LEADOFF LEAD OFF Blooming Prairie | medford | nrHeg | oWaTonna | TriTon
STrong armed
Huskies’ pitching staff among the best in Big 9
SPring SPorTS PreVieW 2012
fresh faCes Blossoms, Tigers enter baseball season with new head coaches.
yoUng aCes Freshmen hope to lead Huskies on the links.
owatonna.com Covering BaseBall, softBall,traCk & field, golf, Boys tennis & laCrosse
PAGE 2
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Lead off 2012
A special project of the Owatonna People’s Press 135 W. Pearl St., Owatonna, MN
Owatonna Huskies
Publisher: Ron Ensley Advertising Director: Debbie Ensley Managing Editor: Jeffrey Jackson
Table of Contents
Page 3: Owatonna golf Page 4: Boys & girls track Page 5: Boys & girls lacrosse
Page 10: Owatonna baseball Page 18: Boys & girls golf Page 19: Baseball and softball
Page 12: Baseball Page 17: Boys & girls track
Page 20: Blooming Prairie & Medford coaches
Medford Tigers
Sports Editor: Ian Stauffer Sports Reporter: Kyle Stevens Photos: Ian Stauffer, Kyle Stevens
Blooming Prairie Awesome Blossoms
Advertising consultants: Luke Brown, Rachael Ebbers, Betty Frost, Diane Gengler, Deb Thiesen
NRHEG Panthers
Ad design: Jenine Kubista, Kelly Kubista, Kerry Lynch, Sue Schuster
Triton Cobras
Cover design: Kate Townsend-Noet Cover photo: Ian Stauffer On the cover: Owatonna senior pitcher Dalton Homeier
Page 9: Baseball Page 11: Boys & girls track Page 14: Boys & girls golf
Page 14: Softball Page 20: Blooming Prairie & Medford coaches
Page 8: Boys & girls golf Page 8: Girls track
Page 13: Baseball & softball Page 16: Boys track
Page 7: Baseball, softball, & boys & girls track Page 8: Boys & girls golf
Schedules
Events Calendar, pages 6 & 15
State Tournament Dates, page 11
Lead Off 2012 is distributed to subscribers and readers of the Owatonna People’s Press at no additional charge. All rights reserved. Copyright 2012
ORTHOPEDIC CARE FOR THE ATHLETE IN YOUR FAMILY
When competition is fierce, we know injuries can happen. When they do, orthopedic care at Mayo Clinic Health System in Owatonna is here for you!
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For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 507-451-1120. 2200 26th Street NW, Owatonna, MN 55060 mayoclinichealthsystem.org / ©2012 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
PAGE 3
The sky’s the limit owatonna golf
Freshmen Sophie Hill and Peter Jones give Owatonna golf a bright future By KYLE STEVENS
kstevens@owatonna.com
OHS freshmen Peter Jones and Sophie Hill have their sights set on qualifying for the Class 3A state tournament in June. (Kyle Stevens/ People’s Press)
OWATONNA — When out-of-towners think of Owatonna High School, wrestling is usually the first sport to come to mind. Some might say football or basketball or cross country. But another sport, one played far away from the high school and in front of few fans if any is making a name for itself thanks to two freshmen. Sophie Hill and Peter Jones have the talent, work ethic and passion for the game of golf to make birdies and bogeys come up in the same sentence as takedowns and touchdowns. Hill, coming off a state tournament berth, has a leg up in the arms race with Jones who hit a rough patch at the end of last season. But the fact that they occupy the same grade at the same school is still something quite unique. “It’s quite amazing, really, that we would have two kids and they both happen to be in that same grade that have that
ability and that skill and that love of the game as what they portray,” boys coach Keith Bangs said. “They’ve worked hard to be where they are. With both of them, I think the ceiling has not been set yet as to how far they can go. It’s just a matter of how much they want to continue to put into it.” Neither Hill nor Jones is a stranger to putting in extra time on the course. “They’re both incredibly hard workers away from the actual playing,” girls coach Tim Hunst said. “They both put in a ton of time. If you show up at the end of practice or the end of a round, you’re going to see Sophie there for a good hour afterward. There’s a reason she’s as good as she is. (It’s the) same thing with Peter. He puts time in and really works on his game, really, when nobody’s looking.” That extra time on the course is occasionally spent together. And it’s then that the two are able to talk about what each goes through. “It’s great to have somebody else that is in your shoes and goes through the same pressures that you do,” Hill said. “We always are asking each other how each other did and just being really encouraging.” But it’s not just talking and playing rounds of golf that gets the focus. Both Hill and Jones work on different aspects of their game, both physical and mental. “I really worked on consistency because last year I was kind of off on that,” Hill said. “And my short game and sand traps. A lot of that.” “I just see it as, do the best you can do,” Jones said. “Some days aren’t the best, but you just have to look past them.” The goals for the season are common ones. Hill said she wants to break 80 and get back to state. Jones said he wants to stay in the 70s and throw in a score in the 60s if possible. He’d also like to make a trip to the state tournament. “To definitely make it to state,” Jones said. “And not just to make it to state and make an appearance, but to
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compete there. “I want to go there and make a name for myself. Just to show that I didn’t just barely qualify and get cut the first day. (To) show that I am here to compete for state.” Considering both are only ninth graders, there is really no visible ceiling. But that doesn’t prevent Hill from making sure that not a day goes by, even during the winter
months, that she isn’t taking the next step toward her limits. “You have to stay in it all through the year,” Hill said, adding that she plays at the golf zone in Shakopee twice a week and was on a course in January. “There was actually snow on the ground,” Hill said. “A friend of mine from Albert Lea came out and we were playing golf in the snow. It was fun.” The real fun is just starting for Hill and Jones as their teams begin another season. Where does it end? That’s to be decided. But don’t be surprised if you hear someone at the grocery store mention two local kids making a run for a state title.
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Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
Owatonna boys track & field OHS senior Bryce Leppert
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Owatonna girls track & field
Numbers could give OHS and edge What happened in 2011? The Huskies finished sixth in the Big 9, but sophomore thrower Kelsey Rohrig qualified for the state individual tournament.
OHS junior Kelsey Rohrig
What you will see in 2012 The Huskies should finish higher in the conference as the team returns experience in nearly every event. A large turn out in numbers should help cover for a few key losses such as Rachel Meyer in the pole vault, Lauren Malo in shot put and discus and Kenzie Shroeder and Caroline Stiles in distance runs. Head coach Ann Christensen, 19th year 2012 Roster Seniors Anna Bastyr, Nikki Botten, Kayla Docken, Brittany Johnson, Kiana Leer, Rachel Monson, Jasmine Moore, Emily Moothart, Tracy Neubauer, Sami Olson, Elise O’Neill, Bailey Possehl, Audrey Sexter, Heather Smith, Taylar Wickman, Freshmen Dan Boubin, Jake Gallagher, Logan Savannah Wunderlich Juniors Hanson, Kurt Haugen, Brady Mikayla Bock, Sirena Brekke, LauHeaney, Jacob Hellevick, Matt Kingland, Zae Lafond, Qahir Lakha, ren Chicos, Monica Hanson, Kylin Lindholm, Jasmine Minett, Kenzie Patrick Lammers, Stephen Leon, Nagel, Mati Oeltjenbruns, Emily Derek Olson, Ryan Stewart, Jacob Queen, Shannon Randall, Kelsey Zabel Rohrig, Molly Russell, Santhya Sali2012 Schedule nas, Erin Spatenka, Madelyn Thein, March 31 at U of M Invite, 9 a.m. Vanessa VanEngelenhoven April 10 Owatonna Co-Ed Relays, Sophomores 4 p.m. Mary Ahlberg, Holly Bloomenrader, April 17 at Rochester Century quad, Hannah Busho, Kyndal Cox, Megan 4:30 p.m. Damitz, Kelsey Deason, Madison April 21 at Stillwater, 9:45 a.m. Eggermont, Kirsten Elstad, Emily April 24 at Winona quad, 4:30 p.m. Emanuelson, Amy Filzen, Jessica April 26 at Lakeville South Invite, Luna, Halea Picha, Anna Redman, 4 p.m. Madelyn Rysavy, Alix Schallau, May 1 at Mankato West tri, 4:30 Kalley Schwab, Nikki Sedivy, Saraj p.m. Ulman, Keyshla Vera-Souchet May 5 at Rochester Mayo Invite, Freshmen 9 a.m. Karin Anderson, Rachel Belina, May 8 Section True Team (at Roch- Tatelyn Blazek, Hayley Block, ester Mayo), TBD Maline Bungum, Mariah Caballero, May 15 vs. Mankato East, Austin, Zuzet Carreon, Maria Chicos, Kath4 p.m. ryn Dufrene, Celese Erickson, BrekMay 25 Big 9 Conference meet (at ken Fukushima, Taylor Gaveske, Rochester Mayo), 12:30 p.m. Amber Holte, Mariah Jorgensen,
Huskies look to repeat as Big 9 champs What happened in 2011? The Huskies won the Big 9 Conference title, and also captured the Section 1AAA True Team championship as well. The Big 9 title was the Huskies’ first in 30 years, and the true team title was the first in school history. Jake Fenske (shot put and discus) and Bryce Leppert (high jump) went to the state individual meet.
What you will see in 2012 Fenske graduated, but Leppert, a senior, is back for another shot at state. Senior Zach Olson narrowly missed a state berth in the shot put as a junior and should form a big one-two punch with sophomore Andrew Stelter in the weight events. Head coach Kevin Stelter, 12th year 2012 Roster Seniors Ben Anderson, Austin Bauer, Bryce Bennett, Riley Collins, Kahlid Diriye,
Jeff Dufrene, Ryan Emanuelson, Max Frasier, David Hanson, Ryan Jensen, Jacob Kearin, David Kraus, Cooper Kruesel, Jack Leon, Bryce Leppert, Chris Olson, Zach Olson, Drew Osmundson, Ricky Pratt, Jacob Paulson, J.B. Rogers, Aaron Stelter, Travis Thamert Juniors Peyton Baker, Caleb Buck, Collin Buck, Kyle Dufrene, Michael Evans, Garrett Harty, Mark Holzerland, Brody Hudson, Joe Duron Little, Cole Martinez, Jonah Noeldner, Cam Peterson, Jonah Remker, Trevor Schwichtenberg, Shad Skala, Nick Thamert, Spencer Versteeg, Jacob Warehime, Will Zimmerman Sophomores Arthur Bartholomew, Brenden Buryska, DJ Chatelaine, Josh Dub, Sam Fenske, Dallas Hegard, Hunter Jirele, Brandon Krogman, Logan Langeland, Jace Martinez, Luke Owens, Pranshu Parmar, Nick Rappe, Preston Smith, Andrew Stelter, Ty Sullivan, Isaac Torres, Chase Wedin, Dylan Westphal
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Koch, Callie McCauley, Tate Peterson 2012 Schedule March 30 at Gustavus Invite, 4 p.m. April 10 Owatonna Co-ed Relays, 4 p.m. April 17 Owatonna quad, 4:30 p.m. April 21 at Austin Invite, TBD April 24 at Albert Lea quad, 4:30 p.m. May 1 at Winona, 4:30 p.m. May 8 Section True Team (at Rochester Mayo), TBD May 16 at Mankato East, 4 p.m. May 25 Big 9 Conference meet (at Rochester Mayo), 12:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
PAGE 5
owatonna girls lacrosse
Numbers will play big role as OHS attempts to continue on success What happened in 2011 The Huskies finished at 8-6 and lost to Lakeville South, 15-10, in the section playoffs. The record was even better against teams from the Big 9 as Owatonna posted a 4-1 record against teams in its own conference. What you will see in 2012 Coach Bill Bernard said the depth of the team is the best it has ever been. But the loss of leading scorer Megan Huseby and shutdown defender Vanessa Brage will be tough to overcome. Some of the offense will be provided by senior Liz Emanuel, who is on place to become the Huskies first 100-goal scorer.
OHS junior Amber Grunwold
Head coach Bill Bernard, 6th year, 34-31 2012 Roster Seniors Liz Berg, Brianne Bernard, Liz Emanuel Juniors Rebekah Brandt, Mallory Davidson, Amber Grunwald, Sami Hofer, Ashley Kniefel, Kassidy Schelling, McKenzie Spatenka Sophomores Tess Heyer, Payton Noble, Paige Radue, Jordyn Williams Freshmen Kayla Kniefel, Krista Kniefel Juniors Luke Ebeling, Gunnar Elstad, Kyle Shaw, Mitch Skelton
Sophomores Ben Gillard, Pete Hanson, Michael Schmitz, Scott Swenson 2012 Schedule April 10 at Holy Angels, 5:30 p.m. April 12 at Hastings, 6 p.m. April 16 vs. Prior Lake, 6:30 p.m. April 19 vs. Rochester Century, 6:30 p.m. April 23 vs. Lakeville South, 6:30 p.m. April 26 at Rochester Mayo, 6:30 p.m. April 28 at Eastview, 3 p.m. May 3 at Rochester JM, 6:30 p.m. May 8 vs. Farmington, 6:30 p.m. May 10 at Rochester Century, 6:30 p.m. May 11 vs. Burnsville, 6 p.m. May 15 at Visitation, 6 p.m. May 17 vs. Rochester Mayo, 6:30 p.m.
owatonna boys lacrosse
Huskies must find offense What happened in 2011 The Huskies limped to a 1-13 record in their fourth season as a varsity sport. Paul Swenson scored a team-high 20 goals, and Jesse Ebeling was second on the squad with 12 points. Matt Ritter played the majority of games in net for the Huskies, posting a .591 save percentage. RItter allowed 106 goals on 259 shots for the season. What you will see in 2012 Ritter, a senior captain, is back in goal for the Huskies after splitting time between goalie and midfield due to injuries and a lack of offense last season. The Huskies will need to find some offense to replace Swenson and Ebeling’s production as both graduated last spring. The Huskies have record numbers out
for the team with more than 50 players out in grades nine through 12. Head coach Scott Seykora, 9th year, 17-38
2012 Roster Seniors Cam Anderson, Joradan Fogarty, Logan Harvey, Derek Meyer, Mitchell Ost, Matt Ritter, Jake Tveite, Alex Whited Juniors Luke Ebeling, Gunnar Elstad, Kyle Shaw, Mitch Skelton Sophomores Ben Gillard, Pete Hanson, Michael Schmitz, Scott Swenson
2012 Schedule April 6 vs. Forest Lake, 7 p.m. April 10 at Lakeville North, 7:30 p.m. April 12 vs. Hastings, 6:30 p.m. April 16 at Rochester Mayo, 8:15 p.m. April 19 at Rochester Century, 6:30 p.m. April 21 at Minneapolis Southwest, 1:30 p.m. April 24 vs. Simley, 7 p.m. April 26 at Holy Family Catholic, 6 p.m. April 30 vs. Robbinsdale Cooper, 7 p.m. May 3 vs. Rochester JM, 6:30 p.m. May 8 at Farmington, 6:30 p.m. May 11 vs. Irondale, 7:30 p.m. May 18 vs. Chaska, 7 p.m.
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EVENTS CALENDAR
PAGE 6
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
April 5 Baseball Albert Lea at Owatonna, 5 p.m. JWP at Medford, 5 p.m. NRHEG at Randolph, 5 p.m. Softball Maple River at Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m. NRHEG at Randolph, 5 p.m. Boys track Medford at PEM, 4:30 p.m. NRHEG at Waseca Invitational, 4:30 p.m. Girls track Medford at PEM, 4:30 p.m. NRHEG at Waseca Invitational, 4:30 p.m. April 6 Boys lacrosse Forest Lake at Owatonna, 7 p.m. April 9 Baseball WEM at NRHEG, 5 p.m. Softball WEM at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m. Boys tennis Northfield at Owatonna, 4 p.m.
April 10 Baseball Triton at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Lyle-Pacelli at Medford, 5 p.m. Girls golf Blooming Prairie at Stewartville Tournament, 1:30 p.m. Boys lacrosse Owatonna at Lakeville North, 7:30 p.m. Girls lacrosse Owatonna at Holy Angels, 5:30 p.m. Softball Faribault at Owatonna, 5 p.m. Waseca at NRHEG, 5 p.m. Triton at Lake City, 5 p.m. Boys track Owatonna Co-Ed Relays, 4 p.m. Medford at Owatonna Co-ed Relays, 4 p.m. Blooming Prairie at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m.
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NRHEG Invitational, 4:30 p.m. Triton at Stewartville Invite, 4 p.m. Girls track Owatonna Co-ed Relays, 4 p.m. Medford at Owatonna Co-ed Relays, 4 p.m. Blooming Prairie at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m. NRHEG Invitational, 4:30 p.m. Triton at Stewartville Invite, 4 p.m.
April 12 Baseball Rochester Mayo at Owatonna, 5 p.m. Blooming Prairie at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 4:30 p.m. Medford at Randolph, 5 p.m. JWP at NRHEG, 5 p.m. WEM at Triton, 5 p.m. Boys Golf Owatonna at Decorah (Iowa), 1 p.m. Blooming Prairie at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m. Girls golf Blooming Prairie at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m. Boys lacrosse Hastings at Owatonna, 6:30 p.m. Girls lacrosse Owatonna at Hastings, 6 p.m. Softball Owatonna at Rochester Century (dh), 4 p.m. Blooming Prairie at Southland, 4:30 p.m. JWP at NRHEG, 5 p.m. Triton at Kasson-Mantorville, 5 p.m. Boys tennis Owatonna at Faribault, 4:30 p.m. Boys track Blooming Prairie at Hayfield, 4:30 p.m. Girls track Blooming Prairie at Hayfield, 4:30 p.m. April 13 Baseball Lake City at Triton (dh), 4:15 p.m.
April 14 Baseball Owatonna at Rochester Century (dh), 3 p.m. Blooming Prairie at Mankato Loyola, 3 p.m. Girls golf Owatonna at Faribault Invite, 9 a.m. Boys tennis Owatonna at Cretin-Derham Hall Invite, 2 p.m. Boys track Medford at Montgomery-Lonsdale, 10 a.m. Girls track Medford at Montgomery-Lonsdale, 10 a.m. Softball Byron at Blooming Prairie, 3 p.m. NRHEG TOurnament, 9 a.m.
April 16 Baseball Blooming Prairie at Byron, 4:30 p.m. WEM at Medford, 5 p.m. Boys lacrosse Owatonna at Rochester Mayo, 8:15 p.m. Girls lacrosse Prior Lake at Owatonna, 6:30 p.m.
Blooming Prairie at Stewartville, 4:30 p.m. NRHEG at USC, 4:30 p.m. Triton at Stewartville Invite, 4 p.m. Girls track Owatonna quad, 4:30 p.m. Blooming Prairie at Stewartville, 4:30 p.m. NRHEG at USC, 4:30 p.m. Triton at Stewartville Invite, 4 p.m.
April 19 Baseball Owatonna at Rochester JM, 5 p.m. Blooming Prairie at JWP, 5 p.m. Mankato Loyola at Medford, 5 p.m. NRHEG at USC, 5 p.m. Rochester Lourdes at Triton, 5 p.m. Boys Golf Owatonna at Alexandria Invite, 9:30 a.m. Blooming Prairie at Stewartville Tournament, 1:30 p.m. Girls golf Owatonna at Red Wing Invite, 12:30 p.m. Boys lacrosse Owatonna at Rochester Century, 6:30 p.m. Girls lacrosse Rochester Century at Owatonna, 6:30 p.m. Softball Owatonna at Mankato West (dh), 4 p.m. Blooming Prairie at JWP, 5 p.m. NRHEG at USC, 4:30 p.m. Boys tennis Owatonna at Rochester Century, 4:30 p.m. Boys track Medford at Triton, 4:30 p.m. Girls track Medford at Triton, 4:30 p.m.
April 17 Baseball Owatonna at Winona, 5 p.m. Medford at Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m. NRHEG at Waseca, 5 p.m. Pine Island at Triton, 5 p.m. Boys golf Blooming Prairie at Bethlehem Academy, 4:30 p.m. Girls golf Blooming Prairie at Bethlehem Academy, 4:30 p.m. Softball Owatonna at Austin, 5 p.m. Blooming Prairie at Mankato Loyola, 5 p.m. April 20 Kenyon-Wanamingo at Triton, 5 p.m. Baseball Boys tennis Maple River at NRHEG, 5 p.m. Albert Lea at Owatonna, 4:30 p.m. Boys golf Boys track Owatonna at Rochester Century Owatonna at Willmar Tournament, quad, 4:30 p.m. 1 p.m.
Girls golf Blooming Prairie at JWP Invite, 1:30 p.m. Softball NRHEG at Maple River, 5 p.m. April 21 Baseball Blooming Prairie at Blue Earth, 10 a.m. Medford at Lyle-Pacelli Tournament, 10 a.m. Triton at Z-M (dh), 1 p.m. Boys golf Owatonna at Willmar Tournament, 9 a.m. Blooming Prairie Invite, 9 a.m. Girls golf Owatonna at Staples-Motley Invite, TBD Boys lacrosse Owatonna at Minneapolis Southwest, 1:30 p.m. Softball Mankato East at Owatonna, noon Blooming Prairie at Maple River Tournament, 11 a.m. Triton at St. Clair Invite, 9 a.m. Boys tennis Owatonna Invite, 10 a.m. Boys track Owatonna at Stillwater, 9:45 a.m. Girls track Owatonna at Austin Invite, TBD April 23 Baseball Blooming Prairie at NRHEG, 5 p.m. Girls lacrosse Lakeville South at Owatonna, 6:30 p.m. Softball Blooming Prairie at NRHEG, 5 p.m. Triton at Stewartville, 5 p.m. April 24 Baseball Mankato West at Owatonna (dh), 4 p.m. USC at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Bethlehem Academy at Medford, 5 p.m. Triton at Cannon Falls, 5 p.m.
Boys golf Blooming Prairie at JWP, 4:30 p.m. Girls golf Owatonna at Rochester Mayo tri, 3:30 p.m. Blooming Prairie at JWP, 4:30 p.m. Boys lacrosse Simley at Owatonna, 7 p.m. Softball USC at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Byron at Triton, 5 p.m. Boys tennis Rochester Mayo at Owatonna, 4:30 p.m. Boys track Owatonna at Winona quad, 4:30 p.m. Medford Invite, 4:30 p.m. Blooming Prairie Invite, 4:30 p.m. NRHEG at Maple River, 4:30 p.m. Girls track Owatonna at Albert Lea quad, 4:30 p.m. Medford Invite, 4:30 p.m. Blooming Prairie Invite, 4:30 p.m. NRHEG at Maple River, 4:30 p.m.
April 26 Baseball Owatonna at Austin, 5 p.m. Blooming Prairie at Randolph, 5 p.m. Schaeffer Academy at Medford, 5 p.m. Boys golf Owatonna at Brainerd Invite, 8:30 a.m. Blooming Prairie at USC, 4:30 p.m. Girls golf Blooming Prairie at USC, 4:30 p.m. Boys lacrosse Owatonna at Holy Family Catholic, 6 p.m. Girls lacrosse Owatonna at Rochester Mayo, 6:30 p.m. Softball Rochester Mayo at Owatonna (dh), 4 p.m. Blooming Prairie at Randolph, 5 p.m. Zumbrota-Mazeppa, 5 p.m.
continued on page 15
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Thursday, April 5, 2012
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
triton track & field
PAGE 7
triton baseball
Bungum leads Cobras on the track New faces to lead Triton on diamond What happened in 2011 Adam Bungum won the section 110-meter hurdles and placed eighth in the state tournament. Bungum also won the 300 hurdles section event.
What happened in 2011 The Cobras, led by Logan Spitzack, finished 8-13, closing the season with a 9-0 loss to Kasson-Mantorville in the Section 2AA playoffs.
Triton senior Adam Bungum
What you will see in 2012 A lot of new faces will popualte Triton’s roster after the graduation of Spitzack and nine other seniors.
What you will see in 2012 With Bungum back, the Cobras boys team should be strong in the hurdles and sprints once again. The girls are another story as the team will field only one senior.
Head coach Mike Ellingson, 3rd year, 14-28 2012 Roster Seniors Sam Kispert
Head coach Bruce Huber, 15th year 2012 Boys Roster Seniors Jack Blaisdell, Adam Bungum, Damian Johnson, Lucas Knutson, James Rowley, Peter Tate Juniors Ayrton Henderson, Gavin Johnson, Grant Klancher, Evan Schaefer, Hunter Thiemann Sophomores Braedon Dostal, Brandon Wright Freshmen Hector Bugarin, Jacob Knutson, Casey Lang, Cameron Marquardt, Ben Scherger, Nick Wanek Eighth graders Cole Bergman, Logan Maas, Dusten Nicklay, Alex Paulson, Adam Vacura Seventh graders Leif Bungum, Rene Cortez, Devin Melder, Nick Simonette, Jordan Warner 2012 Girls Roster Seniors Abby Buehler Juniors Alex Buckingham, Hannah Furuyama, Abby Nerenhausen, Paige Wanek Sophomores Alexis Johnson, Lalitwan Tekhuad Freshmen Elena Aguilar, Jocelyn Austin, Katy Erdmann, Arieanna Hendrickson, Gretchen Keller, Tyra Petersohn, Haley Redican, Mallory Schley, Brooke Sexton, Karissa Wright, Piper Yankowiak
Juniors Justin Erdmann, Brock Franko, Alex Head, Zach Knudson, Cody Schaefer, Colton Thompson Sophomores Alex Hoberg, Evan McNeilus, Bradley Myers Freshmen Kyle Corteau, Jordan Deno, Leyenrique Ortiz, Zach Otto
2012 Schedule April 2 vs. Medford, 4:30 p.m. April 10 at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. April 12 vs. WEM, 5 p.m. April 13 vs. Lake City (dh), 4:15 p.m. April 17 vs. Pine Island, 5 p.m.
April 19 vs. Rochester Lourdes, 5 p.m. April 21 at Zumbrota-Mazeppa (dh), 1 p.m. April 24 at Cannon Falls, 5 p.m. April 27 vs. Kenyon-Wanamingo, 5 p.m. May 1 at Bethlehem Academy, 4:30 p.m. May 3 at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 5 p.m. May 8 at Goodhue (dh), 3:45 p.m. May 11vs. Cannon Falls, 5 p.m. May 15 at Pine Island, 5 p.m. May 18 at Kasson-Mantorville, 5 p.m. May 19 vs. Byron, 11 a.m. May 22 at Hayfield, 5 p.m.
triton softball
Pitching must carry Cobras season
What happened in 2011 Triton finished 6-11 overall and 3-9 in a loaded HVL and lost in the Section 2AA playoffs to Blue Earth Area. What you will see in 2012 The Cobras graduated five players and must find replacements for them. Triton does move back to Section 1AA this season, but will have to contend with two-time defending section champion Zumbrota-Mazeppa. Head coach Brent Haala, 10th year
Eighth graders Holly Phillips, McKenna Rubin, Kristin Smith Seventh graders Michaela Bennerotte, Madison Boe, Kennedy Chicos, Courtney Dohrmann, Ashley Gilbertson, Alize Johnson, Mariah Lang, Larissa Lumsden, Greta Rhodes, Hayden Rubin, Katie Scherger, McKenna Schouweiler, Baihley Thiemann
2012 Schedule April 10 at Stewartville Invite, 4 p.m. April 17 at Stewartville Invite, 4 p.m. April 19 Triton Invite, 4:30 p.m. April 24 at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. April 26 at Lake City Invite, 4:15 p.m. May 1 at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. May 3 at Byron Invite, 4:30 p.m. May 8 True Team (at R-P), 3 p.m. May 18 Triton Invite, 4:30 p.m.
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2012 Roster Seniors Skyler Hortop, Autumn Jensen, Liz Kramer Juniors Tiffany Arnold, Olivia Jensen, Mariah Maas, Ashley Thaden Sophomores Amber Arnold, Katie Blaisdell, Brittany Remold, Haley Staffon Freshmen Katie Rosenau 2012 Schedule April 10 at Lake City, 5 p.m.
Triton sophomore Haley Staffon April 12 at Kasson-Mantorville, 5 p.m. April 17 vs. Kenyon-Wanamingo, 5 p.m. April 21 at St. Clair Invite, 9 a.m. April 23 at Stewartville, 5 p.m. April 24 vs. Byron, 5 p.m. April 26 vs. Zumbrota-Mazeppa, 5 p.m. April 30 at Rochester Lourdes, 5 p.m.
May 7 at Winona Cotter, 5 p.m. May 8 at WEM, 5 p.m. May 10 vs. Bethlehem Academy, 4:30 p.m. May 11 vs. Goodhue, 5 p.m. May 15 vs. La Crescent, 5 p.m. May 17 vs. Randolph, 4:30 p.m. May 18 vs. Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m.
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PAGE 8
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
nrheg girls track & field
Thursday, April 5, 2012
NRHEG golf
NRHEG girls return two section qualifiers, boys need more depth What happened in 2011 Then-sophomores Maddy Reed and Brina Bergland shot matching 107s at sub-sections to advance to the Section 2AA Meet, while the Panther girls finished sixth as a team at sub-sections. On the boys side, Sam Grothem led the Panthers at sub-sections with an 87 and the boys team finished seventh. The girls finished the season 3-9, while the boys were 7-3. What you will see in 2012 Reed and Bergland are both back to lead the Panther girls, as is senior Michaela Hanson, who was also on last year’s section team. Grothem is the best returning boys player. Brad Root
Head coach
NRHEG junior Maddie Reed
Sam Nafe Freshmen
Boys golf Seniors Sam Grothem, Spencer Hanna,
Jake Langlie, Cole Lenort, Macoy Schwierjohn
Girls golf Seniors Michaela Hansen, Lexi Wayne Juniors Brina Bergland, Brenna Hagen, Maddie Reed
triton golf
THS girls lack varsity golf experience
NRHEG freshman Carlie Wagner
Wagner eyes return to state What happened in 2011 Carlie Wagner leaped her way to a fifth-place finish in the girls Class 1A high jump last year. Wagner was nearly left out of the state tournament after missing two sectionfinal jumps at 5 feet, 2 inches. But Wagner cleared 5-3 in her final attempt to pass the state standard. What you will see in 2012 Wagner will return to take aim
at another state tournament appearance, follwing on the heels of the Panthers’ run to the girls state basketball tournament. Head coach Duane Ferber 2012 Schedule March 31 at Mankato State Invite, 10 a.m.
What happened in 2011 Andre Joyce, Jaden Thiemann and Zach Otto were all named to the boys All-HVL team and qualified for the section meet. What you will see in 2012 Joyce, Thiemann and Otto all return, but the girls team is without a single 2011 section qualifier.
April 3 NRHEG Invitational, 4:30 p.m. April 5 at Waseca Invitational, 4:30 p.m. Head coach April 10 NRHEG Invitational, 4:30 Don Henderson, 22nd year p.m. April 17 at USC, 4:30 p.m. Boys golf April 24 at Maple River, 4:30 p.m. Seniors April 27 at Blue Earth, 4:30 p.m. Andre Joyce, Dylan Timmerman Juniors May 1 at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Edgar Barajas, Caleb Bartel, JonaMay 8 at Maple River, 4:30 p.m.
Good Luck To All Area Athletes!
thon Keller, Tanner Murphy, Blake Randall, Joe Rislov Freshmen Derek Coughlin, Alex Finne, Trent Maloney, Zach Otto, Preston Pflaum Eighth graders Blazer Blake, Jack Crowson, Ethan Otterbein, Walker Stanley, Jaden Thiemann, Jamison Vondersitt Girls golf Seniors Rachel Welsh Juniors Miranda DeBus, Devin SchallertThomas, Heather Timm Sophomores Alexis Bryngelson
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Thursday, April 5, 2012
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
PAGE 9
blooming prairie baseball
Awesome Blossoms expect success in 2012 What happened in 2011 The Awesome Blossoms finished 6-13. John Rumpza, then only an eighth grader, hit .313 while posting a 2.81 ERA. Luke Hueman, an all-area pick last year, hit .362 as the Blossoms lead off hitter. Ryan McCabe (.288, 6 RBIs) and Isaiah Toquam (.291, 6 RBIs) also contributed to the offense. What you will see in 2012 Seven seniors will join seven sophomores to lead the Blossoms attack this season. Senior pitcher Luc Zellmer is out for the season after shoulder surgery, but Rumpza should pick up some of that load. Hueman, McCabe and Toquam all experienced success on the football field and basketball court, lending a kind of leadership that can only come from winning. Head coach Paul Peterson, 1st year 2012 Roster Seniors Tyler Anderson, Jon Kraling, Luke Hueman, Ryan McCabe, Dylan Srsen, Frank Suazo, Isaiah Toquam Juniors Jimmy Mans
Sophomores Ryan Doerhoefer, Weston Fibiger, Phil Ramsey, Zachary Reynolds, Hunter Rudlong, Brett Wacek, Brett Worke Freshmen John Rumpza, Scott Romeo, Sam Swenson 2012 Schedule April 10 vs. Triton, 4:30 p.m. April 12 at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 4:30 p.m. April 14 at Mankato Loyola, 3 p.m. April 16 at Byron, 4:30 p.m. April 17 vs. Medford, 5 p.m. April 19 at JWP, 5 p.m. April 21 at Blue Earth, 10 a.m. April 23 at NRHEG, 5 p.m. April 24 vs. USC, 4:30 p.m. April 26 at Randolph, 5 p.m. April 30 vs. WEM, 5 p.m. May 1 vs. Hayfield, 4:30 p.m. May 3 at Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. May 10 vs. JWP, 5 p.m. May 12 vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 10 a.m. May 15 vs. NRHEG, 5 p.m. May 17 at USC, 5 p.m. May 22 vs. Alden-Conger, 4:30 p.m. May 24 vs. Goodhue, 5 p.m.
BPHS senior Jon Kraling
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PAGE 10
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
Strong Armed
Owatonna’s pitching staff gives Huskies a chance to return to top of Big Nine By IAN STAUFFER
istauffer@owatonna.com
OWATONNA — Dalton Homeier walked on to a varsity mound for the first time on April 13, 2010. Seven innings later, every coach in the Big Nine Conference knew his name. That will happen when you throw a four-hit shutout in your first career start. Two years later, the 6-foot-3 left-hander is entering his senior season and is expected to be one of the best pitchers in the conference and anchor one of the best pitching staffs perhaps in all of Class 3A. “Our pitching is our team’s biggest strength with three starters that return to the staff,” OHS coach Tate Cummins said. “Each of the three provides something a little bit different. Dalton has the best command, experience and heads into the season as
the top pitcher in the Big Nine.” In addition to Homeier, a twotime all-area pick who went 5-3 with a 2.94 ERA and 49 strikeouts in 50 innings last year, Owatonna returns senior righty Cody Olson and junior southpaw Jordan Howe. Like Homeier two years ago, Olson turned out to be a very pleasant surprise for the Huskies last season. Three times Olson pitched the second game of a doubleheader and saved the day for Owatonna. In two weeks, Olson won starts against Albert L e a , Rochester Mayo and Rochester Centur y after Owatonna lost the opening game of the twinbill. “I didn’t really see it coming,” said Olson, who finished the year 4-1 with a 1.21 ERA and 18 Ks in 29 innings. “I knew I had it in me, but it still kind of came as a surprise.”
Thursday, April 5, 2012
owatonna baseball
Owatonna pitchers (from left) Colton Schock, Cody Olson, Dalton Homeier and Jordan Howe are expecting to lead the Huskies back to the top of the Big Nine standings this spring. (Ian Stauffer/People’s Press)
Olson didn’t pitch much in his freshman and sophomore seasons, but he did see the mound the summer before his junior season while playing for Cummins on the VFW team. He pitched well enough there to earn Cummins’ trust the following spring, but even the coach didn’t expect what he got. “We knew his ball could run and that he’d throw strikes, but we had no idea,” Cummins said. “He beat four quality teams when it counted last year. That was a great surprise.” Howe might be the most powerful pitcher on the staff. He struck out 16 batters in 28 2-3 innings last year and finished with a 2-2 record and a 2.44 ERA. He struggled with command at times in both the varsity and legion seasons, but he was able to get outs when they were needed for the most part. “Jordan should be good coming back,” Homeier said. “He’s got experience and he did really well at the end of the season.” The newcomer to the pitching staff is junior Colton Schock. While he will see his first varsity action this season, Schock is not new to the varsity level. He played for the Post 77 squad last summer and was a regular on the mound
there. He also started playing varsity football two years ago and started the entire season at quarterback last fall. “The sky is the limit for Colton, but he needs to get comfortable and get some innings underneath his belt,” Cummins said. “He’s been very successful at the VFW and B-squad levels. He’s another pitcher, a right arm, that is very capable of having a big year.” With those four pitchers in place, Owatonna seems to be in great shape going into the season. “It’s good knowing we have four solid pitchers,” Homeier said. “You can get through the season with four solid pitchers. Plus we have some other guys who can step up and throw innings for us if we get in trouble, but I don’t think we will this year.” Even last year Homeier was looked at as Owatonna’s ace, and he often took the mound against the best opponents in the biggest games. He will fill that same role this year, a spot he said he is excited and ready for. “It’s a fun role to be in,” he said. “I know I have to bring my ‘A’ game every time and just play how I can.” While Olson broke out as a starter last year, he might also see
time as a closer this season thanks to his side-arm pitching style. There is little in baseball more difficult than adjusting to a righthanded, side-arm junk baller after seeing a hard-throwing lefty for five or six innings. “Cody brings a unique delivery and can throw up to four pitches for strikes,” Cummins said. “His ball has great movement. He might be the key to the staff. He will be used as a starter and also someone that can close out games. He loves the big game and wants to have the ball when the game is on the line.” Howe’s biggest asset is his fastball, which Cummins said may be the best on the staff. “Jordan has tremendous upside,” the coach
added. “He’s a big strong kid. He could definitely be that junior that we’re really looking for to make that step. If we can get (Homeier, Howe and Olson) going, we should be in a lot of games.” The Huskies failed to reach the Section 1AAA Final Four last season for the first time in four seasons. Owatonna won its f irst-round playoff game against Faribault, but then lost to Red Wing in the second round. The Huskies finished the season 15-7 and took fourth place in a parity-filled Big Nine. Rochester JM won the conference with a 14-4 record, Albert Lea and Century tied for second one game back, and Owatonna was two games back at 12-6.
See HUSKIES on 16
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
PAGE 11
State Tournaments BP boys welcome new coach as BLooming prairie track
girls look to senior leadership
Owatonna senior Bryce Leppert
What happened in 2011 The BP boys finished fourth in the Gopher Conference and the section. The Blossoms girls team finished seventh at the conference meet, led by senior Kristin Hagen in the 100 and 300 hurdles where she took fourth and ninth respectively.
BP senior Adam Driessen
What you will see in 2012 The boys introduced a new coach, Rhett McDonald, after having Jake Jocobusse preside over the program for 24 years. The girls return four seniors and 10 letter winners for coach Kari Bottin’s third season. Head coach Boys: Rhett McDonald, 1st year Girls: Kari Bottin, 3rd year
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Sophomores Kendra Boecker, Russia Smith, Liz Willert Freshmen Tylynn Ackerman, Sevin Cremeans, 2012 Girls Roster Alyssa Gonzales, Alanna Grant, Seniors Arrica Imm, Macaela Jensen, CourtCortney Easton, Aliza Mainard, ney Lee, Kelli Wallace, Lyric Weise Lyndsay Pryor, DaVyll Smith, KierEighth graders stin Wencl 1) change Golf Titleist Seminar back to: Free Golf Seminar Hannah Ahrens, Skylar Lynch Juniors 2) change the last line of theMin seminar description to Seventh graders Yi Chen, Marissa Jensen, to: Call 451-7888 Marissa Larson, Alison Pryor, Leah Janelle Morem, Arlyne Soto, Hanreserve your spot Schiefert nah Sunde
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2012 Schedule March 27 at Mankato Loyola, 6:30 p.m. April 10 at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m. April 12 at Hayfield, 4:30 p.m. April 17 at Stewartville, 4:30 p.m. April 24 Blooming Prairie Invite, 4:30 p.m. April 26 at Grand Meadow, 4:30 p.m. May 1 Blooming Prairie Invite, 4:30 p.m. May 8 at Rushford-Peterson, 3 p.m.
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PAGE 12
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
Thursday, April 5, 2012
medford baseball Medford junior Kade Cronin
Tigers enter season with new coach, workout routine What happened in 2011 The Tigers finished 5-13 in Dennis Whitman’s final year at the helm. Kade Cronin struck out 59 batters in 45 innings pitched, but also posted a 5.56 ERA. What you will see in 2012 New coach Jon Chappuis has placed an emphasis on conditioning. Chappuis has his players running and lifting weights all while going through a normal practice. Cronin is back for his junior year along with seniors Andrew Keller and Lee Obernolte. Six other juniors and six underclassmen fill out the roster. Head coach Jon Chappuis, 1st year 2012 Roster Seniors Andrew Keller, Lee Obernolte Juniors Cody Borwege, Brett Bulson, Derek Butterfield, Brandon Church, Kade Cronin, Zach Johnson, Jake Vaupel Sophomores Isaac Holm, Tyler Keller, Corbin Lund, Aaron Snyder
Freshmen AJ Chappuis, Luke Peterson 2012 Schedule April 5 vs. JWP, 5 p.m. April 10 vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 5 p.m. April 12 at Randolph, 5 p.m. April 16 vs. WEM, 5 p.m. April 17 at Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m. April 19 vs. Mankato Loyola, 5 p.m. April 21 at Lyle-Pacelli Tournament, 10 a.m. April 24 vs. Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. April 26 vs. Schaeffer Academy, 5 p.m. April 30 at USC, 5 p.m. May 3 vs. NRHEG, 5 p.m. May 7 vs. Randolph, 5 p.m. May 8 at WEM, 5 p.m. May 10 at Mankato Loyola, 4:30 p.m. May 12 Medford Tournament, 10 a.m. May 17 at Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. May 18 vs. Cleveland, 5 p.m.
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Thursday, April 5, 2012
OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS
PAGE 13
NRHEG SOFTBALL
Key losses could hurt NRHEG What happened in 2011 The Panthers finished 10-9 overall and 6-5 in the Gopher Conference. NRHEG was led by pitcher Jade Schultz and all-conference third baseman Harlee Vokoun.
What you will see in 2012 Schultz is back for her sophomore year, but Vokoun chose gainful employment over softball. In addition to Steph Root, another job-loss, the Panthers graduated three other players. One addition should pay dividends, however, as senior Anna Schlaak chose softball over track,
which she ran as a junior.
Head coach Wendy Schultz, 15th year, 159-109 2012 Roster Seniors Mandy Deml, Tori Raimann, Anna Schlaak Juniors Tara Simon, Makenna Thiele Sophomores Stormi Hagen, Hannah Lundberg, Jade Schultz, Morgan Staloch Freshmen Kelli Harrington, Anna Stork
2012 Schedule April 5 at Randolph, 5 p.m. April 9 vs. WEM, 4:30 p.m. April 10 vs. Waseca, 5 p.m. April 12 vs. JWP, 5 p.m. April 14 NRHEG Tournament, 9 a.m. April 19 at USC, 4:30 p.m. April 20 at Maple River, 5 p.m. April 23 vs. Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m. April 27 at Bethlehem Aca., 5 p.m. April 30 vs. Manakto Loyola, 5 p.m. May 7 at JWP, 5 p.m. May 10 vs. USC, 5p.m. May 11 vs. NRHEG, 5 p.m. May 15 at Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m. May 17 at Byron, 5 p.m.
NRHEG BASEBALL
Senior-laden Panthers expect wins What happened in 2011 The Panthers closed the regular season at 5-12, but won their first two playoff games before bowing out of the season with a 4-3 loss to USC. Sam Lundberg hit .450 to pace the offense, while four others hit .300 or better.
NRHEG junior Tara Simon
NRHEG coach Jeff Reese
What you will see in 2012 Along with Lundberg, a senior, the Panthers return the three other offensive weapons from a year ago. David Lassahn, Jake Staloch, Lucas Meyer and Carter Tollefson, also all seniors, hope to get the Panthers deeper into the playoffs. Head coach Jeff Reese, 35th year, 435-244 2012 Roster Seniors Mitch Akemann, Matt Dahle, David Lassahn, Sam Lundberg, Lucas Meyer, Eric Sorenson, Tyler Sorenson, Jake Staloch, Carter Tollefson Juniors Brad Claycomb, Sam Jewette, Nick Mangskau, Casey Rosacker, Riley Schue, Johnny White
2012 Schedule April 5 at Randolph, 5 p.m. April 9 vs. WEM, 5 p.m. April 12 vs. JWP, 5 p.m. April 17 at Waseca, 5 p.m. April 19 at USC, 5 p.m. April 20 vs. Maple River, 5 p.m. April 23 vs. Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m.
April 27 at Bethlehem Academy, April 30 vs. Mankato Loyola, 5 p.m. May 3 at Medford, 5 p.m. May 7 at JWP, 5 p.m. May 10 at NRHEG, 5 p.m. May 15 vs. NRHEG, 5 p.m.
GOOD LUCK TO ALL TEAMS!
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PAGE 14
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
Thursday, April 5, 2012
blooming prairie Softball
Same faces, new places hope to continue Awesome tradition What happened in 2011 The Awesome Blossoms finished undefeated in the Gopher Conference at 11-0, and 21-3 overall. Blooming Prairie advanced to the state tournament for the secondstraight season. At state, the Blossoms won their first-ever state tournament game en route to a fourth-place finish.
What you will see in 2012 All-everything pitcher Erica Manske graduated, leaving a gaping hole in the circle. Shelbi Swenson will take on the role of filling Manske’s shoes, but this team should not have any problems offensively with four returning all-conference players.
Head coach Ali Mach, 9th year, 136-58
2012 Roster Seniors Savannah Allard, Tricia DeBoer, Taylor Farr, Hunter Henderson, Kelsey Kubista, Julia Manges, Kelli Naatz, Kelly Wolf Juniors Sam Ivers, Jenna Krell, Shelbi Swenson Sophomores Mariah Holland, Delaney Nelson 2012 Schedule April 5 vs. Maple River, 5 p.m. April 12 at Southland, 4:30 p.m.
April 14 vs. Byron, 3 p.m. April 17 at Mankato Loyola, 5 p.m. April 19 at JWP, 5 p.m. April 21 at Maple River Tournament, 11 a.m. April 23 Prairie at NRHEG, 5 p.m. April 24 vs. USC, 4:30 p.m. April 26 at Randolph, 5 p.m. April 30 vs. WEM, 4:30 p.m. May 1 vs. Hayfield, 4:30 p.m. May 3 at Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. May 10 vs. JWP, 5 p.m. May 12 Blooming Prairie Invite, 10 a.m. May 15 vs. NRHEG, 5 p.m. May 17 at USC, 4:30 p.m. May 18 at Triton, 4:30 p.m.
blooming prairie girls golf
Young but experienced Blossoms hope to qualify for section tourney What happened in 2011 The Blossoms ran rough-shod over the Gopher Conference, posting a 6-1 league mark in nine-hole rounds. Blooming Prairie also held its own in full matches, taking second, fourth, fifth and eighth in four 18-hole rounds. The Blossoms finished fourth in the Sub-section 1A West tournament, failing to qualify for the Section 1A tournament. Anna Noble led the team with a 107.7 average in 18-hole rounds. Jenna Johnson’s 51.0 average led the Blossoms in nine-hole matches. What you will see in 2012 Noble, a sophomore, is back, but Johnson’s graduation shouldn’t sting too much. Sophomores Sydney Basness, Katelyn Eischens
and Morgan Hagen all played significantly on varsity last season and freshman Carissa Easton played in a couple of short rounds in 2011. Coach Erick Vigeland is hoping some of Sorenson’s experience rubs off on some of the younger girls as the team sets its sights on a sub-section victory and an individual state entrant. Head coach Erik Vigeland 2012 Roster Seniors Maggie Sorenson Juniors Paige Johnson Sophomores Sydney Basness, Katelyn Eischens, Morgan Hagen, Anna Noble DLR 37331
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Freshmen Carissa Easton 2012 Schedule April 10 at Stewartville Tournament, 1:30 p.m. April 12 at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m. April 17 Blooming Prairie at Bethlehem Academy, 4:30 p.m. April 20 at JWP Invite, 1:30 p.m. April 24 at JWP, 4:30 p.m. April 26 at USC, 4:30 p.m. April 30 vs. Bethlehem Academy, 4:30 p.m. May 1 at Triton Tournament, 1:30 p.m. May 8 vs. NRHEG, USC, 4:30 p.m. May 15 vs. JWP, 4:30 p.m. May 29 at Southland, 9 a.m.
BP senior Tricia DeBoer
blooming prairie boys golf
After strong finish to 2011, Blossoms aim high in 2012 What happened in 2011 Blooming Prairie finished 1-7 in Gopher Conference play, defeating JWP for its only conference win. The Blossoms did place second at three tournaments including the Sub-section 1A West meet at Cedar River Country Club. The Blossoms moved on and took fourth place in the Section 1A meet at The Jewel in Lake City. Dylan Hatch led the Blossoms with an 87.8 scoring average in 18-hole rounds. Pat Jones led the squad in nine-hole matches with an average score of 43.7. What you will see in 2012 Hatch graduated , but Jones is back
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to lead the team as it’s only senior. Junior CJ Hein is also back, as are sophomores Victor Peterson and Tommy Wanous. Head coach Erick Vigeland 2012 Roster Seniors Patrick Jones Juniors CJ Hein, Jason Jirele Sophomores Cody Doerhoefer, Victor Peterson, Tommy Wanous Seventh graders Tommy Braaten
2012 Schedule April 12 at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m. April 17 at Bethlehem Academy, 4:30 p.m. April 19 at Stewartville Tournament, 1:30 p.m. April 21 Blooming Prairie Invite, 9 a.m. April 24 at JWP, 4:30 p.m. April 26 at USC, 4:30 p.m. April 27 at JWP Invite, 1:30 p.m. April 30 vs. Bethlehem Academy, 4:30 p.m. May 8 vs. NRHEG, USC, 4:30 p.m. May 15 vs. JWP, 4:30 p.m. May 29 at Southland, 9 a.m.
Thursday, April 5, 2012 continued from page 6 Boys tennis Owatonna at Winona, 4:30 p.m. Boys track Owatonna at Lakeville South Invite, 4 p.m. Blooming Prairie at Grand Meadow, 4:30 p.m. Triton at Lake City Invite, 4:15 p.m. Girls track Blooming Prairie at Grand Meadow, 4:30 p.m. Triton at Lake City Invite, 4:15 p.m. April 27 Baseball NRHEG at Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. Kenyon-Wanamingo at Triton, 5 p.m. Boys golf Mankato East and Rochester Mayo at Owatonna, 2:30 p.m. Blooming Prairie at JWP Invite, 1:30 p.m. Softball Owatonna at Austin Tournament, 5 p.m. NRHEG at Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. Boys tennis Waseca at Owatonna, 4:30 p.m. Boys track NRHEG at Blue Earth, 4:30 p.m. Girls track NRHEG at Blue Earth, 4:30 p.m. April 28 Girls lacrosse Owatonna at Eastview, 3 p.m. Softball Owatonna at Austin Tournament, 10 a.m. Boys tennis Owatonna at Shakopee, 9 a.m. April 30 Baseball WEM at Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m. Medford at USC, 5 p.m. Mankato Loyola at NRHEG, 5 p.m. Boys golf Owatonna at Roch. Lourdes, 3 p.m. Bethlehem Academy at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Girls golf Owatonna at Winona, 2:30 p.m. Bethlehem Academy at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Boys lacrosse Robbinsdale Cooper at Owatonna, 7 p.m. Softball WEM at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Manakto Loyola at NRHEG, 5 p.m. Triton at Rochester Lourdes, 5 p.m. May 1 Baseball Faribault at Owatonna (dh), 4 p.m. Hayfield at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Triton at Bethlehem Academy, 4:30 p.m. Boys golf Owatonna at Austin tri, 2:30 p.m. Girls golf Blooming Prairie at Triton Tournament, 1:30 p.m. Softball Hayfield at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Boys tennis Mankato East at Owatonna, 4:30 p.m.
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports Boys track Owatonna at Mankato West tri, 4:30 p.m. Medford at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Blooming Prairie Invite, 4:30 p.m. NRHEG at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Girls track Owatonna, Faribault at Winona, 4:30 p.m. Medford at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Blooming Prairie Invite, 4:30 p.m. NRHEG at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. May 2 Softball Red Wing at Owatonna, 5 p.m. May 3 Baseball Owatonna at Albert Lea, 5 p.m. Blooming Prairie at Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. NRHEG at Medford, 5 p.m. Triton at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 5 p.m. Boys golf Rochester Century at Owatonna, 2:30 p.m. Girls golf Owatonna at Rochester JM tri, 3:30 p.m. Boys lacrosse Rochester JM at Owatonna, 6:30 p.m. Girls lacrosse Owatonna at Rochester JM, 6:30 p.m. Softball Blooming Prairie at Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. Boys tennis Owatonna at Rochester JM, 4:30 p.m. Boys track Medford at Byron, 4:30 p.m. Triton at Byron Invite, 4:30 p.m. Girls track Medford at Byron, 4:30 p.m. Triton at Byron Invite, 4:30 p.m. May 5 Baseball Red Wing and Lakeville North at Owatonna Tournament, 11 a.m. Boys track Owatonna at Rochester Mayo Invite, 9 a.m. May 7 Baseball Randolph at Medford, 5 p.m. NRHEG at JWP, 5 p.m. Softball NRHEG at JWP, 5 p.m. Triton at Winona Cotter, 5 p.m. May 8 Baseball Owatonna at Rochester Mayo, 5 p.m. Medford at WEM, 5 p.m. Triton at Goodhue (dh), 3:45 p.m. Boys golf Owatonna at Mankato West tri, 2:30 p.m. NRHEG, USC at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Girls golf Owatonna tri, 2:30 p.m. NRHEG, USC at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m.
Boys lacrosse Owatonna at Farmington, 6:30 p.m. Girls lacrosse Farmington at Owatonna, 6:30 p.m. Softball Rochester JM at Owatonna, 7 p.m. Triton at WEM, 5 p.m. Boys track Section True Team (at Rochester Mayo), TBD Medford at Rushford-Peterson, 3 p.m. Blooming Prairie at RushfordPeterson, 3 p.m. NRHEG at Maple River, 4:30 p.m. Triton at True Team (at R-P), 3 p.m. Girls track Section True Team (at Rochester Mayo), TBD Medford at Rushford-Peterson, 3 p.m. Blooming Prairie at RushfordPeterson, 3 p.m. NRHEG at Maple River, 4:30 p.m. Triton True Team (at R-P), 3 p.m. May 10 Baseball Winona at Owatonna, 5 p.m. JWP at Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m. Medford at Mankato Loyola, 4:30 p.m. USC at NRHEG, 5 p.m. Boys golf Owatonna at Faribault, 3:30 p.m. Girls golf Faribault at Owatonna, 3:30 p.m. Girls lacrosse Owatonna at Rochester Century, 6:30 p.m. Softball Winona at Owatonna (dh), 4 p.m. JWP at Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m. USC at NRHEG, 5 p.m. Bethlehem Academy at Triton, 4:30 p.m. Boys tennis Mankato West at Owatonna, 4:30 p.m. Boys track Medford Invite, 4:30 p.m. Girls track Medford Invite, 4:30 p.m. May 11 Baseball Cannon Falls at Triton, 5 p.m. Boys golf Owatonna at Mankato East Invite, 8:30 a.m. Girls golf Owatonna at Prior Lake Invite, 11:30 p.m. Boys lacrosse Irondale at Owatonna, 7:30 p.m. Girls lacrosse Burnsville at Owatonna, 6 p.m. Softball Owatonna vs. Northfield (at RCTC), 3:45 Owatonna vs. Farmington (at RCTC), 5 p.m. NRHEG at Albert Lea, 5 p.m. Goodhue at Triton, 5 p.m. May 12 Baseball Lyle-Pacelli at Blooming Prairie, 10 a.m. Medford Tournament, 10 a.m. Boys golf Owatonna at Mankato East Invite, 9 a.m.
PAGE 15
Girls golf Owatonna Invite, 10 a.m. Softball Blooming Prairie Invite, 10 a.m. May 15 Baseball Owatonna at Mankato East (dh), 4 p.m. NRHEG at Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m. Triton at Pine Island, 5 p.m. Boys golf JWP at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Girls golf JWP at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. Girls lacrosse Owatonna at Visitation, 6 p.m. Softball Owatonna at Albert Lea, 5 p.m. NRHEG at Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m. La Crescent at Triton, 5 p.m. Boys track Mankato East, Austin at Owatonna, 4 p.m. May 16 Girls track Owatonna, Austin at Mankato East, 4 p.m. May 17 Baseball Blooming Prairie at USC, 5 p.m. Medford at Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. Girls golf Owatonna at Rochester Century, 3:30 p.m. Girls lacrosse Rochester Mayo at Owatonna, 6:30 p.m. Softball Blooming Prairie at USC, 4:30 p.m. NRHEG at Byron, 5 p.m. Randolph at Triton, 4:30 p.m. May 18 Baseball Rochester JM at Owatonna, 5 p.m. Cleveland at Medford, 5 p.m. Triton at Kasson-Mantorville, 5 p.m. Boys lacrosse Chaska at Owatonna, 7 p.m. Softball Blooming Prairie at Triton, 4:30 p.m.
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PAGE 16
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
Thursday, April 5, 2012
nrheg boys track & field
Schiltz, Panthers look for consistent improvement in 2012 season Owatonna senior Dalton Homeier
What happened in 2011 TJ Schiltz had the highest place for the NRHEG boys at the Section 2A meet, taking fifth in the 1,600. The 400 relay team of Ross Chester, Geoff Ramaker, Brian Billing and Hunter Eustice was sixth.
NRHEG sophomore TJ Schiltz
What you will see in 2012 Schiltz returns to improve on last year’s finish. Head coach Duane Ferber 2012 Schedule April 3 NRHEG Invitational, 4:30 p.m. April 5 at Waseca Invitational, 4:30 p.m. April 10 NRHEG Invitational, 4:30 p.m. April 17 at USC, 4:30 p.m. April 24 at Maple River, 4:30 p.m. April 27 at Blue Earth, 4:30 p.m. May 1 at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. May 8 at Maple River, 4:30 p.m.
HUSKIES, On track for the Final Four From Page 10 With the pitchers the Huskies have coming back, a return to the top of the Big Nine is certainly a goal, and a second section title in four years is within reach. “I think we’ll make it right back (to the Final Four),” Olson said. “I think we’re going right back to the finals again. It’s going to be tough once we get there, but we’ll for sure get back there.”
The Huskies open the season with three consecutive home games, including a tough one against Mayo on April 12. A doubleheader at defending section champion Rochester Century on April 14 will be Owatonna’s best early-season test. OHS will also get a chance to display its pitching depth with a home doubleheaders against Mankato West on April 24 and Faribault on May 1. Four days
later, the Huskies will host their annual wood bat tournament with games against Red Wing and Lakeville North. Sports Editor Ian Stauffer can be reached at 444-2375. Follow him on Twitter @OPPStauffer Sports Editor Ian Stauffer can be reached at 444-2375. Follow him on Twitter @OPPStauffer
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Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
PAGE 17
medford track
Medford senior Sam Lester
Key losses could hurt Tigers What happened in 2011 The Tigers boys team sent Grant Fitzgerald to the state tournament in the long jump where Fitzgerald finished 15th. It was Fitzgerald’s second trip to state after he finished ninth in the long jump as a junior.
What you will see in 2012 Fitzgerald graduated, and with him went a lot of points. A record number of athletes will try to find a way to make that up. The girls are not blessed with numbers as only 26 made the commitment in grades seven through 12. However, every girl that came out as a junior is out again as a senior. Lauren Larson (triple jump and 400-meter relay) and Sam Lester (100, 200 and 400 relay) should lead the girls. Head coach Kevin Werk, 9th year 2012 Boys Roster Seniors Eli Chapple, Dan Larson, Kiel Larson, Austin Parrish, Nate Valen Juniors Hunter Beckstrom, Dylan Beyer, Tyler Borst, Hunter Clayton, Bryce Elmhorst, Geoffrey Fitzgerald,
Joe Haak, Brandon Hanson, Aden Holmgren, Alex Spinler, Brody Rogotzke, Danny Tobar, Jon Wagaman Sophomores Matt Borash, Chase Hanson, Michael Homblad, Angel Lopez, Adam Manderfeld, Kodie Swenson, Luke Vanzuilen, Caleb Wagner Freshmen Trevor Grems, Kameron Holmes, Benito Mora-Flores, Quinn O’Connor, Chris Peralta, Dillon Ripka, Cody Schultz, Spencer Zicafoose Eighth graders Alex Goetze, Preston Hanson, Jack Luebbe, Trevor Spatenka, Evan Stewart, Zach Valen, Tyler Zimmerman Seventh graders Noah Beyer, Isaac Cornell, Marcus Deleon, Nick Masso, Noah Parrish, Joshua Schauer 2012 Girls Roster Seniors Cailtin Wilson, Julia Gardholm, Megan Klapperich, Krista Krogh, Lauren Larson, Sam Lester
Juniors Tori Chell, Alyssa Luebbe, Nicole Morgan, Sara Thofson Sophomores Allie Keilen, Sam Larson, Ellyn Luebbe, Emily Nagel Freshmen Cilinna Converse, Katie Ivance, Cassidy Kavitz, Alisha Litsheim, Holly Vohs Eighth graders Sarah Manderfeld Seventh graders Matea Hobbs, Cassandra Larson, Dani Morgan, Callie Nagel, Gianni Sao, Mikayla Spinler
2012 Schedule April 3 at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m. April 5 at PEM, 4:30 p.m. April 10 at Owatonna Co-ed Relays, 4 p.m. April 14 at Montgomery-Lonsdale, 10 a.m. April 19 at Triton, 4:30 p.m. April 24 Medford Invite, 4:30 p.m. May 1 at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. May 3 at Byron, 4:30 p.m. May 8 at Rushford-Peterson, 3 p.m. May 10 Medford Invite, 4:30 p.m.
PAGE 18
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
owatonna girls golf Owatonna senior Claire Konold
What you will see in 2012 Hill, a freshman, is back for another run at the state tournament along with senor Claire Konold. The team is talented up top, and deep beneath those two. Seventeen girls have come out for the team, a number that coach Tim Hunst said was about what was expected. Tim Hunst
Head coach
2012 Roster Seniors Alyssa Holcomb, Sara Johnson, Claire Konold, Lauren Numedahl Juniors Lara Butler, Alexandra Johnson, Abby Krumrie Sophomores Erin Abbe, Melissa Klecker, Makenzie Soukup Freshmen Anna Edel, Sophie Hill, Emma Howell, Brianna Kadlec, Erin Lindenbaum, Allie Mayer, Maddie Peglow
2012 Schedule April 14 at Faribault Invite, 9 a.m. April 19 at Red Wing Invite, 12:30 p.m. April 21 at Staples-Motley Invite, TBD April 24 at Rochester Mayo tri, 3:30 p.m. April 30 at Winona, 2:30 p.m. May 3 at Rochester JM tri, 3:30 p.m. May 8 Owatonna tri, 2:30 p.m. May 10 vs. Faribault, 3:30 p.m. May 11 at Prior Lake Invite, 11:30 p.m. May 12 Owatonna Invite, 10 a.m. May 17 at Rochester Century, 3:30 p.m.
owatonna boys golf
OHS boys have solid core, need to find depth What happened in 2011 Jack Bostrom, Parker Butler, Kaden Carpenter and AJ Lindenbaum led a rotating cast of varsity players to a third-place finish in 2011. All four of those golfers graduated in addition to three others.
ter Jones, Chris Hartle, Garrett Kruchten, Joe Kearin, Jacob Otto, Ian Simon, Joe Van Reeth, Kody Stenzel, Brody Voss Eighth graders Gage Schuster 2012 Schedule April 12 at Decorah (Iowa), 1 p.m. April 19 at Alexandria Invite, 9:30 a.m. April 20 at Willmar Tournament, 1 p.m. April 21 at Willmar Tournament, 9 a.m. April 26 at Brainerd Invite, 8:30 a.m.
Appel, Haley lead youth movement What you will see in 2012 A lot of new faces will make their varsity debuts as the Huskies lost three of their top four singles players and one of their top doubles players. Zishka, Joe Dingmann and Dan Borgertpoepping all graduated and Renan Sontag moved back to his native Brazil. That leaves Alex Appel, who played No. 4 singles last year, and Borgertpoepping’s No. 1 doubles partner Ty Haley as the senior members of the team. Head coach Curt Matejcek 2012 Roster Seniors Alex Appel, Zach Bueltel, Ben Eisman, Sean Hale, Ty Haley, Cameron Jacobs, Dillon Jones, Vladislav Kaachorovksy, Daniel Lewis, Christian Schuster, Jeremy Zimmerman Juniors Sean Grubish, Daniel Heslep, Evan Mrozek, Marcus Oyloe, Kurtiss
Owatonna senior Ty Haley
Pierrt, Carlos Sebastian Del Rio, Lucas Simanovski, Trent Tucker Sophomores He Chen, Gavin Glynn, Austin Haley, Garrett Olson, Eric Schlicker, Matt VanOmmeran Freshmen Michael Duerr, Kyle Lewis, Ethan Schultz, Tim Starman Eighth graders Noah Velasquez 2012 Schedule April 9 vs. Northfield, 4 p.m. April 12 at Faribault, 4:30 p.m.
April 14 at Cretin-Derham Hall Invite, 2 p.m. April 17 vs. Albert Lea, 4:30 p.m. April 19 at Rochester Century, 4:30 p.m. April 21 Owatonna Invite, 10 a.m. April 24 vs. Rochester Mayo, 4:30 p.m. April 26 at Winona, 4:30 p.m. April 27 vs. Waseca, 4:30 p.m. April 28 at Shakopee, 9 a.m. May 1 vs. Mankato East, 4:30 p.m. May 3 at Rochester JM, 4:30 p.m. May 8 vs. Mankato West, 4:30 p.m. May 10 at Austin, 4:30 p.m.
We wish all of the area athletes BEST OF LUCK during the spring sports season!
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Owatonna sophomore Ted Urch
What you will see in 2012 Talented freshman Peter Jones is back to lead another team that is expected to have competition for the varsity spots. Danish exchange student Johan Frandsen brings international tournament experience and a different style to the team. 2012 Roster Seniors Johan Frandsen, Tyler Jenkins, Eric Teaman Juniors Noah Braget, Andrew Buzzard, Kyle Dickerman, Dillon Donahe, Isaiah Fails, Jacob Kaplan, William Kreutter, Andrew Ramert, Jake Zulk Sophomores Broderick Dalland, Noah DeKam, Ben Konold, Jeffrey Johnson, Logan Langer, Ted Urch Freshmen Cole Butler, Jacob Deml, Pe-
owatonna boys tennis
What happened in 2011 Eric Zishka ended his Owatonna career with his fourth trip to state, while the 13-5 Huskies’ team season ended in the section final four. Owatonna finished third in the Big 9.
Talented team looks for Big 9 repeat What happened in 2011 The Huskies won the Big 9 and sent Sophie Hill to the state tournament.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
April 27 vs. Mankato East and Rochester Mayo, 2:30 p.m. April 30 at Rochester Lourdes, 3 p.m. May 1 at Austin tri, 2:30 p.m. May 3 vs. Rochester Century, 2:30 p.m. May 8 at Mankato West tri, 2:30 p.m. May 10 at Faribault, 3:30 p.m. May 11 at Mankato East Invite, 8:30 a.m. May 12 at Mankato East Invite, 9 a.m. May 19 Owatonna Invite, 10 a.m.
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Thursday, April 5, 2012
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
PAGE 19
owatonna softball
Thom could be key to Huskies’ season
Owatonna junior Shanna Thom
What happened in 2011 The Huskies finished one game below .500 in the Big 9 at 8-9, and two games below overall at 10-12. The team was led by four graduates, Breezy Pitan, Cailyn McCauley, Katelyn Schwab and Amiee Goodew.
oSN
What you will see in 2012 Pitching, with a healthy Lianna Pilcher and Shanna Thom, should be able to carry Owatonna to some early wins until the young offense has time to catch up. Along with Thom and Pilcher, Nicole Buck and Rachel Malo, will be looked upon to help the team meet its goal of finishing in the top half of the Big 9, something the Huskies were able to do last year with two wins to close the season.
Owatonna
Sports Network Head coach Kristi Hiatt, 6th year 2012 Roster Seniors Laura Meyer, Lindsey Price, Megan Scheid, Lydia Yahnke
owatonna baseball
Pitching could equal Big 9 title
oSN
Sports Network
Owatonna senior Matt Simon
Your all-in-one community sports source and the exciting new way for players, teams, organizations and fans to share scores, stories, stats, announcements, photos and videos.
Head coach Tate Cummins, 6th year, 77-36 2012 Roster Seniors Dalton Homeier, Jake Majerus, Cody Olson, Matt Simon, Carson Spitzak, Tyler Vonruden Juniors Jacob Belina, Jake Buswell, Jordan Howe, Ryan Melcher, Taylor Phelps, Matt Ratzloff, Caleb Satterlund, Colton Schock, Kory
2012 Schedule April 10 vs. Faribault, 5 p.m. April 12 at Rochester Century (dh), 4 p.m. April 17 at Austin, 5 p.m. April 19 at Mankato West (dh), 4 p.m. April 21 vs. Mankato East, noon April 26 vs. Rochester Mayo (dh), 4 p.m. April 27 at Austin Tournament, 5 p.m. April 28 at Austin Tournament, 10 a.m. May 2 vs. Red Wing, 5 p.m. May 8 vs. Rochester JM, 7 p.m. May 10 vs. Winona (dh), 4 p.m. May 11 Owatonna vs. Northfield (at RCTC), 3:45 May 11 Owatonna vs. Farmington (at RCTC), 5 p.m. May 15 at Albert Lea, 5 p.m.
Owatonna
What happened in 2011 Owatonna rode good starting pitching and some hot hitting into the playoffs. The Huskies, who finished 15-7, fell to Red Wing after beating Faribault. The loss to the Wingers happened one game before the Section 1AAA Final Four. What you will see in 2012 Starting pitching will again be a strength as the Huskies return their top three hurlers in seniors Dalton Homeier and Cody Olson and junior Jordan Howe. Senior Matt Simon returns to lead the offense, but more runs will have to come from some unproven players as the Huskies’ depth is young and untested at the varsity level.
Juniors Nicole Buck, Courtney Lynch, Rachel Malo, Emilee Steinbauer, Shanna Thom Sophomores Kennedi Alstead, Abbie Matson, Lianna Pilcher, Abby Sawyer
Soukup, Conner Steinhorst 2012 Schedule April 5 vs. Albert Lea, 5 p.m. April 12 vs. Rochester Mayo, 5 p.m. April 14 at Rochester Century (dh), 3 p.m. April 17 at Winona, 5 p.m. April 19 at Rochester JM, 5 p.m. April 24 vs. Mankato West (dh), 4 p.m.
April 26 at Austin, 5 p.m. May 1 vs. Faribault (dh), 4 p.m. May 3 at Albert Lea, 5 p.m. May 5 Owatonna Tournament (vs. Red Wing and Lake. North), 11 a.m. May 8 at Rochester Mayo, 5 p.m. May 10 vs. Winona, 5 p.m. May 15 at Mankato East (dh), 4 p.m. May 18 vs. Rochester JM, 5 p.m.
For more information, please contact Ian Stauffer at 507-444-2375 or istauffer@owatonna.com Look for the OSN link on Owatonna.com
PAGE 20
Owatonna People's Press Spring Sports
Thursday, April 5, 2012
New (old) coaches take over for Tigers, Blossoms By IAN STAUFFER
istauffer@owatonna.com
OWATONNA – Paul Peterson and Jon Chappuis are technically the new head baseball coaches at Blooming Prairie and Medford, respectively, but neither coach is really new. Peterson was an assistant coach for the Awesome Blossoms for 12 years before taking over as head coach this season, and Chappuis was a junior high coach and later an assistant varsity coach before this spring. Now both are calling the shots for their teams and the feeling in both camps is that things are looking up. “I’ve had (Chappuis) for wresting and football stuff, so I know what kind of coach he is,” said Medford senior Andrew Keller. “He’ll push us to get better. He knows his stuff about baseball, too. That will be good for us.” Down in Blooming Prairie, the
players said things haven’t really changed with Peterson in charge. That’s what happens when the longtime assistant of a successful coach takes over. “There really isn’t too much different,” Blossoms senior Luke Hueman said. “There has been more excitement for this baseball season just because it has been so nice out, but otherwise it feels pretty much the same.” Hueman is one of seven seniors on the Blooming Prairie roster, so Peterson knows his job is kind of easy – this year anyway. “I think it’s good that the kids feel like nothing has changed,” said Peterson, who took over after former coach Chris Staloch became a principal in Blooming Prairie. “We want to keep things going. These guys have proven winning records in all their sports, and I’m hoping it continues. They all have great attitudes.” Six of the Blossoms’ seven seniors figure to be starters or key
reserves this season, so a big part of Peterson’s job is to fill out the lineup card and try to stay out of the way. “We’ve got so much senior leadership here, we kind of know how things are run,” Hueman said. “We just kind of go do it. We don’t call the shots, but we know what to do and we do it.” It’s a bit of a different story in Medford where the Tigers haven’t had a winning season in at least a decade and haven’t won a playoff game since 2007. Chappuis takes over a program with just two seniors on the roster, including one who didn’t play baseball last year. “We’ve been doing a lot of drills, getting back to the basics,” said Chappuis, who got his position after Dennis Whitman resigned. “I’ve been around this program for a while. This junior class was my first group back in eighth grade, so it’s pretty exciting to get those kids again as varsity players.” In addition to Chappuis’
Medford coach Jon Chappuis
time with the program, his son is a freshman on the team, so he knows most of the players pretty well and has fed more than one of them a dinner of two over the years. “Yeah, they’ve all been to my house once or twice,” Chappuis said with a laugh. Peterson has also known his charges for quite some time. He is an elementary school teacher in Blooming Prairie and had most of the current players as students a few years back. Whether the comfort level of the players with their new coaches results in success on the field remains to be seen. The Tigers were no-hit and lost their season opener 11-0 against Triton on April 2. Blooming Prairie also opens against Triton, but not until April 10. “There is a lot of enthusiasm right now,” Peterson said. “We’ve got a lot of experience coming back, so the guys are pretty excited.”
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