster at Flambeau Winter at Frederic

Golf

9 p.m.

SCF & Luck/Unity at Bristol Ridge, Somerset

Football 7 p.m.

Frederic at Bruce Grantsburg at Colfax Shell Lake at Siren Northwood/Solon Springs at Luck Unity at Flambeau Webster at Clear Lake St. Croix Falls at Cameron

Saturday, September 18 Volleyball TBD

Unity at Osceola Tourney St. Croix Falls at Osceola Tourney 10 a.m. Grantsburg Tourney (Frederic, Webster)

Cross Country

10 a.m. Grantsburg at Osceola

Tuesday, September 21 Tennis TBD

Unity-Luck at Barron

Volleyball

7:30 p.m. Luck at Clayton Webster at Siren Clear Lake at Grantsburg Frederic at St. Croix Falls

Cross Country 4 p.m.

Webster at Northwestern

Thursday, September 23 Cross Country

4:30 p.m. Grantsburg at Unity Invite

Volleyball

7 p.m.

Unity at Webster 7:30 p.m. Grantsburg at Clayton Siren at Turtle Lake St. Croix Falls at Clear Lake Luck at Frederic

Golf TBA

Conference Tournament

7 p.m.

Grantsburg at Webster Turtle Lake at Frederic Luck at Siren Flambeau at St. Croix Falls

Friday, September 24 Football

Saturday, September 25 Football 2 p.m.

Cameron at Unity

TBD

Unity-Luck at Osceola

Monday, September 27 Tennis

Cross Country

4:30 p.m. Cumberland Invitational (Webster, Grantsburg)

Cross Country

4 p.m.

Winter Invitational (Unity-Luck, Grantsburg) TBD

Unity-Luck at New Richmond

Volleyball

7:30 p.m. St. Croix Falls at Grantsburg Turtle Lake at Webster Clear Lake at Luck Shell Lake at Unity Siren at Northwood Clayton at Frederic

Golf

9 a.m.

Regional Tournament at Osceola

Thursday, September 30 Volleyball

7:30 p.m. Luck at St. Croix Falls Shell Lake at Siren Unity at Turtle Lake Frederic at Grantsburg

Friday, October 1 Football 6 p.m.

7 p.m.

Cochrane-Fountain City at Frederic Cameron at Webster Clear Lake at Unity Siren at Birchwood St. Croix Falls at Grantsburg Luck at Turtle Lake

Volleyball 7 p.m.

Clear Lake at St. Croix Falls

9 a.m.

Unity at Amery tournament Webster at Amery tournament St. Croix Falls at Amery tournament Grantsburg at Duluth Marshall

Saturday, October 2 Volleyball

Monday, October 4 Volleyball 6 p.m.

Siren at Birchwood

Tuesday, October 5 Cross Country

4 p.m.

Amery Invitational (Unity-Luck, Webster, Grantsburg)

Volleyball

7:30 p.m. Turtle Lake at Grantsburg Unity at Luck Webster at St. Croix Falls Siren at Frederic

Golf

9 a.m.

Sectional Tournament at Bristol Ridge

Thursday, October 7 Volleyball

7:30 p.m. Grantsburg at Siren Luck at Turtle Lake Clayton at Webster St. Croix Falls at Unity Frederic at Shell Lake

Friday, October 8 Football 3 p.m.

7 p.m.

Siren at Winter Grantsburg at Cameron Shell Lake at Frederic Unity at Glenwood City Bruce at Luck Webster at St. Croix Falls

Sunday, October 10 Golf TBA

WIAA State Tournament at Madison

Monday, October 11 Volleyball 5 p.m.

TBA

Frederic at Luck triangular WIAA State Tournament at Madison

Tuesday, October 12 Volleyball

7:30 p.m. Siren at Luck Shell Lake at Grantsburg Unity at Clayton St. Croix Falls at Turtle Lake Webster at Clear Lake TBA WIAA State Tournament at Madison

Football

3:30 p.m. Luck vs. Lincoln at Rice Lake

Cross Country

Conference Meet at Winter Barker Lake Golf Course (Bruce, Cameron, Flambeau, Frederic, St. Croix Falls, Shell Lake, Webster, Winter, Grantsburg, Unity-Luck)

Volleyball 6 p.m.

Siren at Bruce triangular

Football 7 p.m.

Webster at Boyceville Frederic at Birchwood

Friday, October 15 Football 7 p.m.

Clear Lake at Grantsburg Unity at St. Croix Falls Bruce at Siren

Saturday, October 16 Volleyball

9:30 a.m. Grantsburg at Cameron Invite

Monday, October 18 Cross Country

4:30 p.m. Unity-Luck at St. Croix Falls

Tuesday, October 19 Volleyball TBD

Regionals

7 p.m.

Unity at Webster St. Croix Falls at Elk Mound Flambeau at Grantsburg Luck at Frederic Siren at Northwood

Thursday, October 21 Football

Friday, October 22 Cross Country TBD

Sectionals

Volleyball TBD

Regionals

Saturday, October 23 Cross Country TBD

Sectionals

Volleyball TBD

Regionals

Tuesday, October 26 Football TBD

Playoffs

TBD

Sectionals

TBD

State

Thursday, October 28 Volleyball

Saturday, October 30 Cross Country Football TBD

Playoffs

Volleyball TBD

Sectionals

Thursday, November 4 Volleyball TBD

State

TBD

Playoffs

Friday, November 5 Football

Volleyball TBD

State

Saturday, November 6 Football TBD

Playoffs

Volleyball TBD

State

Friday, November 12 Football TBD

Playoffs

TBD

Playoffs

TBD

Playoffs

Saturday, November 13 Football

Thursday, November 18 Football