2023 Football Preview

Secor DO Lisa Chase ARNP

Ann Feser ARNP

Jennifer Zigrang ARNP

Elizabeth Stoebe DO Tayler Rasch ARNP

Jennifer Pudenz ARNP

2023 is shaping up to be the year of high-profile area recruits

Football is the ultimate team sport, and no one would be quicker to point that out than returning area all-state gridiron standouts Jaxon Cherry, Lance Coon and Alex Manske — the three cover subjects for our 66th Messenger Football Preview.

ERIC PRATT

We tend to emphasize the individual efforts of athletes in this sport, especially at the skill positions. Statistics are flashy, and fans take notice of numbers and records, even though it certainly takes a village of blockers and other teammates for players to perform at an elite level.

Preseason excitement is again surrounding the Webster City, Humboldt and Algona camps, because in 2023, Cherry, Coon and Manske are among the very best — not just in our area, but the entire state.

See AREA, Page 3

file photo JAXON CHERRY OF WEBSTER CITY was Class 4A’s leading rusher last season.

Cherry is a dominant presence in both the backfield and as a linebacker for head coach Bob Howard’s Lynx. A chiseled 6-foot-2, 225-pound force, Cherry has a Div. I offer from Marshall University. Many other Div. I and FCS programs have lined up and taken notice.

Last season, Cherry ran for a Class 4A-best 1,804 yards and 31 touchdowns at well over eight yards per carry. He is now just 832 yards away from passing Gavin Dinsdale at the top of Webster City’s career rushing charts.

Coon — like Cherry, a senior and returning first team IPSWA all-stater — is the main attraction in Humboldt’s offensive attack. The 5-9, 185-pounder racked up 1,566 yards and 21 TDs in 2022, as the Wildcats reached the 3A state semifinals for the second consecutive season.

Unfortunately, the electrifying Coon suffered a broken bone in his hand during a

recent scrimmage and is out indefinitely. The hope is that Coon will return to head coach Derrick Elman’s lineup at some point later in the year.

Manske is just a junior at Algona, but he’s already landed on the radar of several Div. I schools. The 6-foot3, 210-pound quarterback features the prototypical size and athleticism. He already has offers from Iowa, Kansas State, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Minnesota and Pittsburgh after a productive summer.

Many more are likely to come.

Manske’s teammate, 6-4, 228-pound defensive end Jack Limbaugh, is another top prospect as just a junior. Limbaugh’s offer sheet is similar to Manske’s thus far: Iowa,

Have an Outstanding Football Season Gaels, Dodgers & Tritons!

Kansas State and Nebraska are flanked by Iowa State and Kansas State.

Fort Dodge sophomore Dreshaun Ross may end up being the most highprofile recruit of the lot before all is said and done. Ross, a linebacker, garnered immediate attention as a starting freshman for the Dodgers last fall. Iowa was the first to court the 6-3, 210-pound Ross with a scholarship package. Iowa State, Nebraska, Purdue, Missouri and Minnesota have followed.

In many ways, Ross is already the most highly sought-after FDSH football player in school history. By the time wrestling programs are able to match the enthusiasm — Ross is a blue-chip national mat prospect and the topranked recruit in the United States for the Class of 2026, but by NCAA rule, schools aren’t allowed to formally offer him until Sept. 1 of his junior year — football coaches will have a head start and be lined up by the dozens.

It’s all just noise and hype for now, though. Cherry, Coon, Manske, Limbaugh and Ross would all trade the long-term individual attention and notoriety in for a chance to help Webster City, Humboldt, Algona and Fort Dodge, respectively, achieve success on the field in 2023. The more their teammates are able to collectively rise to the occasion, the better those chances become.

Let the games begin!

ON THE COVER: returning first team area all-state football players Jaxon Cherry of Webster City, Lance Coon of Humboldt and Alex Manske of Algona. (Messenger photos by Britt Kudla)

Alex Manske Jack Limbaugh

AREA , Continued from Page 2

Photo by Rick Thompson/Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

HUMBOLDT’S LANCE COON (LEFT) AND DRESHAUN ROSS OF FORT DODGE are among the area’s top players — and prospects — in 2023.

DODGERS GO BACK TO WORK

By ERIC PRATT, Sports Editor

There are more questions than answers in the Fort Dodge football camp right now.

Head coach Nik Moser is quick to point out the uncertainty isn’t necessarily a negative, though. The Dodgers aren’t lacking talent or potential. They’re just largely untested as it stands in August.

“We’re going to be really inexperienced — there’s no question about that,” said Moser, who is in his fourth season at the helm. “Most of these kids haven’t played a ton of football at the varsity level. But that’s OK. There is a high ceiling with this group.

“They work hard and they work well together. That’s important. There are good days and bad at this point, but that’s preseason football in a nutshell. Finding that level of consistency and learning from your mistakes is what it’s all about.”

Just seven starters return to the lineup in 2023, and Moser has one of the program’s smallest senior classes on record. Depth is a concern coming off a 4-5 campaign, but the players in camp are invested and ready to go.

“We always preach getting better every single day,” said Moser, who has a career record of 14-13 to date. “That’s never been

See DODGERS, Page 5

FORT DODGE’S RETURNING LETTERWINNERS are, front row (left to right): Drayton Miller, Zeke Pineda, Jordan

Lessmeier, Drew Moritz, Karsen Smith, Aidan Koufos and Malaki Pettigrew. Back: Isaiah Caldwell, Royce Pederson, Parker Schillerstrom, Cal Hartman, Dreshaun Ross, Justin Krog, Grant Williams, Jase Nekvinda and Ty Adams.

2023 DODGER FOOTBALL

ROSTER

Seniors (11) — Isaiah Caldwell, 185, DE; Drew Moritz, 180, DB; Cal Hartman, 200, LB/FB; Ty Adams, 180, WR/DB; Grant Williams, 190, WR/DB; Parker Schillerstrom, 155, K; Justin Krog, 170, WR; Karsen Smith, 190, DL; Drayton Miller, 220, OL/DL; Zeke Pineda, 220, OL/DL; Malaki Pettigrew, 170, WR/DB.

Juniors (19) — Jordan Lessmeier, 145, WR/DB; TyReese Hill, 145, DB; Royce Pederson, 180, QB/LB; Jamarius Gibbs-Green, 170, RB/RB; Jase Nekvinda, 165, QB; Hunter Richardson, 150, LB; Jonathan Brown, 165, WR/DE; Collin Tornabane, 160, WR; Jesus Gutierrez, 195, RB; Tyler Jacklowsky, 170, RB; Kolton Tiernan, 155, RB/DB; Kaden Froisland, 145, DB; Quantaze Jordan, 160, RB/DB; Mason Liska, 190, LB; Gavin Pederson, 230, OL/DL; Nate Taylor, 240, OL/DL; Jackson McQuillen, 190, OL; Brayden Reimers, 165, WR/DB; Aiden Behrens, 175, WR/DB.

Sophomores (16) — Dreshaun Ross, 210, RB/LB; Jesse Egli, 175, DB; Dalton Eckley, 155, WR/DB; Owen Stok, 155, WR/DB; Noah Daniel, 175, RB/DB; Tytrell Mosley, 150, WR; Taevon Feeley, 150, DB; Drew Mason, 140, DB; Caiden Fraher, 175, LB: Kauner Jensen, 195, OL; Carter Short, 290, OL; Orrin Rurup, 265, OL/DL; Luke Fierke, 295, OL/DL; Tisyn Hook, 148, WR; Teran Beekman, 150, DB; Brennen Stickrod, 185, DL.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Nik Moser 4th season

more relevant than it is right now. We’re hoping to look back in a few weeks and see how far we’ve come since the (beginning of August), then do the same by the middle and the end of the season. That gradual progression is where the big strides will ultimately be made.”

OFFENSE

The Dodgers are ostensibly starting from scratch when they have the ball, thanks to a combination of heavy graduation losses and prior injury issues. Only receivers Grant Williams and Ty Adams and kicker Parker Schillerstrom are back, as Moser and his staff begin to mold a different gameplan and approach around a revamped backfield and offensive line.

Moser likes what he sees from his linemen, though they are — collectively — an unproven commodity. Injuries robbed senior Drayton Miller, junior Gavin Pederson and sophomore Luke Fierke of their 2022 campaigns, but all three are ready to make up for lost time this fall.

“We’re going to go as our offensive line goes,” Moser said. “We have size and strength...maybe the biggest we’ve been top to bottom in a while. But we’re going to have to be patient, because they’re still developing and we don’t have any (varsity starts) under our belt yet.”

Miller (6-foot-1, 220 pounds) and Pederson (511, 230) are more athletic and versatile. Fierke (6-5, 295) and fellow sophomore Carter Short (6-2, 290) “are just massive,” according to Moser.

“Again, it’s early with those

four, but there’s a really high (collective) ceiling there,” Moser said. “Like the team (as a whole), we’re just trying to find that rhythm and level of consistent performance and production.”

Junior Jackson McQuillen (6-3, 190), junior Nate Taylor (5-9, 240) and sophomore Kauner Jensen (6-1, 195) are also vying for time in the trenches.

“We aren’t overly deep at any position,” Moser said.

“So we have a small margin for error when it comes to injuries. It is what it is...we just have to make the most of

our options.”

Juniors Jase Nekvinda and Royce Pederson are the program’s top quarterback candidates. Nekvinda is a 165-pound right-hander and more of a running threat; Pederson is a 180-pound lefty with a traditional drop-back style.

“They complement each other well,” Moser said. “There will be some mistakes given their overall lack of experience, but they’re going to make plays. They’re both tough competitors and spent (this past summer) as varsity baseball pitchers. We’re

going to look a lot different without (two-year star and Bemidji State recruit Connor Carver, who graduated), but it’s next man up. This is Jase and Royce’s time, and I anticipate both playing.”

The running back situation is a work in progress as well. Versatile star athlete Dreshaun Ross will share the workload with his classmate, fellow sophomore Noah Daniel, as both are expected to see time on both sides of the ball. How much, exactly, remains to be seen.

“We’ll see how it goes,” Moser said. “A lot depends on

situation,” Moser said. Williams (20 receptions, 305 yards, 6 touchdowns) and Adams (15-267-3) were reliable targets for Carver in 2022. Both offer size with their ability; Williams is 6-4 and 190, while Adams is 6-2 and 180.

“We’ll be leaning on Grant and Ty quite a bit because of their experience, but also, as leaders,” Moser said. “We need them to set the tone. They’re big, physical kids.”

Senior Malaki Pettigrew saw spot varsity time last season, and “has grown a lot,” Moser said. “He’s always on the doorstep.”

Juniors Brayden Reimers and Collin Tornabane will be joined in the corps by sophomores Dalton Eckley and Owen Stok.

Sophomore Tytrell Mosley — the younger brother of former FDSH all-stater Trey Mosley — is someone we “need to get the ball to in space,” Moser added.

“Like Trey, he’ll be able to make things happen as a speed/sweep guy,” Moser said. “Tytrell’s a playmaker.”

the opponent and situation. Ideally, we’d like to limit (the touches) for Dreshaun and Noah, because they’re primarily defensive players. But you can’t ignore their potential. Dreshaun is almost 6-4 and 210 pounds. Noah has a lot of speed and can get to the edge in a hurry.”

Senior Cal Hartman, who started on the offensive line a year ago, will be the fullback. Juniors Jesus Gutierrez and Jamarius Gibbs-Green are also potential backfield options.

“We have a lot of moving pieces, so it’s a fluid

Schillerstrom made 22 of 26 extra points a year ago. He’s in his third season at the varsity level.

DEFENSE

Ross is known for his wrestling prowess, but he was a rare freshman starter for Moser as an outside linebacker and rush end in 2022. The state champion on the mat immediately popped up on the radar of many Div. I grid programs. He already has offers from Iowa, Iowa State, Nebraska, Missouri, Purdue and Minnesota.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

WIDE RECEIVERS FOR FORT DODGE are, front row (left to right): Collin Tornabane, Tytrell Mosley, Owen Stok and Malaki Pettigrew. Back Row: Ty Adams, Grant Williams, Justin Krog, Tisyn Hook, Dalton Eckley and Brayden Reimers.

DODGERS , Continued from Page 4 See DODGERS, Page

“We’ll use Dreshaun in a lot of different ways,” Moser said. “The key is finding the balance to keep him strong, effective and fresh. His wingspan is so long; he covers a lot of territory, and he’s getting smarter and more comfortable as a football player by the day.

“We’re going to lean on Dreshaun quite a bit. He’s a natural leader who is going to be a really good ballplayer for our program. But he’s also just 15 years old, and he’s only really in his fourth year of competitive football. We’ll see him progressing every day, but he still hasn’t quite ‘arrived’ just yet. We’re just lucky to have Dreshaun on our side.”

The 200-pound Hartman was everywhere a year ago, leading the squad in both interceptions and fumble recoveries. He was also the only non-senior captain.

“I’d take 22 Cal Hartmans on my team every season,” Moser said. “He’s going to give you everything he has. He’ll be an outside linebacker, and play a little defensive end.”

Pederson will flank Hartman on the outside, while junior Mason Liska joins Ross on the inside.

“Royce and Mason will make things happen,” Moser said. “I like what our linebackers have to offer.”

Senior Isaiah Caldwell (6-2, 185) returns as a starter at defensive end after leading the Dodgers in sacks last fall. Classmate Zeke Pineda (220) is back on the inside up front.

“Isaiah has a high motor. He’ll make plays for you,” Moser said. “Zeke is a hard worker who is in good shape. They’re both reliable seniors.”

Junior Jonathan Brown is a “longer, athletic defensive end, kind of like Isaiah,” Moser added. Pederson, Taylor, Fierke and Miller are all possibilities as well.

roles. Daniel — the younger brother of former Dodger standouts Sam, Noah and James Daniel — will be a free safety.

“Drew has a ton of experience coming back and was one of our most active players defensively (last year),” Moser said. “Noah

is kind of a combination of all three of his brothers. I see a little of all of them in him. And Jesse has a ton of potential.”

There are five contenders at the two cornerback slots: Williams, Adams, Pettigrew, junior Jordan Lessmeier and sophomore Taevon Feeley.

City’s move to 3A. Sioux City West joins Denison-Schleswig, Storm Lake, Le Mars and Spencer as Fort Dodge’s district foes.

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NIK MOSER on his Fort Dodge football team

DODGER SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 ............................................. at Webster City

Sept. 1 ..................................................... Mason City

Sept. 8 at Dallas Center-Grimes

Sept. 15 ............................................... Waterloo East

Sept. 22 Denison-Schleswig

Sept. 29 ............................................... at Storm Lake

Oct. 6 LeMars

Oct. 13 ......................................... at Sioux City West

DODGERS , Continued from Page 6

“It’s an interesting mix (of opponents),” Moser said. “We go way back with Mason City and Waterloo East. Webster City is always strong under Coach Howard, and Cherry’s as good as it gets. He’s probably the best player we’ll see all season. They’ll be among the top teams in all of 3A.

“DC-G is something new. I’ve known (Mustang head coach) Scott Heitland for a long time. His dad (Brad) and my dad are close friends, with Brad being from the area and having a successful 20-plus year career in Algona. We’re looking forward to that one, and we’re even planning on making it a trophy game: the ‘Beisser Lumber Bowl. They’re headquartered in Fort Dodge, but they also have a big location in Grimes.”

Moser will again be assisted by Blake Utley, Dan Adams, Jon Koenig, Jerry Ellendson, Tyler Winter, Ben Schnurr, Kevin Astor and Keaton Martin. Former Dodger all-stater Kadyn Preston joins the staff as a volunteer assistant.

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

FORT DODGE

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN FOR FORT DODGE are, front row (left to right): Gavin Pederson, Zeke Pineda, Caiden Fraher, Karsen Smith and Nathan Taylor. Back Row: Drayton Miller, Royce Pederson, Brennen Stickrod, Jay Brown and Cal Hartman.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla QUARTERBACKS FOR FORT DODGE are (left to right): Jase Nekvinda and Royce Pederson.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

KICKERS FOR FORT DODGE are (left to right): Cal Hartman, Grant Williams and Parker Schillerstrom.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla FORT DODGE’S DRESHAUN ROSS tackles a Marshalltown player last year at Dodger Stadium.

By ERIC PRATT, Sports Editor

The Class 4A, District 1 landscape was left relatively unscathed when new assignments were doled out for 2023 and 2024, with one major exception.

Fort Dodge, Spencer, Storm Lake, Le Mars and Denison-Schleswig remained members of the division. Two-time defending champion Webster City is gone, though, as the Lynx shift back to Class 3A.

Sioux City West replaces Webster City — which lost only one district contest in the last two years combined — on the docket.

“It’s still a tough lineup of teams,” Dodger head coach Nik Moser said. “Spencer is always a playoff contender, and Le Mars really hitting its stride as a program. I would say those two (squads) will be right at the top. There is some uncertainty with everyone else.”

That includes FDSH, which is replacing 16 senior starters from a year ago. The Dodgers were 4-5 overall and 2-3 in the district, finishing behind the Lynx (6-4, 4-1), Tigers (73, 4-1) and Bulldogs (6-4, 3-2). The Monarchs (4-5, 2-3) and Tornadoes (0-9, 0-5) rounded out the standings.

“We’ll know a lot more about ourselves by the time we get to district play (on Sept. 22),” Moser said. “There are just a lot of question marks — not just for us, but I’m sure all of the other programs (in the district).

“I’m encouraged by how our guys are working, both together and for the good of the program. Depth is a concern; we have to stay as healthy as possible. But again, I know if you ask every coach (in the league), I’m sure they’re saying the same thing.”

Seniors Cal Hartman (LB/FB), Grant Williams (WR/DB), Ty Adams (WR/DB), Isaiah Caldwell (DL), Drew Moritz (DB) and Parker Schillerstrom (K) are back for Fort Dodge, along with defensive standout Dreshaun Ross. The 210-pound sophomore state wrestling champion, who will play inside linebacker and rush end, also expects to see time in the offensive backfield this year.

Ross has already received Div. I offers from Iowa, Iowa State, Nebraska, Purdue, Missouri and Minnesota.

Spencer welcomes back leading rusher Adrian Carrillo, who racked up 1,204 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground as a junior

a year ago. Miles Robbins, a 220-pound juinor who scored three times and rushed at over eight yards per carry, is expected to be a key contributor offensively as well for veteran head coach Jim Tighe’s ballclub. Robbins and Carrillo are defensive leaders, along with 195-pound defensive back Eli Hoofkin. Robbins was a unanimous first team all-district linebacker as an underclassmen in 2022. Hoofkin and returnee Luke Wiebers (defensive back) were first teamers as well.

Le Mars is anchored by unanimous first team all-district lineman Evan Jalas, who is back after a standout season last fall for coach Ken Vigdal. Quarterback Teagan Kasel (1,373 passing yards, 12 touchdowns) and wide receiver Beau Wadle (20 catches, 342 yards, 3 TDs) were second team choices as juniors, along with classmate Alex Allen (defensive line).

Denison-Schleswig’s Luke Wiebers (defensive back) and Jake Fink (punter) made the first squad in 2022. Both return, along with second-teamer Blaine Brodsky (linebacker). The Monarchs will be under the direction of first-year head coach Dave Wiebers.

Second-team linebacker Joey Rice is back as a senior for Storm Lake, which has a new

leader in Drake Curry. Sioux City West was 3-6 last year. Junior linebacker Alonso Cota, one of the

Wolverines’ leaders in tackles, tackles for loss and sacks, is the linchpin for head coach Brandon Holmes.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN FOR FORT DODGE are, front row (left to right): Gavin Pederson, Zeke Pineda, Kauner Jensen and Drayton Miller. Back Row: Jackson McQuillen, Luke Fierke, Carter Short and Orrin Rarup.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

DEFENSIVE BACKS FOR FORT DODGE are, front row (left to right): Aidan Koufos, Jordan Lessmeier, TyReese Hill, Michael Kintigh, Kaden Froisland, Drew Mason and Jamarius Green. Back Row: Taevon Feeley, Jesse Egli, Kolton Tiernan, Noah Daniel, Grant Williams, Jase Nekvinda, Hunter Richardson, Ty Adams and Malaki Pettigrew.

FAMILIAR FOES FOR DODGERS

FORT DODGE LEADERS

ST. EDMOND LEADERS

Gael

Miklo (1972)

5. Tad Lindner (1979)

Gael Career Passing Touchdowns

1. Tad Lindner (1977-79)

2. Drew Schaeffer (2018-20)

3. Tom Miklo (1971-72) .......................................

4. David Flattery (2010-12) .................................. 19

5. John Engler (2006-08)

Gael Single-Season Passing Touchdowns

1. Drew Schaeffer (2020)

2. Josh Bradley (2005)

3. (tie) Tad Lindner (1979)

3. (tie)

................................... 15

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)

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

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

1986 Wapsie Valley 28, Emmetsburg 21 (2A)

(2011) 23

Gael Career Passing

Gael Career Receptions

11

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)

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)

....................................... 50

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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)

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)

Tad Lindner (1978)

5. Tom Miklo (1972)

1. Dave Conell (1977-80).....................................

2. Landon Peed (2011-14)

3. Parker Oswald (2019-20)

4. Craig Schlienz (1992-95)

5. Dave Lang (1980-82)

MESSENGER-AREA TEAMS IN CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla GRANT WILLIAMS cuts upfield for Fort Dodge last season inside Dodger Stadium. Williams returns as a top receiver, and will also play defensive back and punt.

GAELS ARE READY TO ROLL

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Each fall, Matt Dillon comes into camp with the same energy he had all those years ago as a player himself.

This season is no different for Dillon, as expectations around his St. Edmond football program are as high as ever.

Last year, the Gaels finished 4-4, winning two of their last three down the stretch. It marked just the second time in seven years they finished with a record at .500 or better.

“We’ve got great energy,” Dillon said. “It will probably be another pretty small group when all is said and done going into Week 1, but we’ve got great leadership out of our seniors, a strong junior class and some sophomores who were thrown to the wolves last year and are now ready to make an impact.

“I like this group, and I’m excited about what we can do. We’ve still got to go out each week, play hard and compete, but we have all the makings of something special here.”

That starts with one of those seniors in returning quarterback JT Laufersweiler. He is joined by classmate Leo Ehn to form the senior class this year for the Gaels.

“Just great leaders,” Dillon said. “JT has the chance to be one of the best quarterbacks in eight-player and Leo has really improved from last year.”

The bulk of the starting unit will be formed by juniors including three-year starter Adam Walker.

“It’s probably our strongest class,” Dillon said. “Looking at it right now, we won’t start

a senior on defense.”

Other returning starters include Klay Baker, Dominic McClain, Sam Myer and Kinnick Henning.

OFFENSE

It all starts with Laufersweiler, as the senior completed over 50 percent of his passes for 1,409 yards with 15 touchdowns. He also led the Gaels with 521 yards rushing and 13 scores, averaging six yards per rush.

“His consistency has improved so much,”

ROSTER

Seniors (2) — JT Laufersweiler, 175, QB/DB; Leo Ehn, 185, TE/DL.

Dillon said. “He’s become a better, more vocal leader who realizes this is his team and his last chance at the high school level. JT has the ability to play at the next level at a D2, D3 or NAIA school, and I am so excited to see what he does on the field this season.

“What really separates him is that he has all three aspects in the arm, the legs and the brain. It is very rare that you get all three from a kid and JT is a special, special player.”

In his career, Laufersweiler has thrown for 1,945 yards with 21 touchdowns, rushing

2023 GAEL FOOTBALL

Juniors (5) — Klay Baker, 185, RB/DB; Quintin Jaeschke, 190, G/DE; Sam Myer, 165, RB/LB; Dominic McClain, 175, TE/DE; Adam Walker, 230, OL/DL.

Sophomores (8) — Grant Galles, 135, WR/DB; Jakob Koopman, 160, TE/LB; Ethan

for another 687 and 16 scores.

Backing up Laufersweiler will be Ethan Swisher, as the sophomore threw a touchdown and ran in another last year with over 100 yards from scrimmage.

“Ethan is going to be very good for us once JT graduates,” Dillon said. “We’ve really become a strong program at the quarterback position since I took over. It started with

Swisher, 140, QB/DB; Kinnick Henning, 150, WB/LB; Jacob Moore, 150, OL/DL; Koleman Hanson, 180, G/DE/K; Jossef Taveras, 260, OL/DL; Max Webster, 255, OL/DL.

Freshmen (7) — Ty Mericle, 145, QB/DB; Griffin Laufersweiler, 125, WR/DB; Haydyn Harman, 130, WR/DB; Aaron Hindt, 150, RB/LB; Dallas Groves, 175, RB/DE; Jacob Nieland, 245, OL/DL; Evan Christiansen, 175, TE/DE.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR ST. EDMOND are, front row (left to right): Grant Galles, Jakob Koopman, Sam Myer, Kinnick Henning, Koleman Hanson and Max Webster. Back Row: JT Laufersweiler, Adam Walker, Quintin Jaeschke, Leo Ehn, Dominic McClain, Klay Baker and Ethan Swisher.

See GAELS, Page 13

Matt Dillon 6th season

GAELS , Continued from Page 12

Drew Schaeffer and moved to his brother, Caleb, before JT.”

Baker racked up 343 yards rushing and another 77 yards receiving with six TDs as a 10th-grader last year, but has “only gotten bigger, stronger and more physical,” says Dillon.

“Klay is a kid that has that ability to hit a hole and run over a linebacker,” Dillon said. “He’s really improved in all aspects of his game since last year. I’m expecting big, big things out of him.”

Sam Myer, who had the majority of his 177 yards and two touchdowns in relief of Baker when he was injured last year vs. Northwood-Kensett, returns, along with Henning, who had 177 yards and two TDs.

“Kinnick will start at wingback but can also slide over to tailback,” Dillon said. “Sam is very, very capable of being our RB1, which he showed last year.

“It’s definitely nice to have some depth at the running back position.”

McClain will shift to split end after catching 11 passes for 191 yards with three touchdowns last year, while Ehn takes over at tight end after hauling in three balls for 60 with two scores. They will be tasked to help replace the production lost by Johnny Dickerson, who had 54 receptions for 856 yards and eight TDs.

Jakob Koopman is another target for Laufersweiler, as he had four receptions for 76 yards before an injury.

Walker will be joined by junior Quintin Jaeschke and sophomore Max Webster to form the offensive line for the Gaels.

“Adam is going to be one of the top players at his position in our district and eight-player football,” Dillon said. “He has it all and had a great offseason where he worked his tail off and bulked up to 230 pounds.

“Max is just a sophomore, but is a very smart player who will handle center well. And Quintin continues to improve each day."

See GAELS, Page 14

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

DEFENSIVE LINEMEN FOR ST. EDMOND are, front row (left to right): Adam Walker, Koleman Hanson, Kinnick Henning and Max Webster. Back Row: Quintin Jaeschke, Leo Ehn, Evan Christiansen, Jacob Moore and Jacob Nieland.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

DEFENSIVE BACKS for St. Edmond are (left to right): Grant Galles, Ethan Swisher, Griffin Laufersweiler, Jakob Koopman and JT Laufersweiler.

GAEL SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 ................................................ Bishop Garrigan

Sept. 1 at Collins-Maxwell

Sept. 8 .................................................................. Baxter

Sept. 15 ....................................................... at Audubon

Sept. 22 at GTRA

Sept. 29 ......................................... Coon Rapids-Bayard

Oct. 6 ....................................................... at Colo-Nesco

Oct. 13 Glidden-Ralston

DEFENSE

Many of the same names will also start on defense for St. Edmond, with Henning and Webster alternating depending on the opponent at nose guard. Walker and Jaeschke will handle the defensive end positions.

“Many of these guys were needed to take on key snaps for us last year,” Dillon said. “Now, they know what to expect and we are counting on them.”

Walker recorded 26.5 tackles with five for loss and a team-leading four quarterback sacks, while Henning had 36.5 tackles. Koleman Hanson, a sophomore, can rotate in at any spot along the line.

Myer returns to anchor the linebacker spot with a variation of Swisher, McClain, Baker and Koopman next to him. Last year, Myer led St. Edmond with 51.5 tackles including two for loss, while McClain had 18 tackles.

Swisher, McClain and Koopman can all switch out to a more secondary-based spot if needed with Grant Galles providing depth there.

The Gaels forced nine turnovers last year, as three of them resulted in defensive touchdowns. Myer recovered two fumbles while Henning and Baker each had a score on that side of the ball.

“We have guys that just love to fly around the field,” Dillon said. “We’ve also got some players who can mix and match, which will allow us to do some different things when we're on defense.

“We’ve learned that in eight-player football, getting a turnover or two and a stop here or there is really what makes all the difference in winning and losing.”

GAELS , Continued from Page 13

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla QUARTERBACKS for St. Edmond are (left to right): Ethan Swisher and JT Laufersweiler.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

OFFENSIVE LINEMEN FOR ST. EDMOND are, front row (left to right): Max Webster and Koleman Hanson. Back Row: Quintin Jaeschke, Adam Walker, Jacob Moore and Jacob Nieland.

“I like this group, and I’m excited about what we can do.

We’ve still got to go out each week, play hard and compete, but we have all the makings of something special here.”

MATT DILLON

St. Edmond football coach

GAELS , Continued from Page 14

SPECIAL TEAMS/COACHES/SCHEDULE

Hanson handled kickoff duties as a freshman, recording 23 touchbacks on his 48 attempts. He will also get the first opportunity to replace Alex Tiernan on extra-point attempts and field goals.

Laufersweiler and Koopman both took snaps at punter, with Laufersweiler averaging over 31 yards per kick and Koopman right at 30.

Baker, Henning, Myer and Koopman each returned kickoffs a season ago, with Baker posting over 31 yards on average per attempt.

The coaching staff remains mostly intact minus the departure of Todd Baker. Mark McDermott, Mike Johnson, Lucas Daniels, Rod Riessen and Adam Swisher join Dillon. CJ Tracy and Eugene Carlson serve as middle school coaches.

“It’s a great group and we’ve really gotten to know each other and work well together now over the last few years,” Dillon said. “Todd just has too much going on with his day-to-day work to stay on, but I like staff and the effort and time they put in.”

The schedule will see the Gaels open with a familiar face in Bishop Garrigan before tackling a new district slate. The other non-district game for St. Edmond will be at GTRA.

“I’m happy to see us get a team like Garrigan in Week 1,” Dillon said. “It’s a fun, competitive rivalry with a great program and coach in Marty Wadle.

“And having GTRA again will be nice since we were in the same district the past two seasons.”

Messenger photos by Britt Kudla KICKERS FOR ST. EDMOND (left to right): JT Laufersweiler and Koleman Hanson.

JT LAUFERSWEILER (left photo) scrambles for extra yards during a St. Edmond game last season.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

WIDE RECEIVERS FOR ST. EDMOND are, front row (left to right): Grant Galles and Griffin Laufersweiler. Back Row: Evan Christiansen, Jakob Koopman, Leo, Ehn and Dominic McClain.

NEW DISTRICT FOR GAELS

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

The St. Edmond football team can no longer be considered rookies when it comes to the eight-player game.

However, they will be very green in terms of knowledge of their new District 9 rivals.

The Gaels, in their third season of eightplayer football, will compete alongside Audubon, Baxter, Collins-Maxwell, ColoNesco, Coon Rapids-Bayard and GliddenRalston.

Audubon, Baxter and Colo-Nesco were all playoff qualifiers, with all three losing in the opening round.

“It’s exciting,” SEHS head coach Matt Dillon said. “The start of a new season is always exciting, but definitely comes with plenty of nerves. Add in the fact that we are the newcomers to the district, and that makes it a little more interesting.”

Baxter was a district runner-up to Montezuma, finishing 7-2 overall. ColoNesco and Collins-Maxwell tied for third in District 4, and Audubon was third in District 10.

Glidden-Ralston finished fifth in a district that included eventual state champion Remsen St. Mary’s and Newell-Fonda, who reached the final four.

“I really think this is a tough, talented district with some great teams,” Dillon said. “We’re going to have to really focus in each week to prepare for our opponent. We’ll never take anybody for granted and always come prepared.”

“One nice thing is that we played Coon Rapids-Bayard and Audubon in JV games last year because we were scrambling to find games.”

St. Edmond returns senior quarterback JT Laufersweiler along with Klay Baker, Dominic McClain, Adam Walker and Kinnick Henning. Laufersweiler had over 1,400 yards passing and led the team with 521 yards rushing and 13 TDs.

Baker ran for 343 and five scores, McClain caught 11 passes for 191 and three TDs, Walker had four sacks and Henning recorded 36.5 tackles.

“I just really like this group overall,” Dillon said. “We don’t have a lot of depth, but we have a solid, solid team.”

Audubon had its first losing season

since 2011 last year, as the Wheelers had won 30 games the previous three seasons combined. Junior Aaron Olsen returns to lead the offense after running for 1,159 yards and throwing for another 641.

Olsen completed 60 percent of his passes with eight TDs in the air, adding 23 rushing touchdowns. Senior Evan Alt had 382 yards rushing and seven scores, while sophomore Carson Wessel added 106 and one.

Edward Miller is the leading returning receiver after catching 13 passes for 230 yards with a team-high six TDs. Alt also had seven receptions out of the backfield.

On defense, Alt, Ezekiel Konkler and Izik Sorensen are the top returning tacklers.

Back-to-back seven-win campaigns has Baxter riding high entering the fall. Junior Perrin Sulzle has replaced all-stater Cody Damman under center after throwing for 263 yards and eight touchdowns.

Damman was also the leading rusher, but Evan Mahoney and Cade Robinson return after racking up over 600 yards and six TDs. Senior Treyton Travis had 438 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns, while Mahoney had 307

returning tacklers off a defense that forced 24 turnovers.

Since splitting from Baxter, CollinsMaxwell had just one winning season in six years, claiming three victories each of the past two seasons. Sophomore Cooper Wierson split time last year and should be the top quarterback now after racking up over 500 yards of offense and 12 touchdowns.

after

in the air and four scores.

Cainan Travis and Samson are the leading

Leading rusher Josef Dvorak returns

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

RUNNING BACKS FOR ST. EDMOND are, front row (left to right): Sam Myer and Kinnick Henning. Back Row: Aaron Hindt, Klay Baker, Dallas Grove and Ty Mericle.

scoring 11 touchdowns and averaging five yards per carry with 202 yards receiving and two more scores. He was also a key on defense for the Spartans, recording 71 tackles.

Wierson also returned an interception for a score and had a punt return that resulted in another touchdown.

Colo-Nesco looks to snap a string of five consecutive losing seasons as leading rusher Brekin Clatt returns. Clatt, who earned all-state honors, had 980 yards and 11 scores on the ground, while catching 21 passes for 306 and four TDs.

Lucas Frohwein, Lucas Daggett and Mark Bower all return with experience from the skill positions on offense. Trenton Beard had 81.5 tackles and Clatt 75.5 to anchor the defense.

Coon Rapids-Bayard will hope an experienced quarterback leads them to positive results. Wyatt Oswald threw for almost 600 yards with seven TDs as a sophomore, while also rushing for 360 and six.

Omarion Floyd, Kolby Culbertson and Cal Heydon will be his top targets to work with on offense, while Culbertson, Oswald, Heydon, Floyd and Tyler Mohr pace the defensive attack.

For Glidden-Ralston, last year was one used to prepare several young prospects. Colby Wallace saw time at quarterback as just a 10th-grader. Emmett Snyder, now a senior, and sophomore Alex Daniel ran for almost 500 yards, while Chandler Grossman and Mark Lensch were key targets out wide.

AUDUBON

Top returning players: Aaron Olsen, jr.; Evan Alt, sr.; Carson Wessel, soph.; Colin Hartl, jr.; Edward Miller, sr.; Aaron Obrecht, jr.; Ezekiel Konkler, sr.; Izik Sorensen, soph.

2022 record: 4-6 overall, 4-2 in district.

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

Aug. 25

WHEELER SCHEDULE

Anita-CAM

Sept. 1 at Colo-Nesco

Sept. 8 ................................................... at Exira-EHK

Sept. 15 ................................................. St. Edmond

Sept. 22 ................................at Coon Rapids-Bayard

Sept. 29

Glidden-Ralston

Oct. 6 at Collins-Maxwell

Oct. 13 Baxter

BAXTER

Top returning players: Perrin Sulzle, jr.; Evan Mahoney, sr.; Cade Robinson, jr.; Treyton Travis, sr.; Cainan Travis, jr.; Cody Samson, sr.

2022 record: 7-2 overall, 4-1 in district.

Coach: Robert Luther is the head coach for the Bolts.

BOLT SCHEDULE

Sept. 1 Coon Rapids-Bayard

Sept. 8 at St. Edmond

Sept. 15 Glidden-Ralston

Sept. 22 at Colo-Nesco

Sept. 29 ........................................... Collins-Maxwell

Oct. 6 ..................................................... Montezuma

Oct. 13 .................................................. at Audubon

COLLINS-MAXWELL

Top returning players: Cooper Wierson, soph.; Austin Boege, soph.; Josef Dvorak, jr.; Nate Smith, jr.; Reed Oswalt, soph.; Dillion Howerton, soph.

2022 record: 3-5 overall, 2-2 in district.

Coach: Greg Davis is in charge of the Spartan football team.

SPARTAN SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 at GMG

Sept. 1 St. Edmond

Sept. 8 at Coon Rapids-Bayard

Sept. 15 ................................................. Colo-Nesco

Sept. 22 ....................................... at Glidden-Ralston

Sept. 29 at Baxter

Oct. 6 Audubon

Oct. 13 East Union

COLO-NESCO

Top returning players: Breckin Clatt, jr.; Mark Bower, jr.; Lucas Daggett, jr.; Ben Ryan, sr.; Hunter Hardin, jr.

2022 record: 4-5 overall, 3-2 in district.

Coach: David Greenfield serves as head coach for the Royals.

ROYAL SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 Murray

Sept. 1 Audubon

Sept. 8 at Glidden-Ralston

Sept. 15 at Collins-Maxwell

Sept. 22 .......................................................... Baxter

Sept. 29 ......................................... at English Valleys

Oct. 6 ..................................................... St. Edmond

Oct. 13 at Coon Rapids-Bayard

COON RAPIDS-BAYARD

Top returning players: Wyatt Oswald, jr.; Cal Heydon, soph.; Omarion Floyd, sr.; Kolby Culbertson, sr.; Trey Rosenbeck, sr.; Ethan Bauer, soph.; Tyler Mohr, jr.

2022 record: 3-5 overall, 3-4 in district.

Coach: Directing the Crusaders will be Chris Mohr.

CRUSADER SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 Turkey Valley

Sept. 1 at Baxter

Sept. 8 Collins-Maxwell

Sept. 15 at Anita-CAM

Sept. 22 ..................................................... Audubon

Sept. 29 ..............................................at St. Edmond

Oct. 6 ........................................... at Glidden-Ralston

Oct. 13 Colo-Nesco

GLIDDEN-RALSTON

Top returning players: Colby Wallace, jr.; Lucas Christian, jr.; Alex Daniel, soph.; Emmett Snyder, sr.; Mark Lensch, sr.; Chandler Grossman, sr.; Waylon Hein, jr.

2022 record: 3-5 overall, 2-4 in district.

Coach: Kreg Lensch is head coach.

WILDCAT SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 at Woodbine

Sept. 1 ...................................................... Ar-We-Va

Sept. 8 ................................................... Colo-Nesco

Sept. 15 ...................................................... at Baxter

Sept. 22 Collins-Maxwell

Sept. 29 at Audubon

Oct. 6 Coon Rapids-Bayard

Oct. 13 at St. Edmond

8-PLAYER-9 , Continued from Page 12

EIGHT-PLAYER DISTRICT 9

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

LINEBACKERS FOR ST. EDMOND are, front row (left to right): Aaron Hindt, Sam Myer, Kinnick Hinning and Ty Mericle. Back Row: Dallas Grove, Dominic McClain, Klay Baker and Ethan Swisher.

2023 ST EDMOND GAELS CHEERLEADERS

Front row left to right: Sophia Schlienz, Cecilia Galvan, Ella Passow, Kaili Henning, Sophia Dutcher, Andee Barwin, Alex Leiting, Maddy Cripe

Back row: Abby Tofilon, Ava Underberg, Maya, Neverman, Michaela Leiting, Anna Lursen, Cambree Lunn, Abby Lawler, Ella Mundie, Ellie Knox

COUGARS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR MANSON NORTHWEST

COUGARS LOOK FOR A COMPETITIVE EDGE

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer COUGARS

Zach Noffsinger believes that his second year leading the Manson Northwest Webster football team is positioned to be a more competitive one.

A dozen letterwinners are back, with 10 of them returning after starting last season for the Cougars, who went 1-7 overall.

“We lost a large senior class and we have an entirely new starting offensive line this year,” Noffsinger said. “But we return most of our skill positions and we have a lot of younger guys from last year who have made a big jump.”

Seniors Tateum Hanson, Caydin Anderson, Ethon Morrow and Matt Siefken are joined by a large group of juniors and a handful of sophomores to help Noffsinger build his program.

One of those juniors is quarterback Logan Moline, who threw for almost 650 yards and seven touchdowns last year. He also showed his athleticism with

MANSON NORTHWEST WEBSTER

AT A GLANCE

Returning letterwinners (12): Tateum Hanson, sr.; Caydin Anderson, sr.; Ethon Morrow, sr.; Matt Siefken, sr.; Logan Moline, jr.; Cooper Harman, jr.; Matt Condon, jr.; Kamden Birkey, jr.; Grant Pohlman, jr.; Mason Anderson, soph.; Alex Nimke, jr.; Carter Van Waes, soph.

Top prospects: Grayson Klocko, soph.; Sean Fitzgerald, jr.; Broc Patzner, jr.; Jackson McGuire, fr.; Jager Wolfe, fr. 2022 record: 1-7 overall, 1-3 in district.

Coach: Zach Noffsinger begins his second

season at the helm with the Cougars after previously serving as a head coach in South Dakota.

COUGAR

SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 ............................... Southeast Valley

Sept. 1 ............................................ at Ogden

Sept. 8 MVAOCOU

Sept. 15 at Pocahontas Area

Sept. 22 ..................................... Eagle Grove

Sept. 29 ................................ at Sioux Central

Oct. 6 East Sac County

Oct. 13 at Emmetsburg

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

WEBSTER are, front row (left to right): Kamden Birkey, Tateum Hanson, Carter Van Waes, Ethon Morrow and Mason Anderson. Back Row: Alex Nimke, Matthew Siefken, Grant Pohlman, Cooper Hartman, Matthew Condon, Caydin Anderson and Logan Moline.

Zach Noffsinger See COUGARS, Page 45

RETURNING

JAGUARS RELYING ON THEIR RETURNEES

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer JAGUARS AT

Coming off the first state championship in program history with a senior class that left their mark, it was expected that Southeast Valley would see some tougher results. But with a roster loaded with newcomers, the Jaguars were able to still win three games and position themselves for better results this year with 10 returning letterwinners.

Both Dalton Crouse and Cale VanSickle saw time at quarterback and are back. VanSickle threw six touchdowns without an interception

on 45 attempts with 120 yards rushing, while Crouse threw for 473 yards and ran for 230.

Brady Hanson is the leading returning rusher after carrying the ball 50 times for 199 yards with three scores. Andrew Miller and Jace Hanson each had receptions and will be counted on to replace the top two targets.

“We have some nice returning players on both sides of the ball to build around,” Southeast Valley head coach Mike Swieter

SOUTHEAST VALLEY

Returning letterwinners (10): Dalton Crouse, sr.; Cale VanSickle, jr.; Jace Hanson, sr.; Drew Temple, soph.; Andrew Miller, sr.; Tyler Moreland, sr.; Brady Hanson, jr.; Nathan Graves, jr.; Ryan Wicklein, jr.; Ross Larson, sr. 2022 record: 3-5 overall.

Coach: Mike Swieter has won 136 games over 21 seasons, with the last eight coming as leader of the Jaguars. SV won the state title in 2021.

A GLANCE

JAGUAR SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 ..................................... at Manson NW

Sept. 1 Eagle Grove

Sept. 8 ..........................Clarion-Goldfield/Dows

Sept. 15 at Des Moines Christian

Sept. 22 Roland-Story

Sept. 29 ................................................... Saydel

Oct. 6 at Greene County

Oct. 13 ................................ at Carroll Kuemper

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

LETTERWINNERS FOR SOUTHEAST VALLEY are, front row (left to right): Ross Larson, Brady Hanson, Tyler Moreland, Drew Temple and Jace Nelson. Back Row: Dalton Crouse, Isaiah Ihrig, Jace Hanson, Ryan Wicklein, Cale VanSickle, Andrew Miller and Nathan Graves.

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS

BEAT GOES ON FOR TOUGH LYNX

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Following a slow start to the 2022 campaign, the Webster City football team hit their stride, placing second in the district to advance to another postseason.

This year, as the program makes the move into Class 3A, veteran head coach Bob Howard and the Lynx look to continue on the tradition they have built. Webster City has produced five wins every year since 2008.

All-state senior Jaxon Cherry leads the charge after finishing among the top backs in the state with 1,804 yards and 31 rushing touchdowns. Cherry, who also had 108 yards and a score with his hands, averaged over eight yards per carry.

“Jaxon led Class 4A in rushing last year and is bigger and faster this season,” Howard said. “Overall, we have more size than in the past three years, good speed and good team strength.

“Our defensive interior needs to be replaced, along with depth so we have quality subs.”

But quarterback Ty McKinney and secondleading rusher CJ Hisler have moved on, meaning there will be a bigger opportunity for the likes of Cael Nixon and Jayden Weinzetl.

Leading receiver Keegan Hisler returns

Photo by Patrick Coons

FOR WEBSTER CITY are, front row (left to right): Jaxon Cherry, Shannon Sinclair, Landon Griffin, Keegan Hisler, Aiden Moothart, Josh Stansfield, Jesse Crutcher, Brandon Lahr, Sam Youngdale, Camden Schultz, Trevyn Lyons and Luckie Sengphong. Back Row: Jayden Weinzetl, Luke Estlund, Cael Nixon, Carson Bertran, Beau Nohrenberg, Gabe Ruby and Cole Nohrenberg.

WEBSTER CITY’S CAEL NIXON makes a tackle last season for the Lynx against Boone.

after accumulating 215 yards with two scores in 2022.

Protecting whoever takes over for McKinney and clearing holes for Cherry and company will be returning starters Josh Stansfield, Sam Youngdale, Landon Griffin and Brandon Lahr, with newcomers such as Shannon Sinclaire, Cole Nohrenberg and Beau Nohrenberg filling the other position and providing depth.

On the defensive side of the ball, Cherry had 61 tackles with 8.5 for loss and 4.5 sacks, Luke Estlund had 27 tackles, Trevyn Lyons recorded 22 solo stops and Hisler had 7.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks.

“We have very good depth at running back and our linebackers and secondary will be strong,” Howard said. “In 2022, we had to replace seven across the offensive front, so having four returning and a few others is a strength.”

Like last year, it will not be easy for the Lynx, as they face Fort Dodge, Spencer, North Polk and West Delaware before getting into district play with North Central Conference rivals Algona, Humboldt, Clear Lake and Hampton-Dumont/CAL.

WEBSTER CITY

LYNX AT A GLANCE

WEBSTER CITY

Returning letterwinners (11): Josh Stansfield, sr.; Sam Youngdale, sr.; Landon Griffin, sr.; Brandon Lahr, sr.; Keegan Hisler, sr.; Trevyn Lyons, sr.; Jesse Crutcher, sr.; Jaxon Cherry, sr.; Luke Estlund, jr.; Cael Nixon, jr.; Jayden Weinzetl, jr.

Top prospects: Briar Klaver, sr.; Shannon Sinclair, sr.; Cole Nohrenberg, soph.; Beau Nohrenberg, soph.; Camden Schultz, sr.; Aiden Hrnicke, soph.; Jaxon Griffith, soph.; Josh Griep, sr.; Luckie Sengphong, sr.; Eli Estlund, soph.

2022 record: 6-4 overall, 5-1 in district.

Coach: Bob Howard enters his 17th season with the Lynx, where he has gone 113-51 overall. During his 47-year coaching career that includes stops with Sigourney-Keota and Scranton, Howard is 364-110.

LYNX SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 Fort Dodge

Sept. 1 .......................................................................... at Spencer

Sept. 8 .......................................................................... North Polk

Sept. 15 at West Delaware

Sept. 22 ........................................................................ Clear Lake

Sept. 29 at Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Oct. 6 ...................................................................... at Charles City

Oct. 13 Algona

Oct. 20 Humboldt

Bob Howard

Daily Freeman-Journal file photo

WEBSTER CITY’S JAXON CHERRY runs the ball last season for the Lynx.

Friday, Aug. 25

Fort Dodge at Webster City

Denison-Schleswig at Council Bluffs TJ

Storm Lake at Saydel

LeMars at Sergeant Bluff-Luton

Spencer at Humboldt

Council Bluffs AL at Sioux City West

Friday, Sept. 1

Mason City at Fort Dodge

Harlan at Denison-Schleswig

Boone at Storm Lake

Sioux City North at LeMars

Webster City at Spencer

Sioux City West at South Sioux City

Friday, Sept. 8

Fort Dodge at Dallas Center-Grimes

Carroll at Denison-Schleswig

Storm Lake at Council Bluffs TJ

LeMars at Boyden-Hull/Rock Valley

Spencer at Spirit Lake

Sioux City West at Sergeant Bluff-Luton

Thursday, Sept. 14

Sioux City Heelan at Sioux City West

Friday, Sept. 15

Waterloo East at Fort Dodge

Denison-Schleswig at Glenwood

Perry at Storm Lake

MOC-Floyd Valley at LeMars

Sioux Center at Spencer

Thursday, Sept. 21

Storm Lake at Sioux City West

Friday, Sept. 22

Denison-Schleswig at Fort Dodge

LeMars at Spencer

Friday, Sept. 29

Fort Dodge at Storm Lake

Spencer at Denison-Schleswig

Sioux City West at LeMars

Friday, Oct. 6

LeMars at Fort Dodge

Storm Lake at Denison-Schleswig

Spencer at Sioux City West

Friday, Oct. 13

Fort Dodge at Sioux City West

Denison-Schleswig at LeMars

Storm Lake at Spencer

Friday, Oct. 20

Spencer at Fort Dodge

Sioux City West at Denison-Schleswig

LeMars at Storm Lake

AREA PREP SCHEDULES

Friday, Aug. 25

Spirit Lake at Algona

Spencer at Humboldt

Fort Dodge at Webster City

Charles City at Oelwein

Clear Lake at Forest City

Hampton-Dumont/CAL at Iowa FallsAlden

Friday, Sept. 1

Forest City at Algona

Humboldt at Ballard

Webster City at Spencer

South Tama County at Charles City

New Hampton at Clear Lake

Hampton-Dumont/CAL at ClarionGoldfield/Dows

Friday, Sept. 8

Algona at Estherville-LC

Van Meter at Humboldt

North Polk at Webster City

Charles City at Waterloo East

Clear Lake at Iowa Falls-Alden

West Marshall at Hampton-Dumont/ CAL

Friday, Sept. 15

Algona at Boyden-Hull/Rock Valley

Humboldt at North Polk

Webster City at West Delaware

Mason City at Charles City

Waverly-Shell Rock at Clear Lake Nevada at Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Friday, Sept. 22

Charles City at Algona

Hampton-Dumont/CAL at Humboldt

Clear Lake at Webster City

Friday, Sept. 29

Humboldt at Charles City

Algona at Clear Lake

Webster City at Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Friday, Oct. 6

Webster City at Charles City

Humboldt at Algona

Hampton-Dumont/CAL at Clear Lake

Friday, Oct. 13

Algona at Webster City

Clear Lake at Humboldt

Charles City at Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Friday, Oct. 20

Hampton-Dumont/CAL at Algona

Humboldt at Webster City

Clear Lake at Charles City

Thursday, Aug. 24

Clarion-Goldfield/Dows at Eagle Grove

Friday, Aug. 25

Garner-Hayfield/Ventura at West Hancock

Estherville-LC at OABCIG

Spirit Lake at Algona

Clear Lake at Forest City

Okoboji at North Union

Friday, Sept. 1

Hampton-Dumont/CAL at ClarionGoldfield/Dows

Garner-Hayfield/Ventura at Osage

Emmetsburg at Estherville-LC

Sioux Center at Spirit Lake

Forest City at Algona

Pocahontas Area at Okoboji

Friday, Sept. 8

Clarion-Goldfield/Dows at Southeast

Valley

Central Springs at Garner-Hayfield/

Ventura

Algona at Estherville-LC

Spencer at Spirit Lake

Eagle Grove at Forest City

Okoboji at MOC-Floyd Valley

Friday, Sept. 15

Garner-Hayfield/Ventura at ClarionGoldfield/Dows

Estherville-LC at Okoboji

Spirit Lake at Forest City

Friday, Sept. 22

Clarion-Goldfield/Dows at Estherville-LC

Forest City at Garner-Hayfield/Ventura

Okoboji at Spirit Lake

Friday, Sept. 29

Forest City at Clarion-Goldfield/Dows

Okoboji at Garner-Hayfield/Ventura

Spirit Lake at Estherville-LC

Friday, Oct. 6

Clarion-Goldfield/Dows at Okoboji

Garner-Hayfield/Ventura at Spirit Lake

Estherville-LC at Forest City

Friday, Oct. 13

Spirit Lake at Clarion-Goldfield/Dows

Estherville-LC at Garner-Hayfield/

Ventura

Forest City at Okoboji

Friday, Aug. 25

Southeast Valley at Manson Northwest

Webster

Greene County at Carroll

Roland-Story at South Tama County

Carroll Kuemper at Sioux City Heelan

Pella Christian at Des Moines Christian

Storm Lake at Saydel

Friday, Sept. 1

Eagle Grove at Manson Northwest

Webster

Perry at Greene County

Roland-Story at Nevada

Underwood at Carroll Kuemper

Des Moines Christian at Van Meter

Saydel at East Marshall

Friday, Sept. 8

Clarion-Goldfield/Dows at Southeast

Valley

Perry at Greene County

South Hamilton at Roland-Story

AHSTW at Carroll Kuemper

Des Moines Christian at Clarke

Saydel at Colfax-Mingo

Friday, Sept. 15

Southeast Valley at Des Moines

Christian

Greene County at Saydel

Carroll Kuemper at Roland-Story

Friday, Sept. 22

Roland-Story at Southeast Valley

Carroll Kuemper at Greene County

Des Moines Christian at Saydel

Friday, Sept. 29

Saydel at Southeast Valley

Greene County at Roland-Story

Des Moines Christian at Carroll

Kuemper

Thursday, Aug. 24

Clarion-Goldfield/Dows at Eagle Grove

Friday, Aug. 25

Southeast Valley at MW Webster

South Central Calhoun at Pocahontas Area

East Sac County at IKM-Manning

Emmetsburg at Central Lyon/G-LR

South O’Brien at Sioux Central

Friday, Sept. 1

Manson Northwest Webster at Ogden

Pocahontas Area at Okoboji

Eagle Grove at Southeast Valley

OABCIG at East Sac County

Emmetsburg at Estherville-LC

Cherokee at Sioux Central

Friday, Sept. 8

MVAOCOU at Manson Northwest Webster

Hull Western Christian at Pocahontas Area

Eagle Grove at Forest City

East Sac County at Missouri Valley

Sheldon at Emmetsburg

Sioux Central at Lawton-Bronson

Friday, Sept. 15

Manson Northwest Webster at Pocahontas Area

Sioux Central at Eagle Grove

East Sac County at Emmetsburg

Friday, Sept. 22

Eagle Grove at Manson Northwest Webster

Pocahontas Area at East Sac County

Emmetsburg at Sioux Central

Friday, Sept. 29

Manson Northwest Webster at Sioux Central

Pocahontas Area at Emmetsburg

Eagle Grove at East Sac County

Friday, Oct. 6

Southeast Valley at Greene County

Roland-Story at Des Moines Christian

Carroll Kuemper at Saydel

Friday, Oct. 13

Southeast Valley at Carroll Kuemper

Greene County at Des Moines

Christian

Saydel at Roland-Story

Friday, Oct. 6

East Sac County at Manson Northwest Webster

Sioux Central at Pocahontas Area

Emmetsburg at Eagle Grove

Friday, Oct. 13

Manson NW Webster at Emmetsburg

Pocahontas Area at Eagle Grove

Sioux Central at East Sac County

4A DISTRICT 1 3A DISTRICT 2 1A DISTRICT 2 2A DISTRICT 2 2A DISTRICT 8

Friday, Aug. 25

Okoboji at North Union

Belmond-Klemme at North Butler

Osage at Saint Ansgar

Mason City Newman at Central Springs

Garner-Hayfield/Ventura at West Hancock

West Fort at Clayton Ridge

Lake Mills at AGWSR

Friday, Sept. 1

Saint Ansgar at North Union

West Hancock at Belmond-Klemme

Mason City Newman at West Fork

Central Springs at Lake Mills

Friday, Sept. 8

North Union at Belmond-Klemme

West Hancock at Saint Ansgar

Lake Mills at Mason City Newman

North Butler at West Fork

Friday, Sept. 15

North Union at West Hancock

Belmond-Klemme at Saint Ansgar

South Winneshiek at Mason City Newman

West Fork at Lake Mills

Friday, Sept. 22

Lake Mills at North Union

Mason City Newman at BelmondKlemme

Saint Ansgar at Nashua-Plainfield

West Hancock at West Fork

Friday, Sept. 29

West Fork at North Union

Belmond-Klemme at Lake Mills

Saint Ansgar at Mason City Newman

West Hancock at South Central Calhoun

Friday, Oct. 6

North Union at Mason City Newman

AGWSR at Belmond-Klemme

West Fork at Saint Angar

Lake Mills at West Hancock

Friday, Oct. 13

North Union at Sibley-Ocheyedan

Belmond-Klemme at West Fork

Saint Ansgar at Lake Mills

Mason City Newman at West Hancock

AREA PREP SCHEDULES

Friday, Aug. 25

South Central Calhoun at Pocahontas Area

Red Oak at Southwest Valley

Central Decatur at Earlham

Panorama at West Central Valley

Ogden at ACGC

East Sac County at IKM-Manning

Riverside, Oakland at West Monona

Friday, Sept. 1

South Central Calhoun at Southwest Valley

ACGC at Earlham

IKM-Manning at Panorama

AHSTW at Riverside, Oakland

Friday, Sept. 8

Riverside, Oakland at South Central Calhoun

Southwest Valley at Grand View Christian

Earlham at IKM-Manning

Panorama at ACGC

Friday, Sept. 15

ACGC at South Central Calhoun

Southwest Valley at Earlham Wayne at Panorama

IKM-Manning at Riverside, Oakland

Friday, Sept. 22

South Central Calhoun at IKMManning

Panorama at Southwest Valley

Earlham at Madrid

Riverside, Oakland at ACGC

Friday, Sept. 29

West Hancock at South Central Calhoun

Southwest Valley at Riverside, Oakland

Earlham at Panorama

IKM-Manning at ACGC

Friday, Oct. 6

South Central Calhoun at Panorama

Southwest Valley at IKM-Manning

Riverside, Oakland at Earlham

ACGC at Mount Ayr

Friday, Oct. 13

Earlham at South Central Calhoun

ACGC at Southwest Valley

Panorama at Riverside, Oakland

IKM-Manning at Logan-Magnolia

Friday, Aug. 25

West Bend-Mallard at Newell-Fonda

Harris-Lake Park at Remsen St. Mary’s

Griswold at Boyer Valley

GTRA at Siouxland Christian

Glidden-Ralston at Woodbine

East Mills at West Harrison

Exira-EHK at Ar-We-Va

Friday, Sept. 1

Newell-Fonda at West Harrison

Remsen St. Mary’s at Siouxland

Christian

Boyer Valley at Woodbine

Ar-We-Va at Glidden-Ralston

Friday, Sept. 8

Woodbine at Newell-Fonda

Remsen St. Mary’s at West BendMallard

West Harrison at Boyer Valley

Siouxland Christian at Ar-We-Va

Friday, Sept. 15

Newell-Fonda at Harris-Lake Park

Boyer Valley at Remsen St. Mary’s

Siouxland Christian at Woodbine

Ar-We-Va at West Harrison

Friday, Sept. 22

Remsen St. Mary’s at Newell-Fonda

Boyer Valley at Sidney

West Harrison at Siouxland Christian

Woodbine at Ar-We-Va

Friday, Sept. 29

Newell-Fonda at Boyer Valley

Ar-We-Va at Remsen St. Mary’s

Siouxland Christian at Bishop Garrigan

Woodbine at West Harrison

Friday, Oct. 6

Newell-Fonda at Ar-We-Va

Remsen St. Mary’s at Woodbine

Boyer Valley at Siouxland Christian

West Harrison at Griswold

Friday, Oct. 13

Siouxland Christian at Newell-Fonda

West Harrison at Remsen St. Mary’s

Ar-We-Va at Boyer Valley

Woodbine at East Mills

Friday, Aug. 25

West Bend-Mallard at Newell-Fonda

Bishop Garrigan at St. Edmond

GTRA at Siouxland Christian

Harris-Lake Park at Remsen St. Mary’s

Northwood-Kensett at Janesville

Rockford at Riceville

North Iowa at Clarksville

Friday, Sept. 1

Bishop Garrigan at West Bend-Mallard

Northwood-Kensett at GTRA

Rockford at Harris-Lake Park

Riceville at North Iowa

Friday, Sept. 8

Remsen St. Mary’s at West BendMallard

North Iowa at Bishop Garrigan

GTRA at Rockford

Harris-LP at Northwood-Kensett

Friday, Sept. 15

West Bend-Mallard at GTRA

Northwood-Kensett at Bishop Garrigan

Newell-Fonda at Harris-Lake Park

Rockford at North Iowa

Friday, Sept. 22

Harris-LP at West Bend-Mallard

Bishop Garrigan at Rockford

St. Edmond at GTRA

North Iowa at Northwood-Kensett

Friday, Sept. 29

West Bend-Mallard at North Iowa

Siouxland Christian at Bishop Garrigan

GTRA at Harris-Lake Park

Rockford at Northwood-Kensett

Friday, Oct. 6

Northwood-Kensett at West BendMallard

Bishop Garrigan at GTRA

North Iowa at Harris-Lake Park

Janesville at Rockford

Friday, Oct. 13

West Bend-Mallard at Rockford

Harris-Lake Park at Bishop Garrigan

GTRA at North Iowa

Dunkerton at Northwood-Kensett

Friday, Aug. 25

Bishop Garrigan at St. Edmond

CAM at Audubon

Turkey Valley at Coon Rapids-Bayard

Murray at Colo-Nesco

Collins-Maxwell at GMG

Glidden-Ralston at Woodbine

Friday, Sept. 1

St. Edmond at Collins-Maxwell

Audubon at Colo-Nesco

Coon Rapids-Bayard at Baxter

Ar-We-Va at Glidden-Ralston

Friday, Sept. 8

Baxter at St. Edmond

Audubon at Exira-EHK

Collins-Maxwell at Coon RapidsBayard

Colo-Nesco at Glidden-Ralston

Friday, Sept. 15

St. Edmond at Audubon

Coon Rapids-Bayard at CAM

Colo-Nesco at Collins-Maxwell

Glidden-Ralston at Baxter

Friday, Sept. 22

St. Edmond at GTRA

Audubon at Coon Rapids-Bayard

Baxter at Colo-Nesco

Collins-Maxwell at Glidden-Ralston

Friday, Sept. 29

Coon Rapids-Bayard at St. Edmond

Glidden-Ralston at Audubon

Colo-Nesco at English Valleys

Collins-Maxwell at Baxter

Friday, Oct. 6

St. Edmond at Colo-Nesco

Audubon at Collins-Maxwell

Coon Rapids-Bayard at GliddenRalston

Montezuma at Baxter

Friday, Oct. 13

Glidden-Ralston at St. Edmond

Baxter at Audubon

Colo-Nesco at Coon Rapids-Bayard

East Union at Collins-Maxwell

A DISTRICT 2 A DISTRICT 7

8-MAN-1

8-MAN-2

8-MAN-9

WILDCATS LOOK FOR AN ENCORE

Derrick Elman has quickly turned Humboldt into perennial a Class 3A contender, reaching back-to-back semifinals while winning 21 of 24 games over the past two seasons.

This year, the Wildcats will look to bridge the gap of graduating a talented senior class and losing all-state all-state running back Lance Coon to a preseason injury.

Humboldt was 10-2 a year ago before falling to Mount Vernon inside the UNIDome.

“This year’s team has been working hard in the offseason,” Elman said. “We return some of our top skill players, but lose the majority of our offensive and defensive lines.

“Our goals are to compete for a district title. In order for this to happen, we have to use the non-district games to get kids the experience they need for the district slate.”

Coon racked up 1,566 yards and 21 touchdowns on 219 carries as a junior. His return date is unknown after he suffered a

See WILDCATS, Page 37

WILDCATS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR HUMBOLDT are, front row (left

Wagoneer

2023 RAM 1500 Laramie

Photo by Phil Monson, The Humboldt Independent

to right): Mason Van Pelt, Gaige Allen, Corey Dettmann and Coen Matson. Middle Row: Peyton Pedersen, Keegan Groat, Lance Coon, Grant Dielemann and Cael Newell. Back Row: Landon Halverson, Mason Brown, Jackson Dodd and Keegan Rasmussen. Not pictured: Parker Sleiter.

Derrick Elman

DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

INDIANS BUILD MOMENTUM

DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

The Pocahontas Area football team has won at least four games each of the past five seasons, including matching 4-4 marks each of the last two years.

With 12 letterwinners and nine starters back, head coach Mike Ehn is hoping to keep that streak going.

Lucas Kopriva took over under center a year ago, throwing for almost 400 yards while rushing for another 229. He has Ryan Sommerlot joining him once again in the backfield, while Blake Roberts and Gabe Ehn also return as key receivers.

Ethan Behrens, Hunter Grothaus and Nick Erickson form a solid nuclus in the trenches with Hunter Trewyn and Trevor Stuhrenberg joining them.

“We have some experience coming back and we have a good senior class,” Ehn said. “We can compete each week, but we need to stay healthy to do that.”

Sommerlot was all over the field on defense as a junior, recording almost 60 tackles while Roberts, Ehn, Behrens and Ryan Panbecker gained valuable experience.

Ehn led the team with three sacks as a sophomore while Behrens added

INDIANS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR POCAHONTAS AREA are, front row (left to right): Ryan Sommerlot, Ethan Behrens, Trevor Sturhenberg, Hunter Grothaus and Carson Bunda. Back Row: Will Burke, Hunter Trewyn, Nick Erickson, Gabe Ehn, Lucas Kopriva, Ryan Panbecker, Blake Roberts and Eli Stuchlik.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Mike Ehn

See INDIANS, Page 31

INDIANS AT A GLANCE

POCAHONTAS AREA

Returning letterwinners (12): Lucas Kopriva, sr.; Ethan Behrens, sr.; Blake Roberts, sr.; Ryan Sommerlot, sr.; Eli Stuchlik, sr.; Ryan Panbecker, sr.; Hunter Grothaus, sr.; Nick Erickson, sr.; Gabe Ehn, jr.; Carson Bunda, jr.; Hunter Trewyn, jr.; Trevor Stuhrenberg, jr.

Top prospects: Carter Froch, sr.; Luke Gerdes, sr.; Dominic Aljets, sr.

2022 record: 4-4 overall, 1-3 in district.

Coach: Mike Ehn enters his 10th season

POCAHONTAS AREA

as head coach for the Indians and is in his 22nd season overall.

INDIAN SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 ..................South Central Calhoun

Sept. 1 ...................................... at Okoboji

Sept. 8 ................... Hull Western Christian

Sept. 15 ................................ Manson NW

Sept. 22 at East Sac County

Sept. 29 at Emmetsburg

Oct. 6 Sioux Central

Oct. 13 at Eagle Grove

INDIANS , Continued from Page 30

one. Pocahontas Area picked off 10 passes and recovered three fumbles, with seven of those 13 turnovers being recovered by players who return.

“Our nine returning starters will lead us along with the rest of the senior class,” Ehn said. “We need to develop depth at all positions and need to stay healthy to reach our goals.”

Check

File photo

POCAHONTAS AREA’S RYAN PANBECKER helps teammate Alex Welander tackle South Central Calhoun returnee Zach Trott last season.

TITANS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN are, front row (left to right): Mike Trott, Brock Nattress, Zach Trott, Naylan Gulbranson, Caleb Juhl, Kolin Folsom and Collin Kennebeck. Middle Row: Wyatt Mernka, Jace Pedersen, Joshua Billmeier, Gabe King, Brendan Stone, Noah Hendricks and Camden Blair. Back Row: Charlie Nattress, Keegan Soard, Cole Higgins, Gavin Batta, Zakiah

TITANS MAKE THE MOVE TO CLASS A

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

For the first time since they merged to form South Central Calhoun out of Southern Cal and Rockwell City-Lytton, the Titans will be competing in Class A.

And they make the move looking to make some serious noise after finishing with a losing record for the first time since 2012.

The Titans will lean on several returning starters and 21 letterwinners in all, including quarterback Gavin Batta, top rusher Brock Nattress and leading receiver Keegan Soard, from a 4-5 campaign.

“Dropping down a class

and entering a new district brings about new challenges, but we’re looking forward to the opportunities,” SCC head coach Bryan Case said. “We have the potential to be above average, but we’ll have to mesh early and build from there.

“The guys seem to be ‘buying in’ to the program, so we’ll have to wait and see how that translates to the season.”

Batta, a senior, completed 56 percent of his passes for almost 1,600 yards with 13 touchdowns, adding three more scores with his legs. Nattress, a senior, had 300 yards rushing and nine scores while catching nine passes for 225 and a TD.

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

Pettigrew, Preston Schumacher and Dawson Beidler.

Bryan Case

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR GREENE COUNTY are, front row, (left to right): Patrick Graham, Gavin Scheuermann, Camden Jacobs, Broc Stream, Jackson Turner, Bryce Habben, Keegan Lawrence, Camden Strennen, Nick Madsen, Phoenix Hartman and Kendall Freeman. Back Row: Gavin Trecker, Nick Stream, Crew Conner, Cody Allen, Jack Hansen, Gabe Ebersole, Noah Gornell, Adam Bills, Logan Butler, Trey Schilling, Christopher Daugherty, Michael

STRONG NUCLEUS BACK FOR RAMS

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

On paper, it would appear as though Caden Duncan and Greene County are ready for a deep playoff run this fall.

Coming off an eight-win season, the Rams return quarterback Gabe Ebersole, leading receiver Jack Hansen and five of the Top-7 tacklers on defense from that team.

“We pride ourselves on being physical up front and being quick on the outside,” Duncan said. “Those are both strengths this year. We hope to be able to control things with out physicality but also have the ability to make things happen with our playmakers on both sides of the ball.”

Much of that starts with Ebersole, as the senior is coming off a season in which

he threw for over 1,200 yards with 15 touchdowns, adding another 321 and five scores with his legs. Hansen led the way with 24 catches for 463 yards, scoring three touchdowns.

Junior Camden Strennen racked up 338 yards and a pair of TDs while also showing his hands out of the backfield. Gavin Scheuermann had 112 yards on just 21 carries

and a handful of others also return.

Nick Stream, Trey Schilling, Kendall Freeman and Camden Jacobs will be counted on to replace the rest of the production that left with graduation.

Cody Allen, Michael Rumley, Scheuermann

See RAMS, Page 36

Submitted photo

Rumley and Nathan Behne.

RAMS , Continued from Page 35

and Strennen are among the leading tacklers back. Rumley recorded 13.5 tackles for loss, Scheuermann had 6.5 and Strennen registered 50.5 tackles.

As a collective unit, Greene County forced 19 turnovers, with three of those resulting in scores. They also had two kickoff returns for TDs, including one by Strennen.

“We return a good amount of experience. Because of that, we hope to have a good season,” Duncan said. “Our goal every year is to compete for a district championship and to make a run in the playoffs. That is our goal (again).”

Reliable kicker Nathan Behne is another returning piece for Greene County, as he was 33for-34 on extra-point attempts and also made 7 of 11 field goals.

Duncan, who is 32-9 in his head coaching career, is a former Prairie Valley standout who also served as an assistant at Southeast Valley.

RAMS AT A GLANCE

GREENE COUNTY

Returning letterwinners (16): Gabe Ebersole, sr.; Jack Hansen, sr.; Cody Allen, sr.; Gavin Scheuermann, sr.; Trey Schilling, sr.; Michael Rumley, sr.; Logan Butler, sr.; Noah Cornell, sr.; Nathan Behne, sr.; Camden Strennen, jr.; Nick Stream, jr.; Kamden Kinne, jr.; Bryce Habben, jr.; Patrick Graham, jr.; Kendall Freeman, jr.; Camden Jacobs, jr.

Top prospects: Keegan Lawrence, soph.; Broc Stream, soph.; Chris Daugherty, soph.; Nick Madsen, soph.; Adam Bills, soph.

2022 record: 8-2 overall, 5-0 in district.

Coach: Caden Duncan begins his fourth season with the Rams, where he has gone 32-9 overall. Duncan previously coached at Southeast Valley and Panorama after graduating from Iowa State University.

RAM SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 ................................................................. at Carroll

Sept. 1 Perry

Sept. 8 Atlantic

Sept. 15 ................................................................ at Saydel

Sept. 22 Carroll Kuemper

Sept. 29 at Roland-Story

Oct.

Oct.

........................................................ Southeast Valley

at Des Moines Christian

PREP FOOTBALL

2022 AREA IPSWA ALL-STATERS

Caden Duncan

JAGUARS , Continued from Page 22

said. “But we lost all five starting members of our line and eight starters on offense and six on defense.”

Drew Temple, Tyler Moreland, Brady Hanson, Nathan Graves, Ryan Wicklein and Ross Larson all return as letterwinners. Jace Hanson recorded 30 tackles with two sacks, Brady Hanson had 19 tackles with a sack and Crouse recorded 23 tackles.

Larson was tied for the team lead with two interceptions with Miller, VanSickle and Crouse all recording a turnover.

Prior to going 3-5, Southeast Valley had finished .500 or better in 13 of 14 seasons dating back to 2008. During that run, they won 12 games on three different occasions.

PREP FOOTBALL

Swieter has won 59 games in eight years for the Jaguars and is 136-84 overall in his 21-year career as a head coach that includes stints with Prairie Valley and Lakeland.

Messenger file photos

HUMBOLDT (right photo) celebrates with the trophy after reaching the Class 3A state semifinals in the UNI-Dome.

LANCE COON (top left) runs the ball against Webster City.

COREY DETTMANN (bottom right) carries the ball down field for the Wildcats.

a broken bone in his hand during the pop scrimmage against Fort Ddoge.

In two years as the main running back, Coon has rushed 100 times for 2,055 yards with 26 touchdowns, adding 11 receptions for 106 and another score.

Leading receiver Corey Dettmann is back after hauling in 34 catches for 500 yards with four scores in 2022. Mason Van Pelt, a junior, also saw key minutes at receiver and will be counted on, along with Coon and Dettmann, to help break in a new quarterback.

A familiar name will get the first chance to replace all-stater Will Orness under center. Coen Matson is the junior brother of former standout signalcaller and current Iowa State University player Caden Matson.

Last year, Matson saw a handful of snaps working out of the spread-option attack.

“The strengths of our team this year will definitely be overall team speed,” Elman said. “We did lose a lot of size

WILDCATS AT A GLANCE

HUMBOLDT

Top returning players: Lance Coon, sr.; Mason Van Pelt, jr.; Corey Dettmann, sr.; Gaige Allen, sr.

Top prospects: Coen Matson, jr.; Mason Brown, sr.; Grant Dieleman, sr.; Keegan Groat, jr.; Jackson Dodd, jr.. 2022 record: 10-2 overall (reached Class 3A state semifinals).

Coach: Derrick Elman has put together a 32-19 record in five seasons with the Wildcats, including back-to-back appearances in the state

last year, but we gained in speed. Our linemen on both sides of the ball will be faster and our skill players’ speed is for sure something we think we can lean on.”

The Humboldt defense was one of the best in the state a year ago, recording four consecutive shutouts to begin the season. Only one team scored over 14 points on them during the regular season.

semifinals.

WILDCAT SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 Spencer

Sept. 1 at Ballard

Sept. 8 Van Meter

Sept. 15 at North Polk

Sept. 22 Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Sept. 29 at Charles City

Oct. 6 ................................................ at Algona

Oct. 13 ........................................... Clear Lake

Oct. 20 .................................... at Webster City

Dettmann and Gaige Allen are two of the top tacklers back, as Dettmann recorded 39.5 tackles and Allen had 38 with two sacks. Dettmann also had three of the 17 interceptions the team recorded.

“Our players along both lines will have to develop quickly in order for us to be successful,” Elman said. “We have a number of kids ready to step up and fill those holes that we have.”

Mike Swieter

WILDCATS , Continued from Page 28

EAGLES CONTINUE TO GROW

Five returning starters and four more players with varsity experience will look to help Eagle Grove build on a three-win campaign from a year ago.

Logan Willard, a graduate of Eagle Grove, enters his fourth season in charge of the program, which has now put together backto-back 3-6 marks after going winless for three consecutive seasons.

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer Logan Willard

Seniors Drake Canavan and Connor Christopher are joined by juniors Levi Langfitt and Jesus Baez, along with sophomore Reece Demuth, to form a strong nucleus for Willard and the Eagles.

Senior Dominic Hernandez, junior Brett

Ascherl and sophomores Hayden Schafer and Leelan Spencer are also returning to the fold.

“We will be a young team this year, but have the talent and ability to grow fast,” Willard said. “We need to stay healthy in order to be successful. Drake and Connor will be our leaders as we work towards our goals of competing for a district title and returning to the playoffs.”

See EAGLES, Page 56

EAGLES AT A GLANCE

EAGLE GROVE

Returning letterwinners (9): Drake Canavan, sr.; Connor Christopher, sr.; Reece Demuth, soph.; Levi Langfitt, jr.; Brett Ascherl, jr.; Hayden Schaefer, soph.; Leelan Spencer, soph.; Jesus Baez, jr.; Dominic Hernandez, sr.

Top prospect: James Harle, soph. 2022 record: 3-6 overall, 2-3 in district.

Coach: Logan Willard enters his fourth season as head coach of his alma mater.

EAGLE SCHEDULE

Aug. 24 ............................... Clarion-Goldfield/Dows

Sept. 1 at Southeast Valley

Sept. 8 at Forest City

Sept. 15 Sioux Central

Sept. 22 ............................................. at Manson NW

Sept. 29 at East Sac County

Oct. 6 Emmetsburg

Oct. 13 ........................................... Pocahontas Area

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR EAGLE GROVE are, front row (left to right): Levi Langfill, Hayden Schaefer, Connor Christopher and Reece Demuth. Back Row: Brett Ascherl, Drake Canavan, Jesus Baez and Dominic Hernandez.

RETURNING

COWBOYS

COWBOYS TAKING THE NEXT STEP

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

It was a strong season for Clarion-Goldfield/ Dows in 2022, as the Cowboys had their first winning record since 2014 with a 5-4 overall mark.

The nine wins over the last two years is three more than they had in the previous four seasons combined.

Now head coach Caleb Vogel will try to keep C-G/D headed in the right direction.

“One of our biggest goals is to be 1-0 every single day,” Vogel said. “What can we improve on or do better at than the day before?

“We want to make it to the playoffs, but

we have to play our game of football first and that starts with every single athlete buying into this program. We live by F.A.M.I.L.Y. — Forget About Me, I Love You.”

Quarterback Preston Gardner, who ran for a team-high 1,078 yards and scored nine TDs in 2022, has graduated. His backfield mate, Nevan Foss, also graduated, taking his 717 yards and 12 touchdowns with him.

See COWBOYS, Page 41

COWBOYS AT A GLANCE

CLARION-GOLDFIELD/DOWS

Returning players: Uli Frias, TE/DB, sr.; Diego Gonzalez, RB/LB, sr.; Colin Kirstein, WR/DB, sr.; Caden Hankins, OL/DL, sr.; Wyatt DeCoster, WR/ DB, sr.; Nick Sisson, OL/DL, sr.; Mason Allen, OL/ RB/DB, sr.; Carson Nesheim, QB/DB, sr.; Caleb Seaba, RB/LB, jr.; Bryce Lindaman, OL/DL, jr.; Cole Rothman, OL/DL, jr.; Owen Sweeney, WR/ DB, jr.

Top prospects: Jaxen Engstrom, RB/DB, jr.; Luis Matute-Hernandez, OL/DL, sr.; Selvin Gonzalez, RB/DB, so.; Huxley Lingenfelter, TE/DB, fr.; Charlie Campbell, RB/DB, fr.; JD Morrical, QB/DB, fr. 2022 record: 5-4 overall, 2-3 in district.

Coach: Caleb Vogel is in his third season as head coach at C-G/D. Vogel is both a graduate of and former assistant at Linn-Mar High School in Marion.

COWBOY SCHEDULE

Aug. 24 .......................................... at Eagle Grove

Sept. 1 ............................. Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Sept. 8 at Southeast Valley

Sept. 15 Garner-Hayfield/Ventura

Sept. 22 ....................................... at Estherville-LC

Sept. 29 Forest City

Oct. 6 at Okoboji

Oct. 13 Spirit Lake

Messenger photo by Britt Kudla

LETTERWINNERS FOR CLARION-GOLDFIELD/DOWS are, front row (left to right): Uli Frias, Diego Gonzalez, Colin Kirstein, Wyatt DeCoster and Owen Sweeney. Back Row: Caden Hankins, Mason Allen, Caleb Seaba, Bryce Lindman, Carson Nesheim, Nick Sisson and Cole Rothman.

Caleb Vogel

COWBOYS , Continued from Page 40

CLARION-GOLDFIELD/DOWS (2022 Statistics)

RETURNING AREA LEADERS

Calhoun, 9.

Carson Nesheim, a senior, is likely to get the first chance to replace Gardner, as he saw a handful of snaps last year. Diego Gonzalez rushed for 59 yards and a TD, while also catching three passes.

The CG-/D defense should be strong in the early going with key players Uli Frias, Gonzalez, Colin Kirstein, Mason Allen and Cole Rothman all back. Frias had 40 tackles as a junior, Gonzalez recorded four sacks and Allen had six sacks and nine tackles for loss.

“Our senior group is our strength,” Vogel said. “They are becoming leaders on and off the field. A few juniors are stepping up as well. You will notice how well we work together as a unit, how well we face adversity and that we never give up.

“We need to improve at understanding the game better in all facets, and why we do what we do. We have big shoes to fill, but the guys are doing a great job. I’m happy with who we have.”

CONTACT US: sports@messengernews.net

Phone: (515) 573-2141 (Ext. 435, 436 or 438)

Passing Yards

Alex Manske, Algona, 1,688; Gavin Batta, South Central Calhoun, 1,577; JT Laufersweiler, St. Edmond, 1,409; Gabe Ebersole, Greene County, 1,253; Logan Moline, Manson Northwest Webster, 647.

Passing Touchdowns

JT Laufersweiler, St. Edmond, 15; Gabe Ebersole, Greene County, 15; Alex Manske, Algona, 14; Gavin Batta, South Central Calhoun, 13; Logan Moline, Manson Northwest Webster, 7.

Rushing Yards

Jaxon Cherry, Webster City, 1,804; Lance Coon, Humboldt, 1,566; JT Laufersweiler, St. Edmond, 521; Alex Manske, Algona, 407; Klay Baker, St. Edmond, 343.

Rushing Touchdowns

Jaxon Cherry, Webster City, 31; Lance Coon, Humboldt, 21; JT Laufersweiler, St. Edmond, 13; Landon Montag, West BendMallard, 11; Brock Nattress, South Central

Receptions

Corey Dettmann, Humboldt, 34; Keegan Soard, South Central Calhoun, 33; Jack Hansen, Greene County, 24; Grant Williams, Fort Dodge, 20; Caydin Anderson, Manson Northwest Webster, 19.

Receiving Yards

Keegan Soard, South Central Calhoun, 780; Corey Dettmann, Humboldt, 500; Jack Hansen, Greene County, 463; Porter Reffer, Algona, 364; Ty Adams, Fort Dodge, 267.

Receiving Touchdowns

Keegan Soard, South Central Calhoun, 9; Grant Williams, Fort Dodge, 6; Preston Guerdet, North Union, 4; Porter Reffer, Algona, 4; Matt Condon, Manson Northwest Webster, 4; Corey Dettmann, Humboldt, 4.

Tackles

Karter Ludwig, East Sac County, 78.5; Cody Allen, Greene County, 64; Jaxon Cherry, Webster City, 61; Ryan Sommerlot,

Pocahontas Area, 59.5; Colin Rasch, North Union, 59.

Sacks

Mason Allen, Clarion-Goldfield/Dows, 6; Isaiah Caldwell, Fort Dodge, 5; Jaxon Zaugg, West Bend-Mallard, 5; Jaxon Cherry, Webster City, 4.5; Keegan Hisler, Webster City, 4.5.

Interceptions

Corey Dettmann, Humboldt, 3; Justin Bauer, Bishop Garrigan, 3; Levi Langfitt, Eagle Grove, 3; Gavin Batta, South Central Calhoun, 2; Keegan Soard, South Central Calhoun, 2; Alex Manske, Algona, 2; Ross Larson, Southeast Valley, 2; Caydin Anderson, Manson Northwest Webster, 2; Charlie Veit, East Sac County, 2; Luke Wernimont, East Sac County, 2.

Made PATs

Nathan Behne, Greene County, 33; Pedro Patricio, Newell-Fonda, 30; Mortiz Haensch, West Bend-Mallard, 28; Brallon Gomez, Clarion-Goldfield/Dows, 26; Parker Schillerstrom, Fort Dodge, 22.

HIGH HOPES IN BULLDOG CAMP

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Expectations have risen to a fever pitch for Algona in 2023.

Led by 20 returning letterwinners, the Bulldogs are looking to become contenders in Class 3A once more.

But they will definitely be tested early and often, as the non-district schedule includes the likes of Spirit Lake and BoydenHull/Rock Valley. And when they get into the district portion, Algona and head coach Andy Jacobson will be matched up with some familiar foes in North Central Conference

rivals Clear Lake, Humboldt, Webster City and Hampton-Dumont/CAL.

“We have a really tough district with many 2022 playoff teams,” Jacobson said. “And those teams have some high quality players at them. It’s going to be a tough schedule.”

Jacobson and the Bulldogs can lean on

seven

senior starters and several more from a junior class that includes Alex Manske, who is garnering attention at the Div. I level from schools such as Iowa, Iowa

See BULLDOGS, Page 43

GOOD LUCK BULLDOGS

Photo by Greg Grabianowski BULLDOGS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR ALGONA are, front row (left to right): Caleb Penner, Devin Larsen, Landon Welp and Tate Slagle. Middle Row: Jack Limbaugh, Ryan Weier, Alex Manske, Drew Schutjer, Reid Louwagie, Cohen Reffer, Cort Klein and Hunter Kollasch. Back Row: Matt Hoover, Jeremiah Murphy, Evan Allie, Landon Thompson, Aiden Ulrich, Porter Reffer, Chase Roof and Jayden Erpelding.

returning

State, Nebraska, Penn State and Kansas State among others.

Manske completed 57 percent of his passes as a sophomore, throwing for 1,688 yards with 14 touchdowns. He also ran for 407 yards and six scores while recording almost 60 tackles on defense in earning all-state honors for a second time.

Seniors Jayden

Erpelding, Porter Reffer, Matthew Hoover, Reid Louwagie, Caleb Penner, Hunter Kollasch and Cohan Reffer all started on either offense or defense as Algona won four games. Juniors Manske, Tate Slagle, Devin Larsen, Ashton Moreno and Jack Limbaugh are other returning starters.

“We have a lot of experience returning, but some big positions to replace at linebacker, offensive line and in the

backfield,” Jacobson said. “We need to continue to grow and improve at all levels.

“We need to build on our experience gained from last year.”

Like Manske, Limbaugh is also attracting Div. I attention with his 6-foot-4, 230-pound frame. He started on the offensive line and also had seven tackles for loss last season.

Erpelding, Porter Reffer and others will be key in replacing the production of leading rusher Lamorn Ulfers, while Reffer caught 11 passes for 364 yards with four scores, averaging over 33 yards per catch.

Erpelding was also big in the pass game with 21 catches and two scores, but the majority of the remaining catches graduated.

Algona opens its season with consecutive home games against Spirit Lake and Forest City. The Bulldogs will host Charles City, Humboldt and Hampton-Dumont/CAL in the district portion of their season, with road trips to Clear Lake and Webster City.

BULLDOGS AT A GLANCE

ALGONA

Returning letterwinners (20): Jayden Erpelding, sr.; Porter Reffer, sr.; Matthew Hoover, sr.; Jeremiah Murphy, sr.; Reid Louwagie, sr.; Colby Jennings, sr.; Chase Roof, sr.; Caleb Penner, sr.; Hunter Kollasch, sr.; Cohen Reffer, sr.; Tate Slagle, jr.; Devin Larsen, jr.; Alex Manske, jr.; Ashton Moreno, jr.; Landon Thompson, jr.; Drew Schutjer, jr.; Aiden Ulrich, jr.; Jack Limbaugh, jr.; Evan Allie, soph.

Top prospects: Landon Welp, sr.; Will Weichert, soph.; Max Nevitt, soph. 2022 record: The Bulldogs were 4-5 overall and 1-4 in the district.

Coach: Andy Jacobson enters his 10th season with

the Bulldogs, where he has won 43 games overall. Jacobson previously was an assistant coach at Manson Northwest Webster.

BULLDOG SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 Spirit Lake

Sept. 1 Forest City

Sept. 8 at Estherville-LC

Sept. 15 ............................ at Boyden-Hull/Rock Valley

Sept. 22 Charles City

Sept. 29 at Clear Lake

Oct. 6 ............................................................ Humboldt

Oct. 13 at Webster City

Oct. 20 Hampton-Dumont/CAL

Andy Jacobson

Photo by Rick Thompson

ALEX MANSKE points

out a defender as he scrambles for Algona against Humboldt last season.

GOLDEN BEARS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR BISHOP GARRIGAN

BEARS READY TO FIND THEIR FOOTING

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

The Bishop Garrigan football team continues to make the transition to eightplayer football under legendary head coach Marty Wadle.

Coming off back-to-back three-win seasons, the Golden Bears are hoping for better results this fall. After winning at least six games every season between 2013-2019, Garrigan has gone just 8-17 the last three years.

“We have great numbers and good depth,” Wadle said. “We need to stay health and play better than the last two seasons, but we have the potential to compete for a district title.”

Wadle, who has won 216 games in threeplus decades leading the Golden Bears, is counting on five returning starters and five more letterwinners to build around.

Seniors Justin Bauer, Sam Plathe, Caden

Roethler and Logan Nemmers are joined by junior Keaton Helleseth as starters back. Nemmers presents a difficult matchup for anybody in eight-player, weighing in at over 300 pounds.

Roethler ran for 233 yards and scored seven touchdowns last year and is the most experienced skill position player back. He also had 44 tackles on defense, with Plathe recording 28 and Bauer picking off three passes.

Gavin Menke, Benjy Trainer, Brody Ludwig, Drew Lappe and Trayton Cink also returning

BISHOP GARRIGAN

Returning letterwinners (10): Justin Bauer, sr.; Sam Plathe, sr.; Caden Roethler, sr.; Logan Nemmers, sr.; Keaton Helleseth, jr.; Gavin Menke, sr.; Benjy Trainer, sr.; Brody Ludwig, sr.; Drew Lappe, sr.; Trayton Cink, jr.

Top prospects: Drew Muller, jr.; Tate Foertsch, soph.; Owen Murphy, jr.; Wyatt Rosenmeyer, jr.; Carter Schwab, soph.; Ethan Marso, soph.; Andrew Lichter, jr.; Brody Ludwig, sr.

2022 record: Garrigan was 3-5 overall and 2-4 in the district.

Coach: Marty Wadle begins his 32nd season

as head coach of the Golden Bears. Wadle has put together a career record of 216-93 with the school.

GOLDEN BEAR SCHEDULE

Aug. 25........................................ at St. Edmond

Sept. 1 at West Bend-Mallard

Sept. 8 North Iowa

Sept. 15 .............................. Northwood-Kensett

Sept. 22 at Rockford

Sept. 29 ............................... Siouxland Christian

Oct. 6 at GTRA

Oct. 13 ................................. at Harris-Lake Park VISIT

Photo by Greg Grabianowski

are, front row (left to right): Brody Ludwig, Keaton Helleseth, Trayton Cink and Justin Bauer. Back: Gavin Menke, Logan Nemmers, Drew Lappe, Benjy Trainer, Caden Roethler and Sam Plathe.

GOLDEN BEARS AT A GLANCE

Marty Wadle

2022 AREA FOOTBALL STANDINGS

over 100 yards and two scores on the ground.

Moline will have a pair of key targets back in Anderson and classmate Matt Condon, along with running back Kamden Birkey. Anderson had 19 receptions for 161 yards and two scores, Condon finished with 13 catches for 258 and four touchdowns, and Birkey ran for 203 yards and hit paydirt twice for MNW.

Birkey also had 10 receptions out of the backfield.

“I look for all of those guys to have

COUGARS , Continued from Page 20

a big role as far as leadership and on field performance goes,” Noffsinger said. “We will not have the varsity experience up front we had last year, but I do think in a lot of ways our offensive line can be much improved for this coming season.

“We have a small senior class and will have a lot of young guys that will not be used to varsity experience across the board. We will need to get them accustomed to the Friday night lights quickly.”

Birkey, Cooper Harman and Ethon

Morrow are leading tacklers back for the MNW defense. As a unit, Manson Northwest Webster forced 17 turnovers, recovering 11 fumbles.

On special teams, Hanson averaged 18 yards per kickoff return with one going back for a score. He also handled punt return duties while Anderson and Harman shared time at punter.

The Cougars are seeking their first winning record since going 8-3 in 2013. They have won four games twice and three games three more times during that span.

with varsity experience under their belts.

“We have good numbers along the offensive line, at linebacker, running back, receiver and tight end,” Wadle said. “We lost our starting quarterback, so that is a key area we need to solve in the preseason.”

Junior Drew Muller and sophomore Tate Foertsch will be looking to replace quarterback Garrett Heying, who had over 1,000 yards of total offense last year with 11 touchdowns.

Wadle will also be looking to the likes of Owen Murphy, Wyatt Rosenmeyer, Carter Schwab, Ethan Marso, Andrew Lichter and Brody Ludwig to fill holes and provide depth.

GOLDEN BEARS , Continued from Page 44

EIGHT-PLAYER, DISTRICT 1

EIGHT-PLAYER DISTRICT 2

Messenger file photo

LANCE COON (4) celebrates with teammates during Humboldt’s Class 3A state quarterfinal game last season.

Messenger file photo

BISHOP GARRIGAN’S JUSTIN BAUER defends St. Edmond's Caleb Schaeffer last season inside Dodger Stadium.

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS

WOLVERINES

WOLVERINES ARE BACK ON THE MAP

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Fresh off a seven-win season, the West Bend-Mallard football team enters a new year looking for continued success.

The Wolverines return six letterwinners and four starters back for head coach Tyson Wirtz, who has built the program up from one victory in his first season to 11 over the past two campaigns.

Seniors Landon Montag, Logan Grimm, Mitch Stevens and Jaxon Zaugg all started

last year for West Bend-Mallard, with Carter Fehr and Cortlyn Schupbach earning varsity time.

“We have a lot of roles to fill with a big graduating class, including three all-state players,” Wirtz said. “That being said, we hope to compete every week and get better as the season goes.

“We are hopeful for another state playoff run.”

WOLVERINES AT A GLANCE

WEST BEND-MALLARD

Returning letterwinners (6): Carter Fehr, sr.; Landon Montag, sr.; Logan Grimm, sr.; Mitch Stevens, sr.; Cortlyn Schupbach, sr.; Jaxon Zaugg, sr.

Top prospects: Cole Fehr, jr.; Clint Fehr, jr.; Austin Schmidt, jr.; Aidan Yoch, sr. 2022 record: 7-3 overall, 6-1 in district. Coach: Tyson Wirtz, a WB-M graduate, enters his fourth season leading the Wolverines.

WOLVERINE SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 ...................................... at Newell-Fonda

Sept. 1 ....................................... Bishop Garrigan

Sept. 8 ................................... Remsen St. Mary’s

Sept. 15 GTRA

Sept. 22 Harris-Lake Park

Sept. 29 North Iowa

Oct. 6 Northwood-Kensett

Oct. 13 ............................................. at Rockford

Photo by Greg Grabianowski

FOR WEST BEND-MALLARD are (left to right): Logan Grimm, Jaxon Zaugg, Mitch Stevens, Cortlyn Schupbach, Landon Montag and Carter Fehr.

WOLVERINES , Continued from Page 46

Montag ran for 834 yards and scored 11 touchdowns while Grimm had a pair of scores. They will be counted on to replace Max Fehr, who accounted for over 1,800 yards of total offense and had 27 rushing TDs out of the quarterback position.

On defense, Grimm had 40.5 tackles and Zaugg recorded 26.5 with 7.5 for loss and five sacks. The Wolverines forced 24 turnovers and scored four defensive touchdowns with two more TDs on special teams.

“We have a great senior class,” Wirtz said. “We have two fantastic captains in Jaxon and Mitch that lead selflessly just as the other seniors do. We are excited to have another hardworking group back, includign a strong defense.”

Cole Fehr, Clint Fehr, Austin Schmidt and Aidan Yoch are key newcomers looking to carve out a role. Zaugg will also handle punting duties after averaging over 30 yards per kick a season ago.

The seven wins were the most since going 10-2 in 2014.

ago.

Tyson Wirtz

Photo by Greg Grabianowski LOGAN GRIMM runs the ball for West BendMallard last season. Grimm returns for the Wolverines, who won seven games a year

Grimm rushed for two touchdowns and was a team leader on defense.

MUSTANGS A MODEL OF CONSISTENCY

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

The Newell-Fonda football team has become a model for consistency among programs in the state, recording 13 consecutive winning seasons.

Overall, the Mustangs have won at least eight games 11 times during that stretch, including a 10-2 record last year that included another appearance in the state semifinals inside the UNI-Dome.

Leading the way through it all has been Brian Wilken, who owns 188 wins in 23

seasons with the team.

To keep that going, through, Newell-Fonda will need to find replacements for three all-state players and several more key twoway athletes who have graduated.

“The strengths of this football team remain uncertain at this time due to the number of new faces that will be on the field for us this fall,” Wilken said. “There

are a number of things that this football team could do very well which could lead to being a strength of this football team.

“However, these things will remain in question until we begin preseason practices. Several of our returning letterwinners saw numerous snaps on both sides of the football a year ago due to injuries. We are hopeful that the experience that these young men gained playing varsity football a year ago will help us as we begin this year.”

As a freshman, Trevor Tauber saw time at quarterback, completing a handful of passes

while showing his running skills. Helping him out will be Ty Tauber, a senior who ran for 175 yards and scored five touchdowns last year.

Trenton Struss, Jacksyn Hogrefe and Guyson Lyman are back at the skill positions to provide experience.

“Our offensive and defensive lines are the biggest question marks,” Wilken said. “We return only one starter on both sides

Photo by Jamie Knapp, Storm Lake Times Pilot MUSTANGS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR NEWELL-FONDA are, front row (left to right): Trevor Tauber, Jackson Hogrefe, Jayde Naughton and Trenton Struss.

Back Row: Austin Harth, Eli Roberts, Trevor Johnson, Ty Tauber, Guyson Lyman and Max Carlson.

Brian Wilken

ball. We have had some outstanding skill players come through this program, but the success of our teams year in and year out has been a result of the tremendous offensive and defensive line play that we get.”

Max Carlson, Jayde Naughton, Trevor Johnson, Eli Roberts and Austin Harth are all expected to take on more of a role on both sides of the ball.

Newcomers such as Alex Peters, Kalib Fevold, Camden Nehring-Hedden, Hunter Watts, Jake Roberts and Preston Riley will be counted on to fill the void lost to graduation.

“Our depth is a major concern for this team,” Wilken said. “We were able to overcome many of the injuries we had a year ago because of the great depth that we had on both sides of the football. That is not the case currently.

“We are going to have to develop that depth at all positions very quickly.”

MUSTANGS AT A GLANCE

NEWELL-FONDA

Returning letterwinners (10): Ty Tauber, sr.; Eli Roberts, sr.; Trenton Struss, sr.; Max Carlson, jr.; Guyson Lyman, jr.; Austin Harth, sr.; Trevor Johnson, sr.; Jayde Naughton, jr.; Trevor Tauber, soph.; Jacksyn Hogrefe, soph.

Top prospects: Alex Peters, sr.; Kalib Fevold, sr.; Camden Nehring-Hedden, jr.; Jake Roberts, jr.; Hunter Watts, jr.; Preston Riley, soph. 2022 record: 10-2 overall, 5-1 in district (reached eight-player state semifinals).

Coach: In over two decades leading the Mustangs, Brian Wilken has won 188 games. He is 196-66 overall in his 25-year career.

MUSTANG SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 West Bend-Mallard

Sept. 1 ............................................. at West Harrison

Sept. 8 Woodbine

Sept. 15 ........................................ at Harris-Lake Park

Sept. 22 Remsen St. Mary’s

Sept. 29 at Boyer Valley

Oct. 6 ...................................................... at Ar-We-Va

Oct. 13 Siouxland Christian

THE CREDITS

The 66th 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. All staff pictures were taken by Britt Kudla.

Nick Manwarren designed the cover.

We would like to again take this time to thank each and every coach for their cooperation during the summer months. This project would not be possible without their effort and constant communication.

Best of luck to all Messenger-area programs this fall. Please remember to call (515-573-2141, ext. 435, 436 or 438) or e-mail (sports@messengernews. net) results to our staff immediately following your repsective games. We are dedicated to providing the most extensive football coverage around, but we need your help in completing our mission!

—The Messenger Sports Staff

RAIDERS

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR EAST SAC COUNTY

Brett Thayer and Kaydon Erpelding.

RAIDERS LOADED AT SKILL SPOTS

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Eric McCollough will have an experienced group of players to work with this fall as he leads East Sac County on the gridiron for the 16th season.

McCollough and the Raiders have 16 letterwinners back, with 15 of them having made starts last year.

That includes quarterback Luke Wright, his top rushers in Landon Grindle and Logan Schroeder, and top receivers Sam Julin and Charlie Veit.

Wright threw for just under 300 yards

and ran for another 175 with three scores, while Grindle had 224 and a TD. Schroeder added 135, averaging over four yards per carry.

Eric McCollough

“To reach our goals, we have to get our offense to produce,” McCollough said. “We have decent team speed and our schedule is more

See RAIDERS, Page 56

RAIDERS AT A GLANCE

EAST SAC COUNTY

Returning letterwinners (16): William Smith, sr.; Luke Wernimont, sr.; Kaydon Erpelding, sr.; Logan Schroeder, sr.; Brett Thayer, sr.; Chandler Lahr, sr.; Karter Ludwig, sr.; Charlie Veit, sr.; Bradyn Burns, sr.; Tate Lahr, sr.; Luke Wright, sr.; Sam Julin, jr.; Landon Grindle, jr.; Asher Lawler, jr.; Jack Gullett, jr.; Seth Donelson, soph.

Top prospects: Kade Snyder, soph.; Carson Schmitt, fr.; Cal McCollough, fr.; Gabe King, fr.; Jackson Rabendall, sr. 2022 record: 2-7 overall, 2-3 in district.

Coach: Eric McCollough enters his 16th season

leading the Raiders, where he has won 61 games. In his 18-year coaching career, McCollough owns 72 victories.

RAIDER SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 at IKM-Manning

Sept. 1 OABCIG

Sept. 8 .........................................at Missouri Valley

Sept. 15 ...........................................at Emmetsburg

Sept. 22 Pocahontas Area

Sept. 29 Eagle Grove

Oct. 6 ...............................................at Manson NW

Oct. 13 .............................................. Sioux Central

Photo by Dale Wegner, The Sac Sun

are, front row (left to right): Landon Grindle, Chandler Lahr, Logan Schroeder, Charlie Veit, Tate Lahr, Bradyn Burns and Karter Ludwig. Back Row: Ryan Zimmerman, Jack Gullett, Sam Julin, Asher Lawler, William Smith, Luke Wright, Luke Wernimont, Seth Donelson,

BIG SHOES TO FILL FOR WARRIORS

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

The North Union football team has a massive hole to fill in terms of offensive production after the graduation of Bryer Prochniak.

Behind Prochniak and several others, the Warriors won nine games over the past two seasons, nearly matching their win total from the prior five years combined.

Prochniak and fellow graduate Carter Morphew combined for 1,703 of the 1,794 rushing yards North Union had last year and all 25 rushing scores. Morphew also threw for almost 800 yards and eight more TDs. Replacing that will be a joint effort, as nine letterwinners return for head coach Matt Ernster including senior skill position players Kaden Laabs, Talan Priester, Preston Guerdet and Landon Hagedorn, along with junior Grady Madden.

Matt Ernster

“We’re excited for this upcoming season,” said Ernster, who graduated from North Kossuth, which would eventually consolidate to become North Union. “We feel that we can continue to be competitive week in and week out. We will give teams in our district tough matchups.

“We are going to need to stay

See WARRIORS, Page 56

RETURNING LETTERWINNERS FOR NORTH UNION are, front row (left to right): Kaden Laabs, Carter Martens, Talan Priester and Preston Guerdet. Back Row: Colin Rasch, Kolton Walter, Brennan Bollinger, Landon Hagedorn and Grady Madden.

E-HAWKS EAGER TO PROVE THEMSELVES

By DANA BECKER, Sports Writer

Consecutive seasons below .500 has Emmetsburg itching to get on the field and back on the winning side this fall.

The E-Hawks, who went 4-5 overall a season ago, return several key players, including running backs Carson Baak and Jace NelsonBrown.

Baak racked up 249 yards and scored six touchdowns for third-year head coach Ben Thomsen, while Nelson-Brown — a standout on the wrestling mat — had 176 and four scores. Both averaged nearly six yards per carry, as Emmetsburg rushed for almost 2,500 yards as a squad last fall.

Nelson-Brown also had 163 receiving yards. A total of 13 letterwinners are back, including 10 from a large and important junior class.

On defense, Baak, Gavin Swanson, Nelson-Brown, Collyn Trembly, Gage Jorgenson, Justin Wirtz, Jacob Fiene, Cameron Madden and Clayton Rubel led the way.

The E-Hawks open at Central Lyon-GLR on Friday. Their home debut is Sept. 8 against Sheldon.

E-HAWKS AT A GLANCE

EMMETSBURG

Returning players (13): Carson Baak, LB/RB, jr.; Gavin Swanson, SS/QB, jr.; Clayton Rubel, FS/ QB, sr.; Cameron Madden, DB/ SE, jr.; Jace Nelson-Brown, LB/RB, sr.; Byron Maina, DB/SE, jr.; Gage Jorgenson, OL/DL, sr.; Justin Wirtz, LB/OL, jr.; Tanner Reinholdt, OL/ DL, jr.; Keegan Hamerlink, OL/DL, jr.; Carter Hudson, OL/DL, jr.; JJ Fiene, OL/DL, jr.; Collyn Trembly, DL/RB, jr.

Top prospects: Ryan Wirtz, DL/ TE, so.; Tyce Jenness, LB/RB, so.; Brayden Yates, LB/RB, so.; Owen Householder, LB/RB, so.; Nick

Saxton, OL/DL, so.; Jack Huberty, OL/DL, so.; Tyler Albrant, LB/OL, jr. 2022 season: 4-5 overall, 3-2 in the district.

Coach: Ben Thomsen is in his third season leading the E-Hawks. He is a graduate of Wartburg College.

E-HAWK SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 at Central Lyon-GLR

Sept. 1 at Estherville-LC

Sept. 8 .............................. Sheldon

Sept. 15 East Sac County

Sept. 22 ................. at Sioux Central

Sept. 29 Pocahontas Area

Oct. 6 ....................... at Eagle Grove

Oct. 13 Manson NW Webster

E-HAWKS

Gage Jorgenson and Jacob Grau-West.

Submitted photo

SENIORS FOR EMMETSBURG are (left to right): Clayton Rubel, Jace Nelson-Brown,

Ben Thomsen

Front row L-R: Kaysha Brown, Kira Radunz, Olyvia Olson, Lydia Witzke, Mia Mortensen, Kayla Welter, Kara Perry, Mikayla Monahan, Olivia Wood, Addison Johnson, Aubree Tasler

Middle Row L-R: Jasmine Sliefert, Jazmin Williams, Kayla Keokham, Olivia Blankenfeld, Patience Johnson, Juliana Warren, Daria Kline, Sofia Hobbs, Ella Sells

Back Row L-R: Logan Proctor, Ashley Westering, Ann Cornell, Liza Fitch, Braxton Steil, April Naeve, Kaydance Hart, Reese Pederson, Miranda Pohlman

Soard, also a senior, caught 33 balls for 780 yards with nine touchdowns, averaging almost 24 yards per catch.

Classmate Zach Trott returns having rushed for 153 yards while catching six balls for 78 with two total TDs.

Naylan Gulbranson, Brendan Stone, Gabe King, Cole Higgins, Charlie Nattress and Jace Pedersen are other returning starters for the Titans, with Joshua Billmeier, Preston Schumacher, Dawson Beidler, Zakiah Pettigrew, Kolin Folsom, Mike Trott, Caleb Juhl, Camden Blair,

TITANS , Continued from Page 32

Collin Kennebeck, Wyatt Mernka and Noah Hendricks providing more experience.

“We have great tradition, good team speed and overall good depth at most positions,” Case said. “We are young and inexperienced, though, as some positions and pretty average in terms of overall numbers.”

Gulbranson, a captain alongside Nattress, Soard and Trott, was among the leading tacklers a year ago with 39.5 stops including five for loss. Soard and Batta each picked off two passes, while

TITANS AT A GLANCE

SOUTH CENTRAL CALHOUN

Returning letterwinners (21): Gavin Batta, sr.; Zach Trott, sr.; Brock Nattress, sr.; Naylan Gulbranson, sr.; Keegan Soard, sr.; Brendan Stone, sr.; Gabe King, sr.; Joshua Billmeier, sr.; Preston Schumacher, sr.; Dawson Beidler, sr.; Zakiah Pettigrew, sr.; Kolin Folsom, sr.; Mike Trott, jr.; Cole Higgins, jr.; Caleb Juhl, jr.; Camden Blair, jr.; Collin Kennebeck, jr.; Charlie Nattress, soph.; Jace Pedersen, soph.; Wyatt Mernka, soph.; Noah Hendricks, soph.

Top prospects: Joey Lemon, sr.; Josh Desart, sr.; Kaden Dorman, jr.; Grady Isaacs, jr.; Malakye Didelotte, jr.; Christian Hansman, soph.; Hayden Stickrod, fr. 2022 record: The Titans were 4-5 overall and 3-3

in district.

Gulbranson recovered two fumbles.

Along with being in the same district as state contender Southwest Valley, South Central Calhoun will also play West Hancock in a non-district affair this fall.

“I think our district is loaded from top to bottom,” Case said. “We have three teams in the preseason Top10 and we throw in West Hancock.

“It will be a battle every night for a chance to win the district and qualify for the playoffs.”

EAGLES , Continued from Page 38

Canavan, a fullback, had over 300 yards of total offense and a touchdown, while Langfitt added 139 yards rushing and a score.

Coach: Bryan Case has compiled a record of 10435 with South Central Calhoun and is 180-56 overall in his career.

TITAN SCHEDULE

Aug. 25......................................... at Pocahontas Area

Sept. 1 at Southwest Valley

Sept. 8 Riverside

Sept. 15 ACGC

Sept. 22 at IKM-Manning

Sept. 29 West Hancock

Oct. 6 at Panorama

Oct. 13 .......................................................... Earlham

RAIDERS , Continued from Page 50

manageable and competitive for us than it has been the past three years.”

Veit had 98 yards receiving and another 130 yards on the ground with two scores and Julin caught five passes for 110 yards.

“We return a lot of experience,” McCollough said. “Several of these seniors have been playing and starting since they were sophomores.

We have to stay injury-free to have a successful season as we only have 31 players out.”

Karter Ludwig recorded almost 80 tackles with 13.5 coming for loss as a junior with Luke Wernimont in on 48 stops. Several others who made at least 20 tackles are also back on the defensive side of the ball.

Veit and Wernimont each picked off two passes, Veit

Phone: (515) 573-2141

(Ext. 435, 436 or

averaged almost 15 yards per kickoff return and also handled punt return duties.

Julin averaged over 30 yards per punt and Wright made a field goal and was 8-for-8 on extra-point attempts.

East Sac County is looking for its first winning record since going 5-4 in 2018. That was the end of a run that saw them win at least five games four of five seasons.

As a freshman, Schaefer saw a number of snaps at quarterback, as he will replace Tate Richardson. Demuth and Baez will both be tasked with helping protect him as returning members of

the line.

Christopher, a linebacker on defense, recorded 32 tackles a season ago with three for loss. Langfitt picked off three passes and Canavan had two as part of an Eagle Grove unit that forced 18 turnovers in all.

“Drake, Connor and Leelan are the strength of our team,” Willard said. “They will

carry a heavy work load for us. We are looking for big contributions from Hayden out of the quarterback position.

“We’ll have a number of underclassmen stepping into spots with big shoes to fill and they will need to fill them quickly. Also, we don’t have a lot of depth, so that will be an obstacle to overcome.”

WARRIORS , Continued from Page 53

healthy, shore things up defensively at times and find ways to keep scoring.”

Madden will replace Morphew under center, with Laabs and Hagedorn taking over in the backfield. Hagedorn ran for 77 yards.

Guerdet was one of the top receivers a year ago, catching 18 passes for 195 yards and four touchdowns with Priester also catching a TD pass.

Rasch made an impact in the trenches as both a starter on the offensive and defensive line. He finished his junior campaign with 59 tackles including 10.5 for loss and 3.5 sacks.

Carter Martens, Kolton Walter and Brennan Bollinger are also returning starters along the lines.

A first team all-district selection, Rasch will shift to linebacker this year. He has committed to continue his playing career at Morningside University next year.

“Landon is ready for his chance to carry the ball after being a two-time all-district pick,” Ernster said. “We are athletic at multiple positions and I like our overall team speed. We will have decent size up front on both lines.”

WARRIORS AT A GLANCE

NORTH UNION

Returning letterwinners (9): Kaden Laabs, sr.; Talan Priester, sr.; Grady Madden, jr.; Preston Guerdet, sr.; Landon Hagedorn, sr.; Carter Martens, jr.; Kolton Walter, sr.; Brennan Bollinger, jr.; Colin Rasch, sr.

Top prospects: Nick Hanson, jr.; Drew Henderson, soph.; Eli Oleson, jr.; Khael Jones, soph.; Caden Walders, jr.; Lucas Dreyer, jr.; Cole Nicoson, soph.

2022 record: North Union was 5-4 overall and 3-3 in the district.

Coach: Matt Ernster is in his eighth season leading the Warriors after previously coaching at Carroll

Kuemper. He is a graduate of North Kossuth and the University of Northern Iowa.

WARRIOR SCHEDULE

Aug. 25 Okoboji

Sept. 1 Saint Ansgar

Sept. 8 at Belmond-Klemme

Sept. 15 at West Hancock

Sept. 22 ...................................................... Lake Mills

Sept. 29 West Fork

Oct. 6 ..................................... at Mason City Newman

Oct. 13 at Sibley-Ocheyedan

Photo by Angela Hewitt

DRAKE CANAVAN runs the ball for Eagle Grove against South Hamilton last season. Canavan is a senior for the Eagles.