2024 Football Preview

SHARED PASSION

Commitment, excitement levels both high in Algona this football season

By ERIC PRATT, Sports Editor

ALGONA — It all started when they were little, growing up as neighbors and classmates in this north-central Iowa community of just under 5,500 residents.

They’ve been on the same team from day one, and the future will bring more of the same. For now, though, their senior year is here.

Alex Manske, Jack Limbaugh and the other Algona Bulldogs are anxiously anticipating the 2024 football campaign. Manske and Limbaugh — both Iowa State University recruits — are the headliners for a team looking to leave a lasting legacy.

They’re far from alone in that pursuit, though.

“Our team and class are really driven and dedicated,” said Manske, a four-star quarterback who picked the Cyclones over Texas A&M, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas State, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Pittsburgh and a host of others last winter. “We care a lot, and we’ve been putting the work in on and off the field preparing for the season. Leading by example is something I’ve

Alex Manske and Jack Limbaugh are returning all-state football players this season for the Algona Bulldogs.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

COVER STORY: ALGONA’S ASCENSION

COVER , Continued from Page 2

“I definitely feel a sense of urgency...it’s senior year. Our last chance to do something special.”

ALEX MANSKE

Algona all-state quarterback

always tried to do, but this year, I’m just trying to be more of a vocal leader. I know how important my voice can be, and I’m making sure I’m using the position I’m in to my advantage.

“I definitely feel a sense of urgency... it’s senior year. Our last chance to do something special.”

The 6-foot-3, 210-pound Manske was a first team all-state selection last fall after throwing for 1,787 yards and 17 touchdowns while rushing for 714 more yards and 12 scores. Limbaugh, a 6-4, 230-pound tight end and edge rusher,

“We want to be remembered as a good team, of course, but also, as leaders in the community as well.”

JACK LIMBAUGH

Algona all-state defensive lineman

landed on the second squad in Class 3A.

“My goals for this team are to accomplish the things that we set out to do at the start of summer. We want to be remembered as a good team on the field of course, but also, as leaders in the community as well,” said Limbaugh, a rush end and tight end who committed to ISU over Iowa, Duke, Kansas, Kansas State, Missouri, Nebraska and Northwestern. “We are really trying to just enjoy every moment (in Algona) now,

See COVER, Page 37

ALEX MANSKE OF ALGONA takes a snap as Bulldog teammate Jack Limbaugh blocks during a regular season game.

GOOD LUCK TO ALL TEAMS!!

Messenger file photo

DODGERS FOCUS ON PROGRESS

By ERIC PRATT, Sports Editor

In many ways, the Fort Dodge football team is just getting started as head coach Nik Moser’s squad builds toward the future.

Just don’t tell that to this year’s group of Dodgers, who are ready to compete — and want to win — right now.

Despite having a roster light on seniors and a lineup filled with players who are still likely a year or two away from reaching their full potential, Fort Dodge still feels like there is no time like the present to make its move.

Nik Moser 5th season

And who is Moser to argue?

“We’re definitely far from a finished product,” said Moser, a former Dodger allstater himself and exdefensive back at Iowa State who has an 18-18 record in his first four seasons at the helm. “It’s hard to say at this point where we’ll be in two weeks, let alone two months.

“I think it’s important to just keep emphasizing the importance of getting better every single day. That’s the (short-term) goal. I know this, though: these guys are ready to work. There isn’t any individual stuff, and they are going to hold each other accountable. Sometime down the road, this could be a really good core of players together.”

See DODGERS, Page 5

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN FOR FORT DODGE are (left to right): Triston Carlson, Gavin Pederson, Joe Constable, Luke Fierke, Carter Short, Jackson McQuillen, Korben Davis and Kyle Pederson.

2024 DODGER FOOTBALL

Seniors (17): Jonathan Brown, 170, DL; Tyreese Hill, 155, DB; Hunter Richardson, 160, DB; Jesus Gutierrez, 185, LB/RB; Jamarius Gibbs-Green, 180, RB; Jordan Lessmeier, 150, DB; Kaden Froisland, 155, DB; Christopher Lacina, 170, K/P; Quantaze Jordan, 175, LB; Mason Liska, 175, LB; Jackson McQuillen, 200, OL; Nathan Taylor, 255, DL; Gavin Pederson, 260, OL/DL; Brayden Reimers, 165, WR; Collin Tornabane, 165, WR; Albert Myrvold, 200, K/P; Carlos Elias, 185, K/P. Juniors (16): Dreshaun Ross, 220, LB/RB; Dalton Eckley, 175, WR; Noah Daniel, 190, DB; Jesse Egli, 200, DB; Tytrell Mosley, 155, WR; Taevon Feeley, 170, DB; Owen Stok, 148, WR; Drew Mason, 150, DB; Tayven Altman, 190, DB; Caiden Fraher, 180, LB; John Hughes, 220, LB; Kauner Jensen, 175, DL; Orrin Rurup, 309, DL; Luke Fierke, 335, OL/DL; Tisyn Hook, 160, WR; Brennen Stickrod, 215, DL. Sophomores (25): Kyree Rochon, 135, WR; Sam Moser, 160, DB; Jayce Skow, 200, LB; Tru McBride, 195, QB; William McElroy, 190, RB/LB; Cal Pederson, 160, WR; Ezrah Barkhaus, 170, RB; Micah Minikwu, 175, LB/WR; Kason Echevarria, 200, LB; Jarrod Chada, 160, DB; Patrick Clay, 145, DB; Amarie Pettigrew, 140, DB; Kingston Phillips, 175, FB; Joe Constable, 250, OL/DL; Christian Calles, 185, DL; Triston Carlson, 205, OL; Brandt Lawler, 225, OL/DL; Kellin Crouse, 230, DL; Kyle Pederson, 205, OL; Aidin Grady, 260, so.; Korben Davis, 215, OL; Jayon Preston-Grady, 220, DL; Charles Evans, 175, DL; Zak Jorgensen, 160, WR; Alex Beekman, 215, OL/DL.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Fort Dodge went 4-5 for the second consecutive season last fall. Thirteen starters are slated to be back in 2024, though the squad did receive some bad news on the injury front before preseason camp had even commenced.

Dreshaun Ross, the most decorated and sought-after prospect in the history of the program, will miss his entire junior year on the gridiron after having shoulder surgery earlier this month. The two-time state wrestling champion, who has football offers from Iowa, Iowa State, Michigan, Nebraska, Missouri, Wisconsin, Kansas, Kansas State and Minnesota, was injured defending his national wrestling title at Fargo.

“It is what it is,” Moser said of Ross being out. “Obviously not ideal. We were really looking forward to him taking another huge step both on and off the field for us. It’s a lot to process for a 16-yearold, but the hope is that he is able to be another ‘coach’ for us, so to speak, and be there for his teammates in practice and on the sidelines.

“That’s a tough ask — Dreshaun would like nothing more than to be out there playing as a third-year starter — but we’re hoping he still embraces that leadership role and finds a different way to make an impact on this team.”

OFFENSE

The Dodgers will lean heavily on their line, which is slated to return four starters who offer plenty of collective savvy, size and skill.

“It could be a huge strength for us, which is always great to be able to say up front,” Moser said. “They’re big, they’re strong and they’re still learning and growing.”

Senior Jackson McQuillen was a first team all-district performer last year

FORT DODGE

DEFENSIVE

Kaden Froisland, Patrick Clay, Sam Moser, Amarie Pettigrew, Tyreese Hill, Jordan Lessmeier and Tayven Altman. Back: Jesse Egli, Noah Daniel, Taevon Feeley, Jarrod Chada, Hunter Richardson and Drew Mason.

despite being relatively undersized at 200 pounds. Senior Gavin Pederson (260) was an honorable mention selection in 2023, and he will be flanked by junior veterans Luke Fierke (334) and Carter Short (260).

Sophomore Joe Constable (250) is a newcomer who is also expected to join the rotation. Drayton Miller was the lone senior starter in 2023.

“We’ve done some shuffling, moving Fierke from guard to center, Pederson from center to tackle, and Short from tackle to guard,” Moser said. “This is an area we’ll lean on very heavily both in establishing

Moser said. “But he’s also a 15-year-old underclassman. He’s a mature kid with a huge upside, but we have to be patient and understand there will be some growing pains as he transitions into (Class) 4A varsity football.”

Senior Royce Pederson threw for 531 yards and seven touchdowns last year while only being intercepted twice in 70 pass attempts.

“Royce is like our version of Taysom Hill,” Moser said, referring to the New Orleans Saints’ Swiss Army knife who has played seven different positions in the NFL. “We’ll use him in a lot of different ways, and he’ll help us in a lot of different ways. He could be a quarterback, a fullback, a tight end or a linebacker, depending on the situation.

“He just wants to win and do what’s best for the team. We appreciate his versatility, and will try to use him accordingly.”

The 6-foot-4, 220-pound Ross rushed for 729 yards and eight touchdowns as a first-year tailback in 2023. His absence leaves senior Jamarius Gibbs-Green, junior Noah Daniel and sophomores Ezrah Barkhaus and Will McElroy to fill backfield roles.

the run and pass protection. We’re really big at guard and center, and our tackles move well. Being 334, 260 and 250 in the interior should be an advantage.”

The linemen will be tasked with shielding the opposition as sophomore newcomer Tru McBride — a highlytouted quarterback who is expected to have the keys to the offense for the next three seasons — takes the reins.

“I understand it’s natural to be excited for Tru, given he’s already 6-foot-2 and 195 pounds with a really strong arm and a solid understanding of our system,”

“Even before Dreshaun’s injury, we were looking at Jamar as our primary ball carrier to let (Ross) focus more on defense,” Moser said. “(Gibbs-Green) had a really nice junior year (with 436 yards and five TDs) and he looks ready to take on an expanded role. He’s physical, he’s fast and he won’t shy away from contact.

“We’ll get the ball in Noah’s hands as much as possible, because he’s a playmaker (Daniel had 216 rushing yards and 102 receiving as a sophomore) who makes us

See DODGERS, Page 6

DODGERS , Continued from Page 4

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

BACKS FOR FORT DODGE are, front row (left to right):

FORT DODGE

FORT DODGE RETURNING LETTERWINNERS AND SENIORS

are, front row (left to right): Jesus Gutierrez, Jamarius Gibbs-Green, Mason Liska, Quantaze Jordan, Chris Lacina, Collin Tornabane, Tyreese Hill, Tytrell Mosley, Caiden Fraher, Carlos Elias, Gavin Pederson and Jordan Lessmeier. Back: Taevon Feeley, Jesse Egli, Dalton Eckley, Noah Daniel, Carter Short, Brayden Reimers, Luke Fierke, Jackson McQuillen, Hunter Richardson,

Jay Brown and Kaden Froisland. Not pictured: Dreshaun Ross.

better. We’ll utilize him in a variety of ways. Ezrah has a little more shake and bounce, while Will is a downhill, physical runner. Our backs complement each other well.”

Fort Dodge’s receiver room is crowded, yet untested. Junior Tytrell Mosley is the only regular returning after 26 receptions a year ago — mostly on jet sweep passes.

“Tytrell has put on close to 30 pounds of muscle and knows what to expect of varsity ball now,” Moser said. “I like what he brings to the table and what he’ll be able to give us these next two seasons.”

Junior Dalton Eckley is another “talented athlete who has size (at 6-1) and is coming off of a productive summer,” Moser added.

“Dalton’s a state (track) qualifier in the high jump who is a strong route runner. He could be an impact player for us.”

Daniel, Royce Pederson and sophomore Kyree Rochon also offer unique skill sets, with seniors Brayden Reimers and Collin Tornabane, junior Tisyn Hook, and sophomores Cal Pederson, Zak Jorgensen and Micah Minikwu all in the mix as well.

“You can never have enough receivers,” Moser said. “They’ll all have an

opportunity to earn playing time. We’re still kind of an unknown as we stand today with our passing game, but I like what we can be down the road.

“We have to throw the ball better and more consistently than we did a year ago. There needs to be more balance to our offense.”

Seniors Albert Myrvold and Carlos Elias are in line to kick, replacing threeyear regular Parker Schillerstrom.

DEFENSE

Only three full-time starters return on this side of the ball, which is heavy on potential but light on overall varsity experience to date.

“I think our defensive line is a great example of that,” Moser said. “A lot of these kids will be taking on increased or even full-time roles for the first time at this level, but I have a lot of confidence in what they will be able to (collectively) provide — especially after they get their feet wet.”

Senior Jay Brown was a regular defensive end in 2023.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Royce Pederson,

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

WIDE RECEIVERS FOR FORT DODGE are, front row (left to right): Royce Pederson, Collin Tornabane, Kyree Rochon and Tytrell Mosley.

Back: Tisyn Hook, Zak Jorgensen, Brayden Reimers, Cal Pederson and Dalton Eckley.

DODGERS , Continued from Page 5

DODGER SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 ............................... Webster City

Sept. 6 at Mason City

Sept. 13 Dallas Center-Grimes

Sept. 20 ......................... at Waterloo East

Sept. 27 at Denison-Schleswig

Oct. 4 Storm Lake

Oct. 11..................................... at Le Mars

Oct. 18 Sioux City West

Oct. 25 ................................... at Spencer

“He’s a tall athlete (6-3) with a high motor who showed flashes last year,” Moser said. “Now we expect a big leap with more consistency and tenacity.”

Brown will be flanked on the other side by fellow ends Brennan Stickrod and Kauner Jensen — both juniors who are 6-5 and 6-2, respectively — as well as sophomores Alex Beekman (6-3), Jayon Preston-Grady (6-1) and Brandt Lawler (6-2). The nose guard position in Moser’s 3-4 defense will likely include Fierke, Pederson or Constable, as well as junior Orin Rurrup (309 pounds) and sophomore Kellin Crouse (230).

Isaiah Caldwell and Zeke Pineda — first team and honorable mention alldistrict honorees a year ago, respectively — graduated.

“We’ll move some kids around and hopefully use our depth (up front defensively) to our advantage, again depending on the opponent and circumstances,” Moser said.

Ross was slated to anchor the linebacking corps as a four-star national prospect. Those plans have changed, though Moser anticipates a group that will meet the challenge despite the injury adversity.

Moser is bullish on sophomore Jayce Skow, a 200-pound bruiser who was the freshman team’s leading tackler in 2023. Junior John Hughes, a 220-pound move-in from Texas, is also vying for playing time, along with Royce Pederson, McElroy, junior Caiden Fraher and senior Jesus Gutierrez.

Three-year regular and 2023 alldistrict linebacker selection Cal Hartman graduated.

“They’ll run well and are extremely physical,” Moser said of his current linebackers. “We’re still mixing and

FORT DODGE

DODGERS , Continued from Page 6

FORT DODGE DEFENSIVE LINEMEN are, front row (left to right): Jayon Preston-Grady, Charles Evans, Joe Constable, Christian Calles, Gavin Pederson and Kauner Jensen. Back: Orin Rurrup, Brandt Lawler, Alex Beekman, Brennen Stickrod, Luke Fierke and Jay Brown.

matching, but all of them are tough. They won’t shy away from contact.”

Juniors Jesse Egli and Daniel anchor the defensive backfield as FDSH’s returning safeties.

“We’re very fortunate to have Noah and Jesse back,” Moser said. “Noah is a 10.9 100 kid who runs the alley well, knows the game and is a difference maker. Jesse does an outstanding job and is very active. Both will be very physical and are still growing into their roles as leaders the next two years.”

Seniors Hunter Richardson and Kaden Froisland, junior Tayven Altman and sophomore Drew Mason add depth to the safety position as well. First team alldistrict choice Drew Moritz graduated.

Junior Taevon Feeley and sophomore Sam Moser are the leaders in the cornerback race, where the slate is wiped clean following the graduation of Dodger regulars and all-district selections Ty Adams and Grant Williams, along with starter Malaki Pettigrew. Seniors Tyreese Hill and Jordan Lessmeier are joined by sophomore Amarie Pettigrew.

“Taevon will be a tough matchup for

opponents. He’s 6-2 and runs well,” Moser said. “Everyone else just needs to keep developing and getting better every day. They all bring their own skill sets to the table, and we’ll need all of them.”

Moser doesn’t anticipate any two-way starters for the Dodgers’ season opener on Friday.

“We will have guys play both ways, but I expect to have 22 different starters,” Moser said. “We have to continue to build our depth and have reliable pieces at all positions to improve our versatility.”

SCHEDULE AND COACHES

Fort Dodge opens with Webster City at home, facing the Lynx and new head coach Andy Brim for the fourth consecutive season and second in a row to kick off the year. Brim is replacing legendary Hall of Famer Bob Howard.

Webster City was 8-3 in 2023, and is 72-23 since 2015.

The Dodgers head to Mason City on Sept. 6, followed by a home contest against Dallas Center-Grimes and a road date versus Waterloo East to close out the pre-district portion of their schedule.

“It’s good to have our old rivals still on the schedule,” Moser said, referring to the Riverhawks and Trojans. “Webster City’s recent success speaks for itself. Mason City is Mason City, and East is a program on the rise. DC-G is solid year in and year out.

“We’ll be tested right away. There won’t be any games where we can just show up and expect to win, that’s for sure. The (non-district assignments) are going to be a real challenge when it comes to how ready we’ll be during that first month.”

A road trip to Denison-Schleswig starts Class 4A, District 1 action on Sept. 27. Fort Dodge then hosts Storm Lake for Homecoming on Oct. 4, followed by contests at Le Mars and against Sioux City West inside Dodger Stadium. The regularseason finale is at Spencer on Oct. 25. Moser is again assisted by Blake Utley, Dan Adams, Jon Koenig, Jerry Ellendson, Tyler Winter and Ben Schnurr. Mike Minikwu joins the staff this fall. Keaton Martin and Aidan Simonson are volunteer assistants.

Tom McClimon, Kody Linder and Connor McLeod are freshman coaches.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

2024 DODGERS VARSITY CHEERLEADERS

Names back row (left to right):

Dawson Wolfe, Serenity Brown, Makinley Nore, Kira Pearson

Names of middle row (left to right):

Macy Eckley, Jersey Woodruff, Alexis Freeman-Scott, Dannika Hanson, Briley Singer, Melany Marin, Karlee Hamilton, Isabella Adams, Izzabella Prather

Names front row (left to right): Caitey Cripe, Cailey Cripe, Alivya Rokes, Lillie Nekvinda, Chloe Lundberg, Addison Weiss, Vanessa Marin, Ella Auten, Jayde Naeve, Camila Lopes

DODGERS!

CLASS 4A: DISTRICT 1

TIGHT GAMES, RACES THE NORM

By ERIC PRATT, Sports Editor

Football is often described as a game of inches.

Last season’s Class 4A, District 1 championship race was a perfect example. Denison-Schleswig found those inches on its way to the title. The Monarchs went unbeaten in league play by the skin of their teeth, defeating Le Mars by two points, Spencer by three and Fort Dodge by three. New head coach Willie Baughman takes over the D-S program for the retired Dave Wiebers. Senior offensive lineman

Joel Murillo returns as a 2023 first team all-district selection, along with second teamers Michael Collins (offensive line), Anthony Arambula (defensive back), Cole Kastner (running back), Ismael Alfaro (defensive line) and Dominick Garcia (defensive line).

The Monarchs must replace Luke Wiebers, the co-district MVP, as well as the five other first-team seniors who have graduated.

Le Mars, like Denison-Schleswig, went 7-3 and qualified for the 4A playoffs a year ago. The kicking game is a strength; senior standout Jovany Kabongo is back after garnering first team honors last season, along with punter Tycen Augustine. Tailback Jude Dougherty, who split time with Kabongo and others in the backfield in 2023, returns after garnering secondteam recognition, as does lineman Asher Moss.

Spencer was on the wrong side of a number of close decisions last fall. The Tigers started 0-6 facing one of the

QUARTERBACKS

toughest schedules in 4A, but won their final three games by a combined spread of 175-6.

Standout Miles Robbins is expected to anchor the 2024 Spencer squad as the defending defensive lineman of the year in the district. Quarterback Cael Bruning also returns, alongside second-team choices Jack Berends (LB), Brody Jordan (DB) and Cole Watson (OL).

“Le Mars and Spencer should be really solid again,” Fort Dodge head coach Nik Moser said. “They have tough kids and systems that work. Coach (Ken) Vigdal (with the Bulldogs) and Coach (Jim) Tighe (Tigers) have experienced success, and their kids buy in.

“Denison is a bit of an unknown with a new head coach, but I know he’s been an assistant on the staff, which helps with continuity. They deserve a lot of credit for winning a lot of close ones (a year ago).”

Before last season, Spencer had strung together eight consecutive campaigns at

or above the .500 mark. The Tigers have won seven or more games five times since 2012, and at least six on seven different occasions during that stretch.

Le Mars, meanwhile, is a combined 13-7 over the last two years.

The Dodgers were slated to welcome back co-district MVP Dreshaun Ross this fall, but the first team all-stater — a four-star linebacker who already has Div. I football offers from Iowa, Iowa State, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, Purdue, Minnesota, Kansas and Kansas State — suffered a shoulder injury wrestling at Fargo Nationals in July and had surgery at the beginning of this month. Ross will miss his junior season on the gridiron.

Fort Dodge does have four starting offensive linemen returning, including 2023 first team all-district pick Jackson McQuillen. Luke Fierke (OL) made the

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

RUNNING BACKS FOR FORT DODGE are (left to right): Kingston Phillips, Micah Minikwu, Ezrah Barkhaus, Jamarius Gibbs-Green, Royce Pederson and Will McElroy. Not pictured: Dreshaun Ross.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

FOR FOR FORT DODGE are (left to right): Royce Pederson and Tru McBride.

DISTRICT 1 , Continued from Page 10

second squad as a sophomore, as did Noah Daniel (DB), Jesse Egli (DB) and Tytrell Mosley (WR). Senior Gavin Pederson (OL) was an honorablemention choice.

After going 7-3 in 2021, the Dodgers have posted consecutive 4-5 records and settled for middling league finishes the last two years. Moser hopes that changes for the better this season.

“We’re working well together and showing a lot of buy-in,” Moser said. “We’re still pretty young overall; a lot of sophomores and juniors will be seeing the field. But our guys are committed to each other and getting better every day. That’s all we can ask.

“Our hope is to be playing our best ball in October. We’re just at the start of the runway right now.”

Storm Lake was 3-6 in 2023. First team alldistrict receiver Cam Boyd and second teamer Rylan Richardson put up huge numbers in the Tornadoes’ aerial attack on offense. They both return for second-year head coach Drake Curry. Sioux City West didn’t log a victory last fall. Jackson DeBondt and Chris Lugo both made the all-district second squad, and are back to lead the Wolverines and rookie head coach Stephan Pearson.

District 1 action kicks off Sept. 27 and concludes Oct. 25.

CLASS 4A: DISTRICT 1

LINEBACKERS

FOR FORT DODGE are,

Caiden Fraher and Jesus

McElroy. Not pictured: Dreshaun Ross.

FREE QUOTES

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

front row (left to right): Quantaze Jordan, Micah Minikwu,

Gutierrez. Back: Mason Liska, Jayce Skow, John Hughes, Kason Echevarria and Will

ST. EDMOND

GAELS ARE EAGER TO GROW

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

As he embarks on his seventh season leading the St. Edmond football team, head coach Matt Dillon feels prepared.

The Gaels return six starters on offense and eight on defense from their second straight 4-4 campaign that saw them just miss out on a playoff appearance.

Seniors Klay Baker, Quintin Jaeschke, Sam Myer, Dominic McClain and Adam Walker form the nucleus now, while juniors Grant Galles, Jakob Koopman, Ethan Swisher, Kinnick Henning, Koleman Hanson and Max Webster complete the core.

“We have a very mature team,” Dillon said. “All five seniors are going to be outstanding players for us, and that’s rare to see considering the number of kids. We have the five best athletes in the senior class who are all great football players and provide excellent leadership.

“Add them to the juniors, and our upperclassmen are loaded with talent. I am excited to get them on the field in a number of different ways through formations, groupings and packages that we have. It’s going to be a blast.”

Since going just 2-7 in 2019, the Gaels have recorded three seasons of finishing at least .500, winning 16 games over the past four years. Graduated players JT Laufersweiler and Leo Ehn were important pieces of that success, though.

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR ST. EDMOND are, front row (left to right):

Kinnick Henning, Ethan Swisher, Max Webster and Koleman Hanson. Back: Adam Walker, Klay Baker, Jakob Koopman, Dominic McClain, Quintin Jaeschke and Grant Galles.

OFFENSE

Laufersweiler accounted for 73 percent of St. Edmond’s total offensive yards last year, and had a hand in 35 of the 47

“We’ve got big shoes to fill, especially in JT because of what he brought to our offense,” Dillon said. “But Ethan has improved significantly from last year, and we have some very good skill players and an experienced offensive line to put around him.”

touchdowns scored.

Swisher, meanwhile, attempted just one pass as a sophomore while rushing three times for 16 yards. He did see extensive time at the junior varsity level directing the offense.

Sophomore Ty Mericle and freshman Thomas Ehn are the backups to Swisher.

2024 GAEL FOOTBALL

ROSTER

Seniors (5): Dominic McClain, 185, TE/LB; Klay Baker, 210, RB/LB; Quintin Jaeschke, 225, OL/DL; Sam Myer, 180, FB/LB; Adam Walker, 250, OL/DL.

Juniors (7): Grant Galles, 155, WR/DB; Jakob Koopman, 180, TE/DB; Ethan Swisher, 160, QB/DB; Kinnick Henning, 165, WB/DL; Jacob Moore, 175, OL/DL; Koleman Hanson, 195, OL/DL/K; Max Webster, 275, OL/DL.

“I like the way Ethan has challenged himself this preseason,” Dillon said. “He has matured and gets it. He knows and understands the offense, knows what it is we are trying to do and is ready.

See GAELS, Page 13

Sophomores (5): Ty Mericle, 160, QB/DB; Griffin Laufersweiler, 135, WR/DB; Aaron Hindt, 170, RB/DB; Liam Elsberry, 160, OL/DL; Jacob Nieland, 265, OL/ DL.

Freshmen (6): Thomas Ehn, 155, QB/DB; Jack Webster, 165, TE/DE; Matthew Crimmins, 145, RB/LB; Hunter Singer, 200, OL/DL; Evan Knox, 155, OL/DL; Marvin Bacon, 165, OL/DL.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Aaron Hindt, Sam Myer,

Matt Dillon 7th season

GAELS

, Continued from Page 12

“Are we going to be a different offense compared to the past few years with JT? Yeah, it will be.”

Part of that change also has to do with the return of running backs Baker, Myer, Henning and Hindt. Baker had 451 yards of total offense and nine touchdowns before an injury ended his junior season early last fall.

Myer stepped in, rushing for 451 yards with four TDs. Henning added 278 yards from scrimmage and scored four times. Hindt saw minimal touches but made an impact in both the ground and aerial attacks.

“We are going to use all four of those guys in various roles,” Dillon said. “Klay and Sam are excellent runners, and Kinnick and Aaron can do special, special things with the football in their hands.”

Galles earned all-district honors and was one of the top receivers in eight-player after hauling in 46 passes for 867 yards with 13 touchdowns as a sophomore. Classmates Koopman and McClain each went over 100 yards receiving and give the Gaels “three solid No. 1 targets,” according to Dillon.

“Most teams have one guy they can say is their top receiver but we have three,” he said. “I look at those three and I think to myself how phenomenal they are. They are all going to have great seasons.”

Koopman and McClain can also rotate in at tight end to replace Ehn, who was second on the team with 16 receptions for 379 yards and three TDs.

Up front will be returning starters Walker, Jaeschke and Webster, with Walker and Webster checking in at 250 pounds plus. Hanson and sophomore Jacob Nieland provide depth in the trenches.

“Adam and Quintin, who is now over 200 pounds as well, are both not only big guys but they can get out and run,” Dillon said. “Max is the glue in the middle for us. He makes sure everybody is doing what they need to be.”

See GAELS, Page 14

WIDE RECEIVERS

ST. EDMOND

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

LINEMEN FOR ST. EDMOND are, front row (left to right): Marvin Bacon, Koleman Hanson, Kinnick Henning, Evan Knox and Max Webster. Back: Jacob Nieland, Adam Walker, Quintin Jaeschke and Hunter Singer.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

for St. Edmond are (left to right): Jakob Koopman, Grant Galles, Jack Webster, Griffin Laufersweiler, Dominic McClain and Thomas Ehn.

ST. EDMOND

GAELS , Continued from Page 13

DEFENSE

Many of those same faces will also be counted on to stop opposing offenses led by returning first team all-stater Walker.

In their four losses last year, the Gaels allowed an average of 56 points per game. That is a number Dillon hopes to see drop significantly this fall.

“With the defense that we will put on the field, I don’t see us giving up a lot of big plays,” he said. “Yeah, we are going to give up some just because that is the nature of eightplayer football. But when you watch them in practice, they just seem to be on a different level this time around.

“At the start of the preseason, I told them they had hit on every single practice session we had. I can’t say that has even been close to happening in the past, but we’ve narrowed that gap.”

Walker ranked among the state’s leaders with 23.5 tackles for loss, making 46.5 stops in all with 2.5 sacks. Jaeschke had 51.5 tackles, including 11 for loss and two sacks. Henning added 48.5 tackles with 10 for loss and a pair of sacks.

Those three return, along the defensive line with Hanson — who led the squad with five sacks — who is capable of rotating in at any of the three positions.

Baker, Myer, Hindt and McClain are the linebackers, with Galles, Koopman and Swisher in the secondary. McClain can also drop back to play deep in various schemes.

“They give us a lot of versatility,” Dillon said. “And they are all playmakers back there. It’s exciting

GAEL SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 ............ at Bishop Garrigan

Sept. 6 .................. Collins-Maxwell

Sept. 13 at Baxter

Sept. 20 Audubon

Sept. 27 ............................... GTRA

Oct. 4 ....... at Coon Rapids-Bayard

Oct. 11 Colo-Nesco

Oct. 18 at Glidden Ralston

to see what we can put on the field and what they can do to create trouble for the opposition.”

Myer led the Gaels with 69 tackles in 2023, including 48 solo stops while making 7.5 tackles for loss. Baker recorded 36 tackles, with 4.5 coming behind the line of scrimmage and Hindt made 12.5 stops.

Koopman picked off a team-high four passes and scooped up two fumble recoveries, while making 40 tackles a year ago. Henning also recovered two fumbles, and Swisher tallied 32 tackles.

SPECIAL TEAMS/COACHES AND SCHEDULE

Hanson is back to handle kicking duties after making seven extra-point attempts last year. He also had 37 touchbacks on his 55 kickoffs while Galles, Baker, Henning and Hindt can return punts and kicks.

Koopman split time at punter two years ago, averaging 30 yards per attempt.

See GAELS, Page 15

DEFENSIVE BACKS FOR

Koopman, Griffin Laufersweiler and Dominic

Galles, Thomas Ehn and Ty Mericle.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

ST. EDMOND are, front row (left to right): Jakob

McClain. Back: Ethan Swisher, Grant

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla QUARTERBACKS for St. Edmond are (left to right): Ethan Swisher, Ty Mericle and Thomas Ehn.

, Continued from Page 14

The coaching staff returns intact from a year ago with Mark McDermott handling defensive coordinator duties while Mike Johnson, Lucas Daniels, Rod Riessen and Adam Swisher are all back.

“Having the staff back is great,” Dillon said. “We know each other, are around each other a lot and all have the same goal in mind. I feel like we make a very good cohesive unit.”

The season opener will see the Gaels hit the road to take on defending eight-player state champion Bishop Garrigan. St. Edmond was the only team to top the Golden Bears last year, scoring a thrilling Week 1 victory, 42-34.

From there, district play begins at Dodger Stadium vs. CollinsMaxwell, who the Gaels beat last season, 61-14. They remain in the league with Baxter and Audubon followed by a non-district contest at GTRA.

St. Edmond concludes the regular season with three of four on the road starting with GTRA as they play Coon Rapids-Bayard, Colo-Nesco and Glidden-Ralston.

ST. EDMOND

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

RUNNING BACKS FOR ST. EDMOND are (left to right): Klay Baker, Sam Myer, Kinnick Henning, Matthew Crimmins and Aaron Hindt. GAELS

QUARTERBACKS LEAD THE WAY

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

One of the most valuable positions in football is the quarterback.

And that takes on an added level at the eight-player ranks.

In District 9 this coming fall, six of the seven teams will have their starting signalcaller back on the gridiron.

That includes reigning district champion Audubon and runner-up Glidden-Ralston. In fact, St. Edmond — which graduated JT Laufersweiler — is the only school without its main quarterback returning.

“As we played them all last year, I realized quickly that we would be going up against each one of them again,” SEHS head coach Matt Dillon said. “It’s a very good, very special group of quarterbacks. One nice thing is from a defensive standpoint, we know what to expect.”

Finishing right behind Audubon and Glidden-Ralston were Baxter and Coon Rapids-Bayard, as the Gaels and ColoNesco completed the district standings.

St. Edmond will lean heavily on a veteran running back group of Klay Baker, Sam Myer and Kinnick Henning. Baker had 263 yards on the ground and 188 in the air with nine combined TDs before suffering a season-ending injury.

Myer — a senior, like Baker — ran for a team-leading 451 yards while Henning, junior, averaged eight yards per touch with four scores.

Ethan Swisher, the projected starter under center for Laufersweiler, will also have all-district receiver Grant Galles back. Galles, a junior, caught 46 passes for 867 yards with 13 touchdowns last year.

The Gael defense is led by all-stater Adam Walker, as the senior had 23.5 tackles for loss with 46.5 total stops. Seniors Quintin Jaeschke and Dominic McClain, juniors Jakob Koopman, Koleman Hanson and Max Webster, and freshmen Ty Mericle, Aaron Hindt and Jacob Nieland all return with invaluable experience.

“I’m really excited about our defense,” Dillon said. “We have more depth than we have had in recent years, and we have the ability to really move a lot of key players around and put them in different positions.”

Led by Aaron Olsen, Audubon earned a

LINEBACKERS FOR ST. EDMOND are, front row (left to right): Sam Myer, Matthew Crimmins and Jack Webster. Back: Marvin Bacon, Klay Baker, Dominc McClain and Aaron Hindt.

spot in the playoffs and went 8-2 overall.

Olsen, a senior, ran for a team-high 1,203 yards with 16 touchdowns while throwing for 537 with four more scores.

Evan Alt, a 1,000-yard rusher, has graduated, opening the door for junior Carson Wessel, who ran for 252 yards and scored nine times in 2023. Junior Austin Christensen is the leading returning receiver after catching 26 balls for 212 with a score.

Olsen also made his mark on the defensive side of the ball, with 50 tackles and six interceptions. Junior Austin Christensen was the leading tackler

last year with 90.5 stops. That number included 52 solo tackles, and 12 behind the line of scrimmage.

While Olsen might be the most dynamic dual threat in the district, Baxter senior Perrin Sulzle is the top returning passer. Sulzle helped the Bolts to five wins while throwing for 2,375 yards and 34 touchdowns.

Sulzle showed off his athletic skills by rushing for a team-high 512 yards and five more scores. Classmates Cade Robinson and Cainan Travis will be counted on to replace the production of leading receiver Treyton Travis.

Robinson had 399 yards on the ground and 272 in the air a year ago, with six combined scores. Cainan Travis had 450 yards receiving, 265 yards rushing and nine TDs.

Cael Wishman is among the top tacklers back after making 71 stops, a number that included 28.5 tackles for loss and nine sacks.

Collins-Maxwell will be hoping that its returning experience can lead them to a strong year after going just 3-6 last fall.

See 8 PLAYER-9, Page 17

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Cooper Wierson returns with a season at quarterback under his belt.

Wierson, now a junior, threw for 1,271 yards and ran for 408. He had 12 rushing scores and nine passing touchdowns, and is joined in the backfield by senior Josef Dvorak, who had over 1,300 yards from scrimmage with 16 scores in 2023.

Juniors Austin Boege and Reed Oswald are also back at receiver and form a strong nucleus on defense as well alongside Dvorak, who had 84 tackles.

Colo-Nesco was 4-0 outside of the district last year but just 2-4 in league play. Quarterback Brekin Clatt returns for his senior campaign after racking up over 1,300 yards of total offense with 17 rushing TDs and 11 more in the air.

Mark Bower and Landon Gjerde had nearly 1,000 yards rushing last season, while Lucas Daggett scored four receiving touchdowns on just eight receptions. The Royals will need to replace top target Lucas Frohwein and leading tackler Trenton Beard.

A strong junior class looks to carry Coon Rapids-Bayard on the gridiron. Wyatt Oswald threw for 756 yards and ran for another 627 as a sophomore in 2023, racking up 15 total TDs.

Oswald is joined by classmate Cal Heydon, who led the team with 33 receptions for 494 yards and nine scores, as well as sophomore Caden Oswald, who ran for 528 yards with 11 TDs.

Wyatt Oswald, Heydon and Caden Oswald all had over 40 tackles and registered six turnovers on defense.

AUDUBON

Top returning players: Aaron Olsen, sr.; Carson Wessel, jr.; Colin Hartl, sr.; Austin Christensen, jr.; Ely Jorgensen, sr.; Gabe Jensen, sr.; Jack Stanerson, sr.; Logan Stetzel, sr.; Colton Hansen, sr.

2023 record: 8-2 overall, 6-0 in district

Coach: Sean Birks is the head coach for the Wheelers.

WHEELER SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 at CAM

Sept. 6 Colo-Nesco

Sept. 13 ...................................................... Exira-EHK

Sept. 20 ................................................ at St. Edmond

Sept. 27 Coon Rapids-Bayard

Oct. 4 at Glidden-Ralston

Oct. 11 Collins-Maxwell

Oct. 18 at Baxter

BAXTER

Top returning players: Perrin Sulzle, sr.; Cainan Travis, sr.; Cade Robinson, sr.; Stadan Vansice, jr.; Jack Anderson, sr.; Cael Wishman, jr.; Carter Smith, sr.

2023 record: 5-4 overall, 3-3 in district

Coach: Robert Luther is the head coach for the

8 PLAYER-9 , Continued from Page 16

ST. EDMOND SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYERS are, front row: Kinnick Henning. Back:

Nieland, Koleman Hanson, Jack Webster, Aaron Hindt, Grant Galles, Ethan Swisher and Ty

Glidden-Ralston, the district runner-up at 5-1 last fall, also has a returnee at quarterback in Colby Wallace. The senior ran for 1,226 yards and scored 26 TDs while throwing for 490 with four more strikes. Backfield mate Emmett Snyder has graduated leaving carries for Alex

EIGHT-PLAYER, DISTRICT 9 CAPSULES

BOLT SCHEDULE

Aug. 23

Springville

Sept. 6 at Coon Rapids-Bayard

Sept. 13 St. Edmond

Sept. 20 at Glidden-Ralston

Sept. 27 ................................................... Colo-Nesco

Oct. 4 ............................................ at Collins-Maxwell

Oct. 11 at Montezuma

Oct. 18 Audubon

COLLINS-MAXWELL

Top returning players: Cooper Wierson, jr.;

Josef Dvorak, sr.; Seth Bell, soph.; Austin Boege, jr.; Reed Oswalt, jr.; Nate Smith, sr.; Dalton Martin, jr.;

Dillion Howerton, jr.

2023 record: 3-6 overall, 0-6 in district

Coach: Greg Davis returns to lead the Spartans.

SPARTAN SCHEDULE

Aug. 30

GMG

Sept. 6 at St. Edmond

Sept. 13

Coon Rapids-Bayard

Sept. 20 at Colo-Nesco

Sept. 27 ............................................ Glidden-Ralston

Oct. 4 .................................................................. Baxter

Daniel and Lucas Christian.

Both Daniel and Waylon Hein return at receiver positions for G-R, while the defense will be led by returning veterans Wallace, Christian, Daniel and Landon Rohrbeck.

Oct. 11 at Audubon

Oct. 18 ................................................... at East Union

COLO-NESCO

Top returning players: Breckin Clatt, sr.; Jack Angell, jr.; Landon Gjerde, jr.; Gannon Short, sr.; Mark Bower, sr.; Hunter Hardin, sr.; Lucas Daggett, sr. 2023 record: 6-4 overall, 2-4 in district.

Coach: The Royals are led by David Greenfield.

ROYAL SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 at Murray

Sept. 6 at Audubon

Sept. 13 ............................................ Glidden-Ralston

Sept. 20 ............................................ Collins-Maxwell

Sept. 27 at Baxter

Oct. 4 English Valleys

Oct. 11 at St. Edmond

Oct. 18 Coon Rapids-Bayard

COON RAPIDS-BAYARD

Top returning players: Wyatt Oswald, jr.; Cal Heydon, jr.; Ethan Bauer, jr.; Caden Oswald, soph.; Parker Hays, sr.; Tyler Mohr, sr.; Ely Booth, sr. 2023 record: 3-5 overall, 3-3 in district.

Coach: Directing the Crusaders will be Chris Mohr

CRUSADER SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 ............................................... at Turkey Valley

Sept. 6 ............................................................... Baxter

Sept. 13 at Collins-Maxwell

Sept. 20 CAM

Sept. 27 at Audubon

Oct. 4 St. Edmond

Oct. 11 .............................................. Glidden-Ralston Oct. 18 ................................................ at Colo-Nesco

GLIDDEN-RALSTON

Top returning players: Colby Wallace, sr.; Alex Daniel, jr.; Lucas Christian, sr.; Waylon Hein, sr.; Landon Rohrbeck, jr.; Collin Sturm, sr. 2023 record: 6-3 overall, 5-1 in district Coach: Kreg Lensch is at the helm for the Wildcats.

Bolts.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Jacob

Mericle.

2024 ST EDMOND GAELS CHEERLEADERS

Front row left to right: Maddy Cripe, Sophia Schlienz, Ella Passow, Breanna Bethke, Ashlyn Swisher, Alex Leiting

Middle row: Charlie Stucky, Sophia Dutcher, Cecilia Galvin, Brianna Saathoff, Cambree Lunn, Ellie Knox

Back row: Lauren Gibb, Abby Tofilon, Madi Davis, Ava Underberg, Ella Mundie, Ansley Oswald, Anna Lursen

*Not Pictured: Avenlee Hayek

COUGARS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER are, front row (left to right): Jackson McGuire, Jagger Wolfe, Kamden Birkey, Blake Jones, Carter Van Waes, Grayson Klocko, Broc Patzner and Sean Fitzgerald. Back Row: Charlie Sturgis, Aiden Nelson, Mason Anderson, Grant Pohlman, Alex Nimke, Logan Moline, Cooper Harman, Matt Condon and Coy Moline.

COUGARS RETURN STRONG NUCLEUS

the district.

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer COUGARS AT A GLANCE

Experience is in favor of Manson Northwest Webster and head coach Zach Noffsinger this fall, as the Cougars return 11 players from both sides of the ball.

That includes 1,000-yard passer Logan Moline, top rusher Kamden Birkey and key receiver Matt Condon. The three seniors are joined by Broc Patzner, Cooper Harman, Grant Pohlman, Alex Nimke, Sean Fitzgerald, Carter Van Waes, Mason Anderson and Grayson Klocko to form a strong nucleus.

Last year, Manson NW put together a 3-5 season that included a runner-up finish in

“We return a lot of starters and we look to improve our record from last season,” Noffsinger said. “As is the case with most teams, one crucial aspect toward this is staying healthy in order to build a cohesive unit.

MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER

Coach: Zach Noffsinger enters his third season leading the Cougars following a stint in South Dakota as a head coach.

COUGAR SCHEDULE

Zach Noffsinger See COUGARS, Page 36

“Our seniors will be the ones we look to lead us on the field.”

Moline had seven passing touchdowns,

Returning starters (11): Logan Moline, QB, sr.; Matt Condon, WR/DB, sr.; Broc Patzner, WR, sr.; Kamden Birkey, RB/ LB, sr.; Cooper Harman, RB/LB, sr.; Grant Pohlman, OL/DL, sr.; Alex Nimke, OL, sr.; Sean Fitzgerald, OL, sr.; Carter Van Waes, OL/LB, jr.; Mason Anderson, TE/LB, jr.; Grayson Klocko, LB, jr.

Top prospects: Jaggar Wolfe, OL/DL, soph.; Charlie Sturgis, LB, soph.; Blake Jones, OL, sr.; Kelan Koval, WR/DB, sr. 2023 record: 3-5 overall, 3-2 in district.

Aug. 30 at Southeast Valley Sept. 6 ................................................... Ogden

Sept. 13 at MVAOCOU

Sept. 20 ............................... Pocahontas Area

Sept. 27 at Eagle Grove

Oct. 4 ......................................... Sioux Central Oct. 11 at East Sac County Oct. 18 .........................................Emmetsburg

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

SOUTHEAST VALLEY

JAGUARS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR

SOUTHEAST VALLEY are, front row (left to right): Carrick McGuire, Casey Hanson, Drew Temple, Brady Hanson and Logan Jaeschke. Back: Lenix Albee, Aden Jepsen, Ryan Wicklein, Nathan Graves, Cale Vansickle, Spencer Peterson and Gauge Jones. Not pictured: Preston Kennedy.

JAGUARS ARE WORKING FOR MORE

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Since 2008, the Southeast Valley football program has recorded three 12-win seasons and had 14 years with at least five wins.

They added to that remarkable run of consistency last fall by going 5-4 and reaching the postseason.

Under head coach Mike Swieter, the goals remain the same. The Jaguars return a dozen letterwinners this year, including quarterback Cale Vansickle, leading rusher Brady Hanson, and ballhawking safety Logan Jaeschke.

“A strength for our team will be our offensive line along with quarterback, running back, fullback and tight end,” Swieter said. “We also return a ton of experience on defense.

“We lost three good wide receivers and two very good outside linebackers that we will have to replace.”

Vansickle, a senior, threw for over 1,000 yards with seven touchdowns while adding 419 yards and three scores on the ground.

See JAGUARS, Page 36

SOUTHEAST VALLEY

Returning letterwinners (12): Cale Vansickle, QB/LB, sr.; Drew Temple, LB, jr.; Logan Jaeschke, WR/S, soph.; Casey Hanson, DB, soph.; Gauge Jones, WR/DB, sr.; Brady Hanson, TB/S, sr.; Nathan Graves, G/DE, sr.; Ryan Wicklein, T/NG, sr.; Carrick Maguire, OL/DL, jr.; Spencer Peterson, K/S, soph.; Aden Jepsen, T, sr.; Preston Kennedy, FB/DE, sr. 2023 record: 5-4 overall.

Coach: Mike Swieter begins his 22nd season as a head coach with 141 career wins during that

time. He is 64-35 over the past nine years with the Jaguars.

JAGUAR SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 .............................................. Manson NW Sept. 6 at Eagle Grove

Sept. 13 at Clarion-Goldfield/Dows

Sept. 20 ............................Des Moines Christian

Sept. 27 at Roland-Story

Oct. 4 at Saydel

Oct. 11 Greene County Oct. 18 ...................................... Carroll Kuemper

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

JAGUARS AT A GLANCE

LYNX

RETURNING

LETTERWINNERS FOR WEBSTER CITY are, front row (left to right): Gabe Ruby, Luke Estlund, Cael Nixon, Jayden Weinzetl, Carson Bertran, Jaxon Griffith, Max McGilligan, Eli Estlund and Aiden Hrnicek. Back Brian Alaniz, Jacob Feldhaus, Brandon Newman, Jake Rohmiller, Cody Elliott, Cole Nohrenberg and Beau Nohrenberg.

BRIM TAKES OVER FOR LYNX

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Andy Brim looks to carry on the strong tradition developed by Bob Howard at Webster City this fall.

Brim, a long-time Lynx assistant and former player himself, takes the reins of the program from Howard, who retired after leading WCHS to another playoff bid and an eight-win season.

And while some key pieces from that squad have moved on, Brim will have 16 returning letterwinners back, with eight of those being returning starters.

“Our 2024 team has the potential to continue the tradition of Lynx football that has been established by the teams

before them,” Brim said. “We have several players that are really eager to contribute this year, some that did last year also but some that really haven’t had a chance to prove themselves yet.

“They have all been great through our offseason and have really risen to the challenge of being part of the team that transitions between Coach Howard and myself.”

Seniors Luke Estlund, Jayden Weinzetl, Cael Nixon, Carson Bertran and Gabe Ruby are joined by juniors Aiden Hrnicek, Bean Nohrenberg and Cole Nohrenberg as

See LYNX, Page 37

WEBSTER CITY’S LONG-TIME ASSISTANT, ANDY BRIM, is now the head coach for the Lynx football team.

Photo by David Borer

PREP SCHEDULES

Friday, Aug. 30

Webster City at Fort Dodge

Council Bluffs Thomas Jefferson at Denison-Schleswig

Saydel at Storm Lake

Sergeant Bluff-Luton at Le Mars

Humboldt at Spencer

Sioux City West at Council Bluffs

Abraham Lincoln

Friday, Sept. 6

Fort Dodge at Mason City

Denison-Schleswig at Harlan

Storm Lake at Boone

Le Mars at Sioux City North

Spencer at Webster City

South Sioux City at Sioux City West

Friday, Sept. 13

Dallas Center-Grimes at Fort Dodge

Denison-Schleswig at Carroll

Council Bluffs Thomas Jefferson at Storm Lake

Boyden-Hull/Rock Valley at Le Mars

Spirit Lake at Spencer

Sergeant Bluff-Luton at Sioux City West

Friday, Sept. 20

Fort Dodge at Waterloo East

Glenwood at Denison-Schleswig

Storm Lake at Perry

Le Mars at MOC-Floyd Valley

Spencer at Sioux Center

Sioux City Heelan at Sioux City West

Friday, Sept. 27

Fort Dodge at Denison-Schleswig

Sioux City West at Storm Lake

Spencer at Le Mars

Friday, Oct. 4

Storm Lake at Fort Dodge

Denison-Schleswig at Spencer

Sioux City West at Storm Lake

Friday, Oct. 11

Fort Dodge at Le Mars

Denison-Schleswig at Storm Lake

Sioux City West at Spencer

Friday, Oct. 18

Sioux City West at Fort Dodge

Le Mars at Denison-Schleswig

Spencer at Storm Lake

Friday, Oct. 25

Fort Dodge at Spencer

Denison-Schleswig at Sioux City West

Storm Lake at Le Mars

Friday, Aug. 30

Humboldt at Spencer

Webster City at Fort Dodge

Algona at Spirit Lake

Oelwein at Charles City

Forest City at Clear Lake

Iowa Falls-Alden at Hampton-Dumont/ CAL

Friday, Sept. 6

Ballard at Humboldt

Spencer at Webster City

Algona at Forest City

Charles City at South Tama County

Clear Lake at New Hampton

Clarion-Goldfield/Dows at HamptonDumont/CAL

Friday, Sept. 13

Humboldt at Van Meter

Webster City at North Polk

Estherville-LC at Algona

Waterloo East at Charles City

Iowa Falls-Alden at Clear Lake

Hampton-Dumont/CAL at West Marshall

Friday, Sept. 20

North Polk at Humboldt

West Delaware at Webster City

Boyden-Hull/Rock Valley at Algona

Charles City at Mason City

Clear Lake at Waverly-Shell Rock

Hampton-Dumont/CAL at Nevada

Friday, Sept. 27

Humboldt at Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Webster City at Clear Lake Algona at Charles City

Friday, Oct. 4

Charles City at Humboldt

Hampton-Dumont/CAL at Webster City

Clear Lake at Algona

Friday, Oct. 11

Algona at Humboldt

Charles City at Webster City

Clear Lake at Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Friday, Oct. 18

Humboldt at Clear Lake

Webster City at Algona

Hampton-Dumont/CAL at Charles City

Friday, Oct. 25

Webster City at Humboldt

Algona at Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Charles City at Clear Lake

Friday, Aug. 30

Eagle Grove at Clarion-Goldfield/Dows

West Hancock at Garner-Hayfield/ Ventura

OABCIG at Estherville-LC

Algona at Spirit Lake

Forest City at Clear Lake

North Union at Okoboji

Friday, Sept. 6

Clarion-Goldfield/Dows at HamptonDumont/CAL

Osage at Garner-Hayfield/Ventura

Estherville-LC at Emmetsburg

Spirit Lake at Sioux Center

Algona at Forest City

Okoboji at Pocahontas Area

Friday, Sept. 13

Southeast Valley at Clarion-Goldfield/ Dows

Garner-Hayfield/Ventura at Central Springs

Estherville-LC at Algona

Spirit Lake at Spencer

Forest City at Eagle Grove

MOC-Floyd Valley at Okoboji

Friday, Sept. 20

Clarion-Goldfield/Dows at GarnerHayfield/Ventura

Okoboji at Estherville-LC

Forest City at Spirit Lake

Friday, Sept. 27

Estherville-LC at Clarion-Goldfield/ Dows

Garner-Hayfield/Ventura at Forest City

Spirit Lake at Okoboji

Friday, Oct. 4

Clarion-Goldfield/Dows at Forest City

Garner-Hayfield/Ventura at Okoboji

Estherville-LC at Spirit Lake

Friday, Oct. 11

Okoboji at Clarion-Goldfield/Dows

Spirit Lake at Garner-Hayfield/Ventura

Forest City at Estherville-LC

Friday, Oct. 18

Clarion-Goldfield/Dows at Spirit Lake

Garner-Hayfield/Ventura at EsthervilleLC

Okoboji at Forest City

Friday, Aug. 30

Manson NW at Southeast Valley

Carroll at Greene County

South Tama at Roland-Story

Sioux City Heelan at Carroll Kuemper

Des Moines Christian at Pella Christian

Saydel at Storm Lake

Friday, Sept. 6

Southeast Valley at Eagle Grove

Greene County at Perry

Nevada at Roland-Story

Carroll Kuemper at Underwood

Van Meter at Des Moines Christian

East Marshall at Saydel

Friday, Sept. 13

Southeast Valley at Clarion-Goldfield/ Dows

Greene County at Atlantic

Roland-Story at South Hamilton

Carroll Kuemper at AHSTW

Clarke at Des Moines Christian

Colfax-Mingo at Saydel

Friday, Sept. 20

Des Moines Christian at Southeast

Valley

Saydel at Greene County

Roland-Story at Carroll Kuemper

Friday, Sept. 27

Southeast Valley at Roland-Story

Greene County at Carroll Kuemper

Saydel at Des Moines Christian

Friday, Oct. 4

Southeast Valley at Saydel

Roland-Story at Greene County

Carroll Kuemper at Des Moines

Christian

Friday, Oct. 11

Greene County at Southeast Valley

Des Moines Christian at Roland-Story

Saydel at Carroll Kuemper

Friday, Oct. 18

Carroll Kuemper at Southeast Valley

Des Moines Christian at Greene

County

Roland-Story at Saydel

Friday, Aug. 30

Manson NW at Southeast Valley

Pocahontas Area at South Central Calhoun

Eagle Grove at Clarion-Goldfield/Dows

IKM-Manning at East Sac County

Central Lyon/G-LR at Emmetsburg

South O’Brien at Sioux Central

Friday, Sept. 6

Ogden at Manson NW

Okoboji at Pocahontas Area

Southeast Valley at Eagle Grove

East Sac County at OABCIG

Estherville-LC at Emmetsburg

Sioux Central at Cherokee

Friday, Sept. 13

Manson NW at MVAOCOU

Pocahontas Area at Hull Western Christian

Forest City at Eagle Grove

Missouri Valley at East Sac County

Emmetsburg at Sheldon Lawton-Bronson at Sioux Central

Friday, Sept. 20

Pocahontas Area at Manson Northwest Webster

Emmetsburg at East Sac County

Eagle Grove at Sioux Central

Friday, Sept. 27

Manson NW at Eagle Grove

East Sac County at Pocahontas Area

Sioux Central at Emmetsburg

Friday, Oct. 4

Sioux Central at Manson NW

Emmetsburg at Pocahontas Area

East Sac County at Eagle Grove

Friday, Oct. 11

Manson NW at East Sac County

Pocahontas Area at Sioux Central

Eagle Grove at Emmetsburg

Friday, Oct. 18

Emmetsburg at Manson NW

Eagle Grove at Pocahontas Area

East Sac County at Sioux Central

PREP SCHEDULES

Friday, Aug. 30

North Union at Okoboji

Clayton Ridge at West Fork

North Butler at Belmond-Klemme

Saint Ansgar at Osage

Central Springs at Mason City Newman

West Hancock at Garner-Hayfield/ Ventura

Friday, Sept. 6

North Union at Saint Ansgar

West Fork at Mason City Newman

Belmond-Klemme at West Hancock

Friday, Sept. 13

Belmond-Klemme at North Union

West Fork at North Butler

Saint Ansgar at West Hancock

Mason City Newman at Lake Mills

Friday, Sept. 20

West Hancock at North Union

Lake Mills at West Fork

Saint Ansgar at Belmond-Klemme

Mason City Newman at South Winneshiek

Friday, Sept. 27

North Union at Lake Mills

West Fork at West Hancock

Belmond-Klemme at Mason City

Newman

Nashua-Plainfield at Saint Ansgar

Friday, Oct. 4

North Union at West Fork

Lake Mills at Belmond-Klemme

Mason City Newman at Saint Ansgar

South Central Calhoun at West

Hancock

Friday, Oct. 11

Mason City Newman at North Union

Saint Ansgar at West Fork

Belmond-Klemme at AGWSR

West Hancock at Lake Mills

Friday, Oct. 18

Sibley-Ocheyedan at North Union

West Fork at Belmond-Klemme

Lake Mills at Saint Ansgar

West Hancock at Mason City Newman

Friday, Aug. 30

Pocahontas Area at South Central

Calhoun

ACGC at Ogden

IKM-Manning at East Sac County

Southwest Valley at Red Oak

Earlham at Central Decatur

West Central Valley at Panorama

Friday, Sept. 6

Southwest Valley at South Central

Calhoun

Earlham at ACGC

Panorama at IKM-Manning

Friday, Sept. 13

South Central Calhoun at Riverside

ACGC at Panorama

IKM-Manning at Earlham

Grand View Christian at Southwest Valley

Friday, Sept. 20

South Central Calhoun at ACGC

Riverside at IKM-Manning

Earlham at Southwest Valley

Panorama at Wayne

Friday, Sept. 27

IKM-Manning at South Central Calhoun

ACGC at Riverside

Southwest Valley at Panorama

Madrid at Earlham

Friday, Oct. 4

South Central Calhoun at West

Hancock

ACGC at IKM-Manning

Southwest Valley at Riverside

Panorama at Earlham

Friday, Oct. 11

Panorama at South Central Calhoun

Mount Ayr at ACGC

IKM-Manning at Southwest Valley

Earlham at Riverside

Friday, Oct. 18

South Central Calhoun at Earlham

Southwest Valley at ACGC

Logan-Magnolia at IKM-Manning

Riverside at Panorama

Friday, Aug. 30

Newell-Fonda at West Bend-Mallard

Remsen St. Mary’s at Harris-Lake Park

Boyer Valley at Griswold

Siouxland Christian at GTRA

Woodbine at Glidden-Ralston

West Harrison at East Mills

Friday, Sept. 6

West Harrison at Newell-Fonda

Siouxland Christian at Remsen St.

Mary’s

Woodbine at Boyer Valley

Friday, Sept. 13

Newell-Fonda at Woodbine

West Bend-Mallard at Remsen St.

Mary’s

Boyer Valley at West Harrison

Ar-We-Va at Siouxland Christian

Friday, Sept. 20

Harris-Lake Park at Newell-Fonda

Remsen St. Mary’s at Boyer Valley

Woodbine at Siouxland Christian

West Harrison at Ar-We-Va

Friday, Sept. 27

Newell-Fonda at Remsen St. Mary’s

Sidney at Boyer Valley

Siouxland Christian at West Harrison

Ar-We-Va at Woodbine

Friday, Oct. 4

Boyer Valley at Newell-Fonda

Remsen St. Mary’s at Ar-We-Va

Bishop Garrigan at Siouxland Christian

West Harrison at Woodbine

Friday, Oct. 11

Ar-We-Va at Newell-Fonda

Woodbine at Remsen St. Mary’s

Siouxland Christian at Boyer Valley

Griswold at West Harrison

Friday, Oct. 18

Newell-Fonda at Siouxland Christian

Remsen St. Mary’s at West Harrison

Boyer Valley at Ar-We-Va

East Mills at Woodbine

Friday, Aug. 30

Newell-Fonda at West Bend-Mallard

St. Edmond at Bishop Garrigan

Siouxland Christian at GTRA

Remsen St. Mary’s at Harris-Lake Prk

Janesville at Northwood-Kensett

Riceville at Rockford

Friday, Sept. 6

West Bend-Mallard at Bishop Garrigan

GTRA at Northwood-Kensett

Harris-Lake Park at Rockford

Friday, Sept. 13

West Bend-Mallard at Remsen St.

Mary’s

Bishop Garrigan at North Iowa

Rockford at GTRA

Northwood-Kensett at Harris-Lake Park

Friday, Sept. 20

GTRA at West Bend-Mallard

Bishop Garrigan at Northwood-Kensett

Harris-Lake Park at Newell-Fonda

North Iowa at Rockford

Friday, Sept. 27

West Bend-Mallard at Harris-Lake Prk

Rockford at Bishop Garrigan

GTRA at St. Edmond

Northwood-Kensett at North Iowa

Friday, Oct. 4

North Iowa at West Bend-Mallard

Bishop Garrigan at Siouxland Christian

Harris-Lake Park at GTRA

Northwood-Kensett at Rockford

Friday, Oct. 11

West Bend-Mallard at NorthwoodKensett

GTRA at Bishop Garrigan

Harris-Lake Park at North Iowa

Rockford at Janesville

Friday, Oct. 18

Rockford at West Bend-Mallard

Bishop Garrigan at Harris-Lake Park

North Iowa at GTRA

Northwood-Kensett at Dunkerton

Friday, Aug. 30

St. Edmond at Bishop Garrigan

Audubon at CAM

Coon Rapids-Bayard at Turkey Valley

Colo-Nesco at Murray

Collins-Maxwell at GMG

Friday, Sept. 6

Collins-Maxwell at St. Edmond

Colo-Nesco at Audubon

Baxter at Coon Rapids-Bayard

Friday, Sept. 13

St. Edmond at Baxter

Exira-EHK at Audubon

Coon Rapids-Bayard at Collins-Maxwell

Glidden-Ralston at Colo-Nesco

Friday, Sept. 20

Audubon at St. Edmond

CAM at Coon Rapids-Bayard

Collins-Maxwell at Colo-Nesco

Baxter at Glidden-Ralston

Friday, Sept. 27

GTRA at St. Edmond

Coon Rapids-Bayard at Audubon

Colo-Nesco at Baxter

Glidden-Ralston at Collins-Maxwell

Friday, Oct. 4

St. Edmond at Coon Rapids-Bayard

Audubon at Glidden-Ralston

English Valleys at Colo-Nesco

Baxter at Collins-Maxwell

Friday, Oct. 11

Colo-Nesco at St. Edmond

Collins-Maxwell at Audubon

Glidden-Ralston at Coon RapidsBayard

Baxter at Montezuma

Friday, Oct. 18

St. Edmond at Glidden-Ralston

Audubon at Baxter

Coon Rapids-Bayard at Colo-Nesco Collins-Maxwell at East Union

EXPECTATIONS REMAIN HIGH

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Derrick Elman has put all the pieces in place to produce playoff-contending teams year in and year out at Humboldt since taking over in 2018.

Elman has won 37 games during that period time, reaching the state semifinals twice under his direction.

With several key players back this fall, the expectations remain the same for the Wildcats.

“We will have to learn fast across the ball on offense,” Elman said. “We need to see our players step up and take on the challenge of playing varsity football.”

Quarterback

Coen Matson is one of those returning to the fold after throwing for 1,013 yards while rushing for another 488 in 2023. He could be counted on to shoulder more of the offensive load with the graduation of allstate running back Lance Coon.

Peyton Pedersen, a senior, received several carries a year ago. Classmate Mason Van Pelt was also involved in the run game, and caught 13 passes for 224 and a score. The receiver corps also lost Corey Dettmann, the school leader in receptions, to graduation.

are, front row (left to right): Jacob Girres, Karson Rubel, Chase Flaherty, Coen Matson, Peyton Pederson and Jackson Flaherty. Middle: Tristan Strait, Braiden Swanson, Cyler Cirks, Trey Al-Hameed, Mason Van Pelt, Broedy Hendricks and Zane McIntire. Back: Jack Guy, Keegan Groat, Kamdyn Haggard, Jackson Dodd, Syler Brown, Parker Sleiter, Landon Halverson and Cael Donahe.

The defense features defending state wrestling runner-up Broedy Hendricks, as the sophomore recorded six tackles for loss last year as a ninth-grader.

Cyler Cirks, Van Pelt, Cael Donahe, Zane McIntire, Parker Sleiter, Trey Al-Hameed, Jack Guy, Syler Brown and leading returning tackler Keegan Groat — who made the all-state team — are all back.

“I feel the strength of this year’s team will be experience on the defensive side of the ball and at the quarterback position,” Elman said. “We have gained

Photo by Phil Monson, Humboldt Independent

Derrick Elman

POCAHONTAS AREA

INDIANS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR POCAHONTAS AREA are, front row (left to right): Trevor Stuhrenberg, Logan Shiflett and Christian Valenzuela. Back: Gabe Ehn, Carson Bunda, Hunter Trewyn and Collin Dreith.

DEFENSE KEY FOR INDIANS SURGE

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

The Pocahontas Area football team has won at least four games each of the past six years. That includes a strong close to the 2023 campaign that resulted in a Class 1A playoff appearance behind a large group of key seniors. The Indians won their final two games, including their last three of four. Head coach Mike Ehn enters his 13th year at Pocahontas Area and 24th overall after 11 at Laurens-Marathon. Now, newcomers will be tasked with stepping and filling those holes including players such as

Mike Ehn

Gabe Ehn, Carson Bunda and Trevor Stuhrenberg.

“Our strengths are that we have had to play so many young kids,” said PAC head coach Mike Ehn. “They have had to learn on the curve to get better and that is huge.

“It’s fast moving climbing up that learning curve.”

Ehn, a senior, caught 14 passes for 223 yards with three TDs

INDIANS AT A GLANCE

POCAHONTAS AREA

Returning letterwinners (7): Carson Bunda, sr., QB/LB; Gabe Ehn sr., TE/ DE; Trevor Stuhrenberg, sr., C/LB; Hunter Trewyn, sr., OL/DL; Logan Shifflett, jr., RB/S; CoLlin Dreith, jr., WR/DB; Christian Valenzuela DB/WR.

2023 record: 4-5 overall, 3-2 in Class 1A, District 2.

Coach: Mike Ehn is beginning his 11th season leading the Indians and his 23rd

at

6 Okoboji

13 at

20

27

4

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

TITANS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN are, front row (left to right): Hayden Stickrod, Mike Trott, Caleb Juhl and Jace Pedersen. Back: Wyatt Mernka, Kaden Dorman, Cole Higgins, Marshall Bundt and Charlie Nattress.

TITANS STRIVE FOR CONTINUED SUCCESS

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

When a player put on a Titan football jersey at South Central Calhoun, the standard is going to be a lofty one. Coming off a five-win season and with 10 returning letterwinners, that remains the pitch for SCC head coach Bryan Case. Since 2008, the Titans have posted six seasons with at least 10 wins and 14

winning years overall, including back-toback 10-1 campaigns in 2018 and ‘19.

“We have an extremely tough schedule and a really good district,” Case said.

“We’re going to have to come together early, stay the course, and build some depth and confidence to have the kind of season we’re used to.

“Our expectations are always high, and this year is no different. I like the way our

team is working. Time will tell how that translates to wins and losses.”

South Central Calhoun must replace a pair of graduated all-staters in quarterback Gavin Batta and wide receiver Keegan Soard. Batta threw for over 1,600 yards and Soard

accounted for the majority of the receiving production.

Junior Charlie Nattress and senior Cole Higgins are back after combining for almost 500 yards receiving and 29 catches, while Higgins also ran for nearly 300 yards.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

See TITANS, Page 49

Bryan Case

GREENE COUNTY

RAMS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR GREENE COUNTY are, front row: Nick Stream. Back (left to right): Aden Bardole, Degan Miller, Crew Conner, Bryce Habben, Patrick Graham, Rafe Michaelsen, Camden Jacobs, Marcus Ball, Broc Stream, Drew Wolterman, Keagan Lawrence, Chris Daugherty, Camden Strennen, Phoenix Hartman, Joey Frantz, Trevon Keely and Kamden Kinne.

RAMS LOADED WITH EXPERIENCE

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Duncan believes a strong 2024 is in the cards, though, thanks to 19 returning letterwinners including eight starters.

“We are looking to get back to playing Ram football,” Duncan said. “Last year, we had a lot of injuries and just some unfortunate things happen. We’re hoping to get back to playing our physical, disciplined brand of football so that we can be more successful.”

Greene County finished 3-6 in 2023, ending a string of five consecutive winning seasons. That included back-to-back 8-2 campaigns under Duncan, a former standout at Prairie Valley.

The Rams will lean on returning offensive

linemen Kamden Kinne and Bryce Habben, as the two seniors anchor in the trenches. They are joined by skill positions players such as Nick Stream and Camden Strennen, who Duncan says “can do a lot of things for us.”

“We’re also excited about some of the young linemen who will help beef things up even more,” he said. “And some of the explosive players we have ready to contribute.”

Joining Kinne, Habben, Stream and Strennen from the senior class are Marcus Ball, Patrick Graham, Crew Conner and Camden Jacobs. Ball is another returning starters for the team.

RAMS AT A GLANCE

GREENE COUNTY

Returning letterwinners (19):

Kamden Kinne, OL/DL, sr.; Nick Stream, RB/ LB, sr.; Bryce Habben, OL/DL, sr.; Camden

Strennen, RB/LB, sr.; Marcus Ball, OL/ DL, sr.; Patrick Graham, RB/DL, sr.; Crew Conner, QB/WR, sr.; Camden Jacobs, WR/ DB, sr.; Keegan Lawrence, OL/DL, jr.; Chris Daugherty, RB/LB, jr.; Broc Stream, WR/DB, jr.; Rafe Michaelsen, TE/DL, jr.; Joey Frantz, OL/DL, jr.; Aden Bardole, RB/LB, jr.; Phoenix Hartman, RB/LB, jr.; Drew Wolterman, WR/ DB, jr.; Trevon Keely, WR/DB, soph.; Degan Miller, TE/LB, soph.; Bryce Stephenson, TE/ DL, soph.

Top prospects: Eyezayah Scheuermann, OL/DL, jr.; Mason Haley, OL/DL, soph.; Moses

soph.

OL/DL,

2023 record: 3-5 overall, 1-4 in district. Coach: Caden Duncan, a graduate of Prairie Valley and Iowa State University, enters his sixth season leading the Rams with a record of 35-14.

RAM SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 Carroll Sept. 6 at Perry

Sept. 13 ......................................... at Atlantic

Sept. 20 Saydel

Sept. 27 at Carroll Kuemper

Oct. 4 Roland-Story Oct. 11 ............................ at Southeast Valley Oct. 18 Des Moines Christian

Submitted Photo

Caden Duncan

Brown,

soph.; Zack Stalder, QB/TE,

Caden Duncan is the first to admit that the 2023 season did not go as planned for Greene County.

JAGUARS , Continued from Page 22

He is also one of the top tacklers on defense, coming off a year in which he recorded 23.5 tackles with four for loss and three sacks.

Hanson, also a senior, had 762 yards on the ground with 11 scores to go along with 16 receptions and 163 yards with a TD. Like Vansickle, he also shined on the defensive side of the ball, making 43.5 tackles with 39 solo stops.

Jaeschke, meanwhile, picked off three passes while also hauling in 21 receptions for 173 yards in his freshman campaign.

He was involved in the rushing game with 108 yards and two scores.

Joining those three are returning letterwinners Drew Temple, Casey Hanson, Gauge Jones, Nathan Graves, Ryan Wicklein, Carrick Maguire, Spencer Peterson, Aden Jepsen and Preston Kennedy.

Temple had 152 yards on the ground and recorded 32.5 tackles with eight for loss and four sacks. Kennedy had five sacks and Graves four with 28.5 tackles.

Brady Hanson was in on 43.5 tackles, picked off three passes and returned one for a score, while adding a kickoff return for a TD with a 26-yard average.

A total of seven freshmen and sophomores made contributions for the Jaguars and are expected to return this fall.

COUGARS , Continued from Page 20

including three to Condon, who had an impressive spring at the state track and field meet. Condon had 410 yards through the air, while Birkey ran for 521 with five scores. Harman added 188 yards rushing and Condon had another 164, with Patzner and Anderson both contributing in the passing attack.

On the defensive side of the ball, Birkey, Pohlman and Condon all eclipsed 40 tackles. Condon picked off three passes.

“We do lose a few key playmakers on offense and defense,” Noffsinger said. “We graduated some key pieces in our secondary, but should have guys ready to step in and fill those shoes.

“We won’t have a lot of size on the offensive and defensive lines, but can hopefully utilize our athleticism up front.”

SPORTS DEPARTMENT

713 Central Avenue, Fort Dodge, IA 50501

Contact information

Telephone: (515) 573-2141, ext. 435, 436, 438

Email: sports@messengernews.net Website: www.messengernews.net

Twitter: @ByEricPratt @ChrisJohnson_17 @DanaBecker

2023 AREA IPSWA ALL-STATERS

CLASS 4A

Dreshaun Ross, Fort Dodge ................................................ 1st team

CLASS

strength up front this year, and look to be bigger across both the offensive and defensive lines. I also feel that we return a core of linebackers which will help our defense in all pre-snap reads.

“Our linemen have done a tremendous job in the weight room. Most of them used the last year to develop and prepare for the varsity level.”

Isaiah Busick, Braiden Swanson, Carter Nostrom, Turner Hansen, Kamdyn Haggard, Alex Armitage, Tristin Strait, Ayden Fiengo, Cash McIntire, Chase Flaherty, Jackson Flaherty, Karson Rubel, Landon Halverson, Griffin Groat and Brayden Swanson are others expected to play important roles.

HUMBOLDT QUARTERBACK

Coen

runs against the Algona defense last season during a district contest.

WILDCATS AT A GLANCE HUMBOLDT

Returning starters (12): Coen Matson, sr.; Mason Van Pelt, sr.; Jackson Dodd, sr.; Jack Guy, jr.; Keegan Groat, sr.; Syler Brown, sr.; Broedy Hendricks, soph.; Trey Al-Hameed, sr.; Cael Donahe, jr.; Cyler Cirks, sr.; Zane McIntire, jr.; Parker Sleiter, sr. 2023 record: 5-5 overall, 3-2 in district.

Coach: Derrick Elman enters his seventh season leading the Wildcats, where he has posted an overall record of 37-24.

WILDCAT SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 at Spencer

Sept. 6 Ballard

Sept. 13 ....................................................... at Van Meter

Sept. 20 North Polk

Sept. 27 at Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Oct. 4 ............................................................ Charles City

Oct. 11 Algona

Oct. 18 at Clear Lake

Oct. 25 Webster City

INDIANS

, Continued from Page 30

last year, while Bunda — also a senior — caught five passes. Both were important on the defensive side of the ball as well, with Ehn making 48.5 tackles and Bunda 43.5.

Graduate Lucas Kopriva threw for 892 yards and 10 touchdowns.

On the ground last year, senior Ryan Sommerlot ran for 861 yards and eight scores. The only other rushing touchdown came from senior Ryan Panbecker, who had for 229 yards and a score.

Stuhrenberg, another 12th-grader, had 33.5 stops including a pair of sacks.

On the receiving end, seven of the 10 touchdowns came from seniors.

“We need to be balanced to be successful,” Ehn said. “We have a solid defensive line and good running backs with some good receivers.

“Our defense is pretty good with six of seven returnees from last year,” Ehn said. “Most kids earned some experience (in 2023).”

Mike Swieter

WILDCATS , Continued from Page 28

File photo by Rick Thompson

Matson

PREP FOOTBALL

STATE COLLEGE FOOTBALL SCHEDULES

LYNX , Continued from Page 24

having started last fall.

Other returning letterwinners include Jacob Feldhaus, Jake Rohmiller, Max McGilligan, Brian Alaniz, Brandon Newman, Jaxon Griffith, Cody Elliott and Eli Estlund. Six of those seven are members of the offensive and defensive lines, which have been a key strong point for the Lynx over the years.

Nixon ran for over 600 yards and scored seven touchdowns while Estlund added 351 and two scores as part of a rushing unit that racked up over 3,600 yards and 42 TDs. Estlund was also the leading receiver last year both in terms of catches and yardage.

Hrnicek, Weinzetl, Grifftih,

Estlund, Beau Nohrenberg and Bertran each recorded over 20 tackles with Weinzetl ranking among the team leaders with 57 stops including 16.5 for loss and six sacks.

“When it comes down to it, we have some big holes to fill,” Brim said. “We lose Jaxon Cherry, who is arguably the best player to ever put on a Lynx uniform. We lose Keegan Hisler, who was a great all-around football player. We lose a majority of our offensive line.

“And we lose Coach Bob Howard, one of the state’s best coaches.”

Webster City has had nine straight winning seasons including six years where they won at least eight games during that stretch.

LYNX AT A GLANCE

WEBSTER CITY

Returning letterwinners (16): Luke Estlund, RB/DB, sr.; Jayden Weinzetl, RB/DE, sr.; Cael Nixon, RB/LB, sr.; Jacob Feldhaus, OL/DL, sr.; Jake Rohmiller, OL/DL, sr.; Max McGilligan, OL/DL, sr.; Brian Alaniz, OL/DL, sr.; Brandon Newman, OL/DL, sr.; Carson Bertran, E/CB, sr.; Gabe Ruby, TE/LB, sr.; Aiden Hrnicek, RB/LB, jr.; Jaxon Griffith, RB/DB, jr.; Beau Nohrenberg, OL/DL, jr.; Cole Nohrenberg, OL/DL, jr.; Cody Elliott, OL/DL, jr.; Eli Estlund, OL/DL, jr. 2023 record: 8-3 overall, 4-1 in district.

Coach: Andy Brim enters his first season

as head coach after spending nearly two decades as an assistant for the Lynx.

LYNX SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 at Fort Dodge

Sept. 6 Spencer

Sept. 13 .................................... at North Polk

Sept. 20 .................................. West Delaware

Sept. 27 at Clear Lake

Oct. 4 Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Oct. 11 ......................................... Charles City

Oct. 18 at Algona

Oct. 25 at Humboldt

RAMS , Continued

from Page 34

Juniors Keegan Lawrence, Chris Daugherty and Broc Stream all started last year and are flanked by classmates Rafe Michaelsen, Joey Frantz, Aden Bardole, Phoenix Hartman and Drew Wolterman. Trevon Keely, Degan Miller and Bryce Stephenson all saw playing time as ninth-graders and return.

Conner and sophomore Zack Stalder are battling to replace Gabe Ebersole at quarterback. Last year, Ebersole threw for 1,430 yards and 13 touchdowns while leading the team with 417 yards rushing.

Strennen and Stream both went over 300 yards rushing and 100 yards receiving while handling return duties. Daugherty was the leading tackler with 48 stops including nine for loss.

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IOWA

Aug. 31 Illinois State

Sept. 7 Iowa State

Sept. 14 Troy

Sept. 21 at Minnesota

Oct. 5 at Ohio State

Oct. 12 Washington

Oct. 19 ........ at Michigan St.

Oct. 26 .......... Northwestern

Nov. 2 ................ Wisconsin

Nov. 8 ................... at UCLA

Nov. 23 ............ at Maryland

Nov. 29 ............... Nebraska

IOWA STATE

Aug. 31 North Dakota

Sept. 7 at Iowa

Sept. 21 Arkansas State

Sept. 28 at Houston

Oct. 5 Baylor

Oct. 12 at West Virginia

Oct. 19 Central Florida

Nov. 2 .............. Texas Tech

Nov. 9 ...... Kansas (in K.C.)

Nov. 16 ............... Cincinnati

Nov. 23 ................... at Utah

Nov. 30 ......... Kansas State

because it all goes by so fast.” Manske and Limbaugh will be joined by fellow AHS seniors Tate Slagle — a University of Iowa baseball recruit — and Aiden Ulrich. The quartet landed first team all-district spots in 2023, along with returning junior Evan Allie.

The Bulldogs were 6-4 last season. Head coach Andy Jacobson’s squad reached the 3A playoffs, where they were caught from behind by Sioux Center in the opening round, 28-21.

Three of Algona’s four losses a year ago were by a touchdown or less. Now, the team must replace the departure of a large 20-player senior class.

The 2024 Bulldogs are undeterred. Fifteen letterwinners are back in all, including senior regulars Manske, Limbaugh, Slagle, Ulrich, Ashton Moreno, Landon Thompson, Drew Schutjer and Ryan Weier.

“We want to go to state and win a state championship: that is our class and team’s ultimate goal,” Manske said. “We know it’s not easy and we have to work for that every day.

“I know I have to be at my best every day to give us the best chance to win.”

Limbaugh feels the preparation for this particular season dates back much longer than this summer, or even a year or two ago.

NORTHERN IOWA

Aug. 31 Valparaiso

Sept. 7 at St. Thomas

Sept. 14 at Nebraska

Sept. 21 at Hawaii

Oct. 5 South Dakota St.

Oct. 12 at South Dakota

Oct. 19 at North Dakota

Oct. 26 Missouri State

Nov. 2 at North Dakota St.

Nov. 9 ............. Illinois State

Nov. 16 . at Youngstown St.

Nov. 23 ......... Indiana State

COVER , Continued from Page 3

DRAKE

Aug. 29 ................... Quincy

Sept. 7 at E. Washington

Sept. 21 .... at South Dakota

Sept. 28 San Diego

Oct. 5 at Valparaiso

Oct. 12 ...................... Butler

Oct. 19 at Presbyterian

Nov. 2 ....................... Marist

Nov. 9 at St. Thomas

Nov. 16 Morehead State

Nov. 23 at Stetson

“The relationships we have with each other are special,” Limbaugh said. “We’ve been playing football together since sixth grade. When you’re on the field together for that long, you build (strong chemistry) with guys from those experiences.”

The connection Manske and Limbaugh share is particularly close.

“Alex and I have a special bond, being neighbors and good friends for as long as I can remember,” Limbaugh said.

“It’s been so cool to be able to go through these experiences with him (the Algona teammates committed to head coach Matt Campbell’s Cyclones within seven weeks of each other).

“I attribute a lot of my success to my teammates. Without them giving me great looks at every practice, I would not be in the position I’m in right now. And with the community’s outstanding support, we are able to do a lot of things that we wouldn’t otherwise be able to.” Manske concurred.

“Jack and I have a great relationship, knowing each other since we were really young living right by each other,” Manske said. “Now, both being able to live out our dreams (at the next level for ISU) is a really cool thing.”

But today and in the weeks to come, there’s work to be done as Bulldogs.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

ALGONA HEAD COACH ANDY JACOBSON with his senior all-staters, Alex Manske and Jack Limbaugh.

EAGLES

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR EAGLE GROVE are, front row (left to right): Jayden Kreitlow, Leelan Spencer, Jackson Babcock, Dylan Terwilliger, Arturo Salazar, Josh Miller and Jesus Baez. Back: Connor Willard, Hayden Schafer, Reece Demuth, Gavin Pedersen, James Harle, Brett Ascherl, Camden Sisson, Adrian Whipple and Trenton Robinson. Not pictured: Jaxon Morris.

SLEW OF RETURNEES KEY FOR EAGLES

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Logan Willard is hoping that a large group of letterwinners and key starters can lead the Eagle Grove football team to a strong 2024 campaign.

Willard, a former Eagle himself, has 17 players back with experience. Thirteen were starters a season ago.

Junior Leelan Spencer is coming off a 245-yard rushing campaign and is the top returning offensive skill player, while classmate Hayden Schafer, senior Brett Ascherl and sophomore Adrian Whipple are also in the mix.

“We have a strong nucleus of returners and we are striving to finish in the Top-2 in

district play,” Willard said.

“In order for this to happen, we need to clean up our turnover issue and pre-snap penalities. Improvement in both should come with experience.

“Our offensive line is a strong point for us and we should have good chemistry there with a veteran group.”

Schafer, Camden Sisson, Ascherl, Reece Demuth, Kaden Dayton, Trenton Robinson and

EAGLES AT A GLANCE

EAGLE GROVE

Returning letterwinners (17): Brett

Ascherl, QB/DB, sr.; Jackson Babcock, RB/DB, soph.; Jesus Baez, G, sr.; Kaden Dayton, LB, jr.; Reece Demuth, G/DT, jr.; James Harle, G/DT, jr.; Jayden Kreitlow, DT, jr.; Jose Maldonado, DT, sr.; Josh Miller, RB/DB, sr.; Jaxon Morris, sr.; Gavin Pederson, TE/DB, soph.; Arturo Salazar, T/DE, soph.; Trenton Robinson, C/DE, soph.; Hayden Schafer, LB, jr.; Camden Sisson,WR/DB, soph.; Leelan Spencer, RB, jr.; Adrian Whipple, QB/DB, soph.

2023 record: 0-9 overall, 0-6 in district.

EAGLE SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 at Clarion-Goldfield/Dows Sept. 6 ................................................Southeast Valley Sept. 13 Forest City

Sept. 20 at Sioux Central Sept. 27 Manson NW Oct. 4 .................................................. East Sac County Oct. 11 at Emmetsburg Oct. 18 at Pocahontas Area

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Logan Willard

Coach: Logan Willard, a graduate of Eagle Grove, enters his fifth season with the program.

COWBOYS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR CLARION-GOLDFIELD/DOWS are, front row (left to right): Kolton Hefti, Charlie Campbell, Jaxen Engstrom, Selvin Gonzalez and JD Morrical. Back Row: Owen Sweeney, Bryce Lindaman, Cesar Rosales, Cole Rothman and Huxley Lingenfelter. Not pictured: Caleb Seaba.

COWBOYS HOPING YOUTH PREVAILS

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Coming off a three-win season, the Clarion-Goldfield/Dows football team looks to regroup this fall.

After winning just four games total from 2018-20, the Cowboys have picked up 12 victories over the last three seasons combined.

Several key pieces have graduated, though, including quarterback Carson Nesheim, top rusher Diego Gonzalez and leading receiver Colin Kirstein.

Caleb Vogel

“Though we lost a number of seniors, I am excited about the athletes I have,” C-G/D head coach Caleb Vogel said. “We will be young at a lot of positions but they are experienced. We strive to be 1-0 everyday.

“If we can be better today and not let yesterday or

Returning letterwinners (12): Owen

Sweeney, WR/DB, sr.; Caleb Seaba, RB/LB, sr.; Jaxen

Engstrom, WR/DB, sr.; Bryce Lindaman, OL/DL, sr.; Cole Rothman, OL/DL, sr.; Selvin Gonzalez, RB/DB, jr.; Huxley Lingenfelter, TE/LB, soph.; JD Morrical, QB/DB, soph.; Charlie Campbell, RB/DB, soph.; Kolton Hefti, WR/DB, jr.; Hunter Sutton, OL/DL, sr.; Cristian Rosales, OL/DL, sr. 2023 record: 3-6 overall, 2-3 in district.

Coach: Caleb Vogel enters his fourth season

leading the Cowboys.

COWBOY SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 Eagle Grove

Sept. 6 ......................... at Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Sept. 13 Southeast Valley

Sept. 20 at Garner-Hayfield/Ventura

Sept. 27 Estherville-LC

Oct. 4 ................................................... at Forest City Oct. 11 Okoboji Oct. 18

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

CLARION-GOLDFIELD/DOWS

BULLDOGS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR ALGONA are, front row (left to right): Landon Thompson, Will Weichert, Ashton Moreno and Tate Garman. Middle Row: Aiden Ulrich, Evan Allie, Taevyn Zinnel, Tate Slagle and Drew Schutjer. Back: Max Nevitt, Tyson VanDeWalle, Alex Manske, Ryan Weier and Jack Limbaugh. Not pictured: Foster Myhre.

ALGONA READY TO MAKE NOISE

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

With two future Div. I players, the expectations remain high for the Algona football program this fall.

Seniors Alex Manske and Jack Limbaugh both committed to Iowa State University already and are coming off strong seasons in which the Bulldogs went 6-4 in a loaded Class 3A district.

“We are looking forward to working with a large senior class with a lot of experience,” Algona head coach Andy Jacobson said. “In order to be successful, we must continue to improve and find depth.”

Andy Jacobson

Manske, a three-time all-stater, threw for almost 1,800 yards and ran for 714 with 17 passing TDs and 12 rushing scores. He had just three interceptions and completed 61 percent of his passes.

Leading receiver Porter Reffer has graduated with Tate Slagle and Evan Allie the leading returning players back. Slagle has committed to the University of Iowa

BULLDOGS AT A GLANCE

ALGONA

Returning letterwinners (15): Alex Manske, QB/DB, sr.; Jack Limbaugh, TE/DL, sr.; Tate Slagle, WR/ DB, sr.; Ashton Moreno, RB/DB, sr.; Landon Thompson, RB/LB, sr.; Drew Schutjer, OL/DL, sr.; Ryan Weier, OL, sr.; Aiden Ulrich, OL/DL, sr.; Taevyn Zinnel, RB/LB, jr.; Evan Allie, RB/DB, jr.; Will Weichert, RB/DB, jr.; Tyson VanDewalle, RB/LB, jr.; Tate Garman, RB/DB, jr.; Foster Myhre, OL/DL, jr.; Max Nevitt, OL/DL, jr.

Top prospects: Nathan Manske, QB/DB, soph.; Tate Carter, OL/DL, jr.; Will Limbaugh, OL/DL, soph.; Brody Shipler, OL/CB, soph.

2023 record: 6-4 overall, 3-2 in district.

Coach: Andy Jacobson enters his 11th season

at the helm with the Bulldogs after having previously served under Jeff Anliker at Manson Northwest Webster.

BULLDOG SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 ..................................................... at Spirit Lake

Sept. 6 at Forest City Sept. 13 Estherville-LC Sept. 20 Boyden-Hull/Rock Valley Sept. 27 ................................................ at Charles City Oct. 4 Clear Lake

Oct. 11 at Humboldt

Oct. 18 ..................................................... Webster City Oct. 25 at Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Photo by Greg Grabianowski

GARRIGAN ALGONA

BISHOP GARRIGAN

GOLDEN BEARS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR BISHOP GARRIGAN are, front row (left to right): Scott Bormann, Tate Foertsch, Andrew Lichter, Owen Murphy, Keaton Helleseth, Trayton Cink and Thadd Kollasch. Back: Nick Thul, Daniel Meis, Drew Muller, Nick Leerar, Ethan Marso, Carter Schwab, Wyatt Rosenmeyer and Isaac DeLange.

CHAMPS TAKE AIM ON ANOTHER RUN

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

It was a magical season for legendary Bishop Garrigan head coach Marty Wadle and the Golden Bears last fall.

After dropping their opening game of the season, Garrigan ran the table, ending it in the UNI-Dome as eight-player state champions.

Now, 15 letterwinners are back — including six starters, led by standout quarterback Tate Foertsch.

As a sophomore, Foertsch threw for over 1,400 yards and had a 21-to-2 touchdownto-interception ratio. He also ran for 571 yards and scored 11 more TDs to lead the

Golden Bear offense.

“We should be competitive and can hopefully be near the top of our district,” Wadle said. “We need to stay healthy and get better each week.

“We have good depth at several positions on offense but will be replacing key players at receiver and linebacker on defense.”

Returning linemen Keaton Helleseth and Carter Schwab are back up front along

BISHOP GARRIGAN

Returning letterwinners (15): Tate Foertsch, QB, jr.; Keaton Helleseth, OL/DE, sr.; Carter Schwab, OL/DL, jr.; Ethan Marso, FB/DE, jr.; Owen Murphy, WR, sr.; Andrew Lichter, LB, sr.; Wyatt Rosenmeyer, TE, sr.; Treyton Cink, RB/DB, sr.; Eric Thul, OL, sr.; Drew Muller, TE/DE, sr.; Isaac DeLange, WR/DB, sr.; Scott Bormann, OL/K, sr.; Thadd Kollasch, WR/DB, sr.; Nick Leerar, TE/DE, sr.; Daniel Meis, WR/DB/P, sr.

Top prospects: Kyle Bormann, RB/Ret, jr.; Mike Joyce, WR/DB, soph.

Last season: 12-1 overall, 6-0 in district (eight-player state champions).

Coach: Marty Wadle enters his 33rd season with the Golden Bears and is coming off a state title — the second in school history and first for Wadle. He is 228-96 overall in his career.

GOLDEN BEAR SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 St. Edmond

Sept. 6 West Bend-Mallard

Sept. 13 ............................................. at North Iowa

Sept. 20 at Northwood-Kensett

Sept. 27 Rockford

Oct. 4 .................................... at Siouxland Christian Oct. 11 GTRA Oct. 18 at Harris-Lake Park

Photo by Greg Grabianowski

GOLDEN BEARS AT A GLANCE

Marty Wadle

BIHOP GARRIGAN CELEBRATES after winning the eight-player state championship in 2023.

Pictured (left to right) are Brody Ludwig (22), Carter Schwab (53), Sam Plathe (24), Benjy Trainer (4), Isaac DeLange (25), Andrew Lichter (15) and Logan Nemmers (74).

COWBOYS

, Continued from Page 40

worry about tomorrow, we will be a darn good team.”

Looking to fill those holes will be returning starters Owen Sweeney, Jaxen Engstrom, Cole Rothman, Charlie Campbell, Selvin Gonzalez, Huxley Lingenfelter, Caleb Seaba and Bryce Lindaman.

Sophomores JD Morrical and Caden Hauenstein are leading candidates to replace Nesheim at quarterback.

Campbell ran for 249 yards, scored four touchdowns and recorded 39 tackles as a freshman while classmate Lingenfelter led the team with 46 tackles and also had 56 yards receiving and a score.

“We have a lot of kids that will be starting on varsity for the first time,” Vogel said. “We are a tough, physical team. When things don’t go our way, we don’t give up.”

The Cowboys finished tied for third in Class 2A, District 2 a season ago.

Jaxon Morris all had over 10 tackles last year and are back along with Jackson Babcock, Jesus Baez, James Harle, Jayden Kreitlow, Jose Maldonado, Josh Miller, Gavin Pederson and Arturo Salazar.

“Running between the tackles should be a strong area,” Willard said. “Filling in gaps for players we lost will be important. We lost some really good players that we need to replace.”

One of those is Robinson, as the sophomore had eight tackles for loss with 3.5 sacks last year to rank among the team leaders while also scoring a rushing touchdown.

with fellow starters Ethan Marso, Andrew Lichter and Wyatt Rosenmeyer. Helleseth was an all-stater last year as a junior.

Trayton Cink, Eric Thul, Drew Muller, Isaac DeLange, Scott Bormann, Thadd Kollasch, Nick Leerar and Daniel Meis provide experience to help replace those lost due to graduation for Wadle, who owns 228 wins in 32 seasons on the sideline.

Marso ran for 285 yards and scored eight times, Murphy had 185 yards rushing and Cink 162 while Murphy and Leerar are the leading returning receivers.

On defense, Rosenmeyer, Marso, Lichter, DeLange, Helleseth, Schwab and Leerar were all key pieces. Helleseth had seven sacks, Marso six and Leerar four.

The Golden Bears shined in the turnover department, recording 23 takeaways and scoring three times on interceptions.

Since 2006, Garrigan has recorded eight seasons with at least nine wins and 13 years with a winning record overall.

play baseball, making the all-state team this past summer. Allie is also the leading rusher back after recording 744 yards.

“Alex, Jack, Tate and Evan are all great athletes we will look to lead us,” Jacobson said. “They are also great kids.

“The offensive line and linebacker positions both lost a lot, and losing Porter Reffer was a big loss for us.”

Manske, Limbaugh, Slagle, Ashton Moreno, Landon Thompson, Tate Garman and Aiden Ulrich were all key contributors on the defensive side of the ball. Slagle led the team with 58 tackles while Thompson had 55.5.

GOLDEN BEARS , Continued from Page 44

Messenger file photo by Britt Kudla

Messenger file photo

EAGLES , Continued from Page 38

WOLVERINES

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR WEST BEND-MALLARD are front row (left to right): Clint Fehr, Austin Schmidt, Jayson Akridge and Cesar Falcon. Back: Abner Zaugg, Micah Fehr, Cole Fehr, Tyler Fogarty and Leydan Grimm.

WOLVERINES BUILDING ON SUCCESS

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Coming off back-to-back 7-3 seasons, West Bend-Mallard will lean on eight returning starters to keep the momentum headed in the right direction.

Cole Fehr, Clint Fehr and Austin Schmidt all return after starting last season for the Wolverines and head coach Tyson Wirtz, who is a former West Bend-Mallard standout himself.

Joining those three are returning letterwinners Tyler Fogarty, Micah Fehr, Jayson Akridge, Cesar Falcon, Leydan Grimm and Abner Zaugg.

They will be tasked with helping replace plenty of offensive production from departed senior Landon Montag, as he accounted for over 2,300 yards

of offense and 40 touchdowns.

Cole Fehr ran for just under 1,000 yards and scored 14 times last year while Schmidt had 100 yards rushing and a TD. They are also the leading receivers back, with Schmidt expected to step in at the quarterback position.

“A lot of holes need to be filled,” Wirtz said. “We will return a few strong leaders but need a lot of new guys to step up.

“Our attitude and effort are first and

WOLVERINES AT A GLANCE

WEST BEND-MALLARD

Returning letterwinners (9): Cole Fehr, RB/LB, sr.; Clint Fehr, OL/DL, sr.; Austin Schmidt, QB/ DB, sr.; Tyler Fogarty, TE/LB, sr.; Micah Fehr, TE/DB, sr.; Jayson Akridge, OL/DL, jr.; Leydan Grimm, RB/LB, jr.; Abner Zaugg, OL/DL, so.; Cesar Falcon, 150, RB/LB., so.

Top prospects: Eli Hanson, RB/DB, sr.; Wesley Anderson, TE/LB, sr. 2023 record: 7-3 overall, 5-1 in district.

Coach: Tyler Wirtz, a former Wolverine standout and graduate of Simpson College, enters his fourth

season as head coach and eighth overall as the head coach at the school. Wirtz’s overall record is 19-18.

WOLVERINE SCHEDULE

Aug. 30

Newell-Fonda

Sept. 6 ............................................ at Bishop Garrigan

Sept. 13 at Remsen St. Mary’s

Sept. 20 GTRA

Sept. 27 .........................................at Harris-Lake Park

Oct. 4 ........................................................... North Iowa

Oct. 11 at Northwood-Kensett Oct. 18 Rockford

Photo by Greg Grabianowski

Tyson Wirtz

MUSTANGS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR NEWELL-FONDA are, front row (left to right): Trevor Tauber, Jayde Naughton, Guyson Lyman, Max Carlson and Jacksyn Hogrefe. Back: Liam Gauley, Brayden Johnson, Jackson Bellcock and Lincoln Gauley.

BARON TAKES OVER FOR MUSTANGS

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

For the first time in over 20 years, a new leader will guide Newell-Fonda into the upcoming football season.

Nathan Baron, a long-time assistant for the Mustangs, takes over for Brian Wilken. Baron inherits a veteran group, with five returning starters and four more regulars back in the mix.

“This team has all the potential to return to the football playoffs,” Baron said. “We’ll need to stay healthy in order to do so. If we can improve each day, we will have a successful season.”

Max Carlson is one of those key five, as the senior ran for over 500

yards and added 258 more in the air. He was also one of the leading tacklers on defense with 41 stops.

Trevor Tauber, a junior, had over 300 yards of total offense and is also returning along with receivers Jacksyn Hogrefe and Guyson Lyman. Hogrefe had 117 yards receiving and Lyman 84.

Jayde Naughton, Brayden Johnson, Jackson Bellcock, Liam Gauley and Lincoln Gauley all return with experience.

“Our senior leadership of Max, Guyson, Jayde and Hunter (Watts) has been great,” Baron said. “I look for all those young men to have a great season.”

Under Wilken’s tenure, the Mustangs won 191 games. He finished his career with a mark of 199-71 in a 25-year span as a head coach.

Submitted photo

Nathan Baron

MUSTANGS AT A GLANCE

NEWELL-FONDA

Returning letterwinners (9): Max Carlson, QB/DB, sr.; Guyson Lyman, TE/DE, sr.; Jayde Naughton, LB, sr.; Jacksyn Hogrefe, SE/DB, jr.; Trevor Tauber, QB/DB, jr.; Brayden Johnson, OL/DL, soph.; Jackson Bellcock, FB/LB, soph.; Liam Gauley, OL/DL, soph.; Lincoln Gauley, OL/DL, soph. Top prospects: Hunter Watts, SE/DB, sr.; Landen Kruse, RB/LB, jr. 2023 record: 3-5 overall, 3-3 in district.

Coach: After two-plus decades as an assistant, Nathan Baron takes over for Brian Wilken as head coach of the Mustangs.

MUSTANG SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 .............................................................................. at West Bend-Mallard

Sept. 6 West Harrison

Sept. 13 at Woodbine

Sept. 20 ..................................................................................... Harris-Lake Park Sept. 27 .............................................................................. at Remsen St. Mary’s Oct. 4 Boyer Valley Oct. 11 Ar-We-Va

18 .............................................................................. at Siouxland Christian

Check out The Messenger every Saturday for Friday’s highlights

TITANS

, Continued from Page 32

Andrew Anderson, a senior, will get the first opportunity to replace Batta under center.

“We have great tradition, a good nucleus to build around, good team speed and a great attitude heading into the season,” Case said. “We also have good depth at the skill positions. Our overall numbers are just average and we are young or lack inexperience in some key positions.

“Overall, we are lacking in terms of size along the lines.”

The defense is anchored by Caleb Juhl, Kaden Dorman, Higgins, Nattress, Jace Pederson and Wyatt Mernka.

Other returning letterwinners include Mike Trott, Malakye Didelotte, Marshall Bundt and Hayden Strickrod.

TITANS AT A GLANCE

SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN

Returning letterwinners (10): Cole Higgins, RB/ LB, sr.; Caleb Juhl, RB/DB, sr.; Mike Trott, FB/LB, sr.; Kaden Dorman, FB/LB, sr.; Malakye Didelotte, FB/LB, sr.; Charlie Nattress, TE/LB, jr.; Jace Pedersen, OL/DL, jr.; Wyatt Mernka, OL/LB, jr.; Marshall Bundt, OL/DL, soph.; Hayden Stickrod, RB/DB, soph.

Top prospects: Andrew Anderson, QB/DB, sr.; Grady Isaacs, RB/DB, sr.; Matthew Hardy, OL/DL, sr.; Kayden Hammen, SE/DB, sr.; Sam Cardwell, OL/DL, jr.; Quinn Roller, OL/DL, jr.; Garrett Krause, SE/LB, soph.; Evan Myers, SE/LB, soph.; Adam Finley, OL/DL, soph. 2023 record: 5-4 overall, 4-2 in district.

Coach: Bryan Case has spent the past 22 seasons as a head coach, putting together a career record of 185-60. That includes 109 wins with South Central Calhoun.

TITAN SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 Pocahontas Area Sept. 6 ............................................................. Southwest Valley Sept. 13 .................................................................. at Riverside Sept. 20 at ACGC Sept. 27 IKM-Manning Oct. 4 at West Hancock Oct. 11 ........................................................................ Panorama Oct. 18 ...................................................................... at Earlham

EAST SAC COUNTY

RAIDERS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR EAST SAC COUNTY are, front row (left to right): Carson Schmitt, Cal McCollough, Gabe King and Landon Grindle. Back: Kade Snyder, Seth Donelson, Jack Gullett, Asher Lawler and Sam Julin.

RAIDERS CLIMBING THE LADDER

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

The East Sac County football team scored four wins last fall, doubling their total from the two prior seasons combined.

Now, the task for head coach Eric McCollough and his Raiders to improve upon that.

Eight return including seniors Jack Gullett, Asher Lawler, Landon Grindle and Sam Julin. They are joined by juniors Seth Donelson and Kade Snyder, along with sophomores Carson Schmitt and Cal McCollough.

Eric McCollough

“We are going to struggle with low team numbers,” McCollough said. “Several young players are going to have to step up before they are ready to play varsity.

“We feel we can compete with most teams on our schedule if we can stay injury-free. We have to grow a lot in practice

RAIDERS AT A GLANCE

EAST SAC COUNTY

Returning letterwinners (9): Jack Gullett, RB/ DB, sr.; Asher Lawler, WR/DB, sr.; Landon Grindle, RB/ LB, sr.; Carson Schmitt, RB/DB, soph.; Gabe King, RB/LB, soph.; Sam Julin, TE/DL/P, sr.; Seth Donelson, OL/DL, jr.; Cal McCollough, OL/DL, soph.; Kade Snyder, OL/DL, jr.

Top prospects: Dawson Allen, RB/LB, soph.; Mike Manzer, OL/DL, jr.; Brooks Ludwig, OL/DL, soph.; Tyler Renze, OL/DL, soph.

2023 record: 4-5 overall, 2-4 in district.

Coach: Eric McCollough has spent the past twoplus decades coaching high school football, winning

81 games during that time — including 70 with the Raiders.

RAIDER SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 ....................................................... IKM-Manning Sept. 6 at OBACIG Sept. 13 Missouri Valley Sept. 20 ....................................................... Emmetsburg Sept. 27 at Pocahontas

Oct. 4

Photo by Dale Wegner, The Sac Sun

NORTH UNION

WARRIORS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR NORTH UNION are, front row (left to right): Caden Walders, Drew Henderson, Draven Keeler and Carter Martens. Back: Nick Hanson, Cole Nicoson, John Walter, Lucas Dreyer, Brennan Bollinger and Grady Madden. Not pictured: Khael Jones.

WARRIORS RIDING MOMENTUM

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

For the first time in 12 years, North Union is coming off back-to-back winning seasons, posting matching 5-4 records under Matt Ernster recently.

The Warriors will have 10 letterwinners back in the fold this fall as they look to make it three straight.

Leading the way is Grady Madden, as the senior threw for over 1,000 yards with 14 touchdowns last year. He also was second on the team with 292 yards rushing but will be breaking in a new cast of receivers to work with.

Matt Ernster

“We feel we have more depth than we’ve had in the past,” Ernster said. “We will be able to rotate and keep guys fresh throughout the games and season, and that will benefit us.”

Draven Keeler, Nick Hanson, Drew Henderson and Eli Oleson all contributed a

WARRIORS AT A GLANCE

NORTH UNION

Returning letterwinners (10): Grady

Madden, QB/LB, sr.; Brennan Bollinger, OL/DL, sr.;

Carter Martens, OL/DL, sr.; Nick Hanson, WR/LB, sr.; Lucas Dreyer, OL/DL, sr.; Caden Walders, WR/ DB, sr.; Eli Oleson, WR/LB, sr.; Cole Nicoson, OL/DL, jr.; Drew Henderson, WR/DB, jr.; John Waller, DL, jr.

Top prospects: Khael Jones, WR/DB, jr.; Draven Keeler, RB/LB, jr.; Lane Bruhn, OL/DL, jr.; Max Merrill, OL/LB, soph.; Greyson Colegrove, WR/DB, soph.

2023 record: 5-4 overall, 3-3 in district.

Coach: Matt Ernster enters his eighth season

leading the Warrior prorgram, after previously coaching at Carroll Kuemper. Ernster is a graduate of North Kossuth and the University of Northern Iowa.

WARRIOR SCHEDULE

Aug. 30 at Okoboji

Sept. 6 at Saint Ansgar

Sept. 13 Belmond-Klemme

Sept. 20 West Hancock

Sept. 27 at Lake Mills

Oct. 4 at West Fork

Oct. 11 Mason City Newman

Oct. 18 at Sibley-Ocheyedan

Submitted photo

WARRIORS , Continued from Page 52

year ago and will be counted on for more this season.

Madden, Oleson, Caden Walders, John Waller, Lucas Dreyer and Brennan Bollinger return to anchor a defense that forced 17 turnovers and recorded 31 tackles for loss.

“We are looking to make it back to the playoffs for the third straight season,” Ernster said. “We feel that we have the pieces to be very competitive in our district but we must take care of the football, create explosive plays and play well as a team for this to happen.

“Grady had a great year in his first season as a QB starter and Brennan was been a two-time all-district performer. Having them back is a great place for our team to start.”

Check out The Messenger every Saturday for football highlights

RAIDERS , Continued from Page 50

and our non-district games.”

Grindle led the team in rushing last year while Gullett and Schmitt both contributed to the ground attack. Julin is the leading returning receiver while Gullett, Schmitt and Lawler all caught passes.

Leading tacklers Karter Ludwig and Luke Wernimont will need to be replaced as they have both graduated, taking their 150-plus tackles with them.

The Raiders forced 28 turnovers

a season ago, including 17 interceptions. Lawler had three of those and Snyder recovered a pair of fumbles.

“We have had a strong turnout of young players that worked hard in the weight room this summer,” McCollough said. “The kids we do have work hard.”

East Sac County opens its season on Friday at home against IKM Manning. The Raiders play four home games this season.

WOLVERINES , Continued from Page 46

foremost our strengths. This whole team worked hard all offseason and camp, and they are a great group of young men.”

On the defensive, Cole Fehr and Schmidt are the leading returning tacklers.

The schedule will be loaded

THE CREDITS

The 67th annual Messenger Footbal Preview Edition was a combined effort of the sports staff and advertising department.

Messenger 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 collected other data. Pictures were taken by Britt Kudla, Phil Monson, David Borer and Greg Grabianowski.

Nick Manwarren designed the cover. Kudla took the cover photo in Algona.

once again, as West Bend-Mallard opens with perennial playoff qualifier Newell-Fonda at home on Friday before back-to-back road games against the two recent state champions in eight-player — Bishop Garrigan and Remsen St. Mary’s.

Best of luck to all Messenger-area programs in the upcoming football season. Please remember to call or e-mail results to our staff immediately after your games conclude. We are dedicated to providing the most extensive football coverage around, but we need your help in completing our mission!

—The Messenger Sports Staff

2024 IOWA CENTRAL TRITON FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

8/24 at Community Christian (Mich.) ................. @11:00am Detroit, MI

9/07 vs Highland Community College - Kansas....... @12:00pm Dodge Stadium | Fort Dodge, IA

9/14 at Hutchinson Community College……….. @12:00pm Hutchinson, KS

9/21 vs lowa Western Community College* .... @12:00pm Dodge Stadium | Fort Dodge, IA

9/28 at Dodge City Community College……….. @11:00am Dodge City, KS

10/05 vs College of DuPage ................................ @12:00pm Dodge Stadium | Fort Dodge, IA 10/12 vs Coffeyville Community College ............. @7:00pm Dodge Stadium | Fort Dodge, IA (Homecoming) 10/19 vs Ellsworth Community College*.......... @12:00pm Dodge Stadium | Fort Dodge, IA 11/02 at Independence Community College ........... @1:00pm Independence, KS 11/09 vs Garden City Community College ....... @11:00am Dodge Stadium | Fort Dodge, IA (Hall of Fame Weekend) 11/16 at Butler Community College - KS ............... @1:30pm BG Products Veterans Sports Complex | El Dorado, KS

2024 IOWA CENTRAL TRITON DANCE TEAM

Front Row: (L-R) Patience Johnson, Kyla Hatfield, Jasmine Sliefert, Madeline Utter, Taylor Estes, Sofia Hobbs, Olivia Blankenfeld, Kayla Keokham, Kaydence Fansega, Jazmin Williams, McKenna Mathis

Middle Row:(L-R) Ella Sells, Olivia Patrick, Miranda Pohlman, Dakota Villareal, Reese Pederson, Jaidynn Knapp, Juliana Warren, Celeste Figueroa, Rayniya Rice, Delaney Bickel, Daria Kline, Paris Florian

Back Row: (L-R) Ashlyn Waldera, Annabelle Tomes, Rellana Van Deuren, April Naeve, Brianna Davis, Kynzie Schroeder, Daniel Hughes, Allee Schantz, Ann Cornell, Natasha Johnson, Brooklyn Osborn, Kaycee Rubel, Ava Guy

E-HAWKS BUILD ON DISTRICT TITLE

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

The Emmetsburg football team is loaded with experience this coming year after going a perfect 5-0 in district play while winning seven games overall.

Leading the pack of 16 letterwinners is 14 starters including 11 seniors.

Gavin Swanson racked up over 800 yards of total offense and is back at quarterback with Carson Baak and Brayden Yates joining him in the backfield. Baak rushed for almost 700 yards and Yates added 304 while Byron Maina was the leading receiver for the E-Hawks.

“We lost a couple of good seniors from last year but do return a good amount of players with a lot of experience,” Emmetsburg head

coach Ben Thomsen said. “We still have to continue to produce on the field and have great practices to work towards our goals.”

Collyn Trembly, Justin Wirtz, Tyler Albrant, Tanner Reinholdt, Keegan Hamerlinck, Nick Saxton, Carter Hudson, JJ Fiene, Ryan Wirtz, Matt Malm, Owen Householder and Cameron Madden are also back.

Baak, Swanson, Maina, Yates, Ryan Wirtz, Justin Wirtz and Fiene all had over 20 tackles last year with Ryan Wirtz recording a teamhigh 3.5 sacks. Madden picked off five passes, Swanson and Baak each had three as part of 23 turnovers and five defensive scores.

“Our rushing attack should be strong once again,” Thomsen said. “We have a lot of playmakers on defense.”

Emmetsburg reached the second round of the Class 1A playoffs last year, falling 9-7 to Sumner-Fredericksburg.

The E-Hawks open at home on Friday against Central Lyon/G-LR.

Des Moines Christian .... 4-5... 3-2

Southeast Valley 5-4 2-3

Greene County 3-5 1-4

Saydel ............................ 1-8... 0-5

CLASS 1A, DISTRICT 2

All Dist

Emmetsburg .................. 7-3... 5-0

Pocahontas Area 4-5 3-2

Manson NW 3-6 3-2

East Sac County ............. 4-5... 2-3

Sioux Central 3-5 2-3

Eagle Grove 0-9 0-5

CLASS A, DISTRICT 2

All Dist

Saint Ansgar 10-1 5-0

West Hancock.............. 12-1... 5-1

Lake Mills ....................... 7-3... 3-2

North Union 5-4 3-3

5-0 Estherville-LC 5-4 4-1

City 4-5 2-3

... 3-6 ... 2-3

.......................... 2-7... 2-3

2-7 0-5

CLASS 2A, DISTRICT 8

All Dist

Carroll Kuemper 8-3 5-0

Roland-Story 7-3 4-1

West Fork 3-6 1-4

Mason City Newman ..... 2-6... 1-4

Belmond-Klemme 1-8 0-6

CLASS A, DISTRICT 7

All Dist

ACGC 10-1 6-0

South Central Calhoun 5-4 4-2

Earlham .......................... 5-4... 4-2

IKM-Manning 4-5 3-3

Panorama 4-4 2-4

Riverside ........................ 4-5... 2-4

Southwest Valley............ 2-6... 0-6

8-MAN-1

All Dist

Remsen St. Mary’s ......... 9-1... 5-0

Boyer Valley 6-4 4-2

Woodbine 5-4 4-2

Ar-We-Va 5-3 3-3

Newell-Fonda ................. 3-5... 3-3

West Harrison 1-7 1-5

Siouxland Christian 0-8 0-6

8-MAN-2

All Dist

Bishop Garrigan 12-1 6-0

West Bend-Mallard 7-3 5-1

Harris-Lake Park............. 5-4... 4-2

GTRA ............................. 3-5... 2-4

Northwood-Kensett 3-5 2-4 North Iowa 2-6 2-4 Rockford 0-8 0-6

8-MAN-9 All Dist Audubon 8-2 6-0 Glidden-Ralston ............. 6-3... 5-1 Baxter ............................ 5-4... 3-3 Coon Rapids-Bayard 3-5 3-3

E-HAWKS AT A GLANCE

EMMETSBURG

Returning letterwinners (16): Carson Baak, RB/LB, sr.; Gavin Swanson, QB/FS, sr.; Byron Maina, WR/DB, sr.; Collyn Trembly, RB/DL, sr.; Brayden Yates, RB/LB, jr.; Justin Wirtz, OL/LB, sr.; Tyler Albrant, OL/DL, sr.; Tanner Reinholdt, OL/ DL, sr.; Keegan Hamerlinck, OL/DL, sr.; Nick Saxton, OL/DL, jr.; Carter Hudson, OL/DL, sr.; JJ Fiene, TE/DL, sr.; Ryan Wirtz, OL/DL, jr.; Matt Malm, QB/DB, jr.; Owen Householder, RB/LB, jr.; Cameron Madden, WR/DB, sr. 2023 record: 7-3 overall, 5-0 in district (champions).

MESSENGER-AREA TEAMS IN STATE TITLE GAMES

2023............................... Bishop Garrigan 39, Bedford 30

2021 Southeast Valley 30, West Lyon 13 (2A)

2016 Pella 28, Webster City 18 (3A)

2016 Gladbrook-Reinbeck 20, Bishop Garrigan 19 (A)

2014 Newell-Fonda 39, Fremont Mills 35 (8-Man)

2013 Iowa City Regina 35, St. Edmond 0 (1A)

2009 Southern Cal 28, MC Newman 27 (OT) (A)

2008 Southern Cal 22, North Tama 21 (OT) (A)

2006 Humboldt 27, Clear Lake 9 (3A)

2005 Iowa City Regina 19, Bishop Garrigan 8 (1A)

2005 North Mahaska 21, West Bend-Mallard 6 (A)

2004 West Bend-Mallard 40, North Mahaska 7 (A)

2003 Emmetsburg 24, Clarinda 14 (2A)

2003.............. Sentral Fenton 28, Adair-Casey 20 (8-Man)

2002...................... Emmetsburg 35, Williamsburg 32 (2A)

2002.................... Sentral Fenton 44, Farragut 34 (8-Man)

2000 Emmetsburg 21, Solon 3 (2A)

2000 Southern Cal 26, Aplington-Parkersburg 8 (1A)

1999 West Marshall 24, Bishop Garrigan 15 (1A)

1999 West Bend-Mallard 32, Madrid 29 (A)

1998 West Bend-Mallard 30, Madrid 24 (1A)

1998 Emmetsburg 43, Highland-Lone Tree 6 (2A)

1996 Guthrie Center 42, West Bend-Mallard 8 (A)

1994 West Bend-Mallard 16, Winfield-MU 15 (OT) (A)

1994 Hudson 42, Pocahontas Area 22 (1A)

1993 Aplington-P’burg 26, Pocahontas Area 7 (1A)

1991 West Branch 42, West Bend-Mallard 13 (1A)

1990 Southern Cal 17, Parkersburg 10 (1A)

1990.................... Emmetsburg 22, Mount Vernon 21 (2A)

1989........... Laurens-Marathon 41, North Mahaska 26 (A)

1989...................... Emmetsburg 27, Mount Vernon 0 (2A)

1988 Solon 20, Emmetsburg 16 (2A)

1987 Wapsie Valley 28, Emmetsburg 21 (2A)

1986 Paton-Churdan 20, Sanborn 14 (4 OT) (A)

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

ETHAN MARSO of Bishop Garrigan celebrates a victory in the UNI-Dome last season.

1986 Wapsie Valley 28, Emmetsburg 21 (2A)

1985 Bishop Garrigan 30, CR LaSalle 14 (2A)

1984 Pocahontas 15, Center Point 6 (1A)

1984 Grundy Center 21, Emmetsburg 7 (2A)

1983 Sutherland 13, Graettinger 12 (A)

1983 Cedar Rapids LaSalle 26, Emmetsburg 7 (2A)

1982 Pekin Packwood 15, West Bend 6 (1A)

1979............................ Emmetbsurg 10, Urbandale 9 (3A)

1978............ Cedar Rapids Regis 42, Emmetsburg 7 (3A)

1977............................ Emmetsburg 40, Audubon 13 (3A)

1976 Conrad-BCL 14, Graettinger 8 (1A)

1976 Waterloo Columbus 13, Emmetsburg 7 (3A)

1975 Urbandale 38, Emmetsburg 11 (3A)

Ben Thomsen

Coach: Ben Thomsen enters his fourth season leading the E-Hawks after coaching at Benton.