Fall Sports 2016

JEFF FIELDER/Star-Herald

Shelby Poynter is aiming to help the Scottsbluff High School girls golf team remain among the state’s best again this fall. Poynter, a junior, is already off to a solid start after placing first at tournaments in Sidney and Cheyenne, Wyoming.

INSIDE Alliance Bulldogs................... 2-4 Banner County Wildcats........ 5-6 Bayard Tigers........................ 6-8 Bridgeport Bulldogs............. 8-10 Chadron Cardinals............. 10-12 Gering Bulldogs................. 13-15

Hemingford Bobcats.......... 16-17 Kimball Longhorns............. 17-19 Leyton Warriors................. 19-20 Lingle-FL Doggers............. 20-21 Minatare Indians................ 21-22 Mitchell Tigers................... 22-24

Morrill Lions....................... 24-25 Potter-Dix Coyotes.................. 26 Scottsbluff Bearcats........... 27-29 Sidney Red Raiders........... 30-31 Southeast Cyclones................ 32 Torrington Trailblazers........ 33-34

Best Of Luck To All Area Teams!

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Fall Sports Preview Page 2

Thursday, August 25, 2016

A

lliance Bulldogs FOOTBALL

JUST SHOOT ME PHOTOGRAPHICS

Here are the members of this year’s Alliance High School football team.

Nickname: Bulldogs Class: B Conference: Western District: B-8 Last year’s record: 4-6, qualified for state playoffs Head coach: Chris Seebohm (2nd year) Returning starters: (8)

Brody Brennan, 6-3, 190, senior, WR/DB; Brendan Brehmer, 6-0, 180, WR/DB; Jack Matulka, 5-11, 195, FB/OLB; Nathan Lauder, 6-0, 260, OL/DL; Lane Lauder, 6-4, 230, OL/DL; Adrian Montemayor, 5-7, 225, OL/DL; Gage Rolls,

6-2, 265, OL/DL; Bryant Wilson, 6-0, 190, OL/MLB Other returning letter winners: Derek Morrison, 6-0, 205, QB; D.J. Martinez, 6-1, 230, OL/DL; Danny Vallejo, 5-10, 160, MLB Season outlook: “I’m looking forward to seeing

what our team can accomplish this season,” Coach Seebohm said. “A lot of our seniors have started for two or more years and have a lot of experience.

We return almost all of our starters on both sides of the ball. I look forward

to seeing what the players who aren’t returning starters do as they step into the varsity position for the first time.”

Schedule Aug. 26 at Chadron Sept. 2 NORTHWEST

Sept. 9 HOLDREGE Sept. 16 at McCook Sept. 23 LEXINGTON Sept. 30 at Hastings Oct. 7 SIDNEY Oct. 14 at Gering Oct. 21 at Scottsbluff

GIRLS GOLF

KYLE CUMMINGS/Alliance Times-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Alliance High School girls golf team.

Nickname: Bulldogs Class: B Conference: Western District: B-4 Head coach: Ryan Waters (Second year) Returning golfers: Katie Failor, senior, ninth-place at Bridgeport; Cherity Bedient, junior; Cherokee Perviance, junior; Miki Schwartz, sophomore Team strengths: “Our top three have several years of high school experience and should be able to use that experience to perform better at each invite,” Coach Waters said.

Team goals: “Last year each of the girls were able to improve their game over the course of the season with several setting new personal records,” Waters said. “We are looking to continue that improvement this year.”

Schedule Aug. 23 Sidney Invite Aug. 29 Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 6 Chadron Invite Sept. 13 Gering Invite Sept. 19 Ogallala Invite Sept. 24 ALLIANCE INVITE (Western Conference)

BOYS TENNIS Nickname: Bulldogs Class: B Head coach: Kathy Brock (Third year) Assistant coach: Sandi Blankenship Returning varsity starters: Richie Toedtli, senior; Trajan Garcia, senior; Preston Pohlman, junior; Dylan Horton, junior; Caden Dean, junior; Zachary Placek, sophomore Returning varsity letter winners: Jake McCaffrey, senior Season outlook: “We have a total of 14 players out this year,” Coach Brock said.

“My newbies are continuing to improve daily and a few are really impressing me with their hard work and effort. Their ability to listen to instruction and then execute what we just suggested

ALLIANCE TIMES-HERALD

Here are the members of this year’s Alliance High School boys tennis team.

is a plus. My upperclassmen them from over the sum- to do better and hopeful- push yourself, no one can didn’t lose anyone from last are looking good. I’ve seen mer. I have a couple that are ly others will follow. That’s do that for you.” year that was on varsity, so some improvement with really pushing themselves our motto this season — to Team strengths: “We that is a plus,” Brock said.

Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

Page 3

VOLLEYBALL

ALLIANCE TIMES-HERALD

Here are the members of this year’s Alliance High School volleyball team.

Volleyball Nickname: Bulldogs Class: B Conference: Western District: B-8 Last year’s record: 14-19, qualified for sub-state Head coach: Angie Hiemstra (8th year as head coach, 20th overall) Returning starters: (4) Kami Felker, 5-8, senior, outside hitter, four-year starter, 18 aces, 166 kills, 11 blocks, 10 assists, 260 digs; Makayla Davidson, 5-8, junior, setter, two-year starter, 11 aces, 82 kills, 10 blocks, 15 assists, 303 digs; Emersen Cyza, 6-1, sophomore, right side, two-year starter, 27 aces, 354 kills, 74 blocks, 73 assists, 258 digs; Ryley Rolls, 5-11, sophomore, middle blocker, two-year starter, 48 kills, 31 blocks, 2 assists, 39 digs Returning letter winners: Elizabeth Johnson, senior, setter; Elizabeth Rivera, senior, defensive specialist; Dani Carter, junior, outside hitter; Haley Hoxworth,

junior, outside hitter; KayLee McDonald, junior, setter Top newcomers: Jordan Hopp, freshman, middle blocker; Josie Otto, junior, middle blocker Season outlook: “I am very optimistic about our season,” Coach Hiemstra said. “Our upperclassmen will provide the experience and leadership our young team will need. Sophomore Emersen Cyza brings a lot of power to everything she does and will open up our offensive possibilities. Ryley Rolls has become more aggressive at the net and will play a critical role in our overall defensive game plan. We will have good height and hope to use that to our advantage at the net. We will continue to work on our passing and serving consistency and hope to become more aggressive on all fronts. Communication and consistency are the keys to our success and we will need to focus to our achieve our goals.”

Top competition: “We view all our

CROSS COUNTRY

Friday, Sept. 2 .............................Gering Saturday, Sept. 10....................Chadron Saturday, Sept. 17........... Alliance Invite Tuesday, Sept. 20 ........................ Bluffs Thursday, Sept. 22 .............. Ogallala Invite Saturday, Oct. 1 .......................Chadron Thursday, Oct. 6 ......................... Sidney Thursday, Oct. 13 ......................Districts Friday, Oct. 21 ........................................... State

VOLLEYBALL

September 1 ................................. @ Scottsbluff September 06 .................................. @ Chadron September 15/16 .....................................Sidney September 20 ......................................... Kimball October 04.......................................... @ Gering October 06.......................................... @ Sidney October 13.............................. Gordon-Rushville October 13...........................................Valentine October 18......................................... Scottsbluff October 25............................................ Chadron

GIRLS’ GOLF

Tuesday, Aug. 23 ..................

Monday, Aug. 29 ...................

Tuesday, Sept. 6 ...................

Sidney Invite Bluffs Invite Chadron

opponents as viable competitors,” Hiemstra said. “There are several teams in the area/state that have strong squads coming back. As we start the season, we will focus on improving our communication and consistency. If we take care of those things, we will be able to compete with anyone.”

Schedule Sept. 1 at Scottsbluff Sept. 6 at Chadron Sept. 15 SIDNEY Sept. 17 at McCook Invite Sept. 20 KIMBALL Sept. 24 at Holdrege Invite Sept. 30-Oct. 1 at Twin Cities Invite Oct. 4 at Gering Oct. 6 at Sidney Oct. 8 Western Conference Tournament at Scottsbluff Oct. 13 at Gordon-Rushville Triangular Oct. 18 SCOTTSBLUFF Oct. 22 ALLIANCE INVITE Oct. 25 CHADRON

Tuesday, Sept. 13 .................

Monday, Sept. 19 ..................

Saturday, Sept. 24.................

Monday, Oct. 3 ......................

Tuesday, Oct. 4 .....................

Monday, Oct. 10 ....................

Tuesday, Oct. 11 ...................

Gering Ogallala Invite Alliance WC Invite Districts Districts State State

FOOTBALL

August 26 ........................................ @ Chadron September 2 .......................................Northwest September 9 ........................................ Holdrege September 16 ................................... @ McCook September 23 ..................................... Lexington September 30 .................................. @ Hastings September 7 ............................................Sidney September 14 ..................................... @ Gering September 21 ............................... @ Scottsbluff

BOYS’ TENNIS

Friday, Sept. 2 .........................................Gillette Saturday, Sept. 3............................. Bluffs Invite Thursday, Sept. 8 .............................. Torrington Friday, Sept. 9 ........................ North Platte Dual Saturday, Sept. 10............ North Platte Tourney Tuesday, Sept. 13 ............... JV vs Bluffs/Gering

762-6980 | 1508 West 3rd, Alliance, NE

JEFF FIELDER/Star-Herald

Alliance’s Kami Felker passes during last year’s Class B, District 8 Tournament in Sidney. Felker is one of four returning starters back for the Bulldogs this season.

Friday, Sept. 16 .................................. Lexington Friday, Sept. 23 .................................... Kearney Saturday, Sept. 24...................... Hastings Invite Tuesday, Sept. 27 ..................... Bluffs & Gering Tuesday, Oct. 4 .....................................McCook Thursday, Oct. 13 ...................................... State Friday, Oct. 14 ........................................... State

SOFTBALL

Saturday, Aug. 20............................... Lexington Thursday, Aug. 25 ................................ Chadron Tuesday, Aug. 30 .................................... Gering Saturday, Sept. 3......................... McCook Invite Tuesday, Sept. 6 .......................................Bluffs Friday, Sept. 9 .......................

Bluffs Tourney Saturday, Sept. 10.......................Bluffs Tourney Tuesday, Sept. 13 ................................ Chadron Saturday, Sept. 17................. North Platte Invite Tuesday, Sept. 20 .....................................Bluffs Saturday, Sept. 24..................... JV Quad Home Tuesday, Sept. 27 ................................... Gering Saturday, Oct. 1 ................................... Chadron Thursday, Oct. 6 & 7 ............................. Districts Wed, Thur, Fri .......................................... State

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Fall Sports Preview Page 4

Thursday, August 25, 2016

SOFTBALL

JUST SHOOT ME PHOTOGRAPHICS

Here are the members of this year’s Alliance High School softball team.

JEREMY WOZNICK/Star-Herald

Alliance’s Grace Tolstedt pitches during a softball game in Gering last season.

Tolstedt is one of eight returning starters for the Bulldogs.

Nickname: Bulldogs Class: B Conference: Western District: B-6 Last year’s record: 1-21 Head coach: Carlos Palomo (Second year) Assistant coaches: Brian Johnston, Brandt Banzhaf Returning starters: (8) Grace Tolstedt, junior, pitcher, infielder; Sariah Grant, senior, utility; Samantha Carrillo, senior, utility; Peyton Stoike, senior, utility; Isabel Aguallo, senior, utility; Amanda Russell, sophomore, catcher, infield; Elise Stoike, sophomore, second base, outfield; Courtney Little Hoop, senior, utility; Liz Johnson, sophomore, outfield Top newcomers: Jenaye Shoemaker, sophomore, infield; Jaycee Acosta, freshman, pitcher, infield; Erika Bucy, freshman, catcher, utility; Brandi Seebohm, freshman, utility; Luxe West, sophomore, outfield; Aubrey Garrett, freshman, infield; Diana Acosta, sophomore, infield Season outlook: “I expect my team to be very competitive in every ball game this year,” Coach Palomo said. “Returning Grace Tolstedt at pitcher is big for this program. I expect Sariah Grant, Isabel Aguallo, Samantha Carrillo, and Amanda Russell to have a big year. We

are much more athletic this year. Also, have a great amount of depth all around the field.”

Team strengths: “Pitching. Grace Tolstedt racked up 151 strikeouts last year. I expect her to have a big year in the circle,” Palomo said. “One thing I think this team has more of compared to last year is speed. Our softball IQ has improved dramatically.”

Team goals: “Focus on what we can control and that’s giving our best effort each and every game,” Palomo said.

“Compete every pitch.”

Last year’s highlights: “Last year a culture was established here in Alliance,” Palomo noted. “Our record was 1-21 last year. That does not show how much improvement we made as a team last year.

We lost a lot of one-run ball games.”

Former players competing in college: Renata Schoeneman, North Platte Community College Schedule Aug. 25 CHADRON Aug. 30 GERING Sept. 3 at McCook Invite Sept. 6 at Scottsbluff Sept. 9-10 at Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 13 at Chadron Sept. 17 at North Platte Classic Sept. 20 SCOTTSBLUFF Sept. 27 at Gering Oct. 1 at Chadron Triangular

CROSS COUNTRY

KYLE CUMMINGS/Alliance Times

Here are the members of this year’s Alliance High School cross country team.

Girls Class: B Conference: Western District: B-4 Last year’s district finish: Seventh Head coach: Nate Lanik (Second year) Returning varsity letter winners: Kathleen Kuzmic, sophomore, 29th-place district finish Top newcomers: Kenna Romick, senior; Madi Stark, junior Season outlook: “Should be first time in a while that we will have enough girls to compete as a team,” Coach Lanik said. “Young and inexperienced.”

Team strengths: “Have enough girls out to run as

a team,” Lanik said.

Team goals: “Compete and get better as the year progresses,” Lanik noted.

Former runners competing in college: Kelsey Adamson, Chadron State College Schedule Sept. 2 Gering Invite Sept. 10 Chadron Invite Sept. 17 ALLIANCE INVITE Sept. 20 Panhandle Classic at Scottsbluff Sept. 22 Ogallala Invite Oct. 1 Western Conference Oct. 6 Sidney Invite Boys Class: B Conference: Western

District: B-4 Last year’s district finish: Eighth Head coach: Nate Lanik (Second year) Returning varsity letter winners: Tyler Adamson, senior, 18th-place finish at conference, 29th-place at

district; Jorgen Johnson, junior, 26th-place finish at conference, 47th-place at district; Lane Applegarth, junior, 29th-place finish at conference Season outlook: “Lost four of top six runners, so will have spots to fill,”

Coach Lanik said.

Team strengths: “Will have competition for varsity spots,” Lanik said.

Team goals: “Get better as season goes,” Lanik noted.

Schedule Sept. 2 Gering Invite

Sept. 10 Chadron Invite Sept. 17 ALLIANCE INVITE Sept. 20 Panhandle Classic at Scottsbluff Sept. 22 Ogallala Invite Oct. 1 Western Conference Oct. 6 Sidney Invite

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Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

B

Page 5

anner County Wildcats FOOTBALL

Courtesy photo

Here are members of Banner County’s football team.

Nickname: Wildcats Class: Six Man Last year’s season record: 0-8 Head coach: Charles Jones (1st season) Varsity assistant coach: Trey Mosby Returning offensive

starters: 3 Returning defensive starters: 3 Returning starters: Cole Blanke, sr., 6-1, 180, C/NG; James Sandberg, jr., 5-11, 140, WR/DB; Seth Dvorak, so., 5-10, 165, HB/LB Top newcomers: Gage

Alexander, fr., 6-0, 170, QB/LB; Tallion McGowan, sr., 6-2, 160, WR/DE; Brandon Blickensderfer, jr., 6-2, 165, WR/DE; Payton Wick, jr., 5-11, 145, WR/DB; Deven Sullivan, fr., 5-10, 150, WR/DB Season outlook: “We

have a young and inexperienced team with only three returning starters; all of our 11 kids have limited varsity experience,” Coach Jones said. “We are looking to be competitive in all of our games. Our young kids will have to mature quickly and learn to be contributors

quickly.”

Aug. 26 at Cody-Kilgore Team strengths: “Hard Sept. 2 Arthur County work and some numbers,” Sept. 9 at Potter-Dix Jones said.

Sept. 16 Minatare Team goals: “To win Sept. 23 at Hay games and be competitive Springs and to improve week to Oct. 7 Hyannis week,” Jones said.

Oct. 13 at Sioux County Schedule Oct. 21 South Platte

CROSS COUNTRY GIRLS Nickname: Wildcats Class: D District: 6 Head coach: Kari Gifford (7th season) Returning state qualifiers: Courtney Knisley, jr.

Notes: Last season Knisley placed 15th at districts and 89th at state.

Season outlook: “Courtney and Josh will be the only two high school runners again this year,” Gifford said. “Self-discipline and willingness to work hard will be key to improving on their times from last year.

Schedule Sept. 2 Gering Invite Sept. 9 Kimball Invite Sept. 17 Alliance Invite

Sept. 20 Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 29 Bayard Invite Oct. 6 Sidney Invite Oct. 13 Districts Oct. 21 State at Kearney BOYS Nickname: Wildcats Class: D District: 6 Head coach: Kari Gifford (7th season) Returning letter winner: Josh Boston, sr.

Season outlook: “Courtney and Josh will be the only two high school runners again this year,” Gifford said. “Self-discipline and willingness to work hard will be key to improving on their times from last year.”

Volleyball

Sept. 1 ........Tri @ Minatare w/ Creek Valley Sept. 2..................................Arthur County Sept. 6...Tri w/Hay Springs & Hemingford Sept. 10 ............. Tri @ Bayard w/ Sioux Co. Sept. 15 ............. @ Guernsey Sunrise, WY Sept. 27.................................... Kimball JV Oct. 1 .......................Morrill Inv. Tournament Oct. 4 .............Tri @ Garden Co. w/Minatare

Photo courtesy of Banner County High School

Banner County’s cross country runners are Josh Boston (left) and Courtney Knisley.

Oct. 7 ............................................. H Hyannis i Oct. 13 ............................ @ Sioux County Oct. 115 .......MAC Tournament @ Bayard Oct. 18 .......... Tri w/Potter-Dix & Leyton Oct. 20 ............ Tri @ Hyannis w/Crawford Oct. 21 ................................ South Platte October 21.......... Leyton Inv. Tournament

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Football

Aug. 26 ............................................@ Cody Kilgore Sept. 2..............................................Arthur County Sept. 9 ..................................................@ Potter Dix Sept. 16..................................................... Minatare Sept. 23 ............................................. @Hay Springs Oct. 7 ......................................................... Hyannis Oct. 13 ............................................ @ Sioux County Oct. 21 ................................................ South Platte

Cross Country

Sept. 2 .............Gering @ Monument Shadows G.C. Sept. 9 .......................... Kimball @ Four Winds G.C. Sept. 17 ..............................Alliance@ Skyview G.C. Sept. 20 ................... Scottsbluff@ SB Country Club Sept. 29 ......................Bayard@Chimney Rock G.C. Oct. 6 .....................................Sidney@ Hillside G.C. Oct. 13 ..........................................................Districts

Fall Sports Preview Page 6

Thursday, August 25, 2016

VOLLEYBALL

Photo courtesy of Banner County High School

Here are members of Bayard’s volleyball team. Pictured are (back row, from left) Coach Cooper, Abigail Smith, Courtney Rundell, Rylie Mason, Jadyn Cross, Sierra Flores, Arielle Whelchel, Jessica Williams, Coach Harvie; (front row) Savannah Jordan, Bailee Underhill, MaKenna Dahlgrin, Emily Singleton, and Tiffany Murphy.

Nickname: Wildcats Class: D-2 Last year’s season record: 5-22 Last year’s conference record: 3-4 Last year’s district placing: Third Head coach: Bethany Cooper (2nd season) Assistant coach: Jessica Harvie Returning starters: MaKenna Dahlgrin, jr., 5-8, MH; Savannah Jordan, Sr., 5-5, S/RS; Emily Singleton, jr., 5-3, OH; Jadyn Cross, so., 5-6, MH Season outlook: “We ex-

B

pect to improve a lot this season, especially on individual skills, teamwork, and mental toughness,” Coach Cooper said. “We want to finish no lower than second in our district tournament and aim to do so through advancements in discipline, communication, and skill level.”

Team strengths: “Persistance and the strong desire to improve individually and as a team,” Cooper said.

Goals: “Improvement in mental toughness, confidence, and passing....dou-

ble the number of wins that we had last year at least,” Cooper said.

Last year’s highlights: “Made great emotional and mental growth as a team,” Cooper said.

Other: “Our program is rebuilding after the last few years,” Cooper said. “We have only a couple experienced individuals, so our team will depend heavily on individuals’ abilities to learn quickly and play aggressively. We have a hard-working senior setter combined with two aggres-

sive hitters, so we aim for as many connections there as possible. Serving will be an area in which we hope to obtain several points this season. We will also challenge the opposing team more at the net. MaKenna Dahlgrin will be a player to reckon with both defensively and offensively. ...

Improvement in our passing will also increase our competitive edge. ... We are greatly looking forward to this season, excited to build upon what we started last year. We will continue to

work hard physically and mentally, with emphasis on skills, communication, and mental toughness. ... This year’s group of girls likes to work hard and go all in. I am blessed by the chance to coach such a great crew.”

Notes: Last season Dahlgrin recorded 140 kills and 44 blocks; Jordan had 159 digs and 77 assists; Singleton registered 67 kills; and Cross had 30 kills and 35 digs.

Schedule Sept. 1 Minatare Triangular

Sept. 2 Arthur County Sept. 6 Banner County Triangular Sept. 10 Bayard Triangular Sept. 15 at Guernsey-Sunrise Oct. 1 Morrill Invite Oct. 4 Garden County Triangular Oct. 7 Hyannis Oct. 13 at Sioux County Oct. 15 MAC Tourney at Bayard Oct. 18 Banner County Triangular Oct. 20 Hyannis Triangular Oct. 21 South Platte Oct. 25 Leyton Invite

ayard Tigers

Nickname: Tigers Class: C-2 Last year’s season record: 2-7 Conference: Western Trails Last year’s conference record: 1-2 District: 8 Last year’s district record: 1-4 Head coach: Jacob Martin (1st season) Varsity assistant coaches: Randy McKibbin, Zach Nesbitt, Mike Simons, Brandon Stuart Returning offensive starters: 6 Returning defensive starters: 6 Returning starters: Joe Ferrero, sr., 5-9, 165, WR/ RB/SS; Haden Scherbarth, sr., 6-0, 235, OL/DL/LB; Mitch McKibbin, jr., 5-9, 145, QB/DB; Bryce Burry, jr., 5-9, 140, WR/DB; Dalton Harter, jr., 5-9, 140, RB/ LB; Payton Oliveiras, so., 6-3, 175, WR/LB Top newcomers/transfers: Tyler Baird, sr., 5-11, 200, OL/DL/LB Season outlook: “Bayard lost a lot of seniors from last year’s team, and younger athletes are going to see playing time on the field this upcoming season,” Coach Martin said.

Team strengths: “Our team strength would be our

FOOTBALL

STEPHANIE BARKER/Bayard High School

Here are members of Bayard’s football team. Pictured are (freshmen, back row, from left) Jaden Serda, Brandon Neiger, Traeton Talton, Gordon Acosta, Sheldon Gibbons-Gonzales, Gage Martin; (sophomores) Wyatt Fiscus, Lane Hargens, Jordon Mecklem, Payton Oliverius, Jake Dalbey, Dorry Cooper, Tanner Rafferty, Dawson Kriha; (juniors) student manager Kolton Kriha, Colin Hendrickson, Alex Nelson, Bryce Burry, Mitch McKibbin, Dalton Harter, student manager Ben Sauer; (seniors, front row) Caleb Skinner, Haden Scherbarth, Joe Ferrero, and Tyler Baird.

skill position players on defense and offense,” Martin said.

Notes: Last season Ferrero was named all-conference and all-district.

Martin said Ferrero is an “absolute workhorse who is willing to do anything

for the betterment of the team.” … Martin added about: Scherbarth: “Leader on our team for the offensive/ defensive lines.”

McKibbin: “A leader who has the ability to take over football games.”

Burry: “One of the team’s best all­-around skill players.”

Harter: “Great north/ south runner.”

Oliverius: “Great wide receiver with keen ball sense.”

Team goals: “To get bet-

ter every game and to not Sept. 9 at Centura give up when it gets tough,” Sept. 16 Southern Valley Martin said.

Sept. 23 at Bridgeport Former athletes competSept. 30 North Platte ing in college: Ethan MarkSP er, Doane College Oct. 7 Kimball Schedule Oct. 14 at Valentine Aug. 26 at Mitchell Oct. 21 Hershey Sept. 2 Southeast

Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

Page 7

GIRLS GOLF Nickname: Tigers Class: C-2 Conferences: MAC and WTC Last year’s conference placing: First Last year’s district placing: Sixth Head coach: Jim Roberts (26th season) Returning starters: Catherine Applegate, Sr.; Carissa Wolfe, jr.; Sam Trevino, jr.; Ryanne Blau, jr.

Season outlook: “Our team is composed of golfers with previous tournament experience,” Coach Roberts said. “They have been dedicated to practice and execution of skills that have dictated their success as a team so far. Our performance as a team last year was very good. With the same personnel this year we look to have much of the same success and improve on our district finish.

We will look to our senior Catherine Applegate for leadership and inspiration as we try to be our most competitive when districts is held.”

Team strengths: “Our team is fortunate to have a seasoned veteran in senior Catherine Applegate who we will look to, to share her

experience and expertise,” Roberts said. “We also have three juniors with good golf backgrounds that we will rely on for consistent team scores.”

Team goals: “Western Trails Conference repeat, potential state golf team qualifier,” Roberts said.

Notes: Last season Applegate earned all-conference honors and was a state qualifier. ... Wolfe, Trevino, and Blau were all named all-conference.

Last year’s highlights: Western Trails Conference champions; won four tournaments and placed second in two others; individual state qualifier who placed eighth at districts.

Schedule Aug. 25 Bayard Invite Aug. 30 Kimball Invite Sept. 1 Chappell Invite Sept. 6 Chadron Invite Sept. 8 Mitchell Invite Sept. 13 Gering Invite Sept. 17 Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 22 Bridgeport Invite Sept. 24 Alliance Invite Oct. 3 Ogallala Invite Oct. 4 Districts

STEPHANIE BARKER/ Bayard High School

Here are members of Bayard’s girls golf team.

Pictured are (back row, seniors) Catherine Applegate, Chelby Huck, Madi Schuller; (front row, juniors) Carrissa Wolfe and RyAnne Blau.

CROSS COUNTRY

STEPHANIE BARKER/Bayard High School

Here are members of Bayard’s cross country teams.

Pictured are (back row) Daeton Blanco, Justin Whitebear, Garrett Doremus, Alex Araujo; (front row) Taylor Gier, Christina Mascher, Nicole Barker, Jessica Whitebear, and Leah Albro.

GIRLS Nickname: Tigers Class: D Conferences: WTC and MAC District: 6 Head coach: Candace Smith (3rd season) Varsity assistant coach: Nick Kizzire Returning state qualifiers: Nicole Barker, jr.

Other returning letter winners: Christina Mascher, so.

Top newcomers/transfers: Leah Albro, fr.; Jessica Whitebear, fr.; Taylor Gier, so.

Season outlook: “This team is full of personality and a winning attitude,” coach Smith said. “They challenge each other every day and push each other toward success.”

Team strengths: “Hard

work and determination is sure to lead this team to team success as well as personal ones,” Smith said.

Team goals: “The team would like to qualify for state and run some PRs this year,” Smith said.

Notes: Last season Barker placed fifth in the conference meet, ninth at districts, and 48th at state. “Nicole had an excellent season last year, and we look forward to seeing what she can do this year,” Smith said.

Last year’s highlights: “Having two state qualifiers was exciting, and having the team be so supportive of each other made for an excellent season,” Smith said.

Former athletes competing in college: Jessi Smith, UNL track Schedule Sept. 2 Gering Invite

Sept. 9 Kimball Invite Sept. 17 Alliance Invite Sept. 20 Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 26 UNK Invite Sept. 29 Bayard Invite Oct. 7 WTC Invite Oct. 13 Districts Oct. 21 State BOYS Nickname: Tigers Class: D Conferences: WTC and MAC District: 6 Head coach: Candace Smith (3rd season) Varsity assistant coach: Nick Kizzire Returning state qualifiers: Alex Araujo, jr.

Other returning letter winners: Garrett Dorms, so.

Top newcomers/transfers: Justin Whitener, so.;

Daeton Blanco, fr.; Jose Aguilar, fr.

Season outlook: “We’ve got an excellent combination of runners this year,” Smith said. “They all have great attitudes and heart.

That combination should make for an exciting and successful season.”

Team strengths: “We have excellent leadership and a willingness to work hard,” Smith said.

Team goals: “The team would love to qualify for state,” Smith said.

Notes: Last season Araujo earned top-three placings at both the conference and district meets.

Last year’s highlights: “Seeing personal growth all throughout the season was wonderful and watching the team grow together and encourage each other made it fun,” Smith said.

VOLLEYBALL

9/1 .................................................................... Morrill 9/8 ...............................................@ Gordon-Rushville 9/10 ............... Triangular w/Banner Co & Sioux Co 9/13 ................................................................ Mitchell 9/17 ................................................. Bridgeport Tourn.

9/20 ....................Triangular w/Leyton & Garden Co 9/24 ...............................................Mitchell Invitational 9/26 ........... Triangular w/Bridgeport & Hemingford 9/27 ...............Triangular w/South Platte @ Potter-Dix 10/4 .......................Triangular w/Potter-Dix @ Kimball 10/6 ........................................................Creek Valley 10/13 ....................................................... Hemingford 10/15 ............................ MAC Conference @ Bayard 10/18 ................Triangular w/Mitchell @ Creek Valley 10/20 ..........................................................@Minatare 10/22 ............Western Trails Conference @ Bayard

GIRLS’ GOLF

8/25........ Bayard Inv @ Chimney Rock Golf Course 8/30.................Kimball Inv @ Four Winds Golf Course 9/1.............. Creek Valley Inv @ Chappell Golf Course 9/6 ...............Chadron Inv @ Ridgeview Country Club 9/8............... Mitchell Inv @ Scenic Knolls Golf Course 9/13... Gering Inv @ Monument Shadows Golf Course 9/17 ........ Scottsbluff Inv @ Scotts Bluff Country Club 9/22 .Bridgeport Inv@ Courthouse & Jail Rock Golf Course 9/24............Alliance Inv @ Sky View Golf Course 10/3-4Dist.@ West Winds Golf Course in Ogallala

CROSS COUNTRY

9/2..... Gering Inv@ Monument Shadows Golf Course 9/9................................................................Kimball @ 9/17.......................... Alliance @ Alliance High School 9/20.........Scottsbluff Inv @ Scotts Bluff Country Club 9/22.......... Gordon-Rushville @ Gordon Country Club 9/26....................... Kearney @ Kearney Country Club 9/29.......Bayard Inv @ Chimney Rock Golf Course 10/7................................... Western Trails Conference @ Kimball Four Winds Golf Course 10/13 ................................................. Districts @ TBD

FOOTBALL

8/26.............................................................. @ Mitchell 9/2..........................................Southeast Goshen, WY 9/9................................................................@ Centura 9/16.................................................... Southern Valley 9/23.......................................................... @ Bridgeport 9/30..................................... North Platte St. Patrick’s 10/7.................................................................. Kimball 10/14 .........................................................@ Valentine 10/21 .............................................................. Hershey

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Fall Sports Preview Page 8

Thursday, August 25, 2016

VOLLEYBALL

STEPHANIE BARKER/Bayard High School

Here are members of Bayard’s volleyball team. Pictured are (back row) Coach Nolte, Coach Coolidge, freshmen Adrianna Salazar, Kassi Garza, Ale Garza, Lorren Henkel, Katie Colson, Head Coach Karen Petersen; (second to back) Carli Verbeck, Kaleigh Nelson, Sierra Sauer, Teagan Cottrell, Liz Marker, Bailey Lake, Kylie Stuart; (third from back) Avery Kildow, Sarah Reish, Jaicee White, Shaley Petersen; (front) Emily Doremus, Lauren Petersen, and Cassidee White.

Nickname: Tigers Class: C-2 Last year’s season record: 9-21 Conference: WTC and MAC Last year’s conference placing: 3rd in MAC Head coach: Karen Petersen (1st season)

B

Varsity assistant coache: Holly Nolte Team volunteer: Michael Coolidge Returning starters (4): Emily Doremus, Sr., 5-6, L; Lauren Petersen, Sr., 5-9, OH/MH; Kylie Stuart, so., 5-8, OH/MH; Avery Kildow, jr., 5-5, S

Other returning letter winners: Liz Marker, so., 5-8, RS; Jaicee White, jr., 5-8, MH/RS; Shaley Petersen, jr., 5-9, OH/MH Season outlook: “We are excited to see how this season folds out,” Coach Petersen said. “These girls are looking for a positive

change and have worked their tails off.”

Team strengths: “We are tough and have grit,” Petersen said.

Schedule Sept. 1 Morrill Sept. 8 at Gordon-Rushville Sept. 10 Bayard Tri-

angular Sept. 13 Sept. 17 Tourney Sept. 20 angular Sept. 24 Tourney Sept. 26 angular

Mitchell Bridgeport Bayard TriMitchell Bayard Tri-

Sept. 27 Potter-Dix Triangular Oct. 4 Kimball Tourney Oct. 6 Creek Valley Oct. 13 Hemingford Oct. 15 MAC Tourney at Bayard Oct. 18 Creek Valley Triangular Oct. 20 at Minatare

ridgeport Bulldogs FOOTBALL

KEVIN MYERS/Bridgeport Newsblade

Here are the members of this year’s Bridgeport High School football team.

Nickname: Bulldogs Class: C-2 Conference: Western Trails District: C2-8 Last year’s record: 6-4, qualified for state playoffs Head coach: Jerod Dean (6th year) Returning starters: (7) Austin Hartman, 6-2, 160, senior, QB; Jerrod Fedorchik, 6-1, 195, senior, FB/LB; Connor Wiggins, 6-2, 210, senior, OL/DL; Curtis Freeze, 6-2, 250, junior, OL/DL; Joseph Weibert, 5-8, 164, senior, OL/ DL; Marce Vasquez, 5-11, 205, junior, OL/DL; Trey Janicek, 5-9, 155, senior, WR/DB Other returning letter winners: Kyle Kildow, 5-8, 150, junior, RB/LB; Logan Nichols, 6-0, 158, sophomore, WR/LB; Abraham Ramos, 5-7, 176, sophomore, OL/DL; Logan Coalson, 5-10, 170, junior, OL/DL; Nate Schmunk, 6-0, 185, junior, TE/DE

Season outlook: “With a returning quarterback, a 1,000-yard rushing fullback and three offensive linemen, it’s no secret that our strength will be in the run game. If we can find a tailback to replace four-year starter Wyatt Pankowski, we will see success running our option game again this year,” Coach Dean said. “We will not have much depth, so we will have to stay healthy. Our young kids will have to be prepared to step up and be playmakers in special situations.”

Schedule Aug. 26 at Southern Valley Sept. 2 HOLYOKE, COLO. Sept. 9 at Gordon-Rushville Sept. 16 at Mitchell Sept. 23 BAYARD Sept. 30 at Kimball KEVIN MYERS/Bridgeport Newsblade Oct. 7 VALENTINE The Bridgeport football team runs a drill during its midnight practice early this month.

Oct. 14 at Hershey The Bulldogs will open their season on Friday at Southern Valley.

Oct. 21 NORTH PLATTE ST. PAT’S

Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

Page 9

GIRLS GOLF Nickname: Bulldogs Class: C Conference: Western Trails District: C-5 Last year’s conference finish: Second Last year’s district finish: Seventh Head coach: Todd Janicek (15th year) Returning varsity golfers: Kaeli McVicker, sophomore, WTC all-conference; Molly Lambert, sophomore, WTC all-conference; Karissa Benavides, sophomore; Awni McGrath, sophomore; Rayleigh Farrenkopf, junior; Toni Mitchell, sophomore, WTC all-conference Returning non-letter winners: Tiana Rice, sophomore Top newcomers: Cassidy Coalson, sophomore; Olivia Freeze, freshman; Diane Sandeval, freshman; Cobi Klignsporn, sophomore Season outlook: “I have a pos-

Team goals: “Improve every week,” Janicek said. “Work on our consistency and short game. First or second at WTC, and qualify for the state tournament.”

Last year’s highlights: “Second place WTC,” Janicek said. “Individual and team score improvement. The team has qualified for the state tournament 11 out of 14 years.”

Schedule Aug. 23 Sidney Invite Aug. 25 Bayard Invite Aug. 30 Kimball Invite/WTC Aug. 31 Scottsbluff Quad at Riverview Sept. 1 Creek Valley Invite Sept. 6 Chadron Invite Sept. 8 Mitchell Invite Sept. 13 Gering Invite KEVIN MYERS/Bridgeport Newsblade Sept. 22 BRIDGEPORT INVITE Pictured are the members of this year’s Bridgeport High School girls golf teams.

Sept. 24 Alliance Invite itive outlook on this season,” the game of golf, and we showed our whole varsity team plus four Oct. 3 C-5 District at Ogallala Coach Janicek said. “Last season a lot of improvement (100 shots golfers who are eager and ready Oct. 10-11 State at North all the girls were brand new to in our team score). We return to learn the game of golf.”

Platte

CROSS COUNTRY Boys Nickname: Bulldogs Class: D Conference: Western Trails, SPVA District: D-6 Last year’s finish: District champion, SPVA champion, WTC runner-up, third at state Head coach: Craig Johnson Returning varsity runners: Jack Linders, junior; Ryan Gomez, senior; Adam Bustinza, sophomore Returning runners: Seth Loomis-Goltl, Tyler Franklin, Declan Jeffries Girls Nickname: Bulldogs Class: D Conference: Western Trails, SPVA District: D-6 Last year’s finish: District champion, WTC champion, SPVA champion Head coach: Craig Johnson KEVIN MYERS/Bridgeport Newsblade Returning varsity runners: Erika Swires, senior; Karsen Stull, senior; Dori Schneider, junior; Grace Dobrinski, sophomore Pictured are the members of this year’s Bridgeport High School girls and boys cross country teams.

Top newcomers: Kenna Asche, Jayden Kelly, Kaylee Johnson

FOOTBALL August 26 .........................@ Southern Valley September 4 ...................... Holyoke, CO September 9 .................. @ Gordon-Rushville September 16 ............................... @ Mitchell September 23 ........................... Bayard September 30 ................................ @ Kimball October 7 ..............................Valentine October 14 ....................................@ Hershey October 21 .........North Platte St. Patrick’s

VOLLEYBALL

GIRLS GOLF

August 25 ................................. Bayard Invite August 29 ........................... Scottsbluff Invite August 30 ......Western Trails Conf @ Kimball September 1 ..................... Creek Valley Invite September 9 ........................... Chadron Invite September 8 ............................Mitchell Invite September 13 ............................Gering Invite September 22 ............... Bridgeport Invite September 24 ......................@ Alliance Invite October 3 .................................... District Golf October 10 ......................................State Golf

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CROSS COUNTRY September 2 ..........................@ Gering Invite September 9 ........................ @ Kimball Invite September 17 ......................@ Alliance Invite September 20 ........ @ Scottsbluff Invitational September 26 ..................... @ Kearney Invite Spetember 29 ....................... @ Bayard Invite October 6 ............. SPVA Meet @ Grant Invite October 7 .......Western Trails Conf @ Kimball October 21 ... State Cross Country @ Kearney

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September 1 .......................... Kimball September 6 ...Tri w/Kimball & Garden Co September 10 .............. @ Gordon/Rushville September 13 ....... Tri w/Sidney @ Chadron September 17 .....@ Bridgeport Tournament September 20 .......................... Tri w/Morrill @ Hemingford September 24 ...................@ Hershey Invite September 26 ..Tri w/Hemingford @ Bayard September 29 ......................... Leyton October 6 ............................... @ Sutherland October 13 ............................Mitchell October 15 ................SPVA Conf @ Ogallala October 20 .................................... @ Gering October 22 ............. Western Trails Conf @ Bayard October 25 .............. Tri w/Gordon-Rushville @ Mitchell

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Fall Sports Preview Page 10

Thursday, August 25, 2016

VOLLEYBALL

KEVIN MYERS/Bridgeport Newsblade

Pictured are the members of this year’s Bridgeport High School volleyball team.

Nickname: Bulldogs Class: C-1 Conference: Western Trails, SPVA Sub-district: C1-12 Last year’s record: 23-9, Western Trails Conference Tournament champion, sub-district runner-up Head coach: Jackie Rahmig (11th year) Returning starters: (4)

C

Ashley Weborg, 5-8, senior, middle hitter; Alexis Corman, 5-8, senior, middle hitter; Emily Baxter, 5-8, junior, outside hitter; Brittney Newkirk, 5-5, junior, outside hitter Returning letter winners: Riley Hall, 5-7, senior, setter; Drew Shaffer, 5-8, senior, right side; Gabby Argamosa, 5-3, senior, de-

fensive specialist; Brittany Nelson, 5-6, sophomore, outside hitter; Kaitlyn Nein, 5-6, junior, outside hitter; Kyler Watts, 5-4, sophomore, outside hitter/ right side Season outlook: “I really look for us to continue to be competitive this season,” Coach Rahmig said. “Several players may not have

started for me last year, but they were on varsity pushing for those spots daily.

I am excited about that competitive group to continue where we left off last season. We don’t have great height, so we will have to be smart on offense and very aggressive on our defense.”

Schedule

Sept. 1 KIMBALL Sept. 6 B R I D G E P O R T TRIANGULAR Sept. 10 at Gordon-Rushville Invite Sept. 13 at Chadron Triangular Sept. 17 B R I D G E P O R T INVITE Sept. 20 at Hemingford Triangular Sept. 24 at Hershey Invite

Sept. 26 at Bayard Triangular Sept. 29 LEYTON Oct. 6 at Sutherland Oct. 13 MITCHELL Oct. 15 SPVA Tournament at Ogallala Oct. 20 at Gering Oct. 22 Western Trails Tournament at Bayard Oct. 25 B R I D G E P O R T TRIANGULAR

hadron Cardinals FOOTBALL

Photo courtesy of Chadron High School

Here are members of the Chadron football team.

Nickname: Cardinals Class: C-1 Last year’s season record: 3-5 Conference: Western District: 8 Last year’s district record/placing: 2-2/Third Head coach: Mike Lecher (11th season) Varsity assistant coaches: CJ Bach, Jaime Slingsby, Clint Fernandez, Jonn McLain, Mike Sandstrom, Josh Redden, Danny

O’Boyle Offensive starters returning: 5 Defensive starters returning: 6 Returning starters: Marc Fernandez, sr., 6-4, 185, WR/S; Logan Tiensvold, jr., 5-11, 190, LB; Sam Rischling, jr., 6-2, 185, WR; Brendan Sayaloune, sr., 5-9, 160, RB/DB; Jeff Cerny, jr., 6-1, 180, LB; Marquis Burwell, sr., 5-10, 210, OL/DL; Joe Matt, jr.,

6-5, 195, OL/DL Other returning letter winners: Coy Bila, jr., 6-2, QB; Brayden Richardson, jr., 5-8, 150, WR/DB; Zach Carraltini, jr., 5-10, 165, OL/DL; Zane Jones, jr., 5-10, 185, OL/DL; Nick Wordekemper, jr., 6-3, 185, OL/DL; Drew Jersild, jr., 5-9, 160, WR/DB Season outlook: “We hope to improve on last year’s record,” Coach Lecher said. “We played many

underclassmen last year and hope their experience helps this year. We should be competitive with the teams on our schedule. We need to play like Chadron High is expected to.”

Team strengths: “We should have a strong defense this year,” Lecher said. “Quite a few players saw playing time on that side of the ball. We also hope to have a stronger running game this year as

a capable line will be in front of three good running backs.”

Team goals: “Finish well within our district and qualify for the state playoffs,” Lecher said.

Last year’s highlights: “Winning two games in overtime [Chase County and Gordon-Rushville],” Lecher said.

Former athletes competing in college: TD Stein, Jackson Dickerson,

Keenan Johnson, and Lane Jersild, all at CSC; Tyson Budler, Carroll College Schedule Aug. 26 Alliance Sept. 2 at Cozad Sept. 9 Broken Bow Sept. 16 Gering Sept. 23 at Gothenburg Sept. 30 at Ogallala Oct. 7 Gordon-Rushville Oct. 14 at Mitchell Oct. 21 Chase County

Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

Page 11

VOLLEYBALL

Courtesy photo

Here are members of Chadron’s volleyball team.

Nickname: Cardinals Class: C-1 Last year’s season record: 34-5 Conference: Western Last year’s conference tourney placing: First Sub district: 12 Last year’s district placing: First Last year’s state tournament: Chadron placed third.

Head coach: Don Matt (11th season)

Varsity assistant coach: Blakeley Hoffman Returning starters (5): Myia Hamaker, Sr., 5-10, OP; Jadyn McCartney, Sr., 6-0, OH; Alexandria Nobiling, Sr., 5-9, OH; Teagan Westemeier, Sr., 5-9, MB; Talyah Huss, jr., 5-6, S Other returning letter winners: Emily Blaylock, Sr., 5-8; Kaci Waugh, Sr., 5-4; Carstyn Hageman, so., 5-7 Season outlook: “If the

girls continue to work hard and improve they should be competitive with all the teams on our schedule,” Coach Matt said.

Team strengths: “Team concept, work ethic,” Matt said.

Team goals: “To be competitive in every match,” Matt said.

Notes: Last season Hamaker collected 88 kills and 21 ace blocks; McCartney had 514 kills and 349

digs; Nobiling had 201 kills and 415 digs; Westemeier had 163 kills and 54 ace blocks; and Huss had 380 assists.

Last year’s highlights: “With the athletes we had last year the whole season was a highlight capped off with the state tournament placing,” Matt said.

Former athletes competing in college: Chandler Hageman, Black Hills State; Alia Brennan and Maaryn

Davis, both at CSC; Ashlyn Eitemiller, Colorado School Of Mines; Maggie Earney, Iowa Wesleyan Schedule Sept. 1 Gordon-Rushville Sept. 6 Alliance Sept. 8 at Gering Sept. 13 Chadron Triangular Sept. 16-17 Har vest Festival Invite at Gothenburg Sept. 22 Scottsbluff

Sept. 29 Douglas, S.D. Sept. 30-Oct. 1 Twin Cities Invite Oct. 4 Hot Springs Oct. 6 at Scottsbluff Oct. 8 Western Conference Tourney at Scottsbluff Oct. 10 at St. Thomas More Oct. 11 Sidney Oct. 15 Valentine Tourney Oct. 22 Alliance Dig Pink Invite Oct. 25 at Alliance

SOFTBALL

Courtesy photo

Here are members of Chadron’s softball team.

Nickname: Cardinals Class: C Head coach: Jodi Hendrickson (5th season) Assistant coach: Katelyn Kruger Last year’s season record: 12-14 Last year’s district placing: Third Returning starters: Kaitlyn Haug, sr., LF; Kylee Garrett, jr., C; Dana Dunbar, jr., SS/P; Kyler Behrends, jr., 2B; Hanna Kennell, jr., 3B; Mia Brodrick, jr., RF; Peyton Underwood, so., 1B Other returning letter winners and newcomers: Destiny Rhoden, sr.; Aries Otteson, sr.; Hannah Otteson, jr.; Shelby Blunder, so.; Trysha Brierly, so.; Dawn Dunbar, fr.; Bristyn Cummings, fr.; Kaitlyn Jensen, fr.; Maddi Hamar, fr.; Mikayla Wild, fr.; Malia Burwell, fr.; Alyeea Lopez, fr.; Naleya Goings, fr.; Taylor Jackson, fr.

Toughest competition: “Our toughest competition at districts will be Cozad,”

Coach Hendrickson said.

“Scottsbluff, Gering, and Gothenburg (Class B teams) are also strong competitors in our conference.

We have gone back and forth with these teams for the past two years.”

Season outlook: “Chadron’s goal is to win Class C6 Districts and make it to state,” Hendrickson said.

“With the talent and heart that I see on the field, this goal is within our reach.

The girls have been playing all summer and confidence is high. We have seven returning starters who have played together from the time they were young.

Three starters are All-Class C Honorable Mention and All-Conference Team winners. With the addition of returning letter winners and newcomers, our team is looking promising. Our team ended the 2015 season with 12 home-runs and two significant wins. Can’t wait to see what this season holds for these wonderful ladies.”

Here are Hendrickson’s comments about some of her players: “Dana Dunbar, an incoming junior at Chadron, has been playing softball from the time she was a little girl. Softball runs in her family. Her mother, Shelly Dunbar, is in the Iowa Hall of Fame for winning over 100 high school games as a pitcher. After high school she went on to play college ball at Northwest Missouri State. Dana’s stats for her first two years have been outstanding. As a freshman, her batting average was .449 with 31 RBIs, 32 runs scored and two home runs. As a sophmore, her batting average was .394 with 36 runs scored and 6 home runs. Keep your eye on her! This determined young lady is going somewhere.”

“Kylee Garrett, an incoming junior at Chadron, has also been playing softball from the time she was little. Kylee is our catcher and leads the team. Her

softball knowledge and Aug. 25 at Alliance work ethic is demonstrated Aug. 30 at Scottsbluff on and off the field. Kylee’s Sept. 3 McCook Invite stats for her first two years Sept. 6 at Gering are amazing. As a freshSept. 9-10 Scottsbluff man, her batting average Invite was .486, with 27 RBIs, 26 Sept. 13 Alliance runs scored, and 4 home Sept. 16 at Chase runs. As a sophomore, her County batting average soared to .524 with 32 RBIs, 22 runs scored, and 3 home runs.

Kylee is determined and one of the most coachable young ladies I have worked with. Watch out for Kylee this year!”

“Kaitlyn Haug, a senior, is one to watch. Her speed and agility in the outfield along with her diversity at bat makes her a lethal weapon. As a freshman, Kaitlyn’s batting average was .412 and soared to .588 her sophmore year and ended last year with a .341 average. This young lady is determined and when the ball goes to the outfield the other team lowers their heads as we yell “no doubt.”

Schedule Aug. 20 Lexington Invite

Sept. 17 North Platte Classic Sept. 20 Gering Sept. 22 vs. Gothenburg and Chase County at Ogallala Sept. 27 Scottsbluff Oct. 1 Chadron Triangular

Fall Sports Preview Page 12

Thursday, August 25, 2016

CROSS COUNTRY GIRLS Nickname: Cardinals Class: C District: 4 Head coach: Willie Uhing (2nd season) Varsity assistant coach: Gatlin Mack Returning state qualifiers: none Returning letter winners: Julianne Dickerson, sr.; Alison Gardner, sr.; Anabel Gardner, so.; Kyla Parish, sr.; Greta Welch, sr.; Mande Wollesen, so.

Top newcomers/transfers: Grace Sorensen, fr.; Colette Mahr, sr.

Season outlook: “This year’s seniors have run together since seventh grade and run through nearly every high and every low,” Coach Uhing said. “I have no idea what to expect this season in the way of performance, but I can guarantee each day will be adventurous and exciting.”

Team strengths: “These ladies start slow but generally rise to the challenge. They also keep practice light and fun, which can be difficult during the grind of mid season,” Uhing said.

Team goals: “Improve individual times each

Courtesy photo

Here are members of Chadron’s cross country teams.

week to better the team as a whole. Be competitive at districts and as always enjoy each day together,” Uhing said.

Here’s Uhing’s comments about some of his runners: Dickerson: “Strong sea-

son finisher.”

Alison Gardner: “Had a great summer of running.”

Parish: “Wonderful/ positive team member.”

Welch: “Extraordinary worker in practice.”

Wollesen: “Excited to

see growth her sophomore season.”

Sorensen: “May take her a bit to acclimate to high school distance and speed, but she is willing to log the miles.”

Mahr: “A great team member and hard worker.”

Last year’s highlights: “Many injuries (minor and major) but the girls found unity through each setback. Whoever dropped the flag, the next in line picked it up and kept running,” Uhing said.

Former athletes competing in college: Kiya Passero, Chadron State Schedule Sept. 2 Gering Invite Sept. 10 Chadron Invite Sept. 17 Alliance Invite Sept. 20 Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 22 Gordon Invite Sept. 26 UNK Invite Oct. 1 Conference meet at Chadron Oct. 6 Sidney Invite Oct. 13 Districts Oct. 21 State at Kearney

BOYS Nickname: Cardinals Class: C District: 4 Head coach: Willie Uhing (2nd season) Varsity assistant coach: Gatlin Mack Returning state qualifiers: none Returning letter winners: JashwaAlan Cummings, jr.; Jared Fernau, jr.; Caleb Hill, sr.; Top newcomers/transfers: Brooks Roberts, sr.; Langdon Webster, fr.

Season outlook: “Many new faces will grace the gentleman’s squad this season,” Coach Uhing said. “They are an athletic bunch of young men, but can they become competitive runners? Guess we will see, but I have a hunch they will find success.”

Team strengths: “Tough and sturdy group without attitude and fear of failure. Very coachable!”

Uhing said.

Team goals: “Improve on individual times and put together a salty team score. Be competitive at districts,” Uhing said.

Here’s Uhing’s comments about some of his runners:

Cummings: “Huge potential this season.”

Fernau: “Much talent we are working to hone.”

Hill: “Tough young man and very strong runner.”

Roberts: “Extraordinary strength and athleticism. Excited to see what he will do as a new runner.”

Webster: “An avid runner with tremendous potential.”

Last year’s highlights: “Best district times in school history. Seek to improve this season,” Uhing said.

Former athletes competing in college: Phil Duncan, Chadron State Schedule Sept. 2 Gering Invite Sept. 10 Chadron Invite Sept. 17 Alliance Invite Sept. 20 Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 22 Gordon Invite Sept. 26 UNK Invite Oct. 1 Conference meet at Chadron Oct. 6 Sidney Invite Oct. 13 Districts Oct. 21 State at Kearney

GIRLS GOLF Nickname: Cardinals Class: C-1 Conference: Western District: 5 Last year’s district placing: First Head coach: Loni Watson (3rd season) Returning starters: Alpine Hickstein, jr.; Ahlaura Pourier, sr.; Alyssa Noble, sr.; Taurie Pourier, so.

Other returning letter winners: Kat Dodd, jr.; Aubree Noble, jr.

Top newcomers/transfers: Danielle Johnson, sr.

Season outlook: “With eight returning golfers and five new golfers we have a unique mix of experience,” Watson said.

“We will be looking to build on our district championship last year and find more consistency in our team and

VOLLEYBALL

individual scoring. With three seniors this should be our strongest team in the last three years.”

Team strength: Experience, Watson said.

Team goals: Consistency, Watson said.

Here’s what Watson had to say about some of her golfers: Hickstein, who placed second at state last year: “Should be able to compete with the top golfers in the state.”

Ahlaura Pourier: “Has grown an incredible amount of consistency in recent years.”

Alyssa Noble: “Great team leader.

Great chance at placing in Courtesy photo many meets this year.”

Here are members of Chadron’s girls golf team.

Taurie Pourier: “Growing consistency, has tons Dodd: “Will compete ble rate.” tion; has improved at an Winning the C5 district of talent, looking forAubree Noble: “Will incredible rate.” championship, Watson ward to seeing how she for varsity position; has progresses.” improved at an incredi- compete for varsity posiLast year’s highlight: said.

9/1 ........... Gordon-Rushville 9/6 ............................Alliance 9/8 .......................... @ Gering 9/13 Tri w/Sidney & Bridgeport 9/16-17 ...... @ Gothenburg Inv 9/22 .................. @ Scottsbluff 9/29 ......... Tri w/ Douglas, SD @ Belle Fourche, SD 9/30-10/1 ......... Twin Cities Inv @ Scottsbluff 10/4 ............ Hot Springs, SD 10/6.................... @ Scottsbluff 10/8 ...... Western Conference @ Scottsbluff 10/10.@ St. Thomas Moore, SD 10/11 ..........................Sidney 10/15 ............ @ Valentine Inv 10/22 .................... @ Alliance Dig Pink Tourney 10/25 .................... @ Alliance

GIRLS GOLF

8/23 .................... @ Sidney Inv 8/25.......................@Bayard Inv 8/29................. @Scottsbluff Inv 9/2.............................. @ Gering 9/6 ...................... Chadron Inv 9/10 ...................@ Mitchell Inv 9/13 .................... @ Gering Inv 9/19 ..................@ Ogallala Inv 9/22 .............. @ Bridgeport Inc 9/24 ........................ @ Alliance 9/26 ......... @ Gordon-Rushville 10/3 .............................Districts 10/10-11 ........................... State

FOOTBALL

8/26 ............................Alliance 9/2 ............................ @ Cozad 9/9 ...................... Broken Bow 9/16 .............................. Gering 9/23....................@ Gothenburg 9/30 ........................@ Ogallala 10/7............. Gordon-Rushville 10/14 .......................@ Mitchell 10/21 ............... Chase County

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CROSS COUNTRY

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Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

G

Page 13

ering Bulldogs FOOTBALL

MARK REIN/Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Gering High School football team. Pictured in the front row (from left to right) are Dalton Scott, Austin Abbott, Chris Palomo, Quinten Janacek, Garrett Conn, Dan Marshall, Tyler Pszanka, Julian Corona, Ricky Sawnz, Dan Merritt, and Syklar Meuller. Pictured in the second row are Jacob Rocheleau, Riley Grote, Cody Ybarra, Brenden Williams, Logan Murdock, Dylan Radzymski, Wade Blue, Trent Rehmig, Brandyn Larsen, Justin Scott, and Johnny Castrejon-Lope. Pictured in the third row are Jacob Schmidt, Brandon Jurado, Logan Buhr, Tim Bernhardt, Kenny Witcofski, Quinten Onstott, Nick Watkins, Austin Duncan, Zach Marsh, Seth DeBoer, Max Clossen, Jeremiah Contreras, and Tommy Ganos. Pictured in the fourth row are Kolton Ebbers, Anthony Walker, Riley Schanaman, Hunter Walker, Riley Hoke, Eric Blue, Kyle Marsh, Adrick Conn, Garrett Conn, Quinten Cabral, Tyler Coleman, and Junior Aguilar. Not pictured is Jose Valencia.

Nickname: Bulldogs Class: B Conference: Western District: B-8 Last year’s record: 0-9 Head coach: Todd Ekart (Second year) Returning starters: Wade Blue, 6-5, 230, junior, OL/ DL; Skylar Mueller, 5-10, 190, senior, RB/OL/LB;

Dylan Radzymski, 5-11, 170, senior, RB/LB; Cody Ybarra, 5-10, 175, junior, LB; Tim Bernhardt, 5-10, 225, sophomore, DL; Carmelo Ozuna, 5-6, 170, junior, DL; Zach Marsh, 6-0, 265, senior, OL; Seth DeBoer, 6-2, 250, senior, OL/ DL; Nic Watkins, 5-11, 180, junior, OL; Dalton Scott,

5-11, 150, senior, WR; Tyler Pszanka, 6-5, 185, junior, QB; Riley Grote, 5-10, 165, senior, RB; Jacob Rocheleau, 5-10, 170, junior, RB Season outlook: “We will be much improved from last year. We have a talented group of linemen and the skill positions have

more depth,” Coach Ekart said. “We finished last season well and the players really did a good job in the offseason improving their strength. The kids we have this year are committed to doing their absolute best.”

Team goals: “We want to be competitive in every game,” Ekart said. “I believe

six of our nine opponents made it to the playoffs last year, so if we can hang with those teams we have a chance to be successful. Every Friday you get to judge where your team is at. We want to see an improvement every Friday night during the season.”

Schedule

Aug. 26 at Northwest Sept. 2 MCCOOK Sept. 9 at Hastings Sept. 16 at Chadron Sept. 23 AURORA Sept. 30 at Lexington Oct. 7 at Scottsbluff Oct. 14 ALLIANCE Oct. 21 at Sidney

Nickname: Bulldogs Class: B Conference: Western District: B-4 Head coach: Jessica Boswell Returning varsity golfers: Jaylen Beam, senior; Baily Kreider, senior; Afton Mitchell, senior Season outlook: “This year’s team brings lots of experience to the golf course,” Coach Boswell said. “We have six returners who have played in golf tournaments before and

then we have three freshmen who all have previous golf experience.”

Team goals: “One goal is to shoot a team score in the 370s and for our team to place in the top three at districts and qualify for the state tournament,” Boswell said.

Schedule Aug. 29 Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 6 Chadron Invite Sept. 13 GERING INVITE Sept. 20 Ogallala Invite Sept. 24 Alliance Invite Oct. 3 Districts at Sidney Oct. 10-11 State

GIRLS GOLF

JEFF FIELDER/Star-Herald

Gering’s Baily Kreider watches her tee shot during Tuesday’s Sidney Invite.

We support our area athletes!

MARK REIN/Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Gering High School girls golf team. Pictured in the front row (from left to right) are Baily Kreider, Ali Boswell, Kelsee Walter, and Maddi Parks. Pictured in the middle row are Jaylen Beam, Megan Maser, Avery Mitchell, Jayda Ahrens, Ashley Maschmeier, and Kelsey Le. Pictured in the back row are Afton Mitchell, Coach Jessica Boswell, and Ashley Mitchell.

GERING

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Fall Sports Preview Page 14

Thursday, August 25, 2016

SOFTBALL

MARK REIN/Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Gering High School softball team. Pictured in the front row (from left to right) are Becca Svoboda, Jacey Marietta, Annessa Escamilla, Kaylee Bohnsack, and Amanda Horrocks. Pictured in the middle row are Paige Peterson, Tori Hoagland, Kaetlyn Todd, Delaney Dean, Kenzie Schlaepfer, Karina Clark, Marley Garcia, Messina Maley, and Jessica Svoboda. Pictured in the third row are Josie Brown, Bobbie Claflin, Kaylee Gannon, Sam Stamper, Alyssa Urwin, Destinee Harden, Calista Muhr, Alannah Ventura, and Bailie Staab. Pictured in the back row are Kelly Snelling, Kelsey Bohnsack, Kiana Island, Ashland Todd, Hannah Splattstoesser, Bianka Morales, and Victoria Brady.

Nickname: Bulldogs Class: B Conference: Western District: B-6 Last year’s record: 20-12 Last year’s conference finish: First Last year’s district finish: Third Head coach: Tim Gonzales (Third year)

Returning starters: (8) Annessa Escamilla, senior; Becca Svoboda, senior; Jacey Marietta, senior; Kaylee Bohnsack, senior; Delaney Dean, junior; Kaetlyn Todd, junior; Paige Peterson, junior; Tori Hoagland, sophomore Season outlook: “We have very high expecta-

tions this year. We’re always pushing to have the best season possible,” Coach Gonzales said. “I think the jelling of our team and the community of our team is at a high point where the girls have played with each other for quite some time.”

Team strengths: “I personally believe we’re going

to be a super quick team.

We’ve got a lot of speed on this team,” Gonzales said.

“With the combination of Kaylee Bohnsack, Kaetlyn Todd, Delaney Dean, Annessa Escamilla, and Becca Svoboda, we’ve also got a lot of stored up power there. We have a ton of freshmen that have come

out for softball and there’s three or four of them who have a lot of power, too.

We’re definitely blessed with youth and numbers, so we’re looking to use all those things to better our position as a team.”

Schedule Aug. 25 at Scottsbluff Aug. 27 at Holdrege Invite

Aug. 30 at Alliance Sept. 3 at McCook Invite Sept. 6 CHADRON Sept. 9-10 at Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 13 CHASE CO. Sept. 15 SCOTTSBLUFF Sept. 17 at North Platte Classic Sept. 20 at Chadron Sept. 22 at Ogallala Duals

CROSS COUNTRY Girls Nickname: Bulldogs Class: B Conference: Western District: B-6 Last year’s conference finish: Second Last year’s district finish: Second Last year’s state finish: Eighth Head coach: Rick Marez (Eighth year) Assistant coaches: Lisa Freeburg, Jake Hasenauer, Mason Nabb Returning state qualifiers: Rebekah Rawlings, senior, 2ndplace conference, 2nd-place district, 4th-place state; Destiney Mueller, sophomore, 9th-place conference, 11th-place district, 37th-place state; Nicole Patton, junior, 5th-place conference, 8thplace district, 46th-place state Top newcomers: Tukker Romey, freshman; Carlie Sides, junior Season outlook: “We are going to be young with minimal experience running together,” Coach Marez said. “We have a couple of girls that will be great leaders, so the development of the team should be quick. Having a runner like Rebekah Rawlings, who is the best cheerleader on the team, will give the younger girls a needed confidence as they learn how to compete at a high level.

We will have a lot of fun trying to establish our identity as a group.”

Team strengths: “Eagerness to learn and a desire to work hard,” Marez said. “The positive influence within this group of girls can’t be matched. If we can develop our potential, we can be very competitive this season.”

Team goals: “Conference title and top-three finish,” Marez noted. “Finish higher than eighth at the state meet.”

BRAD STAMAN/Gering Courier

ABOVE: Here are the members of this year’s Gering High School girls cross country team. Pictured in the front row (from left to right) are Kristen Whaley, Morgan Van Anne, Kenna Culek, Gabby Lopez, Lydia Connot, and Shailee Patton. Pictured in the second row are Kiara Aguallo, Tukker Romey, Emma Fogle, Hassie Hood, Rachel Rawlings, Destiny Mueller, and Jaela Hardin. Pictured in the back row are Rebekah Rawlings, Nicole Patton, Nellie Kirk, Carlie Sides, Fansheska Plasencio, Arianna Guel, and Kelli Johnson.

BELOW: Here are the members of this year’s Gering High School boys cross country team. Pictured in the front row (from left to right) are Logan Andrew, Jeremy Cripp, Eli Sharrar, Donovan De Los Santos, Quinton Chavez, Peyton Seiten, and Jack Franklin. Pictured in the second row are Mykah Carley, Aaron Mendez, Trent Davis, Lucas Moravec, David Karpf, Adam Flowers, Alex Backus, Gavin Grant, Matthew Bohlman, and James Klemp. Pictured in the back row are Michael Hackett, Alex Brady, Logan Moravec, Tanner Walker, Nathan VanAnne, Xavier Arellano, Criztian Avalos, Conner Grant, Andres Canales, Conner Grant, Adam Moench, Cortex Arellano, Felipe Luna, and Christian Camacho.

Assistant coaches: Lisa Freeburg, Jake Hasenauer, Mason Nab Returning state qualifiers: Xavier Arellano, junior, 2ndplace conference, 3rd-place district, 12th-place state; Logan Moravec, sophomore, 7th-place conference, 11th-place district, 33rd-place state; Tanner Walker, senior, 10th-place conference, 19th-place district, 57th-place state Top newcomers: Alex Brady, senior Season outlook: “We should be Boys very competitive this year,” Coach Nickname: Bulldogs Marez said. “Having a couple of Class: B guys who have been around the Conference: Western program for several years will be District: B-6 Last year’s conference finish: a positive. We don’t have as many seniors this year as in years past, First Last year’s district finish: Third but the experience as a team will be invaluable this season. We Last year’s state finish: Ninth Head coach: Rick Marez plan to run in the front of most (Eighth year) races and give ourselves a chance

to run our best times every week.

Our numbers are great, once again, so that should help to develop confidence both physically and mentally.”

Team strengths: “Varsity experience,” Marez said. “We have a couple of guys who have finished

well at the district and state meets.

Positive support of each other is a strength we pride ourselves in as a team. We understand both the individual and team aspects of the sport.”

Team goals: “Build positive rapport with teammates,” Marez said.

“Give best effort every day. Repeat

as conference champions, finish top three at district meet, and finish above ninth place at the state meet.”

Last year’s highlights: “Winning via tie breaker for conference title,” Marez said. “Qualifying and competing well at the state meet. Every boy ran a PR at the state meet.”

Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

Page 15

VOLLEYBALL

MARK REIN/Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Gering High School volleyball team. Pictured in the front row (from left to right) are Courtney Conn, Kourtney Schanaman, and Mariah Conn. Pictured in the middle row are Jade Garcia, Brittney Spreier, Paige Lopez, and Lauren Whaley. Pictured in the back row are Victoria Schwartz, Arianna Mithcell, Carlee Brester, Mackenzie Dunkel, Jenna Balthazor, Brinley Pszanka, and Olivia Schaub.

Nickname: Bulldogs Class: B Conference: Western District: B-8 Last year’s record: 16-22 Head coach: Dave Lashley (Third year) Returning starters: (3)

Mariah Conn, 5-8, senior, middle hitter, 59 kills, 52 blocks, 61 digs; McKenzie Dunkel, 5-9, sophomore, middle hitter, 31 kills, 13 blocks, 16 digs; Arianna Mitchell, 5-10, sophomore, middle hitter, 118 kills, 39

blocks, 49 digs Returning varsity letter winners: Courtney Conn, 5-8, senior, outside hitter; Kourtney Schanaman, 5-1, senior, libero; Brittney Spreier, 5-7, junior, setter; Victoria Schwartz, 5-8,

junior, right side; Carlee Brester, 5-8, junior, middle hitter/right side Season outlook: “We will have a young inexperienced team that will likely improve tremendously as the season pro-

gresses,” Coach Lashley said. “These are talented young players that work hard and have a desire to succeed. Our seniors will give us very solid leadership to a team that has a lot of positive chemistry. I

would not be surprised to find us in contention for a district title at the end of the season. We will be extremely competitive, but if we get off to a good start then we could have a very good season.”

BOYS TENNIS Nickname: Bulldogs Class: B Last year’s dual record: 1-6 Head coach: Justin Reinmuth (Third year) Assistant coaches: Katie Collins, Darren Emerick Returning varsity starters: Grant Maser, senior; Josh Wilson, junior Returning varsity letter winners: Tyler Tjaden, senior; Brock Parker, sophomore; Juan Aguilar, senior; Derek Sabala, sophomore Top newcomers: Caleb Andrews, sophomore; Dyson Dollarhide, freshman; Coleton Bevins, freshman; Mark Karpf, freshman Team strengths: “Young and eager to get out on the courts and start competing,” Coach Reinmuth said.

Last year’s highlights: Jason Doll earned a No. 8 seeing in last year’s state tournament.

Schedule Aug. 25 at Scottsbluff Tri Aug. 27 at McCook Invite Sept. 3 at Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 10 at North Platte Invite Sept. 16 at Lexington BRAD STAMAN/Gering Courier Invite Here are the members of this year’s Gering High School boys tennis team. PIctured in the front row (from left to right) are Cole Bevins, Mark Sept. 20 TORRINGTON Karpf, and Dyson Dollarhide. Pictured in the back row are Brock Parker, Derek Sabala, Tyler Tjaden, Grant Maser, and Josh Wilson. Not Sept. 27 at Alliance pictured are Juan Aguilar, Jesus Aguilar, and Caleb Andrew.

Triangular

Fall Sports Preview Page 16

Thursday, August 25, 2016

H

emingford Bobcats

Nickname: Bobcats Class: D-1 Last year’s season record: 8-2 Conference: Panhandle and Western Trails District: 10 Last year’s district placing: Second Last year’s state playoffs: Hemingford advanced to the second round.

Head coach: Jordan Haas (7th season) Varsity assistant coaches: Taryn Wood, Brennan Vogel Returning offensive starters: 3 Returning defensive starters: 3 Returning starters: Jameson Wood, sr., 6-0, 190, QB/DB; Kage Jespersen, fr., 6-2, 225, FB/LB;

FOOTBALL Denton Payne, sr., 5-10, 225, OL/DL; Jon Mayer, sr., 5-9, 175, RB/LB Other returning letter winners: Brandon Chancellor, jr., 6-1, 230, TE/DL; Justin Davis, so., 5-5, 135, RB/DB; Dylan Ernesti, sr., 5-9, 165, DB; Tarin Jespersen, sr., 5-9, 200, OL/DL Top newcomers/transfers: Conner Swanson, jr., 5-9, 175, TE/LB Season outlook: “We will need to find out what our identity is and lean on it,” Coach Haas said. “We have some very talented football players on this team.

They are ready to take their turn. A tough schedule will mature this inexperienced team in a hurry. These kids know how to win and have put in the work to get it

done.”

Team strengths: “Talented skill position players will most likely be the strength of this team,” Haas said.

“On the front line we have limited starting experience but this group could come along quickly to become a strength of our team.”

Team goals: Compete for a district title and host a playoff game, Haas said.

Notes: Last season Mayer started a couple games at running back last year due to an injury to another player. … Swanson missed all of last season because of an injury.

Last year’s highlights: “Coming off a state championship, expectations are very high but I am very proud of how that group

LYLE FODNES/Hemingford Ledger

Here are members of Hemingford’s football team. Pictured are (front row, from left) Denton Payne, Tarin Jespersen, Jameson Wood, Jon Mayer, Dylan Ernesti, Creel Weber; (middle row) Coach Taryn Wood, Head Coach Jordan Haas, Conner Swanson, Boston Goodsell, Brandon Chancellor, Cade Payne, Miles Davis, Justin Davis, Nevin Swires, Kage Jespersen, Jack Payne; (back row) Xavier Robb, Jake Sellman, Gregory Randolph, Alex Plog, Carter Buchheit, Gabe Brown, Austin Farritor, and Gage Franklin.

came together and won a playoff game against a team who played us to 12 points in the regular season,” Haas said.

Former athletes competing in college: Matthew Wood, Brady Turek, and

Colt Foster, at at ChadSept. 9 Ainsworth ron State College; Tanner Sept. 16 at Overton Benge, Doane College; Sept. 23 Perkins Mathew Davis, Dakota County Wesleyan in Mitchell, S.D. Sept. 30 at Sutherland Schedule Oct. 6 Morrill Aug. 26 South Loup Oct. 21 at Dundy CounSept. 2 at Crawford ty-Stratton

CROSS COUNTRY GIRLS Nickname: Bobcats Class: D Conference: Western Trails Head coach: Cindy Lanik (17th season) Varsity assistant coach: Jayme Nunes Newcomer: Brooke Galles, sr.

Season outlook: “We are looking forward to seeing how well Brooke can compete. She is working hard in practice and working to find her race pace,” Coach Lanik said.

Keys to performing well this season/strengths: “Avoiding injuries, improving times and finding her optimum race pace,” Lanik said.

Season goals: “We want to work to improve individual times and compete hard in each meet,” Lanik said.

Note: Galles is participating in cross country for the first time.

Schedule Sept. 2 Gering Invite Sept. 9 Kimball Invite

Sept. 17 Alliance Invite Sept. 20 Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 22 Gordon-Rushville Invite Sept. 29 Bayard Invite Oct. 7 WTC at Kimball Oct. 13 Districts Oct. 21 State BOYS Nickname: Bobcats Class: D Conference: Western Trails Last year’s conference meet placing: Fifth District: 6 Last year’s district meet placing: Sixth Head coach: Cindy Lanik (17th season) Varsity assistant coach: Jayme Nunes Returning starters: Hadley Elder, sr.; Joe Mazanec, so.

Newcomers: Jacob Clouse, fr.; Jaydon Walker, fr.; Isaiah Bryner, fr.; Tayson Ernesti, fr.; Kobe Coryell, so.; Luke Cullan, so.; Austin Wobig, sr.; Casey Lashley, so.; Jacob Hollinrake, sr.; Peyton Sutphen, sr.; Hunter Ernesti, jr.

FOOTBALL

Aug. 26 .............South Loup Sept. 2 .................@ Crawford Sept. 9 ................Ainsworth Sept. 18 .................@ Overton

LYLE FODNES/Hemingford Ledger

Here are members of Hemingford’s cross country teams. Pictured are (front row, from left) Destiny Hanson, Alex Neefe, Kenny Wyland, John Ansley, Michael Cornish, Dali Del Toro; (second row) Isaiah Bryner, Kobe Coryell, Tayson Ernesti, Luke Cullan, Jaydon Walker, Casey Lashley, Joe Mazanec, Jacob Clouse; (back row) Coach Jayme Nunes, Jacob Hollinrake, Austin Wobig, Brooke Galles, Peyton Sutphen, Hunter Ernesti, and Coach Cindy Lanik. Not pictured are Mia Bates, Hadley Elder and Zack Rozmiarek.

Season outlook: “We are looking forward to the season and being able to compete competitively this year as a team,” Coach Lanik said. “We lost six seniors last year and two other

runners, but we have four freshmen moving up as well as some other runners that look promising. We will be young and inexperienced as far as running competitively in varsity

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pace, and working together,” Lanik said.

Season goals: “We want to work to improve individual times and compete hard in each meet,” Lanik said.

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meets, but we hope that by the end of the season we are competing well.”

Keys to performing well/ strengths: “Avoiding injuries, improving times and finding our optimum race

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Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

Page 17

VOLLEYBALL Nickname: Bobcats Class: C-2 Last year’s season record: 23-9 Conference: Panhandle, Western Trails Last year’s conference placings: 1st in Panhandle Conference; 5th in WTC District: 12 Last year’s district placing: Runner-up Head coach: Natalie Wood (2nd season) Varsity assistant coaches: Laura Shoemaker Returning starters (6): Natalie Gasseling, sr., 6-0, MB; Brooke Turek, sr., 5-9, MB; Emily Hanson, sr., 5-10, OH; Kaitlyn Kumpf, sr., 5-7, S; Faith Rohrbouck, sr., 5-8, OH; Kelli Horstman, jr., 5-8, RS; Anna Manning, jr., 5-5, DS Other returning letter winners: Carli Cullan, sr., 5-6, DS; Lauren Gasseling, so., 5-9, OH Season outlook: “We hope to build on a successful 2015 season, but we are aware that a new season brings new challenges,” Coach Wood said. “We didn’t graduate any starters from last year’s team so our experience and senior leadership will be key. We will be strong up front and will look to utilize our power hitters with better ball control. Even though our main focus is on the present season we also have a goal to build tradition in the Hemingford program.

The seniors will play a vital role in setting the tone and in helping develop the younger players.”

LYLE FODNES/Hemingford Ledger

Here are members of Hemingford’s volleyball team. Pictured are (front row, from left) Emily Knote, Makenzy Chancellor, Rashell Neefe, Storm Jespersen, Jori Stewart, Shaylynn McConville; (middle row) Anna Manning, Katie Dahl, Natalie Gasseling, Kaitlyn Kumpf, Faith Rohrbouck, Carli Cullan, Emily Hansen, Brooke Turek, Kelli Horstman, Head Coach Natalie Wood; (back row) Lora Wurst, Ashley Mutchie, Lauren Gasseling, Josie Stewart, Mackenzie Glendy, Avery Davies, and Coach Laura Shoemaker.

Team strengths: Strong front-row attack and senior leadership, Wood said.

Team goals: Repeat as champions of Panhandle Conference, improve on its final standing in Western Trails Conference, and compete for a district title, Wood said.

Notes: Last season Gasseling was named the PC Player of the Year, WTC All-Conference, and Star-Herald All-Region Second Team. She had

K

284 kills, 46 aces, and 27 blocks. … Turek was named WTC All-Conference, Panhandle Conference First Team, and Star-Herald All-Region Fourth Team. She had 252 kills, 48 aces, and 56 blocks. … Hanson was tabbed WTC Honorable Mention and PC Honorable Mention. she had 145 kills and nine blocks. … Kumpf was named WTC Honorable Mention, PC Second Team,

and Star-Herald All-Region Honorable Mention.

She had 554 assists and 51 digs. … Rohrbouck was named PC Honorable Mention. She had 107 kills and 77 digs. … Horstman had 94 kills, 23 aces, and 51 digs. … Manning had 70 digs. … Cullan had 29 aces and 50 digs.

Last year’s highlights: “Beating Bridgeport who had defeated us all season in the sub district final [and] having the best

record in school history (23-9),” Wood said.

Schedule Sept. 1 at Mitchell Sept. 6 Banner County Triangular Sept. 10 Sheridan County Invite Sept. 13 Hemingford Triangular Sept. 15 Edgemont Sept. 17 Hemingford Invite Sept. 20 Hemingford Triangular Sept. 24 Mitchell

Invite Sept. 26 Bayard Triangular Oct. 4 Crawford Oct. 13 at Bayard Oct. 15 Panhandle Conference at Hay Springs Oct. 17 at Gordon-Rushville Oct. 18 Hay Springs Oct. 22 WTC at Bayard Oct. 24 Sioux County Triangular Oct. 31-Nov. 1 Subdistricts

imball Fall Sports FOOTBALL

Courtesy photo

Here are the members of this year’s Kimball High School football team.

Nickname: Longhorns Class: C-2 Conference: Western Trails District: C2-10 Last year’s record: 1-8 Head coach: Nick Kuxhausen (Fifth year) Returning starters: (7) Jaden Withrow, 5-9, 170, senior, QB/DB, threeyear starter; Logan Stahla, 5-8, 170, senior, FB/ LB, two-year starter; Kyle Spicer, 5-7, 165, senior, WR/DB, two-year starter; Sam Tussing, 5-8, 170, senior, OL/LB;

Eric Escajeda, 5-8, 275, senior, OL/DL; Coby Kirby, 5-10, 230, junior, OL/DL; Paycen Harroun, 6-1, 180, junior, OL/DE Returning letter winners: Ryan Soper, 6-1, 165, junior, WR/DB; Kole Bush, 5-11, 170, junior, WR/DB; Aroon Flores, 5-8, 215, sophomore, OL/DL; Izaac Reuter, 6-1, 160, sophomore, QB/DB; Corey Travis, 6-0, 200, sophomore, OL/DL; Brady Kilgore, 6-1, 155, sophomore, WR/DB; Jake

Jenkins, 5-7, 145, sophomore, IB/DB; Toby McManigal, 5-6, 180, sophomore, OL/DL; James Merryfield, 6-0, 215, sophomore, FB/LB; Jaden Mohr, 5-10, 155, junior, OL/DL Season outlook: “We will have a very young team with a lot of potential to grow and excel,” Coach Kuxhausen said. “We should be very competitive in most games and will need to mature fast to be able to win close ball games.

Our team strengths will

be our speed and skill players. We will return both Jaden Withrow and Logan Stahla in the back field, as they both missed most of last season with knee injuries. Having both of them back will help both our offense and defense a lot. The offensive and defensive line will be a big key in our success this season.

We will bring back quality experience with several of our linemen, and if our newcomers can mature and develop we should have a solid unit.

Our team weakness will be in our size and inexperience in several positions. Our schedule is very tough and we will be challenged week in and week out.”

Top competition: “We play a very tough schedule and expect tough competition each week we play,” Kuxhausen said. “Within the district we look for North Platte St. Pat’s to be the team to beat. Hershey, Valentine, and Bridgeport should be very competitive as well.”

Schedule Aug. 26 at Centura Sept. 2 G O R DON-RUSHVILLE Sept. 9 at Mitchell Sept. 16 CHASE COUNTY Sept. 23 at Hershey Sept. 30 BRIDGEPORT Oct. 7 at Bayard Oct. 14 at North Platte St. Pat’s Oct. 21 VALENTINE

Fall Sports Preview Page 18

Thursday, August 25, 2016

GIRLS GOLF

CROSS COUNTRY Nickname: Longhorns Class: D Conference: Western Trails, SPVA District: D-6 Last year’s conference finish: Fourth in WTC, third in SPVA Last year’s district finish: Fourth Head coach: Tiffany Johnson (10th year) Assistant coach: Laurie Janicek Returning state qualifiers: Brandon Barker, senior, seventh in WTC, third in SPVA, third in district, 34th in state; Zach Wagner, sophomore, 11th in WTC, eighth in SPVA, 15th in district, 67th in state Returning varsity letter winners: Kaden Adrian, junior, 18th in WTC, 19th in SPVA, 39th in district; Nicholas Thomas-Lewis, junior, 34th in WTC, 34th in SPVA, 51st in district; Joel Evertson, senior, 21st in WTC, 21st in SPVA, 47th in district; Thomas Lenzen, sophomore, 24th in WTC, 29th in SPVA, 49th in state Top newcomers: Zayver White, freshman; Alex Flores, freshman Season outlook: “We have all of our boys returning from last year with an addition of two more,” Coach Johnson said. “They are continually pushing each other in practice and wanting each other to get better. We look for them to be competitive as a team throughout the season.”

Team strengths: “Our whole team returned from last year and they are eager to do better,” Johnson said. “They continually push each other in practice.”

Team goals: “To finish as one of the top two teams at WTC/SPVA and to make it to state as a team,” Johnson noted.

Last year’s highlights: “Qualifying two individuals for the state meet,” Johnson said.

CHAUNCEY PEDERSEN/For the Star-Herald

Members of this year’s Kimball High School girls golf team are Lila Moore (left) and Leisha Casimiro. Head coach of the team is Katie Culek.

Nickname: Longhorns Class: C Conference: Western Trails District: C-5 Head coach: Katie Culek (First year) Returning varsity golfers: Lila Moore Top newcomers: Leisha Casimiro Season outlook: “The season is going to be good and we are looking forward to our girls learning and working on taking a few strokes off their current game,” Coach Culek said. “They do not have much experience with tournaments, but they are looking forward to competing.”

Schedule Aug. 23 Sidney Invite Aug. 25 Bayard Invite Aug. 30 KIMBALL INVITE-WTC Sept. 1 Creek Valley Invite Sept. 13 Gering Invite Sept. 20 Ogallala Invite Sept. 22 Bridgeport Invite

JEFF FIELDER/Star-Herald

The Kimball High School cross country team will open its season in the Gering Invite on Sept. 2.

VOLLEYBALL

09/01/16 ......................... @ Bridgeport 09/06/16 ................. Garden County 09/06/16 ...................... Bridgeport 09/08/16 .......................Potter-Dix 09/08/16 ......................... Mitchell 09/20/16 ..............................@ Alliance 09/22/16 ...........................Sidney 09/22/16 ........................... Gering 10/04/16 ...........................Bayard 10/04/16 .......................Potter-Dix

CROSS COUNTRY

9/2..........................................@ Gering 9/9........................................ @ Kimball 9/17......................................@ Alliance 9/20................................. @ Scottsbluff 9/22......................................@ Ogallala 9/29............................... @ Gothenburg 10/6......................................... @ Grant 10/7...................................... @ Kimball 10/13........................... @ Districts TBA 10/21............................@ State @ UNK

GIRLS’ GOLF FOOTBALL

08/25/16 .............................@ Centura 09/02/16 ................ Gordon-Rushville 09/09/16 ............................. @ Mitchell 09/16/16 ......................Chase County 09/23/16 ............................ @ Hershey

09/30/16 ............................Bridgeport 10/07/16 .............................. @ Bayard 10/14/16 .. @ North Platte St. Patrick’s 10/21/16 .............................. Valentine

8/23....................................... @ Sidney 8/25....................................... @ Bayard 8/30..............................@ Kimball WTC 9/1.......................................@ Chappell 9/8........................................@ Mitchell 9/13........................................@ Gering 9/19......................................@ Ogallala 9/22................................. @ Bridgeport 10/3-4 ......................... @ Districts TBA 10/10-11 .................................. @ State

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Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

Page 19

VOLLEYBALL

CHAUNCEY PEDERSEN/For the Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Kimball High School volleyball team.

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Nickname: Longhorns Class: C-2 Conference: Western Trails, SPVA Sub-district: C2-12 Last year’s record: 19-10 Last year’s conference finish: First WTC regular season, runner-up WTC tourney, runner-up SPVA Last year’s sub-district finish: C1-12 runner-up Head coach: Jeri Ferguson (Second year) Assistant coach: Erin Monheiser Returning starters: (1) Raelynn Hinton, 5-8, senior, outside hitter Returning letter winners: Jannel Feihtner, 5-8, senior, outside hitter; Shauntae Daily, 5-9, senior, middle hitter; Kaitlin Wurdeman, 5-9, senior, middle hitter; Hanna Klosterman, 5-3, senior, setter; Hannah Biesecker, 5-9, junior, outside hitter/middle hitter; Justine Heeg, 5-5, junior, setter Season outlook: “We look to continue to grow on the momentum that was set last year,” Coach Ferguson said. “We look to be very competitive in each and every game we play.”

Team strengths: “Lots of returning letter winners and they also had a successful junior varsity season, so we look for them to continue to improve this season,” Ferguson said. “We also have a junior, Alex Reader, returning to volleyball after running cross country last year. She brings a new element to our team. Add to that we have some sophomores that are improving on a daily basis and we look for them to help make our team stronger and better.”

Team goals: “To be competitive in both our conferences and be strong enough to make a run at the district title,” Ferguson said.

Last year’s highlights: “Winning WTC regular season title and being runner-up in both of our conference tournaments,” Ferguson noted.

Former players competing in college: Danika Daum, WNCC; Madison Biesecker, Southeast Community College; Mikayla Feightner, junior college in Iowa

eyton Warriors

Nickname: Warriors Class: D-2 Conference: Minuteman Activities Sub-district: D2-11 Last year’s record: 23-7 Last year’s conference finish: Regular-season champion, runner-up in tournament Head coach: Jodi Craig (19th year) Assistant coach: Jennifer Gipfert Returning starters: (3) Taylor Berner, 5-7, senior, setter; Hope Dykman, 5-6, senior, outside hitter/defensive specialist; Cheyenne Nickel, 5-9, senior, middle hitter Returning letter winners: Taylor Borges, 5-7, junior, outside hitter; Abbe Draper, 5-7, senior, right side/outside hitter; Bailey Miller, 5-9, senior, setter/right side Top newcomers: Danielle Higgins, 5-6, sophomore, setter; Destinee Henke, 5-10, sophomore, hitter; Carly Fortune, 5-6, sophomore, outside hitter; Maddy

VOLLEYBALL

JODI CRAIG/For the Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Leyton High School volleyball team. Pictured in the front row (from left to right) are Bailey Miller, Hope Dykman, Taylor Berner, Abbe Draper, and Cheyenne Nickel.

Pictured in the middle row are Morgan Reed, Janessa Carley, Madison Widener, Megan Ernest, Felicity Neemann, Mayson Rowan, and Alyson Holt. Pictured in the back row are Manager Jillian Ehlers, Carly Fortune, Alyssa Powell, Mariah Draper, Danielle Higgins, Destinee Henke, Taylor Borges, Madelyn Watchorn, Kelcie VanAnne, and Manager Ella Draper.

Watchorn, 5-10, freshman, mid- hitter/defensive specialist Season outlook: “We are lookdle hitter/outside hitter; Megan ing to be competitive against all Ernest, 5-5, freshman, outside our opponents,” Coach Craig

said. “We are going to need to serve aggressively and serve receive consistently in order to be a threat offensively. We don’t

have much height at the net, so will have to hustle defensively as well. Returning a few starters is a strenght for our team, but will also need their leadership as we will have young, inexperienced players on the floor as well. This crew of girls is very cohesive and supportive of each other, so I look forward to watching them work together and progress as a team.”

Team goals: “Of course one of our team goals is always to earn a conference championship and trip to the state tournament, but more importantly, we look at improving on things from game to game,” Craig said.

Last year’s highlights: “Winning the regular season conference championship and making it to the championship game of the MAC Tournament for the 10th consecutive year,” Craig noted.

Former players competing in college: Diedra Waite, Southeast Community College; Kristine Barnett, Southeast Community College; Katy Ernest, University of Nebraska Kearney

Volleyball

Football

09/02....................Waneta-Palisade 09/09..............................@ Wallace 09/16..................................... Morrill 09/23...................... @ Creek Valley 09/30............................... @ Paxton 10/07.................................Crawford 10/14.......................Garden County 10/20................................@ Mullen

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09/01........................Garden County 09/09...............................@ Wallace 09/10..Garden County Round Robin 09/13................................ @ Paxton 09/17................. Bridgeport Tourney 09/20................................Bayard Tri 09/22....................... Hay Springs Tri 09/24.......................... Mitchell Invite 09/29...........................@ Bridgeport 10/04.......................Creek Valley Tri 10/06.................. @ Pine Bluffs, WY 10/11........................ Sedgewick Co. 10/15......... Minuteman Conf/Bayard 10/18...................Banner County Tri 10/20.................................@ Mullen 10/25............................Leyton Invite

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Fall Sports Preview Page 20

Thursday, August 25, 2016

FOOTBALL

BUFFY DYE/For the Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Leyton High School football team. Pictured in the front row (from left to right) are Manager Jonathon Borges, Drew Haley, Tristan Knuth, Ethan Young, Triston Hume, Kort Dye, Jack Houk, Skylar Mier, Drew Brenner, Josh Kruse, Manager Scout Gamble, and Manager Zac Henke. Pictured in the back row are Manager Brayden Haley, Manager Brenton Abbott, Blake Miller, David George, Teagan Brogren, Zack Hellie, Kenny Ernest, Matt Gargula, Skylar Schumacher, Morley Haley, Jeremy Carley, and Coach Cody Gamble. Not pictured are Head Coach Glen Lipska and Coach Walker Dobry.

Nickname: Warriors Class: D-2 Conference Minuteman Activities District: D2-10 Last year’s record: 3-6, lost to Garden County in first round

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of D-2 state playoffs Head coach: Glen Lipska (13th year) Returning starters: Zach Hellie, 6-0, 180, senior, WR/LB, 542 receiving yards, 8 TD; Morley Haley,

5-10, 150, senior, RB/ LB; Kenny Ernest, 6-3, 170, senior, TE/DE; Skylar Schumacher, 6-0, 210, senior, OL; Teagan Brogren, 6-1, 220, senior, OL/DE; Drew Brenner, 5-9,

150, senior, WR/LB Returning letter winners: Kort Dye, 5-8, 145, junior, QB/DB; Jack Houk, 5-8, 150, senior, OL/DL; Josh Kruse, 5-9, 155, sophomore, QB/LB

Schedule Sept. 2 W A U N E TA-PALISADE Sept. 9 at Wallace Sept. 16 MORRILL Sept. 23 at Creek

Valley Sept. 30 at Paxton Oct. 7 CRAWFORD Oct. 14 GARDEN COUNTY Oct. 20 at Mullen

ingle-Ft. Laramie Doggers VOLLEYBALL

Photo by Torrington Telegram

Here are members of Lingle-Ft. Laramie’s volleyball team.

Lingle-Ft. Laramie Nickname: Doggers Class: 1A Last year’s overall record: 19-10 Last year’s regional placing: Second Last year’s state tournament placing: Fourth Head coach: Barb Clark (4th season) Varsity assistant coach: Kim Cooper Returning starters: Jade Cooper, jr., S; Georgia Wollert, Sr., M; McKenna Gre-

enwald, Sr., OH; Amanda Riley, jr., M; Morea Shipley, Sr., OH; Kaylynn Jefferson, Sr., Opp Season outlook: “Most of our regular scheduled games are with the 2A teams in the SEWAC, which is good for us because they are strong teams and make us stronger and more competitive,” Coach Clark said. “In the SEWAC Southeast, Pine Bluffs and Burns are always tough competitors. Lusk, under

the new coach, is showing some great improvement.

In the region, I look to see Kaycee as a strong opponent again this year. Rock River continues to grow as a team, and Hanna Elk – Medicine Bow has shown some strong play also. Of course a team never wants to look past Upton.”

Team strengths: “I believe that LFL volleyball should be stronger than ever,” Clark said. “We have kids that have been at state

volleyball for three years either playing or warming up for games. They have been witness to LFL playing in a championship game and also the 3-4 game. I have seniors who have been longing to be the leaders of this team. Our skills and team unity should be at an all-time high. This group of girls should be able do something that hasn’t ever happened for LFL volleyball before and that is a state championship.”

Team goals: “Win Regionals and State. Bring home for the first time ever for LFL the state championship trophy,” Clark said.

Last year’s highlights: Placing second at regionals and beating Cokeville in the state tourney, Clark said.

Schedule Aug. 26 LFL Invite Aug. 30 at Guernsey-Sunrise Sept. 1 at Burns Sept. 10 HEM Tour-

ney at Hanna Sept. 16 Lusk Sept. 17 Lusk Invite Sept. 22 at Pine Bluffs Sept. 23 at Southeast Sept. 30 Burns Oct. 7-8 Kaycee Invite Oct. 14 Guernsey-Sunrise Oct. 15 Pine Bluffs Oct. 20 Southeast Oct. 22 at Lusk Oct. 28-29 Regionals at Casper Nov. 3-5 State at Casper

Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

Page 21

FOOTBALL Nickname: Doggers Head coach: Matthew Cornelius (1st season) Last year’s season record: 7-3 Letter winners back: 4 Letter winners lost: 4 Last year’s state playoffs: LFL lost to Tongue River 28-9 Offensive starters back: 4 Defensive starters back: 4 Varsity candidates: Dallen Fleenor, 5-8, 150, TB/S, Sr.; Garrett Cooper, 6-0, 190, QB/MLB, Sr.; Preston Bowers, 5-8, 165, WR/ OLB, Sr.; Jared Shepardson, 5-9, 170, OLB/C, Sr. Season outlook: “We are not eligible for the playoffs this year, so I cannot begin to explain how proud I am

M

for these players to come out this year,” Coach Cornelius said. “It shows true love of the game and it speaks volumes about their character to come out day after day and put in that amount of work, knowing they are not able to advance at the end of the year.”

Offensive outlook: “Every team has an offensive identity,” Cornelius said.

“We are a little behind the curve for two major reasons. This is the first year at the 6-man level and also this is my first year as their head coach. So there will be quite a learning curve for everyone involved. We are very athletic and the kids are hard workers, so

we will begin mostly traditional, but hope to add some interesting misdirection things as we go and get more comfortable.”

Defensive outlook: “Strictly man to man,” Cornelius said.

Other comments: “Since I am the new guy in the coaching circle, I am still learning the ropes,” Cornelius said. “The first game out of the block we will play Little Snake River who always has a reputation of playing good, fundamental football. We also have Guernsey-Sunrise on the schedule who are 30 miles down the road. That should be a well attended and intense game.”

Photo by Torrington Telegram

Here are members of Lingle-Ft. Laramie’s football team. Pictured are (back row, from left) Jaden McDuffie, Garrett Cooper, Ty Mueller, Jackson Gregory, Brandon Hill; (middle row) Cole Shepardson, Jared Shepardson, Preston Bowers, Gaven Niles, Jacob Korell, Elias Dodson, Hayden Hill, Dallen Fleenor; (front row) Zane Rising, Rayden Alonzo, Bailey Powell, Christian Burton, Gage Correa, Alex Pugsley, and Scottdiesel Gilchriest.

inatare Indians

Nickname: Indians Class: 6-man Last year’s record: 3-5 Head coach: J.J. Ozuna (Fifth year) Returning starters (6): Gilbert Rodriguez, 5-7, 180, junior, QB/ LB, 600 yards passing; Ephroen Lovato, 6-0, 200, sophomore, RB/ LB, 42 tackles, 1 INT, two forced fumbles; Kyler Lane, 6-2 205, senior, WR/DL; Marco Martinez, 5-5, 225, sophomore, OL/DL; Rome Lerma, 5-10, 275, senior, OL/DL Other returning letter winners: Destin Standley, 5-10, 160, senior, OL/DL; Ivan Gibbons, 5-8, 130, sophomore Top newcomers: Kaleb Gonzales, 5-6, 140, freshman, RB/LB; Isaac Gomez, 5-7, 175, freshman, OL/DL; Caesar Garduno, 6-1, 275, freshman, OL/DL Season outlook: “Looking to stay low in injuries with the lower than average numbers on the team,” Coach Ozuna said. “We will have a fairly young team, so getting quality reps and experience early will be key to help our

FOOTBALL

Courtesy photo

Here are the members of this year’s Minatare High School football team.

team grow and mature. Being Team strengths: “Although better themselves day in and day able to handle adversity positive- having the low numbers, the big- out,” Ozuna said. ly as a team will greatly deter- gest strength we have is the kids Team goals: “We want to be mine how this season will go.” that we have out are willing to competitive every game,” Ozuna

VOLLEYBALL 09/01 ....................................... Minatare Tri 09/02 .................................@ Cody-Kilgore 09/30 ................................... @ Hay Springs 10/04 ............................Garden County Tri 10/13 ..............................................@ Morrill 10/20 ...............................................Bayard

said. “Having everyone on the team off the “down list” academic wise at any given time is another goal we have set.”

FOOTBALL

08/26 .................... South Platte 09/02 .............. @ Cody-Kilgore 09/09 .................Arthur County 09/16 ...........@ Banner County 09/23 ........................ Potter-Dix 09/30 ................. @ Hay Springs 10/14 ........................@ Hyannis 10/21 .................. Sioux County

Home games in bold

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Fall Sports Preview Page 22

Thursday, August 25, 2016

VOLLEYBALL

SCHYLER FERGUSON/For the Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Minatare High School volleyball team.

M

Nickname: Indians Class: D-2 Conference: Minuteman Activities Sub-district: D2-11 Last year’s record: 1-23 Head coach: Schyler Ferguson (First year) Assistant coach: Diana Closson Returning varsity letter winners: Jackie Martinez, sophomore; Alexandra Garcia, sophomore; Kyeshia Garza, junior; Yesenia Ramirez, junior; Kristin Clause, sophomore; Araceli Garcia, sophomore; Destiny Craig, senior; Haily Clause, sophomore; Lidia Sanchez, sophomore; Zulema Garfio, sophomore; Alejandra Sanchez, sophomore; Yvette Garza, sophomore Season outlook: “Very young team just trying to get some experience for the next couple seasons,” Coach Ferguson said.

Team strengths: “Very quick, getting to spots on the court,” Ferguson said.

Team goals: “To win more games this year,” Ferguson noted.

itchell Tigers

Nickname: Tigers Class: C-1 Conference: Western Trails District: C1-10 Last year’s record: 5-3 Head coach: Jimmie Rhodes (Second year) Assistant coaches: Joe Yauney, Anthony Chancellor, Todd Westover, Walker Britsch, Kyle King

FOOTBALL Returning starters: (11) Chris Perez, 5-10, 165, senior, WR/DB; Abe Hernandez, 6-0, 170, senior, WR/DB; Trent Strawder, 5-11, 185, senior, FB/LB; Seth Marcoe, 5-9, 180, senior, WR/LB/K; Darryn Walters, 5-9, 150, senior, WR/DB; Noah Hernandez, 6-2, 310, senior, OL/DL; Ethan Einfalt, 6-3, 300, se-

nior, OL/DL; Bailey Branson, 5-10, 285, senior, OL/ DL; Cleveland Burnett, 6-4, 315, senior, OL/DL; Drake Gilliland, 5-8, 165, junior, RB/LB; Casey Peterson, 5-9, 175, junior, FB/LB Returning letter winners: Riley Reisig, 6-2, 190, junior, OL/DL; Justin Spencer, 5-9, 145, junior, WR/ DB; Dylan Lower, 6-3, 180,

junior, WR/DB; Hunter Lemley, 5-10, 160, sophomore, RB/LB; Ian Carrier, 6-2, 305, sophomore, OL/ DL Top newcomers: Blake Thyne, 6-2, 155, freshman, QB/LB; Kaden Bradley, 5-10, 150, freshman, WR/LB Season outlook: “Mitch-

MITCHELL Tigers Home Games Listed in Bold

ell returns a group of leaders that are thirsty to continue what they started in 2015,” Coach Rhodes said.

“The Tigers’ experience and team speed is what the group will build off of. The attitude of putting the team first will make this group very competitive and dangerous.”

Schedule Aug. 26 BAYARD Sept. 2 at Pine Bluffs Sept. 9 KIMBALL Sept. 16 BRIDGEPORT Sept. 23 at Gordon-Rushville Sept. 30 at Kearney Catholic Oct. 7 at Chase County Oct. 14 CHADRON Oct. 21 at Ogallala

TIGER CROSS COUNTRY

September 2 ...............................Gering Invitational September 9 ............................. Kimball Invitational September 10 ......................... Chadron Invitational September 17 ...........................Alliance Invitational September 20 ......................Scottsbluff Invitational September 22 ...........................Gordon Invitational September 26 .......................... Kearney Invitational September 29 ............................Bayard Invitational October 1 ........................................Invitational TBA October 7 ...............................................WTC - TBA October 13 ......................................... District - TBA

TIGER GIRLS GOLF

TIGER VOLLEYBALL

September 1 .........................................Hemingford September 6 ................................................. Sidney September 8 ..........................Potter-Dix Triangular September 10 ....................Gordon/Rushville Invite September 13 ...........................................@ Bayard September 15 ........................................... Crawford September 22 .................... Hay Springs Triangular September 24 ...........................Mitchell Invitational September 27 ............................. @ Southeast, WY October 1 ...................................Morrill Invitiational October 4 .......................................................Morrill October 8 .................Western Conference Tourney October 13 ..........................................@ Bridgeport October 18 ..........................Creek Valley Triangular October 22 .......Western Trail Conference Tourney October 25 ............................ Bridgeport Triangular

August 25 ...................... Mitchell Invitational A A August 27 .................................. Sidney Invitational A August 29 ............................Scottsbluff Invitational A August 30 ................................. Kimball Invitational S September 1 ..................... Creek Valley Invitational S September 8 .................. Mitchell Invitational September 13 .............................Gering Invitational September 19 ...........................Ogallala Invitational September 22 ......................Bridgeport Invitational September 24 ...........................Alliance Invitational September 26 .......... Gordon-Rushville Invitational September 28 .............................Gering Invitational October 3 ....................................................Districts October 10 & 11.............................................. State

TIGER FOOTBALL

August 26 ...................................... Bayard September 2 ..............................@ Pine Bluffs, WY September 9 ................................. Kimball September 16 ............................. Bridgeport September 23 .........................@ Gordon-Rushville September 30 .......................... @ Kearney Catholic October 7 ..............................Chase County October 14 ....................................Chadron October 21 ..............................................@ Ogallala

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Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

Page 23

VOLLEYBALL

MICHELLE PETERS/For the Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Mitchell High School volleyball team.

Nickname: Tigers Class: C-1 Conference: Western, Western Trails Sub-district: C1-12 Last year’s record: 18-13 Last year’s conference finish: Fourth in WTC, sixth in Western Head coach: Michelle Peters (15th year) Overall coaching record at school: 240-143 Assistant coaches: Kaitlin Luikens, Amie Hessler Returning starters: (6)

Jori Peters, 5-4, junior, setter/outside hitter, 258 kills, 293 assists, 513 digs; Anabelle Gillen, 5-6, sophomore, setter/outside hitter, 219 kills, 273 assists, 372 digs; Keyana Wilfred, 6-3, sophomore, middle hitter, 88 kills, 98 solo blocks, 52 digs; Devin Beaver, 5-9, senior, right side, 346 digs; Peyton Beaver, 6-0, sophomore, right side, 40 kills, 51 solo blocks; Jessica Cotant, 5-10, sophomore, middle hitter, 16 kills, 30 solo blocks

Returning letter winners: Olivia Armstrong, 5-7, junior, libero; Bethany Sterkel, 5-6, sophomore, defensive specialist/right side Season outlook: “Our team returns leadership, experience, competitiveness, and a passion for the game,” Coach Peters said.

“We have height and players that see the floor really well. Our hitters look stronger and more consistent than last season. Speed and defense from our back

row will be a great strength for us, as well as solid servers. These kids put in lots of time in the summer to make them better players and commit to being great athletes. Their team chemistry is great and they enjoy playing the game. These kids have a passion to not only compete, they want to win.”

Team strengths: “Experience, scrappy defense, height, team chemistry,” Peters said.

Team goals: “Improve our game every time we step on the floor,” Peters said. “Compete hard in both conferences, 20 or more wins, compete for a state tourney berth.”

Schedule Sept. 1 HEMINGFORD Sept. 6 SIDNEY Sept. 8 at Potter-Dix Triangular Sept. 10 at Sheridan County Invite Sept. 13 at Bayard Sept. 15 CRAWFORD

Sept. 22 at Hay Springs Triangular Sept. 24 MITCHELL INVITE Sept. 27 at Southeast, Wyo. Oct. 1 at Morrill Invite Oct. 4 MORRILL Oct. 8 Western Conference Tournament at Scottsbluff Oct. 13 at Bridgeport Oct. 18 at Creek Valley Triangular Oct. 22 Western Trails Tournament at Bayard Oct. 25 at Bridgeport Triangular

CROSS COUNTRY

MARIA GILLEN/For the Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Mitchell High School cross country team.

Joseph Pieper, senior Top newcomers: JohnaClass: C than Pieper, freshman Conference: Western, Team strengths: ExpeWestern Trails rience District: C-4 Team goals: ConferLast year’s conference ence title (WTC) finish: Second in Western, first in WTC Schedule Last year’s district fin- Sept. 2 Gering Invite ish: First Sept. 9 Kimball Invite Last year’s state finish: Sept. 10 Chadron Invite Sixth Sept. 17 Alliance Invite Head coach: Mike Har- Sept. 20 Panhandle Clasriger (Seventh year) sic at Scottsbluff Returning state quali- Sept. 22 G ord on - Ru s h fiers: Max Avila, junior; ville Invite

Boys

Sept. 26 UNK Invite Sept. 29 Bayard Invite Oct. 1 Western Conference at Chadron Oct. 7 Western Trails Conference at Kimball

Returning state qualifiers: Celeste Cardona, senior, returning conference champion, returning district champion, seventh-place state finish; Madi WatGirls son, senior, third-place conference finish, secClass: C Conference: Western, ond-place district finish, 14th-place state finWestern Trails ish District: C-4 Returning letter winLast year’s district finners: Nataxha Perez, ish: Sixth Haleigh Head coach: Mike Har- sophomore; riger (Seventh year) Crable, sophomore

Top newcomers: Hannah Knepper, sophomore, transfer from Beatrice; Ansley Hessler, freshman Season outlook: “Looking forward to a good season for the girls,” Coach Harriger said.

Team strengths: “Good experience and leadership,” Harriger said.

Team goals: “Conference title (WTC) and good showing at state meet,” Harriger noted.

Schedule Sept. 2 Gering Invite Sept. 9 Kimball Invite Sept. 10 Chadron Invite Sept. 17 Alliance Invite Sept. 20 Panhandle Classic at Scottsbluff Sept. 22 G ord on - Ru s h ville Invite Sept. 26 UNK Invite Sept. 29 Bayard Invite Oct. 1 Western Conference at Chadron Oct. 7 Western Trails Conference at Kimball

Fall Sports Preview Page 24

Thursday, August 25, 2016

GIRLS GOLF

MARIA GILLEN/For the Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Mitchell High School girls golf team.

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orrill Lions FOOTBALL

JOSH GUERUE/For the Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Morrill High School football team. Pictured in the front row (from left to right) are Desmend Gomez, Aaron Lopez, and Ben Cantu. Pictured in the middle row are Jerry Tarin, Nathaniel Murillo, Isaiah Ramirez, Rowdy Lind, Will Howell, Trevor Cecil, Riley Harris, Jason Ruiz, and Houston Gonzalez. Pictured in the back row are Braeden Struempler, Jonny Hessler, Keaton Robb, Hunter Craig, Tanner Whetham, Adam Kindred, Jayden Harvey, Seth Sherwood, and Andy Gomez.

Nickname: Lions Class: D-1 District: D1-10 Last year’s record: 3-5 Head coach: Adam Jantzi (First year) Assistant coaches: Colby Folck, Ryan Burnison, Josh Hopkins, Matt Hessler Returning starters: Will

Howell, 5-11, 190, junior, FB/LB; Trevor Cecil, 5-9, 135, junior, QB/DB; Ben Cantu, 5-10, 225, senior, OL/DL; Jonny Hessler, 5-10, 225, junior, TE/DE; Aaron Lopez, 5-10, 225, senior, TE/DE; Desmend Gomez, 5-9, 285, senior, OL/DL

Top newcomers: Keaton Robb, 5-9, 155, sophomore, RB/DB; Tanner Whetham, 6-3, 175, freshman, QB/LB Season outlook: “As a team we are looking to have a good season this fall,” Coach Jantzi said.

“We are young, but talented. We have a good core of

guys who have worked in the weightroom and on the field this summer and that has really helped us to jel.

We have gotten a lot more athletic already and I think our work ethic will help us a lot down the road. As a team I think we are all excited and ready for the sea-

son to start.”

Team strengths: “We have a lot of size up front on both sides of the ball,” Jantzi said.

Team goals: For this year we want to have a winning season and make the playoffs,” Jantzi said. “We would like to win our district.”

Schedule Aug. 26 at Garden County Sept. 2 at Creek Valley Sept. 9 CRAWFORD Sept. 16 at Leyton Sept. 23 SUTHERLAND Oct. 6 at Hemingford Oct. 14 DUNDY COUNTY-STRATTON Oct. 20 PERKINS CO.

Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

Page 25

VOLLEYBALL Nickname: Lions Class: D-1 Conference: Western Trails, Panhandle Sub-district: D1-12 Last year’s record: 13-16 Head coach: Kristen Gompert (First year) Returning starters: (4) Shalyn Lackey, 5-6, senior, setter; Jessica Harvey, 5-7, senior, outside hitter; Kaitlyn Margheim, 5-8, senior, right side; Bailey Steiner, 5-8, senior, middle hitter Returning letter winners: Lily Martin, 5-10, junior, middle hitter; Stefani Tarin, 5-5, senior, setter Season outlook: “We will be guided by tremendous senior leadership this upcoming season. With a good group of young players entering the program, it looks to be an exciting year,” Coach Gompert said. “We will be led by Harvey at the outside hitter position and Lackey at the setter position. We will look to play an explosive and aggressive style of volleyball utilizing many talented girls. The girls have shown great team chemistry throughout the summer league play. The leadership from the seniors has been special thus far. I am beyond excited to lead these girls into a successful season.”

JOSH GUERUE/For the Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Morrill High School volleyball team. Pictured in the front row (from left to right) are Laura Sherrod, Peyton Gibson, and Shadie Hess. Pictured in the middle row are Bailee Steiner, Stefani Tarin, Jessica Harvey, Kaitlyn Margheim, and Jada West. Pictured in the back row are Lily Martin, Ashton Hoffman, Sadie Cooley, and Shalyn Lackey.

Sept. 1 Sept. 6 Sept. 9 Sept. 15 Sept. 16 Sept. 20 Oct. 1 Oct. 4 Oct. 6 Oct. 11 Oct. 13 Oct. 15 Oct. 18 Oct. 22 Oct. 27

Schedule at Bayard at Arthur County Triangular CRAWFORD at Garden County at Crawford at Hemingford Triangular MORRILL INVITE at Mitchell at Kimball at Hay Springs Triangular MINATARE Panhandle Conference Tournament at Hay Springs GORDON-RUSHVILLE Western Trails Tournament at Bayard POTTER-DIX

CROSS COUNTRY

JOSH GUERUE/For the Star-Herald

Here are the members of this year’s Morrill High School cross country team. Pictured (from left to right) are Christine Humphrey, Andrea Lashley, Katelan Rogers, Andrew Avila, Phillip Soto, and Holden Schleve.

FOOTBALL

08/26/16.......................... @ Garden County 09/2/16................................ @ Creek Valley 09/9/16..........................................Crawford 09/16/16........................................ @ Leyton 09/23/16.....................................Sutherland 10/06/16................................ @ Hemingford 10/14/16................ Dundy County-Stratton 10/20/16.......................... @ Perkins County

CROSS COUNTRY

9/2..........................................Gering Invite 9/9.........................................Kimball Invite 9/16..................................Torrington Invite 9/20..................................Scottsbluff Invite 9/23................................ Gordon-Rushville 9/29.................................................Bayard 10/7....................................... Kimball WTC 10/13............................................... District 10/21.................................State (Kearney)

VOLLEYBALL

09/1....................................................@ Bayard 09/6........................................... Arthur County 09/6.............................................. Creek Valley 09/9.................................................... Crawford 09/15.....................................@ Garden County 09/16.............................................. @ Crawford 09/17.......................................... @ Hemingford 09/20..............................................Hemingford 09/20............................................... Bridgeport 10/4...................................................@ Mitchell 10/6................................................... @ Kimball 10/11..........................Hay Springs & Hyannis 10/13................................................... Minatare 10/18....................................Gordon-Rushville 10/27.................................................Potter-Dix

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Fall Sports Preview Page 26

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Thursday, August 25, 2016

otter-Dix Coyotes VOLLEYBALL

Star-Herald

Here are members of Potter-Dix’s volleyball team. Pictured are (bottom row, from left) Ginny Herboldshiemer, Dawson Sharman, Alexus Rozelle, Trinity Langley, Lanie Thies, Audrey Juelfs, Michaela Rotert; (front row, from left) Brooke Moench, Payge Hoffman, Cc George, Jessica Gingerich, Sierra Wheelock, Hannah Stahl, and Makayla Merz. Not pictured is Erica Bogert.

Nickname: Coyotes Class: D-2 Subdistrict: 11 Last year’s season record: 27-4 Last year’s conference record/placing: 15-1/First Last year’s district record/ placing: 4-0/First Last year’s state tournament: Potter-Dix lost in the first round.

Head coach: Sarah Dvorak (3rd season) Varsity assistant coach:

Brad Hicks Returning starters (4): Alexus Rozelle, sr., 5-11, MH; Dawson Sharman, sr., 5-10, OH; Lanie Thies, sr., 5-10, S; Audrey Juelfs, jr., 5-10, OH Other returning letter winners: Trinity Langley, jr., 6-0, MH; Payge Hoffman, jr., 5-6, RS Top newcomers/transfers: Brooke Moench, so., 5-3, S/OH; CC George, so., 5-5, OH/MH; Ginny Her-

boldshiemer, fr., 5-5, RS/ OH Season outlook: “Potter-Dix has worked hard in the offseason to help prepare for another successful season,” Coach Dvorak said. “We are starting off right where we left off last November. Our team has had a lot of experience with tough competitors in a close game – Conference championship game and the State Tournament. With that ex-

perience we are hoping we handle the pressure and win those close, tough games.

Also, with this experience we are hoping it takes us back to those championship games at Conference and District, which will lead to another state tournament appearance.”

Team strengths: “We have four returning starters and two players (Langley & Hoffman) who have seen the varsity court the past

two years. Potter-Dix has played a lot of volleyball together for the past several years,” Dvorak said.

Team goals: Dvorak said the Coyotes aim to be MAC and district champions and qualify for and place at state.

Last year’s highlights: Potter-Dix won conference and district championships, qualified for state, and posted the most wins in Potter-Dix history.

Schedule

Sept. 8 Potter-Dix Triangular Sept. 17 at Creek Valley Sept. 23 at Minatare Sept. 27 Potter-Dix Triangular Sept. 30 South Platte Oct. 4 Kimball Triangular Oct. 10 Potter-Dix Triangular Oct. 18 Banner County Triangular Oct. 25 Creek Valley Oct. 27 at Morrill

FOOTBALL Nickname: Coyotes Frerichs (4th season) Class: Six-Man Varsity assistant coach: District: 6 Ryan Coffey Last year’s season record: Returning offensive 1-7 starters: 2 Head coach: Dale Returning defensive

starters: 3 Returning starters: Travis Garlach, Sr., OL/DL; Dylan Nielsen, jr., QB/DB; Connor Williams, jr., OL/ DL

Season outlook: “We’re of competition.” excited for the move to sixSchedule man,” Coach Frerichs said.

Aug. 26 at Arthur Coun“We are looking to have ty fun and be competitive as Sept. 2 at Hyannis we adjust to the new level Sept. 9 Banner County

Sept. 16

Sioux County

Sept. 23

at Minatare

Sept. 30

South Platte

Oct. 7 Hay Springs Oct. 14 at Cody-Kilgore

Home games listed in bold

VOLLEYBALL

9/8..........................Tri w/Kimball & Mitchell 9/27........................Tri w/S. Platte & Bayard 9/30 ........................................... South Platte 10/4 ...........................Tri @ Kimball w/Bayard 10/10............... Tri w/ Garden Co. & Wallace 10/18 ..............Tri @ Banner County w/ Leyton 10/27 ..................................................Morrill

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FOOTBALL

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Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

S

Page 27

cottsbluff Bearcats FOOTBALL

TERRY PITKIN/Scottsbluff High School

Here are members of Scottsbluff’s football team.

Nickname: Bearcats Class: B Last year’s season record: 6-4 District: 8 Last year’s district placing: First Last year’s state playoffs: Scottsbluff lost in the first round to Gretna.

Head coach: Joe Benson (10th season) Varsity assistant coaches: Mike Fisher, Derek Deaver, Todd Menghini,

Mark Moran, Ben Treffer, Jud Hall, Jake McLain Offensive starters returning: 5 Defensive starters returning: 5 Returning starters: Braden Lofink, sr., 5-11, 155, DB; Max Mason, sr., 5-6, 160, RB; Kobe Paez, sr., 5-9, 195, TE/LB; Josh Moore, sr., 6-0, 170, DB; Kris Kizzire, sr., 5-8, 190, DT; Isaac DeLos Santos, sr., 5-8, 210, LB; Landon

Walker, sr., 6-8, 235, TE; Genaro Gurrola, sr., 6-1, 270, OL; Isaiah Blanco, 5-11, 200, OL; Robbie Price, sr., 5-9, 150, DB Other returning letter winners: Noah Bruner, QB; Salem Harsh, DE; Hever Morales, DB; Kushan Contreras, DB; Austin Gonzales, DE; Luke Ferguson, L; Elijah Salinas, L; Joe Collett, L; Dalen Stolen, L; Adam Von Lintel, L; Eli DeLos

Santos, K Top newcomers/transfers: Garrett Nelson, DE; Keegan Reifschneider, DB; Graham Robbins, LB; Jordan Hort, L; Chris Busby, RB; Jasiya DeOllos, RB; Perris Magdaleno, DB Season outlook: “We are excited and will need contributions from all classes to be successful,” coach Benson said.

Team strengths: “We will have good team speed

and depth on the lines.

RB, TE, and ILB should be strengths,” Benson said.

Team goals: “Improve throughout the season and play our best football at the end of the year,” Benson said.

Other comments: Last season Mason averaged 200 yards a game. … Isaac DeLos Santos led the team in tackles in 2015.

Former athletes competing in college: Randy

Wentz, Chadron State; Brad Johnston, Austin Clarkson, Shane Smith, Jackson Hinze, Jon Maag Schedule Aug. 26 Hastings Sept. 2 at Holdrege Sept. 9 Lexington Sept. 16 at Aurora Sept. 23 Northwest Sept. 30 at McCook Oct. 7 Gering Oct. 14 at Sidney Oct. 21 Alliance

SOFTBALL

Photo courtesy of Gering Citizen

Here are members of Scottsbluff’s softball team.

Nickname: Bearcats Class: B Last year’s season record: 12-18 Conference: Western (52) Last year’s conference placing: Second District: 6 Last year’s district placing: Fifth Head coach: Michael Gentry (4th season) Varsity assistant coaches: Spencer Lease, Ashlynn Marino, Mikka Salazar Returning starters (6): Tiersa Darley, sr., OF; Alex Salazar, sr., INF; Hailey Franklin, jr., C; Erin Willats, jr., P/OF; Devaney Halley, jr., OF; Kieyerah Twombly, so., INF

Other returning letter winners: Maddy Keller, jr., OF; Rachelle Palser, jr., INF; Jordyn Grasmick, so., P Top newcomers/transfers: Lisbeth Morales, jr., INF; Sam Davis, jr., INF; Halley Schanaman, jr., OF; Teanna Marcias, jr., OF/P; Taylor Klein, fr., INF Season outlook: “Again we have a young team on paper. We lost three great seniors to graduation, and returning starter Hannah McQuistan (moved to Papillion) from last season,” Coach Gentry said.

“The biggest change from last year to this year is the amount of varsity experience out of the team. We

have nine returning players who played in at least half of the total games from a season ago. We have two pitchers who return with quite a bit of innings under their belt.”

Team strengths: “Our defense will be much improved from last year,” Gentry said. “We are more athletic than we have ever been as a team; that is due to the girls’ hard work in the summer conditioning program. We return two pitchers with quality experience. We have a lot more depth at every position than we have ever had in my tenure at Scottsbluff.

We can go 2-3 deep at many positions this season.”

Team goals: “We have set a team goal to stay mentally tough all season long,” Gentry said. “We have had a tendency to not believe in ourselves when things got tough last season. With more experience and a year older we have a lot more confidence in our abilities and our team.”

Other notes: Last season Darley batted .360, scored 29 runs, and had 20 RBIs. Salazar batted .310 and had a .463 OBP. Franklin hit .393 with 25 RBIs and three home runs. Willats had a .292 batting average and a 4.88 ERA with 63 strikeouts. Halley batted .294, scored 21 runs, and had a .473 OBP. Twombly batted .182 and scored 15 runs

as a freshman. … Keller appeared in 17 games in 2015. Palser appeared in 22 games in 2015 and made a position change to third base. Grasmick pitched in 16 games last year and had a 7.02 ERA. … Morales missed last season due to a leg injury.

Last year’s highlights: “After losing six seniors from the 2014 season we were very inexperienced and a green team. We had tremendous ups and downs throughout, but the one highlight would have to be coming back to beat Chadron 12-8 after facing an 8-0 deficit,” Gentry said.

Former athletes competing in college: Zoe Holscher, tennis at North-

western College in Iowa; Chloe Reifschneider, soccer at WNCC Schedule Aug. 19 at Lexington Aug. 20 Lexington Invite Aug. 22 Sterling Aug. 25 Gering Aug. 30 Chadron Sept. 6 Alliance Sept. 9-10 Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 13 at Holyoke Sept. 15 at Gering Sept. 17 North Platte Classic Sept. 20 at Alliance Sept. 22 Cozad Sept. 24 Chase County Sept. 27 at Chadron Oct. 1 GNAC at McCook

Fall Sports Preview Page 28

Thursday, August 25, 2016

CROSS COUNTRY GIRLS Nickname: Bearcats Class: B Conferences: Western and GNAC Last year’s Western Conference placing: Did enter a varsity team; placed second in JV Last year’s GNAC placing: First District: 4 Last year’s district meet placing: First Last year’s state meet placing: Second Head coach: Jim Barker (5th season as girls head coach) Varsity assistant coaches: Aaron Carrizales, Erin Shaul Returning state qualifiers: Whitney Riesen, sr.; Kaylee Bentley, jr.; Morgan Mickey, so.; Tayler Gipe, sr.; Krista Holzworth, sr.

Other returnees: Mana Garcia, jr.; Karina Pizano, so.; Breana Villagrana, jr.; Sarah Woodward, sr.

Newcomers: Hannah Anderson, so.; Emily Carpenter, fr.; Ashlee Carrillo, jr.; Yara Garcia, fr.; Kierra Schmidt, jr.; Keyera Smith, fr.

Season outlook: “Extremely optimistic…have 15 girls out…a great summer of preparation,” Coach Barker said.

Team strengths: “Work ethic, depth, leadership, schedule, summer running, pride, tradition,” Barker said.

Team goals: “To qualify as a team for state and compete for a state championship,” Barker said.

Notes: Last season, Riesen placed third at state and first at districts and GNAC. Bentley was 11th at state, third at districts, and seventh at GNAC. Mickey was 54th at state, sixth at districts, and 11th at GNAC. Gipe was 48th at state, 13th at districts, and 18th at GNAC. Holzworth was 73rd at state, 17th at districts, and 25th at GNAC Last year’s season highlights: Placing second at the state meet, and winning the Gering, UNK, GNAC, and district meets.

Former athletes competing in college: Aubree Worden, University of Arkansas; Shayleigh James, UNK Schedule Sept. 2 Gering Invite Sept. 9 Liberty Bell Invite at Littleton, Colo.

Sept. 10 Chadron Invite Sept. 17 Alliance Invite Sept. 20 Panhandle Classic in Scottsbluff

Kendall, jr.; Joe Maag, so.; Chase Osland, jr.; Nick Perrin, so.; Travis Zeiler, sr.

Newcomers: Uriah Mata, jr.; Kamden McGrew, fr.; Jobee O’Bannon, fr.; Kennedy Ronne, fr.; Tucker Straub, fr.

Season outlook: “Extremely optimistic…have 15 boys out…a great summer of preparation,” Coach Barker said.

Team strengths: “Work ethic, depth, leadership, schedule, summer running, pride, tradition,” Barker said.

Team goals: “To qualify as

a team for state and compete for a state championship,” Barker said.

Notes: Last season, Josh Hergenreder was third at state, second at districts, and third at GNAC; Noah Hergenreder was 19th at state, fifth at districts, and ninth at GNAC; Jaramillo was 70th at state and fourth at districts and GNAC; Simmons was 50th at state, 23rd at districts, and 15th at GNAC; and Nikont was 87th at state, 41st at districts, and 49th at GNAC. Last year’s season highlights: Winning the GNAC and district meets.

Former athletes competing in college: Tayler James and Shane Burkey, UNK; Collin Maag, Southwest Iowa Community College Schedule Sept. 2 Gering Invite Sept. 9 Liberty Bell Invite at Littleton, Colo.

Sept. 10 Chadron Invite Sept. 17 Alliance Invite Sept. 20 Panhandle Classic in Scottsbluff Sept. 26 UNK Invite at Kearney Oct. 1 Western Conference Meet at Chadron Oct. 7 GNAC Meet at Lexington Oct. 13 Districts at Ogallala Oct. 21 State at Kearney

rience. The girls are much Invite improved from last year,” Aug. 19 Cheyenne East Klein said.

Invite Team goals: “Play our Aug. 23 Sidney Invite best golf at the end of the Aug. 25 Bayard Invite year,” Klein said.

Aug. 29 Scottsbluff Invite Last year’s highlight: PlacSept. 6 Chadron Invite ing second at state.

Sept. 13 Gering Invite Schedule Sept. 15 Casper Kelly Aug. 18 Cheyenne East Walsh Invite

Sept. 16 Casper Kelly Walsh Invite Sept. 19 Ogallala Invite Sept. 24 Alliance Invite Sept. 30 GNAC Tourney Oct. 3 Districts Oct. 10-11 State

Courtesy photo

Here are members of Scottsbluff’s cross country teams.

Sept. 26 UNK Invite at Kearney Oct. 1 Western Conference Meet at Chadron Oct. 7 GNAC Meet at Lexington Oct. 13 Districts at Ogallala Oct. 21 State at Kearney BOYS Nickname: Bearcats Class: B Conferences: Western and GNAC Last year’s Western Conference placing: Did enter a varsity team; placed second in JV

Last year’s GNAC placing: First District: 4 Last year’s district meet placing: First Last year’s state meet placing: Sixth Head coach: Jim Barker (29th season) Varsity assistant coaches: Aaron Carrizales, Erin Shaul Returning state qualifiers: Josh Hergenreder, sr.; Noah Hergenreder, sr.; Jesse Jaramillo, jr.; Robby Simmons, jr.; Blake Nikont, sr.

Other returnees: Xap

GIRLS GOLF Nickname: Bearcats Class: B Conferences: Western, GNAC Last year’s conference placing: First in Western; 3rd in GNAC District: 1 Last year’s district placing: First

Last year’s state placing: Second Head coach: Mike Klein (13th season) Varsity assistant coaches: Mariah Busch Returning starters: Shelby Poynter, jr.; Rachel Hancock, Sr.; Jordyn Hoxworth, Sr.; D.J. Bokelman, jr.

Other returning letter winners: Ashlynn Haun, jr.; Kathryn Phillips, so.; Sarah Lewis, so.

Top newcomers/transfers: D.J. Bokelman, jr.

Season outlook: “We have a chance to be competitive at state,” Coach Klein said.

Team strengths: “Expe-

wncc.edu

ALL OUT. ALL GAME. ALL SEASON. Good luck to all of our local athletes on your upcoming year! connect with us

Photo courtesy of Gering Citizen

Here are members of Scottsbluff’s girls golf team.

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BOYS TENNIS Nickname: Bearcats Class: B Last year’s dual record: 6-1-1 Conference: GNAC Last year’s conference placing: Second Last year’s state tournament: The No. 1 doubles team made it to the second round.

Head coach: Madeline Johnson (3rd season) Varsity assistant coach: Cassie Behnke Returning starters: Soren Mercer-Smith, sr.; Brady Sindt, sr.; Sam McCaslin, jr.; Conner Muhr, jr.

Other returning letter winners: Gunnar Buchhammer, sr.; Mason Ramig, jr.

Season outlook: “I think we will have another great year,” coach Johnson said.

“We have some players that will be in different positions this year. I have to look at the team as a whole and who will be able to step it up for the team. I see us competing at every invite and to be one of the top teams in the area.”

Team strengths: “This year our team consists of boys that have played for at least a year,” Johnson said.

“We were able to jump right into practice and challenge matches this year. We will be able to focus more on the strategy part of the game, rather than taking the time to teach the basics.”

Team goals: “I would like

to place at GNAC again and to have all of the teams seeded at state,” Johnson said.

Here’s what Johnson said about individual players: Mercer-Smith: “Soren should finish strong again this year at one singles. He has to improve mentally on the court during matches because he has the physical ability.” Last year he finished 25-12 at No. 1 singles and placed second at GNAC. Sindt: “Brady and Owen were great partners last year. Brady is one of the top players on the team and will be successful with wherever he ends up on the team this season.” Last year Sindt finished 30-6 at No. 1 doubles and placed second at GNAC. McCaslin: “This will be Sam’s second season. He has really grown as a player, and I am excited to see where he will end up on the team this year.” McCaslin last year posted a 19-18 record.

Muhr: “It will be interesting to see where Conner ends up in the team lineup.

He might have a different position this year on the team based on our makeup.” Muhr went 22-13 last year.

Buchhammer: “Gunnar should be a strong addition to varsity this year.”

Ramig: “Mason and Gunnar had a strong part-

Star-Herald

Here are members of the Scottsbluff boys tennis team. Pictured are (top row, from left) Sam McCaslin, Gunnar Buchhammer, Mason Ramig, Conner Muhr; (bottom row) Noah Hafner, Scott Herman, Brady Sindt, Soren Mercer-Smith, and Thomas Madden.

nership last year at three doubles. However, he could play anywhere because he is a competitor.”

Last year’s highlights: “We were able to get second at GNAC with Kearney, a Class A school getting first,” Johnson said. “I was very proud of the boys

that day. They all showed Sept. 3 Scottsbluff Invite up and it was a great lead Sept. 6 at Torrington into state where we had Sept. 9 at North Platte three out of the four teams Sept. 10 North Platte seeded.”

Invite Schedule Sept. 16 Lexington Aug. 25 Triangular Invite Aug. 26 at Lexington Sept. 20 at Cheyenne Aug. 27 McCook Invite Sept. 2 Gillette South dual

Sept. 24 Hastings Invite Sept. 27 Scottsbluff Triangular Oct. 1 GNAC at Hastings Oct. 4 Ogallala Triangular Oct. 13-14 State at Lincoln

VOLLEYBALL

Photo courtesy of SHS

Here are members of Scottsbluff’s volleyball team.

Nickname: Bearcats Class: B Last year’s season record: 11-22 Conference: Western Last year’s conference record: 6-12 District: 6 Last year’s district tournament: Lost in the first round to Sidney Head coach: Alexia Lanka (1st season) Varsity assistant coaches: Sarah McGhehey, Morgan

Greene Team goals: “To have a Returning starters (4): Sally winning record and compete Welsh, sr., S; Alli Leever, sr., L; at conference and districts,” Avery Krantz, sr., RS; Taylor Lanka said.

Schedule Noe, jr., OH/MH Sept. 1 Alliance Returning letter winners: Sept. 2-3 Gillette Inv. Sept. 8 at Chey. Central Grace Heggem, jr., OH; LonSept. 13 Gering don Harris, jr., MH Sept. 15 at Torrington Sept. 20 Chey. So. Season outlook: “We have Sept. 22 at Chadron a lot of potential, but it will be Sept. 27 at Sidney Sept. 30-Oct. 1 Twin Cities Inv. a long road of hard work to Oct. 6 Chadron get to where we want to be,” Oct. 8 Western Conf. Tourney Oct. 13 at Gering Coach Lanka said.

Oct. 18 at Alliance Team strengths: “Senior Oct. 22 Alliance Invite leadership,” Lanka said.

Oct. 29 GNAC at McCook

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Fall Sports Preview Page 30

Thursday, August 25, 2016

S

idney Red Raiders

Nickname: Red Raiders Class: B Last year’s season record: 5-5 Last year’s state playoffs: Sidney lost to Elkhorn South in the first round Conference: Western Last year’s conference record/placing: 1-2/Third District: 8 Last year’s district record/placing: 1-2/Third Head coach: Chris Koozer (2nd season) Varsity assistant coaches: Brant Douglas, Curtis Hofrock, Colton Ehler, Brandon Ross Returning offensive starters: 5 Returning defensive starters: 6 Returning starters: Der-

FOOTBALL ek Robb, jr., 5-9, 165, RB/ LB; Alex Linneman, sr., 6-0, 185, WR/DB; Coby Haas, jr., 6-0, 180, WR/DB; Arik Doty, so., 5-11, 185, QB/LB; Jon Smith, jr., 5-7, 155, QB/DB; Isiah Votruba, sr., 5-7, 175, RB/LB; Matthias Beyer, so., 5-9, 265, OL/DL; Kade Price, jr., 6-0, 215, OL/DL; Tyler Bergstrom, jr., 6-4, 205, OL/DL Other returning letter winners: Josh Schaub, jr., 6-0, 155, WR/DB; Grant Haussmann, jr., 6-2, 165, TE/LB; Brett Jaggers, jr., 5-9, 145, WR/LB; Cade Lewis, so., 5-9, 180, RB/LB Season outlook: “Young team looking to prove itself versus a tough schedule,” Coach Koozer said.

Team strengths: Team

speed and experience at the skill positions, Koozer said.

Team goals: “Compete in every game [and] play as a team,” Koozer said.

Last year’s highlight: Qualifying for the state playoffs, Koozer said.

Former athletes competing in college: Dalton Schilz, Peru State; Cody Hofrock, Concordia; Tanner Wintholz, Chadron State Schedule Aug. 26 Lexington Sept. 2 at Aurora Sept. 9 McCook Sept. 16 Hastings Sept. 23 at Holdrege Sept. 30 York Oct. 7 at Alliance Oct. 14 Scottsbluff Here are members of Sidney’s football team.

Oct. 21 at Gering

Photo courtesy of Sidney High School

GIRLS GOLF

Photo courtesy of Sidney High School

Here are members of Sidney’s girls golf team.

Nickname: Red Raiders Class: B Conference: Western Last year’s conference placing: Second District: 4 Last year’s district placing: Second Last year’s state tournament placing: Third Head coach: Chuck Christensen (1st season) Varsity assistant coach: Jeff Yahn Returning starters: Emma Alexander, jr.; Paige Langley, jr.

Top newcomers/transfers: Janay Brauer, so.; Jordan Cook, jr.; Tiara Ginther, so.

Note: Last season Alexander placed 13th at state.

Schedule Aug. 23 Sidney Invite Aug. 29 Scottsbluff Invite Aug. 30 Kimball Invite Sept. 2 North Platte Invite Sept. 6 Chadron Invite Sept. 8 Mitchell Invite Sept. 13 Gering Invite Sept. 19 Ogallala Invite Sept. 24 Alliance Invite Sept. 28 Columbus Invite Oct. 3 Districts at Sidney

Home Games Are Italicized.

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Football Girls Golf 08/26 .............................................Lexington 08/23 ........................... Hillside Golf Course 09/02 .............................................. @ Aurora 09/09 ................................................ McCook 09/16 ...............................................Hastings 09/22 ...........................................@ Holdrege 09/30 ..................................................@ York 10/07 .............................................@ Alliance 10/14 ........................................... Scottsbluff 10/21 .............................................. @ Gering

Cross Country 09/02 .............................................. @ Gering 09/09 .............................................@ Littleton 09/10 ........................................... @ Chadron 09/15 ............................................ @ McCook 09/17 .............................................@ Alliance 09/22 ............................................ @ Ogallala 09/26 ............................................@ Kearney 10/01 ........................................... @ Chadron 10/06 ...................................... @ Hillside GC 10/13 .................................... Districts @ TBA 10/21 .................................. State @ Kearney

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08/29 ........................................ @ Scottsbluff 08/30 ............................................. @ Kimball 09/02 ...................................... @ North Platte 09/06 ........................................... @ Chadron 09/08 ............................................. @ Mitchell 09/13 ........................................ @ Scottsbluff 09/19 ............................................ @ Ogallala 09/24 .............................................@ Alliance 09/28 ......................................... @ Columbus 10/06-10/04 .......................... Districts @ TBA 10/10-10/11 ..................... State @ Columbus

Volleyball

09/01 ...........................Triangular @ Ogallala 09/06 ............................................. @ Mitchell 09/10 ..................................... @ Cozad Invite 09/13 ............................ Triagular @ Chadron 09/15 .............................................@ Alliance 09/20 ......................................Chase County 09/22 ............................. Triangular @ Gering 09/24 .....................................@ Aurora Invite 09/27 ........................................... Scottsbluff 09/30-10/01 ....................@ Twin Cities Invite 10/06 ................................................ Alliance 10/08 ............................... WTC @ Scottsbluff 10/11 ........................................... @ Chadron 10/18 .................................................. Gering 10/22 .............................. @ Alliance Dig Pink 10/25 ............................................. @ Kimball

Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

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VOLLEYBALL Nickname: Bearcats Class: B Head coach: Sarah Wilson (6th season) Assistant coaches: Sierra Ostdiek, Dan Dorwart Conference: Western Last year’s season record: 17-16 Last year’s district placing: First Returning starters: Annalise Lecher, sr., MB, 5-10; Maddi Porter, sr., OH, 5-9; Kelsey Knight, sr., OH, 5-8; Alex Wamsley, sr., RS, 5-10; Abbey Mills, sr., L, 5-6; Natalie Radcliffe, jr., S, 5-6; Payton Jung, so., MB, 5-10 Other contributors: Katelyn Sylvester, so., S, 5-8; Mattie Johnson, fr., RS/MB, 5-10 Season outlook: “The Sidney Lady Raiders are definitely excited about this upcoming season!” Coach Wilson said. “The squad is loaded with veteran seniors and there is a plethora of underclassmen and juniors just chomping at the bit for their chance to contribute.

This group of ladies understands the game and is committed to putting in the work and training to develop their volleyball skills and play at their highest level. We are blessed with athleticism and quickness.

Those traits combined with a passion and focus have us setting our goals high. We know the Western Conference will be fielding multiple quality teams this fall, and we look forward to the competition. As usual, our

primary emphasis is on developing our fundamental skills and learning to read the court and opponents so we can make the most effective choices during play.

The bench goes deep with strong talent emerging from the younger ranks.

We have our work cut out for us, but we are excited to see what we can accomplish.”

Players to watch (with Wilson’s comments): ** Payton Jung (sophomore) – A year’s experience at the varsity level has given Payton the confidence she needs to make a big impact on the court this season.

She is very athletic and will be strong at the net in both attacks and blocking. She is fundamentally sound, can hold her own defensively, and is a threat as a server.

Payton has a humble spirit that helps her get along and play well with all her teammates.

2015 stats: 161 pts 36 ace serves 295 kills 56 ace blocks 90 digs ** Annalise Lecher (senior) – Annalise will compliment Payton as part of our duo of middle hitters/ blockers. She has started varsity since her freshman year and that experience will manifest itself in this being her strongest season to date. She is smart and savvy about the game and will choose from her arsenal of hits to terminate the ball. Last year she was our leading blocker. Annalise’s

Photo courtesy of Sidney High School

Here are members of Sidney’s volleyball team.

leadership, positive spirit, and team mentality will be a huge asset to our program this season.

2015 stats: 234 kills 84 ace blocks 119 digs ** Maddi Porter (senior) – Maddi has also started varsity since her freshman year and that seasoning will be key to our success this year. Maddi is the “playmaker” when we need to get the offense going. She is a confident and assertive player. She has an effective swing at the net, solid block, and is one of our leading defensive passers. Her steady presence reflects on her teammates.

Maddi will step up and make things happen when

it’s needed.

2015 stats: 168 pts 26 ace serves 224 kills 23 ace blocks 331 digs ** Kelsey Knight (senior) – Kelsey is a very quick and athletic player. She can swing hard and she is one of our strongest defensive diggers. Kelsey shows promise of rising to the challenge and making this her strongest season yet.

2015 stats: 116 pts 26 ace serves 161 kills 34 ace blocks 389 digs ** Natalie Radcliffe (junior) – Natalie suffered an injury early in the season last year that required time before she could get back into the starting lineup. But her athleticism looks to be

an asset to our team this fall. She has a great vertical and quick swing that help her place successful attacks.

She has an aggressive and consistent serve and she is a strong defensive digger.

This year, Natalie will most likely fill the shoes left by our sole starting senior who graduated as Natalie will step into the position of setter.

2015 stats: 80 pts 12 ace serves 112 digs ** Alex Wamsley (senior) – At 5’ 10”, Alex puts up a nice right side for us.

She effectively blocks outside attacks and can swing hard and place down her own strong hits. And she has the hands and mind-

set to step in as a backup setter when needed. Alex has been working hard in the off-season and is determined to be a positive contributor this fall.

2015 stats: 84 kills 97 assists 37 ace blocks 89 digs ** Mattie Johnson (freshman) – Mattie is serious about volleyball and brings us a strong skillset as an incoming freshman. Her role in our varsity season is yet to unfold, but she is definitely a name with which to become familiar!

Schedule Sept. 1 Oga l l a l a Triangular Sept. 6 at Mitchell Sept. 10 Cozad Invite Sept. 13 Chadron Triangular Sept. 15 at Alliance Sept. 20 Chase County Sept. 22 Gering Triangular Sept. 24 Aurora Invite Sept. 27 Scottsbluff Sept. 30-Oct. 1 Twin Cities Invite Oct. 6 Alliance Oct. 8 Western Conference Tourney at Scottsbluff Oct. 11 at Chadron Oct. 18 Gering Oct. 22 A l l i anc e Dig Pink Invite Oct. 25 at Kimball

CROSS COUNTRY GIRLS Nickname: Red Raiders Class: B Conference: Western Last year’s conference placing: Third District: 6 Last year’s district placing: Third in Class C Last year’s state placing: Third in Class C Head coach: Ryan Plummer (2nd season) Varsity assistant coaches: Donna Wiedeburg, Kyle Larson, Danica Olsen Returning state qualifiers: Charlie Brockhaus, jr.

Season outlook: “We are a young and upcoming team with much potential,” Coach Plummer said. “We need to work hard this year to compete in Class B.” Team strengths: “Hard working, dedicated individuals,” Plummer said.

Team goals: “Improve each meet,” Plummer said.

Last year’s highlights: “Both boys and girls teams making it to the state meet,” Plummer said.

Note: Last season Brockhaus placed 15th at conference, 25th at districts, and 59th at state. Plummer describes Brockhaus has a “great leader.”

Former athletes competing in college: Preslie Allen, UNK; Genessa Schilz, CSC; Erin Lindeman, Concordia Schedule Sept. 2 Gering Invite Sept. 9 Liberty Bell Invite in Littleton, Colo.

Sept. 10 Chadron Invite Sept. 15 McCook Invite Sept. 17 Alliance Invite Sept. 22 Ogallala Invite Sept. 26 UNK Invite Oct. 1 Chadron Invite Oct. 6 Sidney Invite Oct. 13 Districts Oct. 21 State in Kearney BOYS Nickname: Red Raiders

Class: B Conference: Western Last year’s conference placing: Fourth District: 6 Last year’s district placing: Second in Class C Last year’s state placing: Seventh in Class C Head coach: Ryan Plummer (2nd season) Varsity assistant coaches: Donna Wiedeburg, Kyle Larson, Danica Olsen Returning state qualifiers: Ryan Aurich, Sr.; Will Castner, Sr.; Collin Brauer, so.; Mitch Porter, jr.

Season outlook: “We return some great runners and hope to be competitive in Class B,” Plummer said.

Team strengths: “Working together, and great team leadership from our older runners,” Plummer said.

Team goals: “To improve Here are members of Sidney’s boys cross country team. from meet to meet,” Plummer said.

Last year’s highlights: “Making it to state, both boys and girls,” Plummer said.

Note: Last season Aurich placed 13th at conference, fifth at districts, and 21st at state; Castner was 11th at conference, 15th at districts, and 41st at state; Brauer was 12th at conference, 20th at districts, and 51st at state; and Porter was eighth at conference, fourth at districts, and 26th at state.

Schedule Sept. 2 Gering Invite Sept. 9 Liberty Bell Invite in Littleton, Colo.

Sept. 10 Chadron Invite Sept. 15 McCook Invite Sept. 17 Alliance Invite Sept. 22 Ogallala Invite Sept. 26 UNK Invite Oct. 1 Chadron Invite Oct. 6 Sidney Invite Oct. 13 Districts Oct. 21 State in Kearney Here are members of Sidney’s girls cross country team.

Photo courtesy of Sidney High School

Photo courtesy of Sidney High School

Fall Sports Preview Page 32

S

Thursday, August 25, 2016

outheast Cyclones FOOTBALL

TORRINGTON TELEGRAM

Here are the members of this year’s Southeast High School football team.

Nickname: Cyclones Head coach: Mark BulClass: Wyoming 1A lington (17th year) Conference: SEWAC Returning starters: Last year’s record: 6-5, ad- Chance Werner, 5-9, 160, vanced to state semifinals senior, FB/LB; Jasper Heg-

gen, 6-0, 220, senior, OL/ DL; Jacob Cushman, 5-8, 160, senior, RB/CB; Jacob Schmitt, 6-4, 210, senior, DE/TE; Dalton Keller, 5-8,

165, senior, OL/LB; Connor Humphrey, 5-11, 160, senior, SE/DB; Porter Ross, 6-2, 185, senior, OL/DE; Quinton Steinbeck, 5-11,

160, senior, DB/SE; Brady Fullmer, 6-2, 180, junior, QB/S; Kaden Malm, 5-10, 165, junior, RB/S; Chase Lovercheck, 6-1, 165, junior,

RB/DB; Hunter Woodruff, 6-1, 280, junior, OL/DL; Tanner Hort, 6-0, 160, junior, C/LB; Conner Smith, 5-7, 240, junior, OL/DL

VOLLEYBALL Nickname: Cyclones Class: Wyoming 2A Conference: SEWAC Last year’s record: 19-11 Head coach: Roxanne Jolovich (Eighth year) Season outlook: “This season we have more girls with varsity experience coming back than we did last season. This will give our team more confidence in themselves as well as in their teammates,” Coach Jolovich said. “We did lose both of our middle hitters and therefore we will need some girls to step up and accept that position.

A strength that our team will have this season is our ability to work hard in any situation.”

Returning starters: (3) Emily Buchanan, 5-7, senior, libero; Madison Bates, 5-7, senior, setter; Hailey Anderson, 5-9, sophomore, outside hitter Returning letter winners: Kenna Noble, 5-9, senior,

Courtesy photo

Here are the members of this year’s Southeast High School volleyball team.

middle hitter/outside hitter; Ellie Schmidt, 5-8, sophomore, outside hitter; Kassidy McClun, 5-6, junior, setter/defensive specialist

Schedule Sept. 9-10 at Big Horn Aug. 26-27 at Doug- Sept. 16 at Pine Bluffs las Sept. 17 at Lusk Sept. 1 C H E Y E N N E Sept. 20 at Burns CENTRAL Sept. 23 L I N G L E - F T .

LARAMIE Sept. 27 MITCHELL Sept. 29 at Glenrock Oct. 1 LUSK Oct. 7 PINE BLUFFS

Oct. 14 at Lusk Oct. 15 at Glenrock Oct. 20 at Lingle-Ft. Laramie Oct. 21 BURNS

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VOLLEYBALL SCHEDULE 08/26-08/27 ................ @ Douglas 09/01 ........... Cheyenne Central 09/09-09/10 .............. @ Big Horn 09/16....................... @ Pine Bluffs 09/17.................................. @ Lusk 09/20............................... @ Burns 09/23 .............................. Lingle 09/27 ........................... Mitchell 09/29.......................... @ Glenrock 10/01 ................................. Lusk 10/07 ...................... Pine Bluffs 10/14.................................. @ Lusk 10/15.......................... @ Glenrock

10/20............................... @ Lingle 10/21 .............................. Burns 10/28-10/29 .......................... TBD 11/03-11/05 .......................... State VARISTY FOOTBALL 09/02................................@ Bayard 09/09 ........................... Shoshoni 09/16............................. @ Saratoga 09/23 .................... Tongue River 09/30.................................@ Upton 10/07 ........................ Pine Bluffs 10/14....................................@ Lusk 10/21 ...............................Wright

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Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

T

Page 33

orrington Trailblazers FOOTBALL

Photo courtesy of the Torrington Telegram

Here are members of Torrington’s football team.

Nickname: Trailblazers Class: 3A Head coach: Mark Lenhardt (5th season) Last year’s season record: 9-1 Last year’s conference placing: First in EWAC Last year’s state playoffs: Torrington reached the semifinals Returning offensive starters: 5 Returning defensive starters: 4 Returning starters: Logan Harris, 6-3, 280, sr., OL/DL; Nathan Stitt, 5-9, 155, jr., WR/DB; Jake Wamboldt, 6-0, 260, jr., OL/DL; Bo Moorehouse, 5-10, 160, jr., WR/RB/ DB; Ryan Johnson, 6-1, 185, jr., TE/OLB Other returning letter winners and newcomers expected to contribute: Lane Johnson, 6-0, 230,

sr., OL/DL; Tristan Demott, 5-10, 165, sr., DB/ RB; Aaron Loya, 6-2, 250, sr., OL/DL; Jared Spencer, 5-8, 145, sr., LB; Trey Rodriguez, 5-5, 130, sr., DB; Brandon Flores, 5-10, 220, sr., OL/DL; Breyden Bivens, 6-1, 180, jr., QB; Aaron Borger, 6-0, 165, jr., OLB; Matthew Garcia, 5-7, 140, jr., LB; Alex Wright, 5-10, 145, jr., WR/DB; Bryan Lemmon, 5-11, 170, so., RB/LB; Josh Posten, 5-7, 155, so., WR/DB; Scott Woodruff, 5-11, 235, so., OL/DL; Dylan Waller, 5-11, 175, so., TE/OLB; Cade Schwartzkopf, 5-10, 160, so., RB/ LB; Bryan Lemmon, 5-8, 140, so., WR/DB; Brett Posten, 5-7, 140, so., TE/DL; Josh Kingsley, 5-11, 165, so., OLB; Jakob Brott, 5-10, 195, so.,

OL/DL; Quentin Meyer, 5-6, 130, so., FB/LB; Brandon Bennick, 5-8, 185, so., OL/DL; Braden Meecham, 5-9, 160, so., OL/LB; Jesse Lay, 5-11, 160, so., OL/DL; Chance Newman, 5-10, 160, so., OL/DL; Austin Fox, 5-9, 155, so., OL/DL; Austin Stoeger, 5-10, 240, so., OL/DL. Season outlook: “Losing 10 seniors is most definitely going to impact your program right off the bat, but I think that we have some very capable players coming back,” Coach Lenhardt said. “Offensively, we will be a work in progress early in the season as we break in a new quarterback, running backs, tight end, and three offensive linemen.

Our commitment to our

summer program will be vital to our success.

We need to bulk up at linebacker and get some weight on our younger players. They are a promising young bunch but they are going to have to grow up in a hurry for us this season. Our senior class is very thin, but we do return one of the best, if not the best, interior lineman in the state of Wyoming in Logan Harris. He has had a knack for making big plays at big times. We will rely on him to lead our team and help bring the young players along.

I still really like the size of our offensive line and bring back versatile players like Nathan Stitt and Bo Moorehouse that should give our young quarterback Breyden

CROSS COUNTRY 08/26 09/02 09/09 09/16 09/29 10/01 10/07 10/14 10/22

@ Newcastle @ Gering @ Kimball Cottonwood Golf Course @ Bayard @ Wheatland @ Cheyenne East @ Douglas @ Sheridan

Bivens some weapons to use. We will as always rely on our running game to set up play action and try to control the tempo of the game.

We have around 350-370 students so playing at a fastbreak pace does not suit our players well. We want to control the clock and give our defense a chance to make the other team one dimensional if we can build a lead.”

Notes: Torrington has qualified for the state playoffs three straight years. Last fall Torrington had back-toback winning seasons for the first time since 199495. Also, Torrington won its first conference championship since 1994 and had its first undefeated regular season since 1990. … Last season

Harris was named the EWAC Defensive Player of the Year, earned a spot on the Casper Star-Tribune’s Super 25, and was all-state. … Stitt and Wamboldt both earned all-conference honors last year, while Moorehouse and Johnson were both tabbed all-conference honorable mention.

Schedule Aug. 27 0 week scrimmage at Glenrock Sept. 2 at Wheatland Sept. 9 Worland Sept. 16 Green River Sept. 23 at Riverton Sept. 30 Douglas Oct. 7 at Lander Oct. 14 at Buffalo Oct. 21 Rawlins Oct. 28 First round of playoffs Nov. 4 State semifinals Nov. 11 State championship game at Laramie

TORRINGTON TRAIL BLAZERS TENNIS Boys Varsity 08/20 Jamboree @ Kelly Walsh 08/27 @ Laramie 08/30 Home Match 09/03 @ Scottsbluff 09/06 Scottsbluff 09/08 @ Alliance 09/10 Green River @ Laramie 09/12 Cheyenne 09/20 @ Gering

08/20 08/25 08/27 08/30 09/10 09/12

Girls Varsity

Coed Varsity 09/23 & 09/24 09/30-10/01

Jamboree @ Kelly Walsh Natrona County @ Kelly Walsh @ Laramie Home Match Green River @ Laramie Cheyenne Regional Tennis @ Cheyenne State Tennis @ Gillette

FOOTBALL 09/02 09/09 09/16 09/23 10/07 10/14 10/21 10/28 11/04 11/11 GOLF 08/25 $ 08/26 09/01 & 09/02 09/08 & 09/09 09/16 & 09/17 09/23 & 09/24

@ Wheatland HS Worland Green River @ Riverton @ Lander @ Buffalo Rawlins 1st Round Playoffs @ TBA State Semi-Finals @ TBA State Championship @ Laramie @ Wheatland @ Rawlins Cottonwood Golf Course @ Buffalo @ Powell

VOLLEYBALL 08/26 & 08/27 09/01 09/03 09/09 & 09/10 09/15 09/16 & 09/17 09/22 09/24 09/29 09/30 10/01 10/07 10/08 10/14 10/15 10/21 10/28 & 10/29 11/03 - 11/05

Douglas Invite @ Wheatland Riverland @ Rawlins Scottsbluff @ Thermopolis Glenrock Buffalo Newcastle Douglas @ Rawlins Worland Thermopolis @ Douglas @ Newcastle Wheatland Regional Volleyball @ Rawlins State @ Casper

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Fall Sports Preview Page 34

Thursday, August 25, 2016

TENNIS BOYS Nickname: Trailblazers Head coach: Mary Perkins Last year’s state tournament placing: 10th Last year’s conference placing: Third Returning letter winners (5): Tyler Ring, Sr.; Ethan Creagar, jr.; Clay Peterson, jr.; Kelly Peterson, jr.; Chase Bergeson, Sr. Season outlook: “Having a strong number one and number two singles and number one doubles will help with team points,” Coach Perkins said. “We are one player short of having enough depth to get the team points needed to compete for a top finish. This group of players will make each other better. One never knows what the competition will bring. I hope we are ready. We are still in the process of challenging for the doubles positions.”

Top athletes: “Tyler Ring is a gamer,” Perkins said. “He is smart, athletic, and loves to compete.

My hope is he gets everything he has dreamed of his senior year. Ethan fin-

Photo courtesy of Torrington Telegram

Here are members of the Torrington tennis team. Pictured are (front row, from left) Richelle Fitzsimmons, Aubrey Powell, Mia Saucedo, Clay Peterson, Emily Zavorka, Jade Plamer-Miller, Abbi Mitchell, Daly McGuire, Kaden Wunibald, Mason Brummell, Levi Wickham; (back row) Emi Glass, Shelby Luttrell, Sydney Hill, Kelly Peterson, Chase Bergeson, Ethan Creagar, Tyler Ring, Jaysen Stitt, Robert Cates, Koby Ringle, JJ Merrick, and Joseph Randalph. Not pictured: Mason Weiss, Brian Fenn, and Tristen Ritchers.

ished 2015 with a strong state finish. His ability to neutralize his opponent is fun to watch. He has a variety of shots that continue to amaze. Chase Bergeson has put the time in during the summer to lift his game.

He is a real asset to our doubles play. The Peterson brothers will surprise teams. They have been on the court, improving their game since last October.

The development in their game is exceptional. They

are a team to watch.”

Team goals: “Our boys and girls team has a lot of heart,” Perkins said.

“They push each other to be better. Our goal is to play every match with a passion for the game and respect for our opponent. We will celebrate the small accomplishments as well as the big wins.”

Notes: Last season Ring posted a 19-3 record at No. 1 singles. His career record is 39-13. He was

the South Region champion, was named all-conference, and was fifth at state. ... Creagar went 14-6 at No. 2 singles last year, placed third at regionals, and was fourth at state. ... The Peterson brothers played No. 3 doubles last year. Bergeson played No. 1 doubles last year.

Last year’s highlights: “Boys third in the South Conference,” Perkins said.

“Tyler’s South Conference championship and Panhandle Player of the Year Ethan’s fourth-place state finish and our girls, who play in the fall, number one doubles Sydney Hill and Abigail Mitchell has a second-place conference finish and third-place state finish and all-conference and all-state players.”

Aug. 20 at Casper Kelly Walsh Jamboree Aug. 25 at Kelly Walsh and Natrona County Aug. 27 at Laramie Aug. 30 Rawlins, Cheyenne South Sept. 3 Scottsbluff Tourney Sept. 6 Scottsbluff (boys only) Sept. 8 at Alliance (boys

only) Sept. 10 at Laramie Sept. 12 Cheyenne Central, Cheyenne East Sept. 20 Gering (boys only) Sept. 23-24 Regionals at Cheyenne Sept. 30-Oct. 1 State at Gillette GIRLS Nickname: Trailblazers Head coach: Mary Perkins NOTES: No. 1 singles player Jade Palmer-Miller is a junior who played No. 2 in 2015. She placed fourth at regionals. “Great work ethic and put the time in this summer to move up to number one,” Coach Perkins said.

Emily Zavorka, a senior, will play No. 2 singles.

“She brings experience to the number two spot and hits a powerful groundstroke,” Perkins said.

Abbi Mitchell and Sydney Hill, both seniors, will return at No. 1 doubles They placed second in the South Conference and third at state. Named All-Conference and AllState. They also bring

three years of experience playing together. “They worked in the offseason to improve their game. They are gamers on match day.

Their leadership is valued. The rest of the lineup is yet to be determined,” Perkins said.

Aubrey Powell and Richelle Fitzsimmons are back to help fill out the No. 2 and No. 3 doubles positions.

Schedule Aug. 20 at Casper Kelly Walsh Jamboree Aug. 25 at Kelly Walsh and Natrona County Aug. 27 at Laramie Aug. 30 Rawlins, Cheyenne South Sept. 3 Scottsbluff Tourney Sept. 6 Scottsbluff (boys only) Sept. 8 at Alliance (boys only) Sept. 10 at Laramie Sept. 12 Cheyenne Central, Cheyenne East Sept. 20 Gering (boys only) Sept. 23-24 Regionals at Cheyenne Sept. 30-Oct. 1 State at Gillette

team,” Coach Halley said. … Laura Halley placed 11th in the conference tournament last year.

Last year’s highlight: Essert earned a runner-up finish at state.

Schedule Aug. 18-19 Wheatland Invite Aug. 25-26 Douglas

Invite Aug. 29 Scottsbluff Invite Sept. 1-2 Rawlins Invite Sept. 8-9 Torrington Invite Sept. 16-17 Conference at Buffalo Sept. 23-24 State at Powell

GOLF Nickname: Blazers Class: 3A Conference: ABSORAKA Regional: 3A East Head coach: Jeff Halley (5th season) Varsity assistant coach: John Gibson Returning starters: Caleigh Essert, so.; Laura Hal-

ley, so.

Top newcomers/transfers: Kenna Noble, sr.; Kailee Wilson, so.; Jenna Kaufman, fr.; Jade Reinhardt, fr.

Season outlook: “We are excited to field a full girls’ team this year,” Coach Halley said. “It has been a while since we

have had enough players.

If our younger girls can get in the swing of things, we could make a run at a state championship on the heels of Caleigh Essert who is probably the favorite to win the individual title. We are pretty excited about our girls golf team this season and the

next few years with a great group of young players.”

Notes: Last season Essert placed first in the conference meet and was second at state. “Caleigh had a great year as a freshman and this past summer has torn up the junior circuit including a spot on Wyoming’s America Cup

CROSS COUNTRY

Photo courtesy of Torrington Telegram

Here are members of Torrington’s cross country teams. Pictured are (back row, from left) William Flukiger, Brice Krick, Cameron Juma, Jesse Lay, Pake Haun, Trey Rodriquez, Angel Alsides; (front row) Shelby Schainost, and Renee Cline. Not pictured are Chase Dominquez and Alexandra (Alex) Krueger.

Nickname: Trailblazers Class: 3A Coach: Nyana Sims Team: William Flukiger, Brice Krick, Cameron Juma, Jesse Lay, Pake Haun, Trey Rodriguez, Angel Alsides, Shelby Schainost, Re-

nee Cline, Chase Dominguez, Alexandra (Alex) Krueger.

Comments: “We are in a building year – as is evident from our numbers – especially with the girls,” Coach Sims said. “Last year we

graduated six seniors. This year we have four returning athletes: William, Alex, Renee and Shelby. The others are athletes from the track team (this is their first year in cross country, and for many, as distance runners).

“Our stars from last year – Madison Werner and Canton Afdahl – have both gone off to college.

Madison is playing soccer in Sheridan, and Canton is part of the Eastern Wyoming rodeo team.

There are no predictions as to how the team will do.

I do know they will improve each and every week.

In one week they have all improved and are making some gains. It should be an exciting season with some

growing pains along the way.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to not only coach these athletes but to coach side-by-side with my husband and head track coach, Mark Sims.”

Fall Sports Preview Thursday, August 25, 2016

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Thursday, August 25, 2016

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