CONCORDIAN THE
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2015 — 20 PAGES
2015 I-70 Conference Football Schedules
PAGE 2 — THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Concordia
Sweet Springs
8/21 Higginsville
7 p.m.
8/21 Windsor
9/4 Sweet Springs
7 p.m.
9/4 Concordia
9/18 Santa Fe
7 p.m.
9/18 Orrick
10/2 Lone Jack
7 p.m.
8/28 Orrick
9/11 St. Paul
9/25 Wellington-Napoleon 10/9 Crest Ridge 10/16 Trenton
Saint Paul Lutheran
8/21 Sacred Heart
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
8/28 Sweet Springs
7 p.m.
9/11 Concordia
7 p.m.
9/4 Orrick
9/18 Lone Jack
9/25 Crest Ridge
10/2 Wellington-Napoleon 10/9 Santa Fe
10/16 Missouri Military
8/21 Slater
Santa Fe
8/28 Crest Ridge
9/4 Wellington-Napoleon
7 p.m. 7 p.m.
7 p.m.
7 p.m. 7 p.m.
7 p.m.
7 p.m. 7 p.m.
7 p.m.
9/11 Lone Jack
7 p.m.
9/25 Sweet Springs
7 p.m.
9/18 Concordia 10/2 Orrick
10/9 Saint Paul Lutheran
10/16 Wentworth Military
7 p.m.
7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.
8/21 Braymer
7 p.m.
9/4 Saint Paul Lutheran
7 p.m.
9/11 Wentworth Military
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
10/2 Crest Ridge
7 p.m.
10/16 Wellington-Napoleon
7 p.m.
10/9 Lone Jack
Wellington-Napoleon
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
8/28 Saint Paul Lutheran
9/25 Santa Fe
7 p.m.
8/21 Lone Jack
7 p.m.
9/4 Santa Fe
7 p.m.
8/28 West Platte 9/11 Lexington
8/21 Archie
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
10/2 Sweet Springs
10/9 Concordia 10/16 Windsor
9/18 Sweet Springs
7 p.m.
9/25 Lone Jack
7 p.m.
10/2 Santa Fe
7 p.m.
10/9 Wellington-Napoleon
7 p.m.
10/16 Appleton City
7 p.m.
Lone Jack
8/29 Summit Christian Academy 9/11 Santa Fe
7 p.m. 7 p.m.
7 p.m.
10/2 Concordia
7 p.m.
10/9 Sweet Springs
7 p.m.
10/16 Archie
7 p.m.
Best of Luck to All the Area Schools! Make us your
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
9/25 Orrick
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
1 p.m. 7 p.m.
9/18 Saint Paul Lutheran
7 p.m.
9/11 Orrick
9/25 Saint Paul Lutheran
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
9/18 Wellington-Napoleon
9/11 Crest Ridge
9/4 Crest Ridge
8/28 Santa Fe
9/4 Lone Jack
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
Crest Ridge
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
10/2 Saint Paul Lutheran
10/16 Sweet Springs
8/28 Concordia
8/21 Wellington-Napoleon
7 p.m.
10/9 Orrick
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
9/18 Crest Ridge
9/25 Concordia
Orrick
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THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — PAGE 3
Orioles looking for turnaround season by Hobby King SPORTS WRITER
After a disappointing 2014 season, it’s time to turn the page and move on for the Concordia Orioles and fourth-year head coach Tom Gramates. A year ago, the Orioles slipped to 3-7 overall, which included a 3-4 performance in the I-70 Conference. Two of the other three setbacks were to bigger schools — Higginsville in week one and Trenton in week nine. Offense wasn’t the problem as the Orioles scored more than 30 points per game, including more than 40 points on four occasions. However, the defense allowed more than 35 points per contest, including 50 or more in three games and at least 40 in three more contests. Gramates, who is being assisted by J.K. Basye and Josh Link, will have a roster of 24 from which to pluck starters. The list includes five seniors, eight juniors and five sophomores. Senior signal-caller Jordan Schlueter returns to lead the offense, which is a flexbone out of a pistol set.
He will be helped out in the backfield by another senior starter Patrick Hastings, who was a secondteam all-conference pick last year. The other two players listed in the backfield saw a smattering of playing time last year in junior Sam Rodenberg and s o p h o m o r e Cameron Cooper. Senior Mason Rohr returns to lead the receiving corps along with juniors John Sparks and Spencer Brown. The Orioles graduated Ty Flandermeyer, an honorable-mention all-conference pick last year. Across the front, the Orioles have some replacing to do. Gone are all-conference picks Evan Collner, a second-team selection, and honorable-mention pick Andy Galloway. The line will be anchored by sophomore center Abram Frerking. On his left will be freshman Caleb Pfannkuch at guard and junior Dalton Reynolds at tackle. On Frerk-
ing’s right will be guard sophomore Colton Rosser and senior tackle Collin Stringer. “If the line comes together, we’ll be OK,” Gramates said. In the 3-4 defensive scheme, Frerking and Rosser are slated to be the ends, with senior Marshall Lindstrom anchoring the middle at nose guard. Gone is all-conference second-teamer Trent McGinnis. The Orioles also lost all-conference honorablemention pick David Hemme on the line. Hastings, Pfannkuch, Reynolds, Stringer and Sparks are the leading candidates for the starting spots at linebacker. Rohr, Schlueter and Brown are the team’s top prospects at corner backs, with Kelly at free safety and Rodenberg at strong safety. Defense was what Gramates termed “a huge weakness last year.”
“Coverage is key. We will have to play iron-man football and go allout on every play.”
“It must improve this year,” he said. On the special teams, Sparks and Schlueter are battling for placekicker and kickoff specialist, while Pfannkuch, who was a second-team all-conference selection at punter in 2014 will nail down that spot. It takes more than a good punter, though. “We were not as good on special teams last year as we had been in the past,” Gramates said. “Too many players took plays off during special teams. This led to big returns, punt blocks, etc. “Coverage is key. We will have to play iron-man football and go allout on every play.” Gramates is hopeful the Orioles can return to the state playoffs for the first time since 2011. “We can be as good as good as we want to be,” he said. “That means we have to work extremely hard to be good, but it is something we can achieve. “If we choose to be lazy in practice, we won’t be very good.” Gramates says the conference is hard to figure. “It appears that everyone is having some trouble with numbers,” Gramates said.
We wish best of luck to all Concordia High School teams this season!
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PAGE 4 — THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015 Charles Dunlap/The Concordian
Members of the Concordia R-2 High School football team (from left) are: (front) Cole Tyler, Andrew Hon, Sam Rodenberg, Spencer Brown, Lane Mueller, Caleb Pfannkuch, Jordan Schlueter; (middle) Carter Warren, Cameron Meyers, Abram Frerking, Mason Rohr, Cameron Cooper, Logan Hemme, Turner Yount, John Sparks; (back) Ethan Pfannkuch, Colton Rosser, Marshall Lindstrom, Nathan Janik, Patrick Hastings, Collin Stringer, Dalton Reynolds, Tate Bittiker and Cameron Kelly.
Charles Dunlap/The Concordian
Members of the Concordia R-2 High school volleyball team (from left) are: (front) Alexis Hemme, Calli Keith, Bailey Heimsoth, Alexis Borgstadt; (middle) Shelby Spalding, Mallory Scherer, Gloria Guier, Meredith Scherer, Jacobi Powers, Jacey Smith; (back) Kayla Davis, Moriah Rudy, Ellison Brunkhorst, McKenna Meyer, Cailey Cooper, Sami Brackman, Madison Langkrahr and Laura Edwards.
Lady Orioles hope to piggyback off 28-win season in 2014
THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — PAGE 5
by Hobby King SPORTS WRITER
Entering her eighth year as head coach, Leslie Basye is hopeful the Cocordia Lady Orioles can piggyback off one of the best-ever seasons in school history — as far as overall record is concerned. The Lady Orioles did lose two matches within the I-70 Conference's regular season and thus wound up third behind Santa Fe, and Saint Paul dropped only four of their other 33 matches, winding up 28-6-1. But that type of season has its downside — the loss of good players to graduation. In this case, the Lady Orioles only lost one starter — Brittany Reinwald — to graduation, which means five fulltime starters return to a potent lineup. However, Reinwald was the leader in assists with 291. “She was a four-year varsity setter who was a very strong leader and our motivating force on the team,” Basye said. Basye, who is being assisted by Aimee Bredehoeft, has a roster that numbers 21, including six seniors, six juniors and four sophomores. Cailey Cooper, a 5-foot-8 senior, and 5-7 sophomore Sami Brackman return as outside hitters. “Cailey is a smart, aggressive player who takes care of the ball,” Basye said. “Brackman made great strides in her game play last year, and we are looking forward to seeing her improve as this season progresses.” The Lady Orioles have some power in the middle, as well, with the return of 6-2 senior Ellison Brunkhorst and 5-9 senior Gloria Guier. “Elli is working harder than ever before to become a dominating force on our offense,” Basye said. “Gloria al-
Lone Jack seeks improvement by Nathan Gerdts SPORTS WRITER
Heading into his third season as head volleyball coach at Lone Jack, Jerry MacLean is looking for his team to improve in all facets. The Lady Mules certainly have nowhere to go but up after winning just six matches last year. “Our team this year must play as a team,” MacLean said. “Last year, our girls weren't as compatible, but this year there has been much improvement in summer leagues and practices. Our girls are working together better than ever, and I believe we are going to have a great season.”
ways works hard and is continuing to work on hitting placement and blocking technique to contribute in the front row on offense as well as defensively.” Brunkhorst paced the team in kills with 250, with Guier putting down 110 spikes and Cooper 105. With 5-6 senior returning starter Mallory Scherer and 56 sophomore Mady Langkrahr back as setters, the Lady Orioles are in a good position.
“Finding our rhythm and playing at our level will make a difference this year.”
“Mallory is a very smart volleyball player with good court sense, which makes her the perfect person to run our offense,” Basye said. “As a lefty, she can be a threat offensively. “Mady showed vast improvement as last season progressed. She will also be a big impact player hitting out of the right side.” Scherer was second on the team in dishing out assists with 167. Mallory's twin sister, Meredith Scherer, will be the team's libero. She led the Lady Orioles with 45 aces from Seniors Savannah Lyons and Andie Arnone are back to lead the Lady Mules. Lyons earned an all-conference honorable-mention selection last season. Juniors Taylar Meeks and Ashton Stropes also return to the starting lineup. Sophomores Abby McManus and Malaina Kirk are expected to step up. MacLean also thinks freshman Mattie Eichelberger could have a big effect early in the year. “Our seniors must have a big impact on the team,” MacLean said. “They must be able to keep the team going through wins and losses while being good role models.” MacLean thinks the Lady Mules can improve their win total from a season ago. If so, they will have a chance to put up a winning record. “Our No. 1 goal this year is to have fun, but also to play to our best ability and keep pushing the bar higher,” he said. “Our girls are working hard every day to succeed and give 100 percent.”
the service line. “She's a returning starter whose speed and agility contributes to the success of the defense,” Basye said. With Brunkhorst, Cooper, Brackman and Guier leading the way, Basye is happy with the power. “All around, I have smart hitters,” she said. “However, they will have to continue to put in the work to make our offense quicker if we want to move our game to the next level.” Basye said her team has always been strong on defense and in serve receive. Five players recorded over 150 digs a year ago, with Cooper at the top of the list with 227, followed by 5-3 senior Shelby Spalding with 206, Mallory Scherer with 173, Reinwald with 163 and Meredith Scherer with 157. “Meredith alongside Shelby Spalding and then add other strong passers make our defense pretty solid,” Basye said. “Our block was our biggest weakness last year. Once the front row improves their technique and speed, our defense should be a strength for us.” But Basye wants the Lady Orioles to be more assertive offensively. “Offensively, we often get too comfortable and are scared to take risks when they matter the most,” she said. “Finding our rhythm and playing at our level will make a difference this year.” Basye, whose team in 2009 was two points away from advancing to the school's first Final Four in volleyball but has not been back to the postseason since, is hopeful the Lady Orioles have all of the ingredients to cook up an historic season. “Staying healthy will be crucial to this team's success, as well as striving for excellence and playing with self-discipline,” she said.
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PAGE 6 — THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Charles Dunlap/The Concordian
Members of the Saint Paul Lutheran High School football team (from left) are: (front) Brenton Wright, Aidin Muehler, Tony Pan, Christopher Mays, Trenny Hering, Jeremiah Brandt, Isaiah Davis; (middle) John Cowherd, Derek Woodall, Caleb Hentges, Wyatt Jones, Brett Mueller, Elijah Muehler, Micah Lemmons, Matthew Nebel; (back) Ryan Kollbaum, Mark Allen, Peyton King, Peyton Mays, Alex Thornton, Thomas Long II, Daniel Royuk, Jose Alicea and Theo Ryder.
We wish best of luck to all Saint Paul Lutheran High School teams this season! Curt & Karol’s Home Center TJ’s Auto Restored Treasures Tony’s Auto Repair Kammeyer Electric
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Saints start anew after historic 2014 season
THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — PAGE 7
by Nathan Gerdts SPORTS WRITER
It’s safe to say that Larry Laubenstein has seen a lot of football in his time at Saint Paul Lutheran High School. But even in 41 years as the Saints’ head coach, the one thing he hadn’t witnessed was his team winning an I-70 Conference championship outright. That is, until 2014 when the Saints went 9-0 in the regular season behind an explosive offense and a deep senior class. However, the best season in school history was halted with a 35-12 loss at home to Cole Camp in the first round of the Class 2, District 7 playoffs. A lack of experience may hurt as the 2015 campaign gets under way, with just four seniors returning. Laubenstein believes the keys to having won nine games in two of the last three seasons are still in place to yield another successful season. “We’ve been getting some more speed,” Laubenstein said. “Also, our athletic training class is paying dividends. Players are getting faster and stronger.” Of the four seniors, Matt Nebel has the most experience as a starter. Nebel has been a starting offensive lineman
since he was a sophomore, and he earned a second-team all-conference selection last year. Senior Peyton Mays will be a force on the line alongside Nebel. Juniors Peyton King, Daniel Royuk and John Cowherd also are expected to get significant playing time. An offensive line in flux must gel early to help young skill-position players get positive results. The Saints will need a solid performance from some new faces to duplicate last year’s 37 points-per-game output. That starts at quarterback, where first-team all-conference performer Peter Lemmons is gone. Junior Caleb Hentges will move from receiver, where he received allconference honors, to be the signal caller after winning an off-season competition. “He will certainly have a learning curve,” said Laubenstein of Hentges. “But he’s fast and intelligent, and he has the best arm of the guys we’ve tried (at QB).” Hentges caught passes and carried the ball in the Saints’ wing-T offense. Now he’ll run the ball, pass it, and hand off to junior fullback Derek Woodall, starting for the second straight season. Sophomore Mark Allen also will get a chance to carry the ball at halfback. Senior Wyatt Jones and sophomore Jose Alicea II will
Lady Saints try to keep winning with a new cast by Nathan Gerdts SPORTS WRITER
In the fall of 2010, a third-place finish at the state tournament was probably nothing more than a dream for Aaron Marsh as he entered his first season leading the Saint Paul Saints' volleyball team. When it became a reality, the winning hasn't stopped. In five seasons as head coach at SPLHS, Marsh has made three trips to the Class 2 Final Four, winning a district title every year and finishing either first or second in the I-70 Conference. Heading into season six, Marsh doesn’t think it will be that complicated to replicate the formula that has produced so much success. “The biggest key has been getting kids to compete hard and continue to
work on the fundamentals of the game daily,” Marsh said. In other words, good coaching and great effort allows for the Lady Saints to plug-in-and-play regardless of how much talent was lost from the previous season. Last year’s 34-6-2 campaign had a lot to do with those who have graduated, including all-conference selections Tiffany Bennett and Rebecca Roepe, and Marsh believes it will take a combination of veterans and newcomers to keep the winning tradition going. Senior outside hitter Anna Colwell and junior setter Shannon Peters have the most experience as the lone
“Our goals for this season are to improve as a team on a daily basis. . .”
starters back from last year’s team. Marsh also sees promise in freshmen Lynda Bennett and Karson Troth, who will need to make an impact early on a young squad. “We are emphasizing to compete daily and work on the fundamentals,” Marsh said. “With our inexperience, every moment is a chance to learn and get better.” The schedule will be challenging, with reigning conference champion Santa Fe expected to bring a solid returning cast and match-ups once again with Class 4 opponents, Rock Bridge and Columbia-Hickman. Despite the Lady Saints' youth, Marsh sees the match-ups as great learning opportunities, win or lose. “Our goals for this season are to improve as a team on a daily basis,” Marsh said “In the long run, we hope to give ourselves a chance to compete in the conference as well as district (play) when those times come around.”
split out at receiver. Junior Ryan Kollbaum will see some snaps at tight end, a player Laubenstein says “has a great football mind.” The defense also lost a number of all-conference performers. Nebel is back at an end spot after earning a first-team all-conference selection last year, and he will get help from King at the nose tackle. Mays and Kollbaum will man the interior linebacker spots, while Woodall will lead the charge as an edge rusher in the Saints’ 3-4 scheme. Jones is expected to make a number of big plays as a safety. Allen and Alicea will get opportunities at cornerbacks. Despite a large number of changes from a conferencechampionship 2014 season, Laubenstein is not too concerned just yet about wins, losses or even the ever-improving competition within the conference. “The I-70 will be tough,” Laubenstein said. “You hear rumors of schools losing players, but you never know. Wellington and Lone Jack will be tough. But right now, we just want to get the right people in the right positions.”
Good luck to all the teams this year!
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PAGE 8 — THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Charles Dunlap/The Concordian
Good luck to all the area teams!
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Members of the Saint Paul Lutheran High School volleyball team (from left) are: (front) Chelsea Dillon, Shani Yoesel, Madison Perrin, Linda Bennett, Emily Aversman, Rebekah Whitmore, Abbigail Graham, Emily Kusel; (middle) Madalynn Stammer, Noelle Boyle, Rebekah Self, Caroline Hagan, Meghann Roepe, Clara Nebel, Faith Brown, Shannon Peters; (back) Katlyn Rehkop, Agnese Eterno, Chloe Fuhrman, Corinna Colwell, Anna Colwell, Grace Stumbaugh and Carson Troth.
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Chiefs return quality players in backfield
THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — PAGE 9
by Nathan Gerdts SPORTS WRITER
Sarah Reed/The Concordian
Members of the Santa Fe High School football team (from left) are: (front) Kolton Borchers, Matt Peters, Tanner Begemann, Connor Bergman, Caleb Bergman, Wyatt Sims; (middle) Jared Rieves, Dillon Caton, Leyton Minnis, Devin Breland, Peyton Sowers, Joseph Boothe; (back) Nick Borchers, Ryan Cox, Luke Schmidt, Derrick Staton, Thomas Schmalz, Ben Reeders, Ben Hinz
Lady Chiefs thinking big by Nathan Gerdts SPORTS WRITER
It’s been a charmed life for Kinsey Harms as head coach of the Santa Fe Lady Chiefs' volleyball team. In her first four years, Harms has led Santa Fe to the Class 1 Final Four each campaign. Last year’s team had a particularly outstanding campaign, winning an I-70 conference regular-season championship, a third-place finish in the Class 1 state tournament and 33 total victories. How has Harms turned Santa Fe into a powerhouse so quickly? It’s a team effort, and not just the coaches. “The players do a lot in the off-season,” Harms said. “Many of my seniors spend time in the weight room, play in leagues, and attend camps at other schools, etc. The parents and community are really supportive. It makes for a great environment to raise a successful team.” The 2015 version of the Lady Chiefs will have to replace a dynamic outside hitter in Lexi Smith, who earned first-team all-conference and first team all-state selections. Harms believes Sadie Limback can step up and become a powerful force on offense. Senior Courtney Bishop also is expected to take on extra duties as a hitter Seniors Kylie Limback and Lauren Wiggins
are back after they also garnered all-conference and all-state honors. Maleigh Limback is an incoming senior expected to take over at setter. She’ll help out Cara Hinz and Abby Zietlman, two players Harms said are “huge for our defensiveresponsibilities.” A veteran roster chock-full of talent may have many in Alma dreaming of another I-70 crown, a fifth straight Final Four appearance and, perhaps, that elusive state title. Count Harms among the dreamers. “I expect the holes we may have had to be filled with role players that aren't afraid of the pressure,” Harms said. “I want us to reach our potential. We have lots of talent and potential. We just need to focus it and drive it to its potential.”
Good Luck
Finishing a season with a .500 record tends to signify an up-and-down performance from a football team. It was no different in 2014 for head coach Andy Frerking and the Santa Fe Chiefs. After going 3-4 in I70 conference play and winning two non-conference games, the Chiefs fell in the first round of district play to Fayette, 44-6. Frerking is hoping a much more consistent season is in store for 2015. “(The veterans) need to lead our team by making big plays, especially on defense because we are so young,” Frerking said. Senior Ben Hinz returns to head the Chiefs’ Flexbone offense at quarterback. Hinz was a first-team all-conference selection as an all-purpose player on offense, but the loss of Truman Sleeper means Hinz will play quarterback full time. “Ben is a good, well-rounded athlete who can play any position on the field,” Frerking said. “I think his passing has improved, and that will take a little pressure off our option package.” Hinz will hand off the majority of the time to senior running back Ben Reeders. Sophomores Blake Schreiman and Jared Rieves will also have chances to tote the ball in a run-heavy offense. Frerking believes if the blocking is good, the Chiefs’ ground game will thrive. That duty falls to a young offensive line. Seniors Ryan Cox and Thomas Schmalz are
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back, but the other three starting spots will be rotated among senior Dillon Caton, moving to the line for the first time, and three sophomores — Peyton Sowers, Layton Minnis and Nick Borchers. “It’s an inexperienced group with a couple of good seniors,” Frerking said. “Our line needs to mature fast for us to be successful.” Frerking thinks the receiving corps will be the most improved part of Santa Fe’s offense. Senior Luke Schmidt will be the top target, with sophomore Matt Peters also getting a chance to make plays. Defensively, the Chiefs will use a variety of looks to stop opponents but will mostly attack from a 3-4 set. Cox and Schmalz are returning starters who will look to again wreak havoc from the defensive line. “Improved play (on the defensive line) will be the key to our season,” Frerking said. “We must stop the run and pressure the pass.” Reeders and Rieves will lead the young linebackers, but the strength of the team is in the secondary, where Hinz returns after receiving all-state honors as a defensive back. Schmidt and Peters also return to the defensive back half. That's a good tackling group that leads a team Frerking wants to get better each game. “Our goals are to keep improving week to week,” Frerking said. “We want our younger players to learn quickly how to compete.”
“Improved play (on the defensive line) will be the key to our season. . .”
PAGE 10 — THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015
We wish best of luck to all Santa Fe High School teams this season!
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THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — PAGE 11
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Members of the Santa Fe High school volleyball team (from left) are: (front) Lauren wiggins, Abby Zitelman, Kylie Limback, Courtney bishop, Mackenzie Phillips, Maleigh Limback, Kimber LaGore, Leigha Graf; (middle) Alex Coleman, Kaitlyn Topel, Brittany Dillon, Cara Hinz, Alexa Begemann, Katrina Langon, Hannah Schuette; (back) Megan McGary, Kyla Head, Izzy Drake, Kaylee Breshears, Sadie Limback, Josey Burton, Caitlyn Aversman, Emily Limback.
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Greyhounds hope to get more wins PAGE 12 — THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015
by Hobby King SPORTS WRITER
For two straight weeks in his first season as a head coach, Kris Conley enjoyed the fruits of his labor as the Sweet Springs Greyhounds dominated their opponents. But the other eight weeks, the Greyhounds were on the losing end of battles inside and outside the I-70 Conference. Conley is hopeful the Greyhounds can bottle what they did in a 62-0 win over Wentworth Military Academy in week four and 400 victory over Orrick in week five. Still, he wants the Greyhounds to be more competitive with the top-tier teams in the conference.Take away those two lopsided wins, the Greyhounds were outscored 329-88, getting within double digits in a loss only once — a 35-26 setback at Santa Fe in week six. Off that team, the Greyhounds lost four senior starters in quarterback/cornerback Andrew Krause, offensive lineman/linebacker Jared Dillon, running back/safety Austin Boland and fullback/linebacker Trevor Phillips. Each one of them had special talents on the gridiron, according to Conley. “Andrew was very athletic with a big arm,” Conley said. “He was fun to coach because you only had to tell him something once. Trevor did a great job cementing the defense in the middle. He was one of those kids who knew everyone’s position. Trevor made our offense go.” Dillon was a second-team offensive lineman and honorablemention selection on defense in the conference. “He helped anchor the offensive line,” Conley said. Conley said Boland “was having an excellent season until it was cut short with an injury.” Still, he played well enough to earn honorable-mention status as a defensive back.On this year’s roster are 21 prospective players, including five seniors, five juniors and four sophomores. The Flexbone offense will be led by senior quarterback Austin Knipmeyer. Joining him in the backfield will be returning senior starters Rhett Snider and all-conference honorable-mention athlete Justin Mitchell. Also back to help out the offense as a starter is senior Mario Persell. The fullback will be a bit more green as freshman Joey Cox is slated as the top prospect. The Greyhounds also will be lacking experience up front, with four of the five being first-year starters. At tackles will be junior twin brothers Joe and John Markes at tackles, junior Levi Miller and senior Garrett Hollingsworth, the only
Charles Dunlap/The Concordian
Members of the Sweet Springs High School football team (from left) are: (front) Terral Mckinney, Garret Hollingsworth, Justin Mitchell, Rhett Snider,Austin Knipemeyer, Mario Persell; (second row) John Markes, Will Persell, Logan Combs, Levi Miller, Joe Markes; (third row) Nick Ownby, Zach Giffen, Logan Reid, Bret Green; (back) Marcus Barney, Seth Eckhoff, Chris Geiseke, Riley Vogelsmeier, Joey Cox.
returning starter, at guards and senior Terral McKinney at center. Conley, who is being assisted by Dan Conner, Jacob Corcoran, Vince Fink and Zach Thomas, says if the Greyhounds are going to be successful, the line will have to be able to move opponents. “Like any offense, it all starts up front,” he said. “We have to sustain our blocks, not only linemen but our receivers and backs included. “The whole offensive unit needs to be on the same page. Offense is about timing and execution.” Joe and John Markes return as starters at defensive ends, as does Hollingsworth at defensive tackle. The leading candidate for nose guard is McKinney. Joining Mitchel at linebacker will be sophomore Zach Giffen, Miller and Knipmeyer in the multiple set alignments. Persell returns as a starter at one corner, with the other still to be decided. Snider
earned all-conference honorable-mention status and returns as the starter at free safety. “We have a talented group of players at all three levels,” Conley said. “We are going to need everyone doing their job and flying to the ball.” Persell, an honorable-mention pick, returns as the team’s kicker. He also will serve as the Greyhounds' punter. “We are going to be using our special teams to try and get an advantage in the field-position game,” Conley said. Conley is all about doing what’s best for the team. “We are a team,” he said. “The positions may change, as no spot is set in stone. No one person is greater than the team. “We have a great attitude at practice and work hard.This is a great group of kids, which makes it fun and (makes me) proud to be their coach.”
We wish best of luck to all Sweet Springs High School teams this season!
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Jones hopeful to build winner at Sweet Springs
THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — PAGE 13
by Hobby King SPORTS WRITER
In the early 1980s, Alicia Jones played an integral part on two state-championship volleyball teams for the Santa Fe Lady Chiefs. Now, the 1984 SFHS graduate has a new challenge, as for the first time, she is a head coach of a high school volleyball team — the Sweet Springs Lady Greyhounds. Winning has not been a staple at Sweet Springs, but Jones, who is the sister of University of Missouri All-American Yvette Buhlig, has confidence she can lead the Lady Greyhounds from the depths of the bottom half of the I-70 Conference to the top four. In order to do so, Jones, who is being assisted by Robin McMains, will have to figure out how to replace five starters. Gone are twins, Ashleigh and Nicole Bright as middle blocker and outside hitter, respectively; defensive specialist, Anna Eckhoff; setter, Megan Evans; and middle blocker, Olivia Loges. “We lost some very strong players from last year,� Jones said. Still, the Lady Greyhounds had trouble getting their footing by finishing 1-6 in the I-70 Conference and 6-13-2 overall. Despite the loss of the talent, including Loges and Evans being named to the honorable-mention list of the all-conference selections, Jones is hopeful the Lady Greyhounds can improve, with a roster that numbers 27, including five seniors, six juniors and nine sophomores. Miranda Tyler, a 5-foot-9 senior, and 55 senior Kortnee Vaught will provide some power as outside hitters. “Miranda is a strong hitter, as well as an aggressive server,� Jones said. “She is taking on some new roles, and we are excited to see what she can do. “Kort is our one returning (starter) from last year. She is such a hard worker and is able to take on any assignments we task her.� Tori Hinton, a 5-6 junior, is slated to fill the role as the middle hitter. “Tori adds definite strength to our offense,� Jones, a
Sarah Reed/The Concordian
Members of the Sweet Springs High school volleyball team (from left) are: (front) Kayla Bowlin, Miranda Tyler, Kortnee Vaught, Bailey Coyer, Hayden Dodds; (second row) Jacqueline Bowlin, Hannah Veits, Madison Vogelsmeier, Brooke Vogelsmeier, Addison Eckhoff, Lynzi Miller, Taylor Love; (third row) Coach Alicia Jones, Mikayla Nieman, Natasha Love, Sydney Vaught, Summer McBryar, Brooke Conner, Allison Morrison, Lauren Eagle, Ashley Corn, Assistant Coach Robin McMains; (back) Katelyn Evans, Chelsea Schroeder, Olivia Hagar, Kathryn Hollingsworth, Emily Phillips, Jolynda Sampson. Team members not pictured are: Tori Hinton, Manager Katelin Looney, Manager Brianne Looney 2010 graduate of William Woods University in Fulton, said. “She is a versatile hitter who will be a big contributor.� Jones said 5-3 junior Addison Eckhoff is in line to be the team’s setter. “Addy provides the leadership and communication we will need offensively, and also in her defensive role for the team,� Jones said. As important as it is to be strong offensively, Jones is excited about the team’s defense. “It is great to see the hustle and hard defensive work we have seen,� she said. Jones, who has been the head coach of the Static Volleyball Club since 2010 — coaching youth players ages 7-12 and 13-18 — thinks the Lady Greyhounds will be able to put some balls down with power. “We have some very solid hitters, and (we are) looking forward to nice things,� she said. Jones said the setters provide excellent leadership and will be a strength, and the defense “works hard and very well together.� Jones, who was the assistant coach for the William
“We have some very solid hitters, and (we are) looking forward to nice things. . .�
Woods Lady Owls — a team led by Santa Fe graduate Jenny Mueller, who is now the head coach at Pittsburgh State University — during 2008-10, points to leadership as a positive. “We have strength in our leadership and have big expectations for our season,� she said. “We will play to our strengths. “The ladies work very well together, and we are just excited to get on the move and bring it to the court when we start playing other teams.� Jones said the Lady Greyhounds will need to be able to do it all. “We will have to play solid ,R ,UH\KRXQGV
offensively and be a strong defensive presence� to be suc- 'T 5QPCNF +KPVQP ''6 cessful, she said. “We will 6 0KNNGT need to focus on playing our 6YGGV 6RTKPIU 02 game and putting the ball down.�
Minyard takes over Orrick Volleyball Program PAGE 14 — THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015
by Nathan Gerdts SPORTS WRITER
“I have moved several players around this year and up to the varsity level, and I believe we have made changes which will make Orrick a strong contender this year.” The Lady Bearcats will look to improve on their 10-win total in 2014 on the strength of their returning veterans. Junior Madi Fulte is expected to contribute in an all-around fashion. Senior Hannah Thurnau will join Fulte as a captain and is a strong presence on the front row. Junior Madison O’Dell will be the featured setter and has impressed coaches with a strong serve. Minyard also thinks sophomores Paige Smith and Avorie Capps will have an impact on the attack. “(They) are only sophomores, but they are two of the strongest hitters I have ever gotten to work with,” Minyard said.
“We want to continue to work on digging out of the net and getting the players outside their comfort zone when it comes to playing new positions. . .”
Adjusting to a new job is always a unique experience. When that job is becoming head coach of a volleyball team in the competitive I-70 Conference, the adjustment has to come in a hurry. Such is the task in front of Stacey Minyard, who takes over the Orrick Lady Bearcats' program. “The biggest challenge is adjusting to the team dynamic and getting to know the players and their playing styles,” Minyard said.
Orrick in search of a return to winning ways by Nathan Gerdts SPORTS WRITER
After a disappointing first year as Orrick football coach, Dave Rash is looking for positives in the 2015 season. Specifically, he’s looking for just one win, after 2014 yielded no victories. “We expect to be more competitive this year,” he said. “Obviously, we will happily take as many wins as we can get.” It will take a total team effort for the Bearcats to improve. Orrick fields a roster of just 16 heading to the start of the season, but 12 players return — including three seniors. “Everyone we have back has seen a ton of varsity playing time,” Rash said. “The guys have worked their tails off in the weight room during the off-season and are stronger because of it.” The Bearcats will continue to run option football offensively, with sophomore Grant Stubbeman getting a chance to head the attack at quarterback. Senior Bryar Martin will see some reps under center as well, but he will spend the majority of his time with junior Alex Stockton in the backfield powering the ground attack.
For the offense to improve from last season’s 11.2 points-per-game average, Rash believes his offensive line must mesh together early. Juniors Doug Lindaman and Colin Inks, sophomores Joe Clark and Walker Easley, and freshman Conner Greer will look to pave the way for the Bearcats' running game and keep the quarterback clean when the Bearcats switch it up and go to the air. The receiving corps of junior Charles Sherwood, sophomore Dylan Bartley and freshman Blaine Wilson will look to capitalize on chances they get to create big plays. “Our receivers are going to have to make some possession catches throughout the year,” Rash said. If Orrick’s offense needs to take a big leap forward in 2015, the defense needs to improve more. After surrendering almost 56 points a game last season, the Bearcats will look to get better with mostly the same starters, although Rash believes Seth McAfee anchoring the secondary at safety and freshman Caleb Stenger moving into a linebacker spot will provide consistency to the team seeking plenty of it. “Last season, some games got away from us,” Rash said. “We are focusing on staying in the game by the fourth quarter and never giving up.”
Despite shaking up some things in her first months in charge, Minyard thinks her team has settled in nicely to its new look and can bring Orrick much more success. “We want to continue to work on digging out of the net and getting the players outside their comfort zone when it comes to playing new positions,” Minyard said. “Some of the girls have found they are strong in places they have never tried to play. “Our goals for the season are to remain consistent in our serves, continue to (improve) our defensive play, and win games by playing as a team.”
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Consistency is key for Lone Jack Gridders by Nathan Gerdts SPORTS WRITER
There were ups and downs for Jason Fenstermaker in his fourth season as head football coach at Lone Jack. A 6-5 2014 season ended with a 42-6 loss to Plattsburg in the semifinal round of district play, but Fenstermaker knows the Mules must improve on their 3-4 record against I-70 Conference foes to break through and have a special 2015 season. “Wellington, Crest Ridge and Saint Paul will be fighting for the top spot,” he said. “We are hoping to be in that group.” Lone Jack sports a high-powered offense that will give it a chance to reach the upper echelon.The Mules averaged 32 points per game in 2014 thanks to three allconference performers. Two of them return in senior quarterback Joey Brandon and junior receiver Justin Moore. Moore also earned a third-team all-state selection. Lone Jack will have to replace all-conference running back Nick Kirk, who gained almost
1,500 yards of total offense last season. Josh Harper and Gavin Hardman will look to power the ground attack, while Jacob Ewing and Tyler Berry will join Moore in the receiving corps. “We have a lot of experience in the skill positions, and we have won some close games,” Fenstermaker said. As good as the Mules were on offense last season, their defensive shortcomings overshadowed the offensive output, giving up 35-1/2 points per contest. Fenstermaker hopes that Josh Hopper and Berry will lead the charge of a much-improved defense, which will rely on multiple sets and schemes to succeed. The way his team has come together during preseason camp has the Lone Jack coaching staff believing the Mules have a shot at the school’s first I-70 Conference title. “We will only be pushing 20 kids on the team, so they will need to work hard,” Fenstermaker said. “We will have to be disciplined, and we will need to be aggressive.”
The way his team has come together during preseason camp has the Lone Jack coaching staff believing the Mules have a shot at the school’s first I-70 Conference title.
Woolsey Says Lady Cougars should be strong
THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — PAGE 15
by Hobby King SPORTS WRITER
With some solid middle blockers returning for the 2015 season, the Crest Ridge Lady Cougars could be in the championship mix in the I-70 Conference on the volleyball court. Katie Woolsey, who is returning for her seventh year leading the Lady Cougars, has a roster of 19, including four seniors, three juniors and seven sophomores. The Lady Cougars will need to replace the play of graduated seniors Kelsie Seaman, a starting libero, starter Whitney Hutcherson at outside hitter, defensive specialist Leah Kemple and starting middle blocker Lily Hunter. Among the returning starters are the talented duo of senior Kaylee Schmidli and Megan VanHarn. A year ago, Schmidli served at a 97-percent clip. “She's our most consistent player with lots of experience and (provides) great leadership,” Woolsey said. “VanHarn is an excellent blocker who is improving her ability daily.” Junior Timber Erisman returns as a starter at setter. “She's a great defender with tons of energy and is a good floor leader,” Woolsey, who is being assisted by Sara Rooney and former Orrick head coach Lauren Duvall, said. At outside hitter, Woolsey is going to depend on senior Kyla Nimsgern, a returning starter, and
one of four junior-varsity starters: sophomore Maddie Seaman, junior Trisha Everhart, senior Chloe Borgan or senior Kelsey Sivils. JV starters last year, junior Sam Brookshier and sophomore Brittany Wonderly are vying for playing time as the team's libero. Woolsey also said freshman Stormi Erisman is in the mix for playing time. Woolsey said the team has some strengths. “We are strong in the middle and working on consistency from the other positions,” she said. She said the Lady Cougars also are strong at setter and keeping the ball from hitting the floor on their side of the net. “We will be strong defensively as the girls work hard and move well to the ball,” Woolsey said. Woolsey is looking for an upgrade in hitting the ball. “Hitting power and some inexperience,” Woolsey said are negatives. “Both will improve as the season progresses.” Woolsey knows there might be some growing pains with younger players involved. But she is hopeful leadership will win out. “We have a lot of new-to-varsity players that will look to step up to the great example of teamwork our returners have given,” she said.
“We are strong in the middle and working on consistency from the other positions. . .”
PAGE 16 — THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Wellington’s defense will be key if Tigers are to competer for title by Hobby King SPORTS WRITER
Rarely in his previous eight years as head coach have Quenton Bainbridge's Wellington Tigers' football squad had trouble scoring points. But, at times, the Tigers have not been able to fend off opponents and have lost high-scoring contests. Bainbridge is hopeful this is the year the Tigers, who return nine starters on each side of the ball, put it all together at the same time. Last year, the Tigers outscored their opponents, but not by the margin Bainbridge would like to see. The Tigers averaged over 38 points per game while they surrendered 33.3 points per contest. They gave up 30 points or more in three games. Still, the Tigers had enough talent on both sides of the ball to finish second to Saint Paul in the conference standings, losing their matchup 49-30 in week seven. Bainbridge, who is being assisted by Andy Hampton, Lincoln Bainbridge, Tristan Layman and Daniel Petet, will have to find replacements for two-way starters Levi Banner and Alex Rodenberg. “Levi was our anchor on offense (wide receiver) and most dynamic weapon,” Bainbridge said. “Alex was our leading tackler and the leader of our defense (at linebacker). “These two played tough all year and were the cornerstones of our success. We have a great group of returning players that benefited from their leadership.” Banner also started at defensive back and Rodenberg as another re-
ceiver. Of the 25 players on the roster, six are seniors, six are juniors and eight are sophomores. Having their starting quarterback returning, the Tigers are in good shape. Dallas Reynolds compiled impressive stats last year as a junior. He is 6-foot tall and 175 pounds. Sophomore Jordon Hill and junior Dylan Brockmeyer are the top candidates to be the running backs in the spread attack. Hill is 5-7, 140, and Brockmeyer 5-11, 170. Brockmeyer is a two-way returning starter and Hill started on defense. Blake Gray is a 57, 155p o u n d senior, returning starter at wide receiver and defensive back, and Tristan Green is a 6-0, 190-pound senior returning starter at wide receiver/running back. He has started all three of his previous seasons at different positions. Three of the five starters across the offensive line weigh in at 200 pounds or more. Senior Brock Brockmeyer (6-3, 220) is a two-year returning starter at right tackle and junior Matt Block
(6-3, 200) are leading candidates to be the tackles. Sophomore Stone Willoughby (5-10, 235) and senior Zach Jenkins (6-0, 185) are returning starters slated to be starters again at the guards. Senior Luke Schaberg also is a returning starter at center. “We should be very balanced,” Bainbridge said. “We are adopting a different scheme, which hopefully will promote a more balanced attack. “We need to find a way to be more consistent than we have in previous seasons. We have had some explosions on offense some weeks, with a complete drought the following week. For us to be successful, we need to find a way to produce more efficiently.” Bainbridge says up front will be the main key. “Our line will be the backbone of our offense, followed by our quarterback,” he said. “If our line performs to their ability, and our quarterback makes effective reads, we will have a good season.” The defense will be anchored by the defensive ends, returning starter
“We are experienced, but have not been great on defense in past years,” Bainbridge said. “This side of the ball will determine how good we will be this year.
Dylan Brockmeyer and Green, who will be moving up from a starting position at defensive back. Brock Brockmeyer and Jenkins return for their third year as starters at defensive tackle. Reynolds will be a force on defense, too, playing linebacker. Also nailing down linebacker spots are Schaberg, who like Reynolds, has started each of the last two seasons. Sophomore Dillon Brisbin, who started last year before being injured is the other linebacker. Gray, junior Duncan Hughes and Hill are the top prospects in the secondary. Gray and Hughes have started since their sophomore years, and Hill was a starter in 2014. “We are experienced, but have not been great on defense in past years,” Bainbridge said. “This side of the ball will determine how good we will be this year. “We need to find a way to get stops on third down. We have been able to play most teams tough at times in past seasons, but big plays on third down have been our Achilles' heel.” Bainbridge thinks the Tigers can be pretty good, but they will need to be tested early and often. “I think we could be competitive with anyone we play this season. We know our conference will be tough, as Saint Paul, Crest Ridge, Lone Jack and Santa Fe will return some great talent. These are our first four conference games, so we will have to be ready to play tough when the season begins,” he said. “Sweet Springs, Orrick and Concordia will be young, but talented. We will not take any games lightly.”
Tuter enters fifth year as Lady Tigers’ head coach
THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — PAGE 17
by Hobby King SPORTS WRITER
Peggy Tuter enters her fifth year as head coach of the Wellington Lady Tigers' volleyball team with optimism. However her 2015 team will be young. Of the 16 players on the roster, less than half are upper upperclassmen. The roster includes two seniors, five juniors and five sophomores. The Lady Tigers are coming off a season in which they were 18-92 overall and made it to the semifinal round of their district tournament. But the Lady Tigers will have to find solid replacements for seniors Mikayla Lohsandt and Abby Thompson, both first-team all-conference selections in 2014. One of the team's powerful hitters will be 5-foot-8 senior outside hitter Morgan Weedman. Also a player who saw some varsity time last year and will be counted on this year is 5-6 junior Jayme White. Others who could get some play-
ing time on the varsity level as outside hitters include 5-8 junior Tessa Bushnell, 5-7 junior Carington Key, 5-6 sophomore Kiera Paige and 5-8 junior Sammy Blystone. “Tessa has flexibility in playing each position (on the front row),” Tuter said. “She adapts very well. “Kiera is a very aggressive player with sound fundamentals. Sammy has a strong block and is getting much stronger in putting each set away. She gives us a strong rightside hitter in a 5-1.” A freshman could be the starter for the Lady Tigers as middle hitter. Tuter said Carleigh Jenkins, who is 5-8, is “very strong and is starting to mature. She did a great job during summer league. Once she gets some playing time, I think she will be very good. Caitlin Niendick, a 5-7 sopho-
Tuter said the team should have a “very balanced offensive attack. . .”
more, also could get some varsity height last year. Quick and steady is playing time. our motto.” “She has a very strong block and She said teamwork and unity will is coming along quickly in learning be a key to the team having success. the offense,” Tuter said. The leader of the offense will be returning starter, 5-7 senior Jaime Ruskey. This will be her third Physical Therapy of Concordia year as a starter. “She has good court Locally Owned... Local Therapists... presence and is a strong Local Success server,” Tuter said. “She will only get better as the season progresses.” Kiera Southgard, a 5-0 sophomore, is the Kathy Cooper, PT leading candidate for libero who played some Shelly Yount, PTA varsity toward the end of last season, accordJaala Schlesselman, PTA ing to Tuter. “She is a quick deKris Reinwald, fensive-minded athJennifer McCaslin, PT lete,” Tuter said. Tuter said the team Brandi Reinwald should have a “very balanced offensive attack with plenty of athletes on the bench to help support.” Tuter has an upbeat outlook to the upcoming season. Monday 8am - 6pm, Tuesday 8am – 5pm, Wednesday 8am - 6pm, “(We're) going to Thursday 8am - 5pm, Friday 8am - 6pm rely on our back row this year,”she said. “We do have strong blocks, but we lost much of our
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Cougars return majority of starters to fold on gridiron PAGE 18 — THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015
by Hobby King SPORTS WRITER
A year ago, the Crest Ridge Cougars were good on both sides of the ball. However, the Cougars dropped two games within the I-70 Conference, thus finished third behind Saint Paul and Wellington. Eighth-year head coach Chris Cavanah, whose team won the conference and advanced to the 2013 Class 1 quarterfinal round, thinks his team might be primed for another run at a league crown. Still, he must find replacements for three starters on both sides of the ball, including first-team all-state defensive back Justin Donald and second-team all-state linebacker Cole Renick. Cavanah, who is being assisted by Mark Amos, Jake Vencill, Keagan Prather, Flip Courter and Sam Crosson, has a roster of 36 players from which to pluck talent. The roster includes 11 seniors, six juniors and 12 sophomores. The Cougars, who averaged 332/3 points per game on offense, return talented quarterback Tyler Rodgers, a 6-foot-2, 160-pound senior. He passed for 713 yards and nine touchdowns in a run-heavy wishbone offense last year. “He showed us he is a capable quarterback, and the offense will be built around his strengths,” Cavanah said. Also back is 5-8, 160-pound senior running back Kolin Reynolds, who rushed for 1,172 yards and 15 TDs last year as a fullback. Also in the mix at running back is 165-pound Houston Edwards. Noah McCune, a 6-0, 190-pound senior, also returns as a receiver. He
is a four-year starter who has earned all-conference honors every year, including first-team status last year. Jayson Burnap, a 6-0, 180-pound junior, is another of the receivers. “He's athletic and fast,” Cavanah said. “We need to find ways to get him the football.” Bret Bestgen, a 5-9, 150-pound senior who started nine games at running back last year, also is slated to be a receiver. Also in the mix is 5-10, 160-pound junior Sam Matthews. Trevor Shippy, a 61, 190p o u n d senior, returns as a starer at tight end. Also vying for playing time is 6-0, 180-pound sophomore Hayden Ridge. T h e Cougars have a mammoth offensive line, including all five projected starters being over 200 pounds. Dustin Metcalf, a 5-10, 250pound senior, started 13 games in 2013 but did not play last year. He is the top prospect for right tackle. The other tackle is likely to be returning starter Jake McCannon, a 63, 293-pound sophomore. The line's anchor will likely be 510, 235-pound senior Jacob McIn-
doo, a returning starter at center. At guards, Nick Wilcox, a 5-9, 215-pound senior, is slated to be on the right side and 5-10, 230-pound senior Matt Dick is the top candidate at left guard. Dick has been a fouryear starter, and he's been a firstteam all-conference selection each of the past two seasons. Austin Collins, a 6-0, 210-pound senior, who started some at center and guard last year, will provide some depth or could actually end up a starter. Cavanah said the team having five starters back on the line makes it a strength. “ T h i s group is both athletic and big,” he said. “This line could be special, and we will go as far as they take us.” But there are places the Cougars must improve, which involve consistency. “We need to be more balanced than we have been the last few years,” Cavanah said. “We have always run the ball pretty well, but for us to take the next step, we need to have more success throwing the ball.” The Cougars' 4-4 defense allowed only 202 points (55 of which came in a second-round district
“This line could be special, and we will go as far as they take us.”
playoff loss to Skyline) last year, and most of the talent returns. Dick and Shippy are back as defensive ends. Dick had 43 tackles and seven for a loss and Shippy 62 tackles and seven sacks last year. McIndoo returns as a starter as defensive tackle, with Metcalf the top prospect for the other tackle. McCannon and 6-3, 350-pound Dylan McCune also in the mix. Wilcox returns as a starter at linebacker. He totaled 104 tackles last year. McCune also is a returning starter at linebacker who had 96 tackles in 2014. Avery Matthews, a 5-9, 180pound sophomore, and Ridge also are returning starters. Ridge was a starter during the six games the Cougars were without Renick due to injury. Bestgen and Rodgers are back a starting cornerbacks and 6-0, 180pound Jayson Burnap at free safety. Edwards also could be in the mix for some playing time. “We have a ton of depth,” Cavanah said. “It's a physical group that can really run.” Cavanah points to specifics that will make the Cougars successful on defense. “Our edge players need to have a great season for us to be successful,” he said. “Those guys have to take away the outside running game as well as the quick passing game and force people to run between the tackles.” Cavanah is hopeful everything will mesh and the Cougars can compete at a high level. “This could be a special team, but we have a long way to go to get where we want to be,” he said.
2015 I-70 Conference Volleyball Schedules
THE CONCORDIAN, Concordia, Missouri, Wednesday, August 26, 2015 — PAGE 19
Concordia
8/25 Lexington 8/27 Smithton 8/31 Santa Fe/Green Ridge 9/1 Wellington-Napoleon 9/10 Lone Jack 9/14 Kingsvile 9/15 KC Lutheran 9/17 Crest Ridge 9/24 Hughesville Northwest 9/28 Orrick 9/29 Sweet Springs 10/1 Windsor 10/8 Santa Fe 10/15 Saint Paul Lutheran
6 p.m. 6:30 p.m 6:30 p.m./7:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 6:30 p.m.
Saint Paul Lutheran
8/17 Hickman 8/25 Knob Noster 8/27 Higginsville 9/1 Hughesville Northwest 9/3 Lexington 9/8 KC Lutheran 9/15 Hickman 9/17 Rock Bridge 9/21 Odessa 9/24 Lone Jack 9/29 Santa Fe 10/1 Orrick 10/5 Cole Camp 10/6 Wellington-Napoleon 10/8 Crest Ridge 10/13 Sweet Springs 10/15 Concordia
Santa Fe
8/25 Carrollton 8/31 Green Ridge/Concordia 9/1 Lone Jack 9/3 Higginsville 9/10 Sacred Heart 9/14 Sweet Springs 9/15 Crest Ridge 9/22 Wellington-Napoleon 9/24 Kingsville 9/29 Saint Paul Lutheran 10/1 Marshall 10/5 Hughesville Northwest 10/8 Concordia 10/13 KC Lutheran 10/15 Orrick
6 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:45 p.m. 7 p.m. 6:45 p.m. 6:45 p.m. 6:45 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 6:45 p.m. 6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m./7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m./7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.
Sweet Springs
8/25 Hughesville Northwest 9/1 Green Ridge 9/3 Sacred Heart 9/9 Smithton 9/14 Santa Fe 9/15 Wellington-Napoleon 9/22 Crest Ridge 9/23 Kingsville 9/29 Concordia 10/1 Lone Jack 10/6 Wentworth Military 10/7 Otterville 10/13 Saint Paul Lutheran 10/14 Sherwood
5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 6 p.m. 6 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6 p.m.
8/24 Lexington 8/27 Carrollton 9/1 Concordia 9/3 Odessa 9/10 Richmond 9/15 Sweet Springs 9/17 Kingsville 9/22 Santa Fe 9/24 Orrick 9/29 Lone Jack 10/1 Crest Ridge 10/5 Lathrop 10/6 Saint Paul Lutheran 10/8 Wentworth Military 10/13 Summit Christian Academy 10/15 KC Lutheran
6 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6 p.m. 6:30 p.m.
Wellington-Napoleon
Crest Ridge
8/25 Smithton 8/27 Sacred Heart 8/31 Hughesville Northwest 9/1 Adrian 9/3 Green Ridge 9/8 La Monte 9/8 Kingsville 9/10 Archie 9/15 Santa Fe 9/17 Concordia 9/22 Orrick/Sweet Springs 9/24 KC Lutheran 9/28 Sherwood 10/1 Wellington-Napoleon 10/6 Lone Jack 10/8 Saint Paul Lutheran 10/12 Windsor
5:30 p.m. TBA 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5 p.m. 7 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5 p.m./7 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m.
Orrick
8/27 West Platte 9/1 Lathrop 9/3 Richmond 9/8 Plattsburg 9/14 Lexington 9/15 Lawson 9/21 Mid-Buchanan 9/22 Crest Ridge 9/24 Wellington-Napoleon 9/28 Concordia 9/29 Wentworth Military 9/29 Chilhoweee 10/1 Saint Paul Lutheran 10/6 KC Lutheran 10/12 Lone Jack 10/15 Santa Fe
5 p.m. 5 p.m. 6:30 p.m. TBA 5 p.m. TBA TBA 5 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. TBA TBA TBA 7 p.m.
8/25 Midway 8/27 Van Horn (Independence) 9/1 Santa Fe 9/8 North Platte 9/10 Concordia 9/15 Miami 9/17 Adrian 9/22 West Platte 9/24 Saint Paul Lutheran 9/29 Wellington-Napoleon 10/1 Sweet Springs 10/6 Crest Ridge 10/8 Marantha Christian Academy 10/12 Orrick 10/13 Archie 10/15 Barstow
6:30 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 6 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 6 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6 p.m.
Lone Jack
We’re proud to support all of our area athletes! We’re not only your electric cooperative, We can also help with your high-speed internet needs! Call us today!
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Bariatric Surgery Cancer Center Cardiology Diabetes Management Diagnostic Imaging g y Medicine Emergency
The Expert Team You Need... Express (Urgent) Care Female Incontinence General Surgery Intensive Care Maternity/Birthing Center
– Acute Care County Medical Center –
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Medical/Surgical Nursing Orthopedic Services Outpatient Services Pain Management Center Pediatrics
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Pulmonology Rehabilitation Services Sleep Medicine Sports Medicine Women’s Health Wound Center
To learn more, visit WMMC.com, call (660) 747-2500 or find us on Facebook.
Here’s to a healthy 2015 – ‘16 season for all athletes!
403 Burkarth Road p Warrensburg, MO 64093
Always Right Here, Closer to Home!
Surgical Services of Warrensburg –General Surgery & Bariatric Surgery–
Western Missouri Bone & Joint –Orthopedic Surgery–
Western Missouri Women’s Health Center –Obstetrics & Gynecology–
407 Burkarth, Suite 302 Warrensburg p (660) 747-5558
510 Foster Lane, Suite 101 Warrensburg p (660) 747-2228
415-A Burkarth Road Warrensburg p (660) 429-2228
Western Missouri Family Healthcare – Holden –Family Healthcare–
Western Missouri Family Healthcare – Knob Noster –Family Healthcare/Express Care–
Western Missouri Internal Medicine –Internal Medicine–
807 W. 2nd Street Holden p (816) 735-7979
600 E. Allen, Suite A Knob Noster p (660) 563-5555
Building Blocks Pediatrics –Pediatrics–
510 Foster Lane, Suite 201 Warrensburg p (660) 262-7415
514 Burkarth Road Warrensburg p (660) 429-2128
Express Care at WMMC –Express (Urgent) Care–
Innes I, 427 Burkarth Road, Suite A Warrensburg p (660) 262-7580