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THE FOUR

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FORT DODGE ANCHORED BY QUARTET OF EXPERIENCED STATE FINALISTS Medical Elizabeth Stoebe DO

Janet Secor DO

Lisa Chase ARNP

Ann Feser ARNP

Jennifer Pudenz ARNP

Tayler Rasch ARNP

Jennifer Zigrang ARNP

Erika Bowman

Thaylan Bowman

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Steven Schumacher

Kelsey Christensen

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Linnea Newell Social Worker

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Bethanie Ratcliff RDH

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Additional Resources Savannah Adkins Linsey Albright tLMHC tLMHC

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November 26th, 2023

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regardless of insurance status. We accept most insurance and have a sliding fee scale for those who qualify.

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The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

1

ON THE COVER: FORT DODGE CONTINUES STATE WRESTLING TRADITION

Sports

GO TEAM! 515•576•4991 www.messengernews.net

Monday, Feb. 20, 2023

Section B

Fort Dodge, Iowa

DRE’S DAY

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Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023 | Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023

Section B

Fort Dodge, Iowa

INDEX FORT DODGE DODGERS Boys Basketball...........................2 Girls Basketball...........................4 Boys Wrestling..........................10 Bowling.....................................14 Girls Wrestling..........................16 Boys Swimming........................17

ST. EDMOND GAELS

AYALA, ROSS BROTHERS IN THE FINALS FOR FD Boys Basketball...........................6 Girls Basketball...........................8 Wrestling..................................12

AREA PROGRAMS

—Messenger photos by Britt Kudla

FORT DODGE TEAMMATES DRESHAUN ROSS (LEFT) AND DRU AYALA gain control of their respective semifinal matches on Friday at the state wrestling tournament in Des Moines. For more photos, please visit CU.messengernews.net

Trio will be higher seed in all three gold-medal bouts

Dodgers have multiple finalists in ninth straight state tourney

By CHRIS JOHNSON cjohnson@messengernews.net

“I remember wrestling my brothers in the

By CHRIS JOHNSON

Sports

GO TEAM!

—Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

DRESHAUN ROSS OF FORT DODGE has his hand raised as the 2023 Class 3A state champion at 195 pounds. Ross became the biggest freshman in the modern history of Iowa’s largest class to win a title with an 8-1 victory over fellow ninth-grader Denarii Mickel of Ames. For more photos, please visit CU.messengernews.net

FD’S FAB FROSH ROSS CAPTIVATES THE STATE WITH HISTORIC TITLE

By CHRIS JOHNSON

Fort Dodge, Iowa

—Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Moines Valley on Friday night at the state wrestling meet in Des Moines.

For more photos, please visit CU.messengernews.net

See FINALS, Page 3B

sports@messengernews.net

Daytona title elusive for some of NASCAR’s finest

—Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

DODGER JUNIORS Dru Ayala (left) and Damarion Ross (above) wrestle in the state finals on Saturday in Des Moines.

For more photos, please visit CU.messengernews.net

Juniors Ayala, Ross both bring home silver medals

By CHRIS JOHNSON cjohnson@messengernews.net

DES MOINES — After falling short of the ultimate dream, it can be tough to pick up and get back to the grind.

Fort Dodge juniors Dru Ayala and Damarion Ross fell one step shy in their quest for their first respective state championships on Saturday night at Wells Fargo Arena. It won’t stop them from heading back to work in the room, though, in pursuit of a senior-year fairytale ending.

Fort Dodge entered the week with 10 qualifiers, and

five Dodgers — all of which will return next season — reached the podium.

Freshman Dreshaun Ross made history as the biggest freshman gold medalist in Class 3A state history. Ayala and Damarion Ross were runner-ups, while sophomore Koy Davidson (138) was fourth and junior Cal Hartman (170) placed seventh.

With 110.5 points, Fort Dodge finished sixth in the team standings. Waverly-Shell Rock (169) was the champion, followed by Southeast Polk (153) and Bettendorf (149).

See DODGERS, Page 3B

Congratulations to MIDWEST HARDWOOD FLOORING all Wrestlers REFINISH * REPAIR * INSTALLATION * TILE * VINYL PLANKS * REMODELING

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u SPORTS EDITOR: Eric Pratt

Monday, Feb. 13, 2023

DES MOINES — The Fort Dodge state finalist trio knows exactly what’s at stake now and who they have to beat to bring home state gold.

Juniors Dru Ayala and Damarion Ross, along with freshman Dreshaun Ross, will meet familiar opponents in Saturday night’s Pagestate 9 finals matchups inside Wells Fargo Arena.

Ayala (113 pounds), who is making his third state trip after a silver and fifth-place medal, is in his second straight championship matchup.

Damarion Ross (160) is in his third trip after a seventh-place showing a year ago. Dreshaun Ross (195) is in his first high school season.

Dodgers pack the bracket

u ASST. SPORTS EDITOR: Chris Johnson

u SPORTS WRITER: Dana Becker

u PHOTOGRAPHER: Britt Kudla

By their own admission, the Fort Dodge wrestling team still feels like it has a lot to prove.

LONG Whether By it MARK be unfinished business DAYTONA 500 from a few, or a chancePress to set foot on The Associated the big state for the first time — this group of DodgersBEACH, is ready to Fla. make their DAYTONA — own Kylemark.

Busch peered at a handful of For the fourth 2017, Fort Powerball ticketstime left since behind as part Dodge will have double-digit qualifiers of a giveaway and was told he could When: Sunday. on thethem. mat inside Wells Fargo Arena. have Where: Daytona Beach, Fla. Coach Bobby Thompson’s squad is tak“Better chances of winning that Time: 1:30 p.m. ing of 10500,” to Des Moines. thana solid the group Daytona Busch Television: FOX. “This is a great group of guys from cracked.

Lineup: 1. Alex Bowman; freshmen Thompson said.

It’s easytotoseniors,’’ understand why Busch 2. Kyle Larson; would feel that way. The two-time 3. William Byron; Cup Series champion Page is winless in See DODGERS, 14 4. Aric Almirola; 17 starts in NASCAR’s most presphoto by Britt Kudla 5. Joey Logano. tigious race,—Messenger a skid that’s more of a head-scratcher than a for heartbreakSTATE QUALIFIERS the Fort er considering Busch hasare, wonfront at just Dodge wrestling team row fessional career. (left right): Dreshaun Ross, Dru “It’s just not happened yet for abouttoevery track on the circuit.

Ayala, Max Bishop, He’s Koy even Davidson, partied in victory lane me,” said Busch, who wrecked while Sam Davidson and Damarion Ross. leading a qualifying race Thursday at Daytona International Speedway, Back: Brown,race.

Jesse and night. “Some guys, this is the only only inRylee the summer ButEgli the ulCal Hartman, Kane Butrick. timate prize on NASCAR’s ultimate race they ever win. Other guys, they stage has eluded him, maybe even win it two or three times. It’s the Sugnawed at him, throughout his pro- per Bowl of our sport, and it’s hard

to accomplish this one.”

Now driving for Richard Childress Racing in the No. 8 Chevrolet, Busch will try to change his Daytona 500 fortunes in the 65th running of “The Great American Race” on Sunday. And he has plenty of company in the 0-for-500 club, with four other drivers also having double-digit droughts in NASCAR’s season opener.

Kyle Larson, the 2021 series champ, could join the club soon.

He’s current 0 for 9 in the 500.

“It’s just a difficult style of racing that I just haven’t had the best of time in my career,” Larson said.

‘I used to always say it’s bad luck, but I don’t necessarily feel that way anymore.”

Other drivers certainly share that sentiment. Among those who have been close but are winless include:

Dodgers, Humboldt meet for berth in finals

By DANA BECKER dbecker@messengernews.net

HUMBOLDT — The Fort Dodge girls can get a little revenge and keep their season going at REGIONAL SEMIS the same time here Saturday night.

The Dodgers take on Humboldt in a Class 4A, Region 1 semifinal. Tip is set for 7 p.m.

What: Fort Dodge (12-9) at With a win, Fort Humboldt (14-7) in a 4A Dodge (12-9 overall) girls regional semifinal. will avenge a January When: Saturday. loss to the Wildcats Place: Humboldt.

(14-7) and advance to Time: 7 p.m.

Tuesday where they would play either No. 1 Dallas Center-Grimes or Carroll to qualify for state.

AREA PHOTOS Clarion-Goldfield/Dows..... 32, 33 Eagle Grove....................... 36, 37 Humboldt..................... 24, 25, 45 Manson NW Webster... 30, 31, 47 Pocahontas Area................ 26, 27 South Central Calhoun....... 40, 47 Southeast Valley................ 22, 46 Webster City...................... 34, 35

ON THE COVER: The Fort Dodge

wrestling team has four returnees who have previously competed for state titles (left to right): senior Damarion Ross, sophomore Dreshaun Ross, senior Dru Ayala and junior Koy Davidson. (photos by Britt Kudla; design by Nick Manwarren)

Good ORRES Luck GAILEY to All! See BASKETBALL, Page 7B

Instant impact for four FD freshmen & • RESIDENTIAL &

By CHRIS JOHNSON

By CHRIS JOHNSON Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning They •mayCOMMERCIAL be young, but Fort Dodge’s four freshmen are ready to test DES MOINES — Juniors Dru Ayala and the deep waters at Wells Fargo Arena.

Damarion Ross both earned top seeds for the515-576-5291 • 3300 5th Ave S, Fort Dodge, IA • INDUSTRIAL The Dodgers put four varsity rookies state tournament this week.

Six Dodgers receive first-round byes

W JGre re o at stl b er s!

See ROSS, Page 3B

cjohnson@messengernews.net

FORT DODGE CROWNS SIXFORT CHAMPIONS, SENDING 10 TO STATE TOURNEY DODGE’S DAMARION ROSS controls Cinsere Clark of West Des

cjohnson@messengernews.net

DES MOINES — Welcome to the record books, Dreshaun Ross.

All week inside Wells Fargo Arena, there were whispers of the 6-foot-2 freshman specimen from Fort Dodge.

On Saturday night in the championship round, the talk became a roar as Ross introduced himself to the state of Iowa.

Ross simply dominated the 195-pound final with all eyes on the precocious Dodger. After six minutes of complete control, the varsity rookie cemented his name in the record books as the biggest freshman champion ever in Class 3A. After his hand was raised, the typically-stoic Ross pumped his fists and let out a roar.

“I knew if I just wrestled my style and stayed solid, I had it in the bag,” Ross said. “The emotion I let out wasn’t only because of the win...it was because of all the steps it took to get where I am today and all of the hours in the room, the extra workouts, and the support my family always shows.”

Fort Dodge head coach Bobby Thompson has watched Ross grow on the mat, but for as good of an individual competitor as he is, he’s an even better teammate and representative of his community.

“Dreshaun is a rarity,” Thompson said. “He is obviously an excellent athlete who takes all of this seriously, but this is still fun for him. He is out there cutting up with his teammates.

“This is only the start. He’s going to get bigger...and better.”

DES MOINES — Damarion Ross and Dreshaun Ross living room and have wrestled in the state finals before — hypothetical- pretending like we were ly speaking. in the state finals...

Now, the dream is about to become a reality. crazy how we’re The Ross brothers, along 515•576•4991 with fellow Dodger Dru actually here now.”

Ayala, reached the finals at the state tournament here on DAMARION ROSS www.messengernews.net Friday.

The Dodgers will Fort Dodge junior, on have multiple athletes in Saturday night’s championship reaching the gold-medal round round for the ninth consecutive year. life and it’s finally time,’’ Ayala (113 pounds) will Damarion said. “I remember wrestle in the finals for the wrestling my brothers in the second consecutive season. living room and pretending The Ross siblings — Damar- like we were in the state fiion, a junior, and Dreshaun, nals...crazy how we’re actua freshman — will make ally here now.” their debuts on the big stage.

This marks the sixth time “Reaching the state finals is awesome. I’ve been workSee DODGERS, Page 3B ing for this most of my By for CHRIS JOHNSON

Algona......................................42 Bishop Garrigan........................42 Clarion-Goldfield/Dows............32 Eagle Grove..............................36 East Sac County........................38 Greene County.........................44 Humboldt..................................24 Manson NW Webster...............30 Newell-Fonda............................21 Pocahontas Area.......................26 South Central Calhoun..............40 Southeast Valley.......................22 Webster City.............................34 West Bend-Mallard...................46

See DAYTONA, Page 7B

sports@messengernews.net

sports@messengernews.net

✓Licensed ✓Bonded ✓Insured on the mat at the district tournament on Jeff Orres - 515-570-4266 | John Gailey - 515-570-7475 Saturday, and the entire group punched

u E-MAIL: sports@messengernews.net

With the new format and eight additional wrestlers at each weight, the top-eight seeds receive first round byes.

Dodgers earned first u round byes for EDITOR: Chris Johnson u SPORTS WRITER: Dana Becker u PHOTOGRAPHER: Britt Kudla uThe SPORTS EDITOR: Eric six Pratt ASST. SPORTS the state tournament which begins Wednesday in Des Moines inside Wells Fargo Arena.

Ayala (34-2) is ranked second at 113 pounds. The three-time state qualifier and two—Messenger photo by Britt Kudla time medalist will face the winner of No. 17 FORT DODGE’S MAX BISHOP WRESTLES against Le Mars’ Brock Hessenius in the 120 pound final Saturday in the Dodger gym. For more photos, visit CU See STATE, Page 11 at messengernews.net

their respective state tickets.

Sam Davidson (106), Rylee Brown u E-MAIL: sports@messengernews.net (132), Jesse Egli (152) and Dreshaun Ross (195) will all take part in this week’s state tournament.

“I’m really impressed with what they accomplished,” said Fort Dodge head coach Bobby Thompson. “They came

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See FDSH, Page 14

2

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

FORT DODGE BOYS BASKETBALL

Dodgers focusing on steady growth

Willie Williams

By ERIC PRATT sports@messengernews.net

A long and frustrating dry spell has the Fort Dodge boys basketball program hungrier than ever heading into this season.

Third-year head coach Willie Williams is looking to rekindle the competitive fire that once had the Dodgers contending on a nightly basis. The last four winters have been particularly arduous, and with only one senior on the roster in 2023-24, FDSH may still be a year away from making waves again.

Don’t tell that to Williams, though. The 2011 graduate — a former standout Dodger player himself — wants his squad to ramp up the expectations both in the community and, more importantly, his own camp.

“They want to win and they don’t want to wait,” Williams said. “The desire is there. They’re angry and frustrated over (recent records) and they expect to do something about it. That all starts with holding each other accountable.

“You have to think (in the present). And you can’t worry about what you don’t have. Of course we’d like to be bigger (size-wise) and have (more upperclassmen). But I’m not going to dwell on that, because it (discredits) the kids in our locker room. They’re the ones putting in the work, traveling miles in the offseason, hitting the weights.

They want to be the group that turns things around for Dodger basketball.”

Three starters and a key reserve return for Fort Dodge, which will lean heavily on its guards and athleticism to mask potential depth and size concerns in the months ahead.

BACKCOURT The Dodgers aren’t short on players who identify as shooters and scorers. Junior regulars Cade Westerhoff, Carter Woodruff

HEAD COACH

3rd year ROSTER Senior Ty Adams.................... 6-2, G Juniors Drake Warland............ 5-9, G Carter Woodruff.......... 5-9, G Cade Westerhoff......... 6-2, G Jase Nekvinda.............. 6-0, F Jackson McQuillen....... 6-3, F Sophomores Tytrell Mosley............. 5-8, G Hayden Zuspann....... 5-11, G Taevon Feeley............. 6-1, G Carter Morris............ 5-10, G Gavin Davis................. 5-2, G Kauner Jensen.............. 6-1, F

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

FORT DODGE BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM MEMBERS are, front row (left to right): Taevon Feeley, Carter Woodruff, Gavin Davis, Tytrell Mosley, Jamarius Gibbs-Green and Drake Warland. Back: Hayden Zuspann, Cade Westerhoff, Jackson McQuillen, Kauner Jensen and Ty Adams. Not pictured: Jase Nekvinda and Carter Morris.

and Drake Warland are all back, along with senior Ty Adams and sophomore Tytrell Mosley.

“They’ve all gotten bigger and better. More confident,” Williams said. “It’s just a matter of consistency now. All of them showed flashes and were in a tough spot as (first-year varsity players last winter). But that experience will make them better, now that they know what to expect.”

Westerhoff averaged 7.8 points and 4.1 rebounds a year ago.

Woodruff was at 3.9 and 2.5; Warland, 4.6 and 2.5; and Adams, 3.9 and 2.1.

Mosley saw limited action as a freshman, but is another player ready to take a step forward, according to Williams.

“They all have their strengths, but they still have plenty to work

on, too,” Williams said. “Carter and Tytrell will run the point.

Cade, Drake and Ty will be wings.

Again, it’s going to be about bringing it night in and night out as far as whether or not we’re able to (turn a corner) as a team.”

Junior Jamarius Gibbs-Green, sophomore Hayden Zuspann, sophomore Taevon Feeley and sophomore Gavin Davis are also in the mix and jostling for minutes.

“We’re going to have to play to our strengths, which is being fast and guard-heavy,” Williams said.

“There are a lot of guys here who could give us productive minutes.

The fight for playing time is healthy and competitive, which is the way it should be.”

foot-3) and Jase Nekvinda (6-0) didn’t see the varsity court last winter. Williams will need their presence immediately in 2023-24, along with 6-1 sophomore Kauner Jensen.

“We don’t have a ‘traditional’ big man,” Williams said. “But Jackson and Kauner are taller and have an opportunity to fill those roles. We’re in need of rebounding and post defense, so their (contributions) will be important to what we’re doing.

“Jase missed last season, but it’s good to have him back. His motor is relentless, even though he’s undersized. We want all of these guys to push and earn their minutes.”

FRONTCOURT Juniors Jackson McQuillen (6-

See FD BOYS, Page 3

SCHEDULE Nov. 27 — at Boone; 28 — Clear Lake.

Dec. 1 — Ames; 5 — at Des Moines Lincoln; 8 — at Waterloo East; 14 — Humboldt; 15 — at Marshalltown; 18 — Spencer.

Jan. 2 — at Sioux City West; 4 — Sioux City East; 5 — Mason City; 9 — at Des Moines East; 16 — Des Moines Roosevelt; 19 — at Ames; 22 — Des Moines East; 25 — at Perry; 26 — Waterloo East; 29 — at Urbandale; 30 — Des Moines North.

Feb. 2 — Marshalltown; 6 — at Mason City.

CONTACT US:

sports@messengernews.net

Phone: (515) 573-2141 (Ext. 435, 436 or 438) Twitter: @ByEricPratt @ChrisJohnson_17 @DanaBecker

www.messengernews.net

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

3

FORT DODGE BOYS BASKETBALL

FD BOYS, Continued from Page 2 Defense is a big point of emphasis for Williams heading into the upcoming campaign.

“We need to get stops,” Williams said. “If you look back, there were just way too many times we gave up long, extended runs (in 2022-23). It’s hard to stay in games when that happens, and it has to start on the defensive end.”

SCHEDULE AND COACHES The Iowa Alliance Conference’s Northern Division was dominated last season by Ames and Waterloo East.

“Ames has the tradition and the mentality that we should all (emulate),” Williams said. “They have a great coaching staff and system. Waterloo East, Marshalltown and Mason City can stay the same. We have a lot of tradition and history (in our side of the league).”

The Little Cyclones were 8-1 in the IAC North last season and 17-8 overall after advancing to the Class 4A state tournament. Waterloo East (8-1, 13-9), Marshalltown (12-10, 4-5) and Mason City (6-15, 2-7) followed.

Fort Dodge tips off Monday at Boone. The Dodgers’ home opener is Tuesday against defending North Central Conference champion and 2023 state tournament qualifier Clear Lake.

Williams admits “I’m learning more about myself as a coach and as a leader every day.”

“I love our kids so much, and I want to be there for them no matter what,” Williams said. “I like seeing kids who want to compete for each other and buy into the system.

That’s the goal. For them to believe in our staff and work hard under any circumstances Messenger file photo for the guy standing next to them.”

Williams will again be assisted by Charles Clayton, Tyler Winter, Jordan Jackson, CADE WESTERHOFF drives to the basket for Fort Dodge in a game at Marshalltown Bryan Friedrichs and Damien Miller. last season. Westerhoff, a junior, is the squad’s leading returning scorer.

4

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

FORT DODGE GIRLS BASKETBALL

Dodgers ready to push the tempo

By ERIC PRATT sports@messengernews.net

The Fort Dodge girls basketball team is adjusting to a different gameplan and rotation in the early stages of the 2023-24 campaign.

The Dodgers’ expectations, however, remain exactly the same.

Head coach Scott Messerly’s squad wants to parlay last year’s 12-win campaign — the program’s best in over a decade — into another successful season this winter.

“I think, top to bottom, we’re going to be a good squad before all is said and done,” said Messerly, who is in his sixth year at the helm. “We just have to make some adjustments both in our style of play and the roles we’re expecting from our returning players.

“We have a lot of familiar faces back, but it’s going to be a different look.”

Last season, Fort Dodge was anchored by senior post players Lainey Maehl and Paytene Hiveley. The Dodgers were more grind and grit, with the first team all-Iowa Alliance Conference duo combining to average over 26 points and 19 rebounds per contest. Both Maehl (17th) and Hiveley (23rd) graduated as Top25 career scorers at FDSH. With a smaller, more athletic group in the stable for 2023-24 — led by returning starters LJ Maehl, Mackenzie McIlrath and Meah McCaleb and top reserve Ashlyn Wills — Messerly is

HEAD COACH Scott Messerly 6th year ROSTER Senior Mackenzie McIlrath............5-9, G Destinee Phillips................5-2, G Juniors Meah McCaleb...................5-6, G Ashlyn Wills................... 5-4, G/F Brooklyn Pommer...............5-7, F Edyn Witham.....................5-6, G Janelle Long........................5-8, F Sophomores LJ Maehl..............................6-0, F Dakota Pommer.................5-8, G Freshmen Addison Lentsch................5-4, G Maddisen Hoshaw..............5-9, F

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

FORT DODGE GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM MEMBERS are, front row (left to right): Dakota Pommer, Edyn Witham, Destinee Phillips and Janelle Long. Back: Meah McCaleb, Mackenzie McIlrath, LJ Maehl, Brooklyn Pommer and Ashlyn Wills.

crafting a faster, more full-court style of basketball.

“We’re not big and we’re not deep,” Messerly said. “But we still have a lot of strengths and

SALES SERVICE RENTALS

potential that we’ll keep building from as things progress.”

Fort Dodge has a combined record of 29-33 in its last three seasons. The Dodgers’ 12-10

record last year was their best since 2010-11.

See FD GIRLS, Page 28

SCHEDULE Nov. 27 — at Boone.

Dec. 1 — Ames; 4 — Des Moines Hoover; 5 — at Des Moines Lincoln; 8 — at Waterloo East; 14 — Humboldt; 15 — at Marshalltown; 18 — Spencer.

Jan. 4 — Sioux City East; 5 — Mason City; 9 — at Des Moines East; 11 — at Des Moines North; 16 — Des Moines Roosevelt; 19 — at Ames; 22 — Des Moines East; 25 — at Storm Lake; 26 — Waterloo East; 29 — at Urbandale; 30 — Des Moines North.

Feb. 2 — Marshalltown; 6 — at Mason City.

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

FORT DODGE DODGER BASKETBALL

Girls Varsity Basketball Winter 2023-24 Schedule

11/27 12/1 12/4 12/5 12/8 12/14 12/15 12/18 1/4 1/5 1/9 1/11 1/16 1/19 1/22 1/25 1/26 1/29 1/30 2/2 2/6

6:00p 6:15p 6:15p 6:15p 6:15p 6:00p 6:15p 6:00p 6:15p 6:15p 6:15p 6:15p 6:15p 6:15p 6:15p 7:30p 6:15p 6:15p 6:15p 6:15p 6:15p

@ Boone (Boone, IA) vs Ames (Ames, IA) vs Hoover (Des Moines, IA) @ Lincoln (Des Moines, IA) @ Waterloo East (Waterloo, IA) vs Humboldt (Humboldt, IA) @ Marshalltown (Marshalltown, IA) vs Spencer (Spencer, IA) vs Sioux City East (Sioux City, IA) vs Mason City (Mason City, IA) @ Des Moines East (Des Moines, IA) @ Des Moines North (Des Moines, IA) vs Roosevelt (Des Moines, IA) @ Ames (Ames, IA) vs Des Moines East (Des Moines, IA) @ Storm Lake (Storm Lake, IA) vs Waterloo East (Waterloo, IA) @ Urbandale (Urbandale, IA) vs Des Moines North (Des Moines, IA) vs Marshalltown (Marshalltown, IA) @ Mason City (Mason City, IA)

Boys Varsity Basketball Winter 2023-24 Schedule

11/21 11/27 11/28 12/1 12/5 12/8 12/12 12/14 12/15 12/18 1/2 1/4 1/5 1/9 1/16 1/19 1/22 1/25 1/26 1/29 1/30 2/2 2/6

7:00p 7:30p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p 7:30p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p 7:30p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p 7:45p

@ Ballard (Huxley, IA) @ Boone (Boone, IA) vs Clear Lake (Clear Lake, IA) vs Ames (Ames, IA) @ Lincoln (Des Moines, IA) @ Waterloo East (Waterloo, IA) vs Hoover (Des Moines, IA) vs Humboldt (Humboldt, IA) @ Marshalltown (Marshalltown, IA) vs Spencer (Spencer, IA) @ Sioux City West (Sioux City, IA) vs Sioux City East (Sioux City, IA) vs Mason City (Mason City, IA) @ Des Moines East (Des Moines, IA) vs Roosevelt (Des Moines, IA) @ Ames (Ames, IA) vs Des Moines East (Des Moines, IA) @ Perry (Perry, IA) vs Waterloo East (Waterloo, IA) @ Urbandale (Urbandale, IA) vs Des Moines North (Des Moines, IA) vs Marshalltown (Marshalltown, IA) @ Mason City (Mason City, IA)

Proud Sponsors of the Dodgers

Compete 148 North 9th Street Phone Fort Dodge, IA 50501 (515)-576-5145

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2019

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6

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

ST. EDMOND BOYS BASKETBALL

HEAD COACH Adolph Kochendorfer 31st year

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

ST. EDMOND BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM MEMBERS are, front row (left to right): manager Landon Saathoff, Jack McElroy, Jackson Calvert, Ty Mericle, JT Laufersweiler, Thomas Cosgrove, Sam Mericle, Thomas Knobbe, Jamison Baker, Griffin Laufersweiler and manager Alex Wirtz. Back: Adolph Kochendorfer, Evan Christiansen, Carter Kirkegaard, Grant Galles, Jacob Nieland, Andrew Clavey, Hunter Horn, Elias Kolacia, Drake Vandi, Anthony Valles, assistant Mitchell Rasmussen and assistant Pat O’Rourke.

Gael boys carry high hopes into year

By DANA BECKER dbecker@messengernews.net

Following an extended run of success that included multiple state tournament appearances and trips to the championship round, the St. Edmond boys have been stuck in a recent uphill battle.

Over the past four years, the Gaels have failed to reach doubledigits in the win column, going just 5-18 a season ago.

But with some key pieces returning to the fold and the addition of a legitimate post player, things are looking up for SEHS and veteran head coach Adolph Kochendorfer.

Starters JT Laufersweiler, Sam Mericle and Jack McElroy are back, along with varsity regulars Thomas Cosgrove, Grant Galles and Elias Kolacia. Sophomore

Hunter Horn, who saw the court last year for Fort Dodge Senior High, enters the fray with his 6-foot-4 presence inside.

Jakob Koopman, who was projected for regular minutes before a football injury sidelined him last season, also returns along with Andrew Clavey, Jamison Baker, and cross country standout Anthony Valles.

“The kids have been working hard,” said Kochendorfer, who has a career record of 557-307.

“We’ve really been stressing drill work and sticking to that.

We have some talent this year and more basketball experience compared to previous seasons, so hopefully that allows us to be a deeper team.

“It’s really just about finding that consistency from them and continuing to work on the important things.”

Laufersweiler set numerous St. Edmond football records over his career and will look to carry that momentum onto the hardwood.

He had 138 points with 107 rebounds, 77 assists and 17 steals last year.

Mericle, a returing all-league performer, was second on the team in scoring as a junior with 370 points, hitting 38 triples to go along with a team-high 119 rebounds, 33 assists, 19 steals and six blocks.

In the fall, Cosgrove helped the Gaels reach state cross country once again, bringing that experience with him after seeing the court in a dozen games last year.

“Those seniors are giving us great leadership,” Kochendorfer said. “They are confident in what they bring to the team.”

Clavey and Kolacia made

16 combined appearances as sophomores, with Kolacia scoring 14 points and making one start.

“Andrew can shoot the ball,” Kochendorfer said. “He’s really had to battle through a lot in terms of injuries, but he’s been looking pretty good early on.”

McElroy was inserted into the starting lineup from the get-go, recording 152 points with 105 rebounds, 54 assists and 17 steals while sinking 14 triples. Galles, a record-setting wide receiver in the fall, played in 23 games with 53 points, 36 boards, 15 assists and 10 steals.

“Jack tore it up early last season before hitting a bit of a wall there,” Kochendorfer said.

“It’s a long season and it can wear on you, especially in the conference we play in against that physical style.

“Grant is a kid that came on

ROSTER Seniors Thomas Cosgrove.................6-0, G JT Laufersweiler................. 6-2, G/F Sam Mericle...................... 6-2, G/F Juniors Andrew Clavey.................. 6-1, F/G Elias Kolacia...................... 6-3, F/C Sophomores Jamison Baker.....................5-11, G Grant Galles..........................6-0, G Hunter Horn...................... 6-4, F/C Jakob Koopman................. 6-1, G/F Jack McElroy.........................6-0, G Anthony Valles................ 5-11, G/F Jackson Calvert.....................6-0, G Thomas Knobbe...................6-0, G Drake Vandi..........................6-0, G Freshmen Ty Mericle.............................6-0, G Jacob Nieland.................... 6-1, F/C Griffin Laufersweiler............5-10, G Carter Kirkegaard................5-10, G Evan Christiansen..................6-2, F SCHEDULE Nov. 27 — at Bishop Garrigan.

Dec. 1 — Clarion-Goldfield/ Dows; 5 — Southeast Valley; 7 — at South Hamilton; 8 — at Humboldt; 12 — Webster City; 15 — at Clear Lake; 19 — Iowa Falls-Alden.

Jan. 5 — at Algona; 8 — Eagle Grove; 11 — Manson NW; 12 — at Hampton-Dumont/CAL; 16 — at Clarion-Goldfield/Dows; 19 — Humboldt; 23 — at Webster City; 25 — West Bend-Mallard; 26 — Clear Lake; 30 — at Iowa Falls-Alden.

Feb. 1 — Pocahontas Area; 2 — Algona; 6 — Hampton-Dumont/CAL.

late last year and is also coming off a big football season. We’ve really seen his confidence grow.”

Horn played in four games for the Dodgers as a freshman. He is the son of Iowa Central head volleyball coach Sara Horn and Triton head athletic trainer Guy Horn.

See SE BOYS, Page 29

www.messengernews.net

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

7

2023 – 2024

St. Edmond GAELS BASKETBALL Girls Basketball Schedule

Date

Time

Opponent(s)

11/21

6:15p

@ Bishop Garrigan (Algona, IA) *

12/1

6:15p

12/5

Boys Basketball Schedule

Location

Date

Time

Opponent(s)

Bishop Garrigan High School

11/27

7:30p

@ Bishop Garrigan (Algona, IA) *

Clarion-Goldfield/DOWS (Clarion, IA)

St. Edmond High School

12/1

7:45p

Clarion-Goldfield/DOWS (Clarion, IA) *

St. Edmond High School

6:15p

Southeast Valley (Gowrie, IA)

St. Edmond High School

12/5

7:45p

Southeast Valley (Gowrie, IA)

St. Edmond High School

12/7

6:00p

@ South Hamilton (Jewell, IA)

South Hamilton High School

12/7

7:30p

@ South Hamilton (Jewell, IA)

South Hamilton High School

12/8

6:15p

@ Humboldt (Humboldt, IA) *

Humboldt High School

12/8

7:45p

@ Humboldt (Humboldt, IA) *

Humboldt High School

12/12

6:15p

Webster City (Webster City, IA)

St. Edmond High School

12/12

7:45p

Webster City (Webster City, IA) *

St. Edmond High School

12/15

6:15p

@ Clear Lake (Clear Lake, IA) *

Clear Lake High School

12/15

7:45p

@ Clear Lake (Clear Lake, IA) *

Clear Lake High School

12/19

6:15p

Iowa Falls-Alden (Iowa Falls, IA) *

St. Edmond High School

12/19

7:45p

Iowa Falls-Alden (Iowa Falls, IA) *

St. Edmond High School

1/5

6:15p

@ Algona (Algona, IA) *

Algona High School

12/21

6:00p

@ Bishop Garrigan (Algona, IA) *

Bishop Garrigan High School-Algona

1/8

6:15p

Eagle Grove (Eagle Grove, IA) *

St. Edmond High School

1/5

7:45p

@ Algona (Algona, IA) *

1/15

6:00p

@ St. Mary’s (Remsen, IA)

Storm Lake St. Mary’s

1/8

7:45p

Eagle Grove (Eagle Grove, IA) *

1/16

6:15p

@ Clarion-Goldfield/DOWS (Clarion, IA)

Clarion-Goldfield/DOWS High School

1/16

7:45p

@ Clarion-Goldfield/DOWS (Clarion, IA) *

1/19

6:15p

Humboldt (Humboldt, IA) *

St. Edmond High School

1/19

7:45p

Humboldt (Humboldt, IA) *

St. Edmond High School

1/23

6:15p

@ Webster City (Webster City, IA)

Webster City High School

1/23

7:45p

@ Webster City (Webster City, IA) *

Webster City High School

1/25

6:15p

West Bend-Mallard (West Bend, IA)

St. Edmond High School

1/25

7:45p

West Bend-Mallard (West Bend, IA)

St. Edmond High School

1/26

6:15p

Clear Lake (Clear Lake, IA) *

St. Edmond High School

1/26

7:45p

Clear Lake (Clear Lake, IA) *

St. Edmond High School

1/30

6:15p

@ Iowa Falls-Alden (Iowa Falls, IA) *

Iowa Falls-Alden High School

1/30

7:45p

@ Iowa Falls-Alden (Iowa Falls, IA) *

2/2

6:15p

Algona (Algona, IA) *

St. Edmond High School

2/2

7:45p

Algona (Algona, IA) *

Good Luck HaveThis aGood great season!

Season!

Luck This Season!

Location Bishop Garrigan High School

Algona High School St. Edmond High School Clarion-Goldfield/DOWS High School

Iowa Falls-Alden High School St. Edmond High School

307 S. 12th Street Fort Dodge

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2019

8

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

ST. EDMOND GIRLS BASKETBALL

HEAD COACH CJ Tracy 4th year ROSTER Seniors Michaela Leiting....................5-5, G Silvia Heldorfer................. 5-7, G/F Kaili Henning.........................5-4, G Maya Neverman....................5-9, F Juniors Payton Bradley......................5-5, G Braelynn Rees........................5-6, F Josie Harvey...................... 5-7, F/G Sophomores Anna Lursen.........................5-6, G Maggie Flaherty................ 5-8, F/G Ava Underberg.......................5-9, F Ava Andrew.......................... 5-7, C Freshmen Chloe Palmer........................5-6, G Sophia Schlienz....................5-4, G Abby Huss........................ 5-7, G/F Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

ST. EDMOND GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM MEMBERS are, front row (left to right): Chloe Palmer, Braelynn Rees, Kaili Henning, Payton Bradley, Sophia Schlienz, Michaela Leiting and Anna Lursen. Back: head coach CJ Tracy, Abby Huss, Silvia Heldorfer, Ava Underberg, Maggie Flaherty, Maya Neverman, Ava Andrew, Josie Harvey and assistant Shawn Neverman.

Gaels look for breakthrough on the court

By DANA BECKER dbecker@messengernews.net

It has been eight long seasons since the St. Edmond girls finished with a winning record.

And while that might not seem like much of a goal for some programs, it is definitely one that Gael head coach CJ Tracy would love to achieve.

While the results did not equate to wins last year, Tracy was able to provide plenty of key minutes to several players who will all be counted on this season along with three newcomers from the freshman class.

“These seniors hold a special place because they were the first group of freshmen I had when I took over the varsity job,” Tracy

said. “They have been with the program all four years and have been a fun group to be around.

They have put in a lot of time and effort into the sport and we want to send them out with as many wins as we can.”

Four players are gone from last year, with two of those being regular starters in Anna Kolacia and Lauren Gibb. Injuries limited the other two — Katie Flaherty and Klara Baker — to six games combined.

Those back with starting experience include seniors Michaela Leiting, Silvia Heldorfer, Kaili Henning and Maya Neverman, junior Josie Harvey and sophomore Anna Lursen.

Juniors Payton Bradley and Braelynn Rees, along with

sophomores Maggie Flaherty, Ava Underberg and Ava Andrew, all saw the court in at least 15 games last season.

“We’ve got a good nucleus coming back that know what to expect, and that all starts with those seniors,” Tracy said. “They are excellent leaders on the court and in practice. They have an excellent work ethic that has really carried over to the entire team.”

Leiting has reached state in her last two sport seasons of softball and cross country. She started four games and played in 22 last year.

She had 25 points scored with 41 rebounds, 14 assists, 14 steals and four blocks.

Heldorfer, a multi-year starter, posted 30 points with 79 boards, 29 assists, eight blocks and seven steals while taking on the opposing

teams top player many nights.

Henning, the starting pitcher for the St. Edmond softball squad that reached state, knocked down a team-leading 13 three-pointers last year with 52 points and 31 rebounds. Neverman played in 21 games and had 12 points with 39 boards.

“One of them said in practice that we are going to win some games this year,” Tracy said.

“That is the positive attitude they have and bring.”

Harvey started 13 games and played in all 22, scoring 91 points with 79 rebounds, 30 steals, 14 assists and nine blocks. She was one of the more effective SEHS players in getting to the free throw line, attempting 31 shots there.

Bradley played in all 22 games with 29 points, 32 rebounds, 12

SCHEDULE Dec. 1 — Clarion-Goldfield/ Dows; 5 — Southeast Valley; 7 — at South Hamilton; 8 — at Humboldt; 12 — Webster City; 15 — at Clear Lake; 19 — Iowa Falls-Alden.

Jan. 5 — at Algona; 8 — Eagle Grove; 11 — Manson NW; 12 — at Hampton-Dumont/CAL; 16 — at Clarion-Goldfield/Dows; 19 — Humboldt; 23 — at Webster City; 25 — West Bend-Mallard; 26 — Clear Lake; 30 — at Iowa Falls-Alden.

Feb. 1 — Pocahontas Area; 2 — Algona; 6 — Hampton-Dumont/CAL.

assists, nine blocks and six steals.

She found plenty of success over the summer in helping the Gael softball program.

Rees saw the court in 17 games and offers an inside presence.

“All three of those juniors do a little something different for us,” Tracy said. “Like the seniors, they are working hard to set the tone for the team.”

Despite being listed at just 5-foot-6, Lursen led the Gaels in total rebounds last year with 106.

See SE GIRLS, Page 29

www.messengernews.net

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

9

10

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

FORT DODGE WRESTLING

HEAD COACH Bobby Thompson 19th year

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

FORT DODGE WRESTLING TEAM MEMBERS are, front row (left to right): Noah Essman, Juan Cruz, Carsten Grady, Zander Jones, Sam Moser, Caesar Carillo, Mason Bolton, Trace Rial, Angel Sandoval, Charles Evans, Michael Kintigh and Noe Gonzalez. Middle: Jessenia Elias, Carlos Elias, Joe Constable, Keaton Hawkins, Jesse Egli, Dru Ayala, Kane Butrick, Sam Davidson, Rylee Brown, Caiden Fraher, Hunter Kasperbauer, Raily Samoyoa, John Phan and Jonaya Foy. Back: Cody Montgomery, Bo Marsh, Alex Beekman, Koy Davidson, Cal Hartman, Damarion Ross, Dreshaun Ross, Hunter Richardson, Bo Cowell, Luke Fierke, Jayce Skow and Landon Rogers.

Dodgers gearing up for another run

By CHRIS JOHNSON cjohnson@messengernews.net

The Fort Dodge wrestling team has the firepower to bring back some state hardware yet again this coming season.

With nine state qualifiers and five medalists back, this year’s group has grabbed control of the reins and made an early statement.

“They’re motivated to bring some hardware back from Des

Moines,” said 19th-year FDSH head coach Bobby Thompson.

“They’ve talked about figuring out weights in the lineup and reaching their potential.

“As long as we compete to the best of our ability, we will be right there near the top (in the 3A team race) again.”

The difference this season is Thompson’s group will go into the season with a lineup that is nearly set. Facing a grueling schedule that includes the Donnybrook,

Council Bluffs Classic, Don Miller Invitational and a dual tournament in Kansas City, relative progress is essential.

“Our big thing is to stay healthy,” Thompson said. “Our numbers aren’t great, so we have to try and avoid injury as much as possible.”

The leadership channel is deep in FDSH history. This year’s core group includes state medalists and seniors Dru Ayala (stater runner-up in 2023), Damarion Ross (runner-

up), Cal Hartman (seventh), junior Koy Davidson (fourth), and state champion Dreshaun Ross, who is back for his sophomore campaign.

Senior Kane Butrick joins sophomores Sam Davidson, Rylee Brown, and Jesse Egli as other grapplers in the state hunt.

“Leadership has always trended through the families at Fort Dodge.

Through the Birnbaums, Laras, See FD MAT, Page 20

Mark Hartman, DPM, FACFAS Brian Hamm, DPM, FACFAS Kelsey Sukavoty DPM, ABPM 55+ years of combined experience

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ROSTER Seniors Dru Ayala, Kane Butrick, Bo Cowell, Cal Hartman, Landon Rogers, Damarion Ross, Raily Samayoa.

Juniors Caesar Carillo, Koy Davidson, Juan Cruz, Carlos Elias, John Phan, Hunter Richardson.

Sophomores Rylee Brown, Sam Davidson, Jesse Egli, Luke Fierke, Caiden Fraher, Hunter Kasperbauer, Michael Kintigh, Dreshaun Ross, Angel Sandoval.

Freshmen Alex Beekman, Mason Bolton, Joe Constable, Noah Essman, Charles Evans, Noe Gonzales, Keaton Hawkins, Zander Jones, Bo Marsh, Cody Montgomery, Sam Moser, Trace Rial, Jayce Skow.

SCHEDULE Dec. 1-2 — at Donnybrook in Coralville; 7 — at Des Moines North (North, East, Waterloo East); 8-9 — at Council Bluffs Classic; 12 — Des Moines Lincoln, Des Moines Roosevelt; 16 — Don Miller Invitational; 23 — at St. Pius X Warrior Duals (Kansas City).

Jan. 4 — at Waterloo East, Ankeny Centennial; 6 — Mendenhall Tournament (at Ames); 11 — Ames; 13 — at J-Hawk Invitational (at Cedar Rapids); 18 — at Marshalltown; 20 — at Urbandale Tournament; 23 — at Mason City; 27 — at Des Moines North (IAC Tourney).

SAME DAY

APPOINTMENTS

NO REFERRALS NEEDED

www.messengernews.net

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa

Friday, Dec. 1

Noon

Donnybrook

Xtream Arena

Saturday, Dec. 2

10:00 am

Donnybrook

Xtream Arena

Thursday, Dec. 7

5:00 pm

Conference Tri

North High School

Friday, Dec. 8

Noon

Tournament

Mid-America Center

Saturday, Dec. 9

9:30 am

CB Wrestling Classic

Mid-America Center

Tuesday, Dec. 12

5:30 pm

Conference Tri

Fort Dodge Senior High School

Saturday, Dec. 16

10:00 am

Don Miller Invitational

Fort Dodge Senior High School

Saturday, Dec. 23

10:00 am

St. Plus X Warrior Duals

Thursday, Jan. 4

5:30 pm

Conference Tri

Saturday, Jan. 6

9:00 am

St. Edmund Duals St. Edmond Catholic K-12 School HS Gym

Saturday, Jan. 6

10:00 am

Mendenhall Wrestling Tournament

Thursday, Jan. 11

5:30 pm

Saturday, Jan. 13

10:00 am

Thursday, Jan. 18

6:30 pm

Marshalltown High School

Saturday, Jan. 20

9:00 am

Urbandale High School North Gym

Thursday, Jan. 23

6:30 pm

Mason City High School Main Gym

Saturday, Jan. 27

10:00 am

Girls Wrestling Tuesday, Dec. 5 4:00 pm Thursday, Dec. 7 5:00 pm Friday, Dec. 8 12:00 pm Saturday, Dec. 9 9:30 am Friday, Dec. 15 5:00 pm Tuesday, Dec. 19 5:00 pm Saturday, Jan. 6 10:00 am Thursday, Jan. 11 5:30 pm Saturday, Jan. 13 10:00 am Thursday, Jan. 18 5:30 pm Saturday, Jan. 20 10:00 am

Waterloo East High School FJM GYM

Ames High School

Fort Dodge Senior High School Main Gym Jefferson High School Main Gym

Conference Tournament

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Waverly-Shell Rock HS East HS Mid-America Center Mid-America Center Fort Dodge HS West Marshall HS West Central Valley West Central Valley HS Fort Dodge HS Waukee NW Invite Northwest HS IAC Girls Conference Meet Fort Dodge HS Northern Iowa Tournament Mason City HS

Tuesday, Nov. 28 5:30pm Thursday, Nov 30 5:30 pm Saturday, Dec. 2 10:00 am Thursday, Dec. 7 5:30 pm Tuesday, Dec. 12 5:00 pm Thursday, Dec. 14 5:30 pm Thursday, Jan 4 5:30 pm Thursday, Jan 11 5:30 pm

at Fort Dodge Senior High School at Lincoln High School at Boon High School at Roosevelt High School at Southeast Polk High School at Fort Dodge Senior High School at Fort Dodge Senior High School at Ames High School Dan Flannery Pool

Saturday, Jan 13 10:00 am

(Rusty Garst Invitational) at Fort Dodge Senior High School

Saturday, Jan 20 10:00 am

(Conference Meet) at Ames High School Dan Flannery Pool

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Fort Dodge Wrestling & Swimming Schedule

Boys Wrestling

J-Hawk Invite

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

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ST. EDMOND WRESTLING

HEAD COACH Eugene Carlson 6th year ROSTER Seniors Zach Rossmanith...................190 Juniors Adam Walker.........................215 Dominic McClain...................165 Sam Myer..............................138 Sophomores Kinnick Henning....................126 Freshmen Andrew Horrell......................157 Grant Anderson.....................175 George Kelley........................165 Dallas Groves.........................157

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

ST. EDMOND WRESTLING TEAM MEMBERS are (left to right): assistant Kaden McClintock, head coach Eugene Carlson, Sam Myer, Dallas Groves, George Kelley, Zach Rossmanith, Adam Walker, Grant Anderson, Kinnick Henning and Andrew Horrell. Not pictured: Dominic McClain.

Gaels aim to build confidence on the mat

By DANA BECKER dbecker@messengernews.net

If there was one attribute Eugene Carlson could give to each of his St. Edmond wrestlers, it would be confidence.

Confidence that they can win matches. Confidence that they can improve. Confidence that they can become a key piece to the growth of the program.

“As always with St. Edmond wrestling, it is a work in progress,” Carlson said. “As the head coach, my No. 1 job is getting these kids to believe in themselves.

Our upperclassmen have a lot of skill and experience now, and that should transfer over to more success.

“For the new guys, it is going to be a difficult battle — especially in the North Central Conference.

But I like what I see out of them, and what they could become in the future.”

It all starts with Zach Rossmanith and returning state qualifier Sam Myer. Rossmanith, the lone senior, is a veteran of the room while Myer, a junior, won a district title and placed second at the NCC meet last winter.

“Zach and Sam have high expectations for themselves,” Carlson said. “Zach has really progressed as far as his strength, perseverance and work ethic since his freshman season.

“Some might view him as a darkhorse to qualify for state, but I think he has a very good

“As the head coach, my No. 1 job is getting these kids to believe in themselves.”

EUGENE CARLSON

St. Edmond head coach

opportunity to do that and have quite a bit of success. I don’t see him as a long shot or underdog.”

Last year, Rossmanith posted a record of 12-12 and was sixth at the NCC meet.

Myer, meanwhile, finished with a 19-9 record to lead the way for the Gaels.

“That success Sam experienced

has only made him work harder — and he’s always been a hard worker,” Carlson said. “But it also matured him as a person and a wrestler. He’s become a great leader for this team.”

Junior Adam Walker won 13 matches and scored a fall at districts in 2022-23, with sophomore Kinnick Henning winning seven times and advancing to the district semifinals, where he placed fourth.

“Those are two kids we are looking to take that next step,” Carlson said. “Adam has shown glimpses of being a dominant wrestler, and Kinnick scored takedowns against state qualifiers last year in matches. He just has to believe in himself, because I know he can do it.”

SCHEDULE Dec. 3 — at Doug Wood Invitational in Manson; 9 — at Bob Roethler Invitational in Emmetsburg; 12 — at North Polk, Saydel; 14 — at Humboldt, Hampton-Dumont/CAL; 16 — at Carroll Invitational; 19 — at Iowa Falls-Alden, Clear Lake.

Jan. 4 — Webster City, Algona; 6 — host St. Edmond Duals Tournament; 13 — at Cougar Invitational in Ackley; 20 — at NCC Tournament in Clear Lake.

Joining the team this year will be junior Dominic McClain, along with ninth-graders Andrew Horrell, Grant Anderson, George Kelley and Dallas Groves.

“Dominic is a terrific athlete and a nice addition,” Carlson said. “He is totally focused and really only needs to improve his technique to find some success.

“With the freshmen, there are going to be nights where we need to have them wrestle JV because that is just where we are as a program. Three of the four have experience from the junior high ranks, though, so they understand many things about this sport.”

The Gaels will host their own dual tournament on Jan. 6, and will head to Clear Lake for the NCC Tournament on Jan. 20.

www.messengernews.net

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

13

2023 – 2024

St. Edmond GAELS WRESTLING BOYS WRESTLING SCHEDULE BOYS VARSITY WRESTLING

LOCATION:

Saturday, Dec 2, 2023

Tournament

10:00AM

A

Manson Northwest Webster High School

Tuesday, Dec 12, 2023

Meet

5:30PM

A

North Polk High School

Saturday, Dec 16, 2023

Tournament

Saturday, Dec 9, 2023

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

Tournament Meet

Tuesday, Dec 19, 2023

Triangular

Saturday, Jan 6, 2024

Invitational

Thursday, Jan 4, 2024 Tuesday, Jan 9, 2024

Saturday, Jan 13, 2024 Saturday, Jan 20, 2024

10:00AM 6:00PM

10:00AM 6:00PM

Triangular

6:00PM

9:00AM

Quad

6:00PM

Tournament

10:00AM

A

A

A

A

H

H A

A

Emmetsburg High School Humboldt High School Carroll High School

Iowa Falls-Alden High School St. Edmond High School

St. Edmond High School Clarion High School

AGWSR High School

NCC Tournament

10:00AM

A

Saturday, Feb 3, 2024

State Dual

TBD

A

Wednesday, Feb 14, 2024

State

TBD

A

Wells Fargo Arena - Des Moines

State

TBD

A

Wells Fargo Arena - Des Moines

Saturday, Jan 27, 2024 Saturday, Feb 10, 2024

Meet

District

Thursday, Feb 15, 2024

State

Saturday, Feb 17, 2024

State

Friday, Feb 16, 2024

10:00AM 10:00AM

TBD

TBD

A

A

A

A

Clear Lake High School

Rockwell City Middle School TBD

TBD

Wells Fargo Arena - Des Moines

Wells Fargo Arena - Des Moines

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2019

14

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

FORT DODGE BOWLING

HEAD COACH Nick Vinson 6th year BOYS ROSTER Seniors — Noah Winninger, Evan Hage, Dylan Crawford, Brian Keenan.

Juniors — Trenton Beck, Josh Jass, Jabek Dunbar.

Sophomores — Orrin Rurup, Leland Sassman, Kody VanValkenburg, Tempest Armstrong, Blake Seeman, Jaxton Jones, Slade Babb, Lium Powers.

Freshman — Nicholas Squire.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

FORT DODGE VARSITY BOWLING TEAM MEMBERS are, front row (left to right): Amyrra Lumsden, Calli Graves, Gabby Flores, Baylee Willson and Samantha Anderson. Back: Samantha Welter, Josh Jass, Brian Keenan, Evan Hage, Dylan Crawford, Noah Winninger and Sol Birkey.

Dodgers trying to keep momentum alive

By CHRIS JOHNSON cjohnson@messengernews.net

The Fort Dodge bowling teams have built a tradition at the lanes, and now, the Dodgers must work to keep that success alive.

The FDSH boys climbed all the way to the top last year, earning the Class 2A state championship as the No. 6 seed.

“There are lots of unknowns until we get into competition,” said Dodger head coach Nick Vinson. “Once we get going, we will see where we are at and make those adjustments so we can learn from them.”

Fort Dodge returns only junior Trenton Beck from the gold-medal squad. The other slots are up for grabs early on.

The Dodger girls will try to keep their streak alive as well, as they have advanced a bowler to the state tournament for four straight seasons.

Senior Gabby Flores is back after qualifying as an individual, along with graduate Aryssa Lumsden.

Beck carried a 200-plus average a year ago, which was the fourth best on the boys side. Beck’s highest series was 471.

Looking to crack the Dodger varsity roster in the boys bracket will be seniors Dylan Crawford, Evan Hage, Noah Winninger and junior Josh Jass.

“This year, we are trying to build around a pretty young team,” Vinson said. “Dylan and Evan are seniors, and they’re focused on getting better.

“Last year we were spoiled. We were very good to start the season.

This year, we have young kids who are inexperienced at bowling.

We need to work on that.”

Crawford saw some varsity action for FDSH a year ago.

Amyrra Lumsden made a splash as a freshman with the thirdhighest game average at 155.

Flores returns as the team leader after sporting a 168 average.

Looking to crack the lineup will be senior Sol Birkey and sophomore Calli Graves, with a fix of others in the action.

Graves (134) and Birkey (123) saw action in 10 and 14 matches, respectively, for the Dodgers last winter.

“I knew Amyrra was going to be good, and I think she has exceeded everyone’s expectations,” Vinson

said. “She’ll be a year stronger now. Calli and Sol are back to fill some leadership spots.

“They are two pretty good leaders along with Gabby, who is a four-year player and two-time individual state qualifier.”

Senior Baylee Willsson, juniors Samantha Anderson and Kaitlyn Folsom, and freshman Samantha Welter are all in the mix for varsity rotation spots as well.

“When we go to meets, it will be about focusing on what we do — good or bad,” Vinson said.

“Moving forward, we have to be better about building and taking inventory of our (standing).

“From there, we start talking about where we are and seeing what we want to work on, like building your score and picking up spares and getting more pins.”

GIRLS ROSTER Seniors — Sol Birkey, Baylee Willson, Gabby Flores, Fillippa Nielsen.

Juniors — Paige Lewis, Gabby Santana-Bass, Samantha Anderson, Kaitlyn Folsom, Felicity Strain.

Sophomores — Alexis Scott, Amyrra Lumsden, Calli Graves, Rebekah Nelson.

Freshmen — Samantha Welter, Natalie Anderson.

SCHEDULE Nov. 27 — at Des Moines Lincoln.

Dec. 4 — Des Moines Hoover, Urbandale; 8 — Emmetsburg, OABCIG; 11 — Des Moines East; 19 — at Waterloo East.

Jan. 4 — Ames, Mason City; 8 — at Marshalltown; 15 — Des Moines North, Greene County; 27 — at Independence Baker Tournament; 30 — at Des Moines.

Feb. 8 — at Waterloo (IAC Tournament).

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

15

Fort Dodge Dodgers Cheerleaders FDSH Varsity Basketball Cheerleaders Kaylee Fraser, Riley Rossow, Gabby Castro, Dannika Hanson, Serenity Brown, Daniela Castillo, Kira Pearson, Taytum Davidson, Chloe Lundberg, Lillie Nekvinda, Ayda Reiter, Brooklyn Barlow, Makinley Nore, Tess Lyon, Camila Lopes, Alivya Rokes, Jayde Naeve, Izzy Prather, Addy Weiss

FDSH Varsity Wrestling Cheerleaders

Kaylee Fraser, Gabby Castro, Lillie Nekvinda, Ayda Reiter, Brooklyn Barlow, Tessa Lyon, Alivya Rokes, Taytum Davidson, Kira Pearson

Photo by Ashton Jean Photography

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FORT DODGE GIRLS WRESTLING

Dodger girls excited for program future

By CHRIS JOHNSON

HEAD COACH Jon Koenig

cjohnson@messengernews.net

Girls wrestling is here to stay.

Last year, Iowa sanctioned the sport for female athletes, making the 2022-23 Fort Dodge Senior High program a part of history.

Four Dodgers competed at the first-ever state event, and three return to the mat this season for the Dodgers.

“We haven’t really changed anything in year two, other than we can work on conditioning more early on because we don’t have to teach as much of the basics,” said FDSH head coach Jon Koenig. “We had some girls get a terrific experience at the state tournament.

“They are ready to return and work toward getting back.”

Four-time state medalist and former champion Alexis Ross graduated and is now at Iowa Central, but seniors Macy Brown and Webster City student Maddie Pulis are back.

“When we were having summer open gyms, Maddie and Macy were showing their senior leadership,” Koenig said. “They know what it takes and what my expectations are.

“We read each other well, which helps when we are working on things to fix.”

Sophomore Mariaha Benedict made a splash as a freshman and is already off to a hot start for the Dodgers this season.

“Those three got a taste at state and want to get back for another experience,” Koenig said. “We will work hard and do what they need to to make that happen, and hopefully, we qualify even more this time around.

Sophomore Alejandra Manzanilla (105 or 110 pounds) was one match from a state spot.

Also back for the Dodgers are seniors Araya Fellers (115), St. Edmond student Andee Barwin (120), juniors Delaney O’Connor

2nd year ROSTER Macy Brown ................................. sr.

Maddie Pulis ................................ sr.

Andee Barwin .............................. sr.

Araya Fellers ................................ sr.

Lucy Porter ...................................jr.

Delaney O’Connor ........................jr.

Alejandra Manzanilla.................... so.

Mariaha Benedict ........................ so.

Gracie Harvey ............................. so.

Kate Feltz .................................... so.

Kaitlynn Van Denmark ..................fr.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

FORT DODGE GIRLS WRESTLING TEAM MEMBERS are, front row (left to right): Mariaha Benedict, Maddie Pulis, Macy Brown and Kate Feltz. Back: Alejandra Manzanilla, Delaney O’Connor, Lucy Porter, Andee Barwin, Araya Fellers and Gracie Harvey. Not pictured: Kaitlynn Van Denmark.

(140) and Lucy Porter (145), and sophomore Gracie Harvey (110).

Webster City students Kate Feltz (155) and Kaitlynn Van Denmark (110) will also be a part of the Dodger program this season.

The Dodgers had a busy first week, competing in a triangular, a scramble and invitational, along with a dual tournament.

Benedict (135) racked up 29 victories a year ago, and was 3-2 in the state tournament. She is already off to a quick start in 2023-24.

After losing her first match of the season, Benedict reeled off nine straight wins by fall — all in under a minute. The fastest was in eight seconds.

“Maraiah has a lot of grit and carries the ability to really get it going,” Koenig said. “If she struggles, she can bounce right back. She has shown that kind of drive.”

Pulis (170) was a super regional champion a year ago and placed third at the Donnybrook in Coralville last December. She compiled an 18-8 mark with two state wins.

Pulis took second in both the Fort Dodge scramble and Ridge View Invitational earlier this month.

“Maddie is bumping up to 170, where she feels more comfortable and won’t have to cut (weight),” Koenig said. “She had a strong run last year in the super regionals

as well as the Donybrook, and should eventually have a good seed at the state tournament.”

Brown (130), who was part of Fort Dodge’s softball state championship team in 2021, was 19-17 as a state qualifier.

Manzanilla (12-9 as a freshman) reached the wrestleback round of the super regionals and lost in the blood round. The sophomore has finished second in both Dodger tourneys this year.

“I’m excited to see what Alex can do this year,” Koenig said.

“She lost in wrestlebacks last year and has a huge chip on her shoulder.

“She's worked hard and I’m pretty impressed with her

SCHEDULE Dec. 5 — at Waverly-Shell Rock 7 — at Des Moines East, Waterloo East, Ames; 8-9 — at Council Bluffs Tournament; 15 — Don Miller Invitational; 19 — at West Marshall.

Jan. 6 — at West Central Valley; 11 — Ames; 13 — at Waukee Northwest; 18 — IAC Tournament; 20 — at Mason City.

progress. She gets mad in practice and really gets going.”

O’Connor (12-23) Porter (610), Harvey (6-11) were key parts of the Dodger lineup a year ago. Fellers fought through injuries as a junior.

Koenig is hoping that as the success of the program continues, Fort Dodge starts to build numbers and depth.

“We have some low numbers right now overall, but April Ritts (middle school coach) has 20 girls in seventh and eighth grade at the middle school,” Koenig said. “She has also been running the little kids through Iowa Elite, and there are some numbers there as well.”

Koenig will be assisted by volunteers Roger Porter and Bob O’Connor.

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

17

FORT DODGE BOYS SWIMMING

Dodgers focusing on steady progress HEAD COACH Ashley Beaumont 6th year

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

FORT DODGE BOYS SWIMMING TEAM MEMBERS are, front row (left to right): Evan Potter, Kason Echevarria, Brady Major, Akramon Abdurakhimov, Jayden Stanley and Aiden Seagren. Back: Nathan Klocke, Brek Pingel, Kobe Bacon, Kael Keith, Evan Cooper, Samuel Brockbank and Carter Jorgensen. Not pictured: Owen Gruver, Matt Besch, Colin Roberts, Elijah Lawrence, Jason Mejia and Ayden Hernandez.

By ERIC PRATT sports@messengernews.net

Fort Dodge’s Ashley Beaumont is preaching patience as her boys swim squad prepares for the 202324 campaign.

The sixth-year Dodger head coach sees pockets of long-term potential, but success won’t happen overnight at FDSH. Participation numbers are up, which is an encouraging sign.

A number of juniors are also working their way up the ranks as they settle into new roles as upperclass leaders.

“We’re getting there,” Beaumont said. “I think this team will continue to get better, which is the most important step at the end

“I think this team will continue to get better, which is the most important step at the end of the day.”

ASHLEY BEAUMONT

Fort Dodge head coach

of the day. I’m much more worried about the progress you make compared to a day or a week or a month ago, rather than what our opponents are doing — especially in November and December.

“We’re working on a lot of fundamentals in the early going, but we’re trying to establish a pattern of consistency in

everything we do that will pay (long-term) dividends.”

Juniors Evan Cooper and Carter Jorgensen, along with classmate Brady Major, were varsity regulars a year ago.

“They’re all starting to come around to the idea of (collectively) setting the tone and providing leadership,” Beaumont said.

“Evan, Carter and Brady have been stepping up. They know what the expectations are here, and now it’s time for them to pass that along to the freshmen and some of the other newcomers.”

Freshman Matt Besch — a student at Bishop Garrigan — and Algona sophomore Colin Roberts are two newcomers who “have really bright futures,” Beaumont said. “It’s still a little bit of an

unknown, but again, they’re only going to get better.”

Beaumont is also welcoming junior Kael Keith back to the program.

“Kael swam for me years ago, as did his sister (Kate, a multi-time state qualifier),” Beaumont said.

“I’m excited to see what he can do as the season progresses.”

Former Algona student Dylan Alt, a state qualifier in multiple events during his first two prep years with the Dodgers, has transferred to Waukee Northwest.

Joseph Dawson is the lone senior on the team. Nathan Klocke and Jason Mejia are the other juniors.

“Fortunately, for the vast majority of our roster, this isn’t their last year (in the program),”

ROSTER Akramon Abdurakhimov.......... sr.

Joseph Dawson........................ sr.

Brady Major............................. jr.

Nathan Klocke.......................... jr.

Kael Keith................................. jr.

Evan Cooper............................ jr.

Carter Jorgensen...................... jr.

Jason Mejia............................... jr.

Evan Potter...............................so.

Aiden Seagren..........................so.

Samuel Brockbank...................so.

Owen Gruver...........................so.

Ayden Hernandez....................so.

Matt Besch.............................. so.

Colin Roberts............................ fr.

Kason Echevarria.......................fr.

Jayden Stanley...........................fr.

Brek Pingel................................fr.

Kobe Bacon...............................fr.

Elijah Lawrence.........................fr.

SCHEDULE Nov. 28 — Carroll/Spencer; 30 — at Des Moines Lincoln.

Dec. 2 — at Boone; 7 — at Des Moines Roosevelt; 12 — at Southeast Polk; 14 — Marshalltown.

Jan. 4 — Mason City; 11 — at Ames; 13 — Rusty Garst Invitational; 20 — at Ames (Iowa Alliance Conference Tournament).

Beaumont said. “We have to continue to look at our long-term goals and where we want to be not just into (2024), but (2025).”

Fort Dodge opens its season with a home triangular against Carroll and Spencer. The annual Rusty Garst FDSH Invitational is Jan. 13 in the Dodger Pool.

Beaumont is again being assisted by Ethan Martin.

18

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

St. Edmond Gaels

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MESSENGER PHOTO BY BRITT KUDLA St. Edmond varsity cheerleaders are, front row (left to right): Cecilia Galvan, Alex Leiting, Breanna Bethke, Ella Passow, Madelyn Davis and Ansley Oswald.

Back: Brianna Saathoff, Cambree Lunn, Lizzy Tiernan, Ella Mundie, Claire O’Connor, Abby Tofilon, Sophia Dutcher and Avenlee Hayek.

Not pictured: Andee Barwin, Emma Barwin and Abby Lawler.

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Good Luck to All the Area Teams This Season!

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

FORT DODGE WRESTLING

FD MAT, Continued from Page 10 Teskes, Ayalas, Rosses — the list goes on and on,” Thompson said. “Our guys are the next in line to keep that going.

“That’s the good thing about our program. It just keeps going...the freshmen and sophomores jump in and are leaders before you know it.”

The Dodgers are adjusting to the new weight classes across the state.

LOWER WEIGHTS The lineup will start with another familiar name at 106 pounds, as freshman Trace Rial is the newest face in the family lineage. Rial is the oldest son of two-time Dodger state champion and three-time finalist Mark Rial.

Trace’s uncles, Matt and Pat, were also state runner-ups at Fort Dodg. His grandfather, Mike, is a freshly-minted national IWCOA chapter Hall of Famer.

“Trace will be in a tough weight class as a freshman,” Thompson said. “If you look at the preseason rankings, every ranked kid is a junior or senior.

“Trace is a little undersized, but he is talented and will continue to grow.”

Also in the mix will be sophomores Hunter Kasperbauer and Michael Kintigh, along with freshman Mason Bolton.

The Davidson brothers will once again be keys to the lineup, and Sam moves up to 113. As a freshman, Sam went 24-17 to qualify for state, where he won three matches and lost in the blood round.

Freshman Keaton Hawkins is also listed at 113.

“Sammy will be out for a little bit, but will be back for the Council Bluffs tournament,” Thompson said. “He is looking to reach the podium.”

New Iowa Hawkeye commit Dru Ayala will make the jump to 120 pounds. Ayala, a two-time state runner-up and fifth-place medalist, is looking to continue his finals streak. Ayala is 110-12 in his career.

“Dru was an All-American at Fargo again and is locked and loaded,” Thompson said. “He is on a mission to get to the next level.”

The top spot at 126 pounds will be between freshmen Sam Moser and Bo Marsh.

“These two are the two leanest guys on the team after the body comp,” Thompson said. “They are good athletes and good students.

“Both are doing really well and are very competitive.”

place finish in a tough bracket,” Thompson said. “He is motivated to get back to the finals after dealing with some injuries last year.

“He had a good preseason run at nationals and has gotten more mature. I like the way he is moving in the room.”

Senior Raily Samayoa, junior Caesar Carillo and freshman Noah Essman are at 138 pounds.

The weight changes begin at 144 pounds, where Brown will stake his claim.

As a freshman, he went 28-22.

“When Rylee is in the wrestling season, he gives you everything he has,” Thompson said. “He practices hard and gets after it for six solid minutes.”

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

FORT DODGE’S DRESHAUN ROSS will return for his sophomore season after taking a state title as a freshman.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

FORT DODGE’S DAMARION ROSS will return for his senior season after securing state runner-up honors in 2023.

Senior Landon Rogers is also at 126.

Butrick, who won 29 matches and became a state qualifier, got his feet wet in Des Moines and is looking to climb the medal stand at 132 pounds. Freshman Cody Montgomery is also at that weight.

“Kane is hungry to get on the podium,”

Thompson said. “He will be one of the leaders on this squad.”

Koy Davidson was a state runner-up in his freshman season, and placed fourth last year. Davidson has a two-year record of 66-14.

“Koy is disappointed with his fourth-

MIDDLE WEIGHTS Sophomore Caiden Fraher will be at 150, a year after being a part-time starter for the Dodgers. Junior Juan Cruz and freshman Zander Jones are also in the mix.

“Caiden had a good football season,” Thompson said. “He is motivated to be the full-time starter.”

Sophomore Jesse Egli will be at the newly-configured 157 pounds a year after qualifying for state at 152. Egli earned 24 wins in his rookie season.

Also at 157 are juniors Carlos Elias, Hunter Richardson and John Phan.

“We are deep at 157,” Thompson said.

“Jesse had a good freshman season and is ready to reach the podium.”

Senior Bo Cowell will continue the Cowell family’s run on the Dodger roster at 165 pounds. Bo is the brother of state medalist Brooks and Lane Cowell.

Also wrestling at 165 will be freshmen Jayce Skow and Charles Evans.

UPPER WEIGHTS Damarion Ross makes the 15-pound jump to 175 for the Dodgers. Ross will look to end his career with three state medals in four trips.

Ross’ older brother, Drevon, was a 112-match winner. His sister, Alexis, was a four-time medalist and state champion.

Damarion enters the season with a career mark of 98-30.

Freshman Alex Beekman is at 175 pounds as well.

“Damarion has gotten bigger and better,” Thompson said. “He wants that See FD MAT, Page 21

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The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa

FORT DODGE WRESTLING

“As long as we compete to the best of our ability, we will be right there near the top (in the 3A team race) again.”

BOBBY THOMPSON

Fort Dodge wrestling coach

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

FORT DODGE’S DRU AYALA is looking to continue his streak of state finals appearances to three as a senior.

Constable at 215.

“Joe is a very solid wrestler and could place at state if given the opportunity,” Thompson said. “He may see some varsity time wherever we need him.

“Joe is a great team player and is willing to do whatever the team needs.”

Sophomore Luke Fiereke will be the FDSH heavyweight.

“Luke is a great guy to have at the bottom of your lineup,” Thompson said. “We have some bigger guys that could be medalists — something we haven’t had in a while.”

SCHEDULE Thompson is a firm believer in a tough schedule.

“We don’t always care about wins and losses — it’s more about challenging yourself,” Thompson said.

“We pack our schedule with two-day tourneys for that team unity and we want to wrestle the toughest competition.”

The Dodgers won’t open

the season until December, when they head to the Donnybrook in Coralville.

The next weekend will be a trip to the Council Bluffs Classic.

Fort Dodge has a home triangular with Des Moines Lincoln and Des Moines Roosevelt the week of hosting the Don Miller Invitational.

The year 2023 will end with a new trip to the St. Pius Duals in Kansas City right before Christmas.

The big tournaments of January will be the Mendenhall in Ames, The J-Hawk Invite in Cedar Rapids and the Ed Winger in Urbandale.

Fort Dodge’s only home appearances will be two duals in December plus a dual with Ames on Jan. 11 and hosting districts to end the season.

COACHES Thompson will be assisted once again by Mark Rial, Tanner Utley, Tom McClimon, Ed Birnbaum, Tim Scott, Kevin Yeoman, Ben Schweer.

21

NEWELL-FONDA

MUSTANG BOYS

FD MAT, Continued from Page 20

championship medal.

“He’s anxious to get rolling.”

Hartman had a breakout year at 170 pounds, placing seventh for the Dodgers in 2023. He lost in the first round, but bounced back with four victories to earn a medal.

“Cal has put in a lot of time,” Thompson said. “He is a great kid and a leader for the younger guys. He is a role model and is very hungry.

“He is so much about the program and his teammates. He wants to get a team trophy.”

Freshman Noe Gonzalez is at 190.

Dreshaun Ross will once again be in the lineup with his brother. He took the state of Iowa by storm as a freshman, rolling to the championship at 195 pounds and becoming the youngest to win a crown at his weight or higher in 3A. Ross will take his 44 victories as a freshman up to 215 pounds for the Dodgers.

“You just couldn’t ask for a better kid,” Thompson said. “He is very focused and does the work he needs to do.”

Thompson has another solid newcomer in the lineup in freshman Joe

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Newell-Fonda boys are coming off a strong 2022-23 campaign in which they reached the district finals and finished second in the Twin Lakes Conference.

Now, they must figure out how to solve the loss of several key players as they look to do it all again.

The Mustangs went 18-5 a season ago and have returning starter Max Carlson back, along with key letterwinners Eli Roberts, Guyson Lyman, Mason Hoberman, Jacksyn Hogrefe and Trevor Tauber.

Roberts averaged just under five points per game last year, with Lyman adding three.

“We have very unselfish players that play team basketball and share the ball well,” N-F head coach Chad Buchholz said.

“Their knowledge of the game is very high and are always in the right spots. We have a very versatile team with many players who can create on offense and guard multiple positions on defense.

“We will look to use these things to our advantage this season.”

Newell-Fonda has won three TLC titles and qualified for the state tournament nine times, with the last appearance coming in 2014.

—By Dana Becker

MUSTANG GIRLS Two starters and 10 more players with experience are back for the Newell-Fonda girls, who were Class 1A runners-up for a second consecutive winter last season.

Seniors McKenna Sievers and Kierra Jungers each averaged double figures for the Mustangs, with senior Isabel Bartek and juniors Kinzee Hinders and Anna Mercer

also seeing plenty of key minutes.

Jungers averaged 12.6 points per game, Sievers posted 10.5, Hinders added almost nine, Bartek almost seven and Mercer just under two.

“We return a strong core of players who compete each night in practice,” N-F head coach Dick Jungers said. “This group has put a lot of time in during the offseason to get better and to gain confidence. The returning players work hard, know what it takes to be successful and they want to keep getting better not only in words, but in action.

“We played very deep last year and a lot of our returning players played a lot of minutes in games. Our team will look different this year, but each player is a year wiser and they compete at a high level.”

Senior Greta Larsen, juniors Lindsay Wolf and Jaicee Vanderhoffs and sophomores Ava Vie, Jocee Walsh, Mareni Brabec and Camryn Puhrmann will be counted on this year.

“Our team success will be determined by us taking advantage of opportunities as they present themselves,” Jungers said.

“We need to continue making the right decision at the right time to create more scoring opportunities. We will need our youth to step up and be difference makers, and our upperclassmen will need to provide leadership to get us through the challenges that will present themselves each night.”

Newell-Fonda has made 18 state tournament appearances, including 14 under Jungers. They are four-time state champions, winning three straight from 2019-21 to go along with five runner-up finishes.

—By Dana Becker

MUSTANGS AT A GLANCE NEWELL-FONDA GIRLS Returning letterwinners (12): McKenna Sievers, sr.; Kierra Jungers, sr.; Kinzee Hinders, jr.; Isabel Bartek, sr.; Anna Mercer, jr.; Greta Larsen, sr.; Lindsay Wolf, jr.; Jaicee Vanderhoff, jr.; Ava Vie, soph.; Jocee Walsh, soph.; Mareni Brabec, soph.; Camryn Puhrmann, soph.

Last season: 24-3 overall (Class 1A state runner-up).

Coach: Dick Jungers returns for his 22nd season as head coach of the Mustangs with a career record of 467-74. Newell-Fonda has three

state titles under his direction.

NEWELL-FONDA BOYS Returning letterwinners (6): Max Carlson, sr.; Eli Roberts, sr.; Guyson Lyman, jr.; Mason Hoberman, jr.; Jacksyn Hogrefe, soph.; Trevor Tauber, soph.

Last season: 18-5 overall, 9-2 in Twin Lakes Conference (second).

Coach: Chad Buchholz enters his ifth season leading the Mustangs with an overall record of 75-19.

www.messengernews.net

22

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

SOUTHEAST VALLEY

JAGUAR BOYS

JAGUAR GIRLS

With five key players back from a season ago, Southeast Valley head coach Kyle Johnson is hoping for improvement on the court.

The Jaguars return starter Andrew Miller along with letterwinners Carter Ferry, Hane Sorenson, Brady Hanson and Cale Vansickle to the rotation.

Miller, a senior, averaged six points last year while Ferry, also a senior, chipped in five. Hanson saw action in all 21 games, with Sorenson getting into 13 and Vansickle 11.

“We have some talented players coming back to mix with youth,” Johnson said. “Hopefully by the end of the season, we will be a solid basketball team that can finish in the middle of the pack in the Twin Lakes Conference.”

The Jaguars have recorded a winning season six of the last nine seasons.

Three senior letterwinners are joined by four key prospects to form what Kevin Mills hopes is a winning nucleus for Southeast Valley this winter.

Breck Mills, Kenna Scott and Jordyn Rowley have all garnered experience in the Twin Lakes Conference. Mills averaged 12.5 points with five rebounds a year ago with Scott adding 11.7, 5.4 assists and four boards.

Rowley added two points and over three rebounds a night.

Junior Ryleigh McFarland provides more height inside next to Mills with sophomores Riley Carlson, Madelyn Farley and Camryn Lane competing for minutes.

“Southeast Valley has a unique blend of athletic seasoned players and young athletic competitive players,” Mills said. “Our focus is to be at our best by the end of the season.

—By Dana Becker

See JAGUARS, Page 45

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

SOUTHEAST VALLEY BOYS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are (left to right): Ross Larson, Carter Ferry, Andrew Miller, Brady Hanson and Hane Sorenson.

Messenger photos by Britt Kudla

SOUTHEAST VALLEY GIRLS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners (above photo) are (left to right): Jordyn Rowley, Breck Mills and Kenna Scott.

SOUTHEAST VALLEY WRESTLING returning letterwinners (right photo) are (left to right): Kaden Holder, Grant Smith, Oliver Riehl and Brodey Laughman.

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The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

23

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

HUMBOLDT

WILDCAT BOYS Three returning starters are back for the Humboldt boys, who finished with 18 wins and placed third in the North Central Conference last winter.

Seniors Corey Dettmann and Evan Hatcher are flanked by juniors Elliot Carlson and Mason Van Pelt.

Carlson averaged 14.4 points and three rebounds per game a season ago, with Hatcher adding 13.6 and Dettmann over eight.

Van Pelt chipped in two points per contest.

“We have a solid core in place with three starters (Dettmann, Hatcher and Carlson) returning,” Humboldt head coach Jason Thurm said. “We want to be competitive each night out with the hopes of being in contention for our conference title at the end of the year.

“We have several positions and roles to be filled, which will make for some highly competitive practices early in the preseason.”

—By Dana Becker

WILDCAT GIRLS

championship.

Now, with four returning starters back, the Wildcats will look to take that next step this winter.

Humboldt won 15 games and finished third in the North Central Conference, and will have starters Morgan Mann, Ava Fischer, Reagan Lee and Paige Nelson to work with again.

“We have numerous returning players and hope to build on what we accomplished last year,” Humboldt head coach Rodd Mooney said. “We will need to be able to control the pace of the game and rebound as a team in order to be successful.”

Mann averaged almost 20 points with 5.5 rebounds and 3.4 assists as a sophomore, earning all-North Central Conference status. Fischer, a sophomore, averaged 11 points with Lee adding 8.4 and Nelson almost three.

Kaitlyn Nelson, Bella Opheim, Tielyr Smith and Meg Zweibohmer all saw court time last year.

—By Dana Becker

The Humboldt girls got a taste of success in the postseason last year, making a run to the district

See WILDCATS, Page 25

Photos by Phil Monson/Humboldt Independent

HUMBOLDT GIRLS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are, front row (left to right): Kaitlyn Nelson, Meg Zweibohmer and Paige Nelson. Back: Morgan Mann, Bella Opheim, Ava Fischer and Reagan Lee. HUMBOLDT BOYS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are (left to right): Corey Dettmann, Elliot Carlson, Mason Van Pelt and Evan Hatcher. Not pictured: Coen Matson.

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

25

HUMBOLDT

WILDCATS, Continued from Page 24 WILDCAT WRESTLING Expectations are high around the Humboldt wrestling program this winter.

Along with 10 returning letterwinners, including three state qualifiers, the Wildcats bring in a freshman class loaded with potential.

Senior Gaige Allen and juniors Cyler Cirks and Brady Beers all made the state tournament a year ago. They are joined by letterwinners Aden Prenger, Tyce Clarken, Zayn Feaster, Daylin McDaniel, Landon Halverson and Ethan Kunert.

Among the top prospects for head coach Chad Beaman are AAU state champion Broedy Hendricks and AAU state placewinner Jaxson Kirchhoff.

Hendricks, a freshman, is slated to fill the void at 165 pounds, with Kirchhoff, also a ninth-grader, going at 144.

Sam Knight and Jack Guy, both sophomores, are other key pieces.

Beaman won his 300th dual since taking over the Humboldt program last year and is 456-205-3 in 30 seasons.

—By Dana Becker See WILDCATS, Page 45 Photo by Phil Monson/Humboldt Independent

HUMBOLDT WRESTLING returning letterwinners are, front row (left to right): Cyler Cirks, Daylin McDaniel, Tyce Clarken and Aden Prenger.

Middle: Owen Mayall, Ethan Kunert, Cael Donahe, Zayn Feaster and Brady Beers. Back: Gaige Allen and Landon Halverson.

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26

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

POCAHONTAS AREA

INDIAN BOYS A new leader takes over the Pocahontas Area boys program this winter in Jeff Mefferd, and he’ll have three returning starters to work with.

Mefferd inherits a group led by seniors Ethan Behrens and Blake Roberts, along with junior Gabe Ehn. Cael Hull, Caleb Roberts, Luke Friesner, Collin Dreith and Christian Valenzuela all saw time on the court last year as well.

Behrens averaged 12 points and 7.6 rebounds as a 5-foot-11 guard, with Roberts adding 6.6 and four and Ehn 7.5 and four.

“I’m hoping that three returning starters and nine total returning letterwinners will bring experience to the team to help us get to where we want to be,” Mefferd said. “I feel as though this team can really turn things around from last year.

“I’m optimistic that we will be able to compete with some of the top teams in the Twin Lakes Conference and be in the conference race at the end of the

season.”

The Indians will also see senior Lucas Kopriva return. Kopriva, who saw action in 21 games as a sophomore, missed last year with an injury.

“We’re going to need Lucas to step up and for Cael to step into a bigger role,” Mefferd said. “I feel like we also have some additions to the team that could provide a boost for us.

“We’re going to have some high expectations for Ethan, Blake and Gabe.”

—By Dana Becker

INDIAN GIRLS The Pocahontas Area girls punched a ticket back to the state tournament a season ago. Now, they must regroup after graduating all five starters.

Co-head coaches Robert Maske and Eric Francis have five key players back with experience, led by senior See INDIANS, Page 27

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

POCAHONTAS AREA GIRLS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are, left to right: Delaney Janssen, Natalie Point, Jenna Vonnahme, Alayna Kakacek and Madison Vial.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

POCAHONTAS AREA WRESTLING returning letterwinners are, left to right: Verde Klocke, Ryan Sommerlot, Ryan Panbecker, Dominic Aljets and John Ackerman.

POCAHONTAS AREA BOYS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are, front row (left to right): Luke Friesner, Ethan Behrens, Caleb Hubbel and Gabe Ehn. Back: Blake Roberts, Cael Hull, Caleb Roberts and Collin Dreith.

www.messengernews.net

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

27

POCAHONTAS AREA

INDIANS, Continued from Page 26

INDIANS AT A GLANCE POCAHONTAS AREA BOYS Returning letterwinners (8): Ethan Behrens, sr.; Blake Roberts, sr.; Gabe Ehn, jr.; Cael Hull, sr.; Caleb Roberts, jr.; Luke Friesner, jr.; Collin Dreith, soph.; Christian Valenzuela, soph.

Top prospect: Lucas Kopriva, sr.

Last season: 2-20 overall, 2-9 in Twin Lakes Conference (10th).

Coach: Jeff Mefferd begins his first season as head coach of the Indians.

players back, led by senior Jenna Vonnahme.

She is joined by juniors Madison Vial and Natalie Point, along with sophomores Alayna Kakacek and Delaney Janssen.

Vonnahme averaged 5.6 points and 7.5 rebounds.

“This team has the ability to have a really special season,” Maske said. “We must have everyone step up, fill roles and have newcomers step up as well.”

Kristin Axman, Amanda Davis and Halee Hauswirth will provide depth.

“These girls trust in each other and have the ability to make the hustle plays and do the little things,” Maske said. “They are energetic and fast.”

POCAHONTAS AREA GIRLS Returning letterwinners (5): Jenna Vonnahme, sr.; Madison Vial, jr.; Natalie Point, jr.; Alayna Kakacek, soph.; Delaney, Janssen, soph.

Top prospects: Kristin Axman, soph.; Amanda Davis, jr.; Halee Hauswirth, soph.

Last season: 21-5 overall, 9-2 in Twin Lakes Conference (third).

Co-coaches: Robert Maske and Eric Francis are back as co-head coaches. Maske, who led the Indians to a pair of state titles, owns 213 wins with the program.

—By Dana Becker

INDIAN WRESTLING The Pocahontas Area wrestling team capped a strong 2022-23 season by sending five to state.

Verdy Klocke and Ryan Sommerlot return to lead the way for the Indians. Klocke went 29-15 while competing at 152 pounds and Sommerlot finished 31-7 at 160.

Ryan Panbecker, Dominic Aljets and John Ackerman are also back for PAC this season.

—By Dana Becker

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

POCAHONTAS AREA GIRLS WRESTLING returning letterwinners are (left to right): Yamileth Gutievrez, Teagan Ahlrichs and Jacqueline Ardory.

POCAHONTAS AREA WRESTLING Returning state qualifiers (2): Verdy Klocke, sr.; Ryan Sommerlot, sr.

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BACKCOURT Fort Dodge’s guards struggled at times with perimeter shooting and offensive efficiency a year ago. Now, the formerlyuntested group is older, wiser and ready to become a program strength.

McCaleb, a junior, and McIlrath, a senior, will be joined by another junior in Wills.

“I think they’re all ready to take a big step forward,” Messerly said. “Meah had a really impressive volleyball season and just continues to gain confidence and comfort in her abilities.

She’s really solid on both ends of the court, and will be running the point with (sophomore) Dakota (Pommer).

“Kenzie will be a part of our pick-and-roll game, which is something we’re really going to ramp up.

We’re going to need consistency from her offensively, and I think we’ll get her in better positions now that we have her back (at the 2 or 3 rather than point guard). We want Ashlyn to find more of an offensive rhythm and look for her shot. She’s really good at getting to the basket and drawing fouls.”

McCaleb, an honorable mention all-IAC Northern Division choice in 202223, averaged 3.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.4 steals per game.

McIlrath was at 6.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 3.2 steals as another honorable mention selection.

Dakota Pommer saw action in 13 games as a freshman. Senior Destinee Phillips, junior Edyn Witham and freshman Addison Lentsch are listed as the squad’s other guards.

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

FORT DODGE GIRLS BASKETBALL

PREP BASKETBALL

FD GIRLS, Continued from Page 4

2022-23 AREA HOOP STANDINGS

“We’re just going to see how this all goes in terms of our rotation,” Messerly said. “Normally, I like it to be at seven or eight players. This isn’t just about shooting and scoring.

We need rebounding. We need defense. We have very little margin of error when it comes to injuries or foul trouble. I think there is some nice JV-1 and JV-2 talent coming up, but it’s a big step up to the varsity level.”

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

FORT DODGE’S MEAH MCCALEB drives to the hoop in the Dodger gym last winter. McCaleb returns for her senior season this year.

FRONTCOURT LJ Maehl set a 5-on-5 freshman scoring record at FDSH last season. She’s a wing by trade, but at 6-feet tall with an undersized roster, her responsibilities will shift more to bridging the gap left by her older sister and Hiveley underneath.

“We want the ball in her hands, because she makes things happen,” Messerly said. “LJ had a really good summer. She’s come back stronger, quicker and more confident.

“Like with Kenzie, we’ll use her a lot in pick-androll situations (in half-court possessions). We want to be more of a full-court, running team, which suits both LJ and our guards well.”

Maehl landed on the IAC North’s second squad after averaging 10 points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals as a varsity newcomer.

“LJ should get a lot of easy buckets on the fast break and off of our

pressure,” Messerly said.

“She’s a really good shooter, but we also don’t want her just settling for jumpers. I think she’ll be much more prepared for the physicality of the varsity level. It’s tough for a freshman; it can be a physical and mental rollercoaster. I think LJ learned a lot from last year’s experience.”

Brooklyn Pommer, a 5-7 forward, was a key reserve in 2022-23 as just a sophomore.

“Brooklyn is a competitive kid. She wants to do what it takes to win,” Messerly said. “She’s one of the first in the gym and one of the last to leave. Always working hard. She finished well (a year ago) and we’ll need her to continue that growth (this winter).”

Janelle Long, a 5-8 junior left-hander, is also on the roster. “She can knock down shots and is strong,” Messerly said.

Freshman Maddisen Hoshaw also earned a varsity uniform.

SCHEDULE AND COACHES Fort Dodge opens its season on Monday night at Boone. The Dodgers’ home opener is against Ames on Friday.

“Mason City is the team to beat (in the IAC North) until someone proves otherwise,” Messerly said.

“They ran the table last year (perfect 9-0 record in the league) and have all their best players back (including standouts Reggi Spotts, Kelsey McDonough and Machaela Trask).

“Ames was really young and returns (Anisa) Percival (a first team all-IAC North selection). Waterloo East has (unanimous 2022-23 first teamer) Jaleah Stanford back, and Marshalltown has (first team choice) Sara Huffman. There’s a lot of talent and familiar names in that senior class from our conference.”

The preseason No. 4 Riverhawks were 14-7 overall a year ago and 9-0 in the IAC North, losing in a Class 4A regional final to Decorah. Fort Dodge (1210, 5-4) was the division runner-up, followed by the Trojans (9-13, 4-5) and Little Cyclones (8-15, 4-5).

Messerly will be assisted

by Bill Foval, Alex Nagel and Noah Stanley this season.

IOWA ALLIANCE CONFERENCE NORTH Boys Conf.

All Ames.......................... 8-1...... 17-8 Waterloo East.............. 8-1...... 13-9 Marshalltown.............. 4-4.... 12-10 Mason City.................. 2-7...... 6-15 Fort Dodge.................. 0-9...... 1-20 Girls Conf.

All Mason City.................. 8-1...... 14-7 Fort Dodge.................. 5-4.... 12-10 Waterloo East.............. 4-5...... 9-13 Ames.......................... 4-5...... 8-15 Marshalltown.............. 0-9...... 3-19 NORTH CENTRAL CONFERENCE Boys Conf.

All Clear Lake................. 13-1...... 22-2 Humboldt.................. 11-3...... 18-5 Webster City............. 11-3...... 18-4 Algona........................ 8-6...... 17-8 Iowa Falls-Alden.......... 7-7...... 9-13 Hampton-Dumont..... 4-10...... 7-15 St. Edmond............... 1-13...... 5-18 Clarion-Goldfield....... 1-13...... 4-18 Girls Conf.

All Clear Lake................. 14-0...... 21-3 Algona...................... 12-2...... 17-7 Humboldt.................. 10-4...... 15-8 Clarion-Goldfield......... 7-7.... 10-12

Iowa Falls-Alden.......... 6-8...... 9-13 Webster City............. 3-11...... 6-16 Hampton-Dumont..... 4-10...... 5-17 St. Edmond............... 0-14...... 0-22 TWIN LAKES CONFERENCE Boys Conf.

All Sioux Central............ 11-0...... 23-1 Newell-Fonda.............. 9-2...... 18-5 S. Central Calhoun...... 8-3...... 17-5 GTRA.......................... 8-3...... 16-5 Emmetsburg............... 8-3...... 15-7 Manson NW............... 6-5...... 15-8 East Sac County.......... 5-6.... 11-11 West Bend-Mallard..... 5-6...... 9-12 Alta-Aurelia................. 3-8...... 8-14 Pocahontas Area......... 2-9...... 2-20 Southeast Valley....... 1-10...... 1-20 SL St. Mary’s............. 0-11...... 1-20 Girls Conf.

All Newell-Fonda............ 11-0...... 24-3 Pocahontas Area......... 9-2...... 21-5 Sioux Central.............. 9-2...... 17-7 S. Central Calhoun...... 8-3...... 16-6 Manson NW............... 7-4.... 12-10 Emmetsburg............... 6-5.... 11-12 Alta-Aurelia................. 5-6.... 10-12 GTRA.......................... 3-8...... 7-14 West Bend-Mallard..... 3-8...... 7-14 East Sac County.......... 2-9...... 5-18 SL St. Mary’s............... 2-9...... 4-16 Southeast Valley....... 1-10...... 7-14

ALL-TIME SCORING LEADERS FORT DODGE BOYS CAREER SCORING LEADERS 1. Thomas Clark (84-87)...............68-1,309 (19.3) 2. Wade Lookingbill (85-88)..........74-1,270 (17.2) 3. Malcolm Clayton (14-18)...........90-1,074 (11.9) 4. Mitch Eslick (03-06)...................65-1,057 (16.3) 5. Tom Goodman (62-65)..............64-1,021 (16.0) 6. Colin Panzi (99-02)....................78-1,005 (12.9) 7. JC Hatcher (11-14)....................68-1,002 (14.7) 8. Zach Larson (96-99).....................63-861 (13.7) 9. Kyle Beisch (13-16)......................67-798 (11.9) 10. Sam Mosley (75-78)...................40-792 (19.8)

ST. EDMOND BOYS CAREER SCORING LEADERS 1. Andrew Gibb (15-18).................76-1,539 (20.3) 2. Nick Clark (08-12).....................95-1,437 (15.1) 3. John Engler (06-09)...................78-1,270 (16.3) 4. Andy Nagel (04-08).................101-1,170 (11.6) 5. Zak Clark (01-04)......................74-1,153 (15.3) 6. John Perkins (64-67).................57-1,065 (18.7) 7. Tom Peterson (78-82) ..............68-1,044 (15.4) 8. Jim Collins (67-70)....................60-1,005 (16.8) (tie) Robby Burke (11-14)..............72-1,005 (14.0) 10. Jack Brownlee (97-00)............75-1,002 (13.4)

FORT DODGE GIRLS CAREER 5-ON-5 SCORING LEADERS 1. Molly Nelson (94-98).................87-1,172 (13.5) 2. Morgan Paulson (02-05)............ 89-995 (11.2) 3. Mandy Pilcher (95-99)..................84-904 (10.8) 4. Barb Crooks (86-89).....................62-892 (14.4) 5. Tory Bennett (18-22)....................81-865 (10.7) 6. Baileigh O’Brien (04-08)...............80-811 (10.1) 7. Mitzi Pilcher (85-89).....................66-753 (11.4) 8. Loretha Mosley (85-87)................46-750 (16.3) 9. Lani Van Zyl (2011-14)...................73-726 (9.8) 10. Aleaha Pommer (18-22)...............78-698 (8.9)

ST. EDMOND GIRLS CAREER 5-ON-5 SCORING LEADERS 1. Anna Yung (2011-15).................86-1225 (14.2) 2. Jennifer Perkins (94-98) ............82-1222 (14.9) 3. Alison Nagel (2006-10)...............75-1005 (13.4) 4. Alli Huss (2011-14).......................66-984 (14.9) 5. Jaci Stumpf (2011-15)..................85-875 (10.3) 6. Megan Bradley (00-03).................65-852 (12.8) 7. Theresa Yetmar (94-98).................85-838 (9.8) 8. Danni Huss (02-06.........................87-781 (9.0) 9. Liz Schnurr (96-00).........................87-682 (5.3) 10. Megan Flattery (13-17).................84-681 (8.1)

www.messengernews.net

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

29

ST. EDMOND BASKETBALL

SE GIRLS, Continued from Page 8 That included 35 on the offensive end as she finished with 70 points and 44 steals.

Since making her debut, Lursen has added strength and is coming off state appearances at both track and cross country.

Flaherty, Underberg and Andrew all provided height inside, with Underberg earning all-conference volleyball status this past fall.

“We are going to lean on those sophomores to fill some big shoes this season,” Tracy said. “Anna brings excellent energy to the team and showed what she can do after being inserted Messenger photo by Britt Kudla into the starting lineup after Christmas last year. Ava ST. EDMOND’S JT LAUFERSWEILER (24), Jack McElroy (34) and Sam Mericle get (Underberg) has been really ready to defend against South Hamilton last year in the Gael gym. coming into her own on the glass for us.”

Palmer, Schlienz and SE BOYS, Continued from Page 6 Huss all had big seasons at the middle school level last “Hunter definitely year. helps out in the middle,” “You can tell those Kochendorfer said. “He has three have played a lot of played a lot of basketball basketball,” Tracy said. and understands the game.”

“They can shoot the ball, Sophomores Jackson play defense and handle it.

Calvert, Thomas Knobbe and Drake Vandi are joined by ninth-graders Ty Mericle, Jacob Nieland, Griffin Laufersweiler, Carter Kirkegaard and Evan Christiansen to complete the roster.

“It’s the best we’ve been on numbers in a while, which Messenger photo by Britt Kudla will allow us to play more ST. EDMOND’S SAM MERICLE takes a jump shot last JV games,” Kochendorfer season in the Gael gym. said. “That is so important for the development of the Goldfield/Dows.

Carlson. kids.”

Some key returning Kochendorfer will be Clear Lake was crowned champions of the North players in the league assisted by former player Rasmussen, Central Conference last include Scott Harr of Mitchell year, with Webster City and H a m p t o n - D u m o n t / with Pat O’Rourke again Humboldt finishing second. CAL, Ben Helmers from returning. Matt Dillon Algona was third followed Algona, Thomas Meyer and Luke Becker lead the by Iowa Falls-Alden, of Clear Lake, Webster middle school squads, with Briar Klaver Landon Saathoff and Alex Hampton-Dumont/CAL, City’s St. Edmond and Clarion- and Humboldt’s Elliot Wirtz serving as managers.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

ST. EDMOND’S MAYA NEVERMAN (34) takes a jump shot last season in the Gael gym.

We know the North Central Conference is a physical league and they are going to be challenged right from the start as the young bucks.”

Clear Lake captured the NCC title last winter, going a perfect 14-0. Algona was second followed

by Humboldt, ClarionGoldfield/Dows, Iowa Falls-Alden, HamptonDumont/CAL and Webster City.

Leading players set to return include Humboldt’s Morgan Mann and Ava Fischer, Iowa Falls-Alden’s Ella Sharar, Algona’s Lauren McLaughlin and Casey VanOtterloo, and Clear Lake’s Xada Johnson.

Tracy will once again be assisted by Shawn Neverman, with Craig Schlienz and Neil Flattery handling middle school duties.

Messenger photo

by Britt Kudla

ST. EDMOND’S Michaela Leiting dives for the ball against Webster City in the Gael gym last season.

30

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The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER

COUGAR BOYS The Manson Northwest Webster boys put together a 15-win campaign last winter, including a winning mark in the Twin Lakes Conference.

Now, former MNW standout and head coach Caleb Wubben will look to keep the ball moving this season.

The Cougars return three starters, including double-digit scorers Kelan Koval and Logan Moline, from that unit. They are joined by fellow junior Matt Condon to lead the way.

“I’m expecting big things out of those three,” Wubben said.

“The one nice thing about our team is they have all played together for years so the team chemistry is there to really make this season something special regardless of the wins and losses.

“I believe both Logan and Kelan are capable of doing even more than they did last season as they’ve both improved on the offensive end. Matt will be counted on to fill in the role of point guard and be a big factor on both ends of the floor.”

Koval averaged 14 points

with five rebounds and two assists, Moline added 13 points, five boards and two assists, and Condon chipped in five, three and two.

Senior Caydin Anderson, juniors Broc Patzner and Grant Pohlman, and freshmen Charlie Sturgis and Coy Moline will look to help replace the production lost due to graduation.

“I’m excited for this upcoming season and the direction our program is going,” Wubben said.

“We started building the program a few years ago and have turned a corner.”

—By Dana Becker

COUGAR GIRLS Bret Larson has spent the better part of the past decade helping put his stamp on the Manson Northwest Webster girls basketball program.

Last year, Larson and the Cougars battled to a 12-10 season that saw them finish fourth in the ultra-competitive Twin Lakes Conference.

See COUGARS, Page 31 Submitted photos

MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER GIRLS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners (top photo) are (left to right): Addison McCullough, Sophia McCullough, Isabella Pudenz, Brielle Wiese, Alyssa Richman and Ella Shannon.

MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER WRESTLING returning letterwinners (bottom photo) are front row (left to right): Carter Hoover, Christian Amspoker, Gavin Burton, Oryan Hanson and Keaton Wittrock. Back: Hunter Newman, Mason Anderson, Cooper Harman, Carter VanWaes, Leon Cook, Owen Eldridge and Tatuem Hanson.

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MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER

COUGARS, Continued from Page 30 Now, three returning starters and two more players with varsity experience are back as Manson NW looks for more.

“Last season was a great year for us,” Larson said. “We had to overcome some significant injuries and we were still able to finish above .500 and in the tophalf of the strong TLC. “We have a lot of points to replace but I am excited to see our returning players and newcomers step into new roles.”

Senior Brielle Wiese posted 10 points and six rebounds per game last year. She is joined by fellow returning starters Alyssa Richman and Addison McCullough.

Richman, who finished third this past fall at the Class 1A state cross country meet, averaged four points, three rebounds and three assists as a sophomore.

McCullough posted three points and two rebounds as a freshman.

Senior Bella Pudenz and junior Sophia McCullough are also key pieces. McCullough missed her sophomore season with an injury, but averaged nine points and seven rebounds as a ninth-grader.

Freshmen Ava Moline and Addison Kraft are expected to provide depth and minutes this winter.

“Sophia had an outstanding freshman season and we are excited to have her back,” Larson said. “Brie and Alyssa both had great second halves last year and we will continue to build on that.”

—By Dana Becker Submitted Photo

MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER boys basketball returning letterwinners are, left to right: Logan Moline, Matthew Condon, Kelan Koval.

COUGAR WRESTLING

The goal for the Manson Northwest Webster wrestling team is to move forward with each day.

A total of 14 letterwinners return for co-head coaches Mitchell Krueger and Ron Ewing, as the Cougars look to earn bids to the state tournament this year.

Seniors Carter Hoover, Leon Cook, Owen Eldridge and Tatuem Hanson are joined by juniors Blake Jones, Cooper Harman and Kamden Birkey. Sophomores Carter VanWaes, Christian Amspoker, Gavin Burton, Hunter Newman, Mason Anderson, Keaton Wittrock and Oryan Hanson also got their feet wet at the varsity level as freshman.

“We have a good nucleus of young men coming back to See COUGARS, Page 47

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CLARION-GOLDFIELD/DOWS

COWBOYS

better on the defensive end to see A handful of seniors, one more success.” junior and three freshmen are —By Dana Becker poised to provide the rotation for Clarion-Goldfield/Dows and COWGIRLS head coach Jason Berning this Coming off a fourth place finish coming winter. in the North Central Conference, Carson Nesheim and Caden Clarion-Goldfield/Dows head Hankins are both returning coach Elizabeth Ennis is banking starters for the Cowboys, as on three returning starters and two Nesheim averaged 14 points more letterwinners this winter. with 4.3 rebounds per game as a Overall, the Cowgirls won 10 junior. Hankins added 8.4 points games as Sawyer Morrical was and 5.5 boards. named third team all-NCC. Landen Kakacek, Wyatt Morrical, a senior, averaged DeCoster, Colin Kirsten and 10 points, 3.4 assists and 2.4 Joshua Moore are the other steals, shooting 41 percent from returning seniors along with the 3-point line. Joining her are junior Bryce Lindaman. Key fellow starters and juniors Elliot newcomers include ninth-graders Ennis and Indy Johnson.

JD Morrical, Chaz Lane and “We are better balanced this Huxley Lingenfelter, with Lane year,” Ennis said. “In a tough and Lingenfelter both checking basketball conference, we will in at 6-foot-3. have to play great defense and “We feel with the experience move the ball on offense. While gained from last year, the growth some teams don’t have a true we made in the offseason and back-to-the-basket post player, some promising young players, I like the balance that we create we can make a lot of progress,” offensively with a 6-foot-1 inside Berning said. “We should be player as well as several 3-point much improved.

“We will be deep and athletic See C-G/D, Page 33 with decent size, but we must be Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

CLARION-GOLDFIELD/DOWS GIRLS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are, front row (left to right): Sawyer Morrical and Kennedy Jackson. Back: Indy Johnson, Elliot Ennis and Paige Brooks.

CLARION-GOLDFIELD/DOWS BOYS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are, front row (left to right): Tristan Kakacek, Landen Kakacek, Wyatt DeCoster, Colin Kirstein. Back: Caden Hankins, Bryce Lindaman, Joshua Moore and Carson Nesheim.

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CLARION-GOLDFIELD/DOWS

C-G/D, Continued from Page 32 threats.”

Ennis averaged 9.3 points and 10.6 rebounds, with Johnson adding 4.6 points. Paige Brooks, a senior, and Kennedy Jackson, a junior, are also back.

C-G/D AT A GLANCE CLARION-GOLDFIELD/DOWS BOYS Returning letterwinners (7): Carson Nesheim, sr.; Caden Hankins, sr.; Landen Kakacek, sr.; Wyatt DeCoster, sr.; Colin Kirstein, sr.; Joshua Moore, sr.; Bryce Lindaman, jr.

Top prospects: JD Morrical, fr.; Chaz Lane, fr.; Huxley Lingenfelter, fr.

Last season: 4-18 overall, 1-13 in North Central Conference (tied for eighth).

Coach: Jason Berning, a graduate of South Dakota State, begins his third season as head coach.

—By Dana Becker

COWBOY WRESTLING Three state qualifiers return for the Clarion-Goldfield/Dows wrestling team.

Ryan Hartwig, Caleb Seaba and Ashtin Willms are back after state berths. Seaba reached 29 wins, while Willms and Hartwig had 21 and 27 victories, respectively.

“We have a younger team this year, but the expectations are to work hard, learn as we go and be competitive,” said Cowboy head coach Dillon Anderson.

Brendon Stein, Kolton Hefti, Abram Wessels and Mason Allen are also back as letterwinners.

CLARION-GOLDFIELD/DOWS GIRLS Returning letterwinners (5): Sawyer Morrical, sr.; Paige Brooks, sr.; Elliot Ennis, jr.; Indy Johnson, jr.; Kennedy Jackson, jr.

Top prospects: Sydney Friesleben, sr.; Aysa Lyons, sr.; Claire Kirstein, soph.; Amya Schaffer, soph.; Tess Wibholm, soph.; Blaire Askelsen, fr.; Addy Howell, fr.

Last season: 10-13 overall, 7-7 in North Central Conference (fourth).

Coach: Elizabeth Ennis is in her second stint as head coach of the Cowgirls.

—By Chris Johnson Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

CLARION-GOLDFIEND/DOWS WRESTLING Returning letterwinners (7): Ryan Hartwig, so., Brandon Stein, so., Lucas Ennis, so., Kolton Hefti, so., Abram Wessels, sr., Coleton Johnson, jr., Lucas Parcel, sr., Caleb Seaba, jr., Solun Gonzalez, jr., Mason Allen, sr., Ashtin Willms, sr.

Top prospects: Ryan Hartwig, so.

Coach: Dillon Anderson is in his second season.

CLARION-GOLDFIELD/DOWS WRESTLING returning letterwinners are, front row (left to right): Ryan Hartwig, Brendon Stein, Kolton Hefti. Back: Abram Wessels, Mason Allen, Caleb Seaba, Ashtin Willms.

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WEBSTER CITY

LYNX BOYS Year No. 2 for Brett Ratcliff will see him return two starters from an 18-win team that nearly qualified for the state tournament.

Seniors Briar Klaver and Braden Doering started all 22 games, with Klaver scoring 309 points and Doering adding 158. Klaver also had a team-high 182 rebounds with 36 assists and 18 blocks, with Doering adding 104 rebounds, 45 assists and 18 steals.

“Briar and Braden will play big roles with this team this year,” Ratcliff said. “They are great character kids and bring us leadership on and off the court.

They understand what I expect from them and they are not afraid to be vocal whether it is in practice or the weight room.

“We will have eight seniors this year and their experience, not only in basketball but in other successful programs, will prove to help us in times of adversity.”

Trevyn Lyons and Jack Larson are both seniors who saw plenty of key minutes last year as reserves.

The Lynx have finished above .500 eight of the last nine seasons, winning at least 12 games seven times.

—By Dana Becker

LYNX GIRLS Mark Fisher will be looking at some new faces as he begins his second season leading the Webster City girls.

The Lynx won six games a season ago and do have starters Addy Beaulieu and Oliva Gallentine to build around. Gallentine, a junior, scored seven points with four rebounds last year while Beaulieu, a senior, added three, two and two assists.

Seniors Caitlyn Gapp, Joleah Stuhr, Kennedy Halling and Tateelina Vankham are flanked by juniors Ady Poppen, Marissa Hedeen and sophomore Alivia Burns as letterwinners.

“We’re a bit younger with our depth this year but we have some great returning players,” Fisher said. “We had a real offseason this year.

“Our first goal is to simply finish above .500, as we have not done

that here for over 20 years. From there, we want to keep building and improving.”

A large group of newcomers will be counted on to provide that depth for Webster City.

“We have to come together and really develop our culture,” Fisher said. “Our older girls need to be leaders, and our younger girls need to develop.”

—By Dana Becker

LYNX WRESTLING A familiar face takes over the Webster City wrestling program this winter, as 2019 graduate Drake Doolittle returns to replace Chad Hisler.

Doolittle, who was a state champion for the Lynx and a Top5 placewinner in all four high school seasons, inherits a strong group of returning starters led by his brother, Carson Doolittle.

A senior, Carson Doolittle has placed third at state three years running, going 40-2 last year.

Joining him are fellow regulars Landon Griffin, Luke Estlund, Tristan Mason, Adison Scott, Dawson Bertran and Linden Phetxoumphone, who also placed third as a freshman last season.

Griffin won 24 matches, Estlund 23 and Mason 18, with Phetxoumphone going 40-3.

“We should be returning a strong team this year with plenty of experience in the varsity lineup,” Doolittle said. “Carson and Landon are two returning senior starters from the state-qualifying team.

“This team has goals of returning to (team) state, and I truly believe it’s attainable if we put in the work and buy into the process.”

Maurice Anderson, Eli Estlund, Angel Ramirez-Trujillo and Gavin Wynkoop are others Doolittle can count on.

“Carson and Linden both have even higher goals this year after placing third,” Doolittle said. “We have many others that have the ability to do great things this year.”

Photo by Patrick Coons

WEBSTER CITY GIRLS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are, front row (left to right): Joleah Stuhr, Addyson Beaulieu, Caitlyn Gapp, Kennedy Halling and Tateelina Vankham. Back: Olivia Gallentine, Marissa Hedeen, Adysen Poppen and Alivia Burns.

—By Dana Becker

Photo by Patrick Coons

See LYNX, Page 35

WEBSTER CITY BOYS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are, left to right: Carter Mickelson, Brandon Lahr, Braden Doering, Briar Klaver, Trevyn Lyons, Kaleb White and Jack Larson.

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WEBSTER CITY

LYNX, Continued from Page 34 LYNX AT A GLANCE

WEBSTER CITY BOYS Returning starters (2): Briar Klaver, sr.; Braden Doering, sr.

Last season: 18-4 overall.

Coach: Brett Ratcliff, a former Webster City standout, returns for his second season.

Photo by Patrick Coons

WEBSTER CITY GIRLS Returning letterwinners (9): Addy Beaulieu, sr.; Caitlyn Gapp, sr.; Joleah Sturh, sr.; Kennedy Halling, sr.; Tateelina Vankham, sr.; Ady Poppen, jr.; Marissa Hedeen, jr.; Olivia Gallentine, jr.; Alivia Burns, soph.

Top prospects: Izzy Grossoehme, fr.; Tristyn Wright, fr.; Ashlee Nydegger, soph.; Avery Poppen, fr.; Louie Pruismann, fr.; Janey Putney, soph.; Jayme Perez, soph.; Rosemary Chamness, fr.; Megan VanDeer, fr.; Hayden McCoy, fr.; Shamyla Miller, fr.

Last season: 6-16 overall, 3-11 in North Central Conference (seventh).

Coach: Mark Fisher begins his second season as head coach of the Lynx. In his career, he is 123-101 overall.

WEBSTER CITY returning wrestling letterwinners are, front row (left to right): Adison Scott, Angel Ramirez, Carson Doolittle, Linden Phetxoumphone, Gavin Wynkoop and Dawson Bertran. Back: Luke Estlund, Tristan Mason, Maurice Anderson, Eli Estlund, Landon Griffin and Isaac Firsching.

WEBSTER CITY WRESTLING Returning letterwinners (11): Carson Doolittle, sr.; Landon Griffin, sr.; Maurice Anderson, jr.; Luke Estlund, jr.; Tristan Mason, jr.; Adison Scott, jr.; Dawson Bertran, soph.; Eli Estlund, soph.; Linden Phetxoumphone, soph.; Angel Ramirez-Trujillo, soph.; Gavin Wynkoop, soph.

Last season: 16-7 in duals; North Central Conference, district champions.

Coach: Former Lynx standout and Duke University wrestler Drake Doolittle takes over for Chad Hisler this year as head coach.

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EAGLE GROVE

EAGLE BOYS Ryan Pedersen brings back three starters and a transfer that averaged over 15 points per game as he looks to put things together for the Eagle Grove boys.

Seniors Drake Canavan and Nolan Krauss are joined by junior Jaxon Morris as returning starters from a unit that won four games a season ago. Added to the lineup will be senior Tyreon Franklin, who averaged 15.4 points and 5.6 rebounds per game for BelmondKlemme last year.

“I think we have the potential to finish towards the top of our conference,” Pedersen said. “We have a good group of returning players and some really good pieces. In order for that to happen, the entire team will need to buy into our plan.

“We will need to be an unselfish team. The players will need to figure out quick what their roles will be.”

Canavan, a 6-foot-3 swing player, posted 16 points and almost eight rebounds a game as a junior, with Morris adding 14 points, five rebounds and three assists. Krauss chipped in with four points.

Senior Jake Jeske and junior Josh Miller are two more key

players for Pedersen. Miller previously was enrolled at Hampton-Dumont/CAL. “Drake and Jaxon are two players that have the potential to take over a game on any given night,” Pedersen said. “If we can get either or both of them going early in the season, things should go well for us.”

—By Dana Becker

EAGLE GIRLS Zach Whipple begins his first season as head coach of the Eagle Grove girls with four returning starters and two more letterwinners back.

Nadia Kaiser, Maddison Kaiser, Chloe Steil and Calli Steil all got their feet wet last year for the Eagles. Nadia Kaiser averaged nine points and eight rebounds per game last year as a junior with Maddison Kaiser adding 6.5 points.

“Our main goal this season is to compete within the Top of Iowa Conference and come away with some wins,” Whipple said. “We are coming off a season in which we only had one win, so the girls were definitely eagle to get back See EAGLES, Page 37 Messenger photos by Britt Kudla

EAGLE GROVE GIRLS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are, front row (left to right): Nadia Kaiser, Maddison Kaiser.

Back: Calli Steil, Jaclynn Demory, Chloe Steil and Reese Ettinger.

EAGLE GROVE BOYS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are (left to right): Nolan Krauss, Jaxon Morris, Drake Canavan and Braeden Pamperin.

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EAGLE GROVE

EAGLES, Continued from Page 36

EAGLES AT A GLANCE

EAGLE GROVE BOYS Returning letterwinners (4): Drake Canavan, sr.; Nolan Krauss, sr.; Jaxon Morris, jr.; Tyreon Franklin, sr.

Top prospects: Josh Miller, jr.; Jake Jeske, sr.

Last season: 4-17 overall, 4-12 in Top of Iowa Conference (eighth).

Coach: Ryan Pedersen enters his 10th season leading the Eagles.

in the gym this summer.

“With the return of four senior starters, they bring a ton of experience and leadership to the floor that I think will make a big difference this year for us.”

Chloe Steil chipped in five points and four rebounds, with Reese Ettinger and Jaclynn Demory also seeing the court.

“We need to come out and control the tempo of the game, limit turnovers, run the floor and not for bad shots or passes,” Whipple said. “On defense, we need to play aggressively on and off the ball.”

EAGLE GROVE GIRLS Returning letterwinners (6): Nadia Kaiser, sr.; Maddison Kaiser, sr.; Chloe Steil, sr.; Calli Steil, sr.; Reese Ettinger, sr.; Jaclynn Demory, sr.

Top prospects: Myah Edwards, jr.; Holly Anderson, fr.

Last season: 1-20 overall, 0-16 in Top of Iowa West.

Coach: Zach Whipple takes over the Eagle program this winter.

—By Dana Becker

EAGLE WRESTLING

The Eagle Grove wrestling team continues to build a foundation back toward being elite, qualifying three for state last year.

One of those is set to return is Mack Morgan, who went 39-5 and won a match at state. Morgan, competing at 113 pounds, lost in sudden victory in the consolations after reaching the quarterfinals.

Connor Christopher, Leelan Spencer, Cooper Thacker, Jayden Kretlow, Reece Demuth, James Harle, Jesus Baez and Hayden Schafer are the other returning letterwinners.

—By Dana Becker

sr.

EAGLE GROVE WRESTLING Returning state qualifier (1): Mack Morgan,

Returning letterwinners (9): Connor Christopher, Leelan Spencer, Mack Morgan, Cooper Thacker, Jayden Kretlow, Reece Demuth, James Harle, Jesus Baez, Hayden Schafer.

Coach: Jacob Groth leads the Eagle wrestling team. EAGLES AT A GLANCE

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

EAGLE GROVE WRESTLING returning letterwinners are, front row (left to right): Connor Christopher, Leelan Spencer, Mack Morgan and Cooper Thacker. Back: Jayden Kretlow, Reece Demuth, James Harle, Jesus Baez and Hayden Schafer.

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EAST SAC COUNTY

RAIDER BOYS The East Sac County boys program has had a strong run of success, recording multiple seasons of at least 10 wins, including 36 over the past three years.

Several players with starting experience are back for the Raiders, led by top scorers Tony Clair and Luke Wright.

Clair recorded 243 points while shooting 65 percent from the field with 169 rebounds last year, while Wright added 230 and 168 with 33 assists, 23 steals and 16 blocks.

Caleb Eichhorn, Karter Ludwig, Luke Wernimont, Brody Boeckman and Sam Julin all saw time in the starting rotation as well. Julin knocked down a team-high 41 three-pointers as a sophomore.

—By Dana Becker

RAIDER GIRLS Despite coming away with just a handful of wins last winter, hopes are high around the East Sac County

RAIDERS AT A GLANCE EAST SAC COUNTY BOYS Returning starters (7): Carter Eichhorn, sr.; Karter Ludwig, sr.; Luke Wernimont, sr.; Brody Boeckman, sr.; Luke Wright, sr.; Sam Julin, jr.; Tony Clair, sr.

Last year: 11-11 overall.

Coach: Todd Bontrager returns to lead the Raiders.

95 points with 66 rebounds, 36 assists and 22 steals.

She is joined by juniors Makenna Steiger, Kendall Quirk and Addisen Ehler. Steiger had 241 points with a team-high 62 made 3-pointers, Quirk added 125 points and a teamhigh 194 rebounds, and Ehler had 86 points with 120 rebounds.

—By Dana Becker

EAST SAC COUNTY GIRLS Returning starters (5): Makenna Steiger, jr.; Jen Aschinger, sr.; Sarah Bontrager, soph.; Addisen Ehler, jr.; Kendall Quirk, jr.

Last season: 5-18 overall.

Coach: Jason Phillips is the head coach of the Raiders.

RAIDER WRESTLING

Charlie Veit and Bradyn Burns both found success at state last year for the East Sac County wrestling team.

Now, the two want to reach the podium.

EAST SAC COUNTY WRESTLING Veit, who was sixth as a sophomore, Returning state qualifier (2): Charlie Veit, sr.; Bradyn Burns, sr. went 48-7 last year but came up Co-coaches: Chaps Wilcke and Sam short of another medal by losing a Ellis are co-head coaches for the Raiders. tough consolation round match after winning two on the backside. girls.

Burns put together a 44-15 season That is because several players with that included a pair of wins in the starting experience return including consolation rounds at state. senior Jen Aschinger. Aschinger —By Dana Becker started all 23 games last year, scoring

THE CREDITS The Messenger’s 2023-2024 Winter Preview was a combined effort made possible by the efforts of our sports department and the valued schools in our area.

Sports Editor Eric Pratt and Assistant Sports Editor Chris Johnson designed, assembled and edited the tab. Staff members Pratt, Johnson and Dana Becker gathered information, wrote stories and typed in schedules, standings and other data. Staff photographs were taken by Britt Kudla and Patrick Coons.

Nick Manwarren designed the cover.

COACHES: PLEASE CALL THE MESSENGER Please remember to call your high school basketball and wrestling results in each week after your respective games are completed this winter.

Our office number is (515) 573-2141 (ext. 435, 436, 438)

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN

TITAN BOYS

TITAN GIRLS

Some key pieces have moved on for the South Central Calhoun boys, but expectations remain high for the program.

Seniors Gavin Batta and Keegan Soard are both returning starters and will be joined by returning letterwinners Andrew Anderson, Bryce Bergquist, Matthew Hardy, Cole Higgins and Charlie Nattress.

Batta averaged almost 14 points and four rebounds per game last year, while Soard added six points and 7.6 rebounds on 71 percent shooting from the field.

Anderson, Bergquist, Hardy, Higgins and Nattress will be counted on to replace the likes of Joe Clark, Eli Wheelock and Tyler Lightner.

Two returning starters and two more players with varsity experience will look to lead the South Central Calhoun girls this winter.

Brenna McAlister and Breanna Patterson combined for over 200 points, almost 200 rebounds and 48 steals last year as sophomores on a team that won 16 games. Seniors Olivia Toms and Mia Babcock were also regulars on the court for head coach Curtis Batta.

“Our returning players gained good experience last season and have worked hard during the offseason,” Batta said.

“This should allow some success as we transition into a new year.

“Growth and development will be

—By Dana Becker

See TITANS, Page 47

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN BOYS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are front row (left to right): Charlie Nattress, Matthew Hardy and Andrew Anderson. Back: Bryce Bergquist, Keegan Soard, Cole Higgins and Gavin Batta.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN GIRLS BASKETBALL returning letterwinners are (left to right): Breanne Patterson, Mia Babcock, Olivia Toms and Brenna McAlister.

SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN WRESTLING returning letterwinners are front row (left to right): Zach Trott, Jace Pederson, Brock Nattress and Kolin Folsom. Back: Naylan Gulbranson, Caleb Juhl, Wyatt Mernka, Case Korleski and Collin Kennebeck.

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

BISHOP GARRIGAN

ALGONA

BULLDOG BOYS

starter Casey VanOtterloo also back after posting 11 and three. Classmates Paige Schmitt and Lainey Venteicher will both be counted on to replace those lost due to graduation.

“Lauren and Casey were our top two scorers last year,” Algona head coach Noel McLaughlin said. “We hope to put ourselves in the mix for a conference championship, as well as a run in the postseason.

“Lauren and Casey are a part of a junior class that has played a lot of basketball. They will be joined by a host of freshmen that will be asked to step in at the varsity level.”

Two more juniors, Kaitlyn Burns and Andi Jensen, are flanked by eight ninth-graders that McLaughlin will look to help build a rotation around.

Last year, the Bulldogs lost to top-ranked Estherville-LC in the regional finals.

GOLDEN BEAR BOYS

The Algona boys experienced a run to the state tournament last winter. With three returning starters and four more players with experience back, expectations remain high around the program.

Senior Landon Welp is joined in the starting lineup by juniors Alex Manske and Ben Helmers.

Seniors Reid Louwagie and Brad Mullins, along with junior Jack Limbaugh and sophomore Evan Allie, were all key contributors a season ago.

“The commitment and character of the team is truly impressive,” Algona head coach Jared Cecil said. “While we bid farewell to four senior players who were instrumental last year, there is reason for optimism and excitement thanks to the progress displayed in the offseason.”

Helmers, who stands 6-foot-4, averaged 18 points, five rebounds and two assists per game.

Manske, one of the top quarterback recruits in the state, posted 12 points, just under 10 rebounds and —By Dana Becker almost three assists.

Welp added five points, five assists and three BULLDOG WRESTLING rebounds with Allie chipping in four points and The Algona wrestling team pushed seven through Limbaugh 2.6. to state a season ago, with Tate Slagle placing third, “Along with our core players that return, we will have healthy competition for varsity roles,” Cecil Jacob Zabka fourth and Barrett Morgan eighth.

Zabka graduated, but Slagle and Morgan both said. “Fostering team chemistry remains a top return. priority with a focus on solid defense and an upSlagle, a junior, is a two-time qualifier, going tempo offensive style.”

47-5 last year including a win in his final match —By Dana Becker at state. His only loss came to eventual champion McKinley Robbins of Greene County in the semifinals.

Morgan, a sophomore, went 45-5 and earned BULLDOG GIRLS Fresh off another successful season, the Algona three wins at state.

Other returning qualifiers include junior Isaac girls look to keep the momentum going this winter.

Wilson, sophomore Taevyn Zinnel, junior Ashton The Bulldogs won 17 games and finished second in the North Central Conference last year. They Moreno and senior Cohen Reffer. Wilson won 41 return two starters and two more players with matches, Zinnel 37, Moreno 31 and Reffer 27. varsity experience to compliment a large incoming —By Dana Becker freshman class.

Lauren McLaughlin averaged 13 points and five See BULLDOGS, Page 44 rebounds as a sophomore last year, with fellow

A successful football season has pushed the Bishop Garrigan boys basketball team back a little this winter.

The Golden Bears, though, will have plenty of experience to lean on to make up for the lost time, with starters Logan Nemmers, Drew Muller, Carter Schwab and Trayton Cink all returning in 2023-24.

Joining them will be Drew Lappe, Tate Foertsch, Ben Greteman, Justin Bauer and Nick Leerar.

Many of those players were key pieces on the extended playoff run for Garrigan on the gridiron this fall. As a freshman, Schwab was second on the team with 245 points, adding 130 rebounds, 72 assists, 40 steals and eight blocks.

Muller accounted for 163 points and 88 rebounds last year with Nemmers adding 127 and 90.

AREA SPORTS RESULTS AND MORE: www.messengernews.net

BISHOP GARRIGAN GIRLS Returning letterwinners (5): Abbie Capesius, sr.; Zoe Montag, jr.; Emmi

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GOLDEN BEAR GIRLS For the first time in a long time, the Bishop Garrigan girls will have a different look to them

on the hardwood this winter.

Gone are standouts Audi Crooks and Molly Joyce, key components to back-to-back Class 1A state champions. That group made the finals all four years, but Crooks is now at Iowa State University and Joyce at Truman State University.

Returning starters Abbie Capesius and Zoe Montag will look to fill the void, along with letterwinners Emmi Bartolo, Sacha Alesch and Reagan Murphy.

“We are excited to get the season going and improve every night,” BG head coach Brandon Schwab said. “Abbie is a fouryear starter who has earned all-district and all-Top of Iowa Conference honors. Zoe is a three-year starter.

“We will be very athletic and can shoot the ball well from the 3-point line.”

Schwab also has some newcomers in sophomores Alyssa Haugland, Reese Kemna and Haley Nemmers, along with ninth-grader Gracelyn Eastman, to provide depth.

—By Dana Becker

GOLDEN BEARS AT A GLANCE BISHOP GARRIGAN BOYS Returning starters (4): Drew Muller, jr.; Carter Schwab, soph.; Trayton Cink, jr.; Logan Nemmers, sr.

Last year: 11-12 overall.

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

Good Luck This Season!

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44

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

GREENE COUNTY

RAM BOYS

Fresh off another solid campaign, the Greene County boys look to build around several returning starters.

That includes the senior duo of Gabe Ebersole and Brynley Ruzicka.

Ebersole scored 229 points with 144 rebounds and 21 made 3-pointers last year, while Ruzicka added 179 points with 45 triples.

Nathan Behne, Trey Schilling, Noah Hinote and Isaac Carman all saw action in bulk last year. Behne was limited to just a handful of games following a knee injury.

—By Dana Becker

RAM GIRLS

Now in her third season leading the Greene County girls, Tori Ogden is hoping that her time spent within the program will start to pay off.

The Rams return starter Emma Shipley, alongside a host of players who saw time on the court last season.

Shipley, a junior, averaged 4.4 points with 2.5 rebounds an an assist per game. Seniors Grace Hardaway

and Esther Van Horn are joined by juniors Ella Shipley, Payton Kokenge and Daniele Madsen as letterwinners.

Sophomores Kaycee Pittman and Jennifer Robbins also saw the court last year, with newcomers Becca Anderson and Calleigh Fitzpatrick providing more depth.

—By Dana Becker

RAM WRESTLING A pair of current Div. I wrestlers have left the Greene County wrestling room, but two state qualifiers are back to lead the Rams.

Junior Brent Dennhardt placed eighth a season ago while senior Gavin Scheuermann has qualified for each of the past three state tournaments.

Kale Petersen is now at the University of Iowa and McKinley Robbins at Oregon State University as Kirk Davis takes over the program following a run as an assistant under Zack Beekman.

ALGONA

RAMS AT A GLANCE

BULLDOGS AT GLANCE

GREENE COUNTY BOYS Returning starters (4): Nathan Behne, sr.; Trey Schilling, sr.; Gabe Ebersole, sr.; Brynley Ruzicka, sr.

Last season: 10-13 overall.

Coach: The Rams are led by Christopher Nelson.

ALGONA BOYS Returning letterwinners (7): Landon Welp, sr.; Reid Louwagie, sr.; Brad Mullins, sr.; Alex Manske, jr.; Ben Helmers, jr.; Jack Limbaugh, jr.; Evan Allie, soph.

Last season: 17-8 overall, 8-6 in North Central Conference.

Coach: Jared Cecil begins his fourth season with the Bulldogs as the head coach and the 13th overall in that position.

GREENE COUNTY GIRLS Returning letterwinners (8): Emma Shipley, jr.; Grace Hardaway, sr.; Esther Van Horn, sr.; Ella Shipley, jr.; Payton Kokenge, jr.; Daniele Madsen, jr.; Kaycee Pittman, soph.; Jennifer Robbins, soph.

Top prospects: Becca Anderson, soph.; Calleigh Fitzpatrick, soph.

Last season: 1-21 overall, 1-13 in Heart of Iowa Conference.

Coach: Tori Ogden begins her third season leading the Rams.

GREENE COUNTY WRESTLING Returning state qualifiers (2): Brent Dennhardt, jr.; Gavin Scheuermann, sr.

Coach: Kirk Davis is the head coach of the Rams.

ALGONA GIRLS Returning letterwinners (4): Lauren McLaughlin, jr.; Casey VanOtterloo, jr.; Paige Schmitt, jr.; Lainey Venteicher, jr.

Top prospects: Kaitlyn Burns, jr.; Andi Jensen, jr.; Hayden Kuhlmann, fr.; Hayden McLaughlin, fr.; Bella Jo Dunning, fr.; Taylor VanOtterloo, fr.; Maya Lentz, fr.; Kayla Buscher, fr.; Emma Spear, fr.; Gabby Venteicher, fr.

Last season: 17-7 overall, 12-2 in North Central Conference (second).

Coach: Noel McLaughlin begins his fourth season leading the girls program after 15 years with the boys. He is 33-33 with the Bulldog girls, 209-189 with Algona and owns 218 career wins over 22 seasons.

so.

ALGONA BOYS Returning state medalists (2): Tate Slagle, jr., Barrett Morgan,

Returining state qualifiers (4): Isaac Wilson, so.; Taevyn Zinnel, so.; Ashton Moreno, jr.; Cohen Reffer, sr.

Last season: Slagle, a two-time state qualifier was 47-5; Morgan was 45-5 last season as a state qualifier.

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—By Dana Becker

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

SOUTHEAST VALLEY

HUMBOLDT

JAGUARS, Continued from Page 22

WILDCATS, Continued from Page 25

“Each of the players will need to become really good at their specific craft that they bring to the team. They will need to get really good at their role.”

Mills, a multi-time all-TLC selection, is already the school’s career scoring and blocked shots leader. Scott also earned all-TLC status and ranks first in career assists and steals.

“Breck is a MSU-Moorhead recruit and Kenna is currently being recruited by multiple schools,” Mills said.

“They will have the responsibility to lead the team.”

—By Dana Becker

JAGUAR WRESTLING Jeff Miller knows this is going to be a year of growth for his Southeast Valley wrestling team.

Miller, who has spent three decades guiding the program, lost two of his returning starters before the season started.

He will have six other letterwinners back, including seniors Kaden Holder and Taelynn Slawson.

“With our two big guys out for the season in Nathan Graves and Ryan Wicklein, the Jags are going to struggle in the experience department,” Miller said. “We will have a tough time filling a lineup.”

Holder won 29 matches last year and junior Caleb Will won 25. Senior Grant Smith picked up 18 wins, Slawson won 13, sophomore Oliver Riehl six and 10th-grader Brodey Laughman three.

“Our two seniors, Kaden and Grant, will need to provide leadership to the younger guys,” Miller said.

—By Dana Becker

45

WILDCAT GIRL WRESTLING

The Humboldt girls wrestling team continues to fill the room, as a large group of returning talent is joined by some high-level newcomers for the 2023-24 campaign.

Rylee Coyle, a returning state runner-up in 2022, leads a list of four qualifiers back that also includes Sophia Harris, Brooklyn Robinson and Claire Weydert.

Harris won 24 matches last year, with Robinson winning 22 and Weydert 17.

“We will have a full lineup with a lot of new faces and a lot of returners,” Humboldt head coach Andy Newell said. “We hope to get more girls to the state meet and to place back near the top.”

Ella Olson won 24 matches as a junior and is also back with freshman AAU placewinners Danica Diedrick and Laina Dettmann coming on board. Diedrick was a runner-up and Dettmann finished seventh.

Photo by Phil Monson/Humboldt Independent “Rylee is coming back off an injury HUMBOLDT GIRLS WRESTLING returning letterwinners are, front row that kept her out all last year,” Newell said. “We have good senior leadership (left to right): Catalina Elizondo, Sami Varanghounh, Ella Olson and Macey Varangkounh. Middle: Kenzie McMahon, Claire Weydert and Sophia Harris. and good, strong athletes.”

Back: Kennedy Robinson, Brooklyn Robinson, Rylee Coyle and Elsie Hubbell.

—By Dana Becker Not pictured: Lexi Roberts.

JAGUARS AT A GLANCE SOUTHEAST VALLEY BOYS Returning letterwinners (5): Andrew Miller, sr.; Carter Ferry, sr.; Hane Sorenson, sr.; Brady Hansen, jr.; Cale Vansickle, jr.

Last season: 1-20 overall, 1-11 in Twin Lakes Conference.

Coach: Kyle Johnson returns for his ninth season leading the Jaguars where he has won 103 games. Overall, Johnson has 134 career wins in 13 seasons.

SOUTHEAST VALLEY GIRLS Returning letterwinners (3): Breck Mills, sr.; Jordyn Rowley, sr.; Kenna Scott, sr.

Top prospects: Ryleigh McFarland, jr.; Riley Carlson, soph.; Madelyn Farley, soph.; Camryn Lane, soph.

Last season: 7-15 overall, 1-10 in Twin Lakes Conference (11th).

Coach: Kevin Mills, a graduate of Westmar College, is in his fifth season leading the Jaguars and 26th overall. He has 219 wins in his coaching career.

SOUTHEAST VALLEY WRESTLING Returning letterwinners (8): Kaden Holder, sr.; Grant Smith, sr.; Taelynn Slawson, jr.; Caleb Will, jr.; Brodey Laughman, soph.; Oliver Messenger photo by Britt Kudla Riehl, soph.; Nathan Graves, jr.; Ryan Wicklein, jr.

HUMBOLDT’S CYLER CIRKS wrestles Last season: 8-19 in duals.

Coach: Jeff Miller returns for his 30th season leading the program, at the state tournament for the Wildcats where he has won 339 duals. last season.

WILDCATS AT A GLANCE HUMBOLDT BOYS Returning letterwinners (4): Corey Dettmann, sr.; Evan Hatcher, sr.; Elliot Carlson, jr.; Mason Van Pelt, jr.

Last season: 18-5 overall, 11-3 in North Central Conference (third).

Coach: Jason Thurm enters his fifth season leading the Wildcats, where he has gone 67-26 overall. Thurm also serves as the head baseball coach.

HUMBOLDT GIRLS Returning letterwinners (8): Morgan Mann, jr.; Ava Fischer, soph.; Reagan Lee, sr.; Paige Nelson, jr.; Kaitlyn Nelson, jr.; Bella Opheim, sr.; Tielyr Smith, sr.; Meg Zweibohmer, jr.

Last season: 15-8 overall.

Coach: Rodd Mooney is entering his 22nd season as head coach of the Wildcats, where he has won 204 games.

Overall, Mooney has 234 wins in his head coaching career.

HUMBOLDT WRESTLING Returning letterwinners (10): Aden Prenger, sr.; Cyler Cirks, jr.; Tyce Clarken, jr.; Owen Mayall, jr.; Brady Beers, jr.; Zayn

Feaster, sr.; Daylin McDaniel, sr.; Landon Halverson, jr.; Gaige Allen, sr.; Ethan Kunert, sr.

Top prospects: Jaxson Kirchhoff, fr.; Sam Knight, soph.; Broedy Hendricks, fr.; Jack Guy, soph.

Last season: 19-4 in duals.

Coach: Chad Beaman earned his 300th career dual win at Humboldt last year and begins his 21st season. Overall in 30 years, he has a dual record of 456205-3.

HUMBOLDT GIRLS WRESTLING Returning letterwinners (10): Sophia Harris, sr.; Catalina Elizondo, soph.; Kenzie McMachoa, sr.; Brooklyn Robinson, jr.; Ella Olson, sr.; Claire Weydert, sr.; Lexi Roberts, sr.; Elsie Hubbell, jr.; Kennedy Robinson, soph.; Rylee Coyle, sr.

Top prospects: Danica Diedrick, fr.; Laina Dettmann, fr.; Brooklyn Kunert, fr.; Gracie Lyon, soph.; Gracey May, fr.; Claire Dieleman, soph.

Last season: 3-7 in duals.

Coach: Andy Newell is in his fourth season leading the Wildcats after serving as an assistant on the boys team.

46

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

WEST BEND-MALLARD

WOLVERINE BOYS

WOLVERINE GIRLS

Coming off a nine-win basketball season and a playoff run in football, the West Bend-Mallard boys look for more on the hardwood this winter.

Two starters, seniors Jaxon Zaugg and Mitch Stevens, are flanked by letterwinners Landon Montag, Klayton Jones and Aidan Yoch.

Zaugg averaged six points and five rebounds a game last year with Stevens adding five and four. Montag posted seven points and three rebounds a night.

“Expectations are high after coming off a successful season,” WB-M head coach Jerald Zaugg said. “The three main returning players need to increase their roles and become team leaders.

“We should be an improved 3-point shooting team, but our newcomers are untested at the varsity level.”

Several key newcomers will also help provide depth, including seven from a deep junior class.

Thomas Fehr knows what it takes to compete night in and night out in the Twin Lakes Conference.

A former West Bend-Mallard player, Fehr takes over as head coach of the Wolverine girls this winter.

All five starters are back from a team that won seven games, with three other returning players joining them.

“We are a smaller group, but have a lot of varsity experience and have been playing together for multiple seasons,” Fehr said. “I believe we will be competing for the top-half of the conference and get a good seeding for the playoffs.”

Hannah Stalzer, Hailey Stalzer, Abi Schmidt, Tiffany Fehr and Kierstin Montag are the starters back, as Hailey Stalzer averaged 17 points and Montag 15.5.

Lexi Welter, Addi Montag and Claire Gerber were also contributors who are back.

“We have to stay healthy,” Fehr said, “and want it more than the other teams

—By Dana Becker

we play.”

WOLVERINES AT A GLANCE —By Dana Becker

WOLVERINE WRESTLING The West Bend-Mallard wrestling team returns seven back with varsity experience under their belts from a season ago.

While the Wolverines were unable to push anyone through to state, they have a strong chance this year with sophomore Mason Knapp leading the way.

Knapp went 34-8 at 106 pounds in his first varsity season. Senior Logan Grimm posted a 15-4 mark at 170 with classmates Cortlyn Schupbach and Drew Fehr also key returning wrestlers.

Schupback went 24-19 at 182 and Fehr posted an 18-22 mark at 120.

Jack Habben won 14 matches as a freshman, junior Micah Fehr won four and senior Trenedy Allen three.

—By Dana Becker

www.messengernews.net

WEST BEND-MALLARD BOYS Returning letterwinners (5): Jaxon Zaugg, sr.; Mitch Stevens, sr.; Landon Montag, sr.; Klayton Jones, sr.; Aidan Yoch, sr.

Top prospects: Houston Nielsen, jr.; Clint Fehr, jr.; Austin Schmidt, jr.; Tyler Fogarty, jr.; Cole Fehr, jr.; Graydon Forsythe, jr.; Korg Jones, jr.; Abner Zaugg, fr.; Carson Schneider, soph.

Last season: 9-12 overall, 5-6 in Twin Lakes Conference (seventh).

Coach: Jerald Zaugg, an Iowa State University graduate, returns for his ninth season.

WEST BEND-MALLARD GIRLS Returning letterwinners: (8): Hannah Staltzer, jr.; Hailey Stalzer, jr.; Abi Schmidt, sr.; Tiffany Fehr, jr.; Lexi Welter, jr.; Kierstin Montag, sr.; Addie Montag, so.; Claire Gerber, jr.

Top prospects: Kierstin Montag, sr.; Tiffany Fehr, jr.

Last season: 7-14 overall, 3-8 Twin Lakes Conference.

Coach: Thomas Fehr, a graduate of West BendMallard, is in his first season as coach.

WEST BEND-MALLARD WRESTLING Returning letterwinners (7): Mason Knapp, soph.; Drew Fehr, sr.; Micah Fehr, jr.; Logan Grimm, sr.; Cortlyn Schupbach, sr.; Trenedy Allen, sr.; Jack Habben, soph.

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Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

47

MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER

SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN

COUGARS, Continued from Page 31

TITANS, Continued from Page 40

wrestle for us this year,” Krueger said. “Our seniors and juniors will provide us with a lot of leadership skills in the upcoming season.

“Our team’s success will rely on our kids working together and helping one another get better every day.”

Newcomers to the team include Colton Zinnel, Eli Schoon, Elliott Droste, Evan Fardal, Ben Nelsen, Jaggar Wolfe, Kale Kraft, Owen Compart, Rylan Crouse, Tegan Thoma, Tristan Thompson and Dane Wooldridge.

be critical. Our younger players will need to grow up in a hurry due to our lack of numbers. Some of our older players will also need to be accountable to helping our youth grow as players and teammates within our team.

“Our focus will again be playing great team defense. If we can play on the defensive end of the floor as one cohesive unit, we should put ourselves in a position to be successful.”

Joining the fray this year will be junior Adlen Submitted photo Wheelock, along with ninth-graders Macie —By Dana Becker MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER girls wrestling Dorman, Blair Schleisman returning letterwinners are (left to right): Lucy Kohnen, and Sadie Wheelock.

COUGAR GIRLS WRESTLING

With a returning state qualifier, five other letterwinners and a stable of newcomers, the Manson Northwest Webster girls wrestling team is feeling confident going into the year.

Lucy Kohnen reached the state tournament last year as a sophomore and is back alongside letterwinners Adelynn Hudek, Ally Reuter, Ellisa Anderson, Kayla Skramstad and Raegan Wooldridge.

Ally Reuter, Kayla Skramstad, Adelynn Hudek and Ellisa Anderson. Not pictured: Raegan Wooldridge.

Wooldridge, a senior, recently competed at the state swim meet for Fort Dodge Senior High.

Co-head coaches Mitchell Krueger and Ron Ewing also have newcomers Aazilynn Felix, Jayden Moore, Madison Becker, Madison Crouse, Rachel Jones and Samantha Aljets work work into the lineup.

“We have a great set of young ladies returning and coming in,” Krueger said. “With girls wrestling

in Iowa just starting last year, they are making great strides in learning the moves and what wrestling is all about.

“Our six returning ladies are being great leaders and helping the newcomers learn the sport of wrestling. Our expectations as a coaching staff is for each wrestler to take an additional step forward, gain confidence and see where that takes us.”

MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER GIRLS Returning letterwinners

(5): Brielle Wiese, sr.; Alyssa Richman, jr.; Addison McCullough, soph.; Bella Pudenz, sr.; Sophia McCullough, jr.

Top prospects: Ava Moline, fr.; Addison Kraft, fr.

Last season: 12-10 overall.

Coach: Bret Larson begins his 13th season leading the Cougars, where he has won 161 games.

MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER WRESTLING Returning letterwinners (14): Blake Jones, jr.; Carter Hoover, sr.; Carter VanWaes, soph.; Christian Amspoker, soph.; Cooper Harman, jr.; Gavin Burton, soph.; Hunter Newman,

SOUTH

CENTRAL

CALHOUN

girls

wrestling

—By Dana Becker returning letterwinners are, front row (left to right):

TITAN WRESTLING

A pair of returning state qualifiers are back for the South Central Calhoun wrestling team in seniors Brock Nattress and Zach Trott.

Nattress won 48 matches and Trott 14 with several other letterwinners looking to join them in Des Moines this winter.

That group includes Kolin Folsom, Caleb Juhl, Case Korleski, David —By Dana Becker Melody, Michael Trott,

COUGARS AT A GLANCE MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER BOYS Returning letterwinners (3): Logan Moline, jr.; Matt Condon, jr.; Kelan Koval, jr.

Top prospects: Broc Patzner, jr.; Grant Pohlman, jr.; Caydin Anderson, sr.; Charlie Sturgis, fr.; Coy Moline, fr.

Last season: 15-8 overall, 6-5 in Twin Lakes Conference (sixth).

Coach: Caleb Wubben, a former Manson Northwest Webster standout, enters his sixth season leading the Cougars.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Larla Christopherser and Chloe Parks. Back: Kourtney King, Evelyn Kramer and Kaley Timmerman.

Wyatt Mernka and Jace Pederson.

Kolsom and Korleski both won over 20 matches, with the others all winning at least 12.

ago.

Senior Evelyn Kramer and sophomore Kourtney King are back.

Kramer picked up two victories and reached the quarterfinals. She had 38 —By Dana Becker wins.

King earned a victory at TITAN GIRLS WRESTLING state in her first season on The South Central the mat, while winning 21 Calhoun girls wrestling matches. team returns two of four —By Chris Johnson state qualifiers from a year

TITANS AT A GLANCE soph.; Kamden Birkey, jr.; Keaton Wittrock, soph.; Leon Cook, sr.; Mason Anderson, soph.; Oryan Hanson, soph.; Owen Eldridge, sr.; Tatuem Hanson, sr.

Co-coaches: Mitchell Krueger and Ron Ewing once again lead the Cougars.

MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER GIRLS WRESTLING Returning letterwinners (6): Adelynn Hudek, jr.; Ally Reuter, soph.; Ellisa Anderson, jr.; Kayla Skramstad, jr.; Lucy Kohnen, jr.; Raegan Wooldridge, sr.

Co-coaches: Mitchell Krueger and Ron Ewing serve as co-head coaches for the Cougars.

SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN BOYS Returning letterwinners (7): Andrew Anderson, jr.; Gavin Batta, sr.; Bryce Bergquist, sr.; Matthew Hardy, jr.; Cole Higgins, jr.; Charlie Nattress, soph.; Keegan Soard, sr.

Last season: 17-5 overall, 8-3 in Twin Lakes Conference (third).

Coach: Clive Clark begins his 14th season with the Titans and 39th overall with a record of 537361.

SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN GIRLS Returning starters (2): Brenna

McAlister, jr.; Breanne Patterson, jr.

Last season: 16-6 overall.

Coach: Curt Batta leads the Titans.

SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN WRESTLING Returning letterwinners (9): Brock Nattress, sr.; Kolin Folsom, sr.; Caleb Juhl, jr.; Case Korleski, jr.; Zach Trott, sr.; David Melody, sr.; Michael Trott, jr.; Wyatt Mernka, soph.; Jace Pederson, soph.

Last season: 12-15 record in dual tournament.

Coach: Colin Corey leads

the Titan wrestling program this winter.

SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN GIRLS WRESTLING Returning letterwinners (7): Evelyn Kramer, sr., Chloe Parks, sr., Kaley Timmerman, sr., Kourtney King, so., Laila Christophersen, so., Sophia Wuebker, so.

Top prospects: Mady Smidt, sr., Lilly Kalous, sr., Michelle Burley, fr., Meia Hefley, fr., Angelina Hartley, fr., Megan Folsom, fr.

Coaches: Jeff King is South Central Calhoun's coach.

48

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023

The Messenger/Fort Dodge, Iowa www.messengernews.net

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