Fall Sports Preview BrenenMitchellSoccerAmberTennisMitchellKernelMollerKernelRoseLukasBennett AsherMitchellGolfKernelDannenbring A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE MITCHELL REPUBLIC ParkstonVolleyballTrojans
HEAD COACH KENT VAN OVERSCHELDE
Landon Dierks / Mitchell Republic Returning letterwinners for the Mitchell High School football team include, from left to right: Front row: Cruze Allhiser, Seth Gillen, Bryce Palmer, Kasey Lopez, Thadan Milliken-Auch, Dustin Kurtenbach and Kaden Killian; Middle row: Tyson Sabers, Brady Wilson, Jagger Tyler, Mick Dailey, Lukas Bennett, Lukas Chenoweth, Seth Foote and Lucas Paul; Back row: A.J. Siemsen, Carson Podhradsky, August Anderson, Camen Max, Treyson Schulz, Carson Jennings, Connor Singrey, Drake Jerke, Jaden Ledbetter and Brok Ellwein.
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In 2021, the Kernels were outgained by a relatively modest 60 yards per contest but surrendered 33.9 points per game, which ranked better than only winless Douglas (38.2) at the bottom of Class 11AA. Reversing this trend starts with two key areas: limiting big plays and getting off the field on third down. The defense will face a big test to start the season, as Mitchell welcomes Eastern South Dakota Conference rival Yankton — ranked third in the preseason poll — to Joe Quintal Field for the season opener. In two meetings last season, the Bucks eclipsed 40 points both times and had 10 combined touchdowns through the air. Following its season opener at home, the Kernels will return Saturday, Sept. 3 for a matchup with Sturgis in the Kernel Bowl game. Other home dates include Sioux Falls Jefferson (Mitchell’s lone Class 11AAA opponent) on Sept. 23, Watertown on Oct. 7 and another conference rivalry against Huron to bookend the home slate on Oct. 14. Mitchell kicks off its away schedule with Pierre on Sept. 10, with other road contests at Aberdeen Central on Sept. 16, Spearfish on Sept. 30 and Brookings on Oct. 20. “It’s what we have in front of us, and that’s what we have to prepare for,“ Van Overschelde said of the schedule.
On any given Friday night, good things can happen. Our guys will definitely be ready to play football.
By Landon Dierks Mitchell Republic MITCHELL — A late surge to end the 2021 season and a strong core of returning talent has the Mitchell High School football team aiming high in 2022.Mitchell, ranked No. 5 in the Class 11AA preseason media poll, opens its season on August 26 looking to improve from last season’s 3-7 record and continue building off what was a strong finish to the regular season that saw the Kernels rise from outside the playoff picture to a place firmly within theNowfield.featuring a slightly different cast of characters but returning many with starting experience, the 2022 Kernels have already demonstrated that they’re trending in the right direction through preseason camp, according to head coach Kent Van Overschelde.“Ourguys have really shown they understand that camp is a process, and over the course of our camp, there’s certainly been a natural progression of a team that’s coming together,” said Van Overschelde, who’s entering his 16th year leading MHS football. “... If that continues, I definitely think we can move up from where people anticipate where we’re at, but it’s about putting in the work to make that a reality for us.”
Kernels look to climb in 2022 Off three-win 2021, MHS ready for new football season
If Mitchell is to make good on the potential Van Overschelde sees, it’s no secret where that’s likely to start, with the coach putting it simply: “Obviously, we’re counting on a core group.”Treyson Schulz, who accounted for more than 1,250 yards (834 passing and 418 rushing) and 12 touchdowns, is set to reprise his role as the starting quarterback for his senior season. He’ll have plenty of options to distribute the ball to, with a pair of 200-yard receivers in A.J. Siemsen and Lukas Bennett on the outside and Jagger Tyler likely to contribute in both the running and passing game. Additionally, center Camen Max, guard Carson Podhradsky and tackle August Anderson — each with starting experience from last season — make for a formidable right side of the offensive line. That group, along with an up-andcoming set of promising playmakers, is tasked with filling in the void left by the graduation of several regular starters on both sides of the football — chief among them leading tackler Joe Van Overschelde, top rusher Josh Grosididier and two-way linemen Adam Fahey and Kendall Fick. Defensively, Tyler, an honorable mention all-state defensive back last season, headlines a group a little light on experience but high on upside, according to Van Overschelde. “There are some question marks,” Van Overschelde said, pointing at the left side of the offensive line as one of the larger examples. “But on the defensive side, we’re pretty much set. With the work we were able to do over the summer, we think that we’re in a good position to have a muchimproved effort on the defensive side.”
“We want to be playing our best at the end of the year and put ourselves in the best possible position for the playoffs. We know that Class 11AA is going to be very competitive, especially on the top end.” A preseason No. 5 ranking, which matches the Kernels’ position in the final regular-season standings from a season ago, is a nod to a team that was playing its best football late in 2021. However, Van Overschelde prefers the Kernels to focus on internal goals, not external projections. “We don’t have to listen to what everybody else says; that’s the biggest message,” Van Overschelde said. “We start letting someone else set out expectations, that’ll become somewhat self-fulfilling. We have to set our own expectations and not conform to what others may say. “On any given Friday night, good things can happen,” he continued. “Our guys will definitely be ready to play football.” n
With experience and opportunity,
Delaney Degen will be Amber Moller’s partner in Flight 1 doubles and will also be the Flight 2 singles player. The last two seasons, Degen has hoisted state doubles titles and will be another player on the Kernels’ roster that will be heavily relied upon.
“Instead of getting distracted by the fact that I’m off doing something else, they keep them going,” Lockhart said of her seniors. “They keep them stretching, they keep them stunting, they keep them dancing, whatever needs to be done. It’s always nice when you return an experienced team.” The team gets going on Saturday, Aug. 27, in Aberdeen and then competes one to two times a week. They will compete in nine competitions as well as the state competition on Oct. 23. Mitchell cheer is coming off one of its most successful seasons in recent memory and is hoping to build on that success moving into the upcoming year. “Mitchell is known to be a tumbling team. That is our strong suit. And so that does look incredible this year,” Lockhart said. “... This team knows what it’s like to feel successful on the cheer floor and so they’ve come back hungry. I haven’t had to ask them to try to push us to the next level.” As for Mitchell dance, Cassie VerHey’s squad is led with upperclassmen. Eight of the 13 varsity dancers are either juniors or seniors, which means a lot of experience is coming back to the competition floor. The team will be switching things up a bit from last year, solely focusing on jazz and hip hop for the upcoming season. However, despite the new routines, the older age of the roster
The Mitchell Republic sports staff and the South Dakota section. Many coaches responded to the
This team knows what it’s like to feel successful on the cheer floor and so they’ve come back hungry.
NOTE ABOUT THIS SECTION:
“We’ve always had depth on this team and that depth is finally getting their opportunity and they’re going to have to jump into that with both feet,” Moller said. “They’ve all been working on their game and preparing themselves for this, especially Carsyn Weich. I think she’s going to be one of those players that surprises some people.”With everyone on the team embracing their new roles, Moller said this season will certainly be filled with even more doubters than before and they’ll actually be the underdog.
SEEK TO CLIMB
Flight 3 through 6 singles players, which includes Carsyn Weich, Elly Clement, Ireland Blindauer and Maddie Childs, will all have their first opportunity of varsity tennis this season. Weich and Blindauer will be Flight 2 doubles partners, while Clement and Childs will be Flight 3 doubles partners. Despite Weich and Clement being sophomores and Childs being a freshman, coach Moller said the young core has been waiting their turn the past couple years to show what they can do.
High School Activities Association website to put together this special
By Branden Hull Mitchell Republic MITCHELL — Despite being the reigning three-time Class A champions, the 2022 Mitchell High School girls tennis team might be facing their biggest challenge in recent memory. The Kernels will not have a chance to defend their Class A title and will now compete in the Class AA division, after the South Dakota High School Activities Association Board of Directors effectively voted to move Mitchell up a division in March. That change, combined with the Kernels losing the majority of their varsity players from last season, presents several hurdles for the now young team.Head coach Pat Moller said the team is looking forward to overcoming every obstacle they expect this year.
“It’s definitely going to be more challenging moving up classes, but we get the opportunity to play tennis against the best tennis players and teams in the state and we’re looking forward to it,” Moller said. Across the flight chart, every player for Mitchell will be embarking on a new role this season. Amber Moller will be the Flight 1 singles player and moves up from a Flight 2 doubles player the past few seasons. She’ll have the challenge this season of what comes with being the Flight 1 tennis player on a team her father coaches, but will also have to be an extension of her father in a coaching aspect for the remainder of the team.
The team has been focusing and will continue to focus on its doubles play throughout the year as Moller said that has been a big part of their recent state titles and that’s where they lack experience.Missingmany integral pieces that led to the three-peat in Class A has motivated the varsity newcomers to prove themselves and the group is fully embracing the challenges to come.“These girls are proud to put on that Mitchell Kernel uniform and it means something to them because of the success we’ve had,” Moller said. “We are still the three-time repeating state champions and our girls know, along with that pride, comes expectations.” Moller added, “I’m sure there’s going to be bumps in the road and we don’t have to win every match, but we have to learn and get better with every match. With that goal and focus, hopefully, by the end of the season come postseason play, we’ll be ready.” n
newspaper’s request for information but not all teams returned questionnaires or photos prior to the newspaper’s print deadline.
By Zech Lambert Mitchell Republic MITCHELL — Mitchell High School’s cheer and dance teams come into 2022 with the objectives to be competitive everywhere they go. For Mitchell cheer, they are a “tiny but mighty” squad, according to coach Alisha Lockhart. As per the nature of the sport, everybody needs to do their respective job during a routine, but the three seniors on the team — Kyra Groper, Lara Woodstrom and Sara Mauszycki — have emerged as leaders.
“Amber Moller is going to play Flight 1 for us and coming into her fifth year of playing varsity tennis, she has the most experience on our team by a long way,” Pat Moller said. “Her maturity and experience is going to be leaned upon by a lot of these other girls and her ability to be an extra coach out there and help others gain perspective in big situations is going to be key for our season.”
mitchellrepublic.com mitchell republic, mitchell, S.D. | SaturDay, auguSt 27, 2022 | Fall Sports Preview | 3 BEST OF LUCK! Josie Lemer Insurance Agent 221E 3rd Ave Mitchell, SD 57301 Ph: (605) 996-0088 Fx: (605) jlemer@farmersagent.com996-5112 www.farmers.com GoodAthletes!Luck www.bankwest-sd.bank|1-800-253-0362 Armour,Delmont,Geddes,Gregor y, Kadoka,Kennebec, Madison, Mitchell,Onida, Pierre, RapidCity, Selby, Tripp, Winner MemberFDIC HELPINGCUSTOMERSSUCCEED AND COMMUNITIESPROSPER GoodLuck Athlete s! 1400 North Main Street Mitchell, SD www.thunestruevalue.com605-996-750857301 We Support Local Sports! Have a Great Season.BRICK • POUREDSTONEWALLS FLAT WORK • LASER SCREED CONCRETE((605)996-8471605)770-8874&MASONRY Branden Hull / Mitchell Republic Returning letterwinners for the Mitchell High School girls tennis team include, from right to left: Delaney Degen, Amber Moller and Carsyn Weich. Kernel tennis undaunted by move to Class AA MHS to draw on championship experience in new season Layout Credits: Cover and page design: Jen Phillips Section editor: Marcus Traxler Contributors: Mitchell Republic Sports Staff Photos: Mitchell Republic Staff
As far as players with varsity experience, that list doesn’t go beyond Moller and Degen for Mitchell.
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CHEER/DANCE: Page 4
CHEER,
“Delaney Degen has been playing Flight 3 doubles for two years and has won state titles each of those years,” coach Moller said. “She brings a lot of power and is probably one of the hardest-hitting players in the state in either class. She’s like a sponge from just wanting to continue to grow as a tennis player and if she continues to stay consistent, she’s going to be tough as well.”
COACH ALISHA LOCKHART
compiles information from coaches, athletic directors
MITCHELL’S DANCE TEAMS STANDINGS
IN 2022
The Kernels return leading goal-scorer and firstteam ESD as well as first-team all-state player in Mia Mullenmeister. She notched 21 goals last year, including the two goals in the postseason. Taylin Deckert, who Lemon says solidifies the defense and keeps everyone in position, is also returning to the team coming off a season in which she received an all-ESD honorable mention selection. The other two leading goal-scorers in Taryn Thomas and Kenzi Kayl will also be back, but Lemon said in order to reach the goals they have set, they need to win games by committee. “We have our girls that will lead us primarily on offense and defense, but we truly have a team by committee in a sense where we have 6-8 girls that can run in and out and are equally skilled,” Lemon said. “We’re going to need others to step up and work together to figure out what positions they need to be in.” Adding to the depth of the Kernels roster is Adelyn Prunty, who elected to not play last season and run cross country. Prunty was once a starter for Mitchell two years ago but is now back on the team playing midfield and Lemon said she’s a player who will help out immensely with her experience.
“There’s some positions across the midfield that we aren’t exactly sure what they’ll look like but they’re changing day-by-day and we’re figuring it out,” Lemon said. “The midfield is critical when you’re trying to maintain possession and transition from defense to offense so it’s important that we get that Lemonright.”says the team will need to solidify the midfield and continue to give their all each time they take the field. “Our goal is to be competitive in every game in the ESD and we’re not looking past anybody,” Lemon said. “It would be great to win the ESD but in order to do that we have to bring it every night. We know that Harrisburg is a deep team and Aberdeen is one of the best in the state, but we have to play well against everybody and give our best effort every game.”n
Mauszycki. Back row: Kyra Gropper, Harley Goldammer,
Peightyn
On top of that, VerHey said her team wants to be in the top three in a season competition at least once. Last season in Pierre, the competition VerHey said her team is most looking forward to, Mitchell dance finished second in pom and first in hip hop.
Coming into this season, Mitchell returns all three of its leading goal scorers and head coach Bob Lemon said the team needs to be competitive in every game this season, in preparation for what’s to come in the postseason. The Kernels received votes in the preseason Class AA girls rankings issued by the South Dakota High School Soccer Coaches Association.“Anytime you have an opportunity to get into the playoffs, you’re gaining more experience and that is going to be critical for these girls this season,” Lemon said. “We were disappointed in how the year ended, we all hoped to go further, but we had young players get playing time last year and now we won’t be surprised by the different atmosphere this upcoming season.”
and
By Branden
With seven seniors gone from last year and six more seniors on their way out after this season, next year could be more of a rebuilding year for Mitchell dance, but the mix of faces this season shows promise for what could be a solid year for VerHey’s team. “I have some girls that are really stepping up,” VerHey said, mentioning the likes of Tessa Allen and Keenah Escobin. “(There are also) some new girls from the cheer team that decided to come over and do both that I can also count on them to do the hard tricks.” n Lara Widstrom and Sara Jannessa Stevenson Gwen pictured: Sullivan.
MHS GIRLS SOCCER LOOKS TO TAKE NEXT STEP IN POSTSEASON
brings reason for hope, especially for the“Thedancers.girls talking to their friends (saying), ‘Hey, you should come out’ is even more important this year than in the past,” VerHey said. Mitchell dance’s season starts on Saturday, Aug. 27 in Aberdeen as well and wraps up with the state competition on Oct. 22 in Watertown. Mitchell’s home meet is Oct. 8 at the Corn Palace, the final tune-up before the Eastern South Dakota Conference meet on Oct. 13. For Kernel dance, the hope this year is to finish in the top 10 in the state after coming in 11th last season.
McAbee. Not
CHEER/DANCE
From Page 3 Hull Mitchell Republic MITCHELL — The Mitchell High School girls soccer team is aiming for Eastern South Dakota Conference and postseason success this 2022 season.Coming off a graduation class of 11 seniors last season, the Kernels finished the year with a 5-8-1 record and a first-round loss in the Class AA state tournament to Rapid City Central. Despite losing a game they feel they let slip away, that experience will only serve as fuel for Mitchell this season.
4 | Fall Sports Preview | Saturday, auguSt 27, 2022 | Mitchell republic, Mitchell, S.d Mitchellrepublic.coM www.DakotalandFCU.comVisit Us at Any of Our 12 Branches Aberdeen Brooking s De Smet Huron Madi son Mi tchell • Red field • Volga • Watertown • Wo onsocket • Savings • Checking • CD s • Auto Loans Proud Suppor ter of Our AREA ATHLETES • Mort gage Loans • Busine ss Lending • Student Loans • VISA® Credit Cards www.Dakot alandFC U.com | NML S# 657864 GOOD LUCK to all of our local sports teams! Rodand TaraWeber Woonsocket,SD Phone:605-350-6468 Good Luck Teams! 900 E Kay, Mitchell, SD 57301 www.uppermidwestgaragedoor.com605-990-3667 GOOD LUCK THIS SEASON! FROM YOUR APPAREL HE ADQUARTERS 301S.Burr St ., Mitchell •605.990.3570 www.MakeItMineDesigns .com Michelle Sheesley, FIC 1125 N. Sanborn Blvd. |Mitchell,SD57301 605-996-2675 |michelle.sheesley@mwarep.org Lifeinsurance, retirementplanning and financial ser vices Lifeinsurance, retirementplanning and financial ser vices Dream Big...Try Hard Serving Mitchell & Surrounding Areas for over 55 years New Pre-finishingConstruction,ofWoodwork & Repainting Interior & exterior Call 605-996-1243 The Original Zech Lambert / Mitchell Republic Returning letterwinners for Mitchell High School competitive cheer include, front row from left: Joslin Sommerville, Aubrey Gelderman,
Despite still having a young team filled with 14 sophomores and five freshmen, Mitchell still has a good chance of covering new ground in the postseason, including getting a playoff victory, a hurdle in each of the last three seasons.
Branden Hull / Mitchell Republic Returning letterwinners for the Mitchell High School girls soccer team, include, front row from right to left: Makenzie Peterson, Arian Bird, Erin Stevens and Maddie Kempf; middle row: Emilie Ellis, Katie Stahl, Taryn Thomas, Mia Mullenmeister, Ava Zilla and Taylin Deckert; back row: Kassedy Knippling, Ashlynn Pollreisz, Alexa Chapman, Kenzi Kayl, Jessica Gerlach, Tenley Peterson, Kamryn Thelen and Rylee Jennings.
By Branden Hull Mitchell Republic MITCHELL In its second year under head coach Sean McQuillan, the Mitchell boys soccer team is still working on establishing that competitive culture to be the cornerstone for the team’s longterm success.
While Mitchell is still searching for someone to take over the five and six spots in its lineup every tournament, the Kernels got a boost on the coaching staff. Coming over from the girls team, Jeff Meyerink will be in his first year as an assistant coach for the boys squad, something Kreutzfeldt feels will be a big boost to the team. “He brings a ton of golf knowledge. He knows as much as anybody about this game,” Kreutzfeldt said of Meyerink. “He gets the best out of his players. We saw that with how far he pushed (the Kernel girls) to another runner-up finish. The season gets going for the Kernels on Monday, Aug. 15 in Brandon before heading to Willow Run Golf Course on Tuesday as part of a two-day season-opening tournament. After
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Our outlook is high and the state tournament is in Mitchell this year. We’re working toward that.
Some of the increase in skill and mental game has come with age for Mitchell, but the Kernels are still a relatively young team. Mitchell only has two seniors on the roster — Childs and Bates. Kreutzfeldt has seen Childs answer younger players’ questions on the driving range and putting green, as well as on the course, and become a mentor to some of the younger players on the team.
As a program that’s won six games over the previous four seasons, the Kernels are a better position than recent history would show, McQuillan said. Last year the team was filled with players who were mostly new to playing the sport of soccer, while dealing with a first-time head coach and injuries to players in key positions on the field.
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Brenen Rose, senior midfielder/defender, and Kaileb Hubbard, senior forward/defender, will be the two captains for Mitchell, helping everyone stay in constant communication off the field and doing what’s necessary to get the most out of the players on the field.“We’ll be looking at Brenen Rose and Kaileb Hubbard for a lot of things on and off the field this season,” McQuillan said. “Brenen is going to be the captain that leads more by example and gets the boys going, while Hubbard is going to be the hardworking and vocal guy who’s able to get others to follow his lead.”
“We’re still building that never-quit mentality and regardless of the score or flow of the game, we have to keep pushing,” McQuillan said. “In one year, we changed that somewhat, but we have to keep going. Our seniors want a productive year, our younger players want to change the trajectory of this program and we’ll do that by giving our all every single day.” n
COACH RYKER KREUTZFELDT BOYS GOLF: Page 6
In the process of becoming more competitive and organized, it starts with leadership and having everyone in their necessary positions on the field. Two key players, Sam Mullenmeister and Logan Oehlerking, will be returning for the Kernels after missing the majority of the season last year. Mullenmeister, a midfielder/forward, fractured his foot and only played in one game last year, while Oehlerking, a starting goalkeeper, missed the back half of the season due to a concussion. These two players returning will be vital to how the Kernels structure their defense.
MHS BOYS GOLF PREPARES FOR SEASON WITH OPEN KEY SPOTS
Branden Hull / Mitchell Republic Returning letterwinners for Mitchell High School boys soccer include, front row from left, Gavin Zilla, Zach Fuhrer, Adam Kampshoff, Jackson Deakins and Carver Steffes. Middle row: Greyson Peterson, Sam Mullenmeister, Blake Peterson, Kaileb Hubbard and Cooper Bates. Back row: Austin Hohn, Trenton Regan, Caden Olegario, Mason Kempf, Logan Oehlerking, Brenan Rose, Tate Wenz and Erwin Garcia.
“We’re going to be a different team this season, but we will be much more like the team that ended the season last year,” McQuillan said. “We’ll be more competitive, we’ll have more drive and we’ll be more organized.”
After only winning one game last season, Mitchell still wants to establish that competitive toughness that can carry over throughout the season regardless of the score on the scoreboard, seeking to earn the respect of its opponents.
Kernel boys soccer expects improvement in 2022
Coming into this season, McQuillan and the team have a better understanding of what goals are obtainable for them as a group, with a couple of starting players returning to their positions, allowing others to play in their natural roles.
mentioned Marshall Widstrom, Brady Reiners, Dawson Adams and Sam Titze as four possible names to fill those final two spots. However, despite the uncertainty, Kreutzfeldt has seen improvement from his players heading into the season from both a mental and physical“We’vestandpoint.seenguys be able to hit it further,” Kreutzfeldt said. “We’re making some smarter decisions … they’re becoming a little smarter.”
By Zech Lambert Mitchell Republic MITCHELL — After the graduation of No. 1 golfer Macon Larson, the Mitchell boys golf team has a few holes on its roster for 2022. Thankfully for the Kernels, it returns four letterwinners from a year ago in Noah Larson, Lincoln Bates, Jackson Childs and Asher Dannenbring. Behind those four key contributors will be a host of Kernels to fill the remaining spots in tournaments, according to coach Ryker Kreutzfeldt. “There’s a lot of guys that are right in there that’ll probably be kind of revolving at our five and six spot,” Kreutzfeldt said of the team’s depth. “If we can find two guys who can play consistent in that spot for us we’ll be prettyKreutzfeldttough.”
The team has 10 sophomores and three freshmen on the roster, meaning youth will be a key part of the Kernel roster. Mitchell will run a 3-5-2 and 5-3-2 formation that they are much more familiar with and that gameplan will help them on the defensive end initially, in hopes to lead to easier offensive“Comingpossessions.intotheseason, we just want to focus on the small details and formation that the boys are used to,” McQuillan said. “Last year, we had to make so many changes mid-game and the team wasn’t used to that. We also weren’t used to the competition coming our way either, but as the season went on, we started to figure it out. It’s going to be much better starting off the year healthy with everyone knowing their role.”
Zech Mitchell Republic Noah Zech Lambert
Returning letterwinners for Mitchell boys golf include, from left, Lincoln Bates,
In terms of a schedule, Buschbach said the Kernels are trying to stay a bit closer to home for their road meets this season in hopes of competing against more schools similar in size as opposed to traveling to places like Sioux Falls as they’ve done in years past.
“Our outlook is high and the state tournament is in Mitchell this year,” Kreutzfeldt said. “We’re working toward that.”
Returning letterwinners for Mitchell High School cross country include, from left: Mya Vogel, Alexis Daley, Aspen Evers, Kennedy Olsen, Brock Russell and Elijah Schroeder.
MITCHELL — There is some inexperience but promise surrounding the Mitchell cross country team heading into 2022. The Kernels only return six letter winners from a year ago, but with a lot of newcomers, the roster remains fairly similar in size to last season. And the letter winners that are returning, give Mitchell a shot at competing in events this season.
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The only male returners are Brock Russell and Elijah Schroeder, who Buschbach said should be Mitchell’s leading runners. On top of that, the Kernels have Alexis Daley, Mya Vogel, Aspen Evers and Kennedy Olsen coming back for the upcoming season. Olsen was Mitchell’s top finisher at the state meet last year, checking in at 83rd as a junior. However, Mitchell has a lot of sixth graders on the team this year, making for a younger team than in most years. Despite a young team, though, there are higher expectations for some individual“Expectationsrunners.are pretty high for Brock (Russell) and Eli (Schroeder) yet this year,” Buschbach said. The Kernels also get London Schroeder back from an injury last season, and Buschbach expects her to be in the mix for the top girls spot on the team as just an eighth grader this year.
“It’s more so for the kids to be able to learn how to push themselves harder and compete,” she said about competing against similarly sized schools. “It’s really hard to push your time and to compete when you know you’re in these big gaps, which happens a lot in those big races.”
Lambert /
A season ago, Mitchell’s girls team finished 18th at the Class AA state meet, while the Mitchell boys were last among 19 boys teams at the Class AA boys state meet, without a runner in the top 100 finishers.
that, the team will have a tournament or two every week until the state championships, which take place right on Mitchell’s home course — Lakeview Golf Course — this year. That state tournament is less than two months away, taking place Oct. 3-4.
Mitchell Republic
Larson, Asher Dannenbring and Jackson Childs. By
“Those six kids were our leaders last year,” head coach Katie Buschbach said of the letter winners. “To have those guys back is a really great thing for our team and our program.”
MITCHELL CROSS COUNTRY CARRIES YOUNG ROSTER INTO NEW SEASON
Buschbach is also setting time standards to qualify for the state meet this year for Mitchell. She said the idea is to give the runners a time to shoot for and work toward to prepare for the state“(It)meet.gives them a little bit more of an edge to be able to compete,” Buschbach said of the time standards for the state meet. “I think Eli and Brock will be really great at state. “They know what they have to do from Day 1.”n
Zech Lambert / Mitchell Republic
School volleyball season is drawing near and
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inMitchell2022.
Traxler Mitchell Republic MITCHELL — A
Kernel experience to emerge in Marcus new Mitchell High a mix experienced be important in how far the Kernels can go was 11-13 last season, but the team brings back a lot of experience from the 2021 campaign. Four returners — Lizzie Tyler, Sawyer Stoebner, Taylor Giblin and Alyssa Magee — played in all 81 sets last season. (Jurzee Gregg, a setter, played in all but one.) That core will be leading the way for MHS, coach Deb Thill“We’resaid. going to have to outwork our opponents because we’re not tall enough at the net to do a lot of damage there,” said Thill, who is in her 32nd year as Kernel head coach. “We are going to have to be excellent with ball control. We’re going to have to refuse to let balls hit the floor and we’re going to have to control where it goes, as well, so I’m hoping that this team will embrace that team mantra this year.” With the departure of Kaspen Alm to graduation, Mitchell will have a sizable hole in its attack that it will try to fill, as Alm accounted for 4.6 kills per set. Tyler (2.3 kills per set) and Sawyer Stoebner (1.1 kills per set) will be important for those positions, but Mitchell’s returning hitting prowess is limited. Senior Taylor Giblin had 45 kills last season, and she’ll likely be asked to take on a bigger role. “We have a really good group of girls and we’ve played a lot in recent years,” Giblin said. “We know each other well and hopefully that will help us get ahead this season.” Tyler and Stoebner will be expected to lead the Kernel offense. The 5-foot5 senior Tyler, who was a secondteam Class AA all-state pick in 2021, had 185 kills, 342 digs and 39 aces for the Kernels. Stoebner, a 5-foot9 junior, led the team with 77 total blocks last season and set the school record for blocks in a match with nine. She also had 91 kills.
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volleyball looks to use
“We do have good offensive threats in Lizzie and Sawyer, and that’s not going to be much of a surprise that we’re counting on them,” Thill said. “But we are developing some nice offensive threats alongside them.”
Mitchell’s defensive core will include seniors Magee and Claire Hegg and junior Paige Guthmiller. Gregg, a senior setter, will share passing duties with Tyler. Sophomores Ava Brannan and Lauren Van Overschelde are each expected to take on larger roles for Mitchell, along with freshman Addie Siemsen at setter. “We know we’re not going to be the tallest team, and we know that means we’re just going to have to work harder to keep plays alive,” Tyler said. “We have the team that can work hard and do “We’rethat.”going to have to ask some of our younger players, especially in the middle, to work as hard as they can to help us out and work hard to block at the net,” Thill added. Last season, Mitchell was the No. 11 seed in the SoDak 16 state-qualifying round, where they were swept by Harrisburg. The Kernels are trying to make the Class AA state tournament for the first time since 2018, a stated goal for the senior class. “There’s no question that’s where we want to be,” Hegg said. “We haven’t been there for a while and that would show how much we’ve improved.”Thillexpects the volleyball teams in the Sioux Falls metro to be the primary contenders in Class AA this season, led by O’Gorman, Washington, Roosevelt and Jefferson, along with Brandon Valley and Harrisburg in the Eastern South Dakota Conference, plus Pierre. n Marcus Traxler / Mitchell Republic Returning letterwinners for Mitchell volleyball include, front row from left, Alyssa McGee, Claire Hegg, Jurzee Gregg and Paige Guthmiller. Back row: Hope Flippin, Lizzie Tyler, Taylor Giblin and Sawyer Stoebner.
Class AA By
WITH YOUTH AND SMALL ROSTER, MITCHELL CHRISTIAN VOLLEYBALL WON’T FIELD A VARSITY TEAM IN 2022
and emerging faces will
By Branden Hull Mitchell Republic MITCHELL — Mitchell Christian School will not field a varsity volleyball team in 2022, according to head coach Cara VanZee.In2021, the Golden Eagles had only 13 participants in volleyball in grades 7-12, which included three graduating seniors. In an email to the Mitchell Republic, VanZee described the program’s plans as having a “gap year” in 2022.“As we have a young team, ... we only will be doing a junior high/ junior varsity schedule this year,” she said, noting the team only had one returning letterwinner set to come back in 2022. Mitchell Christian finished with a 2-19 record in 2021. In the last four seasons of high school volleyball, the Golden Eagles have been 19-64 in varsity matches. As a school, Mitchell Christian is the fifth smallest participating school in the South Dakota High School Activities Association’s 180-school membership, with an average daily membership of 22 students (based on students in grades 9-11). Of those 22 students, 10 are females. MCS is the second-smallest among SDHSAA schools that regularly field varsity athletic programs on their own (without a cooperative), with only Sunshine Bible Academy in rural Miller holding a smaller ADM (nine total students).Without volleyball, cross country will be Mitchell Christian’s only fall high school sport that it sponsors on its own. MCS students that want to play football co-op with Mitchell High School and compete with the Kernels. n
Returning letterwinners for Mitchell Christian cross country include, from left, Hannah DeLine, Silas Holdeman, Joseph Tegethoff and Nahum Anderberg.
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knowns
“She definitely wants to be out there, running competitively,” Nydam said. The Golden Eagles open the season with the Mitchell Invitational on Aug. 27 at Wild Oak Golf Course, which is a 4,000-meter tune-up race, followed by the McCook Central/Montrose race on Aug. 30 in Salem. Mitchell Christian plans to host its annual race at the Firesteel Trail Park near Lake Mitchell on Sept. 3. Nydam said some evaluation will need to be done to consider whether the race will be held competitively or if it will be a fun-run format due to some of the changes made to the trails for mountain bikes.
n Strong boys core ready to lead Mitchell Christian cross country
Championship watch highlights fall storylines to follow
Traxler Mitchell Republic MITCHELL —
By Landon Dierks Mitchell Republic MITCHELL — With the fall comes the return of high school sports, each with their storylines and questions that carry over from season to season, as well as new ones to be written over the coming weeks.From across the Mitchell Republic’s coverage region, we address some of the prominent questions ahead of the 2022 fall sports seasons, as more than two dozen area schools participate in more than a half-dozen sports. Which area football champions have the best chance to repeat? Last season, Winner (Class 11B), Platte-Geddes (Class 9AA) and Howard (Class 9A) all claimed victory at the DakotaDome and brought home state championship hardware. For Winner and PlatteGeddes, it marked two years in a row at the top. With the 2022 season underway, all three have ambitions of making another trip to Vermillion and start among the favorite in their respective classes. Winner, the perennial Class 11B powerhouse hasn’t lost since the 2019 state championship Marcus There are and unknowns for the Mitchell Christian cross country team entering 2022. The knowns are reassuring. The Golden Eagles boys, in particular, bring back their top-three runners from last season’s Class B state cross country meet squad, which finished 13th as a team. Eighth-grader Silas Holdeman finished 21st last season as a seventh-grader, while senior Nahum Anderberg and junior Joseph Tegethoff each return state-meet experience. But the rest of the varsity lineup is up for grabs, co-head coaches Jill Nydam and Julie Holdeman said, with a number of young runners that are unknowns or to be proven over the opening few weeks of the season. “We have a good base to start from. We have a lot of young kids coming up. It’s yet to be seen what exactly they can bring to the team from a competitive standpoint but we’re eager to find out,” coach Holdeman said.
Marcus Traxler / Mitchell Republic
Silas Holdeman was the potentialwork,buthe’sveryNydamthevarsityseasonduringtop-10meetEthan/Parkstonofinseason-best7-through-9.runnersfifth2021theseventh-graderfastestinstatemeetinandfinishedamongingradesHiseffort2021wasatime17:53.5attheandhadfivefinishestheregularinhisfirstseason.“TheskyisreallylimitforSilas,”said.“He’stalentedandveryyoung,ifheputsinthehehasthetobereally, really good. We know he has that in him.”Coaches Holdeman and Nydam said the goal is for the boys team to return to the state meet again, which is being held at Broadland Creek Golf Course in Huron on Oct. 22.Hannah DeLine is the lone returner for Mitchell Christian girls and she has been held back by injuries, running mostly a junior varsity lineup so far. The goal for DeLine and the Golden Eagles is for her to be competitive at the varsity level during the season.
game, and few expect the Warriors to slow down this season. Winner has been the unanimous No. 1 through two editions of the media football poll and started its 2022 campaign with a 48-12 romp over Tri-Valley, who was among the vote-getters in the preseasonPlatte-Geddespoll. held joint possession of the No. 2 spot in the Class 9AA rankings to start the season with Wall, which moved up from Class 9A. In the past two seasons under coach Bruce Hanson, the Black Panthers have established a winning culture, going 22-2 over the past two seasons. Though top talents from the back-to-back title teams departed due to graduation, returners such as Dawson Hoffman and Joey Foxley should place the Black Panthers in contention once again. However, Howard might have something to say about a Platte-Geddes three-peat, as the Tigers move up to Class 9AA in pursuit of a secondstraight title themselves. The Tigers plowed through a stacked Class 9A field to a 12-0 record last season, winning 10 of 12 games by at least 18 points, nine of 12 by at least 26 and eight of 12 games by 31 or more, including a 55-18 demolition of fellow undefeated Herreid/Selby Area in the title game. Howard began its quest for a repeat ranked No. 1, defeating No. 4 Hanson, 20-12, in both teams’ season opener. After top-four finishes last year, how do Wagner and Platte-Geddes volleyball navigate expectations in 2022? Following exceptional seasons in 2021 and with both teams returning their top talents for 2022, expectations abound for the Platte-Geddes and Wagner volleyball teams this season. Platte-Geddes earned the top overall seed in Class B last season and took third at the state tournament, finishing with a 34-5 record. Meanwhile, Wagner placed fourth in Class A with a 28-8 record. For P-G, only one of the players to see the court during the state tournament last season was a departing senior. In Wagner’s case, all seven of the primary state tournament contributors make a return this season. But even with a wealth of experience coming back, this season will be a little different for both programs. The biggest change is due to realignment, with the Black Panthers making the jump from Class B to Class A. The Red Raiders remain in Class A, but will welcome P-G into an already loaded Region 5, where the likes of Mount Vernon and Parkston also reside.With so many top programs, each with their own high expectations, only one thing is certain: Region 5A is likely to have its share of must-watch matches between now and November.
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Macon Larson, who is continuing his golf career at Dakota Wesleyan and was a consistent standout during his two years with MHS golf, and Ashton Reimnitz, Mitchell’s top individual finisher at last year’s ESD meet, have both graduated, opening the door for other experienced varsity golfers to take over the top spots. There’s plenty of reason for optimism, as Mitchell returns letterwinners Lincoln Bates — the Kernels’ top placer at the 2021 state meet — Jackson Childs, Asher Dannenbring and Noah Larson. Each has displayed the ability to compete near the top, which should make the MHS boys golf team competitive again in 2022. n
With Mitchell hosting state golf, who will step forward for the Kernel boys? The Mitchell boys golf team was in the mix with the top teams in Class AA throughout the 2021 season, posting a fourth-place finish in the Eastern South Dakota Conference and eighth-place mark at the state golf championship.
Can Kimball/White Lake complete the cross country three-peat? After capturing the program’s first-ever state cross country title in 2020, the Kimball/White Lake girls made it two in a row in Class B last year at Yankton Trail Park in Sioux Falls. Led by last year’s individual runner-up Autumn Baker, the Wildkats will look to make another run at the championship this season. Among the five competitors who factored into last season’s titlewinning team, none graduated. Christine Gaulke (11th place at the 2021 state championships) and Taya Chelmo will be seniors this year, while Autumn Baker will be a freshman and Lily Baker (21st) and Alli McCord will be eighth-graders. With all that experience coming back, KWL should find itself in the mix again as the state race moves to Huron this year.
Landon Dierks / Mitchell Republic
Kimball/White Lake runners Autumn Baker and Christine Gaulke round a corner during the Class B girls race on Oct. 23, 2021, at Yankton Trail Park, in Sioux Falls. Mitchell Republic file photo Platte-Geddes’ Aiden Bultje yells in celebration as he comes to the sideline during the Class 9AA state title game against Canistota/Freeman on Thursday, November 11, 2021, at the DakotaDome, in Vermillion.
By Marcus Traxler Mitchell Republic
The start of the high school sports season means South Dakota’s championship season is not far away from starting, with the boys golf and girls tennis championships less than six weeks away. Here’s a short look at what’s at stake for each South Dakota High School Activities Association fall championship event and who the preseason contenders are to come home on top: Class AA state boys golf, Oct. 3-4, Lakeview Golf Course, Mitchell Defending state champion Jake Olson, of Watertown, is back in 2022 after winning the individual title last season by three shots in Huron. O’Gorman, which was the team state champion last season in a playoff with Brandon Valley, is led by Radley Mauney, who was third last season in the individual competition and had a 5-under-par two-day score at the season-opening Warrior-Lynx Invite in August, winning by six shots. A Sioux Falls metro school has won every Class AA team title since 2006 and only Brandon Valley in 2014 has prevented a Sioux Falls public school or O’Gorman from winning it all. Class A state boys golf, Oct. 3-4, Meadowbrook Golf Course, Rapid City Tea Area, which has won three of the last six titles, including in 2021, and Sioux Falls Christian stand as the primary contenders on an annual basis in Class A. Chamberlain junior Dakota Munger has had a fast start to his 2022 season, winning the Madison Invitational and taking second at the Dell Rapids meet on Aug. 22. Payton Koehn is the top player for Parkston early in the season with a pair of top-10 finishes. Class A 2021 champion Kaleb Jost, of Sioux Falls, has graduated. Class A state girls tennis, Oct. 3-4, Sioux Park, Rapid City It might be the most interesting of the fall state events, with three-time defending champions Mitchell no longer there to loom over the state competition. Yankton was third last season in the team scoring and bring back the Krajewski sisters — Nora and Sabrina, both freshmen — to put the Gazelles in a prominent role. Rapid City Christian, which took second, had its two main seniors Ella Hancock and Hannah Beckloff graduate. Hancock won the No. 1 singles competition and shared the top honors at No. 1 doubles with Beckloff. Class AA state girls tennis, Oct. 6-7, Sioux Park, Rapid City Rapid City Stevens helped end the dominance of Sioux Falls Lincoln in South Dakota girls tennis, earning the state championship for the first time since 2006. Harrisburg was second and the Patriots were third, marking the first time since 2015 that Lincoln was not a top-two finisher. Avery Summers, the state champion at No. 1 singles last season for Sioux Falls Jefferson, is back for her junior season. Mitchell will learn where it stands when it faces Rapid City Stevens in the Rapid City Invitational Aug. 26-27, and will host Sioux Falls Lincoln on Sept. 13. The Kernels already defeated Harrisburg, 7-2, in an Aug. 18 dual in Mitchell. State soccer championships, Oct. 15, Tea Area High School There likely will not be the drama from 2021 repeated in Class AA soccer anytime soon, as 10th-seeded Sioux Falls Roosevelt allowed only one goal in four state tournament games to claim the state title over No. 4-seeded Rapid City Stevens, 2-1. In the eight years of sanctioned Class AA girls soccer, there have been seven different state champions. In Class A, the West Central girls have won five of the last six state championships and played Tea Area for the title four times in that span, as the Titans look to play the state final on their home field. The Trojans won last year, 2-1. For the last four seasons, Sioux Falls Christian and Tea Area have played for the Class A state boys soccer title, with the Chargers winning 3-2 last season, completing an undefeated season and outscoring opponents 87-12. Tea Area has made the last six Class A championship games, winning three titles in a row from 2017 to 2019. In Class AA, Yankton won in 2021 by a 1-0 score. It marks the fifth time in the last eight seasons that the Class AA boys title game has been a shutout. State cross country meet, Oct. 22, Broadland Creek Golf Course, Huron A favorite course of many cross country runners and coaches returns as the host site for South Dakota’s fall running finale. On the boys side, all three individual champions from last year are set to defend their titles, including Rapid City Stevens’ Simeon Birnbaum, Belle Fourche’s Sawyer Clarkson and Bison’s Lane Krautschun. In the girls races, Sioux Falls O’Gorman’s Alea Hardie won the Class AA meet and is off to the University of Nebraska, while freshmen Ellie Maddox, of Sioux Falls Christian, and Northwestern’s Ella Boekelheide return to race in Class A and Class B, respectively. State competitive cheer and dance competition, Oct. 21-22, Civic Arena, Watertown In Class A, the 15-time reigning cheer champions from Sioux Valley loom over the competition heading into 2022, while Dakota Valley has won 12 consecutive state dance championships, holding off Beresford by a half-point in 2021. In Class AA, Sioux Falls O’Gorman has scored a top-two finish in the state cheer competition in each of the last five years, including winning the state title last season, while Brandon Valley ended Sioux Falls Washington’s six-year run as state champions in the competitive dance arena. SoDak 16 volleyball state-qualifying round, Nov. 8 (Class A and B) and Nov. 10 (Class AA), various sites There were only two upsets by seed in the 2021 SoDak 16, with No. 10 Burke in Class B and No. 12 Parkston in Class A picking up the only lower-seeded victories. Class AA has been stingiest about upsets, with just two lower-seeded teams winning in the first five years of the format. In Class A, a lot of attention will be paid to Region 5A’s two representatives, which were Parkston and Wagner last season, with both teams advancing. Both should be in the mix this season, along with Platte-Geddes, which was the No. 1 seed in Class B last season, while Hanson, Kimball/White Lake, Mount Vernon/Plankinton and Sanborn Central/ Woonsocket have strong programs, as well. State football championships, Nov. 10-12, DakotaDome It is almost a certainty that there will be at least one undefeated team arriving at the DakotaDome for the state football championships again this year. Since 2017, there have been 21 championship games featuring at least one undefeated team, including six with both teams undefeated. In the other 15 games, 10 have been won by the undefeated team, closing out their perfect season with the title, while five have been won by the team that took a loss earlier in the year. (That list of state champions and perfect season spoilers includes 2017 BrittonHecla, 2019 and 2020 Canistota/Freeman, along with 2020 and 2021 Pierre.) State volleyball championships, Nov. 17-19, Sioux Falls All three state volleyball tournaments are at the Premier Center in Sioux Falls this year, which is a great thrill for fans. O’Gorman enters the new volleyball season seeking a three-peat in Class AA, something that hasn’t been done in South Dakota’s largest class since the Knights won Class A in 1987, 1988 and 1989. A team familiar with consecutive titles is Sioux Falls Christian, which has won five straight in Class A and has 10 championships in the last 11 seasons dating back to 2010. All eyes will be on Warner in Class B after the Monarchs’ 2021 championship, while wondering if Northwestern will be there too. The Wildcats missed out on the 2021 state tournament, but either Northwestern or Warner has played in every Class B title match since fall 2002. n
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FALL STATE EVENT PREVIEW: MITCHELL TO HOST AA BOYS GOLF IN OCTOBER
Coach’s comments: We have a lot of upperclassmen coming back, that fact alone should transfer to winning games if they work hard in the off-season. The players need to be dedicated to each other, the school, the team, and themselves. We have the potential and talent to have a great year, now we just need to put in the work. We need to be more disciplined in 2022 and take care of the little things. All of those little things add up to winning games and championships.
Burke Coach: Mike Sebern Conference: Great Plains Class: 9A Record last year: 5-4 Letterwinners returning: Four Top returnees: Jaden Swan, SR, OL/DL, 6-2, 230; Dawson York, JR, OL/DL, 6-1, 200; Sawyer Tietgen, SR, RB/DB, 5-7, 145; Reed Benter, JR, QB/ DB, 6-3, 165; Gentry Bartling, SO, FB/LB, 6-1, 160; Ira Burroughs, SR, RB/DB, 5-8, 145 Top newcomers: Kaleb Schonebaum, SO, OL/ LB, 5-10, 170; Karson Longe, SO, TE/LB, 6-0, 175; Breven Bolander, SO, TE/LB, 6-1, 150; Carson Peck, JR, OL/LB, 6-0, 150; Quinten Bull, SO, OL/ DL, 6-3, 215 Coach’s comments: We will be inexperienced this season, so we will need to learn on the fly. We also have low numbers, so the health of our team will be important as we go through the year.
mitchellrepublic.com mitchell republic, mitchell, S.D. | SaturDay, auguSt 27, 2022 | Fall Sports Preview | 11 FROM
By Mitchell Republic
Canistota Coach: James Strang Conference: Cornbelt Class: 9A Record last year: 7-5, playing as Canistota/ Freeman Letterwinners returning: 20 Top returnees: Tage Ortman, JR, QB/DB, 6-0, 165; Tye Merrill, SR, WR/DB, 5-7, 170; Will Ortman, SR, QB/DB, 6-0, 160; Brandon Kjetland, JR, OL/DL, 6-4, 260; Austin Matthaei, SR, OL/DL, 5-9, 220; Noah Kleinsasser, SR, RB/LB, 5-11, 185; Cayden Scott, JR, FB/LB, 5-11, 195; Trace Ortman, SR, OL/DL, 6-0, 210; Brady Scott, SO, QB/DB, 6-1, 180 Top newcomers: Deshon Thompson, SR, TE/ DL, 6-1, 225; Camrin Bootsma-Gibson, JR, OL/DL, 5-10, 260; Maison Montgomery, SR, OL/DL, 5-11, 190; Jesse Marquardt, JR, OL/DL, 5-10, 215; Joseph Bond, JR, TE/LB, 5-8, 165; Levi Schroeder, SO, FB/ LB, 5-10, 170; Jackson Brown, JR, OL/DL, 6-3, 190 Coach’s comments: We have to make plays. A year ago, we didn’t when it was necessary. Defensively, we need to be a stronger tackling team and offensively, we have to establish a better line of scrimmage to create opportunities rushing and receiving. We have a large group of upperclassmen that came up short of a title a year ago so they are hungry to get back.
Avon Coach: Tom Culver Conference: Great Plains Class: 9B Record last year: 10-1 Letterwinners returning: 22 Top returnees: Brady Bierema, SR, RB/DB, 5-9, 161; Cody Soukup, SR, TE/DE, 6-2, 193; Kley Heumiller, SR, OG/DE, 6-3, 210; Tyler Tjeerdsma, JR, RB/DB, 5-10, 150; Landon Mudder, SO, FB/LB, 5-6, 175; Jaden Stahl, SR, RB/DB, 5-9, 140; Riley DeJong, SR, OG/DT, 6-4, 210; Landon Thury, JR, C/ DT, 6-3, 185; Caleb Wallinga, JR, OG/DT, 6-2, 200 Top newcomers: Paxton Bierema, JR, QB/ DB, 5-11, 157; Devin Rucktaeschel, SO, OG/DT, 5-11, 226; Al-Shamon Gunter, FR, OG/DE, 6-4, 205; Cade Faulkner, SR, QB/DB, 6-0, 155; Noah Watchorn, JR, RB/DB, 5-10, 180; Aziah Meyer, SO, RB/LB, 6-1, 189; Terran Talsma, JR, TE/DE, 6-5, 203; Trace Pelton, JR, TE/DE, 6-3, 168; Randall Powers, FR, C/DT, 6-0, 260 Coach’s comments: We will need our line to lead the way in the beginning of the season. The two things I like best about our team is the number of kids that have quality varsity experience from last season, and they have bought into commitment to running the football.
Chamberlain Coach: Jeff Rademacher Class: 11A Record last year: 2-7 Key players: Bryce Reuer, JR, RB/LB, 5-10, 155; Devyn Anderson, JR, WR/DB, 5-11, 150; Eli Donovan, SO, WR/DB, 6-0, 130; Jansen Konechne, SR, WR/DB, 5-11, 170; Cruz Soulek, JR, QB/S, 6-3, 190; Dusty Rose, SO, WR/DL, 6-1, 180; Peyton Haugen, SO, WR/DB, 5-7, 125; Marcelo Martinez, JR, RB/LB, 6-1, 200; Sawyer Donovan, JR, WR/DB, 6-0, 150; River Niewenhuis, SO, RB/WR, 6-0, 150; CJ Yost, SR, RB/DB, 6-2, 183; Levi Miller, JR, WR/ DB, 5-10, 159; Mario Olivia-Gayton, SO, WR/DB, 5-6, 135; Swade Reis, SR, WR/DL, 6-2, 190; Noah Hutmacher, SR, FB/LB, 6-4, 239; Ty Graesser, SR, FB/DB, 6-1, 180; Albert Borah, JR, DT/OL, 5-10, 260; Conner Hickey, JR, OL/DL, 6-3, 210; Rayden Haak, JR, OL/DL, 6-0, 244; Peyton Hora, JR, OL/ DL, 6-0, 250; Canyon Burkard, JR, OL/DL, 6-6, 305; Prestyn Haugen, SO, WR/DB, 5-9, 134 Colome Coach: Chase Hrabanek Conference: Great Plains Class: 9B Record last year: 1-7 Key players: Jordyn Harter, JR, RB/S, 5-5, 135; Eli Vobr, SO, QB/S, 6-0, 165; Taitin Ringing Shield, SR, TE/DL, 5-10, 185; Kash Heath, SR, RB/LB, 6-0, 175; Kaden Pechota, SR, RB/LB, 5-9, 175; William Looking Cloud, SR, TE/DL, 5-9, 210; Klayton Heath, JR, OL/DL, 6-0, 170; Alec Thieman, SR, TE/ DL, 6-2, 180; Aidan Muller, SR, OL/DL, 6-2, 225; Sully Shippy, SR, OL/DL, 5-8, 230; Jack Anderson, JR, OL/DL, 6-2, 225; Jordan Musser, JR, OL/DL, 6-2, 220 Corsica-Stickney Coach: Gregg Olawsky Conference: Great Plains Class: 9B Record last year: 2-6 Key players: Carter Wright, JR, RB/LB, 6-1, 170; Shad Bosma, SR, QB/DB, 6-1, 170; Tyson Wentland, SO, TE/DE, 6-4, 225; Driftin Mulder, SO, QB/DB, 5-11, 145; Caden Baumiller, SO, RB/LB, 5-10, 135; Cody Keizer, SO, RB/DB, 5-6, 150; Caleb Baumiller, JR, OL/DL, 5-11, 200; Lucas Krogstad, SR, OL/DL, 6-0, 210; Austin Krogstad, JR, OL/DL, 6-8, 275; Kayden Muck, SR, OL/DL, 5-11, 320; Brock Hinker, SO, TE/DE, 6-1, 160; Tate Tolsma, SO, RB/LB, 6-0, 155; Jarrett Olawsky, SO, OL/ DL, 5-11, 200; Levi VanZee, JR, OL/DL, 5-9, 205; Waylon Bolle, FR, RB/LB, 6-0, 165 Freeman/Marion/Freeman Academy Coach: Dustin Tschetter Conference: Great Plains Class: 9AA; first year as a program Key players: Ethan Balvin, SR, OG/LB, 6-1, 175; Christoper Aasen, SO, WR/LB, 5-11, 155; Maddox Kihne, SR, RB/DB, 5-9, 160; Matt Hagen, SR, WR/ DB, 6-1, 165; Dominic Sperling, SO, RB/LB, 5-8, 155; Rocky Ammann, JR, WR/DB, 6-0, 160; Riley Tschetter, FR, QB/DB, 5-9, 165; Connor Epp, SR, WR/DB, 6-0, 170; Taylor Goodwin, FR, C/LB, 5-8, 155; Evan Scharberg, JR, TE/DL, 6-0, 205; Harley Crooks, JR, OG/DL, 6-1, 175; Sawyer Wipf, SO, C/ DL, 5-11, 180; Jayden Jacobsen, SR, WR/DB, 6-3, 180; Dillon Podzimek, JR, TE/DL, 6-2, 160; Jon Law, SR, OG/DL, 6-5, 255; Zac Sayler, SR, OG/DL, 6-0, 160; Devin Vietor, SR, OG/DL, 6-0, 230 Coach’s comments: We’re a young team and we have athletic players. But we have a good group of kids working together so far.
SUPPORTIVE BUSINESSES! GOOD LUCK PARKSTON 115 South First Street Parkston, SD 605-928-338157366 GODFATHER'SAMPRIDE/PIZZA 905 West SD Highway 44 Parkston, SD 605-928-7543 114 North First Street Parkston, SD 605-928-7958 Also located in Corsica BRALEY LAW OFFICE 114 North First Street Parkston, SD 605-928-7958 Also located in Corsica. 155 West 1st St. Dimock, www.dimockdairy.com605-928-3833SD MON-FRI 8:00AM-6:30PM SAT 8:00AM-4:00PM Insurance & Real estate Proud ParkstonEthansinceSupporters1982.227-4215928-7956 GOOD LUCK! S & T Logistics,TruckingLLC 803 South Ben Street Parkston, SD Office 605-928-770 Fax 605-928-773 Cell 605-770-6097 INSURANCEWENZELAGENCY 710 W. 1-800-762-1239605-928-3063Parkston,AshSD Sales And Service For Individuals And Groups FROM THESE SUPPORTIVE BUSINESSES! GOOD LUCK MT VERNON Farmers Elevator Co. of Mt. Vernon We Buy, Sell & Store Grain “Top Prices Grinding-Mixing-FertilizersPaid”&ServicesCall256-5233or236-5222LynnDeinert,Mgr.,Mt.Vernon,SDMt.24699Brian605-236-5755Dodd,Owner395thAve.,Vernon 001622884r1 Serving Mitchell and the Surrounding Area for over 20 years (605) 996-8648 Mount Vernon Gas & Oil Tires, Batteries, Hardware, Minor Repairs, Bradford Built & Hillsboro Truck Beds Kim & Tammy Lorang, 605-236-5369owners Full Service Gas & Fuel Bulk Deliveries GOOD LUCK MONTROSEMCCOOK/ Andy Kinzley Laura Boecker 500 North Main • Salem, SD 605-425-2621 FUNERALKINZLEYHOME Serving Alexandria, Canova Center, Clayton, Emer y, Fulton, Salem, Spencer and Winfred Communications, Inc. TrioTel www.triotel.net Serving Fulton,Canova,Alexandria,Center,Clayton,Emery,Junius,Salem,Spencer&Winfred Serving Alexandria, Canova, Center, Clayton, Emer y, Fulton, Salem, Spencer, and Winfred Communications, Inc. TrioTel R www.triotel.net FROM THESE SUPPORTIVE BUSINESSES! AREA FOOTBALL PREVIEW CAPSULES AREA FOOTBALL: Page 12 Mitchell Republic file photo Bridgewater-Emery/Ethan’s Sam Hofer carries the football during the Class 11B state title game against Winner on Thursday, November 11, 2021, at the DakotaDome, in Vermillion.
Bridgewater-Emery/Ethan Coach: Jeff VanLeur Conference: Big East Class: 11B Record last year: 8-4, Class 11B runner-up Key players: Sam Hofer, SR, QB/DB, 6-0, 175; Riley Endres, SR, RB/DB, 6-0, 187; Taite Klumb, JR, RB/DB, 6-3, 170; Camdyn Stotereau, JR, TE/ LB, 6-2, 185; Sutton Arend, SR, WR/DB, 6-4, 190; Jaden Eddy, SR, TE/LB, 6-2, 165; Drake Gustafson, JR, WR/DB, 6-3, 183; Aguer Van Sickle, SR, TE/ DE, 6-4, 240; Landon Hofer, SR, RB/DB, 6-0, 170; Kory Storm, SR, RB/LB, 5-11, 170; Korbyn Kayser, JR, OT/DT, 6-2, 190; Wyatt Sinkie, SR, OT/DT, 6-2, 187; Sage Mendoza, JR, OG/DT, 5-10, 230; Brody Riggs, SR, C/DT, 6-3, 230; Nathan Weber, SR, OT/DT, 6-0, 200; Carter Hofer, JR, OG/DE, 6-0, 250; Aaron Horvath, SR, OT/DT, 6-0, 200; Kody Klumb, SR, OT/LB, 6-0, 200 Bon Homme Coach: Byron Pudwill Conference: Missouri Valley Class: 9AA Record last year: 3-6 Letterwinners returning: 13 Top returnees: Riley Rothschadl, SR, QB/DB, 6-1, 190; Logan Winckler, SR, WR/DB, 5-11, 170; Evan Ulmer, JR, WR/DB, 5-11, 165; Cayden Himes, SR, TE/DL, 6-0, 210; Easton Mudder, JR, WR/DB, 6-0, 160; Chapin Cooper, JR, RB/LB, 5-10, 170; Isaac Crownover, SR, LB/RB, 6-1, 205; Jackson Caba, JR, RB/LB, 5-11, 160; Landon Bares, JR, TE/DB, 6-2, 175; Keegan Ashes, JR, OL/DL, 6-0, 205; Wesley Kaul, SR, TE/DB, 5-9, 170; Landon Smith, SR, OL/ LB, 6-1, 175; Jacob Cuka, JR, OL/DL, 6-0, 200 Top newcomers: Landon Schmidt, SO, WR/ DB, 6-1, 160; Kolton Vlcek, SO, OL/DL, 6-0, 170; Tristan Simek, JR, OL/DL, 6-0, 285; Cameron Cooper, SO, OL/DL, 5-9, 135; Jackson Kaul, SO, RB/ DB, 5-8, 135; Rhett Connors, JR, OL/DL, 5-8, 230
The following information was provided by the coaches of the respective teams or compiled by the Mitchell Republic’s staff.
Gregory Coach: Mike Murray Conference: Missouri Valley Class: 9A Record last year: 6-4 Letterwinners returning: 13 Key players: Rylan Peck, JR, QB/LB, 6-0, 165; Eli Fogel, SR, TE/DE, 6-0, 170; Owen Hansen, SR, RB/LB, 5-7, 145; Gannon Thomas, JR, RB/LB, 5-11, 175; Kade Stukel, SR, RB/S, 5-9, 165; Trey Murray, JR, FB/LB, 5-9, 175; Jaden Graber, SR, C/DL, 5-9, 195; Nathan Fortuna, JR, OG/DL, 5-8, 195; Kade Braun, JR, WR/TE, 6-1, 180 Coach’s comments: The keys to a successful season are staying healthy and developing the younger players. This year’s team has been well THESE
Coach’s comments: This team’s key to success is being able to stay healthy throughout the season. Every opponent is well-coached and disciplined, so we’ll have to be mentally and physically focused on being in the moment. As a team putting players in a position to be successful, perfecting the fundamentals, improving communication, and playing as a team will be critical throughout the season.
motivated and are attending individual camps and team camps. They are putting in the hours in the weight room. The biggest challenges for the season are playing a tough schedule, and developing talented individuals into a cohesive team.
Jim River Coach: Ryan Robb Conference: Southeast South Dakota Class: 11B Record last year: 3-5 Letterwinners returning: 14 Top returnees: Trenten Skorepa, SR, OL/DL, 6-4, 235; Tyrus Bietz, SR, OL/LB, 6-0, 195; Stephen Johnson, SR, RB/LB, 6-2, 190; Blake Rames, SR, OL/DL, 6-4, 220; Ajay Herrboldt, SR, RB/LB, 6-0, 170; Cole Friederich, SR, WR/DB, 6-1, 170; Kadeyn Ulmer, SR, QB/DB, 6-1, 175; Brayden Sattler, SR, RB/DB, 6-0, 160; Logan Sayler, JR, RB/LB, 6-0, 165; Cody Munkvold, SR, WR/DL, 6-5, 175; Kalob Maruska, JR, OL/DL, 5-10, 200; Tate Plooster, SO, OL/DL, 6-3, 230; Jayce Walloch, JR, FB/LB, 5-10, 145; Maveric Smith, SR, WR/DB, 5-10, 155 Top newcomers: Hunter Yosten, FR, OL/DL, 6-0, 230; Trent Guthmiller, SO, RB/LB, 6-0, 170; Spencer Kjellerson, JR, OL/DL, 6-2, 240; Ashton Dennis, SO, QB/DB, 6-1, 150; Bryce Sattler, SO, WR/DB, 5-10, 135; Izayah Ulmer, FR, QB/DB, 5-10, 135 Kimball/White Lake Coach: Ryan Skluzak Conference: Missouri Valley Class: 9AA Record last year: 2-7 Key players: Carter Lenz, SR, QB/CB, 6-0, 160; Johnny Lenz, FR, RB/LB, 5-7, 140; Nathan Mohnen, SO, WR/CB, 6-1, 155; Park Sinclair, SO, QB/CB, 6-1, 155; Blake Leiferman, JR, TE/DE, 6-5, 190; Daniel Leiferman, SO, WR/CB, 5-10, 155; Iden Myers, SO, RB/LB, 5-7, 150; Lantz Bass, JR, WR/ CB, 5-9, 135; Jayden Kahler, SR, FB/LB, 5-9, 205; Beau Kirsch, SR, WR/CB, 6-1, 160; Lucas Lenz, SO, TE/DE, 5-10, 170; Braxton Pulse, JR, WR/CB, 6-3, 165; Hudson Heath, JR, OL/DL, 6-1, 205; Jaxon Christensen, SR, OL/LB, 6-2, 230; Aiden Novak, SO, OL/DL, 6-3, 290; Tatum Tyrrell, JR, OL/DL, 5-9, 220; Jaxon Pursell, SR, OL/DL, 6-3, 235; Emmanuel Deffenbaugh, JR, OL/DL, 6-1, 295
Hanson Coach: Jim Haskamp Conference: Cornbelt Class: 9AA Record last year: 8-2 Letterwinners returning: 15 Key players: Hadley Wallace, SR, RB/LB, 5-11, 200; Jackson Jarding, SR, RB/DB, 5-10, 180; Brock Tuttle, JR, FB/LB, 5-11, 215; Riley Haynes, SR, E/ DL, 6-1, 190; Ethan Cheeseman, SR, E/DB, 6-5, 200; Isayah Price, JR, OL/DL, 6-5, 250; Hayden Schroeder, JR, OL/DL, 5-10, 195; Jayce Slaba, JR, QB/DB, 5-11, 145. Coach’s comments: Senior leadership, staying healthy and controlling the ball on offense will be important to our season. I like our experience, athleticism and team speed on our roster this season. We don’t have a game on our schedule that can be overlooked as every opponent has solid traditions.
Coach: Matt Grave Conference: Missouri Valley Class: 9AA Record last year: 8-3 Letterwinners returning: 13 Top returnees: Brayden Jervik, JR, RB/LB, 5-7, 200; Kaleb Weber, SR, QB/DB, 6-0, 165; Luke Bormann, JR, RB/DB, 5-9, 145; Preston Mattheis, SR, OL/DL, 5-11, 295; Will Jodozi, JR, OL/DL, 6-2, 215; Sam Benson, SR, RB/DB, 5-8, 140 Top newcomers: Jesse Newton, SR, OL/DB, 5-11, 175; Porter Neugebauer, SR, OL/DL, 5-8, 175; Kolter Kramer, SO, RB/DB, 5-9, 185; Cade Thuringer, SR, RB/DB, 6-0, 170; Maddux Brissette, JR, OL/DL, 6-0, 185; Jaron Nesheim, JR, RB/LB, 6-0, 185; Cael Ryther, SR, OL/DL, 5-10, 175
Howard Coach: Pat Ruml Conference: Cornbelt Class: 9AA Record last year: 12-0, state champions in Class 9A Letterwinners returning: 22 Key players: Taiden Hoyer, JR, QB/S, 6-0, 195; Kaden Hofer, SR, OL/LB, 5-10, 205; Karsten Hamilton, SR, RB/CB, 5-9, 160; Atticus Darnell, SR, TE/DE, 6-1, 205; Griffin Clubb, SR, RB/LB, 6-2, 205; Ryder Erickson, SR, OL/DL, 5-9, 190; Karsyn Feldhaus, JR, FB/CB, 5-9, 150; Jack Neises, SR, OL/LB, 5-8, 165 Top newcomers: Luke Koepsell, SO, TE/DE, 6-3, 195; Gabe Turpin, SR, OL/DL, 5-11, 245 Coach’s comments: I like that we have a lot of experience coming back and a lot of guys who were able to get significant amounts of playing time last year. Our whole offensive and defensive lines are back besides one player, so we should be very good in the trenches. We have to continue to be physical every game.
12 | Fall Sports Preview | Saturday, auguSt 27, 2022 | Mitchell republic, Mitchell, S.d Mitchellrepublic.coM GOOD LUCK PLATTE/GEDDES 218 Main Ave., Geddes, SD 605-337-3333 www.bankwest-sd.bank GOOD LUCK THIS SEASON! Member FDIC D & J TRUCK LINE Dave & Josh Bultsma Platte, SD 605-680-2763605-680-1700 Local or long distance hauling LIVESTOCK HAULING Bob & Gus Middendorp 12 E. 7th Street Platte, SD 605-337-3009 Farming is your livelihood, and it’s our business to help protect that. NiewenhuisRocky 285 Main Street Corsica, SD 57328 605-946-5606 @KirwanDesign605-830-0300onFacebook Residential & CommeRCial landsCape design & installation iRRigation systems ChemiCal lawn CaRe mowing & snow Removal 521 Main Street - Platte605-337-2319MOVIETIMESFriday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday evenings at 7:30 LYRIC THEATRE Meyerink Farm Service www.meyerinkfs.com605-337-2621 102 1st Street NE Wessington Springs, SD 605-539-1040 ROLLINGVETERINARYHILLSCLINIC Ry’s AutomotiveService West Hwy 44 Platte 337-3152 Rylan Dyk, Master Mechanic Air Conditioners Heat Pumps GeothermalFurnacesSystemInstallationSeversonHeating&Air 120 Main St, Platte SD 605-337-2100 200 North Main St Platte, SD 605-337-3643 TURNIS FARM SERVICES FROM THESE SUPPORTIVE BUSINESSES! FROM THESE SUPPORTIVE BUSINESSES! GOOD LUCK PLANKINTON 24/7 Nursing BeauticianOn-siteActivitiesDailyServicesSocialStaff TherapyOutpatientInpatientDietsTherapeuticand • Certified&MedicareMedicaid Call today to schedule a tour! 605-249-2216 Aurora Brule Care & Rehab 408 S Johnston St., White Lake, SD Clint Bultsma 100 East 3rd St Plankinton,605-942-7200SD Farmers Elevator Co. of Mt. Vernon We Buy, Sell & Store Grain “Top Prices Grinding-Mixing-FertilizersPaid”&ServicesCall256-5233or236-5222LynnDeinert,Mgr.,Mt.Vernon,SD Team!Go FROM THESE SUPPORTIVE BUSINESSES! GOOD LUCK SANBORN 39758 SD Hwy 34 Woonsocket, SD 605-796-444857385 Artesian Vet Clinic, Inc. 40949 SD Highway 34 Artesian, SD 605-527-2648 www.dumontboutique.com WOMEN’S AND KIDS CLOTHING ACCESSORIES.ANDHEGG INSURANCE 111 S. Dumont Ave Woonsocket, SD 57385 Jim, Loree & Susan 866-546605-796-4471TELEPHONEHEGG AREA FOOTBALL: Page 13 AREA FOOTBALL From Page 11 Mitchell Republic file photo Hanson’s Ethan Cheeseman celebrates scoring a touchdown off an interception with teammates, including Hadley Wallace (24), during the first half of a game against Irene-Wakonda on Friday, September 3, 2021, in Alexandria.
Lyman Coach: Mike Kieffer Conference: Western Great Plains Class: 9A Record last year: 8-2 Key players: Cooper Long, SR, WR/DB, 6-3, 170; Brayden Oldenkamp, SO, WR/DB, 5-8, 130; Easton Robbins, JR, WR/DB, 5-8, 140; Teagan Gourneau, SR, QB/LB, 6-0, 185; Aaron Erikson, JR, TE/DE, 6-0, 160; Wiley Elwood, SO, RB/LB, 5-8, 150; Kellen Griffith, JR, RB/LB, 5-8, 155; Jake Millard, JR, K, 6-2, 160; Rory McManus, JR, RB/LB, 6-1, 185; Tance Wagner, SR, RB/DE, 6-2, 175; Ryker Choal, SR, TE/DE, 6-0, 170; Jonathan Herman, JR, WR/DB, 5-9, 140; Gunner Johnson, SR, OL/DL, 6-0, 195; Issac McManigal, JR, OL/DL, 5-10, 180; Damian Abrahamson, SR, OL/DL, 6-1, 190; Dalton Moore, SR, OL/DL, 6-3, 265; Louie Thiry, JR, OL/ DL, 6-1, 230 McCook Central/Montrose Coach: Shawn Flanagan Conference: Big East Class: 11B Record last year: 7-3 Key players: Weston Remmers, SO, WR/LB, 6-1, 180; Boston Katzer, SO, QB/DB, 6-3, 180; Jackson Remmers, JR, RB/LB, 6-1, 180; Jackson Grady, SR, WR/DT, 6-1, 180; Ty Doblar, JR, WR/LB, 6-0, 180; Owen Alley, JR, S/QB, 6-1, 175; Will Cleveland, SR, WR/DB, 5-10, 170; Connor McGuire, JR, DB/ WR, 5-11, 170; Ty Morrison, JR, DB/WR, 5-10, 160; Aiden Schaefer, SR, LB/RB, 5-8, 175; Carter Randall, JR, LB/TE, 5-9, 175; Will Rotert, JR, OL/ DL, 5-8, 190; Austin Hoiten, SR, DT/OL, 6-1, 230; Carter Jandl, JR, DL/OL, 6-1, 175; Nathan Krier, SR, OL/DL, 5-9, 200; Jake VanHout, SR, OL/DL, 6-3, 280; Brock Nordlund, SR, OL/DL, 5-11, 250; Paul Watkins, SR, WR/DB, 5-9, 150; Kade Grocott, JR, DL/TE, 6-0, 220 Mount Vernon/Plankinton Coach: Brent Olson Conference: Southeast South Dakota Class: 11B Record last year: 7-2 Top returnees: Isaiah Olson, SO, QB/DB, 5-8, 145; Blaine Bohr, JR, RB/DB, 6-1, 165; Austin Hauge, SR, RB/DB, 5-7, 150; Cain Tobin, JR, RB/ LB, 5-9, 160; Zach Baker, JR, RB/DB, 5-9, 160; Reed Rus, SR, QB/LB, 6-4, 205; Christopher Mayer, SR, RB/DB, 5-11, 180; Drew Gerlach, SR, RB/DB, 5-9, 155; Brady Fox, SO, RB/LB, 5-9, 205; Caden Barnes, SO, WR/DB, 5-10, 150; Spencer Frost, JR, RB/DB, 5-9, 140; Tate Hegg, SO, OL/ LB, 5-9, 150; Evan Bultsma, JR, OL/DL, 6-5, 220; Daniel Laufman, SR, OL/DL, 6-1, 220; Mason Hetland, SR, C/DL, 6-3, 240; Rylan Bush, SR, OL/ LB, 6-0, 185; Trevor Sweet, JR, OL, 6-1, 165; Jack Larsch, SO, OL/DL, 6-0, 160; Jonathon Jones, SO, OL/DL, 6-0, 175; Turner Harris, SR, OG/DT, 6-0, 220; Trayton Moore, SO, OL/DL, 6-2, 240; Jordan Stoltz, SR, WR/DB, 6-8, 175 Parkston
state title game against Bridgewater-Emery/Ethan on
Top newcomers: Trevor Rolland, SR, TE/LB, 5-11, 168; Oakley Kott, SR, RB/LB, 5-11, 165; Tanner Dyk, JR, WR/CB, 6-1, 150; Jack Ringling, JR, OL/LB, 5-11, 205; Caleb Fite, SR, OL/DL, 5-10, 196; Parker Bailey, JR, QB/CB, 5-7, 142; Kasen Konstanz, JR, RB/LB, 5-7, 135; Skyler Hanten, JR, TE/DE, 6-2, 160; Emmitt Boltjes, JR, C/DL, 5-11, 260 Coach’s comments: Staying healthy is always key, as last year we had our share of injuries. We want to continue our emphasis on creating turnovers, as we have created 72 over the past two years. We are replacing a lot of quality players that graduated but our returning starters are very good athletes and the good thing about all our injuries last year is that a bunch of kids got quality playing time in big games. The buy-in on continuing the culture that we have created the past three seasons and the commitment to the offseason and weight room has been the best since I started coaching.
Andes Central/Dakota Christian Coach: Tracey Hopkins Region: 5A Record last year: 7-21 Letterwinners returning: Four Key players: Claire Johnson, JR, OH/DS, 5-10; Abigail Svatos, JR, MH, 5-10; Ona’ka Doren, JR, S, 5-3; Josie Brouwer, SO, S/OH, 5-5; Nevaeh Morgan, JR, OH/DS, 5-3; Hannah Tronvold, JR, DS/ OH, 5-9; Aubrey Gray, JR, OH/DS, 5-7 Coach’s comments: These girls have put in some extra hard work this summer and are excited to put it to use. This team will have to look for new leadership this season, as we have a very young team with no seniors. I have confidence that these girls will be able to step up to the plate and be a very competitive team.
Avon Coach: Lindsey Fathke Conference: Great Plains Region: 5B Record last year: 19-11
Platte-Geddes Coach: Bruce Hanson Conference: Missouri Valley Class: 9AA Record last year: 10-2, Class 9AA champions
By Mitchell Republic
TDAACDC Coach: Kendall Strand Conference: Southeast South Dakota Class: 11B Record last year: 3-5 Top returnees: Hunter Loeffler, SO, RB/S, 5-9, 150; Gunner Stranger, SO, RB/CB, 5-8, 150; Isaac Wunder, SO, QB/DE, 6-0, 155; Mason Reiner, JR, QB/S, 5-9, 155; Braden Fink, JR, WR/CB, 5-11, 155; Sabas DeHaan, SO, RB/S, 5-7, 140; Brayden Ziegler, SO, WR/CB, 5-10, 155; Carlin Hopkins, JR, WR/CB, 5-9, 150; Jeff Schnabel, SR, FB/LB, 5-9, 175; Garrett Morris, SO, WR/DB, 5-8, 150; Garth Maas, SO, FB/LB, 5-10, 170; Reegan Loneman, SO, OT/DL, 5-11, 180; Cole Bergin, JR, OT/DT, 5-11, 175; Thomas Stremick, SO, C/DL, 5-9, 220; AJ Johnson, SO, OT/DE, 6-0, 175; Dalton Westendorf, SO, OG/DT, 6-0, 230; Ethan Goehring, JR, C/LB, 6-0, 210; Ty Garcia, SO, OT/DL, 6-4, 270; Daniel Huether, JR, OL/LB, 5-10, 175; Payton Westendorf, SO, OG/DT, 6-0, 230; Noah Hotchkiss, SO, OL/DL, 5-9, 220; Trey Breuer, SO, TE/DL, 5-9, 175; Louis Lippert, SR, RB/CB, 5-9, 150; Riley Spaans, SO, TE/ DE, 6-0, 170 Wagner Coach: Jeff Podzimek Conference: Southeast South Dakota Class: 11B Record last year: 6-4 Key players: Hunter Lhotak, SO, RB/LB, 5-9, 160; Riley Roberts, JR, WR/LB, 6-0, 160; Chris Nelson, SR, QB/DB, 5-11, 170; Glenn Cournoyer, SR, WR/DB, 5-11, 155; Karstyn Lhotak, JR, WR/LB, 5-6, 125; Jhett Breen, JR, RB/DB, 5-9, 160; Daniel Soukup, JR, WR/LB, 5-9, 145; Bain Kuhlman, JR, TE/LB, 5-11, 180; Kahle Hill, SO, OL/LB, 5-10, 160; Tyler Aune, SO, OL/DL, 6-0, 210; Jace Kuhlman, JR, OL/LB, 5-9, 170; Parker Petry, SO, OL/DL, 6-2, 230; Braxton Knudsen, JR, OL/DL, 6-0, 230; Owen Bekanich, JR, OL/LB, 5-9, 150; Timmy Bouza, JR, OL/DL, 6-1, 222; Davion Archambeau, SR, OL/DL, 6-3, 240; Theron Zephier, SR, OL/DL, 6-2, 275; Jameson Flying Hawk, SO, OL/DL, 6-2, 230 Winner Coach: Trent Olson Conference: Southeast South Dakota Class: 11B Record last year: 12-0, Class 11B state champion Letterwinners returning: 32 Key players: Jack Peters, SR, RB/LB, 5-10, 160; Jack Kruger, SR, OL/LB, 6-3, 200; Aiden Barfuss, JR, FB/LB, 6-0, 210; Blake Volmer, SR, QB/DB, 6-3, 185; Riley Orel, SR, RB/DB, 5-10, 180; Ethan Bartels, SR, TE/DL, 6-3, 200; Tayden Mathis, SR, OL/DL, 5-10, 185; Jude Sargent, JR, RB/DB, 5-11, 180; Shawn Hammerbeck, SO, TE/DL, 6-7, 220;
WWSSC Coach: Kenny Huether Class: 11B Record last year: 5-4 Letterwinners returning: 12 Key players: Brady Larson, SR, RB/LB, 6-1, 210; Camden Jost, SR, RB/LB, 6-2, 200; Blake Larson, JR, WR/S, 5-11, 145; Toby Kneen, SR, OT/DT, 6-4, 260; Holden Havlik, SO, QB/DE, 6-3, 210; Ryder Michalek, SO, WR/CB, 6-3, 165; Michael Hoffman, SR, RB/CB, 5-11, 165; Brock Krueger, JR, WR/S, 6-3, 166; Hayes Havlik, FR, RB/CB, 5-10, 150; Hayden Beigh, SR, WR/S, 5-11, 145; Carter Gaikowski, JR, OG/DE, 5-8, 174; Carver Lindsey, SR, C/DT, 5-9, 230; Cooper Goldammer, JR, C/DT, 6-1, 240; Braydin LaBore, SR, OG/LB, 5-10, 170; Caleb Kneen, SO, OG/DE, 5-11, 178; Evan VonEye, JR, TE/LB, 6-0, 155; Rylan Grassel, SO, OT/DT, 6-1, 210; Tyson Eddy, SO, RB/LB, 5-11, 170 Coach’s comments: We had a good summer with camps and hope that translates into a winning season with the goal of peaking come playoff time. the 11B Thursday, November 11, 2021, at the
The following information was provided by the coaches of the respective teams or compiled by the Mitchell Republic’s staff.
Karson Keiser, SO, RB/DB, 5-8, 150 Coach’s comments: We not only have to replace 16 seniors on the field but their leadership as well. We will go as far as our seniors take us. We must play solid defense, run the football effectively, and avoid penalties and turnovers. We have a team that cares about each other and is always ready to compete.
mitchellrepublic.com mitchell republic, mitchell, S.D. | SaturDay, auguSt 27, 2022 | Fall Sports Preview | 13 FROM THESE SUPPORTIVE BUSINESSES! GOOD LUCK WAGNER 440 Lake Street Lake Andes, SD 800-208-8587605-487-7321 @KirwanDesign605-830-0300onFacebook esidential & CommeRCial landsCape design & installation iRRigation systems ChemiCal lawn CaRe mowing & snow Removal (605) 770-4277 Westendorf Electric LLC Allan Westendorf, Owner GOOD LUCK TRIPP/DELMONT/ARMOUR 115 South First Street Parkston, SD 605-928-338157366 Armour • 724-2155 Delmont • 779-2551 Tripp • 935-6561 www.bankwest-sd.bank Member FDIC GOOD LUCK THIS SEASON! FROM THESE SUPPORTIVE BUSINESSES!FROM THESE SUPPORTIVE BUSINESSES! GOOD LUCK SCOTLAND 550 Main Street Monday - Friday: 9:00 A.M. - 4:30 P.M. Saturday: 9:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. Box 367 - Scotland, South Dakota 57059 (605)583-2234 • www.fmsbscotland.com Hometown Banking With Your Neighbors & Friends 600 Billars 605-583-2226Scotland,StreetSD AREA FOOTBALL From Page 12 Mitchell Republic file photo Platte-Geddes’ Joey Foxley sprints away from the Parkston defense during a Class 9AA contest on Friday, September 10, 2021, in Parkston. Mitchell Republic file photo Winner’s Aiden Barfuss carries the football near the goal line during
Bon Homme Coach: Paula Bures Conference: Southeast South Dakota Region: 5A Record last year: 9-21 Letterwinners returning: Six Key players: Jaden Kortan, SR, S/RS, 5-8; Jenna Duffek, SR, OH, 5-6; Olivia Bures, JR, OH, 5-9; Erin Heusinkveld, JR, MH, 5-8; Jurni Vavruska, JR, RS, 5-6; Kenadee Kozak, SO, MH/OH, 5-7; Taycee Ranek, FR, MH/OH, 5-9 Coach’s comments: I am stoked about this season. We had no seniors last year, so I return my entire lineup and look to add a few new players into the mix. I expect our junior outside hitter, Olivia Bures, to have another great season and lead us in hitting and digs. Our former middle hitter, turned setter last year, Jaden Kortan, will lead us with her mature and stoic demeanor, as her decision-making has improved since last season. Our junior middle hitter, Erin Heusinkveld will contribute with more big hits and blocks this year. We will be able to compete with any team we face this season and I am optimistic about how we will finish in our very competitive region.
DakotaDome, in Vermillion. AREA VOLLEYBALL PREVIEW CAPSULES AREA VOLLEYBALL: Page 14
Top newcomers: Lila Vanderlei, SO, OH, 5-7; Kinley Doom, SO, MH; Macy Voigt, SO, S Coach’s comments: This year, we have two returning players from last season and we graduated some key members to the team, so there will be some new faces on the court this year. The girls have been working hard in the offseason and adjusting to new roles. We are looking forward to a great year.
Bridgewater-Emery Coach: Mary Ernster Conference: Cornbelt Region: 4B Record last year: 28-1 Letterwinners returning: Eight Top returnees: Kennedie Roskens, JR, L, 5-3; Lexi Golder, JR, MH, 5-9 Top newcomers: Hayden Hofer, SO, S/RS, 5-3; Madison Fisk, JR, OH, 5-6; Sierra Weber, JR, RS/ OH, 5-7; Kendall Furgeson, JR, MH/OH, 5-7 Coach’s comments: It will be a completely new look for us this season. We have a lot of younger talent that will get playing time but will lack varsity experience. I know this group will work hard and we look to improve with each game and be playing our best volleyball at the end of the season. We are excited to get started with this young group.
Class
Letterwinners returning: 17 Top returnees: Dawson Hoffman, SR, QB/S, 5-9, 140; Joey Foxley, JR, WR/LB, 6-0, 175; Aiden Bultje, SR, WR/LB, 5-11, 170; Lee Reiser, SR, OL/ DE, 6-1, 200; Joey Baas, SR, RB/DL, 5-7, 155; Caden Oberbroekling, JR, QB/LB, 5-11, 180
Burke Coach: Billie Jo Indahl Conference: Great Plains, South Central, Southeast South Dakota Region: 5B Record last year: 29-11, eighth at Class B state tournament. Letterwinners returning: Nine Top returnees: Adisyn Indahl, SR, OH/DS, 5-6; Kailee Frank, SO, OH, 5-8; Paige Bull, SO, MH, 6-0; Ava Sargent, SO, S, 5-4; Elle Johnson, JR, L, 5-4; Elly Witt, SR, S, 5-3 Top newcomers: Emmie Hausmann, FR, RS, 5-9; Piper Hanson, JR, MH, 5-8 Coach’s comments: We look to make another run this season in hopes to get back to the state tournament. We have a great group of returners
Letterwinners returning: Two Top returnees: McKenna Kocmich, JR, S, 5-5; Courtney Sees, JR, MH/OH, 5-8; Gracie Small, SR, RS/MH, 5-8; Kim Tolsma, SR, RS/DS, 5-7; Grace Vanderlei, JR, OH, 5-7; Sarah Swier, SR, DS, 5-4
Letterwinners returning: Eight Top returnees: Payton DeLange, SR, OH, 5-9; Sutten Eide, SR, Setter, 5-5; Jacey Kemp, JR, OH, 5-9. Top newcomers: Ashlyn Lefers, JR, MH/RS, 5-8; Brooklyn Bosma, FR, MH/RS, 5-9; Sophie DeLange, FR, MH/RS, 5-9; Cali Vanden Hoek, FR, DS, 5-3
Howard Coach: Sarah Feldhaus Conference: Cornbelt Region: 3B Record last year: 12-15 Key players: Canyon Kidd, SR, DS, 5-4; Piper Thompson, SR, OH, 5-6; Becca Feldhaus, JR, MH, 5-9; Abby Aslesen, JR, MH, 6-0; Landree Callies, SR, OH, 5-8; Taryn Mentele, JR, OH/RS, 5-5; Marina Kollmann, SR, DS/S, 5-4; Breanna Severson, SR, RS/OH, 5-9; Kate Connor, SR, MH, 6-1; Rylee Rudebusch, SR, S/RS, 5-8; Josie Hodges, SR, DS, 5-5 Kimball/White Lake Coach: Sarah Deffenbaugh Region: 5A Record last year: 16-11 Key players: Madison Meier, JR, DS/S, 5-4; Tory Fink, JR, DS, 5-1; Ryann Nielsen, JR, S/OH, 5-9; Cami Comfert, SR, S/RS, 5-8; Harley Namanny, JR, RS, 5-5; Dani Deffenbaugh, SR, OH, 5-9; Elena Brennan, SO, MH, 5-10; Lindy Kiehn, SO, MH, 5-10; Madison Heath, SR, L, 5-5
Menno Coach: Rachel Stokes Conference: Cornbelt Region: 4B Record last year: 9-16
Mitchell Republic file photo
Burke’s Adisyn bump passes the ball in front of teammate Kailee Frank during a state Class B quarterfinal match against Platte-Geddes on Thursday, November 18, 2021, at the Summit Arena, in Rapid City.
Coach’s comments: We have a great group of senior leaders and some exciting underclassmen that will help round out the team. I am looking forward to a competitive season.
Canistota Coach: Morgan Larson Conference: Cornbelt Region: 3B Record last year: 3-24 Letterwinners returning: Nine Top returnees: Taylor McGregor, SR, OH/ MH, 5-9; Kayla Papendick, JR, OH, 5-7; Sierra McGregor, JR, MH, 5-7; Natalee Hofer, JR, S, 5-7; Natalie Becker, JR, L, 5-7
Freeman Academy/Marion Coach: Jennifer McConniel Conference: Great Plains Region: 4B Record last year: 4-25 Key players: Emma McConniel, SO, DS/L, 5-4; Alexa Gortmaker, JR, OH/RS, 5-4; Jessica Paschal, JR, MH/OH, 5-5; Blanche Venot, SO, MH, 5-7; Alivea Weber, SR, OH/DS, 5-3; Isabelle McConniel, JR, S, 5-5; Sarah Cremer, JR, S/MH, 5-2; Hailey Stahl, SO, OH/RS, 5-6; Leah Goodwin, SR, RS/OH, 5-7
who have gained some valuable experience. We will have a strong core of senior leadership to lead them on and off the court. These athletes put a lot of time in the offseason to build on their skills and we really look forward to the upcoming season.
Colome Coach: Taylor Hrabanek Conference: Great Plains Region: 5B Record last year: 8-22 Letterwinners returning: Seven Key players: Devan Dougherty, SR, S/RS, 5-7; Jordyn Ring, SR, S/RS, 5-4; Ashlyn Hoffine, SR, DS/L, 5-1; Landi Krumpus, SR, DS/L, 5-3; Toree Ringing Shield, SR, MH, 5-9; Maura Luedke, JR, MH, 5-7; Westlie Cahoy, SO, DS/OH, 5-3 Corsica-Stickney Coach: Kylee Hongslo Conference: Great Plains Region: 5B Record last year: 13-14
Coach’s comments: We are looking forward to the season. We have many returning players that plan on making a big impact on the court.
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Top newcomers: Rachel Klock, FR, MH, 5-10; MaKenna TerMeer, FR, S, 5-3; Claire Mellegaard, JR, OH, 5-8 Coach’s comments: We have lost six starting seniors, so this may be a rebuilding year but I have full confidence we can figure out our rotation early in the season and have a great season.
Top newcomers: Vanessa Hoffman, JR, Setter; Clara Fink, JR, OH; Damani Casillas, SR, OH; Berkeley Engelland, JR, Libero; Ashlyn Pranger, JR, MH; Maryssa Van Gorp, JR, OH; Whitney Payne, JR, DS Coach’s comments: Good team leadership will get us where we want to be at the end of the year. We only return two starters from last year’s team, so we will need to regroup and work to be ready for region play. file
Lyman Coach: Kalli Houchin Conference: Western Great Plains Region: 6B Record last year: 4-26 No roster information available.
Letterwinners returning: Nine Top returnees: Reagan Rus, SO, MH; Devynn Nelson, SR, DS; Cally Faulhaber, SR, MH
Indahl
AREA VOLLEYBALL: Page 15
Coach: Yolanda Price Conference: Cornbelt Region: 5A Record last year: 6-22 Letterwinners returning: Eight Top returnees: Annalyse Weber, SR, OH, 5-8; Jalyn Kampshoff, SR, S, 5-4; Kate Haiar, SR, MH, 5-10; Skylar Holm, SR, DS, 5-1; Erin Dewald, SR, RS/MH, 5-8; Avery Moschell, JR, OH/MH, 5-8; Kiana Berg, SO, MH, 5-9; Kylie Haiar, SO, OH, 5-7 Top newcomers: Jersey Kampshoff, SO, DS/S, 5-0; Cadence Jarding, SO, DS, 5-2; Taziah Hawkins, FR, 5-5, OH; Claire Bridge, FR, 5-1, DS Coach’s comments: We have quite a few returners with experience and some eager underclassmen to vie for some spots. We are hoping the experience and leadership of the upperclassmen will help mold those players eager to get on the court. We are looking forward to a great season.
Freeman Coach: Kendra Peterson Conference: Cornbelt Region: 5B Record last year: 20-10, qualified for the Class B SoDak 16 Letterwinners returning: Seven Key players: Kate Miller, SR, MH, 5-10; Erin Uecker, SR, MH, 5-11; Zenovia Butler, JR, L/S, 5-5; Cami Fransen, JR, S/L, 5-5; Ashlin Jacobsen, JR, OH, 5-9; Emily Mendel, SO, RS/OH, 5-7; Ella Waltner, SO, OH, 5-8 Coach’s comments: We are looking forward to a great season. We have two outstanding seniors to lead us, backed by younger players who carry quite a bit of varsity playing experience. These girls are well-rounded and play extremely well together.
Ethan Coach: Mary Beyer Region: 4B Record last year: 17-14 Letterwinners returning: Six Top returnees: Jaya Kurtenbach, SR, OH, 5-7; Ava Lingemann, JR, OH, 5-6; Maddy Bartscher, JR, S, 5-6; Marissa Storm, FR, MH, 5-7; Aubrie Biteler, SR, S, 5-5
Parkston’s Mya Nuebel hits a shot during a state Class A quarterfinal match against Sioux Falls Christian on Thursday, November 18, 2021, at the Summit Arena, in Rapid City.
Hanson
McCook Central/Montrose Coach: Kim Vander Woude Conference: Big East Region: 3A Record last year: 13-13
Top newcomers: Bailey Spicer, SO, S, 5-3; Keira Esser, SO, MH/OH, 5-8; Hannah Hoffman, JR, DS/ RS, 5-4; Presley Acheson, JR, DS, 5-4
Mount Vernon/Plankinton Coach: Darcy Deinert Conference: Southeast South Dakota Region: 5A Record last year: 20-7
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Gregory Coach: Teresa Webster Conference: Southeast South Dakota Region: 5B Record last year: 15-13 Key players: Raesha Beck, JR, MH; Mya Determan, JR, MH; London Flakus, JR, OH; Cassidy Keiser, SR, OH; Sapphire Kenzy, SR, DS; Vy Nguyen, SR, DS; Samantha Reinartz, SR, RS; Savannah Schrader, JR, DS; Jordan Svatos, JR, S; Ashtyn Waldner, SR, RS
Chamberlain Coach: Britini DeHaai Conference: Big Dakota and Southeast South Dakota Region: 5A Record last year: 9-21 No roster information available.
Coach’s comments: We are continuing to build on a strong, athletic group of athletes. We are returning all but one starter and have a lot of depth in our bench. We are excited to be a competitive team and grow each game.
Letterwinners returning: Six Top returnees: Brianna Even, SR, S, 5-9; Aubree Kranz, SR, L, 5-6; Michaela McCormick, SR, OH, 5-9; Tayah McGregor, SR, MH, 6-2; Brandy Pulse, SR, OH, 5-8; Kayla Vander Woude, JR, MH, 6-1 Top newcomers: Aubyn Schmidt, SR, OH/ RS, 5-8; Anna Reiffenberger, SR, DS, 5-7; Abby Wagner, JR, RS, 6-0; Maddy Lauck, SO, S, 5-6
Letterwinners returning: Six Top returnees: Julia Buechler, SR, OH, 5-9; Josephine Stokes, SR, MH, 5-10; Allison Lehr, SR, OH, 5-8; Madelyn Kludt, SR, L/DS, 5-5; Alana Fergen, SR, S, 5-5; Abby Bender, SR, S, 5-1; Halle VanHove, SR, DS, 5-2; Morgan Freier, SR, OH, 5-8; Ashton Massey, JR, MH, 6-0; Maggie Miller, JR, L/DS, 5-2 Top newcomers: Kaelie Derby, JR, MH, 5-6; Joslynn Fischer, SO, S, 5-4; Taylor Freier, SO, OH, 5-5; Ellyana Ulmer, SO, OH, 5-4
Scotland Coach: Kayla Esche Conference: Little Missouri Valley Region: 5B Record last year: 12-13 Key players: Ciara Henry, SR, DS, 5-6; Nora Robb, SO, S, 5-5; Claire Janish, SR, S/DS, 5-6; Bailey Vitek, SR, L, 5-4; Kalley Vitek, JR, S/DS, 5-5; Martina DeBoer, SR, MH/OH, 5-10; Jerica Stark, JR, MH, 5-11; Trinity Bietz, SO, MH/ OH, 5-10; Grace Robb, JR, OH/DS, 5-8; Katelyn Rempfer, JR, MH, 5-11; Grace Vitek, SO, OH, 5-8; Emily Dvorak, SO, MH, 5-10
Platte-Geddes’ Regan Hoffman hits over the Burke defense as teammates Cadence Van Zee (6) and Hadley Hanson (12) look on during a state Class B quarterfinal match on Thursday, November 18, 2021, at the Summit Arena, in Rapid City.
Parkston Coach: Abbie Hobbick Conference: Little Missouri Valley and Southeast South Dakota Region: 5A Record last year: 21-17, eighth in Class A
Key players: Gracie Oakley, JR, OH, 5-5; Abby Hohn, SR, MH, 5-10; Mya Nuebel, JR, OH, 5-4; Lauren Ziebart, SO, OH, 5-5; Kiauna Hargens, SR, MH/OH, 5-8; Mya Wickersham, SO, MH, 5-7; Allie Hobbick, SO, DS/S, 5-5; Faith Oakley, SR, S, 5-8; Mya Thuringer, SO, MH/RS, 5-7
Mitchell Republic file photo
Tripp-Delmont/Armour Coach: Mandi Holbeck Conference: Little Missouri Valley Region: 5B Record last year: 17-14 Key players: Morgan Gemar, JR, S/RS, 5-8; Hannah Stremick, SR, S/RS, 5-8; Gracey Schatz, SR, MH, 5-9; Faith Goehring, SR, OH, 5-7; Megan Reiner, JR, MH, 5-10; Callie Westendorf, SR, L, 5-3
Wagner Coach: Stacey Knebel Conference: Southeast South Dakota Region: 5A Record last year: 28-8, fourth in Class A Top returnees: Emma Yost, SR, OH, 5-11; Avari Bruguier, SR, OH, 5-10; Shalayne Nagel, SR, OH, 5-11; Macy Koupal, JR, S, 5-9; Madi Knebel, JR, L, 5-4; Kya Kjeldgaard, JR, MB, 6-0; Shona Kocer, JR, MB, 6-0 Top newcomers: Aubrey Medricky, JR, OH, 5-11; Lydia Yost, SO, S/DS, 5-7; Ashlyn Koupal, FR, OH/ MB, 5-11 Coach’s comments: We have all of our starters and we have a lot of depth with this group of girls. The girls have been working hard in the offseason and they are hoping for another great season. These girls are a competitive group of young ladies that have a similar goal in mind.
Mitchell Republic file photo
The Wagner volleyball team celebrates after a successful scoring rally during a state Class A quarterfinal match against Hill City on Thursday, November 18, 2021, at the Summit Arena, in Rapid City.
Platte-Geddes Coach: Melissa Johnson Conference: South Central and Southeast South Dakota Region: 5A Record last year: 34-5, third in Class B
mitchellrepublic.com mitchell republic, mitchell, S.D. | SaturDay, auguSt 27, 2022 | Fall Sports Preview | 15 AREA VOLLEYBALL From Page 14
Coach’s comments: We lost five starters from last year’s team. I feel that as we gain experience during the season that we should have another successful season. The team is working hard and looking forward to improving with each match.
Letterwinners returning: Nine Top returnees: Avery DeVries, SR, S, 5-5; Regan Hoffman, SR, OH, 5-5; Karly VanDerWerff, JR, MH, 5-10; Cadence Van Zee, JR, OH, 5-10; Baleigh Nachtigal, JR, RS, 5-5; Karsen Sondgeroth, JR, DS, 5-3; Emerson Ringling, JR, MH, 5-9; Hadley Hanson, JR, L, 5-6; Halle Sprik, SO, DS, 5-4 Top newcomers: Addison DeVries, SO, OH, 5-7; Sydney Neuman, SO, MH, 5-7; Natalie Severson, SR, DS, 5-4 Coach’s comments: We did move up to Class A but we have many Class A teams on our schedule and can compete well against them. We are looking forward to the challenges Class A will bring. We earned third place at the State B tournament last year and we hope to make it to state again. Sanborn Central/Woonsocket Coach: Rick Olsen Conference: 281 Region: 5A Record last year: 22-7 Letterwinners returning: Eight Top returnees: Ellie Evans, SR, OH, 5-6; Kennadie Ochsner, JR, MH, 5-10; Jeslynn Moody, SR, RS, 5-8; Tristan Jensen, SR, OH, 5-8; Bailey Feistner, SR, S, 5-6; Kenlie Fridley, SR, S, 5-4; Kailynn Eggleston, SR, OH, 5-8; Bella Fry, SR, DS, 5-7; Kamryn Ochsner, JR, OH, 5-9 Top newcomers: Jaycee Baruth, JR, OH, 5-9; Kara Wormstadt, JR, RS, 5-6; Aubrey Senska, JR, MH, 5-6; Makenzie Schley, SO, OH, 5-7
Winner Coach: Jaime Keiser Conference: Big Dakota and Southeast South Dakota Region: 7A Record last year: 18-14, Class A SoDak 16 qualifier Key players: Kelbi Meiners, SR, RS, 5-5; Leila Balsiger, JR, MH, 5-7; Karlee Brozik, JR, OH, 5-9; Saylor Schuyler, JR, DS, 5-1; Aleya Miller, SR, L, 5-6; Preslie Petersek, SO, OH, 5-5; Tessa Sieh, SO, MH, 5-11; Ashlynn McPhee, JR, DS, 5-6; Lexi Klein, JR, S, 5-7; Cici Watson, JR, RS/S, 5-7; Kendall Dice, JR, MH, 5-6; Adysen Pravecek, SO, DS, 5-4
Wessington Springs Coach: Lynette Neely Conference: 281 Region: 5B Record last year: 14-18 Letterwinners returning: Eight Top returnees: Avery Orth, JR, MH, 6-2; Alyssa Grohs, JR, S, 5-2; Sarah Poncelow, SR, OH, 5-10; Raylee Fagerhaug, JR, OH, 5-4; Riley Roduner, SR, OH, 5-6 Top newcomers: Carissa Scheel, JR, MH, 5-11; Mariah Messmer, SO, DS, 5-5; Ashlyn Weber, SO, OH, 5-5; Hannah Heezen, JR, OH, 5-6 Coach’s comments: We have everyone coming back this year and had no seniors last year. These girls have been working and playing together for a few years now. They are ready to make a big impact.
The upward momentum of the Dakota Wesleyan University volleyball team continued in 2022, scoring 25 wins, a pair of wins in the NAIA tournament and a top-20 finish in the rankings. Now expectations are in place for the Tigers, who enter the season ranked No. 15 in the nation’s toughest conference. DWU was 25-10 in 2021 and finished the season ranked No. 14 in the country after advancing out of the opening round of the NAIA tournament at the Corn Palace, and reaching the final 24 in Sioux City, Iowa, where they went 1-1 in pool play and were eliminated by Park University, of Missouri, which was the eventual national champion. The Tigers are led by Ady Dwight, the Langford product who was a first-team AllAmerican for DWU in 2021, the first in DWU volleyball history. Now a junior, Dwight had 473 kills and 136 blocks, while hitting .308 and leading the team in kills, hitting percentage, total blocks and blocks per set. Early in 2022, Dwight is off to a blazing start, with 69 kills and 21 blocks in four matches played in AtFlorida.the net, a number of South Dakota products are doing the job for DWU early in 2022, including Abby Brunsing (Wagner), Taylee Indahl (Burke), Mariah Gloe (Watertown) and Mackenzie Miller (Mitchell). Senior setter Madeline Else returns to her key role for DWU after more than 1,000 set assists in 2021, while Hanna Reiff (Chester) leads the defense at libero, with Tya Weideman, Dannielle Burns and Callie Slagter playing key minutes, as Inwell.the GPAC preseason poll, Jamestown was the GPAC regular season and tournament champion off an 19-0 combined record in those matches. The Jimmies had six first-place votes, with Midland second at 107 points and three first-place votes and Northwestern was third with 98 points and three firstplace nods. Concordia was fourth (90 points), College of Saint Mary at fifth (82) and Dakota Wesleyan was sixth at 80 points. Cross country With new head coach of cross country and track and field Matthew Rosado, the Dakota Wesleyan cross country programs will look for stability and improvement in 2022. Rosado, who took over the programs at the start of 2022, enters his first season overseeing the cross country program.Onceagain, DWU’s rosters are small, with only two varsity women’s competitors and six men’s racers. Mitchell native and senior Annika Vermeulen and Pierre junior Morgan Oedekoven make up the women’s roster as of mid-August. The Tigers finished 11th at the GPAC meet in November 2021, where Oedekoven was 54th in the conference list of finishers and Vermeulen was 57th. For the men, DWU brings back its top four finishers from the 2021 GPAC meet, where DWU finished ninth in the conference. Caleb Sayler, a sophomore from Lennox, is the Tigers’ top finisher from the conference meet in 2021, finishing 35th. Wyatt Baldauf, a junior from Seneca, Illinois, and Justin Sorensen, a junior from Vermillion, were each top-50 finishers, and Hunter Shanks, a sophomore from Bennington, Nebraska, finished 60th. In a preseason poll of coaches, DWU’s men’s team was picked ninth out of 11 GPAC programs, while the DWU women were 11th out of 12. The GPAC meet will be contested Nov. 5 in Jamestown, N.D. Soccer
DWU FALL SPORTS PREVIEW
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By Mitchell Republic Below are brief previews of the Dakota Wesleyan University athletic teams that will be in action this fall: Football The Dakota Wesleyan University football team was picked to finish seventh in the 11-team Great Plains Athletic Conference in 2022, but for the Tigers to make a step forward, they will be asking for much more from their offense. DWU scored 13 points per game in 2021, which was the sixth-lowest among the 98 NAIA football programs last season. The Tigers had a decent rushing attack — averaging 136 rushing yards per game — but was held to only eight rushing touchdowns for the season.The DWU quarterback position appears to be settled, with Austin Lee as the lone returner on the fall roster after battling Cayden Cunningham in the spring before Cunningham left the team prior to the fall. Lee played in two games in 2021 and threw 129 passing yards for the Tigers at signal-caller as DWU averaged 143.5 yards per game through the air. At receiver, Mitchell native Kiel Nelson and Jakob Oxos both return as juniors, while Wagner product Preston Nedved will be asked to step forward in the pass game. A freshman to watch is Jackson Hilton, the former Brandon Valley standout who stands at 6-foot-4. Emery native Jamin Arend and Hudson native Logan Serck are expected to be key pieces of the running back group, along with sophomore Garrett Mandolfo. The offensive line is anchored by seniors Hayden Dinger and T.J. Benton, with the latter named a second team allGPAC selection in 2021. On defense, the Tigers bring back Romeon Grieve and Ethan Engen, who each started on the defensive line at the end of 2021. The linebacking corps will have some new faces, with all four starters from last season graduating, but DWU brings back Mitchell native Max Schoenfelder and Victor Kniesche, plus incoming recruits Grayson Hanson (Platte), Joe Van Overschelde (Mitchell) and Connor Kerkhove (Bridgewater). In the secondary, senior Jacob Zamora and junior Adam DeJong will be important to DWU shoring up a defense that allowed 363.5 yards per game but many times kept the Tigers in games. The Tigers have only three rostered seniors on the roster, along with 10 juniors, with the rest of the roster either being freshmen or sophomores, with some of those players in their second or third year due to COVID-19. Volleyball
New leadership is at the helm of Dakota Wesleyan University soccer in 2022, with a single head coach now leading both programs in Nicolas Reinhard, a native of Germany. DWU women’s coach Clay Glasgow, who coached for eight seasons, is now at Southwest Minnesota State, while men’s coach Brady Van Holland took over the head job at LeTourneau University in Texas after one season in Mitchell. The DWU men were 4-13-1 last season, with a 3-7-1 GPAC record, and scored only 16 goals for the season, ranking in the bottom-20 nationally in goals per game. Midfielder Grant Pierce returns to the Tigers for a fifth season after starting 17 games last year, along with forward Cesar Requena and DWU also returns goalkeeper Hunter Birozy, who had a pair of shutouts in 2021. The Tigers will look to Reinhard to provide stability for the men, who are on their eighth head coach since 2005. For the Tiger women, DWU had a 9-7-2 overall record, which included a 7-1 home mark in 2021, plus a 6-5-1 ledger in conference matches. The Tigers made the GPAC tournament, only to fall on penalty shots following a 1-1 match at Briar Cliff. The DWU women will need to seek to replace its top three scorers from 2021 — Jozy Bardsley, Kamryn Harrop and Alondra Patrida — who graduated and accounted for 24 of the team’s 33 goals. Midfielders Alyssa Crnic and Deandrea Johnson, along with senior defender Bailey Nester (a Hartford native) are expected to lead DWU this season. Sophomore Isabella Gregg will take over the primary goalkeeping duties after a strong freshman year, with a 1.78 goals against average and a 6-4 record in net. Golf DWU golf turns the page to the 2022-23 season under the leadership of second-year head coach Russell Pick. Of note in 2022-23, the GPAC has changed formats for the conference championships, moving to a single, 54-hole event. Previously, the conference played two, 36-hole events — one in the fall and one in the spring — and compiled a 72-hole cumulative score to decide the season’s individual and team champions. This season, the GPAC will have a 54-hole championship in the spring only, with 36 played on Day 1 and 18 holes on Day 2, moving the GPAC in line with a number of other NAIA conference meet formats. The men’s GPAC championships will be held April 24-25 at Beatrice Country Club in Beatrice, Nebraska, followed by the women’s championships May 1-2 at Spencer Country Club in Spencer, Iowa. On the Tiger women’s roster, seniors Megan Hinker and Erin Moncur lead the way for DWU, which finished second in the GPAC last season. Hinker took fourth in the GPAC meet, while Moncur was eighth, with each earning all-GPAC honors. On the men’s side, Mitchell native Cade Carpenter has graduated and was the only all-GPAC selection for the Tigers last season after a top-10 finish. As a team, DWU finished eighth in the 11-team GPAC competition. Nevertheless, there are some key returners for the Tigers. Rapid City’s Payton Phares is DWU’s lone returning senior, finishing 32nd at the GPAC meet last season. Hartford native Caden Jost and Sioux Falls’ Carson Van Beek carry the flag for the team’s juniors. Micah Dohrer, of Aberdeen, returns as a sophomore and finished 41st in the GPAC competition last year. While not full participants in all championship rounds, sophomore Max Dailey (Mitchell) and Cody Cavanaugh (De Smet) each got a taste of GPAC meet last season, as well. n
Mitchell Republic file photo Dakota Wesleyan football coach Ross Cimpl talks to the offense in a Great Plains Athletic Conference football game against Mount Marty on Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021 at Crane-Youngworth Field in Yankton.
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