Sports preview spring 2017

Newport • Priest River • Cusick • Selkirk

2017

Spring Sports PREVIEW Baseball • Softball • Track & Field • Tennis • Soccer • Golf

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akes Dock & Ba L n r e h rge t r Kevin Hansen o (208) 428-0505

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EDITORS NOTE The Miner has long had a sports preview section but this year we turned it into its own publication. We have profiles and team previews on each of the Spring Sports teams in the four school districts in our coverage area – Newport, Priest River, Cusick and Selkirk.

In addition to athlete pictures, we interviewed the coaches to get their thoughts on the season.

The teams and coaches run the gamut from experienced to first year. Some will contend for championships and some will struggle to get a single win. Either way, the teams have their dedicated fans who turn out for every home game and cheer the results no matter how they come out.

We hope you enjoy this edition of the Spring Sports Preview and follow your favorite team in the sports pages of The Miner each week.

Published: March 2017 Publisher: Michelle Nedved Writers & editors: Don Gronning and Sophia Aldous Advertising: Lindsay Guscott, Cindy Boober and Micki Brass

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The SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW is published as a supplement to The Newport Miner and Gem State Miner, 421 S. Spokane, Newport WA 99156.

TELEPHONE: 509-447-2433 E-MAIL: minernews@povn.com, mineradvertising@povn.com FAX: 509-447-9222

Reproduction of articles & photographs is prohibited without permission of the Publisher.

See all issues at:

The Miner Online: www.pendoreillerivervalley.com.

Penrith Farms

Serving the Community & Youth for Over 30 Years Newport, WA • (509) 447-2996 PAGE 2

2017 Spring Sports Preview

Newport High School - Grizzlies • Baseball - Page 3 • Softball - Page 4 • Track & Field - Page 5

• Boys Soccer - Page 6 • Tennis - Page 7 • Golf - Page 7

GRIZZLY BASEBALL Newport’s fourth head baseball coach in as many years is frank about what changing coaches so often does to a team. “We will be an underdog for good reasons this year, due to the lack of consistency (in coaches),” Gary Reese says. “This is exactly where I like to start with a program. Just watch us at the end of the season. I think it will be awesome.”

Reese says he has 25 players turning out, but hasn’t been able to play outside much yet.

Top returnees: Seniors Jesse Reyes, Conrad Madison and Fred Houck and junior Hunter Peterson.

Top prospects: “The gym is not a place evaluate baseball talent,” says Reese. “I’ll let you know when we get outside.” At the end of last year’s season, then coach Sean Schneider said there was a strong group of eighth graders coming up. When asked about them, Reese stuck to his guns, refusing to name top prospects.

“I don’t like to put pressure on the young ones,” he says. “I like to protect them.”

Key losses: The Grizzlies lost Braden Nichols and Isaac Patterson to graduation last year.

Overall projection of team’s chances in the Northeast A League: Reese says he doesn’t have a clue. Freeman will have to be considered one of the Northeast A League’s favorites. The Scotties have made it to state the last two years, finishing third last year. Medical Lake and Lakeside also made it to state last year. Newport will have a ways to go to be in the mix. The Grizzlies have only won one game in the last two seasons. They beat Colville in the last game of the season last year for a league win.

Friday, March 31 vs. Medical Lake: 4 p.m. - Newport High School Tuesday, April 11 vs. Chewelah: 4:30 p.m. - Chewelah High School Friday, April 14 vs. Colville: 4:30 p.m. - Colville High School Saturday, April 15 vs. Colville: Noon - Newport High School Tuesday, April 18 vs. Freeman: 4:30 p.m. - Newport High School Friday, April 21 vs. Deer Park: 4:30 p.m. - Newport High School Saturday, April 22 vs. Deer Park: Noon - Deer Park High School Tuesday, April 25 vs. Riverside: 4:30 p.m. - Newport High School Friday, April 28 vs. Lakeside: 4:30 p.m. - Lakeside H.S., Nine Mile Saturday, APril 29 vs. Chewelah: Noon - Newport High School Tuesday, May 2 vs. Medical Lake: 4:30 p.m. - Medical High School Thursday, May 4 vs. Freeman: 4:30 p.m. - Freeman High School Friday, May 5 vs. Lakeside: 4:30 p.m. - Newport High School

Strengths: Reese counts the fact that everyone is willing to change the program around as a strength.

Gary See Page 8 Reese Head Coach

231 N. Washington Street, Newport 509-447-2319 Licensed & Insured WA & ID

Conrad Madison Senior #23

Fred Houck Senior #11

Matthew Kauffman Senior #7

Jesse Reyes Senior #3

Colton Malsbury Senior #13

Hunter Peterson Junior #21

Jacob Weber Junior #5

Christian Waterman Junior #12

Owen Leslie Junior #15

Tug Smith Sophomore #2

Joel Miller Freshman #17

Jacob Kirkwood Freshman #34

2017 Spring Sports Preview

(509) 447-4229 Newport, WA • www.rogersbodyandframe.com PAGE 3

GRIZZLY SOFTBALL Hailey Walker Senior

Tessa Pillers Junior

Kyana Klineline Senior

Emmily Bronkhorst Sophomore

Stormy Anderson Senior

Alexis Polensky Sophomore

Crystal Miller Junior

Mariah Dana Sophomore

Lilly Gray Junior

Chloe Walker Freshman

Not pictured: Brent Bronkhurst Asst. Coach Ashley Cox Freshman

Adamae Holloway Freshman

Randy Wyrobek Head Coach

Adrian Bojorquez Asst. Coach

Newport Consolidated School District 509-447-3167

Alexandria Poisel Junior

Kayd Moss Freshman

Following last year’s disappointing season for Newport softball, coach Randy Wyrobek said he expects his team to be more competitive this season. “(We have) good solid talent,” he said. “We have enough seasoned players combined with younger talent that will fit in nicely this season. We spent time in the off season at clinics and participating in summer ball to help with this process.”

Top returnees: Seniors Stormy Anderson, Haily Walker and Kyana Klineline; juniors Crystal Miller, Lilly Gray, Lexi Poisel, Alexis Musso, Tessa Pillers and Mckenzie Shirley; sophomores Emmily Bronkhurst, Lexi Polensky, Mariah Dana, Racine Balow, Katelynn Dean, Julie Schooler and Megan Manson

Top prospects: Adamae Holloway, Kayd Moss, Ashley Cox, Athena Smith and Chloe Zargosa Key losses: Tory Poisel, Jensen Kirkwood, Linda Walker and Piper Matthews Overall projection of the team’s chances in the Northeast A League: “I can see us being more competitive than we were last season,” Wyrobek said.

Head Coach: Randy Wyrobek Coaching experience: 20 years Teacher experience: Fire science instructor for 20 years Athletic experience: Played baseball in high school, modified and fast pitch softball for numerous year in the service, and adult leagues in Europe and Spokane.

Assistant coaches: Brent Bronkhurst, Adrian Bojorquez

Thursday, March 30 vs. Medical Lake: 4 p.m. - Newport High School Tuesday, April 11 vs. Colville: 4:30 p.m. - Colville High School Thursday, April 13 vs. Chewelah: 4:30 p.m. - Chewelah High School Tuesday, April 18 vs. Deer Park: 4:30 p.m. - Newport High School Thursday, April 20 vs. Freeman: 4:30 p.m. - Newport HIgh School Friday, APril 21 vs. Freeman: 4:30 p.m. - Freeman High School Tuesday, April 25 vs. Lakeside: 4:30 p.m. - Lakeside High School, Nine Mile Thursday, April 27 vs. Riverside: 4:30 p.m. - Newport High School Tuesday, May 2 vs. Medical Lake: 4:30 p.m. - Medical Lake High School Thursday, May 4 vs. Colville: 4:30 p.m. - Newport High School Saturday, May 6 vs. Chewelah: Noon - Newport High School Tuesday, May 9 vs. Deer Park: 4:30 p.m. - Deer Park High School

Educate to participate in school and in life.

PAGE 4

2017 Spring Sports Preview

GRIZZLY TRACK & FIELD Late winter weather has intruded on spring sports practice, keeping the Newport High School track and field team inside.

“I don’t know who my top prospects are because we haven’t been able to get out on the track,” says Newport High School track and field coach Lindsay Hicks-Frazer.

Top returnees: seniors Dalton Arrand, Becca Malcolm, Aryonna Willoughby, Tiara Hamberg, Shauna Zubaugh, Erika Moore, and Mikayla Bridges; Juniors Michael Warner, Rylan Hastings, Victoria Helton, Sonja Moore, and Brad McMeen, and sophomores Chris Rivard and Brian Malcolm.

Key losses: Kaben Hastings, Brendan Geary, Cory Wiley, Rhianna Knorr, Kylin Brown, Shelby Fisher, Harley Taylor, Isobel Kapner and Mary Spring

Overall projection of team’s chances in the league: HicksFrazer didn’t have any comment.

Last year, the Grizzlies set personal records at the district meet hosted in Newport, but no one went on to the state tournament.

Strengths: “There are some strong athletes transferred over from winter sports,” says Hicks-Frazer. “They are showing motivation and effort already.”

as an English teacher and her second year at Newport High School.

Athletic experience: Former recreational club competitor in the United Kingdom in sprints, hurdles, high jump, long jump and relays.

Assistant coaches: Paul Moore and Morgan Stigall

Weaknesses: “We have a fairly small team to spread across all the events,” observes Hicks-Frazer.

Twenty athletes turned out for track this year, less than half the number from the year before.

Head coach: Lindsay Hicks-Frazer Age: 52 Coaching experience: Second year coaching Newport track and field

Dyllin Hoisington Freshman

Sonja Moore Senior

Erika Moore Junior

Mikayla Bridges Senior

Acacia Wicks Senior

Shawna Zubaugh Senior

Angus Hicks Frazer Freshman

Hamilton Hicks Frazer Sophomore

Troy Hill Freshman

Morgan Endicott Freshman

Drew Green Freshman

Joel McDermeit Junior

Tiara Hamberg Junior

Lindsay Hicks-Frazer Head Coach

Morgan Stigall Asst. Coach

Teaching experience: Four years

Friday, March 31 Vs. Riverside: Noon - Riverside High School Saturday, April 15 vs. Cheney: 9 a.m. - Cheney High School Victoria Wednesday, April 19 vs medical Lake: 3:30 p.m. - Medical Lake H.S. Helton Junior Saturday, April 22 vs. Priest River: 10 a.m. - PRLHS Wednesday, April 26 vs. Northeast A League: 3:30 p.m. - Newport H.S. Wednesday, May 3 vs. Northeast A League: 3:30 p.m. - Lakeside Friday, May 5 vs. Riverside: 3 p.m. - Riverside High School Wednesday, May 10 vs. Northeast A League: 3:30 p.m. - Newport H.S.

Go ! z i Gr

2017 Spring Sports Preview

Not pictured: Claudia Fernandez Dalton Arrand Brian Malcolm Rebecca Malcolm Johnny Frantz Paul Moore, Asst. Coach

Chris Rivard Sophomore

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601 State Route 20, Newport, Washington (509) 447-2413 PAGE 5

GRIZZLY BOYS SOCCER

Josh Cunningham Senior

Andrew Donely Senior

Jace Hoadley Senior

Johnny Quandt Senior

Kai Thomas Senior

Fritz Turner Senior

Newport High School is back for another season of boys’ soccer, with 35 kids trying out for this year’s team.

“It’s great to see so many kids getting out there and getting exercise through this sport,” says Newport high School soccer coach Mark Zorica.

“We hope people will come out and watch us and support the program.”

Last year, the Grizzlies finished 16th in the state and were ranked number six in the playoffs.

Jesse Young Senior

Ryan Leon Senior

Martin Rocca Junior

Kade Zorica Junior

Jaoa Monteiro Junior

Adam Moorhead Sophomore

Not pictured: Todd Matthews Asst. Coach Thomas Cass Asst. Coach Sami Parakenings Sophomore

Christian Loutzenhiser Sophomore

Sam Thomas Freshman

Mark Zorica Head Coach

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PAGE 6

Top Returnees: seniors Johnny Quandt, Kai Thomas, Josh Cunningham, Jace Hoadley, Jesse Young; junior Kade Zorica, and sophomore Adam Moorhead.

Top prospects: Johnny Quandt, Kai Thomas, Jace Hoadley, and Josh Cunningham Key losses: Kyler Zorica and Freedom Struthers, who graduated last year, Lochlan Corkrell, and foreign exchange students Pablo Rufino and Leo Fernandez.

Overall projection of team’s chances in the Northeast A League: “We don’t know when we’re going to be able to play any home games due to the weather,” says Zorica, adding he doubted that Ellersick Field would be clear of snow in time for the Grizzlies game against Medical Lake on March 21. As a result, this has caused his team to have to practice indoors, which hasn’t given them a chance to work at their full potential.

“I’d say right now, we’re in the middle of the pack in terms of league chances, but our goal is the top.”

Strengths: There are a lot of returnees this year and thus far it looks like the athletes have good chemistry.

“They are a tight-knit group of kids, and it looks like that will get better the more they play,” says Zorica. “It’s hard to tell right now, but the returning kids know what they need to do on the field and how to improve on that. They know they have to be better every day.”

So far, Mother Nature has proved to be the team’s greatest weakness, says Zorica, adding that it’s different playing soccer in a gymnasium as opposed to getting out on the field.

“It’s hard to practice patterns, passing and really get the stamina going when you are dribbling back and forth in the gym,” Zorica says. “It doesn’t help us condition the way we would like to, but then there’s nothing we can do about that until the weather gets better.”

Head coach: Mark Zorica Age: 44 Coaching experience: U-6 through U-20 Athletic experience: Zorica played club soccer from age five to 15, high school soccer and adult league soccer. He also was a USSF referee for 12 years and a NCAA referee for four years.

Assistant coach: Todd Matthews, Thomas Cass

Thursday, March 30 vs. Riverside: 4 p.m. - Newport High School Tuesday, April 11 vs. Deer Park: 4 p.m. - Newport High School Thurday, April 13 vs. Medical Lake: 4 p.m. - Newport High School Saturday, April 15 vs. Clarkston: Noon - Newport High School Tuesday, April 18 vs. Colville: 4 p.m. - Newport High School Thursday, April 20 vs. Lakeside: 4 p.m. - Newport High School Tuesday, April 25 vs. Riverside: 4 p.m. - Riverside High School Thursday, April 27 vs. Deer Park: 4 p.m. - Deer Park High School

Newport Miner (509) 447-2433 www.pendoreillerivervalley.com

2017 Spring Sports Preview

GRIZZLY TENNIS Newport has a new tennis program this year, with about 26 players turning out to compete on the newly refurbished courts – 14 girls and 12 boys.

“We are excited for this season and are very excited to be outside,” says first year coach Jocelyn Pearson. Newport will compete in the eightteam Northeast A League, with Chewelah, Colville, Deer Park, Freeman, Lakeside, Medical Lake and Riverside.

Pearson will have her work cut out for her coaching the team, all of whom are first year players. The Newport tennis courts have been unused for decades.

Top returnees: Since everyone is a first year high school tennis player in a first year program, nobody is returning. However senior girls are Laurel Behrend, Hope Ellingberg, Kiara Howard, Breanna Willis; juniors Cierra Mende, Connor Borches, Kesslyn Fleck, Aubrey Miller, Devon Whittle, Valicity Wright; sophomores Cydni Lewis, Miranda Campbell, Dee Deerwester, Leslie Frye, Daisy Gay, Cody Warner, Roslyn Willoughby and Aurora Zeason and freshmen Dawsen Baldwin, Lydia Jurgens, Cameron Whittle, Chase Graham and Jonathan Goodman.

Top prospects: Boys: Connor Borches, Dawsen Baldwin, Jonathan Goodman, Chase Graham, Rylan

Hastings, Cody Warner, Dylan Warner and Cameron Whittle. Girls: Cierra Amende, Laurel Behrend, Kesslyn Fleck, Daisy Gay, Lydia Jurgens, Cydni Lewis, Breanna Willis and Aurora Zeason.

Key losses: Since it’s a new program, there are no key losses.

Overall projection of team’s chances in the Northeast A League: “We believe we will be competitive in our league,” first year coach Jocelyn Pearson says. “All of our players are learning to play tennis for the first time this year.”

Strengths: “We have a very athletic group of players,” Pearson says.

Weaknesses: “We do not have the experience of our opponents,” she says and noted the team only got on the courts less than a week before their first match.

Dawsen Baldwin Freshman

Jonathan Goodman Freshman

Chase Graham Freshman

Rylan Hastings Junior

Cody Warner Sophomore

Connor Borches Junior

Cameron Whittle Freshman

Kesslyn Fleck Junior

Tyler Hill Junior

Gage Seger Freshman

Devon Whittle Junior

Cierra Amende Junior

Laurel Behrend Senior

Cayson Maughan Sophomore

Lydia Jurgens Freshman

Cyndi Lewis Sophomore

Breanna Willis Senior

Aurora Zeason Sophomore

Aubrey Miller Junior

Erica Simila Junior

Michael Warner Junior

Jocelyn Pearson Head Coach

Head coach: Jocelyn Pearson Age: 31 Coaching experience: First year Teaching experience: Pearson is also a first year first grade teacher.

Athletic experience: Pearson competed in basketball and volleyball in high school. She learned tennis from her husband after college and competed in open women’s tournaments prior to moving to Newport.

Assistant coaches: Brandon McDaniel

Thursday, March 30 vs. Chewelah: 3:30 p.m. - Chewelah High School Tuesday, April 11 vs. Medical Lake: 3:30 p.m. - Newport High School Thursday, April 13 vs. Freeman: 3:30 p.m. - Freeman High School Friday, April 14 vs. Deer Park: 3:30 p.m. - Newport High School Tuesday, April 18 vs. Riverside: 3:30 p.m. - Newport High School Thursday, April 20 vs. Lakeside: 3:30 p.m. - Newport High School Saturday, April 22 vs. Colville: 11 a.m. - Colville High School (Girls Only) Tuesday, April 25 vs. Chewelah: 3:30 p.m. - Newport High School Tuesday, May 2 vs. Medical Lake: 3:30 p.m. - Medical Lake High School Thursday, May 4 vs. Freeman: 3:30 p.m. - Newport High School Friday, May 5 vs. Deer Park: 3:30 p.m. - Deer Park High School

2017 Spring Sports Preview

Not pictured: Dylan Warner, Junior Daisy Gay, Sophomore Leah O’Neal, Senior Valicity Wright, Junior Brandon McDaniel, Asst. Coach

PAGE 7

GRIZZLY GOLF

Zach Gokey Senior

Joey Akai Freshman

Clayton Baldwin Freshman

Gus Newman Freshman

Wyatt Dikes Freshman

Luke Nichols Freshman

Chris Ownbey Senior

Paige Dice Junior

John Hilden Senior

Gabriel Gilliam Junior

Gabe Furman Senior

Jeremiah Chalouplea Freshman

Not pictured: Ben Krogh Tabytha Chalouplea Mathew Ragsdale Sophomore

Alexis Phillips Freshman

Quinn Barnwell Junior

Dave Siemsen Head Coach

Golf is a burgeoning sport at Newport High School with 20 players this season as opposed to 12 players last year.

Weaknesses: “Our girls team is very young, but has potential to place in district with improvements,” says Siemsen.

Top returnees: Seniors are Chris Ownbey, John Hilden, Gabe Furman

Head coach: Dave Siemsen

There are no sophomores.

Top prospects: Newport high School golf coach Dave Siemsen did not single out a particular player, instead saying, “We have a chance to do well in districts this year.”

Siemsen did not note key losses, although Michelle Contreras graduated.

Neither did he touch upon on the team’s chance in the league.

Strengths: “We have a strong boys team and have high hopes placing well in districts and continue on to state,” says Siemsen.

Age: 52 Coaching experience: 25 years of coaching baseball, football trainer, five years coaching golf and youth athletics.

Occupation/Teaching experience: Special Education Teacher for the Newport School District.

Athletic experience: Played various sports in college Assistant coaches: None at this time.

Monday, April 10 vs. Chewelah: 10 a.m. - StoneRidge Golf Course Tuesday, APril 18 vs. Freeman: 10 a.m. - Hangman Golf Course Thursday, APril 27 vs. Deer park: 10 a.m. - Deer Park Golf Course Tuesday, May 2 vs. Lakeside: 10 a.m. - Lakeside High School Thursday, May 4 vs. Medical Lake: 10 a.m. - Fairways Golf Course Tuesday, May 9 at district qualifier: TBA - Fairways Golf Course Tuesday, May 16 at District Championship: Chewelah Golf Course May 23-24 at State: TBA - Horned Rapids, Tri-Cities

NEWPORT BASEBALL From Page 3 Weaknesses: Reese is the fourth coach in four years, so consistency will be a challenge.

Head coach: Gary Reese Age: 50 Coaching experience: Reese has 24 years coaching experience. In 2015, he was head volleyball and girls basketball coach for Cusick. In addition to coaching high school volleyball and girls basketball, he has coached football, boys basketball and PAGE 8

baseball.

Occupation: Reese is a semi-retired juvenile probation officer.

Athletic experience: Reese played all three sports in high school. He grew up in the Omak area and played college baseball at Eastern Washington University for two years before going to Texas to play professionally for a couple seasons with the Galveston Gulls in the Texas League, a AA minor league baseball program.

Assistant coaches: There isn’t an assistant coach yet.

2017 Spring Sports Preview

Priest River Les Schwab 4357 Highway 2

208-448-2311 Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

2017 Spring Sports Preview

PAGE 9

Priest River Lamana High School - Spartans • Baseball - Page10 • Softball - Page 11 • Track and Field - Page 12-13 • Golf - 15

SPARTAN BASEBALL The Priest River Spartans baseball team won’t hurt for numbers, with 25 players turning out. The team lost a number of seniors from last year’s team who will be missed, but has a strong group of freshmen playing. As usual, getting a chance to practice outdoors has been slow coming.

Top returnees: Seniors Hunter Hartwig, Jordon Simcox and Anthony Storro; juniors Kody Kuprienko, Aaron Jeter and Cameron Reeves; sophomore Gavin Rodgers

cas, Caden Brennan, Kenyan Troup and Justin Allbee and junior Dausen O’Brien are the team’s top prospects.

Key losses: The Spartans lost Gregory Fitzmorris, Johnny Campbell, Nate Pettit, Alex Simpkins and Justin Perkins to graduation.

Overall projection of team’s chances in the Intermountain League: “I think our league will be very competitive,” Priest River coach Mark Schultz says. “We will continue to work hard in practice, and compete as hard as we can.” Priest River finished

Top prospects: freshmen Jantzen Lu-

See Page 15

‘Strive for Greatness’ West Bonner County School District 134 Main St. • Priest River, ID • 208-448-4439 PAGE 10

Tuesday, April 11 vs. Kettle Falls: 3 p.m. - PRLHS Saturday, April 15 vs. Timberlake: 11 a.m. - Timberlake High School Tuesday, April 18 vs. Kellogg: 4 p.m. - Kellogg High School Saturday, April 22 vs. Bonners Ferry: 11 a.m. - PRLHS Tuesday, April 25 vs. Timberlake: 4 p.m. - PRLHS Thursday, April 27 vs. St. Maries: 4:30 p.m. - PRLHS Saturday, April 29 vs. Kellogg: 11 a.m. - PRLHS Tuesday, May 2 vs. Bonners FErry: 4 p.m. - Bonners Ferry High School

Anthony Storro Senior #3

Hunter Hartwig Senior #7

Jordan Simcox Senior #13

Dylan Patterson Senior #30

Kody Kuprienko Junior #1

Cam Reeves Junior #12

Arran Jeter Junior #2

Dausen O’Brien Junior #4

Gavin Rogers Sophomore #15

Justin Allbee Freshman #10

Caden Brennan Freshman #11

Jantzen Lucas Freshman #14

Not pictured: Kanyan, Troup, Freshman #5 Lou Musso, Asst. Coach Doug Naccarato, Asst. Coach Jordon Munar, Asst. Coach Ashton Brooks, Asst. Coach Mark Schultz Head Coach 2017 Spring Sports Preview

SPARTAN SOFTBALL At the end of last year’s season, Priest River softball coach Rob DeMent said his team would be dangerous this season.

His thoughts on that haven’t changed.

Rachel Akre Senior #13

Taia Butler Senior #21

Morgan DeMent Senior #12

Elizabeth Downs Senior #11

Antonia Martin Senior #20

Savanna Storro Senior #6

Abby Barnes Sophomore #8

Emma Tawny Johnson Nichols Sophomore #10 Sophomore #9

Madison McNearney Senior #26

Jasmine Martin Sophomore #2

Tabitha Ritchie Sophomore #5

Natalie Randolph Freshman #1

Jesi Huntley Senior #22

Natalie Petit Sophomore #16

Heidi Janhsen Senior #4

Mersadez Hirst Senior #27

Rob DeMent Head Coach

Not pictured: Ron Kruse, Asst. Coach Larry Johnson, Asst. Coach

“We have a nice mix of power and speed at the plate. We bring back one of the top offensive players in the state from last year, in Morgan DeMent. If we are disciplined and hit around Morgan, we should score runs in bunches. Defensively, if we limit our errors and protect our pitchers, we should be very tough to beat.”

Top returnees: Seniors Morgan DeMent, Rachel Akre, Jesi Huntley, Taia Butler, Heidi Janhsen, Antonia Martin, Savanna Storro and Elizabeth Downs;

sophomores Tawny Nichols, Emma Johnson, Abby Barnes, Tabitha Richie and Natalie Petit Top prospects: Freshman Natalie Randolph is looking like an asset.

Key losses: Melissa Krampert graduated.

Overall projection of the team’s chances in the Intermountain League: “We are probably the No. 3 team at this point,” coach DeMent said. “Timberlake brings back a ton of talent from the district champion team last year. Bonners Ferry brings back the League MVP, Kadi Bateman as pitcher.

That said, I believe we’ll be in the mix to battle for a league championship and a state playoff berth.”

See Page 13

Thursday, March 30 vs. Troy: 4 p.m. - PRLHS Thursday, April 13 vs. Kettle Falls: 3 p.m. - Kettle Falls High School Saturday, April 15 vs. Timberlake: 11 a.m. - Timberlake High School Tuesday, April 18 vs. Kellogg: 4 p.m. - Kellogg High School Thursday, APril 20 vs. Troy: 5 p.m. - Troy High School Saturday, April 22 vs. Bonners Ferry: 11 a.m. - PRLHS Tuesday, April 25 vs. Timberlake: 4 p.m. - PRLHS Thursday, APril 27 vs. St. Maries: 4:30 p.m. - PRLHS Saturday, April 29 vs. Kellogg: 11 a.m. - PRLHS Tuesday, May 2 vs. Bonners Ferry: 4 p.m. - Bonners Ferry High School

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PAGE 11

SPARTAN TRACK & FIELD Over 30 students turned out for the Priest River Lamanna High School track and field team this year.

Top returnees: seniors Tommy Anselmo (sprints), Jacob Campbell (jumps), Corbin Maltba (pole vault), Clay Pelton (sprints/pole vault), Elizabeth Downs (sprints); juniors Drayven Ayers (sprints), Derrik Cook (jumps), Konner Durham (Hurdles), Spencer Sedgwick (sprints/jumps), Erik Moore (sprints/ jumps); sophomores Caleb Gleason (distance), Cameron Parks (distance), Brandon McCracken (mid-distance), Robbie Anselmo (sprints), Colby Poe (throws), and Aaron Reyes (throws).

Top prospects: Teagun Holycross (hurdles/sprints), Noah Martinez (hurdles), Chelsea Brown (sprints/jumps), Sharnai Hogan (distance), Shayla Martinez (sprints), Cassidy Prudek (hurdles/ sprints/jumps), Izzie Schmidt (middistance), and Enara Seiler (hurdles/ sprints).

top six for the Intermountain League Michael Taylor (sprints), Colin Dietrick (hurdles/jumps), Kenny Chesnut (distance), Teryn Hanes (throws), Megan Boyd (throws), and Josh Coombes (throws).

Overall projection of team’s chances in the league: =“For the boys, we have a very balanced and experienced group this year,” says coach Jared Hughes. “They are hardworking and should be contending for a top two finish in league.”

As for the girls, Hughes says that more female students turned out for the sport than last year. However, only one out of the 11 is a returnee. “They are talented, however, and should become competitive as a team by districts,” says Hughes.

Strengths: “For the boys we have a large number of quality returners,” says Hughes. “We are balanced in all the events (sprints, distance, relays,

Key losses: Students that placed in the

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Robbie Anselmo Sophomore

Thomas Anselmo Senior

Drayven Ayers Junior

Evan Barnes Sophomore

Chelsea Brown Freshman

Jacob Campbell Senior

Derrik Cook Junior

Elizabeth Downs Senior

Konner Durham Junior

Karliegh Durham Freshman

Jackson Gilliland Freshman

Dylan Glazier Junior

Caleb Gleason Sophomore

Sharnai Hogan Freshman

Teagun Holycross Freshman

Christina Lee Freshman

Corbin Maltba Senior

Noah Martinez Sophomore

2017 Spring Sports Preview

Track & Field Cont.

Friday, March 31 vs. Deer Park: Noon - Deer Park High School Wednesday, April 12 at IML Meet: 4 p.m. - Kellogg High School Saturday, April 15 at Kellogg Invite: 9:30 a.m. - Kellogg High School Thursday, April 20 at IML Meet: 4 p.m. - PRLHS Friday, April 28 vs. Timberlake: 2:30 p.m. - Timberlake High School Thursday, May 4 vs. Post Falls: 2:30 p.m. - Post Falls High School Friday, May 5 vs. Riverside: 3 p.m. - Riverside High School Thursday, May 11 vs. Timberlake: 4 p.m. - Timberlake High School Friday, May 12 vs. Timberlake: 4 p.m. - Timberlake High School

From Page 12 hurdles, jumps and throws) and should be very competitive in every meet we attend this year. As for the girls, our young team is talented in all the events; a tremendous freshmen class.”

Weaknesses: Hughes says that the boys are, “Still a little young” in the discus and shotput throws and distance running. Meanwhile, the girls’ have a lack of experience and numbers to compete with the larger schools.”

Head coach: Jared Hughes Age: 42 Coaching experience: Twentieth year coaching, 14th as head coach for Priest River Lamanna High School track

Strengths: Depth. Priest River returns 14 lettermen, they have five solid pitchers, and they’re deep in every position.

Weaknesses: No juniors. “We have a large group of experienced seniors, but we’re young after that. I’m hoping some of the sophomores will step up and take some of the open positions this year.”

Head Coach: Rob DeMent Age: 42 2017 Spring Sports Preview

Brandon McCracken Sophomore

Erik Moore Junior

Slava Nogrievev Sophomore

Bonin Nordby Freshman

Cameron Parks Sophomore

Clay Pelton Senior

Jordan Phillips Sophomore

Colby Poe Sophomore

Cassidy Prudek Freshman

Arron Reyes Sophomore

Izzie Schmidt Freshman

Jared Hughes Head Coach

Spencer Sedgwick Junior

Enara Seiler Senior

Sarah Trantum Freshman

Fisher Wingert Freshman

and field Teaching experience: Eighteenth year as science and physical edu- Lance Clark cation teacher Asst. Coach at Priest River Lamanna High School.

Jessica Mortensen Asst. Coach

Athletic experience: While attending Priest River High School Hughes played football, wrestled, and competed in track and field. In college, he competed four years in track and field at University of Idaho Assistant coaches: Lance Clark and Jessica Mortensen

PRIEST RIVER SOFTBALL From Page 11

Shayla Martinez Freshman

Coaching experience: This is DeMent’s second year as head coach. He was an assistant varsity coach for two years, and coach Little League and travel softball for 12 years.

Occupation: Operations technician at Ponderay Newsprint Co., for the past seven years.

Athletic experience: Three-sport athlete in high school, and played 10 years of competitive slow-pitch softball.

Assistant coaches: Ron Kruse and Larry Johnson

Christina Teft Sophomore

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2017 Spring Sports Preview

SPARTAN GOLF

Priest River Lamanna High School’s golf coach David Buttrey has stepped in to fill the void left this year by former coach Scott Salesky, who retired after 30 years coaching at Priest River.

Top returnees: junior Kody Salesky

Beverly Landros Sophomore

Madelynn Rusho Freshman

Conner Vaage Junior

Brittaney Millward Junior

Heather Pound Freshman

Ben Zapfe Freshman

Victoria Millward Sophomore

Tanner Cochrane Freshman

Maggee Pankoke Freshman

Kody Salesky Junior

Top prospects: Coach Buttrey says he expects freshmen Ben Zapfe, Maddelyn Rusho and Heather Pounds to live up to their potential.

Key losses: former coach Scott Salesky, according to Buttrey, and former seniors Mason Clark and Andrew Jeter.

Overall projection of team’s chance in league: Buttrey says that weather has hindered the team’s ability to practice, as the snow has kept them from utilizing the golf course and the team has had to practice inside. “We’ll show up and play competitively,” says Buttrey.

David Buttrey Head Coach

PRIEST RIVER BASEBALL From Page 10 third in the four-team Intermountain League last year, with a 2-5 regular season league record. Bonners Ferry went undefeated in league play last year and looks to be a favorite again this year.

Strengths: “Our attitudes and work ethics are great, these young men come to practice and work hard every day,” Schultz says. “We see ourselves as a team, which includes the good times as well as any bumps that may happen during the course of the season.”

Weaknesses: Getting out on a field and playing baseball has been a problem this snowy winter. Priest River has already had games with Newport and Selkirk canceled. Schultz says he would like the batters to become more 2017 Spring Sports Preview

consistent at the plate. Team defense and pitching are also areas that could use improvement.

Head coach: Mark Schultz Age: 49 Coaching experience: This will be his eighth varsity season, 15th season coaching.

Occupation: Paraprofessional at Priest River Lamanna High School Athletic experience: Graduated from Newport in 1985; he played football, basketball and baseball for the Grizzlies.

Assistant coaches: Lou Musso, Doug Naccarato, Jordon Munar and Ashton Brooks

Strengths: Buttrey says his team is, “Young, athletic and fast learners.”

Weaknesses: “Again, they are really young, which is kind of a double edged knife,” says Buttrey.

“Also, we’ve got a late start on the season because of the weather. You can only hit balls into a net so many times.”

Head coach: David Buttrey Age: 56 Coaching experience: First year coaching golf, 15 years experience coaching football, basketball, track and softball in Washington and Idaho, was a high school athletic director for seven years.

Teaching experience: Physical Education teacher at Priest River Lamanna High School for seven years.

Thursday, March 30 vs. Clark Fork: 2 p.m. - Priest River Thursday, April 13 vs. Timberlake: 10 a.m. - Timberlake Monday, April 17 vs. Bonners Ferry: TBA - Bonners Ferry Wednesday, April 19 vs. Timberlake: TBA - Timberlake Thursday, April 20 vs. Bonners Ferry: 10 a.m. - Bonners Ferry Tuesday, May 2 vs. Kellogg: TBA - Priest River

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••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• ••••••••• Start here... Go anywhere!•••••••••••••••••• ••••••••• www.nic.edu•••••••••••••••••• PAGE 15

Cusick High School - Panthers • Baseball - Page 18 • Softball - Page 19 • Track and Field - Page 19

PANTHER BASEBALL

Nate Allen Freshman #24

Roddy Pierre Junior #11

CJ Balcom Junior #23

Dylan Reijonen Eighth Grade #15

Colton Hansen Junior #6

Tanner Shanholtzer Junior #8

Ethan Dylan Hardie Hendershott Sophomore #13 Junior #4

Trevor Shanholtzer Freshman #21

Tell Hamilton Asst. Coach

Canon Keogh Freshman #20

Randy Herzon Head Coach

Not pictured: Joey Loescher, Freshman #12

Saturday, April 1 at Columbia: Noon – Columbia High School Tuesday, April 11 vs. Northport: 2 p.m. – Cusick High School Saturday, April 15 vs. Almira/Coulee-Harline: Noon – Cusick H.S. Tuesday, April 18 vs. Curlew: 2 p.m. – Cusick High School Tuesday, April 25 vs. Selkirk: 2 p.m. - Selkirk High School Saturday, April 29 vs. Republic: Noon - Republic High School Tuesday, May 2 vs. Odessa-Harrington: 2 p.m. - O-H Tuesday, May 9 at District Tournament: TBA Saturday, May 13 at District Tournament: TBA May 19-20 at Regional Tournament: TBA May 26-27 at State Tournament: TBA - Ellensburg

With only 11 players out, the Panthers’ players will all see plenty of action. Cusick will have a new coach, as Tell Hamilton stepped down and Randy Herzon took over as head coach, although Hamilton will assist. Herzon is optimistic. “We have a small group of motivated players with lots of potential,” he says.

There is a new pitch count rule this year that will limit pitchers to a maximum of 100 pitches. When that number is reached, the player has to come out of the game and can’t pitch again for three days. The rule for many years was based on the number of innings a pitcher threw, rather than pitches. Pitchers who threw four or more innings were required to not pitch for two days. The change is designed to protect young pitchers’ arms.

Top returnees: Juniors CJ Balcom, Colton Hansen, Dylan Hendershott, Canon Keogh, Roddy Pierre and Tanner Shanholtzer are the top returners for Cusick. They’ve been on the varsity since they were freshmen.

Sophomore Ethan Hardi and freshmen Trevor Shanholtzer and Nate Allen round out the returners.

Top prospects: Freshman Joey Loescher and eighth grader Dylan Reijonen Key losses: Tyson Shanholtzer, Franklin Pope, Joe Cutshall all graduated.

Pope and Shanholtzer were named to the league’s All Opponent team last year.

Overall projection of team’s chances in the Northeast 1B North League: Herzon predicts his team will finish in the top four of the eight-team league.

Strengths: The Rangers have dedication and a strong work ethic, Herzon See Page 19

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2017 Spring Sports Preview

PANTHER SOFTBALL

Taylor Selica Allen Auld Sophomore #30 Junior #10

Kaitie Hulet Junior #11

Anwyn Anderberg Eighth Grade #4

Emma Hardie Sophomore #12

Chanelle Hunt Sophomore #24

Rylee Brown Junior #1

Samantha Mason Freshman #14

Jalyna Castillo Freshman #3

Jacki Sage Senior #25

Lilli Cupp Junior #8

Amy Reijonen Sophomore #39

Not pictured: Jethro Allen, Asst. Coach Candea Smartlowitt, Asst. Coach Allison Reijonen, Sophomore #39 Talieya Tonasket Senior #2

Monica Allen Head Coach

Saturday, April 1 at Columbia: Noon – Columbia High School Tuesday, April 11 vs. Northport: 2 p.m. – Cusick High School Saturday, April 15 vs. Almira/Coulee-Harline: Noon – Cusick H.S. Tuesday, April 18 vs. Curlew: 2 p.m. – Cusick High School Tuesday, April 25 vs. Selkirk: 2 p.m. - Selkirk High School Saturday, April 29 vs. Republic: Noon - Republic High School Saturday, May 6 at District Tournament: TBA - Kettle Falls May 12-13 at Regional Tournament: TBA - Medical Lake Saturday, May 20 at Regional Tournament: TBA - Medical Lake May 26-27 at State Tournament: TBA - Yakima

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2017 Spring Sports Preview

Coming off a successful season last year – finishing one game away from a trip to the state tournament – the Cusick softball team looks to be a strong contender in the Northeast 1B League. But, they graduated three key players and the young team lacks experience by some players. And the weather hasn’t helped.

“I am looking forward to great season, and actually getting out on the field as soon as it dries out and becomes playable,” coach Monica Allen said before season play started. “Also, I have been very pleased with the way that these girls work together as a team.”

Top returnees: Seniors Talieya Tonasket and Jacki Sage; juniors Lilli Cupp, Katie Hulet and Rylee Brown; sophomores Taylor Allen, Amy Reijonen, Selica Auld, Chanelle Hunt and Emma Hardie

Freshmen and Underclassmen: Jalayna Castillo, Samantha Mason, Allison Nomee and eighth grader Anwyn Anderberg Key losses: Reigan Allen, Cassidy Hansen and Brianna Balcolm graduated.

Overall projection of the team’s chances in the Northeast 1B North League: Coach Allen believes Cusick will finishe in the top three.

Strengths: The Panthers’ overall knowledge of the game from past seasons’ experience, and both offensive and defensive strategies are strengths.

Weaknesses: There are a few new players on the team that have never played or even touched a ball before.

“We do have a young team, but they look very promising,” coach Allen said.

Head Coach: Monica Allen See Page 19

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Top returnees: Seniors Alana Keogh, Michael Mike Grzechowiak, Wyatt ShanKeogh Asst. Coach holtzer, Bryce Nomee and Alberto Magaña; juniors Gracie StrangeOwl and Will Pierre; sophomores Jessica Hankey and Nicole Stensgar, and freshman Jaden Cox. Key Losses: Former seniors Val Keogh, Josh Keogh and Rachelle Busby.

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Jenni Jones Head Coach

On the team’s chances in the Northeast 1B North League: “I think we will do well,” says Cusick track and field coach Jenni Jones.

“On the girls team we have four that competed at State last year and did well. I’m looking forward to all five stepping up to the plate and competing strong. I am so excited this year to have a boys’ team! In years past we had boys on the team, but you have to have five to get points as a team.

They are a great group of young men and I think they will do well.”

Strengths: Jones alluded to her See Page 19

Tuesday, April 11 at Davenport: TBD - Davenport Tuesday, April 18 at Springdale: TBD - Springdale Saturday, April 22 at Priest River Invite: TBD - Priest River Thursday, April 27 vs. St. George’s: TBD - Mead Saturday, April 29 at Underberg Invite: TBD - Ritzville Tuesday, May 2 at League Meet: TBD Friday, May 5 at Riverside Twilight: TBD - Riverside Tuesday, May 9 at Districts: TBD - Riverside May 19-20 at Regionals: TBD May 25-27 at State: TBD - Eastern Washington University

2017 Spring Sports Preview

CUSICK TRACK From Page 18 teams’ willingness to train hard and their competitive edge. “The kids work really hard and I am very fortunate to have them on the team,” says Jones. “They push each other and are very positive. I’m happy to have a great group of athletes.”

Weaknesses: Like other coaches in the area, Jones cited the wet, snowy weather as a hindrance to practice.

“We haven’t been able to get on the track yet due to weather conditions,” Jones said early in the season. However, a late start doesn’t stop Jones from looking at the positive side.

“Looking forward to a strong season and if they continue to work hard, we will definitely be in the hunt for State

this year,” she said.

Age: 41 Coaching experience: Allen coach Little League for eight years. In 2012, she took the Juniors Little League team to Regionals in Tucson, Ariz. This is her fourth year as the high school head coach, and she was a volunteer high school coach for a year prior to

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Head Coach: Jenni Jones Age: 42 Coaching Experience: Fourth season coaching track as the head coach Occupation: Case Manager for the Kalispel Tribe of Indians Athletic Experience: Jones played sports in junior high and high school, including volleyball, basketball, track, cross country and softball. She enjoys participating in any sporting activity.

“Plus, I am still competitive and I feel that helps with my coaching,” says Jones.

Assistant Coach: Mike Keogh

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Teaching experience: Allen is a para-educator at Cusick School District, and an emergency certified substitute teacher.

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Athletic experience: She played high school softball and volleyball.

Assistant coaches: Jethro Allen, Candea Smartlowitt

CUSICK BASEBALL From Page 16 said.

Weaknesses: He counts a lack of seniors as a weakness.

Head coach: Randy Herzon Age: 53 Coaching experience: Herzon has coached Little League through Babe Ruth baseball for 10 years. He has also umpired some. This will be his first year at Cusick.

Occupation: Herzon operates Whiskers Kisses Koalition, an animal 2017 Spring Sports Preview

care and rescue non-profit based in Oldtown.

Athletic experience: Herzon has played baseball most his life, Little League through 30 and over leagues.

He is also an experienced softball player. He played college baseball for Humbolt State University. “I live and breath baseball,” he says. He also has a career bowling average of 206.

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Selkirk High School - Rangers • Baseball - Page 20 • Softball - Page 21 • Track and Field - Page 22

RANGER BASEBALL

Brayden Taylor Senior #20

Ben Avey Senior #22

Quintin White Senior #33

Calvin Petrich Junior #1

Peter McAnerin Junior #7

Bradley Sargent Junior #27

Chase Miller Sophomore #18

Jay Link Freshman #10

Ryan Zimmerman Freshman #23

Ty Taylor Freshman #12

Calvin Rood Junior #13

Zech Curran Freshman #34

Jeremy Link Head Coach

Dan Zimmerman Asst. Coach

Aiden Penney Freshman #3

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With 14 players turning out, the Rangers don’t have a lot of players. They are under the guidance of a new coach, Jeremy Link, who is also the Ranger football coach. The team only has two seniors and three juniors, so it is young.

Top returnees: Seniors Braden Taylor and Ben Avey and juniors Calvin Petrich, Bradley Sargent and Peter McAnerin all started last year and are returning. Taylor will play first base and pitch, Avey will play in the outfield, Petrich will play in the outfield and pitch, as will Sargent and Bradley.

Top prospects: Freshmen Jay Link, Ryan Zimmerman and Ty Taylor have promise, coach Jeremy Link says. Link will pitch and play shortstop, Zimmerman will play second base and pitch and Taylor will play third base and pitch.

Key losses: The Rangers lost Logan Miller and Joey Dickenson to graduation. They will also be without the play of Jacob Couch, who was the Rangers’

sole selection for the league’s All Opponent team last year but isn’t playing baseball this year.

Overall projection of team’s chances in the Northeast 1B North League: The Rangers finished fifth in the eight-team Northeast 1B league last season, with a 5-9 league record. They were 7-13 overall. Link sees the Rangers finishing in the middle of the league, with a good chance at Districts. Last year Republic won the league and went to state. Link looks to Almira/Coulee-Hartline and Odessa-Harrington, which finished second and third in the league, to do well this season.

Strengths: Link says the team has good leadership from the upperclassmen and is athletic.

Weaknesses: Overall, the team is young, Link says. “The younger guys have played about as much as some of the older players, but they’re not super big yet,” Link says. He also doesn’t have See Page 23

Saturday, April 1 vs. Curlew: Noon - Curlew High School Tuesday, April 11 vs. Republic: 2 p.m. - Republic High School Saturday, April 15 vs. Odessa-Harrington: Noon - O-H Tuesday, April 18 vs. Northport: 2 p.m. - Selkirk High School Saturday, April 22 vs. Almira/Coulee-Hartline: Noon - ACH Tuesday, April 25 vs. Cusick: 2 p.m. - Selkirk High School Tuesday, May 2 vs. LV Rogers: 3 p.m. - Selkirk High School Tuesday, May 9 at Districts: TBA Saturday, May 13 at Districts: TBA Friday, May 19-20 at Regionals: TBA May 26-27 at State: TBA - Yakima

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2017 Spring Sports Preview

RANGER SOFTBALL

Lexy Ellsworth Senior

Ellen Huttle Junior

Ashland Robertson Junior

MyKenzie Maupin Junior

Whitney Dawson Sophomore

Jenna Couch Sophomore

Paige Raymond Sophomore

Destiny Evens Sophomore

Shelby Rood Freshman

Sierra Chantry Junior

Alison Petrich Freshman

Mike Mondich Head Coach

Auburn Lindquist Junior

Mary Huttle Sophomore

The Selkirk softball team is returning all last year’s team, and that should bode well for the Rangers, who advanced to the regional tournament last year. They lost in the first round then, but a seasoned team this year should do well, if they can gain confidence in their abilities.

Top returnees: Senior Lexy Elsworth; juniors Ellen Huttle, Ashland Robertson,

MyKenzie Maupin, Auburn Lindquist, Sierra Chantry; sophomores Whitney Dawson, Jenna Couch, Paige Raymond, Destiney Evens and Mary Huttle Top prospects: Freshman Alison Petrich and Shelby Rood will make a contribution this year, according to head coach Mike Mondich.

Key losses: The team didn’t graduate any See Page 23

Saturday, April 1 vs. Curlew: Noon - Curlew High School Tuesday, April 11 vs. Republic: 2 p.m. - Republic High School Tuesday, April 18 vs. Northport: 2 p.m. - Selkirk High School Saturday, April 22 vs. Almira/Coulee-Hartline: Noon - ACH Tuesday, April 25 vs. Cusick: 2 p.m. - Selkirk High School Saturday, May 20 at Regionals: TBA May 26-27 at State: TBA - Yakima

Not pictured: Ian Coon, Asst. Coach

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PAGE 21

RANGER TRACK AND FIELD The Selkirk High School Rangers are ready to hit the track (if the weather cooperates).

There are 32 athletes on this year’s track and field team.

Keith Anderson Senior

Emma Avey Junior

Kaitlyn Chantry Freshman

Kiara Curran Junior

Ryan Issakides Junior

Justin Krabbenhoft Freshman

Zayren Bubb Senior

Bree Dawson Eighth

Megan Marshall Sophomore

Bert Burnett Eighth

Tristian Carman Senior

Wyatt George Sophomore

Katie Dewey Senior

Steven Issakides Freshman

Parker Jenkins Sophomore

Brandon McNaughton Sophomore

Amanda Johns Senior

Connor Stark Sophomore

Top returnees: Seniors Katie Dewey, Amanda Johns, Zayren Bubb, Tristan Carman, Austin Robertson; juniors Kiara Curran, Ryan Issakides; Sophomores Parker Jenkins, Wyatt George, Chris Noble, Connor Stark, Megan Marshall; Freshmen Justin Krabben-

hoft and Steven Issakides.

Top prospects: Selkirk High School track and field coach Susan Vermeulen says she expects good things from Zayren Bubb, Katie Dewey, Austin Robertson, Tristan Chantry, Ryan Issakides, Parker Jenkins, Steven Issakides and Justin Krabbenhoft.

Key losses: Former seniors Lauren McGeorge, Dana Riggleman, Jaden See Page 23

Friday, Mar 31 at Deer Park Invite: Deer Park Tuesday, April 11 at NE 1B / 2B League meet: Davenport Tuesday, April 18 at NE 1B / 2B League Meet: Valley Christian Saturday, April 22 at Priest River Invitational: Priest River Tuesday, April 25 at NE 1B / 2B League Meet: Republic Saturday, April 29 at Undeberg Invite: Ritzville Tuesday, May 2 at NE 1B Championships: TBD Friday, May 5 at Riverside Twilight Invite: Riverside Tuesday, May 9 at NE / SE 1B District Championships: Riverside May 19-20 at NE / SE 1B Regional Meet: Central Valley Thursday, May 25 at 1A, 2B, 1B State Championship Meet: EWU

W e S al u te o u r R angers Chris Noble Sophomore

Slade Powers Freshman

Not Pictured: Jacob Arman, Freshman Kayla Emerson, Eighth Grade Alva Engquist, Senior Soraya Framke, Junior Elias Hill, Freshman Nathan Johns, Eighth Grade Mia Mewhinney, Freshman Samantha Sexton, Freshman Fallon Stoddard, Eighth Grade Chris Williams, Sophomore Quinn Zimmerman, Sophomore Jill Sotendahl, Volunteer Coach Josh Ross, Volunteer Coach

Austin Robertson Senior

Wyatt Stoddard Senior

n a r o

G PAGE 22

Susan Vermeulen Head Coach

Cathy McGeorge Asst. Coach

Selkirk School District

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2017 Spring Sports Preview

SELKIRK TRACK From Page 22 Krabbenhoft, Steven Avey, Brady Filler, Noah Bailey, and Bryce Seaney.

Overall projection of team’s chances in the league: “We are a larger team this year with some amazing freshman talent,” says Vermeulen.

“I can’t really say how we will compare to the other teams as we haven’t competed yet; however, I do know that we will be very competitive.”

Strengths: “We have a strong returning team with lots of new athletes to our team that have been very active with other school sports throughout the year,” says Vermeulen.

Weaknesses: Like many coaches in the area, Vermeulen says the weather has been stifling practice. “We can’t

find our track or field for all the snow still on the athletic facilities,” Vermeulen says. “This has made practices consisting of running in the halls, which isn’t the best situation.”

Head coach: Susan Vermeulen Age: 55 Coaching experience: 17 years coaching Selkirk track and field Teaching experience: Substitute teacher for Selkirk School District Athletic experience: Vermeulen did track and field in high school

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SELKIRK BASEBALL From Page 20 a lot of players, just 13.

Head coach: Jeremy Link Age: 40 Coaching experience: Link coaches the Ranger football team. As far as baseball, he has more than 10 years coaching experience, coaching several

seasons of Little League baseball and a year each of AA and A American Legion baseball.

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players last year.

Overall projection of the team’s chances in the Northeast 1B League: “(We) should be competitive,” coach Mondich said.

Almira/Coulee-Hartline went to the play at state last year, and Cusick was one game away from the state tournament.

Strengths: The Panthers are smart and athletic.

Weaknesses: They’re lacking confidence in their abilities, Mondich said.

2017 Spring Sports Preview

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Athletic experience: Link, a 1994 Selkirk graduate, played football, basketball and baseball for the Rangers.

Assistant coaches: Dan Zimmerman

SELKIRK SOFTBALL From Page 21

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Head coach: Mike Mondich Age: 48 Coaching experience: “Countless years coaching four children from the bleachers,” Mondich joked. He coached middle school softball for three years, and this is his third year as the Selkirk head softball coach.

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