September 30, 2014

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Minnesota State University, Mankato

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TUESDAY

High: 68 Low: 57

Some sun, then clouds

WEDNESDAY

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THURSDAY

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INSIDE:

MAVERICK HOCKEY PREVIEW - PG. 17

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SPORTS

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A&E

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MSU Reporter • 17

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

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Mavericks take top of preseason polls The WCHA Preseason polls are out and the Mavericks found themselves on top before the 2014-2015 season is underway.

DEREK LAMBERT Staff Writer The Minnesota State University, Mankato Maverick men’s hockey team ended last winter with their best season in the program’s division I history, and come into this season with equally high expectations.

In 2013-2014, the Mavs set a program record with 26 wins when they compiled a 26-14-1 record on their way to finishing second in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association, their highest finish in 14 seasons in the conference. They kept rolling into the postseason and won their first Broadmoor Trophy as the WCHA Final Five Tournament champions, giving them an automatic berth to the NCAA tournament.

Though MSU lost to UMassLowell in the first round of the NCAA tournament, it was the first back-to-back NCAA tournament appearance in the program’s division I history, and third overall in that era. They fell short of their goal of making it to the Frozen Four for the first time in program history, but the success they did have is building this

program into a consistent top-20 team.

Looking ahead to this season, the Mavs have to replace last year’s captain and leading goal scorer Johnny McInnis, who finished with 21 on the year. His scoring touch will be missed as he has begun his professional career playing in the Colorado Avalanche minor league system.

But MSU brings back plenty of firepower and some freshmen with high expectations to keep this team rising to the top of college hockey.

On Monday, coaches and media around the WCHA took to voting on the preseason favorite to win the MacNaughton Cup as the regular season champions, as well as voting on preseason individual honors and all-conference teams.

The Mavericks received a lot of recognition in these polls, receiving nine of 10 coaches votes to finish first in the league. Ferris State, last season’s MacNaughton Cup champions, received the only other first place vote.

Head Coach Mike Hastings felt honored to have his team voted as the favorite to win the

conference, but he knew it was just a poll.

“It doesn’t spot us a goal or give us a win,” said Hastings.

Aside from the team as a whole, there were some individuals who received some recognition today during the poll voting.

Senior forward Matt Leitner, the Mavericks’ leading scorer the past three seasons, was the media’s choice for preseason WCHA Player of the Year, while also being named to the preseason All-WCHA team. Teammates Jean-Paul LaFontaine and Zach Palmquist were also named to the preseason All-WCHA team, while freshmen C.J. Franklin and Brad McClure tied in the coach’s poll for preseason WCHA Rookie of the Year.

While the preseason honors may be flattering and show that MSU will again bring a competitive team to the ice, they’ll need to show up and earn it in a tough WCHA conference. But let’s look at what the Mavs have in their lineup that earned them the

MEN’S HOCKEY • Page 22

MSU Reporter Archives Senior Jean-Paul Lafontaine ranked second in the country in power play goals with 14 last season.

Women’s soccer playing the Maverick way in 2014 With eight wins in eight games, the Mavericks have outscored their opponents 25-2 so far this season.

TOMMY WIITA Staff Writer With the 2014 Minnesota State University, Mankato women’s soccer team’s season underway, they have taken-off on the right path.

“We have a lot of depth this season,” head coach Brian Bahl said. “There is so much athleticism and speed on this team.”

Coach Bahl has continued to stress to me that his team plays as one, and there is not one person to single out ever.

“We like to keep everything team oriented, and keep in mind we perform as one,” Bahl said.

Game one saw the Mavericks beating the Southwestern Oklahoma State Bulldogs 1-0 at Southwestern Oklahoma State.

Senior goalkeeper Molly Mc-

Gough and the rest of the Mavs defense pitched the shutout, only having one shot on goal put towards them. The single goal scored in the game was by senior Emily Moris, as she also had a total of three shots on goal. Sophomore Kiana Nickel also had two shots on goal. Junior Emily Erickson, Sophomore Dana Savino, Junior Jessica Bowe, Senior Sydney Temple and Senior Rebecca Pederson each had one shot on goal.

Game two was in Edmond, Okla. was against Central Oklahoma, as the Mavericks earned their second-consecutive shutout against the Broncos, 3-0. Junior Korey Kronforst had a pair of goals to lead the offense. Kron-

WOMEN’S SOCCER • Page 23

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter The Mavericks’ 8-0 record comprises of a 4-0 record at home, 4-0 record on the road and a 5-0 in conference play.

18 • MSU Reporter

Sports

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Second-half surge brings Mavericks to 4-0 record The no. 3 Mavericks scored 28 second-half points to defeat Bemidji State 34-16.

JOHN WALFOORT Staff Writer Minnesota State University, Mankato wins 34-16 over the Bemidji State Beavers.

Things didn’t look good for the Mavericks early in the game as Bemidji scored a field goal and a touchdown in the first quarter to put them ahead 10-0. After that MSU’s offense started to click and scored on a touchdown run of one yard by Nick Pieruccini. The Mavericks took over the game after that, outscoring the Beavers 28-6 in the second half.

Ricky Lloyd led the Mavericks in the air completing 9-15

passes for 200 yards and two touchdowns. He also threw one interception and his longest pass went for 39 yards while. Pieruccini completed 7-10 passes for 82 yards and one touchdown. Both Pieruccini and Lloyd rushed for one touchdown.

Dorian Buford led the Maverick’s with four receptions for 97 yards and two touchdowns.

Kyle Riggot brought down four receptions for 66 yards and Austin Rieder had a long reception of 39 yards, he had a total of three receptions for 63 yards.

The Beavers couldn’t keep up with MSU’s run game as Connor Thomas exploded out of the

back field on 22 attempts he had 118 yards and one touchdown.

Thomas’ longest rush was for 54 yards.

On defense the Maverick’s showed up and did work with Josh Gordon getting eight tackles and three sacks for a loss of 13 yards. Tyler Henderson led the team with 11 tackles, one sacks and three pass deflections.

MSU totaled four turnovers during the game. Rob Myers picked off two passes and Nathan Hancock intercepted the third pass. Justin Otto recovered a fumble forced by Harris Rumeal.

The Mavericks also held Bemidji to 40 rushing yards and only av-

s t w o T w a s U

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter

Running back Connor Thomas (above) rushed 22 times for 118 yards and a m touchdown last Saturday.

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter

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The 4-0 Mavericks are still ranked third in the AFCA poll.

MSU will take on South West Minnesota State for its home-

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MSU Reporter • 19

Sports

Volleyball team adds another weekend sweep After losing to Winona State during the week, the Mavericks retaliated with two victories over this past weekend.

LUKE LONIEN Staff Writer

The Minnesota State University, Mankato volleyball team traveled to North Dakota over the weekend, and was able to bring out two big wins in NSIC play.

The Mavericks started out the weekend with a five-set match against Minot State, then won in straight sets in Bismarck against University of Mary.

The Mavericks started the

Haley Fogarty

match in set one going into extra points, but to do that the Mavericks had to battle back and make some plays. Early in the set, Minot State opened up the set on an impressive 6-2 run, taking an early lead. MSU was able to get

things going after that, settling in and putting up five-straight points to give them a 10-8 lead, and back into the set. Minot State used the help of a 5-2 run, and took a 19-16 lead. MSU needed to play a little catch up, and with kills from Krista Hassing and Courtney Anderson the Mavericks were able to make things interesting, setting the score at 23-22. The Minot State Beavers were one point from a set victory, but they committed backto-back errors and allowed MSU to get back into the set. Going into extra points, the Mavericks put together three-straight points finishing it off with an ace from Jenna McNallan to win the set 29-27.

After an exciting first set, the Mavericks looked to take set number two. MSU jumped out to an 11-6 lead with the help of sixstraight points, looking to be in the driver’s seat. Minot State was able to put together an 8-2 run, taking a 14-13 lead. MSU tied things up at 17 with a Hassing kill, but Minot State put together five points in a row and took a 22-17 lead, and never looked back. Minot used the late run to win set two 25-20.

Set three opened up and it looked like it may go into extra points as things were tied 13

ebrink and Vikolia Meade ended the set with back-to-back kills, 25-22.

The crucial set five was about as close as they come; MSU used a three-point run to edge out a

Haley Doran

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter Alice sat on the mushroom, pondering her fate. “One side will make me grow larger and the other side will make me smaller.”

times, but the end result did not prove to be as good as set one.

With the score tied up at 14, Minot State took an 11-2 run, and ran to a set-three victory 25-16.

MSU needed to take the next two sets to win the match, and they were up to the challenge.

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VOLLEYBALL • Page 21

ATTENTION HUNTERS

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The Mavericks were able to take an early lead, leading 11-9. MSU then used an 8-3 run to extend their lead. A kill from Chandra Honebrink extended their lead to five. Minot State made things interesting using a four-point run to come within one, 23-22. Hon-

9-7 lead. Minot State countered with their own three-point run to take an 11-10 lead. MSU stormed back with a four point run, and then a Honebrink kill ended the match with the Mavericks prevailing 3-2, with a 15-13 win.

Honebrink led the Mavericks with 18 kills, and Hassing added 11 kills of her own. Ellie Van De Steeg led the team with 52 assist. Defensively, the Mavericks were led by Haley Fogarty with 17 digs, followed by 15 from Van De Steeg.

The Mavericks traveled to Bismarck to take on University of Mary, and the Mavericks ended the North Dakota trip with a sweep.

In set number one, MSU took

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20 • MSU Reporter

Sports

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Griak Invitational Review vitational meet this past weekend in Minneapolis.

“The race went alright on Saturday,” head coach Jen Blue said.

“It was hot and humid so the times were a little slower than last year’s when we raced on that course, but I’m content with our The Minnesota State Univer- performances.” sity, Mankato women’s cross Placing 15th, the Mavs were country team competed at the led once again by the senior29th annual 2014 Roy Griak In- freshman duo of Marina Paul and Erin Baker. Paul, coming in at 46th overall, was first for the Mavericks with a time of 23:59, followed by Baker’s time of 24:19, which gave her 61st place. Senior Stephanie Steenhoek came in 25:02, earning her a place at 95th and sophomore Maddi Sjelin coming in 99th ran a time of 25:07 was fourth for the

While the women’s cross country team took 15th at the University of Minnesota, the men’s team followed close to suite with an 11th-place finish.

DENZELL CASTRO-OATS Staff Writer

try team at the Griak meet, they finished 11th, combining a score of 316 points. The Mavs were 15 points outside of Fort Lewis who finished 10th and 24 points behind the ninth-place team Morningside. The 8k competition however was overtaken by Wisconsin-Parkside, who scored 90 points.

The men’s team was led by senior Josiah Swanson, who finished 41st overall with a time of 27:23. Following behind Swanson was junior Matt Longen, who finished 51st at 27:38. Junior Ryan Ness running a time of 27:43 was in at 56th and was third for the Mav team. Freshman Michael Hoff was 59th overall running a time of 27:45 and rounding out the top four spots.

“Overall I think we had a pretty good showing at the Griak Meet,” Hoff said. “Despite it being a very hot and humid day for competition, everyone races under the same conditions. It all comes down to who can run tougher and smarter.”

The weather clearly affected everyone’s performance this weekend and was a factor in the

Josiah Swanson

Photo Courtesy of Minnesota State Athletics

team.

“They are having some good workouts and moving in the right direction,” coach Blue says. “We just need to work on getting everyone healthy and put all the pieces together on the same day.”

As for the men’s cross counStephanie Steenhoek

Griak competition, temperatures

Erin Baker

sat in the comfortable mid 60’s, which is scientifically proven “ideal running weather”. But this past weekend was different. Having to compete in temperatures reaching the high 80’s was a challenge for the Maverick cross teams, but not an unfamiliar one.

Despite the weather, this was a perfect opportunity not only to test the Mavs physically, but mentally as well.

“The Griak course is tough a in itself. It’s a hilly course and it d was pretty hot,” Sjelin said. “And p with a lot of competitive teams, a mental toughness is a key factor in races like this.” e The Women’s cross-country t team is off the next few weekf ends and will race again Oct. 24 d at the Bob Waxlax Invitational a in St. Cloud. The conference meet will follow and is Nov. 8 in 9 Wayne, Neb. t The Men’s team will compete Oct. 18 at the Jim Drew’s invite in La Crosse, Wisc. Following that meet the team will be in Wayne, Neb. for the 2014 NSIC conference championship meet.

competition. At last year’s 2013

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Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Sports

MSU Reporter • 21

FOOTBALL The 4-0 Mavericks are still ranked third in the AFCA poll... SMSU lost to Northern State Saturday 46-43 and has a 1-3 record.” continued from 18

Saturday 43-46 and has a 1-3 s

Justin Otto

record. Even though SMSU lost ,they put up a good fight, Charlie nKern completed 31-43 passes for s298 yard and four touchdowns.

-He did throw three interceptions s a s . s y t

in the game, which could mean big numbers for MSU’s secondary coming into Saturday. Kern was also sacked once during the game. The Maverick’s defensive line has been raking in the sacks the past few weeks so this could mean good news for them.

SMSU had a total of 141 yards rushing and seemed to evenly distribute the ball amongst its running backs. The same goes for receivers; there weren’t any stand out performers during the game receiving. Adam Olson caught six passes for 66 yards and two touchdowns. With the way MSU’s secondary has been playing lately, holding Bemidji State to 264 passing yards and 23-44 in the air, it should be a good game.

The Mavericks should pull the

win out this Saturday for homecoming. Although, they didn’t have a record breaking game against the Beavers, it should be interesting how they fair against SMSU.

Ricky Lloyd

VOLLEYBALL “Finding a way to win is what we have gotten better at most this season, and if we can continue to get better overall that will get easier for us,” Amundson said. continued from 19

h a 3-1 lead early and never looked back. Back-to-back aces by Ant derson extended the lead to 7-4. MSU was able to get back-to-back d points seven times the rest of the match, and rode the quick points to , a 25-17 win. r Set two was a blowout. The Mavericks got a quick 7-1 lead, then extended the lead to 10-4. MSU then used a huge 11-point run, to y take a 21-4 lead, the run started with three kills in row by McNallan, followed by three service aces by Honebrink, and ended with a An4 derson kill. A kill by Hassing ended the blowout with a 25-8 victory, l and complete control of the match leading 2-0. e MSU did not stop after the second match; they jumped out to a n 9-1 lead early in the set. UM used an 8-3 run to get back into the set trailing by only 4. MSU ended the set on a 13-5 run, finishing the e e g n C

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter

match with a sweep. The Mavericks took the final set 25-13.

Anderson led the team on the offensive side of the match, registering 8 kills, while Hassing added in 7 kills of her own. Ellie

Bemidji’s 16 points brings the 2014 total to 29 points that the Mavericks have allowed in four games.

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Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter

The Volleyball team owns a 9-4 overall record with a 5-1 conference record.

Van De Steeg led the Mavericks with 32 assist. Honebrink led the way with eight digs, followed by McNallan and Fogarty who collected 7 digs each respectively.

Coach Dennis Amundson has been impressed with how the team has found ways to win this season.

“We just got back to playing volleyball. We had a tough night on Friday, but we found a way to win. Then on Saturday we were able to get on a role, and just had a lot of fun with it,” Amundson said. “Finding a way to win is what we have we have gotten better at most this season, and if we can continue to get better overall that will get easier for us.”

The Mavericks come back home to the Taylor Center to take on Minnesota Crookston on Friday. They then take on Bemdji State in the Taylor Center on Saturday.

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Sports

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Gardenhire fired after 12 seasons with Twins MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — He was the third base coach who gave Kirby Puckett a high-five to punctuate his winning homer in Game 6 of the 1991 World Series.

He was the trusting candidate who took Minnesota’s managing job when many thought the Twins were about to be contracted in 2002.

He was the affable everyman who presided over the team’s turn-of-the-century renaissance and turned the AL doormat into a six-time division champion.

Ron Gardenhire was just about everything in the 27 years he spent in the Twins organization. But even he couldn’t survive the worst four-year stretch in franchise history.

The Twins fired Gardenhire on Monday, saying it was time for a new voice after his 13-year tenure concluded with 383 losses over the last four seasons.

“The reason for this change, I think it’s safe to say, the last couple years we have not won enough games,” Twins general manager Terry Ryan said.

“That’s what it comes down to.

It’s nothing more, nothing less than that.”

The move was made with one season left on Gardenhire’s contract, ending the second-longest active tenure in the major

title of preseason favorite.

Despite the loss of McInnis, the Mavericks bring back Leitner, who led the Mavs with 45 points last season and logging top minutes on the MSU power play that was fourth best in the nation a year ago. Leitner’s go-to man on the power play last season was LaFontaine, who finished second in the nation with 14 goals on the man advantage last season. These two should combine for a number of power play tallies this season. Though Leitner and LaFontaine are a couple of names Maverick fans expect to put points on the board, they have another emerging star that blossomed in the second half of last season.

Junior Bryce Gervais went on a hot streak towards the end of the season in what was a break out year for the speedy forward.

In his last 15 games, Gervais posted 18 points to finish with 26 on the year, including a third-best 16 goals. With these three and a lineup that has another season of experience under their belt, this could be the most potent offense an MSU team has ever seen.

On the back end, the Mavericks return two senior defenseman in Palmquist and Brett Stern, who will captain the Mavericks this winter. The Mavs also lost two defenseman over the summer as Mat Knoll left the team to return to his Canada and

leagues behind Mike Scioscia of the Angels.

Gardenhire played an integral role in the franchise’s turnaround, guiding the Twins to the playoffs six times in nine seasons from 2002-10. But Gardenhire’s teams only got out of the first round once, and his postseason record was 6-21 with the last win coming in 2004.

The Twins have long been the model of stability in not only baseball but major professional sports, with only two managers over the last 28 years and two general managers over the last 20 seasons.

But all the losing of late became too much to overcome.

Over the last four years, the Twins went 78-148 from Aug. 1 on for an abysmal .345 winning percentage.

“I’m gone, I’m outta here because we didn’t win,” Gardenhire said. “That’s what it gets down to in baseball. That’s what it should get down to. You have to win on the field and these last four years have been tough for all of us.”

The Twins finished this season at 70-92, making Gardenhire just the fourth manager in the game’s history to preside over at least four straight 90-loss seasons with the same team, joining Connie Mack of the Philadelphia Athletics (nine), Zach Taylor of

the St. Louis Browns (four) and his predecessor with the Twins, Tom Kelly (four). Kelly returned for one more season after his streak, and he retired after an 8577 finish in 2001.

“One of the things we hope to get back to here is a winning culture across our organization, and not just with the major leagues,” Twins President Dave St. Peter said, later adding, “That’s clearly one of the goals with this move is to jumpstart that. Not to say that Ron wasn’t capable of that ... but I think we believe very strongly that we’ve gotten away from that in recent years.”

In an era when job security for managers is seemingly measured in months, Gardenhire’s longevity has been truly unique.

The outspoken and fiery Gardenhire quickly became one of the faces of the franchise, as synonymous with the Twins as the interlocking T and C on their caps. He took over for the revered Kelly, who won two World Series championships, just as the organization was starting to regain its footing after years of bad baseball.

“I feel like he’s my brother, not my manager,” said a glassyeyed Ryan, who has known Gardenhire dating to their days together in the New York Mets system in the 1980s.

Ryan spent some time away from the organization this year to get treatment for cancer. He said Monday that a recent physical came back favorable and that he will return to the Twins next season.

Ryan offered Gardenhire a chance to remain in the organization, but Gardenhire doesn’t believe he’s done managing just yet.

“I would have loved to have won a World Series, but that didn’t happen,” Gardenhire said.

“Maybe it’s still to come.”

Gardenhire clashed with some players over the years, but there was an expectation and hope among the players that he would return.

“We as players had a responsibility to the organization, fans, and coaches to win this season,” starting pitcher Phil Hughes tweeted. “We failed.”

Gardenhire joined the organization in 1987 and was added to Kelly’s staff in 1991. His record as Twins manager was 1,0681,039. He won the American League Manager of the Year award in 2010, the last time the Twins not only made the playoffs but had a winning record.

“As good as it gets in my opinion. Comes to the park ready to win each and every day. Kind of a players’ manager,” second

baseman Brian Dozier said last week. “Always in good spirits.

He knows the game better than anybody I’ve been around. I 100 percent want him back.”

The contracts of Gardenhire’sf coaches were expiring, but somea of them could be brought back.o Bench coach Paul Molitor is sureT to be considered for Gardenhire’s replacement, but Ryan’s search will spread outside the organization, too.

“Sometimes people need to hear a different voice,” Gardenhire said. “They need a new face.

I just want this organization to win; I’ll be rooting just like everybody else.”

The run of futility has disillusioned a once-passionate fan base, with attendance in Target Field’s fifth year the lowest for the Twins since 2004.

Owner Jim Pohlad said dwindling attendance had “virtually zero” impact on the decision and they would have brought Gardenhire back next season if Ryan recommended it.

“He connected with me and our family way more than any single person in our entire career as owners of the team,” Pohlad said. “He’s just a special guy.

He’s loved. He’s loved by us. I’ll always remember him as a winner.”

MEN’S HOCKEY continued from 17 finish his schooling, while Jon Jutzi left the team for personal reasons, but stated he will return in spring semester. Knoll played in 11 games last season, often at forward, while Jutzi was a regular, playing in all 41 games last season. Sophomore and alternate captain Carter Foguth and junior Blake Thompson bring size to the blueline, while sophomore Casey Nelson brings a puck moving, offensive flare to the backend.

Despite a very well rounded lineup, between the pipes may be the brightest spot on this Maverick squad. MSU has not one, but

two WCHA Goaltender of the Year award winners. Sophomore goaltender Cole Huggins won the award as a freshman last season after junior Stephon Williams accomplished that same feat the prior season, also as a freshman.

Both are very capable net minders, but Huggins looks to be the starter to begin this season.

Posting a stingy 1.88 goals against average and an impressive .926 save percentage, Huggins led the Mavs to the NCAA tournament after starting the season as a backup to Williams. His six shutouts last season marked

a school record for single season shutouts, and if he remains consistent, the starting job is his to lose.

As a whole, this Maverick team may be the deepest lineup MSU has seen during the division I era, which places some high expectations on the boys from Mankato. They’ll first get to showcase their talent on Sun-

day at the Verizon Wireless Center in downtown Mankato when Trinity Western (British Columbia) comes to town for an exhibition matchup slated for a 5:07 p.m. puck drop.

The regular season begins for the Mavericks in a nonconference series with an old conference opponent at the University of Nebraska-Omaha on Oct. 10.

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Tuesday, September 30, 2014

MSU Reporter • 23

Sports

WOMEN’S SOCCER “We have a lot of depth this season,” head coach Brian Bahl said. “There is so much athleticism and speed on this team.”

Dana Savino scored her first two goals of the season, and Kronforst added another. Both teams were scoreless going into the sec-

continued from 17

forst scored both in the first half, and Bowe scored her first goal of the season in the second half.

The Mavericks outshot the Bron-

cho’s 20-7 and had 11 shots on goal compared to UCO’s two.

The ladies came to Mankato for their first home game of the

season, cruising to another 3-0 win over Concordia-St. Paul.

Molly McGough got her third straight shutout of the season.

Molly McGough

Trevor Cokley • MSU Reporter Over their last four wins, the Mavericks have outscored their opponents 17-2.

ond half, but the Mavericks took over from there.

“This team has a lot more experience than last year, and we are seeing that as the year progresses,” Bahl said.

Then no. 7 Minnesota State had a stunner, as they beat the number 1 seed Grand Valley State 1-0 in a gritty match. The Maverick’s started the season with four shutouts, and this one was an all-around effort by the Mavs. MSU had many scoring chances early, but nothing to show for it. Goalkeeper Molly McGough stood her ground however, and remained solid against scoring chances for GVSU. The Mavericks stepped up the pressure and made things finally happen in the second half when Ki-

ana Nickel made the perfect pass to Korey Kronforst to put MSU up 1-0 in the 82nd minute. It was so far the win of the season for this team, and definitely a confidence booster no doubt.

The Mavericks followed up taking the next 4 games as well, with an 8-1 win over Sioux Falls, 2-0 over Southwest Minnesota State, 4-1 over Bemidji and 3-0 over Minnesota-Crookston.

They have outscored their opponents this season by a whopping tally of 25-2. Their next game is their homecoming game October 4th against MSU Moorhead.

When asked about the teams’ goals, there was no hesitation from head coach Brian Bahl.

“Realistically, we as a team believe in our journey. The journey starts with winning our regional championship, then conference championship and finishing off with a national title.

These girls have grown together as a team, and when you can have that and the skillset they all bring to the table something special comes of it.”

As a team, the Mavs are averaging about three goals a game without allowing any. They only have one penalty against them this season, which shows how mature and disciplined this squad is. Kronforst leads the team with eight goals scored, and Moris leads the team in assists with six.

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Behind the scenes, the magic is real Cast, crew and costumes come together to bring fairytale to life at MSU.

LORIEN MEGILL Staff Writer A Tale as Old as Time comes to Minnesota State Mankato Disney’s Beauty and the Beast opens October 2 in the Ted Paul theatre of the Earley Center for Performing Arts. The Tony Award winning stage version of this Academy Award winning animated film will run for a total of ten shows, showcasing the hard work of a large group of

and Howard Ashman featured in the movie, and additional songs by Menken with lyrics by Tim Rice written especially for the stage production, this show tells the story of Belle, a wellread young girl who dreams of adventure outside of her small town but ends up trading her future to save her father from a horrible beast. Once in her new home she discovers that all is not what it seems as she steps into a world where objects that should

Leigh Jacobson

talented performers, directors, and designers. Filled with the iconic songs by Alan Menken

be inanimate come to life, and books should never be judged by their covers. Leigh Jacobson,

a senior BFA Musical Theatre candidate from Champlin takes on the role of Belle. Jacobson described Belle and why she’s such a beloved character: “One of my favorite traits of Belle is her strength. She is spunky and stands up for herself. I also love how hopeful she is. She sees the bright side in almost every situation she is put into throughout the show.”

Playing Belle is a bit of a daunting task as this princess is an extremely recognizable character. Jacobson acknowledged these challenges saying, “I’ve definitely faced some challenges trying to capture the “classic” Belle and still incorporate my own, unique acting choices.

There is a certain standard that people need to have with a Disney princess, but I also didn’t want to replicate what everyone else done who has ever played Belle. It’s been difficult for me to find that happy medium, but I think I finally have a handle on it.” She appeared last season as “Cosette” in Les Misérables and in the ensemble of The Drowsy Chaperone. She has also performed as “Connie MacKenzie” in A Chorus Line, “Anna” in Spring Awakening and in the ensemble of Legally Blonde. She made her debut as part of Highland Summer Theatre this past summer as “Natalie” in Next to Normal and “Penny Pingleton” in Hairspray.

One of the enchanted objects that Belle encounters in the

Erin Horst

home of the Beast is Lumiere, a most hospitable candlestick who leads the ensemble in “Be Our Guest,” one of the shows most recognizable and high-energy songs. The number features the chorus dressed as plates, napkins, and all manner of household items, who dance and sing their way across the stage while inviting Belle for dinner and a show. Leigh Jacobson said the number was one of her favorite parts: “I love the musical number “Be Our Guest,” because it is such a fun, energetic number with almost the whole cast.”

Ben Stasny, the senior BFA Acting candidate playing Lumi-

ere, says of the song, “My favorite part about the show is singing ‘Be Our Guest,’ it is such an iconic song and I feel honored that I get to be the one to help bring it to life in this production.”

Ben’s previous roles include “Aldolpho” in The Drowsy Chaperone, “Thenardier” in Les Misérables, and “Sir Robin” in Monty Python’s Spamalot.

Costuming plays a huge part in fully transporting the audience into the world of motherly teapots and grandstanding candlesticks. Unlike another grand production, Les Misérables,

BEAUTY • Page 27

26 • MSU Reporter

A&E

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Gotham double take Eberline & Houtsma’s beat on the new Fox prequel series.

MATTHEW EBERLINE Staff Writer I’ll be honest. When I first heard that Fox was developing a TV show set in a pre-Batman Gotham City, I was skeptical. I thought for sure Gotham could offer nothing more than a cheaply crafted, cliché-ridden nightmare. And while the pilot does suffer from a few cringe-worthy moments, ultimately I found it to be a pleasant surprise.

Minor spoilers ahead The story begins with a young cat-burglar and pickpocket, Selina Kyle — played by Cameron Bicondova — who will

one day become the infamous Catwoman. Feeding one of her cats in a dark alleyway, Selina becomes a witness to that pivotal moment in Gotham City’s history — the murder of Bruce Wayne’s parents, Thomas and Martha Wayne. The scene itself is a tense and even brutal depiction of the moment that will forever change young Bruce (David Mazouz), whose terrified scream would give chills to even the most grizzled fans. However, Selina’s presence seems strange, even tacked-on. This scene signifies the transformation that begins inside Bruce, and seeing it from Selina’s perspective

enough to draw in a lot of viewers, the pilot for the series leaves much to be desired. While only one episode in, and not without its charms, Gotham is going to need to step up its game if it wants to keep people tuning in every week.

Picking up right away with the murder of Thomas and Martha Wayne, Gotham follows idealistic, brooding detective Jim Gordon (Ben McKenzie), new to the Gotham police force, as he’s paired with the morally flexible detective Harvey Bullock (Donal Logue) to solve the Wayne murders. By peeking under the surface of this crime, Gordon soon

JAMES HOUTSMA Editor in Chief Fox’s new show Gotham, focusing on the famous fictional home to Batman and the years leading up to his appearance, was a hit before it even debuted.

Headed by Rome showrunner Bruno Heller, the newest Batman adaptation was ordered to series in no time flat and was the focus of a landmark deal with Netflix before even premiering.

The network is clearly showing a lot of confidence that their newest flagship show will be a hit.

While the prospect of seeing more Batman on TV should be

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MSU Reporter • 27

A&E

BEAUTY “I love the musical number “Be Our Guest,” because it is such a fun, energetic number with almost the whole cast.” continued from 25 there is a playfulness and imagination allowed in set design, costuming and rehearsal. Special costumes for the Enchanted Objects are on loan for the show, including the costumes for Mrs. Potts, Cogsworth, plates, car-

aspects of physicality while other body parts are restricted. Lumiere, is a strong example of this as he has candles in place of his hands. Stasny talked about the lack of ability to use his hands in the costume: “I discovered that I

Ben Stasney

pets and a giant cheese grater.

Despite the size of the objects, actors wearing the larger than life pieces still manage to perform ballet and acrobatic moves for the show’s musical numbers.

Many of the actors have to learn how to work within their 9costumes and utilize different

have to make my gestures pretty grandiose in order to point or indicate to things or people. With the assistance of my flashlights, I am now able to highlight (no pun intended) certain words in order to emphasize them like I would if I were gesturing with my normal hands. Actually it

seems stranger using my hands to act than not at this point.” It is costumes such as this that make this show stand out, not only for the extraordinary music, but also for the extraordinary spectacle presented to the audience over the course of the show. Mdm de la Grand Bouche, the opera-singing wardrobe played by Erin Horst, wears a similarly stunning costume. Erin Horst is a first-year MFA Musical Theatre candidate from Vinton, Iowa, making her Minnesota State Mankato debut as Mdm de la Grand Bouche.

Before coming to Mankato, Horst’s favorite past roles include “Cathy” in The Last Five Years at the Opera House in Elkader, IA, “Maggie” in Cat On A Hot Tin Roof at the Grand Opera House in Dubuque and “Jo March” in Little Women with the Loras Players. She is excited about her first show here saying, “The music is beautiful, the characters are a blast, and the set and costumes are stunning. I can’t wait for everyone to see the final product. It’s truly an enchanting production.”

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changed everything, as I expected it would. It’s difficult to move in, and incredibly heavy,

Photos Courtesy of Mike Lagerquist

miss, because she is a giant wardrobe, complete with drawers filled with costumes from her days as an opera star (before she was transformed into a wardrobe of course). The costume presents acting challenges all its own, while also having the potential to increase the character. Like Stasny’s costume, the wardrobe has allowed Horst to explore characterization in new ways. In regard to the scope and intricacy of the costume, she said, “Once the costume came it

but it looks amazing. What I lose in physical characterization I make up with my voice and facial expressions. I’ve been rehearsing this way, so it wasn’t a terrible shock once I put on the real costume. I had to make some adjustments with the way I move around. I don’t have as much arm mobility as I’ve been rehearsing with, but that just makes things more interesting. I think the audience will enjoy it.

It’s a very beautiful costume.”

BEAUTY • Page 31

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A&E

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

I want to ride my bicycle Mankato River Ramble offers local music, autumn scenery and much more.

RAE FRAME A&E Editor Autumn is finally here in Mankato, Minnesota, and with the winter months just around the corner, local cyclists have just a few more weeks to enjoy the area trails and the last biking event of the season to celebrate the outdoors with fellow enthusiasts.

The Mankato River Ramble

offers four beautiful routes in and around Mankato, each offering its own scenic views and locations.

The Minneopa Falls Loop will take riders on a 12-mile, traffic-free route to the Minneopa State Park, returning on the Red Jacket Trail.

The Pie Run is a 26-mile ride that includes 18 miles of trails, leading out to the Rapidan Rest Stop for a delicious slice of

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homemade pie.

The Lake Crystal Loop offers a longer, 42-mile trek on the Red Jacket Trail and downhill on the rustic Judson Hill, The Garden City Hilly HalfCentury is a terrific challenge for ace riders, start out early and take the route out to tiny Garden City.

This “rolling festival of fun” will be featuring local music from Mankato’s best bands plus treats and coffee from Peace Coffee and the Saint Peter Co-Op. The Organic Cowboys , String Theory, and The Fabulous Fatheads will be playing at Land of Memories; Dan Duffy Orchestra will be in full swing at the Minneopa Park rest stop; Bullypulpit Bluegrass Band will be waiting at the Rapidan Dam stop; Lake Crystal will host Raven Moon Rising; and Good Night, Gold Dust will close out the ride at Minnemishinona Falls.

Local destinations on the route include Minneopa State Park, Rapidan Dam, Lake Crystal, Minnemishinona Falls.

Student rates are available and the event now offers free rides to children age 17 and under, see registration and waivers online. Pricing and registration

are available online at BikeRiverRamble.org.

Those looking for volunteer opportunities are encouraged to visit BikeRiverRamble.org for more information.

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October 5 at 8 a.m. at the Land of Memories park just off HWY 169.

With questions, contact the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota 952.882.3180 or visit BikeRiverRamble.org

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Tuesday, September 30, 2014

MSU Reporter • 29

A&E

GOTHAM

“It’s clear from the very first shot of the Batman-less Batman series that this show has serious money behind it. A lot of time and care was put the look of the show, as the sweeping cityscape and grungy back alleys meet somewhere in the middle of Burton’s gothic films and Nolan’s grounded trilogy.” continued from 26

hngn.com

I felt somewhat detached from Bruce’s experience.

Other familiar faces appear as the show progresses, including rookie detective and main protagonist, James Gordon (Ben McKenzie). Gordon’s honest cop mentality ruffles the feathers of his partner, Harvey Bullock (Donal Logue), a corrupt cop who wants nothing to do with the investigation of the Wayne murders. The chemistry between the actors, McKenzie and Logue, works pretty well, and creates a believable partnership between Gordon and Bullock.

Oswald Cobblepot (Robin Lord Taylor) shows up as an underling serving crime boss, Fish Mooney — played masterfully by Jada Pinkett Smith — who operates under the Falcone crime family, led by the ruthless Carmine Falcone (John Doman).

Edward Nygma (Cory Michael Smith) also makes an appearance in a rather cringe-worthy scene, which makes his future transformation into the Riddler glaringly obvious.

Robin Lord Taylor gives a great performance as the young Oswald Cobblepot, who has already garnered the derogatory nickname, “Penguin,” before his rise to power and infamy.

Though he appears to serve his boss, Fish Mooney, with the utmost loyalty, it becomes clear early-on that Cobblepot has higher aspirations.

At times, Gotham’s script feels like it needs a little work, with the occasional clichéd line or over explanatory dialogue.

However, given the amount of world-building the first episode

needs to accomplish in less than an hour, a few rough lines are understandable.

While the pilot episode is a little rough around the edges, Gotham offers an intriguing Several performances and characters stand out early on, too. Logue could very well end up stealing the show from the sullen McKenzie as a more charismatic character. We may just have a great new portrayal of The Penguin, as Robin Lord Taylor plays the iconic villain in his early days as a thug in training as both sycophantic and explosively violent. Jada Pinkett Smith also gets to chew some scenery as mobster and new character Fish Mooney.

If Gotham takes advantage of its better players and continues looking awesome, there’s definitely room to flourish.

What kills things out of the gate is the ridiculous amount of frontloading going in episode one. In the first hour, in addition to the core cast, we’re given foreshadowing to what feels like every Batman character ever. Nods to Poison Ivy, Riddler, The Joker (?) all pop up for no reason. Meanwhile, Selina Kyle/Catwoman and Bruce Wayne both join the main cast, essentially as little kid versions of their grown up selves. It’s hard to imagine there’s a ton of growth on the horizon for either, as the very first scene sees Kyle already in her Catwoman act and young Bruce all but begins training to be Batman by the end.

For further explanation, refer

premise and delivers. The first episode definitely caught my interest and I’m excited to see what else future episodes have in store for the people of Gotham City.

to the Star Wars prequels for an example of why you don’t make little kid versions of any character.

The main draw of Gotham’s story at this point is not the Batman nods, rather the police procedural at play. Surprising, right? If the showrunners can put more focus on that instead of heavy-handedly telegraphing every character in the Batman universe, they could be in good shape going forward.

While they’re at it, they might as well also focus on adjusting some stilted performances and dialogue to make Gotham more than just a routine procedural you’d find on any other station.

In the immediate future, Gotham looks to delve into more of The Penguin’s rise to supercriminality, as well as Bruce’s journey into Batman, Gordon’s struggle to clean up the police department and the emergence of Arkham Asylum as a major institution up for grabs in a growing gang war.

With 15 more episodes lined up, Gotham has its work cut out for it, but thankfully also has it’s strengths to build upon.

“Canada’s Ottowa Valley meets Old-Time Appelachia” April Verch brings Celtic music, traditions to MSU. MANKATO, Minn. – Fiddler/step dancer/singer April Verch performs 7:30 pm Sunday October 12 with her trio, playing traditional and original tunes of French Canadian and Celtic roots music. The Performance Series event takes place in the Elias J. Halling Recital Hall of the Earley Center for Performing Arts, 320 Maywood Ave. Verch is performing in support of her latest album, "Bright Like Gold." Special album guests include Bluegrass Hall of Famer Mac Wiseman, 5-time IBMA banjo player of the year Sammy Shelor, and old-time fiddle master Bruce Molsky.

In the second decade of her career as an internationally touring Canadian fiddler, step dancer and singersongwriter, Verch's music has been described as "Canada's Ottawa Valley meets OldTime Appalachia." The April Verch Band - rounded out by bassist and clawhammer banjo player Cody Walters and guitarist Hayes Griffin - is an energetic, tradition-celebrating outfit, not to mention one that's not soon forgotten when they depart the stage.

Her past has been extremely successful, winning the Canadian Open Old Time

Fiddle Championship while still enrolled in high school.

In addition, she later won the Canadian Grand Masters Fiddling Competition, the only Canadian to win both titles.

In addition, April Verch represented Canada's fiddling tradition by performing in the Opening Ceremonies at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver.

"We make a living playing music that we love and it touches other people," Verch says in a press release. "We feel like we're extremely lucky to do that, but also we work really hard, not just at the music, but at every aspect of our career, to make that happen. That we find a way to make it work, and have had that kind of longevity, that's impressive to me."

Concert admission is $15; $13 for students with a valid MavCard. Discount tickets are available online for University students. Advance purchase is strongly encouraged. Those who wish to purchase tickets online may go to www.mnsu.edu/music. For more information, call the Performance Series office, (507) 389-5549.

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30 • MSU Reporter

A&E

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

I am the walrus Grotesque horror comedy starts out right, then flails.

cruel joke), the Quebecois Clouseau takes the movie beyond farcical into just plain stupid. After that, every tone ramps up to 11 and none of them mix. Audiences in the mood for shock-entertainment, a la Human Centipede, should get something out of the film’s later half. Everyone else might simply feel the need for a shower.

Given the right topic, horror comedies can be amazing.

Tusk started off in that direction, thanks to great buildup, but quickly lost its way when it tried to do anything and everything.

Like the main character, Tusk starts off in good form, sticking to what works, then eventually morphs into a stitched-together blob that can only desperately flail around.

JAMES HOUTSMA Editor in Chief

Do you ever lay awake at night, confused and lost, wondering: is man better than a walrus? Were the Beatles on to something? What happened to Haley Joel Osment?

No, those probably aren’t common concerns but, on the off chance they are, Kevin Smith’s latest horror comedy Tusk should address at least two of those concerns, along with just about every offbeat aspect the kitchen sink could hold.

Tusk is the cautionary story of Wallace (Justin Long). Together with his friend (Osment), he runs a podcast that makes fun of people in internet clips.

Wallace goes to Canada to meet somebody for a story. After plans change, he ends up in the mansion of an old man (Michael Parks) who promises “a lifetime of stories.” What he ends up giving him is loads of sedatives and a radical, skin-slicing makeover to transform Wallace into a human walrus monstrosity. Never trust the creepy old man with the tea.

Smith originally conceived of Tusk during a discussion on his podcast about a fake craigslist listing that promised housing in exchange for the tenant dressing up like a walrus. If that sounds like flimsy concept for a movie, don’t worry, it completely is.

Tusk has some good moments of buildup, shock and humor but Smith throws every trick he can into the film to push things to feature length at the expense of

Reporter Rating

flickeringmyth.com

consistency.

With proper story and editing, the first 40 minutes of Tusk could make a great short horror film in the vein of Tales from the Crypt. There’s a genuine sense of dread as Wallace ventures into rural Canada, approaching his tusk-y fate. Parks, a regular Orson Welles or Vincent Price, hypnotizes with his creepy aura and only gets crazier from there.

At least some moments get a chuckle or two and the finished look of the walrus beast is some-

thing that’s not likely to leave your nightmares any time soon.

This first part, though not without its flaws, is enough to inspire some confidence that a good movie might just appear out of this nuttiness. Then at some point the film just unravels like a junior high FACs class quilt. Correction it’s not just some point, it’s a very notable point.

Up until the halfway point, Tusk overcame its flaccid comedy, forced sentiment and in-

dulgent monologues with some inkling of restraint. Then, in an instant, buildup became grossout shock, long-winded speeches stopped being justified and Guy LaPointe appeared. Played by a renowned character actor who should just stop doing roles like this (it’s supposed to be a surprise, but it’s more just like a

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Tuesday, September 30, 2014

MSU Reporter • 31

A&E

BEAUTY ““Once the costume came it changed ev-

erything, as I expected it would.”” continued from 27

“Whatif”

by Shel Silverstein

The actors’ choices to utilize and work with their costumes rather than working against them will surely heighten the overall experience of the show.

Another one of the enchanted characters audiences will be treated to is the Beast himself. Second-year MFA Musical Theatre candidate Adam Yankowy plays this monstrous figure with a surprisingly soft heart. Yankowy’s Minnesota State Mankato debut was as “Javert” in Les Misérables, for which he earned a KCACTF Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship nomination, (he later appeared as “Duke Frederick the Usurper” in As You Like It and “Feldzieg” in The Drowsy Chaperone). Adam has performed at the Venetian Hotel and Resort in Macau, China and his New York credits include Carnegie Hall Solo Debut with Essential Voices USA and NY Pops, NYGASP’s productions of Ruddigore, The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance at NYC Center, The Town Hall’s Broadway’s Rising Stars and Babes in Toyland at Lincoln Center. He performed regionally in shows including Music Theatre Louisville’s Big and Ocean City Theatre’s Oklahoma!. He also appeared in the national tour of Curious George Live!

Belle’s slightly kooky and completely lovable father Maurice adds both humor and warmth to the show. Michael Sheeks, a second-year MFA Directing candidate, is responsible bringing Maurice to life

in this production. As a father himself, Sheeks felt a connection to the character, saying, “The role of Maurice includes quite a bit of my own history and experience (though, of course, I’ve never lived in a mythical poor provincial town!) The biggest challenge has been trying to find a balance between having him be goofy and eccentric and also being connected to his daughter, Belle.” As a directing student Sheeks is enjoying his experiences on the stage, stating that, “It’s been fun being on the other side of the director’s clipboard for a while.” His previous roles include “Saunders” in Lend Me A Tenor and various characters in The Laramie Project.

Adding a true villain to the show is the arrogant and brash Gaston, played by sophomore BFA Musical Theatre candidate Matthew Stairs in his Minnesota State Mankato debut.

At Casper College in Casper, Wyoming Stairs’ past roles included “Fredrick Egerman” in A Little Night Music, “Judas/ John the Baptist” in Godspell and “Don Lockwood” in Singin’ in the Rain.

The set was designed by MFA student Kate Kanne, whose vision of a pop-up storybook has really brought the story to life on the MSU stage—an excellent approach for translating fairytale to stage. More than 50 students from the Scene Shop theatre class have dedicated their time to the intricate drops and roll-

ing set pieces, but members of the cast have also lent a hand to keep the production on schedule.

The strong cast is led by director Paul J. Hustoles, Chair of the Department of Theatre & Dance, and choreographer Linda Talcott Lee who appeared in the original Broadway production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Tickets are available for $22, with a special price of $19 for senior citizens, youth 16 and under, and groups of 15 or more, and $15 for current Minnesota State students. The performances are at 7:30 on Oct. 2-4 & 9-11, and 2 p.m. on Oct. 4, 5, 11 and 12.

The draw of the show for many, comes from the fantastical elements, Michael Sheeks certainly agreed with this, saying: “For myself, I love the whimsical fun of the fantasy created by the enchanted objects and the idea of living to be welcoming.” And this show is full whimsy, heart, and a delightful score that will be playing pleasantly in your head for days after. Perhaps Erin Horst said it best when she asked, “Who doesn’t love Disney?”

Especially when you get to see a beloved classic tale come to life on the stage in front of you.

This is truly a theatrical experience you do not want to miss.

Last night, while I lay thinking here, some Whatifs crawled inside my ear and pranced and partied all night long and sang their same old Whatif song: Whatif I'm dumb in school?

Whatif they've closed the swimming pool?

Whatif I get beat up?

Whatif there's poison in my cup?

Whatif I start to cry?

Whatif I get sick and die?

Whatif I flunk that test?

Whatif green hair grows on my chest?

Whatif nobody likes me?

Whatif a bolt of lightning

strikes me?

Whatif I don't grow talle?

Whatif my head starts getting smaller?

Whatif the fish won't bite?

Whatif the wind tears up my kite?

Whatif they start a war?

Whatif my parents get divorced?

Whatif the bus is late?

Whatif my teeth don't grow in straight?

Whatif I tear my pants?

Whatif I never learn to dance?

Everything seems well, and then the nighttime Whatifs strike again!

Staff: Campus Pastor Wong, Reverend Roger Knepprath, Mark Probst, Vicar Allen Kirschbaum, RA Kody Green

1506 WARREN STREET • MANKATO • MN (Look for our electronic sign!)

507-345-4511

WWW.BEACONWELS.ORG

Mondays • Wednesdays......................................................... Bible Study Tuesdays...................................................................... Bible Study 11 am Wednesdays.........................................................................Vespers 9 pm Thursdays................................................................... $1 Supper 5:30 pm ..................................................................................Bible Study 4:45 pm

CENTER HOURS: 8am-10pm OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Wednesday, 12-5pm; Thursday 9am-9pm

HELP WANTED

NOTICES

TACO JOHN’S IS NOW HIRING for all shifts. Breakfast, Lunch, and closing shifts available.

Apply at 2112 N. Broad St. or at tacojohns.com 10/9

FREE SHOTOKAN KARATE classes offered Monday 6-8 pm, Tuesday 7-9 pm, Thursday 6-8 pm. Room PH 102. Beginners are welcome. Need not to be a MSU student to join. For info call Brad @507-388-5301 or lostgonzo@gmail.com or search MSU Shotokan on Facebook or Yahoo Groups.

4/30

32 • MSU Reporter

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Tuesday, September 30, 2014

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