Record-setting receiver Brayden Allen and Ridgeline are ready to build on success of last season and challenge for GSL title PaGE 2
By Dave Nichols THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
A little success can be a funny thing. It can breed confidence, but it also brings higher aspirations – and expectations.
So it is with the 2024 Ridgeline football program.
The Falcons – who won four games in their first two seasons combined – qualified for the postseason last year after a 7-2 record in the regular season. They then went on to win a Round-of-32 game to reach the state playoffs for the first time in program history in just their third season and finished 8-3.
Everyone is anxious to see what they can do for an encore.
“We’re building on, you know, three years of improvement,” Ridgeline coach David Myers said. “But we obviously graduated a pretty talented class of kids. And so, this is going to be a new challenge for us in terms of replacing kids that have graduated. We’ve had essentially the same team for three years now, so this is a new phase of our growth as a new school.”
The Falcons saw a group of 11 players, 10 starters, move on. Most were three-year starters in the nascent program.
“Replacing that large number of kids, you know, it’s a different look,” Myers said. “We’ve got kids that don’t have that same level of varsity experience and playing time, and it’s not their third year on varsity in those places.
“So we, of course, have a lot of returning kids that are experienced and talented, so we’re going to be leaning on them, but we want those (other) kids to be catching up quickly.”
Returning your all-league quarterback and a receiver who’s name is in multiple places in the Greater Spokane League record book is a good place to start though.
“We’re pretty excited about what we have returning offensively,” Myers said.
Senior quarterback Landon Garner was named offensive MVP for the GSL 4A/3A division last season, but that honor could very well have been bestowed on his favorite target, senior receiver Brayden Allen, as well.
Through his junior season, Allen is the league’s career, single-season and single-game receptions leader. His 197 career league catches put him 54
FOOTBALL AT A GLANCE
By Dave Nichols THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
LIFT OFF
Ridgeline enters fourth season with optimism sparked by 2023 breakthrough
ahead of second place. He caught 90 passes during league play last season (30 more than second place and 41 higher than No. 3) to set the season record along with 878 yards and 12 touchdowns –tops in both categories.
Overall, he had 112 catches for 1,112 yards and 14 TDs.
Allen enters play this season needing 553 yards to pass Shadle Park’s Tanner Pauly at the top of the league career yardage list. To do that, he will have to leapfrog four others on the way.
“I don’t know if I get to 90 (catches) again,” Allen said. “I mean, I don’t know if that’s the goal in our offense this year. But I think I just want to get more yards. That’s my goal – just getting more yards and getting in the end zone more.”
He would have been even clos-
Capsules for the 2024 Greater Spokane League, Northeast A and area 2B football teams. In alphabetical order by classification. Records and standings from 2023 season.
GSL 4A
Ferris (2-8, 1-7, eighth): John Olson starts his third season as QB for the Saxons, his second under coach Jerrall Haynes. There are 15 letter winners and six starters back as well for this young team. “Entering Year 2 of our program, we’re grateful for the kids that we have,”
er to the yardage mark by now, but he was limited during his sophomore season while still recovering from surgery to remove a bone tumor from his femur that left him with 28 staples in his leg. He was nonweight-bearing on the leg for three months that spring.
But despite the prolific stats, Allen enters his senior year with just one college offer on the table. What else does he have to prove?
“There’s always something more to prove, because there’s always someone out there working harder and being better than you,” Allen said. “So, I’ve always got something to prove, whether it’s to myself, coaches, anybody.”
“Braden has an amazing feel of the game,” Myers said. “He understands spacing, he under-
Haynes said. “It’s a small yet tight-knit group.”
Gonzaga Prep (10-2, 8-0, first): It’s a new era for the Bullpups, with former QBs coach Nathan Graham taking over the head duties. He has 29 letter winners and 11 starters back from a state qualifier, the biggest of which are seniors RB Noah Holman – who missed last season with injury – and all-league defensive
lineman Mario Rivera. Lewis and Clark (5-5, 3-5, sixth): Kyle Snell is the new coach and he has six returning starters on both sides of the ball. Tyler Daniel returns from injury at QB while Roman Saleki should be the featured back. “There has been tremendous growth from where we were in the spring to where we started fall camp,” Snell said.
Mead (5-5, 4-4, fourth): There are 14 starters back for coach Keith Stamps in his fourth season with the Panthers. JJ Leman is back under center and he’s joined by fellow seniors Jimmy Frahm and Keegan Mallon in the offensive backfield. Stamps lauded the offensive line, with four starters back, as a strength;
stands what we’re trying to do offensively. He understands what the defense is trying to do. And so he does a really good job of getting into those spaces, getting open, influencing the defenders.”
Allen seems to have a exceptional ability to catch the ball regardless of the situation.
“(Allen) has spectacular hands, and can make those amazing catches when that ball gets anywhere near him,” Myers said. “He does a great job with contested catches. He’s physical. And so all those things make Braden as special as he is and as successful as he’s been.”
In this “transfer portal” era, Allen is proud to have stuck through the first rough couple of years to enjoy the success the Falcons are having now – and he likes the team’s chances this season.
but he’s looking for a playmaker on the outside.
GSL 3A Central Valley (4-6, 4-4, fifth): The Bears, in coach Ryan Butner’s ninth season, have 35 letter winners and 15 starters back. Senior Beau Butner becomes the featured back, and Kamden Lanphere will be the outside target for QB Tuff Ryan. “If the O-line can be physical and protect Ryan, we should have options to run and throw,” Butner said.
Cheney (0-10, 0-8, ninth): The Blackhawks and first-year coach John Graham of Eastern Washington’s 2010 national championship team have their work cut out for them – they were outscored by nearly 25 points per game last season. “Our only goal and expectation is to be competitive and play hard every single play,” Graham said.
Mt. Spokane (9-2, 7-1, second): Coach Terry Cloer, in his 10th year, will have to replace his top three playmakers from last year’s state qualifier. Brayten Ayers will be the featured back, with 235-pound fullback Brandon
“Playing out of same school for four years, like, a lot of people nowadays are transferring and going all different places. It’s kind of nice to finish all four years with all of my friends. I’m definitely excited to see how it goes.”
He spoke about the pressure to follow up last season’s playoff appearance.
“There’s definitely a lot to expect (coming) off of a good year,” Allen said. “But, I mean, that’s what we’re here to do. We’re here to push ourselves to the best of our abilities and to get to that point. So we just have to keep working hard every single day and see where that’s going to get us.” Garner completed 70.1% of his 328 pass attempts in league games last season for 2,198 yards with 28 touchdowns. He had 10 passed intercepted, but considering he threw 100 more passes than No. 2 last season, it’s not a bad ratio. Overall, he thew for 3,042 yards on 69.4% completions with 36 touchdown passes.
Still, the quarterback was humble about his role in the offense and the leadership of the team.
“I don’t think it’s ‘my team.’ ” Garner said. “I think it’s everyone’s team, really, because we have so many different leaders on offense and defense. So it’s not just me leading out there.”
It’s a fun offense for everyone participating in it.
“It is so fun,” Garner said. “For a quarterback, it’s the best offensive in the league, for sure. I can throw the ball 50 times (in a game). You know, it’s definitely a dream.”
“My freshman year, I was super stoked when I started seeing our plays and our play calls and stuff,” Allen said. “And just through four years, (the playbook) just opened up so much.”
Everyone acknowledged they won’t take anyone by surprise this season.
“I think all the surprise was was gone after last year’s performance,” Garner said.
“People are going to be expecting us to be good again,” Myers added. “So no, I don’t think we’re going to catch anyone off guard this year.”
Allen is up for the extra challenge.
“I feel like there’s just maybe extra pressure added to our team to come up with the same result as we did last year. But I mean, pressure just gives you something to work at.”
Hughes leading the way. Kicker Hunter McKee is a national recruit. The Wildcats face CV, G-Prep and Mead in the first four weeks. Ridgeline (8-3, 6-2, third): Fourthyear coach David Myers led the Falcons to state last year, so expectations are high. It starts with senior QB and league offensive MVP Landon Garner and WR Brayden Allen – the league’s all-time career, season and game receptions leader. The Falcons have 22 letter winners and 11 starters returning.
Shadle
will tax our health and depth,” Mace said, “but we have the strongest senior class we’ve had since the Rypien era.” University (4-6, 3-5, seventh): Coach Joe Ireland moves from LC to U-Hi, hoping to return the
COLIN MULVANY/THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
Ridgeline wide receiver Brayden Allen, left, and quarterback Landon Garner helped guide the Falcons to an 8-3 record and playoff appearance last season.
JAMES SNOOK/THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
Ridgeline receiver Brayden Allen goes up for a catch against Lewis and Clark’s Cooper Jeffries on Sept. 21, 2023, at Ridgeline High School in Liberty Lake.
UNCHARTED TERRITORY
By Ethan Myers THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
A nearly complete set of new bleachers towers above the football field at Deer Park High School.
As the Stags’ football season drew near, it was a fitting time for the program to pack its stands on Friday nights, with the school recently elevating to the 2A classification and joining the Greater Spokane League.
The school announced the change earlier this year.
“With the growth out here and the potential of new families coming in with all the housing being built, it was kind of an inevitable thing, whether it was now or down the road,” Deer Park Athletic Director Cameron Gilbert said.
The shift to facing bigger schools will be a big adjustment for a team that went 6-4 as a member of the Northeast 1A last season.
“There’s definitely some excitement,” Deer Park head coach Levi Hogan said. “You know you’re going to see some new opponents, so it’s exciting to be at new places, see new competition.
“Then you also know the challenges when you’re coming up a league. ‘OK. We got a big task ahead of us. Let’s get to work as soon as possible.’ ” The classification is based on student enrollment. Gilbert and Joe Feist, the principal, appealed the determination after hearing community and school board concerns about logistical challenges and higher transportation costs, but the decision was upheld.
But Gilbert has since embraced the change.
“Honestly, overall, I think it’s going to be a good thing for us long term,” Gilbert said. “I think there are some benefits to being in a larger classification, because it
forces you to work harder. I think it forces us to grind a little more and be more competitive.”
The Stags finished 4-2 in league play last year, good enough for third in the Northeast A. But the season ended on a sour note with a 47-10 playoff loss to Omak.
“A disappointing end to last season, too – it really just stuck with us through the whole offseason,” senior starting quarterback Aiden Martin said. “Coming together as a group, you can’t stop talking about it enough.”
Deer Park will join North Central, Rogers, West Valley, East Valley, Pullman and Clarkston in GSL 2A.
Outside of some extra strength and conditioning work, Hogan said the
FOOTBALL AT A GLANCE
Continued from 2
time since 2013. Seven starters return, including senior linemen Shane Swan and Ryan Sulpizio. “We have a solid core of seniors with playing experience on Friday night and are adding some dynamic juniors to the mix,” Ireland said.
GSL 2A
Clarkston (8-3, 5-1, first): The defending league champion
Bantams return 18 letter winners for coach Brycen Bye’s 11th season. WR/ DB Ryken Craber is an all-state candidate and Hayden Line takes over at QB. “Although we lost a great group of seniors from last season, we have a large group of players returning that saw significant varsity playing time,” Bye said. Deer Park (6-4, 4-2 NEA, third): The Stags and fourth-year coach Levi Hogan make the jump into the GSL with 14 starters back, including seniors lineman Rody Phillips, RB/ LB Jack Martinez and WR/DB Gavin Carnahan. “Going up a level we have a big challenge ahead of us,” Hogan
said. “If we can stay healthy, we like our chances to compete and win.”
East Valley (3-7, 1-5, sixth):
Coach Adam Fisher is back for his second season of his second stint –and 19th overall. “Year 2 back with the same staff, and kids now know the expectations,” he said. “We’re much better at this time than we were a year ago at the same time.” Juniors QB/DB Tarin Fields, RB/DB JJ Bitner and WR/DB Connor Nicholson are leaders.
North Central (2-8, 0-6, seventh): Third-year coach Aaron Woods has 18 letter winners and 15 starters back, and junior Trevelle Jones takes over at QB, looking for all-league receivers Nock Elliott and Ryland Kyle, fellow juniors. “We are a young team with a solid mix of starters and players who have played a significant number of snaps,” Woods said.
Pullman (5-5, 3-3, fifth): Kevin Agnew takes over at coach with 12 letter winners and seven starters back, including senior RB/
coaching staff’s approach to this upcoming season won’t change much from years past.
“Part of (the challenge) is the lack of familiarity with opponents,” Hogan said. “There will be a lot of digging into that film study.”
Hogan identified depth and athleticism as the biggest differences in the jump in play from 1A to 2A.
“The top guys in (Northeast 1A) are pretty good,” he said. “I just think there are going to be a few more of them on the field now.”
Clarkston sat atop the 2A last year with a 5-1 league record and 8-3 overall. Shadle Park (now 3A) finished second, but Rogers and West Valley also competed for the top two spots.
DB Brady Coulter and senior linemen Lucas Clark and Sam Sears. Junior Connor Stewart is the new QB. “Our offensive line and front six on defense should be our strength,” Agnew said.
Rogers (7-3, 4-2, third): The Pirates qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 2015 last season and have 30 letter winners back for coach Ryan Cole’s second season. Leaders Aaron Kinsey and Hartman Warrick graduated, but RB Gavyn Bodman will pace the offense. “We are poised to have a dominant defense, from the line to the secondary,” Cole said.
West Valley (6-4, 4-2, fourth): Craig Whitney returns for his 20th season with the Eagles and has 28 letter winners and 12 starters back. They’ll be led by senior QB Ethan Turley and RB Austin Clark. “Every league game in huge,” Whitney said. “We have a veteran offensive line and we are excited to watch them work for some talented skill kids.”
NEA
Colville (4-5, 2-4, fifth): William Benbrook comes over from
Deer Park players, coaches look forward to challenge of playing in GSL
“Tougher, bigger, faster,” Martin said about what to expect from the new competition. “But we’re just as tough, just as big, just as fast. We’re just not yet used to playing in it.”
But the athletes, particularly the close-knit senior group, are eager to take the challenge head on.
With Martin at the helm, and two-way players Rody Phillips and Evan Henry in tow, Hogan expects to rely heavily on his senior group in the first season in 2A.
“We have a big number of seniors and we expect to be very competitive with that group leading the way,” Hogan said. “Aside from them being seniors, it’s also a group of seniors that has a lot of (playing) experience. We’re hoping to lean into that experience, knowing that every week is going to be a battle.”
The fresh competition is not all unfamiliar to the Stags, as Deer Park has gone up against a few 2A league members over the past several years. The Stags defeated East Valley in 2018, 2019 and 2022. Deer Park also took down Rogers in 2017.
“We were able to be competitive with them … but I think we can compete with any school that we go up against,” Gilbert said.
Along with the thrill of lining up against new faces and jerseys, Hogan pointed to the bigger stage that is 2A.
“They’re super excited to see their names listed in the GSL and get to play at ONE (Spokane) Stadium,” he said of his players. “They haven’t done that before, so it’s exciting to do that.”
Despite the change, the players are setting the expectations high and aiming for a playoff spot.
“We got a chip on our shoulder,” Phillips said. “We’re the new guys, so we have to show out … We have to expect to be No. 1.”
“Don’t underestimate us,” Martin said.
Yelm to take over the Crimson Hawks program with 14 letter winners returning, including second-team All-NEA RB Braden Dunham and the bulk of both lines. “This group has grown up together and has a high desire to win,” Benbrook said. Lakeside (12-1, 6-0, first): The Eagles will have to rebuild coming off the program’s first state title appearance, with 17 letter winners graduated. Senior RB/LB Brady Nine, a returning starter, and junior QB Cy Reeves will be counted on to lead by eighth-year coach Devin Bauer. “We are tough, wiling to work and committed to competing,” Bauer said. Medical Lake (1-9, 0-6, seventh): “The chemistry the guys have is a lot of fun to be around and to coach. This is a great group of young men,” third-year coach Nick Puzycki said. Senior Aiden Suddeth is the QB and he’ll hand to fellow seniors Cylas Puzycki and Dakotah Phillips. Riverside (3-6, 2-4, sixth): Ninth-year coach Buddy Wood has 12 letter winners and eight starters back, but he will have to replace the bulk of the Rams’ skill players. Junior Ethan Wilfong is the new QB, and he’ll have senior Kenny Coulter and junior
Mason Dell as running backs. Northeast 2B
Freeman (8-4, 4-2 NEA, second): The traditionally tough Scotties drop down a level in Michael Mckeown’s first season as coach after three seasons as offensive coordinator. There’s plenty of talent at receiver, led by seniors Colton Wells, Nash McLean and Vance Coyner. “We have good senior leadership and experience in playing in big games,” Mckeown said. Liberty (3-7, 2-5, sixth): “The team is really young, almost 70% of the team are sophomores and freshman,” fourth-year coach Brian Harrington said. That said, 18 letter winners and 12 starters return, including senior RBs Coleman Tee and Viliami Finau and senior lineman Hunter Carter.
Northwest Christian (11-1, 7-0, first): The Crusaders fell in a state semifinal and have 12 letter winners, but just four starters, back for coach Marshall Hart’s fourth season. Senior linemen Joe Spuler, Nate Baldwin and Tim Lindsey are all-league performers. “We have a ton of explosive playmakers across the board,” Hart said.
PHOTOS BY JESSE TINSLEY/THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
Coach Levi Hogan walks his Deer Park football squad through plays during practice last week at Deer Park High School in hopes his Stags can make an impact this fall.
Deer Park quarterback Aidan Martin looks for receivers downfield last week during practice. The team is moving up into the GSL this fall.
By Justin Reed THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
Fluorescent lights beaming down in her University High School classrooms forced Carsyn Gildehaus to wear sunglasses during class.
Her driving privileges were revoked, stunting her freedom, and extreme nausea limited most activity.
That is what healing from a concussion can look like – disruptions making seemingly normal mundane tasks difficult.
Gildehaus, who is starting her junior season as the reigning Greater Spokane League girls soccer offensive player of the year, spent much of her sophomore year of high school recovering from and dealing with the repercussions of multiple head injuries in a short amount of time.
The first incident occurred in a 2023 soccer postseason game when she fell after leaping for a header – and tumbled headfirst to the turf. Her mom, Brenda Gildehaus, was in the bleachers on the opposite side of the field from where it happened, and she heard her daughter’s head slam the ground.
“My heart … I don’t even know how to explain it, was just in my stomach,” she said. “I felt very, very sick because we’ve never had to deal with head trauma. You really just don’t think it’s going to happen to your kid – until it does.”
Carsyn, a former three-sport athlete, suffered her second concussion during the basketball season when she collided with an opponent on a loose ball. She was later involved in a vehicle collision with a snowplow on her way to an appointment for her head, which she said made her injury even worse.
“It was definitely a new experience,” Gildehaus said. “I’ve heard things about concussions, but honestly I never thought
HEADSTRONG
After
multiple concussions, Gildehaus fights her way back with a new perspective
they could happen to me.”
Prognosis and recovery
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines a concussion as a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells.
Gildehaus struggled with recovery, going through periods of positive progress that made it seem like she was over the hump. But then she would be unable to recall her middle name or be forced to leave school due to unrelenting nausea.
Concussion recovery is even more difficult to track and recover since it’s an injury that can’t be seen. It’s different than a broken bone or a ruptured tendon with set recovery times and imaging that clearly shows the progress of healing.
The Gildehauses found a recovery home at Shriners Children’s Hospital to help Carsyn through her healing.
“Shriners was a godsend,”
Brenda Gildehaus said. Brenda and Carsyn lauded Dr. Ryan Baker, along with the nurses and physical therapists who worked with her along the way.
“He could just open your eyes like there’s no tomorrow about (concussions) because he really opened mine as, not only as a parent, but also as a former coach,” Brenda said.
Advocacy and normalcy
Brenda Gildehaus, who lives with multiple sclerosis, attempted to do everything she could to keep some sort of normalcy, helping coordinate schoolwork when Carsyn couldn’t leave the house.
“I know what that feeling of helplessness is like,” Brenda Gildehaus said.
“It’s something we need to look at, because these are our kids and our kids become adults, and then they can live with agonizing problems, potentially, if we don’t take it seriously,” Brenda said. “Your kid may seem invincible to you, but really we are as a human race, kind of fragile. These are children that we are raising to become, hopefully, contributing, giving, caring and successful parts of society.”
Carsyn Gildehaus has since become a concussion advocate.
“I think among the younger generation, it needs to be normalized,” Gildehaus said. “And I also feel like in the school setting as well.”
A 4.0 GPA student, Gildehaus needed extra assistance and adjusted timelines. She confirmed
struggling socially as peers didn’t understand how the injury was affecting her. There were no crutches or a walking boot – but a girl whose neurons weren’t firing properly because of an injured brain that had no timetable of recovery.
“I do well in school, I love paying attention, love learning – and everything just became hard,” Carsyn Gildehaus said. “I could barely go to school. I’d have to go at different times of the day because my head … I just couldn’t focus.”
Back on the pitch
Finally cleared for contact, Carsyn Gildehaus is hoping to lead U-Hi (12-5, 7-2 in 2023) back to the top of the GSL for the first time since 2005. The Titans also won in 1998 when head coach Kara Sharpe – the 2023 coach of the year – was a player.
The green light comes with high expectations after scoring 17 goals last season. And don’t expect her to alter her style after her stay on the sidelines. She spent the first bit of time back on the field learning how to play hard again – the first few challenges in the air led to apprehension. It took four to five months to get past the feeling she was going to end up with another brain injury.
“I like to play really fast-paced games, I love creativity. I’ll watch (Brazilian soccer star) Neymar
“ I could barely go to school. I’d have to go
play, he’s one of my idols I watch all the time,” she said.
“She is a real team player, a very humble leader, and she wants her team to do well,” Sharpe said. “She’s the one when we’re down or it’s a tight game, she wants the ball. She wants to be the person who isn’t afraid to close out a game.”
Epidemic of head injuries
After five players left games with concussions in 2023 – out of 17 on the roster – Sharpe is glad head injuries are a priority from the top down in athletics. She has noticed an increase of attention to combat head injuries from the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association and the GSL.
That’s due, in part, to the Zackery Lystedt law passed in 2009, which requires removing athletes who have a possible concussion from play, no matter the sport, and to be examined and cleared by a licensed health care provider before returning to play. Washington State law requires all public schools to annually report each diagnosed concussion sustained during athletic and/or other activities. According to the state, between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023, 1,995 concussions were reported, or 18.2 per 10,000 students. According to the CDC, 1 in 10 student athletes in contact sports – such as soccer – sustain concussions yearly.
“All of these horrible things that can happen to you from concussions, I think that it’s just so imperative that we put that as our No. 1 priority is the player’s safety, especially when it comes to their brain,” Sharpe said.
The experience has changed Gildehaus and forced a more mature approach to her sport.
“It was eye opening, and I was like, ‘Man, any day soccer could be taken from me,’ ” she said. “So, from now on I always step on the field and I’m just super thankful of every opportunity I get to play.”
at different times of the day because my head
…
Carsyn Gildehaus University soccer player
I just couldn’t focus.”
GIRLS SOCCER AT A GLANCE
By Dave Nichols THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
Capsules for the 2024 Greater Spokane League and Northeast A girls soccer teams. In alphabetical order by classification. Records and standings from 2023 season.
GSL 4A
Ferris (8-10-1, 3-6, eighth): Coach Alex Bray returns for his seventh season with nine starters back for the Saxons, led by senior all-league picks Sylvie Washington (MF) and Myann Johanson (GK). The team missed state by one game last season. “Losing that game has the girls very motivated to get past that point,” Bray said. “We have strong team leaders and a desire to compete with the best.” Gonzaga Prep (16-3. 8-1, first): The Bullpups are reloaded for another run to state. A year after finishing fourth in Washington 4A, Gonzaga Prep has seven senior starters, including first-team all-GSL Jennah Wanner who was offensive player of the year in her sophomore year. Expect her to take on a major role this fall.
Julia Few, first-team all-league and Ava Felice, second-team, will provide even more attacking firepower for G-Prep. Lewis and Clark (8-8-3, 4-5, sixth): No information provided. Mead (13-8, 5-4, fifth): The expectation for the Panthers is to win the GSL every year and 2024 is no different, fourth-year head coach Casey Curtis said. This year will be completely different just from the fact that perennial star Teryn Gardner graduated, leaving a big hole. Curtis sees the depth of his team, including all-leaguers Noran Cullen and Rylee Vanos as a strength. Senior goalie Joey Hornyak is the linchpin who will play at the University of Wyoming next season.
GSL 3A
Central Valley (0-15, 0-9, 10th): It was another down season in 2023 for the Bears who finished winless for the second-straight season. Anne Siebert, the former junior varsity coach takes over for Rob Rowe. Junior goalkeeper Mallory Olson who racked up all-league honorable mention honors in 2022 is back.
Addie Reidt and Sophie Taylor will be paired in
the midfield.
Cheney (6-8, 3-6, seventh): Head coach Nels Radtke will deal with a very new roster as seven starters graduated, including three all-league players. Radtke hopes a couple incoming freshmen make an immediate impact, but also conceded that it will take some time to get everyone on the same page. Senior keeper Kiah Klauss is 100% after knee surgery and the expectation is she will be the team leader from the back.
Mt. Spokane (12-6-0, 6-3, fourth): The Wildcats reached a state elite eight game last season and new coach Mike Pellicio has 10 letterwinners and five starters back from that squad. Key returners include all-league selections senior Dakota Hansen (MF), junior GK Kenzie Shuler and sophomore Avery Davidson (MF). Ridgeline (12-4, 8-1, second): The defending GSL champs return 17 varsity players and eight starters in total. Preslie Young is the biggest loss up top, but first-teamer Quinn Mueller and second-teamer Quinn Mueller will partner up with sophomore newcomer Lydia Lynn as a three-headed attack. A deep postseason run is the expectation, third-year head coach Tiera Como said. Aliana Vakalolama, a sophomore goalkeeper and U-20 player for Fiji, will look to squash all chances.
Shadle Park (3-12-0, 3-7, fifth 2A): The Highlanders return 13 letterwinners for third-year coach Marc Mason, including senior Addison Jahn and sophomore Peyton Boston, who also has joined the Spokane Shadow. “With only losing one senior last year, the team is well-established together though still has few players (14) in the varsity ranks,” Mason said, noting that the team has several freshmen who play club and will get playing time.
University (12-5-0, 7-2, third): GSL offensive MVP junior Carsyn Gildehaus (17 goals) leads seven starters returning for sixth-year coach Kara Sharpe. “Gildehaus is fast, dynamic and a natural goal scorer,” Sharpe said. Fellow juniors Chloe Ahumada (MF) and Lilly Heaton (D) are also all-league picks. “Our team will rely heavily on our strength up the middle of the pitch,” Sharpe added.
GSL 2A
Deer Park (10-8-1, 8-4, third NEA): Joining the Stags is first-year head coach Scott Phillips, who is in his eighth season as a varsity head coach overall. Deer Park is looking to make the state tournament for the first time since 2022 after losing only three starters and letter winners. Two of them were all-league
KATHY PLONKA/THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
University High School’s Carsyn Gildehaus demonstrates a few kicks before practice at the school in August.
FORMULA FOR SUCCESS
Ava Durgan leads Panthers into first season in 4A
By Madison McCord FOR THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
Last season couldn’t have gone much better for Ava Durgan on the volleyball court.
Mead’s 6-foot-3 middle hitter was dominant in her junior campaign, leading to all-Greater Spokane League firstteam and state 3A player of the year honors, along with helping the Panthers win their second state title in three years.
But what separates good players and teams from great ones is the ability to keep pushing to be better than before. And Durgan wants to prove she and the rest of the Panthers are great.
“I love the competitiveness and knowing there is a target on my back,” Durgan said. “I don’t feel the pressure of being the focus of other teams; instead I’ve honestly just been working even harder to beat whatever they throw at me.”
That target will only grow this season as the Panthers take the step back up to 4A following the WIAA’s classification changes this summer, but Durgan said that move hasn’t had much of an impact on her thinking.
“I’ve had people ask what we think it will be like being back up in 4A, but it’s something I haven’t even thought about,” she said. “My focus and our focus as a team is to play the six across the net from us regardless of level.”
Ninth-year coach Shawn Wilson said that he’s happy to see the Panthers back in 4A after several years – and a pair of state championships – at the 3A level.
“The 4A versus 3A thing really fluctuates in talent some years where one year 4A is definitely stronger and other years 3A is the tougher class,” Wilson said. “I think last year the 4A schools were tougher, but those schools also lost some key kids, so we will find out more throughout the season.”
Regardless of classification, the Panthers are once again set up for success. Returning from last year’s title squad along with Durgan are fellow seniors Romy Tyler and Audriana Spielman –both of whom are outside hitters. Mead in total has eight seniors on the roster, which offers key experience across the court for Wilson.
“Every team is different in how the leaders emerge and with this large of a senior group we have some more vocal girls and some more quiet leaders,” Wilson said. “But what we’re seeing so far is that all of them want to lead by example.” Tyler, a second-team all-GSL selection last season, sees Durgan as the perfect example of that leadership style.
“Ava is probably my favorite player that I’ve played next to and she deserves where she’s at and what’s she’s earned,” Tyler said. “We’ve played together since seventh grade and I’ve loved seeing how much she has grown as a player and leader – but that all comes from the fact that she puts in the work to be that good.”
More proof of this unit’s cohesion lies in what they consider to be their strength on the court. For a team returning three front-row attackers, playing good defense gets them more excited
than anything else.
“We have dominant hitters, but our setters and our defense are also clicking at a really high level right now,” Durgan said. “We have a huge advantage with our offense, but the rest of the game needs to be sound as well to succeed.
“Being in the middle I get a lot of action both on offense and defense, but for me a big block gets me more hyped than anything,” she added.
Wilson agreed that he’s seen the girls really focus on keeping every shot alive and then letting their attack finish the points.
“I think this team’s identity right now is more into the defensive side and into blocking, making sure balls don’t hit the ground – they are taking a lot of pride in that,” Wilson said. “We are super explosive offensively and that will be key for us, but if you ask them right now they’d tell you that their competitive nature really comes out on defense.”
Luckily for the Panthers, they have one of the state’s best players in both attacking and blocking in Durgan. But Wilson is quick to praise his senior leader for her understanding that she can’t succeed without also lifting up her teammates.
“Ava is an elite-level athlete, but she still understands that this is a team sport,” he said. “She knows that without
GIRLS SOCCER AT A GLANCE
players, but all-league senior Rylee Pfeifer who had 31 goals with eight assists and junior all-leaguer Sienna Breneman, 16 goals with 16 assists, return to the squad to bolster the attack.
East Valley (11-7-0, 6-4, third): “Our incoming freshmen will play a huge role in dictating our route for the season as we are a young team,” third-year coach Rik Robles said. Senior forward Alexis Griswold and juniors Hayden Anderson (F) and Abby Moore (MF) are key returners.
North Central (3-11-0, 1-8): “We are excited for the new start and new teams we will be competing against this season,” coach Matt Leonard said about the move to a 2A schedule. The Wolfpack return 14 letterwinners and seven
VOLLEYBALL AT A GLANCE
By Madison McCord FOR THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
Capsules for the 2024 Greater Spokane League volleyball teams. In alphabetical order by classification. Records and standings from 2023 season.
GSL 4A Ferris (10-9, 4-5, sixth): The Saxons will look to return to the state stage for the second-straight season, while running everything through returning all-GSL honorable mention setter Kjersti Jacobson – who competed on the U16 All-Star Evergreen Region team this summer. Also back for coach Staci Hazelbaker is senior middle Olivia Hart and junior outside Callie Hutchison. Gonzaga Prep (18-3, 9-1, second): Coach Nikki Leonard is back for her second year, but will have to replace some key players from last year’s talented squad. Gone is league MVP Lilli Etter and first-team selection Maddie Finnegan, but the Bullpups do return sisters Emma and Mara Sandberg – both of whom were second-team selections a year ago. Lewis and Clark (9-11, 4-5, seventh): No information provided. Mead (17-1, 10-0, first): The Panthers quest for a second-straight state title will be paced by the return of state player of the year Ava Durgan and all-GSL second-team selection Romy Tyler. Coach Shawn Wilson also has plenty of experience on the court with eight seniors on the squad.
GSL 3A
Central Valley (7-11, 6-3, fourth): Collegiate-bound talents Maddy Joswick (Washington State) and Tatyana Jennings (Cal Poly Humbolt) hope to get the Bears back to state for the first time since 2021. Fourth-year coach Kazlyn Roullier returns six letterwinners to a squad that will drop down to the 3A ranks.
Cheney (5-10, 1-8, ninth): Blackhawks coach Shellie Klinkenberg returns a young core from last season, led by outside hitter CeCe Martin and libero Claire Watkins. “This group of girls is a tight-knit group. They know each other’s strengths and weaknesses and work really well together,” Klinkenberg said.
Mt. Spokane (12-5, 6-3, third): Darcy McMurray, who led Clackamas, Oregon, to state for three years, takes over as coach of the Wildcats, who return nine letterwinners from last year’s team that placed fifth at state. “There were huge contributors who graduated,” McMurray said. “But we have a strong core of returners.” Ridgeline (10-7, 5-4, fifth): Fourthyear coach Whitney Abell returns seven seniors, including Araleigh Arnold and Brooklyn Hillman –who have committed to University of Providence Montana (NAIA) and Rahni Greene, who has committed to play for Cal Poly Humbolt State (D2).
Shadle Park (16-4, 9-1, first 2A): Gone is two-time GSL 2A MVP Abbey Flerchinger, but longtime coach Brooke Meyer returns seven letter winners off of last year’s first-place squad. Firstteam libero Haylie Steel and second-team middle hitter Teagan Schroeder will lead the Highlanders in their return to the 3A ranks.
University (7-10, 2-8, eighth): No information provided.
GSL 2A
the people around her, she can’t do the things she wants and is able to do. It’s really nice to have that firepower and athleticism, but she knows that it has to go through the whole team.”
Following this year, Durgan will take her talents to the University of San Diego, where she committed to last summer.
“My biggest thing in finding the right program was going to a place that really runs their middles on offense and defense, and that’s a big focal point of what San Diego does,” Durgan said. “And once I went for a visit I just fell in love with the campus, coaches and their culture.”
Before she can turn her attention to the Toreros, Durgan and the Panthers must battle through a gantlet of a schedule – which includes defending 4A champion Wenatchee and a trip to Phoenix for the Nike Tournament of Champions – in hopes of being ready for another deep run at the Yakima Valley SunDome in November.
“It doesn’t feel like we are pressured to win a state title again,” Durgan said. “Our mentality is to play as hard as we did last year, fill the holes left by graduating three starters, and get back to that level. I think this group can be even better than last year – we just have to work as hard, if not harder, than we did in the past and not back down.”
starters, including honorable mention all-league senior GK Abby Liezen and fellow seniors Tierney Warren (D) and Ava Gomez (MF). Pullman (6-11-1, 3-7, fourth): Seven
starters return for second-year coach Katie Evermann, including senior all-league picks Lillian Cobos (GK) and Amelia Cobos (MF). Rogers (2-13, 0-10, sixth): Without a true JV team, the Pirates always take time to acclimate to game play. They are young again this season as six starters graduated including co-captains and second-team all-league players Emily Peabody and Lydia Hogan. Head coach Mike Duke is in his sixth season and he hopes to see growth through the league season and to cause havoc for some of the top teams.
West Valley (21-1-0, 10-0): The Eagles didn’t take an “L” last season until the state championship game and seventh-year coach CC Collins returns 11 letterwinners and seven starters from that squad. League offensive MVP Jenna Howe enters her junior season, while captains Ashlyn Chase (MF) and Claire Busse (MF) are returning first-team all-leaguers. “We have big goals to win state this year,” Collins said.
NEA
Colville (3-13-0, 2-9, sixth): Sixth-year coach Tasha Luu has seven starters back, including senior leaders Kalista Malone (FW) and Payton Erma (D). “With nine incoming freshman we are a very young team that will improve as the season continues,” Luu said. “I look forward to the growth that will come as we get game time against competitive opponents”
Clarkston (8-11, 4-6, fourth): First-year coach Margie Denton lost six seniors from last year’s team but does return three starters and six letterwinners. Senior outside hitter Ella Leavitt and setter Hayley Barnea hopes to guide the Bantams back toward the top of the standings. Deer Park (11-8, 7-5, third NEA): New coach Kirsten Pinkney will be tasked with the challenge of moving up from the 1A ranks to 2A for the Stags, but she has plenty of experience back. Senior outside hitters Camryn Chapman and Caitlyn Watson should provide the spark for Deer Park, while the defense will be led by senior libero Emma Brownell.
East Valley (3-14, 2-8, fifth): No information provided.
North Central (3-13, 0-9, 10th 3A/4A): Coach Karrie Delp is back for her fourth season in charge of the Wolfpack and will lean on a pair of experienced seniors in outside hitter Amanda Schwahn and setter Jaela Susemiehl. “I think we will compete with most everyone in 2A. But that’ll mean running the gauntlet to even have a shot at postseason through the 3A teams,” Delp said.
Pullman (15-7, 7-3, third): Sixth-year coach Megan McNannay will have some holes to fill after losing three all-league players from last year’s team that took sixth at state. Back though is second-team middle blocker Jasmyne Washington, one of three returning starters for the Greyhounds.
Rogers (1-16, 0-10, sixth): Coach Amy Gipe brings back four varsity players from last year’s squad, led by the trio of Maya Valerio, Hayley Ying and Cydney Pernell. “The focus this season is on reception excellence and having well-rounded defense,” Gipe said. West Valley (11-6, 8-2, second): Last year’s GSL 2A coach of the year Mark Weis returns four starters off of a team that took second in 2A a season ago. Leading the charge will be first-team selections Kendall Focht (setter) and Hailey Colyar (outside), along with second-team libero Khloe Wanberg and middle blocker Macy Osborn.
Lakeside (14-5-1, 10-1, first): The Eagles are in a bit of a rebuilding mode as Ayanna Tobeck, the league MVP and Meliah Servatius, a first-team all-league player, graduated. Injuries and other departures have left an inexperienced squad, specifically in the sense that they haven’t spent many minutes together. Third-year head coach Wayne Ferris said everyone will have to learn quickly and he will be looking for players to assert themselves as difference makers. Riverside (11-8, 8-4, fourth): Another first-year head coach in the area as Matty Smith takes the reigns for the Rams. Two starters graduated from the fourth-place team, all-league forward Ashlee Clausen and all-league goalie Mariah Mally. Four players expect to take on larger roles: seniors Haley Kasinger, Lainey Schweiger and Rylee Saguid and junior Mikaela Davis.
Mead middle hitter Ava Durgan poses after practice last week.
PHOTOS BY MADISON MCCORD/THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
Mead volleyball coach Shawn Wilson talks with his team during a practice last week at Mead High School.
IN HER SIGHTS
LC star Katie Lubbe runs toward bright future
By Greg Lee THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
Big brain. Big heart. Big smile.
“That best describes Katie,” Lewis and Clark girls cross country coach Maegan Gomes said of her senior standout, Katie Lubbe.
Lubbe is a leader in and out of the classroom. She and her twin sister, Lauren, are ranked at the top of the class with weighted 4.381 gradepoint averages and will be in contention for salutatorian honors. She wants to leave a mark, though, on cross country. She will be looking to qualify for the State 4A meet for a fourth year this fall.
Lubbe is the top returning runner in the Greater Spokane League. She will be pushed by Missouri transfer Mariah Denney, who has landed at University. She took fourth at state last year in a time of 18 minutes, 34.2 seconds.
Lubbe was 36th at state as a freshman, 19th as a sophomore and three spots out of earning a medal before slipping to 26th last year.
She’s set her sights high this year. She wants to finish in the top 10 at state and lead her team to a podium finish (top four). LC took second in her freshman season.
Six of seven Tigers who ran at state last year return. So LC has high expectations.
“She’s just the perfect example of somebody who has gotten better and better since her freshman year,” Gomes said. Last year, she was LC’s leader in each race by an average of 40 seconds. That margin could grow this year but not because her team has digressed – quite the opposite. Lubbe expects to be much improved and she sees much improvement from her teammates. She averaged 30-40 miles training each day this summer. The goal wasn’t miles but quality.
“It was more about intensity,” Lubbe said. “I want to have a better finishing kick this year.”
Lubbe set her personal best last year when she finished in
18 minutes, 42.2 seconds at the Battle for the 509, a meet hosted by Cheney at the Spokane Polo Grounds. It’s a flat course that inspires hot times. She hopes to shave more than 30 seconds off and get into the low 18s. The state meet was an aberration for Lubbe last year. It was a rain-filled race and slippery course at Sun Willows Golf Course in Pasco. She slipped and fell going down a hill.
“I wasn’t happy with my race last year,” Lubbe said. “It wasn’t my day. The weather got to me a little bit. Mentally I was stressed out and wasn’t as confident going into the race.”
She wants to make amends for that this fall. To that end, she will approach each race as preparation for state.
In the classroom, meanwhile, Lubbe has never had less than an A. She hopes to add to her GPA this year by taking four challenging advance placement classes: environmental science, calculus, government and psychology. She’s also taking Honors Spanish 4 and creative writing. Her daily routine is defined. Classes, two-hour practice, a 30-minute break when she gets home before dinner and diving into homework.
“I try to get to bed at a decent time,” she said, smiling. She already knows what she wants to pursue in college. The daughter of a cardiologist and physical therapist, Lubbe wants to be a veterinarian. She’s visiting Washington State and is looking at Oregon State, Washington,
“
Montana State, Montana and Colorado State. If it works out she may even run in college.
“I’ve always had a passion for animals and always wanted to be a vet since I was very young,” said Lubbe, whose grandfather was a veterinarian.
“She’s on a high trajectory,” Gomes said. “What I love about her is she has the biggest heart and biggest engine and biggest smile, and she’s a rock star in the classroom.”
In cross country, Lubbe feels like she turned a corner last season – the state meet notwithstanding.
“So I’m excited for this year to push more and see what happens,” she said. “I really want to improve at state and push myself in every race.”
Now she awaits the results.
she’s just the perfect example of somebody who has gotten better and better since her freshman year.”
Maegan Gomes Lewis and Clark girls cross country coach
CROSS COUNTRY AT A GLANCE
Capsules for the 2024 Greater Spokane League, Northeast A and North Idaho cross country teams. In alphabetical order by classification. Records and standings from 2023 season.
GSL 4A/3A Central Valley (boys 4-5, girls 0-9): Boys coach Chuck Bowden sees many things he likes about his team, reminding him of some of the past highly successful Bears teams. Senior Aaron Wright is the top returning among five who took 25th at state last year. Another state qualifier back is junior John Troxel. CV drops from 4A to 3A. They’re not ready to challenge Mt. Spokane and Cheney, but the Bears will be much improved. On the girls side, Mackenzie Munn and Adalyn Depew return to the building program, with freshman Aubrey Harvey one to watch. Cheney (boys 7-2, girls 5-4): The Blackhawks boys have never beaten Lewis and Clark and Mt. Spokane and this could be the breakthrough year as they return their lineup intact. Cheney returns senior Calvin Hilton, who took ninth at state last year. He is joined by seniors Holland Hurd, Lucas Matos, Cameron Frenk and Yuta Inoue, junior Ethan Martin and sophomore Sam Hilton. The Blackhawks are ranked sixth in the preseason poll. The girls return six of seven state qualifiers led by Hannah Ward and Maggie Boggs. Ferris (boys 2-7, girls 8-1): The Saxons move up to 4A. The boys didn’t have a state qualifier in a challenging league. The girls could give favored Lewis and Clark its biggest challenge. They return five led by junior state qualifiers Darla Kelly and Ella Menard, who were 31st and 32nd respectively at state.
Gonzaga Prep (boys 1-8, girls 2-7): The Bullpups boys team returns five starters, led by state qualifier junior Zach Frazier and GSL freshman champion last season Ian Kleiderer. Lewis and Clark (boys 9-0, girls 7-2): The Tigers boys are the defending league champ and return six of seven. They’re ranked sixth in the preseason poll. Seniors Parker Whitmore, Harper Churape, Toby Meier and Brody Graham along with standout sophomore Elijah Tobin. LC’s push to repeat will be challenged by Cheney and Mt. Spokane. Interestingly, the three teams meet in the final dual of the season at Manito Park. In the girls, the Tigers return six of seven state qualifiers led by Katie Lubbe. Also back are Charlotte Burns, Amelia Carlson, Kate Anderson, Ella Kizziar, Ava Nelson and Ada Nance. LC is favored to win the league title and ranked ninth in the preseason poll.
Mead (boys 5-4, girls 9-0): The boys return senior Jaedon Phillips, 16th at state last year. The girls graduated their top three runners from a year ago and will turn to a young group to rebuild a league title team.
Mt. Spokane (boys 8-1, girls 6-3):
The Wildcats, ranked second in the preseason poll, boast the top one-two punch in the GSL in seniors Kade Brownell and Parker Westermann, who finished fourth and sixth respectively at state last year. They’re joined by newcomer Gatlin Michaelsen, a sophomore who played football last year after a highly successful cross country career in middle school. He’s expected to have an immediate impact. There will be a battle to determine the fourth through seventh spots. In the girls, the Wildcats return junior Jane Wycoff, who was 21st at state a year ago, along with Ainsley Brown and Brianna McKell. Ridgeline (boys 0-9, girls 4-5): The Falcons boys return five. They are Nolan Rabe, Keean Huntsinger, Oliver Taylor, Landon Spinning and JJ Hosig. Overall, Ridgeline coach Peter McArthur says his team is young. The girls bring back four in state qualifier Paige Huntsinger, Grethyn Carter, Rachel Christensen and Sierra Tate. The Falcons have been mentioned as a team to keep an eye on.
Shadle Park (boys 6-0, girls 1-4): The Highlanders boys were district champs last year and finished sixth at state. Four state participants return for second-year coach Rob Warnock: seniors Egan Johnson and Lucas Reynolds, and sophomores Becks Bird and Ray Gleason. University (boys 3-6, girls 3-6): The Titans posted a victory in the offseason. They welcome transfer Mariah Denney from Missouri. Denney placed fourth at state as a freshman and
See CROSS COUNTRY AT A GLANCE, 7
SENIOR STANDOUT BROWNELL FOCUSED ON BIG GOALS
By Greg Lee
THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
Kade Brownell is poised to have his best cross country season ever.
The Mt. Spokane senior will have two months to watch it play out. He was clearly the best runner in the Greater Spokane League last fall and he’s likely to repeat that this year.
Fourth at the State 3A meet last year, Brownell is aiming much higher this season. To get where he wants to go he’ll have to knock off the defending champ and runner-up.
“I want to win state,” Brownell said. “I’m going to have to have a really good race. I don’t think I can win if I have a bad race.”
Count Mt. Spokane coach Scott Daratha, a longtime coach in the area, as a believer in Brownell.
“He just has to believe he can run with them,” Daratha said of Brownell’s potential to contend for a state title. “He can run with anybody in the country. He’s a 4:10 miler and a nine-minute 2-miler. There aren’t too many people around doing much better than that.”
Brownell is coming off his most challenging summer of training. Not so much for the number of miles run, but the quality. “I focused my training regime on running up elevation,” Brownell said. “I’m way better because I’m running farther with way more ease. I really pushed myself.”
It helps that the second-best runner in the GSL is a teammate – Parker Westermann, also a senior. They will battle all fall.
“He’s only going to improve more this fall,” Westermann said of Brownell. “I think I’ve closed the gap. It’s been my best year of training.”
The Mt. Spokane duo will be chased by a handful of quality runners.
“They both could be in the top five at
state,” Cheney coach Derek Slaughter said. Lewis and Clark coach Michael Lee has much respect for Brownell.
“He’s just one of those classic GSL ultra-talented runners that we’ve had over the years,” Lee said. “He’s as good as any of them.” Brownell and Westermann are courting recruiters. Both went on a weekend visit recently to Gonzaga. Missouri, Washing-
ton State and Arizona are in Brownell’s top four.
Brownell is chasing Mt. Spokane’s school record set by one of the top runners to come out of Spokane, John Dressel. He went on to run at Colorado. Brownell will have to crack 15 minutes to have a shot.
“He’ll definitely be a better runner this year,” Daratha said. “The school record is right there in his reach.”
Brownell wants to pursue a career in law enforcement. His father is a detective in the Spokane Police Department. First he wants to get a degree in accounting.
“My dad said a degree in accounting will take me further in law enforcement,” said Brownell, who carries a 3.94 grade-point average. Brownell hopes to bump his GPA to 4.0 with some advance placement classes this year.
Brownell said defending GSL champ Lewis and Clark and Cheney are the favorites to win the league title. The league schedule is set up perfectly. The league title will be decided in the final race when LC, Cheney and Mt. Spokane face off at Manito Park. LC and Cheney both return their teams intact. But Brownell isn’t conceding anything.
“We have the ability to win state,” Brownell said. “It’s whether the individuals on our team decide to push themselves to the next level and become uncomfortable while running.”
COLIN MULVANY/THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW Lewis and Clark cross country runner Katie Lubbe.
Learning to cope with anxiety, Dinnen shows her strength in, out of pool
‘MIND OVER MATTER’
By Samantha DiMaio THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
As she stepped up to the block her sophomore year at East Valley High School, Brigid Dinnen began to quiver. The blurred pool below her seemed daunting and her mind filled with “what ifs” as fast as her steady breathing turned to hyperventilating. The only thing that seemed to help was grounding herself, both literally and figuratively. Dinnen knew this was more than just nerves.
“It’s kind of like ‘I’m not really in control of anything’ and I hate that,” she said.
Dinnen has been swimming ever since “Mommy and Me” classes as a child. This led her to sign up for lessons and eventually join the recreational team at the YMCA. From there, she became a member of Spokane Area Swimming, which soon became Vandal Aquatic Club. She has been competing with this club since she was 8 years old.
She tried other sports, like basketball and soccer, but swimming won out when it came time to commit to a single activity during her middle school years.
“I think we all knew that I was just a swimmer,” Dinnen said. In elementary school, Dinnen heard about the swim team at East Valley – which consisted of only one person. When she began high school, she single-handedly became their new team. Considering there is no pool and no other members at East Valley, Dinnen drives to Eastern Washington University to join Cheney High School’s practice every day of the season, which runs from the end of August through the middle of November. If there is traffic or a wreck on the freeway, it can become an hour-plus commute.
Not only does she commit to high school practice and meets
during the fall, but she also continues to swim for her club team year-round. This means there are days when she goes to club practice at 5:15 a.m., then attends school and goes to high school practice immediately after the final bell rings. She does, however, give herself two months off throughout the year to recharge.
She has learned to prioritize her family, friends and academics to strike a balance between swimming and the rest of her life.
“Your life does not have to revolve around your sport,” Dinnen said.
Following an impressive win at State her first year on the team, Dinnen felt an overwhelming lull in her life. The high of intense competition and reward ceased with the end of the high school season and she decided to
COUNTRY AT A GLANCE
Continued from 6
Other top returners are the Roberts sisters, Kyla and Libby, and Chloe Nelson. Coach Todd Hawley reports the largest turnout ever for summer training.
GSL 2A
Clarkston (boys 0-5, girls 1-4): The Bantams have just three seniors between the two teams: girls Claire Dooley and Taylor Celigoy and boys Jacen Farrally. Two freshman girls, Lexii York and Elise Stoffregen, are expected to help right away on varsity. East Valley (boys 1-4, girls 4-1): Gone is two-time state champ Logan Hoffstee, but the Knights return six led by seniors Veronica Garcia and Rachel Metge and sophomore Nellie Goggin. Knights will battle Pullman and
take some time off to rediscover her love for the sport. Rather than forcing her to continue simply going through the motions at practice, her club coaches were unceasingly supportive of her dilemma, and she soon returned with a new outlook.
“We are incredibly proud of her commitment to investing in her self-growth,” Vandal Aquatic Club coach Jody Broyles said.
During her hiatus, Dinnen learned several new methods for coping with her anxiety and panic attacks. She created a preparation routine to give her a sense of control, which includes taking deep breaths, listening to Disney music, tuning out any distractions and visualizing a successful and enjoyable performance. She also fights off hypothetical thoughts about the distant future and false notions that
West Valley for league title. The boys return four. They are led by seniors David Bailey, Oscar Coronel and Patrick Scott.
North Central (boys 6-3, girls 1-8): The boys team finished fourth in the 3A ranks last season and figures to be competitive down a level. Junior Levi Aden, who finished 19th at state last season, should be a leader. Just two seniors on the squad. Pullman (boys 3-2, girls 4-1): The Greyhounds girls were league champs last year and figure to battle again. They return state qualifiers Ada Harris, Alison Hathaway, Chloe Jones and Jordan Hendrickson. In the boys, Blake Dobbins, Felix Fisher, Jude Newbold and Paul Genz all returns. Rogers (boys 2-3, girls 1-4): In the boys, the Pirates return state qualifiers Daniel Villarreal and Jared Fulcher along with Adan Alegria. Rogers hasn’t qualified a team to state in 50 years and the Pirates believe this could be the year. Three freshmen are vying for starting spots. Ashlie Murie takes over the young girls team led by sophomore Addy Steppe.
she will let everyone down if she does not succeed.
“The only time I allow myself to think about it is behind the blocks,” Dinnen said.
Upon returning her sophomore year, Dinnen placed second at State. Though her perfectionist mindset was not initially satisfied with this result, she has since learned to be proud of her performance and recognized that second place is still an incredible accomplishment. However, her humility still prevents her from sharing the news with others.
When people ask how her season was, she responds with a simple, “pretty good.” Her friends are the ones that chime in with the fact that she placed at state and won the previous year.
Dinnen has come a long way since experiencing her first
West Valley (boys 4-1, girls 4-1): In the boys, the Eagles return Kenton Bell, Evan McKenzie and Caden Hoskinson. Coach Mark Esvelt expects league to be competitive with a lot of mystery since all programs lost much to graduation.
NEA
Colville: The Crimson Hawks return 13 of 14 boys and girls starters including all the boys. Sophomore Malik Ortiz leads the boys, who are ranked 10th in the preseason poll. He placed 17th at state last year. Also back are Dane Hoogstad, Isaiah Ortiz, Liam Webster and Issac Balance. Leading the girls are returning district champ Zadi Zier, a junior who placed 27th at state, and senior Eliza Fazzari. Lakeside: The Eagles girls are ranked No. 1 in the preseason poll and Medical Lake is tabbed third. Not surprising since they’re coming off a state title and will be seeking a threepeat this fall. The top returners are Sadie Meyring, Olivia Divine, Jillian Owen, Ava Meusy and Avery Owen. The boys are ranked fifth in
panic attack on her high school swim team. Her parents, coaches, teammates and the rest of her community of supporters have made a huge difference. When her anxiety surprises her, she turns to these people and her own skills to get through it.
“Swimming is mindset,” Dinnen said. “Sure, some of it is physical; you need to be strong, but then again, you need to be mentally strong.”
Looking toward the future, Dinnen is seeking a college that not only allows her to continue swimming at a competitive level but also affords her the opportunity to continue her education and, more specifically, obtain a degree in nursing. She has always been interested in science and the human body, so much so that she asked for a stethoscope for her third birthday.
“There is a time where swimming stops,” Dinnen said. “I need to have an education and do what I want to do in life.”
Swimming at a glance
Clarkston: The program won a couple of state awards last season and has nine letterwinners returning, including Graycie Graham who was the state champion in the 50-yard freestyle adaptive swim.
Cheney: The Blackhawks, district champions last fall, have four returning starters, featuring seniors Lauren Howe (sprint freestyle) and Joyalise O’Dell (mid-distance). Lewis and Clark: Sophomore Ava Swigart was the state champ in 200- and 500-yard freestyle last season. The LC team is up to 13 participants from the four last year who placed fifth at districts.
Pullman: The Greyhounds have had a great recent run at state, finishing first, fourth and second the past three seasons. Leading this year’s edition is two-time state placer senior Bree Myers (100-yard backstroke) and sophomore Hazel Edge (100yard breaststroke).
the preseason rankings and Medical Lake is eighth. The boys are led by Garrett Russell, Tom Smith, Luke Tremblay, Lane Rippy and Silas Kaluza.
Idaho Coeur d’Alene: Emry Carr takes over as head coach of the boys and girls after Cathy Compton, coach for 28 years, retired. Coeur d’Alene won six state titles under Compton including the Idaho boys title last year. The Viks return five of their seven runners in senior twins Maximum Cervi-Skinner and Zack Cervi-Skinner and Kyle Rohling, junior Mitchell Rietze and sophomore Wyatt Carr. The Viks have a host of talented underclassmen pushing for varsity spots. CdA is ranked ninth in the nation by Milesplits and No. 1 in the Pacific Northwest. They are favored to be the top team in Idaho and the region again. The girls are led by juniors Olivia May and Dakota Kenworth. A pair of senior transfers will be in the mix in Zara Munyer and Sonja Jones along with seniors Chloe Frank and Lana Fletcher.
READY TO ROAR
By Dave Nichols
SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
THE
“Look Good, Feel Good, Play Good” is a motto developed by a national sportswear company to sell women’s clothing and shoes. But it’s also a philosophy that has been co-opted by sports figures across the gamut of sports.
The Lewis and Clark softball program has put that motto to practical use at Hart Field.
Over the past couple of seasons, the renovations and refurbishment of the field and dugouts have helped spur a resurgence and growth of the program, including the slowpitch program in the fall.
Evidence? The Tigers had 30 players turn out for the varsity and JV teams this season.
“I took over during COVID,” coach Jason Wederspahn said. “So coming out of that timeframe in our society at that point, it’s been really cool to see the girls get back active, be part of the team. And I really think some of the changes we made around here, it’s shown a huge impact for the girls. They’re coming around, being part of a team, engaging, looking forward to just being active again.” Wederspahn sees the influx of softball players on South Hill down to the youth level.
“We’ve had a surge of young softball girls coming in each of the last three years – we’ve had probably four to five good freshmen that are entering the program,” he said. “To have that kind of consistency year over year, I think it’s been amazing to see. And I think a big part is just looking at the facilities and the changes we’ve made, the girls are really buying into that.”
“Participation is up – and also the quality of participation is up,” junior first baseman Vien-
Revamped Hart Field sparks new energy for Lewis and Clark slowpitch softball
na Klein said. “I think it’s really, really great compared to when I started here. Everybody on this team wants to be here, wants to play softball, every day wants to get better. It just makes the program a better place, and it makes us more competitive.”
The changes to Hart Field might not be quite as big as the renovations going on at Avista Stadium this fall – but not far off, relatively speaking. Through fundraising and donations, the Tigers softball program has been able to bring in close to 20 tons of new, high-quality soil, a new batter’s box, a clay brick foundation at the pitching rubber and edging the outfield line to make it look dimensional.
SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL AT A GLANCE
By Dave Nichols
THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW
Capsules for the 2024 Greater Spokane League slowpitch softball teams. In alphabetical order. Records and standings from 2023 season. Central Valley (14-11, 7-5): The Bears are young but experienced, led by all-league selections junior Ella Bendele (OF) and sophomore Shilo McCoy (SS). Six letterwinners – all starters – return for veteran coach Joe Stanton. Cheney (6-12, 5-8): Firstyear coach Makayla Shay has five letterwinners back, including starters senior Allie Halverson (SS),
junior Sierra Mendoza (OF) and sophomore utility Millie Beito, an all-league honorable mention pick. Freshman first base Rheylyn Kucirka should provide a spark.
East Valley (4-11, 3-9): The Knights return five starters for firstyear coach Justin Sinn, who also coaches baseball at EV. Junior infielder JC Weger and seniors Shelby Swanson and Lacy Akre are leaders. “We are looking to improve on last year’s record by incorporating more athleticism and precision hitting into our game plan,” Sinn said. Ferris (9-11, 6-7): Linda Bushinski has been the only slowpitch coach for the Saxons since the return of the varsity sport in 2005.
“We are very fortunate to have a tremendous, tremendous support system with our parents,” Wederspahn said. “They are very highly involved, whether it’s through raising money, through donations of sponsors, whether it’s donating their time to come out and help with it.”
In addition, new team banners adorn the dugouts and outfield wall, and advertising banners are draped on the outfield wall to give the Hart Field facility a “professional” feel. The team has also been able to upgrade uniforms and equipment.
“You see in the girls, and they walk in, they feel good, they carry themselves a little different,” Wederspahn said. “You’ve got the matching gear, new uni-
She has three starters back from last season – seniors Cadence Hyndman (OF), Donyelle Strauss (3B) and Marrin Teel (UTL). “If we play as a team and to our ability consistently, we will be super competitive,” Bushinski said. Gonzaga Prep (5-13, 4-8): No information provided.
Lewis and Clark (5-14, 3-9):
The Tigers return 11 letterwinners and five starters, including slugging 1B Vienna Klein and second base Izzy Heister, both juniors. “With only two seniors on our roster we’re still very young on paper but have a lot of varsity experience for our age,” coach Jason Wederspahn said.
Mead (15-4, 10-2): Junior all-league catcher Jaycee Coffield leads seven starters back for eight-year coach Tiffany Casedy. “Our strength will be our team chemistry,” Casedy said. “They understand each other and their roles to be successful.” Senior third base Sophia Carpenter and juniors
forms. It just brings a smile on their face. So I think that’s a big part of it too.”
“The LC community, LC parents and the coaches have been working really hard,” Klein said. “There’s obviously a bunch of new sponsors on the field. All the posters that are up. And they’ve worked on the quality of the field itself. So leveling the dirt out, making sure the edges are clean. Just making sure that the field is as good of a quality as they can.”
“Look Good, Feel Good, Play Good,” right?
The Tigers finished 5-14 overall, 3-9 in league last season. They hope the “play good” part really kicks into gear this season.
Hope Murdock (SS) and Mia Martin (2B/P) are key returners.
Mt. Spokane (20-2, 11-1):
The defending State 3A champion reloads under 12th-year coach Carl Adams. There are 11 letterwinners and seven starters back, led by junior 1B Addison Jay and junior OF Kaydin Bradeen. “We return a strong core and this group has shown that they want to work hard to improve every day,” Adams said. North Central (0-15, 0-12): No information reported. Ridgeline (14-6, 9-3): Seniors Emma Myers (SS) and Lilley Triplett (OF) lead eight starters returning for third-year coach Lori Maupin. “We are creating a positive atmosphere where we work hard to win games,” Maupin said. The Falcons will search early in the season to find consistency in the pitching circle. Rogers (4-12, 3-9): All-league honorable mentions Haley Bernard (P) and Taylor Hoffman (3B) lead
“We are still young,” Wederspahn said. “We still only carry two seniors on our varsity roster. But even though we’re young, we’re not inexperienced on a varsity playing field.”
Two of those experienced players that will be counted on to lead – on and off the field –this season are Klein and second baseman Izzy Heister –both third-year varsity juniors. Heister hit .527 last season, setting the table, and Klein cleaned it up with six homers, 21 RBIs and 24 runs while hitting .467.
“I think we can provide a very powerful lineup,” Heister said. “With (Klein’s) bat – she hits a lot of home runs. She’s was very impressive last season. I’m known for hitting things in the gap and just scoring runs. So I think between the two of us, we’re going to score a lot of runs.”
“This is their third year on varsity,” Wederspahn said. “They’ve been getting high-leverage quality innings. To watch them grow their first couple of years where a lot of times juniors are coming in as their first taste of varsity.”
Slowpitch softball was designed nearly 20 years ago to help increase participation in girls sports in the fall. To this day, most programs carry players looking to get experience playing a varsity sport without having to face a 60-mph fastball. But everyone still wants to win.
“I think it allows girls to be able to build confidence and be able to be on a varsity roster and see what that’s like for fastpitch coming in the spring,” Heister said. “That gives girls the opportunity to understand expectations and to understand what’s required of them and what they need to show to be able to be a varsity athlete.”
six letterwinners and four starters returning for 21-year coach Cris Coffield. “We can score runs but will need to work on our defense,” Coffield said. “We have great pitching and we will need our new freshmen to step right in and contribute.” Shadle Park (9-9, 7-5): The Highlanders return seven starters, led by senior infielder Madi Keon and juniors Laniya Mawdsely (INF) and Bethany Rinas (UTL). “We had our best numbers at tryouts, and we look to stay competitive and in the playoff mix for this season,” sixth-year coach Scott Harmon said. University (21-3, 11-1): The Titans were second at State 3A last season under Jon Schuh in his second stint as head coach. There are 10 letterwinners but just three starters back from that squad, including senior pitcher Anaya Nitschke and juniors utility Claire Fulkerson and OF Hayden Wheeler. Schuh noted some home run potential throughout the lineup.
Lewis and Clark slowpitch softball players Izzy Heister, left, and Vienna Klein posed at Hart Field last week.
Audrey Stanton, an outfielder on the Lewis and Clark slowpitch softball team, installs third base on the reconditioned infield at Hart Field last week.
