South Seven: Boys BY GEARY DENISTON FOR THE SOUTHERN
Carbondale The Terriers return only two and a half starters from last year’s 14-13 team that finished tied for third in the conference at 5-5. Coach Jim Miller lost two starters to graduation in honorable mention all-conference forward Brandon Reno and forward DeVonte Ramey, but unexpectedly he will also have to replace All-South and allconference guard Connor Wheeler, who transferred to Du Quoin, and key reserve Judious Kizeart. “It’s not always the best players that make the best team, and it’s been really nice not having drama so far,” Miller said. “Good
chemistry makes average teams better and bad chemistry makes good teams average.” Miller does have firstteam All-South and allconference guard Ty Neal back as well as center Bruce Day and guard Tyrone Davis. “Ty is a four-year starter for us,” Miller said. “Bruce started last year, and Tyrone was a part-time starter. We’re real excited to have their leadership back.” Vying for the open jobs are seniors guard Gary Dysart, forward Artemus Burnett and forward Will Kuykendoll and junior forward Edwin Harris. Coach: Jim Miller Seniors: TY NEAL, 5-10, g; TYRONE DAVIS, 5-9, g/f; BRUCE DAY, 6-6, c; Gary Dysart, 5-10, g/f; Artemus Burnett, 5-11, f; Will Kuykendoll, 5-11, f; Tre Wright, 6-0, f.
Juniors: Edwin Harris, 6-2, f; Chris Williams, 5-10, f. Sophomores: Marqui Edmonds, 6-0, f/c; Jarron Warren, 6-0, f.
Marion Last year, Marion had a hard time in the South Seven, finishing last with a 1-9 record. The Wildcats were much better outside the conference, going 13-7 to finish just under .500 at 14-16. “We were counting on Nick Lewis last year, but when he got hurt, we were forced to move some guys in who hadn’t played varsity before,” said coach Aaron Mattox. “This year we may have only two starters back, but we have seven guys who played significant minutes last year.” Mattox needs to find three new starters with only second-team all-conference 6-foot-7 forward senior Aaron Adeoye and senior guard Troy Stucky back as starters. Six-foot-
eight junior Jared Ellis will take over the post position. “I think we can be good defensively,” Mattox said. “Offensively, we think with our size up front it will be difficult for teams to match up with us if we can get the basketball inside. We’ve also got guys who can run the floor, so I’m excited about our level of athleticism compared to years past.” Stucky will move to point guard with seniors Blake Gibbons and Jeff Clark, juniors Cody Luckett and Jay Riley and sophomores Eddie Webb and Juwan Tucker in the mix at the three guard spots. Coach: Aaron Mattox Seniors: AARON ADEOYE, 6-7, f; TROY STUCKY, 510, g; Jeff Clark, 6-1, g; Blake Gibbons, 5-10, g; Devante Payne, 6-2, f. Juniors: Brody DeMattei, 6-1, f; Jared Ellis, 6-8, c; Cody Luckett, 6-0, g; Jay Riley, 6-0, g; Gabe Attkinson, 5-11, g; Jacob Ross, 5-11, g; Shawn Bowen, 6-2, f. Sophomores: Eddie Webb, 5-8, g; Juwan Tucker, 5-11, g.
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South Seven: Girls BY GEARY DENISTON FOR THE SOUTHERN
Carbondale The Carbondale Terriers return three starters from the team that went 15-12 and finished fourth (4-6) in the South Seven. “We still are thin in the paint so, as always, we’re going to be an up-tempo team and have to find kids who are willing to spot up and try to nail some 3s for us,” said coach Marialice Jenkins. Jenkins returns All-South second-team, all-conference shooting guard junior Elaina Robinson, along with junior forward Ryley Miller and sophomore point guard Sarah Goodale. “Elaina has proven she is a very consistent outside shooter,” Jenkins said. “Sarah handles the ball for us 90 percent of the time, but we want her to be more of a shooter. Ryley is down there in the trenches doing all the dirty work — getting loose balls, rebounds and getting the ball to the right people.” Jenkins will be looking to find replacements for wing guard Alexa Miller and shooting guard Marissa Fulk in senior Lacey Armit, junior Loren Scott, sophomores Bobbie Harris and Zamorrow Glispie, and freshman McKena Miller. Coach: Marialice Jenkins Seniors: Lacey Armit, 5-8, f/c; LaTrae Feaster, 5-8, f. Juniors: ELAINA ROBINSON, 5-8, g; RYLEY MILLER, 5-7, f; Loren Scott, 5-6, g. Sophomores: SARAH GOODALE, 5-8, g/f; Bobbie Harris, 5-8, f/c; Zamorrow Glispie, 5-6, g; Kristy Scally, 5-7, f. Freshmen: McKena Miller, 5-11, g/f.
Marion Last year, Jeff Tarlton took over the reins of the Marion Lady Wildcats after being an assistant on the boys team. He had to watch his new team go through
some growing pains. Marion finished dead last in the South Seven (0-10), but showed progress at the end of the season to finish 1019. “We started competing down the stretch and beat Mount Vernon after three losses to them in the first round of the regionals,” Tarlton said. “So we felt good about the future knowing we were only losing three players, no matter how good they were. This year, Tarlton has four starters back in All-South, first-team all-conference guard senior Lindsay Lenon, senior guard Mallori Chamness, senior forward Brittany Rooney and junior point guard Ieasha Clark. “Lindsay is a very gifted player and a good shooter,” Tarlton said. Coach: Jeff Tarlton Seniors: LINDSAY LENON, 5-8, g; MALLORI CHAMNESS, 5-5, g; BRITTANY ROONEY, 5-9, f; Shy Mofield, 5-7, f. Juniors: IEASHA CLARK, 5-5, g; Mistiree Stanley, 56, f. Sophomores: Zhate’ Jackson, 5-5, g; Cortney Williams, 5-4, g; Dailey Williams, 5-4, g. Freshmen: Montana Schafer, 6-0, f; Asiah Kendrick, 5-10, f; Cydney Paul, 5-5, g; Emily Dickman, 5-4, g; Megan Lewis, 5-6, f; Jessica Rauch, 5-5, f.
Belleville Althoff The Belleville Althoff Crusaders (24-8) have dominated the South Seven, winning the title six years in a row while sweeping the league the past three years. Coach Lori Crunk lost only two seniors and returns a young team that includes only two seniors. Crunk has big shoes to fill in replacing her daughter, Jordyne, the South Seven MVP, at point guard and first-team all-conference shooting guard Jazmin Hill. “A lot of people think we’re going to be down, but I disagree because we have a pretty good returning three,” Crunk said. “We almost made it to state last year and that helped the
younger girls grow and be ward/center senior Sadie ready.” Taylor, have both quality and experience. Coach: Lori Crunk “We lost two players Seniors: AMARAH BROOKS-WILLIAMS, 6-2, c; JANEL WHITWORTH, 5-9, g. who gave us an inside presJuniors: ALECE SHUMPERT, 5-7, g; Abby Allard, 5-3, ence and rebounding in g; Heather Dudon, 5-6, g. Sophomores: Mary Cardines, 5-7, g/f; Whitney Ciera Cunningham and Harris, 6-2, f; Kimber Hill, 6-2, f; Jazmine Samantha Gierten,” Stieg Stubblefield, 5-7, g; Hailey Schlett, 5-9, f; La’Quita said. Bostitch, 5-4, g.
Cahokia The Cahokia Comanches (16-12) return four starters from last year’s team that finished third in the South Seven (6-4). Coach Fred Dancy will have to replace his starting backcourt in point guard Patria Hill and shooting guard Kandice Travis. Dancy returns four girls who started some last year including first-team allconference forward junior Whitney Henderson and second-team all-conference senior forward Fredrika Walker along with senior forward Carmella Collier and junior guard Diamond Suggs. “We look for our top three returning starters Whitney, Fredrika and Carmella to be a force defensively,” Dancy said. Coach: Fred Dancy Seniors: FREDRIKA WALKER, 5-11, g; CARMELLA COLLIER, 5-10, f; Jessica Long, 6-0, c; Jasmine Prather, 5-6, f; Amber Williams, 5-6, g. Juniors: WHITNEY HENDERSON, 6-0, c/f; DIAMOND SUGGS, 5-10, g; Machalia Dew, 5-8, g/f; Takesha Gibson, 6-0, c; Shyniece Manuel, 5-0, g; Mitanesha Moffett, 5-8, f; Deairelle Ivy, 5-10, g/f. Sophomores: Tekia Cooper, 5-11, c; Daria Dills, 510, f; Danielle Hooch, 5-8, g.
Centralia The Centralia Orphan Annies lost three starters from last year’s team that finished 19-12 and second in the South Seven with an 8-2 record. The Orphan Annies’ only losses were to six-time defending champion Belleville Althoff. Coach Roger Stieg may have to find three new starters, but his two returnees, All-South and first-team all-conference guard senior Hannah Shores and honorable mention all-conference for-
Coach: Roger Stieg Seniors: HANNAH SHORES, 5-8, g; SADIE TAYLOR, 5-9, f/c; Shamirah Willis, 5-1, g; Caitlin Hermeling, 57, g/f; Lindsey Branson, 5-6, g. Juniors: Khadija Brown-Haywood, 5-8, g; Darryl Lusch, 5-7, f/c; Ashton Doza, 5-7, f; Kaitlin Murphy, 54, g. Sophomores: Danielle Meadows, 5-7, f.
Mount Vernon Jeff Lonnon’s first year after taking over Sara Rennie wasn’t easy. The Lady Rams finished fifth in the South Seven at 2-8 and 5-19 overall. “Last year was rough with a lot of growing pains,” Lonnon said. “This year I have as young a team as I’ve ever had. But the girls I have back gained a lot of character persevering through it all and want nothing to do with that kind of year again.” Lonnon has one starter back in All-South and second-team all-conference forward senior Ronita Long and two sophomores, Cheyene Piper and Jessica Green. Coach: Jeff Lonnon Seniors: RONITA LONG, 5-7, f; Alli Reed, 5-8, f. Juniors: CHEYENE PIPER, 5-8, g; JESSICA GREEN, 5-5, f; Morghan Zedalis, 5-11, c; Alexis Rollinson, 58, f. Sophomores: Hailey Lockhart, 5-9, c; Kelby Kujawa, 5-9, f; Aaliyah Palmer, 5-7, f; Betsy Kueker, 5-3, g; Natalie Williamson, 5-11, c; Whitney Warner, 5-5, f; Julia NcCrary, 5-5, g.
SOUTH SEVEN: Boys ready FROM PAGE 2
Belleville Althoff Last year, the Crusaders won their first South Seven title, almost sweeping the board (9-1), losing only to second-place Centralia. Althoff then lost the regional final to Cahokia and finished 21-9. “Winning the South Seven for the first time in school history was special, especially how good our conference is,” said coach Greg Leib. Coach: Greg Leib Seniors: CARSON SONNENBERG, 6-5, f; David Franklin, 6-4, f; Tyler Francis, 6-2, f; Jerry Costello, 6-3, f; Keith Sanders, 6-1, g. Juniors: Nesh Quarles, 6-2, f/c; Eldon Salmond, 5-10, g.
Cahokia Even though Cahokia had trouble in the South Seven, finishing tied for third with Carbondale at 5-5, the Comanches (24-10) had a great finish, winning their third straight regional title and advancing to the supersectional for the first time since 1985. Coach Darian Nash has a big task after losing five key players. “It’ll be hard to replace those guys, but we’ll be competitive,” Nash said.
Centralia Last year, Centralia won
its first regional title since 2003 and finished second in the South Seven (8-2) before advancing to the sectional final where they lost to Cahokia. The Orphans finished 25-7. Coach Lee Bennett has a rebuilding job to do. “I really don’t know who is going to be on the court this year,” Bennett said. oach: Lee Bennett Seniors: R.J. KWIATKOWSKI, 6-2, g; Desmond Rush, 5-10, g; Alex Fritch, 6-2, f; Mark McConnaughay, 6-2, f; DeVontre Whitelow, 6-0, f; Tyler Obermeier, 6-3, f. Juniors: DANIEL WESTBROOK, 5-9, g. Freshmen: Jake Wood, 6-1, f.
Mount Vernon The Mount Vernon Rams are coming off a down year, finishing 2-8 in the conference and 11-18 overall. However, with seven seniors and four starters back, coach Scott Gamber hopes things will be better this year. “Last year was a disappointment, but hopefully, we gained a lot of experience,” Gamber said. “We were in a lot of games, but were unable to finish the deal and we struggled on the road.” Returning to the starting lineup are four seniors. Coach: Scott Gamber Seniors: KELLIN EDWARDS, 6-1, g; KEVON FORTNEY, 6-1, g; DORVONTOUS GORDON, 6-4, c; CAMERON TUCKER, 6-3, f; Davonte Brooks, 5-10, g/f; Ian Randolph, 6-4, f/c; Blake Deaton, 5-11, g. Juniors: Tyril Trimble, 5-9, g; Clay Payne, 6-3, g; Zach Jones, 5-11, g. Sophomores: Travis Mitchell, 6-0, g; Colton Meader, 6-3, f.
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SIRR Mississippi: Boys BY PETE SPITLER THE SOUTHERN
Anna-Jonesboro Although hired a bit late, new Anna-Jonesboro coach Mike Chamness hopes to improve on last season’s 16-14 record. Promoted to the head role in mid-August, he will have three starters to work with in his first season with the Wildcats. “They’re looking pretty good,” Chamness said of his players. “I thought last year, at times, we didn’t practice the way we should have. I think we’re going hard and not just going through the motions.” Tylor Duckworth, Cody Livesay and Brady Wright will have the most responsibility as the team’s
returning starters, but leadership shouldn’t be a problem with 14 upperclassmen. “I expect to be competitive,” Chamness said. “I told the kids that I was probably the most competitive person out of everybody out there. I expect us to be in the thick of things.” Height shouldn’t be an issue either, not with the 6-foot-7 Duckworth being complemented by 6-3 Alex Lefevre and the 6-3 Wright. Coach: Mike Chamness Seniors: TYLOR DUCKWORTH, 6-7, c; Brady Carter, 5-11, g; Alex Lefevre, 6-3, f; CODY LIVESAY 5-11, g; Eric Flamm, 5-9, g; Chad Mayes, 5-8, g. Juniors: Jaden Ayers, 6-0, g; BRADY WRIGHT, 63, f; Travis Smith, 6-1, g; Dalton Baker, 6-1, g; Cody Garver, 5-8, g; Brent Goforth, 5-10, g; Caleb Mixen, 5-7, g; Jarid Veronesi, 5-11, g. Sophomores: Josh Belford, 5-9, g; Evan Hughey, 6-1, f. Freshmen: Tyler Vaughn, 6-0, g; Ben McFarland,
Go Panthers!
6-3, c; Jay Kemp, 6-2, f; Colton James, 5-11, g; Trey Pender, 5-6, g, Sammy Houseright, 5-5, g.
Carterville Carterville begins its first season in the conference with a group of six players who all saw some sort of starting time last season as part of the Lions’ 13-18 campaign. Ryan Bonifield is one of the impact players Carterville has back, and Drew Bonner, Zach Watson, Zach Halterman, Logan Mann and Nick Bonner all return for their senior year. Bonifield was the Lions’ lone representative on the Black Diamond West all-conference team last season. “Ryan has become such a big rebounder,” said Carterville coach Scott
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Burzynski of his 6-foot-4 senior forward. “He’s made big strides. He was decent at (rebounding) his sophomore year and had a good year last year.” The Lions won six more games last season opposed to 2008-09 and hope to return to a more physical style of play to contend with their tough SIRR Mississippi conference foes. Coach: Scott Burzynski Seniors: RYAN BONIFIELD, 6-4, f; DREW BONNER, 6-0, g; NICK BONNER, 6-1, g; ZACH HALTERMAN, 6-2, c; LOGAN MANN, 5-10, c; ZACH WATSON, 6-5, g. Juniors: Zach Bollman, 5-10, g; Curtis Pitt, 6-2, f; Dalton Samuel, 6-3, c. Sophomores: Kyle Adams, 5-10, f; Dalton Brown, 5-10, g; Tyler Horn, 6-3, c; Lucas Hunter, 5-11, g; Travis Kidd, 6-2, g. Freshman: Michael Ascherman, 5-10, g.
Du Quoin
Crews, and he’ll have senior J.C. Davis, who recently signed to play baseball at Southern Illinois University, to build around in 2009-10. “So far, so good,” Sveda said. “Our goal is to just get better every day and play as hard as we can in the time we have together.” The Indians graduated seven seniors after last year’s run, and will look to a group of four seniors and seven juniors to defend their conference title this season. Du Quoin has solid size at the center position, with Jesse McDicken and Brandon Williams. Coach: Gabe Sveda Seniors: J.C. DAVIS, 5-11, g; Seth Baxter, 6-0, g; Connor Wheeler, 6-1, g; James Williams, 5-11, g. Juniors: Jonathon Boss, 6-2, f; Cayle Diggins, 6-1, g; John Galik, 6-2, g; Sam Gossett, 6-3, f; Jesse McDicken, 6-5, c; Levi Porter, 5-10, g; Brandon Williams, 6-4, c.
Just one starter and three lettermen return from last year’s 25-6 team that won the conference with a 9-1 Nashville record. New coach Gabe Nashville begins the seaSveda takes over for Mike son with one of its most
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Coach: Brad Weathers Seniors: GANNON MAMELL, 5-10, g; TYLER MEYER, 5-11, g; Daniel Huge, 6-0, g; ZACH FIEBER, 6-0, g; SCOTT POLCZYNSKI, 6-2, f; SAM BROWN, 62, g/f; Alex Lietz, 6-0, f; Jared Meier, 6-3, f; DONOVAN HOLLE, 6-6, c. Sophomore: Scott Brown, 6-1, g.
SIRR MISSISSIPPI / PAGE 14
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important pieces already on the shelf. Senior guard Gannon Mamell tore his lateral meniscus during football season and had surgery Nov. 12 with a recovery time of four to six weeks. That means that the Hornets will have to rely on their other five returning players with starter’s experience to keep the ship afloat until Mamell returns. “We expect Mamell to be a big cog in the machine this year,” said Nashville coach Brad Weathers. “We’ve got some depth, which will compensate for the loss of Gannon, and are looking at nine people to contribute this year.”
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SIRR Mississippi: Girls BY PETE SPITLER THE SOUTHERN
Anna-Jonesboro Former Cobden coach Brian Clark takes the reins in Union County, hoping to take a Lady Wildcats group with four returning starters to the next level. “Right now, we’re about where I expected us to be,” Clark said. “Everything is new for these girls, and they’ve had to backpedal a little bit and learn all these schemes.” Destiny Dillow, Jessi Stone, Emma Basler and Chandra Parr will lead the Anna-Jonesboro attack this season. Dillow is a three-year starter and Stone is a twoyear starter. “I do have a good core group of girls to work with,” said Clark, who will have former Cobden shortstop and 2008 state champion Jenna Lehr as an assistant coach. Coach: Brian Clark Seniors: DESTINY DILLOW, 5-9, g; Tina Grant, 5-4, g. Juniors: EMMA BASLER, 5-7, g; JESSI STONE, 6-1, c; Valerie Pender, 5-10, f. Sophomores: CHANDRA PARR, 5-8, g; Kim Mixen, 5-4, g; Rebecca Mitchell, 5-8, g/f; Brooke Chamness, 5-4, g; Katie Grant, 5-7, g/f; Becca Kristoff, 5-4, g. Freshmen: Erica Friebel, 5-8, f; J.J. Ford, 5-9, f; Krista Pender, 5-10, f; Rikki Stone, 5-10, f; Cara Farris, 6-0, c; Courtney Kendrick, 5-5, g; Katie Edwards, 5-7, g; Kylie Foster, 5-6, f; Courtney Root, 5-6, g.
Carterville Making its conference debut, Carterville returns a solid nucleus from last season’s 16-13 campaign. The Lady Lions have 22 players out, but only seven of them are upperclassmen. Carterville graduated only one senior in Kelsea Ashton, who is currently playing softball for Southern Illinois University, but like Pinckneyville, it is one senior the team will miss. “We’re still trying to learn the identity of this team,” said Carterville coach Todd Rogers. “We’re going to have to scratch and claw to get any victory in this conference and all the kids that I dress on varsity will get see some sort of time.” Ashton averaged 18.5 points per game as an AllSouth pick last season. Coach: Todd Rogers Seniors: HANNAH WOOD, 5-7, g/f; MEREDITH BROWN, 5-6, g; MOLLIE THOMAS, 5-7, f. Juniors: Andrea Kesler, 5-6, g; Lauren Sherry, 5-7, g/f; SIDNEY BROTHERS, 5-7, f; Shelby Bush, 5-7, f. Sophomores: Jennifer Skinner, 5-10, f; Nina Skinner, 5-5, g; Sydney Michael, 5-4, g; Brigette Gentry, 5-10, f; Courtney Lam, 5-6, f; Cierra Charles, 5-4, g; Huntar Monje, 5-7, f. Freshmen: Savannah Jones, 5-8, g/f; Kelli Hicks, 5-7, g; Jordan Gaston, 5-10, f.
he’s been waiting for. The Lady Indians welcome back four starters from last year’s 11-14 team, including all-conference guard Jessica Hirsch and 6foot sophomore forward Rebekah Maddox. This year’s bunch is much more experienced with seven upperclassmen among 16 players. “The practice intensity has been great, now it’s just putting it all together,” File said. “It’s time to produce, they’re not underclassmen anymore.” Du Quoin has beefed up its schedule as well, with the Lady Indians getting into the Herrin Holiday Hoops Classic and the Carbondale Old National Bank Mid-Winter tournament. Coach: Shawn File Seniors: Ashley Ward, 5-4, g; Curry Emling, 5-6, g; Steffanie Gates, 5-4, g. Juniors: JESSICA HIRSCH, 5-6, g; Keawna Anders, 5-8, f; Magen Edwards, 5-6, fl Shelby Presley, 5-9, f. Sophomores: REBEKAH MADDOX, 6-0, f; Cassidy Rice, 5-7, g; Taylor King, 5-6, f. Freshmen: Hailey Stewart, 5-5, g; Abby Myers, 55, g; Bailie Caldwell, 5-6, f; Katrina Whitley, 5-3, g; Morgan Dennis, 5-10, f; Ashanti Warren, 5-8, f.
Rhine, Kourtney Heggemeier and Jennifer Moeller are all back for their senior year at Nashville, which only lost one starter to graduation in Annie Borowiak. “A lot of them have played since their sophomore year and have been to the state tournament twice,” said Nashville coach Wayne Harre. “They still have to have drive (to succeed) and I’ve got to try and make sure we keep that drive going.” Nashville finished 28-7 last season. Coach: Wayne Harre Seniors: JENNA MORRIS, 5-8, g; MELANIE RHINE, 5-7, g; Paige Schwartzkopf, 5-8, f; KOURTNEY HEGGEMEIER, 5-10, f; Breanne Pelker, 6-0, f; JENNIFER MOELLER, 6-0, c. Juniors: Jolie Wall, 5-5, g; Keisha Setzkorn, 5-7, f; Mollie Borowiak, 5-7, f; Jaysie Bower, 5-6, g. Sophomores: Callie Schwartzkopf, 5-7, g; Shaye Harre, 5-10, c; Erica Brown, 5-11, f. Freshman: Shawn Rennegarbe, 5-9, f.
Pinckneyville After several years of 20plus wins, last season’s 19-
10 result was a bit of a disappointment to Pinckneyville coach Alan Engelhardt. “Last year, I don’t think we guarded the way we have in the past,” Engelhardt said. “We’ve made a concentrated effort to be a defense-first team this year.” Pinckneyville lost only one senior to graduation, but that senior was AllSouth and IBCA all-state selection Emily Miller. Miller averaged 15 pointsper-game for the Lady Panthers and was one of their defensive leaders as well. But a bumper crop of nine freshmen will look to help offset the loss of Miller and the eight seniors on the current roster. Coach: Alan Engelhardt Seniors: DANI JENKEL, 5-7, f; TAYLOR CICARDI, 59, f; MADDY KEITH, 5-10, g; MO RAMSEY, 5-9, f; Kortney Crawford, 5-4, g; Katrina Henson, 5-4, g, Taylor Kuhnert, 5-6, f; Tyler Flowers, 5-6, f. Juniors: Lindsey Winter, 5-9, g; Emma Opp, 5-9, c.
Sophomores: Heather McDaniel, 5-1, g; Dani Schoenbacher, 5-5, g; Haley Simpson, 5-9, f.
Sparta Only Jessica Robinson returns as a starter from a 17-7 team that graduated eight seniors in 2010, leaving new coach April York with some rebuilding to do. “We’re going to be very young this year,” York said. “We’re also not very big, but I’m hoping we can use our quickness to our advantage.” York, who was the Lady Bulldogs’ junior varsity coach last season, takes over for Jim Jeffers in the lead role. “The transition is a little difficult, but it’s going good,” York said. Coach: April York Seniors: JESSICA ROBINSON, 5-11, c; Corrie Opolka, 5-5, g. Juniors: Jenalee Stine, 5-5, f; Mariah Aponte, 5-3, f; Jade Vaughn, 5-4, g; Kassy Stamp, 5-8, f. Sophomores: Victoria Ward, 5-3, g/f; Alexis Kohrs, 5-8, g/f. Freshmen: Katelyn Blount, 5-4, f; Kendra Kessler, 5-3, g; Jannice Edmonson, 5-6, f.
Nashville
The Hornettes return a significant chunk of a program that has won backto-back Class 2A thirdDu Quoin place trophies at the IHSA After years of building, state tournament in Du Quoin coach Shawn File Bloomington. may finally have the group Jenna Morris, Melanie
The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 19, 2010 Page 5
SIRR Ohio: Boys BY SCOTT MEES THE SOUTHERN
Benton The Rangers have five starters back from last season’s 10-20 squad, and coach Ron Winemiller is looking for improvement. Caleb Suver, the team’s leading scorer and rebounder, returns at forward, and Cody Smith is back at point guard. Smith has started since he was a freshman. “Cody has a lot of experience, and I hope he’s running the team by the end of the year,” Winemiller said. “We turned the ball over to him when we got here. I think he’ll have a great twoyear run at the point.” Benton should have plenty of depth as well. Tyler Leffler is back at shooting guard, and Winemiller will be relying on him for some scoring. “These are a couple of groups that people have been excited about for a long time, but we play in a very difficult conference,” Winemiller said. “We have to elevate ourselves above some teams in our conference. We’ll have to really lean on our defense .” Coach: Ron Winemiller. Seniors: CALEB SUVER, 6-3, f; Nick Price, 6-2, f; Hunter Kerley, 6-0, g; KYLER SMITH, 5-11, g; Jalen
Heil, 6-3, f. Juniors: CODY SMITH, 5-9, g; TYLER LEFFLER, 6-3, g; MASON CHILDERS, 6-2, f; Trey Garrett, 6-1, g; Jared Johnston, 6-0, g; Dylan Hartley, 5-10, g; Landon LaBuwi, 6-3, f. Sophomores: Cole Forby, 6-2, f; Dalton Ward, 6-5, f; Dylan Sheeks, 6-3, f.
Harrisburg The Bulldogs had a solid season a year ago and won a regional, but they lost Cain Sheldon, Lucas Elverd and Reid Roper to graduation. But Keelin Rasch returns at guard, and Capel Henshaw is back at forward for the squad, which doesn’t have much size. “We lost some really good players, we’re inexperienced and we’ll go through some growing pains,” said Harrisburg coach Randy Smithpeters. “We are fairly skilled and athletic, and I think we have a lot of people that can score.” Harrisburg should also get some positive contributions from its underclassmen. Henshaw, Tyler Smithpeters and Ryne Roper are all sophomores, and 6-foot-3 center Eli Scott is only a freshman. “Ryne is a tremendous shooter, and I think he’s matured physically and will help us out,” Smithpeters said. “He has as much range as anybody on the floor. Our strength is we don’t have a go-to guy. Whoever is left open is the guy that
will put it in the hole.” Coach: Randy Smithpeters. Seniors: KEELIN RASCH, 5-11, g; Jalen Stewart, 60, g; Caleb Gooch, 6-2, f. Juniors: Brandon Gibbs, 6-2, c; Tyler McGowan, 61, f; Tyler Short, 6-2, c; Caleb Goldman, 6-1, f. Sophomores: CAPEL HENSHAW, 6-2, f; Tyler Smithpeters, 6-3, g/f; Ryne Roper, 6-2, f. Freshmen: Eli Scott, 6-3, c.
Herrin The Tigers will be leaning on 6-3 forward DeMarlo Harris and point guard Jo Jo Hart this season. The squad also has guard Jamie Jones back. Harris, a junior, has started since he entered high school, and coach Irv Lukens is expecting to see that experience pay off this season. “Hopefully, he’ll show what he has learned in three years because I want some leadership out of him,” Lukens said of Harris. “He’s strong and very talented. He’s been playing with some good players, and now he will be the main one and hopefully he can handle the transition.” The Tigers have 6-7 center Vennis Brown in the middle. He was pretty raw as a junior so it’ll be interesting to see how much he’s progressed. “Vennis saw some varsity action last year, but now he’ll be put to the test,” Lukens said. “He had a good summer and has recovered from knee surgery. Hopefully, this year he can get up there, stay active and take of things inside for us.”
Good Luck
Red
Devils!
Page 6 Friday, November 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
Lukens plans on using Jakob Caldwell at guard and hopes to get some good outside shooting from Jones as well. Coach: Irv Lukens. Seniors: Vennis Brown, 6-7, c; JO JO HART, 5-7, g; Jacob Caldwell, 6-1, g; Ben Wayer, 6-4, f; Dylan Orso, 6-1, g; JAMIE JONES, 6-1, g. Juniors: DEMARLO HARRIS, 6-3, f; Bobby Manning, 5-10, g; Alex Davis, 6-0, g; Nathan Lukens, 5-10, g.
Massac County The Patriots are hoping for a big year from guard Corey Ayala, who is one of the most talented players in the area. The 6-2 senior missed a good chunk of last season because of an injury, but he’s back to lead a talented squad for his final year. “Corey has been on a mission with his conditioning and has worked really hard on his outside game and his strength,” said Massac County coach Joe Hosman. “I look for him to have a real big year for us.” Massac County also has Quincy Glass back at guard, and he’s a solid long range shooter. Hayden Farmer (64) and Griffin Bazor (6-5) give the Patriots a good inside presence as well. Malcolm Amos, a junior, really came on strong toward the end of last season. Hosman believes he’ll be a difference maker this year. “He is really a gamer and doesn’t shy away from taking some big shots and being aggressive,” Hosman said.
Coach: Joe Hosman. Seniors: COREY AYALA, 6-2, g; QUINCY GLASS, 6-1, g; HAYDEN FARMER, 6-4, f; Tyler Lee, 6-0, f; O’Shea Everett, 5-9, g. Juniors: Malcolm Amos, 6-1, g; Griffin Bazor, 6-5, f; Dalton Stoner, 6-1, g; Shequille Moore, 5-11, g; Kelvin Skinner, 6-2, f. Sophomores: Ethan Schulte, 6-6, f; Ryan English, 6-2, f; Andrew Cromeenes, 6-3, c; Ross Devers 6-2, f.
Murphysboro The Red Devils have five of their top six players back from last year’s super-sectional team that went undefeated in the conference. It all starts with point guard Jerrod Gaston, who has a tremendous skill set that may have been overshadowed by the team’s overall balance last season. He’ll be in the backcourt along with Orlando Jarrett and Pierre House. “Experience is always good and it gets you out of the gate faster,” said Murphysboro coach Daryl Murphy. “Kids are familiar with plays and defenses and things like that. We always want to work on fundamentals, but you can get into more of the game coaching sooner. The first day of practice you’re more advanced than other years.” Dylan Craig (6-3) and Eben Brooks (6-3) return at the post positions. Craig can pretty much do it all, and Brooks is usually assigned to guard the opposing team’s biggest player down low. Coach: Daryl Murphy. Seniors: DYLAN CRAIG, 6-3, f; EBEN BROOKS, 6-3, f; ORLANDO JARRETT, 6-0, g; JERROD GASTON, 6-1,
g; Cameron Greer, 5-9, g; Jordan Stanton, 6-5, c. Juniors: Pierre House, 6-1, g; Mitchell Rose, 6-1, f; Zane Heller, 5-9, g; Mitch Maloney, 5-9, g; Drew Novara, 6-0, g; Kyle Miller, 6-1, g.
West Frankfort The Redbirds had a another tough season last year at 2-25, and Dan DeWerff has taken over coaching duties from Kevin Toney, who resigned. DeWerff compiled a 70-41 record with two regional titles as the coach at Pawnee High School over the past four years. West Frankfort can only go up from here, and DeWerff is hoping to see improvement this season. “We are going to put pressure on the ball defensively and play man-toman,” DeWerff said. “Offensively, we need ball movement with screens and cutting. It’s not really run and gun but working the ball to get a good shot.” The squad has three senior starters returning in Taylor Cash, Dylan Vaughn and Nathan Butler. That trio will be relied upon quite a bit, and the Redbirds have nine seniors on the roster. Junior forward Addison Eggertsen is also expected to be a key contributor. Coach: Dan DeWerff. Seniors: TAYLOR CASH, 6-0, g; DYLAN VAUGHN, 60, g; NATHAN BUTLER, 6-2, f; Dalton Woolard, 5-11, g; Austin Allen, 5-10, g; Derek Davis, 5-8, g; Cody Elders, 5-8, g; Major McKeithen, 6-3, c; Chase Riddle, 6-3, f. Juniors: Addison Eggertsen, 6-2, f; Jarod Dial, 6-1, f; Joe Burgess, 6-1, f; Koty Rains, 6-2, f; Nathan Dodd, 6-1, g; Jeremy Harris, 6-0, g. Sophomores: Nick Korolenko, 6-0
Go Red Devils!
SIRR Ohio: Girls BY SCOTT MEES THE SOUTHERN
Harrisburg
The Rangerettes should be much improved with three sophomores back that started as freshmen. Junior Sara Miller returns at point guard along with sophomores Evelyn Mendez, Morgan Corn and Makala Carney. Sophomore Brittany Pedigo was injured for part of last season but saw plenty of playing time as well. “We bring back a lot of experience, but we’ll still be young,” said Benton coach Seth Tate. “There are some expectations around the program, so our girls have to learn how to deal with that. I think we can be real competitive.” The four sophomores were part of a really good eighth grade team but had to learn on the fly against some players that were four years older last season. A full year of varsity experience should show on the court this time around.
Harrisburg co-head coaches April Horning and Denise Clayton enter their second year at the helm of the Lady Bulldogs and are hoping to see improvement from last season’s 8-15 squad. The team doesn’t have any returning starters and will have six underclassmen on the varsity roster. “Not having any starters back is tough, and it’s hard to fit fundamentals in,” Horning said. “We only have two weeks to prepare and we’re kind of still putting our motion offense in.” The Lady Bulldogs do have a trio of seniors with some experience on the team. Hillary Shires and Alex Morgan both saw playing time in the post, and Vicki Korschegen returns at guard. “Morgan is a hustle player who can defend well even on the perimeter,” Horning said. Although she’s just a freshman, Ashley Ferrell will need to contribute in the backcourt this season.
Coach: Seth Tate. Seniors: Alyssa Williams, 5-6, g. Juniors: SARA MILLER, 5-6, g. Sophomores: MORGAN CORN, 5-11, g; EVELYN MENDEZ, 5-7, g; MAKALA CARNEY, 6-1, c; Brittany Pedigo, 5-6, g; Taylor Williams, 5-9, f. Freshmen: Kristin Odom, 5-8, f; Ashtyn Ward, 5-10, f; Logan Buckner, 5-4, g; Sami Minor, 5-7, g; Kaitlyn Biddle, 5-8, f.
Coaches: April Horning and Denise Clayton. Seniors: Hillary Shires, 5-11, f; Alexa Morgan, 6-0, f; Vicki Korschegen, 5-5, g. Juniors: Lexi Griffin, 5-8, f; Tracey Wallace, 5-5, g; Saddie Goodwin, 5-5; Sophomores: Shelby Boer, 5-9, f. Freshmen: Ashley Ferrell, 5-2, g; Lindsey Murray, 5-1, g; Malayna Douglas, 5-5, f; Hayley Thompson, 58, f; Hannah Walker, 5-9, f.
Benton
this year, and if she stays impact for the squad this sized for her position, but she plays bigger than what aggressive she is the best season. her height.” player in the conference. Keith Shelton. Horn did a solid job as a Coach: Seniors: Brittany Bush, 5-6, g; Neka Lee, 5-6, g. Staci Hickam. freshman last season, but Juniors: KRISTINA HENLEY, 5-10, f; KARSEN SMITH, Coach: Seniors: Kaitlyn Kemp, 5-9, f; HALYLIE HINES, 5-7, 5-11, f; Morgan McCutcheon, 5-11, f; Becca Reames, she’ll need to step up her 5-9, g; Chesley Burnham, 5-8, g; Shawnie Weaver, 5- g; SHELBY MILEUR, 5-8, f; Hailey Klink, 5-7, f. game this season, too. The 8, f; Brittany Keith, 5-7, g; Destiny Turner, 5-6, f; Juniors: Katy Flanagan, 5-7, g/f; Christina Smith, 55, g; Jasmine Gaines, 5-3, g; Chelsea Gillespie, 5-5, Lady Tigers need a good Ashleigh Kendall, 5-8, g. Sophomores: Kaylee Childers, 5-6, g; Lauren g; Rosie Hines, 5-5, g; Jennifer Roseberry, 5-6, g; Kelsea Fark, 5-9, f; chunk of points and Bunting, 5-11, c. Sophomores: Tori Conover, 5-8, g. rebounds from the sophomore.
Go Rangers!
Coach: Bill Green. Seniors: HALEY ELDERS, 6-0, f; Kim Deming, 5-8, g; Stephanie Diaz, 5-7, g/f; Sarah Alongi, 5-7, f; Katelynn Knight, 5-9, f. Juniors: Olivia Caldwell, 6-0, f; Tessa Forquer, 6-0, f; Mikala Lunsford, 5-8, f. Sophomores: ABBY HORN, 6-0, f; Jessica Alongi, 5-4, g; Alexis Yates, 5-6, f. Freshmen: Tori Johnson, 5-7, g/f.
THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO
Haley Elders of Herrin grabs a rebound last season.
Herrin Bill Green, who has coached this team in the past, is taking over for Mike Newbold this season. The Lady Tigers lost their best, Austyn Ridings, to graduation. But the team will have the best frontcourt in the division. Haley Elders and Abby Horn, who are both six feet tall, return to the starting lineup. “Haley is just like her older sister, Heather, and you won’t find a harder nosed kid,” Green said. “She can move out 14 feet and shoot and take you inside. We are expecting big things out of her.” The Lady Tigers are going to need a big dose of Elders
Massac County The Lady Patriots are looking for improvement from last year when the team started slow but finished pretty well. It all starts with junior forward Kristina Henley (510), who has two years of varsity experience under her belt. “I expect she will step up for us this year because we need that,” said Massac County coach Keith Shelton. “She has to be a leader for us this year and do a lot for us. She’s got to be our leading scorer or right at it. If she doesn’t average double figures we could be in trouble.” Shelton said Henley has been hitting the weight room, but she’ll need some help from her teammates. Chesley Burnham, a 5-8 junior guard, could make an
Murphysboro
West Frankfort
The Lady Red Devils are looking to make some noise in the conference, and Halylie Hines is a good place to start. The 5-7 senior guard plays tough defense and can score some points as well. Hines and senior forward Shelby Mileur will be relied upon to lead this team. “Halylie will be our floor general, and I think the two of them will work very well together,” said Murphysboro coach Staci Hickam. Halylie plays old school basketball and will put a hand on you until the referees tell her to stop. If she stays out of foul trouble we should be in pretty good shape.” Mileur is a talented multi-sport athlete who has been a positive mark on the program in general. She can score in the paint and plays solid defense as well. “She normally leaves an impression with anybody she’s around,” Hickam said of Mileur. “She really expects herself to do everything very well and she does. She is a little under-
The Lady Redbirds weren’t expected to be really good last season after losing a talented senior class, but the squad still wound up winning a regional. The same could be said this year. Coach Matt Hampleman has one of the top players in the area back in Jasmine Chromchak, a 5-10 forward. “She’s played quite well for us, and she’s worked on her game a lot,” Hampleman said. “She can hit the big shots and the deep 3. I look for her to step up and take a leadership role this season.” The team should have a solid presence in the paint with Aarika Twist (6-0) and Nicole Frey (6-0) coming back. “Twist played extremely well for us in the regional last year,” Hampleman said. Coach: Matt Hampleman. Seniors: Aarika Twist, 6-0, c; Molly Hood, 5-9, g; Christi Bromley, 5-6, f; Hali Holland, 5-9, g. Juniors: Nicole Frey, 6-0, f; Kaitlyn Glodich, 5-5, g; JASMINE CHROMCHAK, 5-10, f; Kendall Presley, 5-5, g; Rachel Edwards, 5-10, f; Briyunna Kohel, 5-10, f; Yulia Cool, 5-5, g. Sophomores: Rebecca Cunningham, 5-10, f.
Go Her rin T ige rs! The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 19, 2010 Page 7
Black Diamond East: Boys BY PHILIP KOWALIS THE SOUTHERN
Carmi-White County Coach Jarrod Newell’s Carmi-White County Bulldogs returns starters Lawson Warren, a first team all-conference pick, and Josh Capps from a team that finished 8-2 in conference and shared the title with Hamilton County. The Bulldogs, who finished with 17-13, also bring back Laramie Immel, Jacob Cox and Trent Thompson, all of whom played major minutes a year ago. Newell said it will be important for the team to establish an identity as the season moves along. “We have size and quickness and have the ability to score both inside and outside,” he said. “We will have to decide what kind of team we want to be and work on that style of play to have a successful season.” Coach: Jarrod Newell Seniors: LAWSON WARREN, 6-5, f; JOSH CAPPS, 6-2, g; Cody Masterson, 5-10, f; Laramie Immel, 5-10, g; Jacob Cox, 5-10, g; Trent Thompson, 5-10, g. Juniors: Trenton Veach, 5-8, g; Dalton Bartley, 6-2, f; Lukas Matsel, 5-10, f; Isaac Hayse, 6-4, f; Patrick McKenzie, 6-4, f. Sophomores: Dylan Rankin, 5-8, g; Colin Winter, 6-0, f; Gregory Dillman, 5-10, g; Ryan Farr, 5-10, f; Tyler Cushman, 6-0, f.
Eldorado Coach T.J. Zurliene’s Eldorado Eagles return three starters from a team that finished with a 6-4 conference mark and 16-15 overall. The Eagles return 6-foot-5 forward Cody Johnson who was a first team all-conference selection last season. Johnson averaged 13 points per game a year ago but closed the season averaging 20 points and 10 rebounds over the final
10 games. Also returning for the Eagles are senior Nick Stewart and junior Lucas Weir. “The strength of this team will be its size,” Zurliene said. “We will be taller than most of our opponents, which will give us an advantage inside.” The key to the Eagles improving on last season’s record and challenging for a conference title will be improved play on the defensive end and patience on offense. Coach: T.J. Zurliene Seniors: CODY JOHNSON, 6-5, f/c; NICK STEWART, 6-0, g. Juniors: LUCAS WEIR, 6-4 f/c; Ryan Langley, 63, f. Sophomores: Devin Aldridge, 5-11, g.
Fairfield The Fairfield Mules return two starters from a team that finished 7-22 overall and 4-6 in the Black Diamond East. The Mules return second-team all-conference selection Andrew Atteberry, who averaged eight points a contest last season. The Mules other returning starter is forward Tyler Hutcheson. Hutcheson will be counted on to provide some muscle inside for the Mules who have only one player taller than 6-0. “We will have to spread the floor to utilize our quickness,” Fairfield coach Scott McElravy said. “We will have to play an up-tempo style because of our lack of size, but we have the quickness to put pressure on our opponent both offensively and defensively.” Coach: Scott McElravy Seniors: ANDREW ATTEBERRY, 5-9, g; Tyler Vaughn, 5-9, g; Victor Skaggs, 5-10, f. Juniors: Tyler Hutcheson, 5-11, f; Zane McMeen, 6-2, f; Cody Bailey, 5-11, g; Derik Hutson, 5-9, g; Colton Slover, 5-10, g .
Hamilton County Coach Curt Reed’s Hamilton County Foxes return just one starter from last year’s 16-14 squad that shared the conference title with Carmi-White County. The Foxes return senior guard Clint Hopfinger to provide leadership to a team that has lost its top four scorers and rebounders to graduation. “It will be hard to replace the scoring and rebounding that we have lost,” Reed said. “Our biggest loss will be the experience we will be missing on this team.” In addition to Hopfinger, the Foxes will have junior Aaron Cravens back as the team’s top returning scorer, and junior post player Chad Flannigan to provide some strength inside. Adam Rubenacker will run the point for the Foxes this season.
Black Diamond East: Girls BY PHILIP KOWALIS THE SOUTHERN
Carmi-White County First-year coach Scott Conner takes over at Carmi-White County and inherits a team that does not return a starter from a team that finished 15-13 overall and 6-4 in the conference a year ago. Conner will look for senior Hannah Kuykendall and junior Annique Stubblefield to lead a team that he expects to be able to contend for the conference championship. Kuykendall and Stubblefield will be looked upon to supply the bulk of the scoring for the Lady Bulldogs. Conner will look to seniors Tailor Frymire and Whitney McKenzie as well as sophomore Emma Bachman to fill out a rotation at the guard spot, and sophomore post player Sydney Clark to add depth and scoring punch to the frontcourt.
THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO
Vienna’s Hannah McGinnis competes for a rebound last season.
fourth-place finish. Mahoney, the team’s best perimeter defender, will be asked to defend the opponent’s top perimeter threat as well as provide more of an offensive punch this season. Eldorado will look to sophomore guards Ashton Unthank and Kourtney Phillips to pick up some of the scoring the Lady Eagles lost to graduation. Both Unthank and Phillips are good shooters from the perimeter and also have the ability to drive to the basket. Bradley expects sophomores Cassidy Morris, Elsie Talkington and Charly Lowery ato be in the mix.
Coach: Curt Reed Seniors: CLINT HOPFINGER, 5-10, g. Juniors: Adam Rubenacker, 5-9, g; C.J. Lemmons, 6-0, g; Chad Flannigan, 6-4, f/c; Aaron Cravens, 6-0, g. Sophomores: Levi Leuke, 6-1, f; Garrett Biggerstaff, 6-3, f.
Coach: Scott Conner Seniors: Hannah Kuykendall, 5-8, g; Whitney McKenzie, 5-8, g; Tailor Frymire, 5-6, g. Juniors: Annique Stubblefield, 6-0, f. Sophomores: Emma Bachman, 5-8, f; Sydney Clark, 6-0, c.
Johnston City
Eldorado
Johnston City coach Wade Thomas will look for his Indian squad to continue to build on the improvement the team showed in his first year at the helm. “I think we made some pretty good strides last year,” Thomas said. “We played better and became more competitive as the season moved along. The team has been working hard, and I feel we are moving in the right direction.” The Indians, who finished 6-22 overall and 3-7
Eldorado coach Josh Bradley will look to senior Aly Mahoney to provide leadership for a very young squad that does not include another upperclassman on the roster. “We will have to rely on the young girls to grow up fast,” Bradley said. “I hope Coach: Josh Bradley we can finish around .500 Seniors: ALY MAHONEY, 4-9, g. as we gain experience Sophomores: Cassidy Morris, 5-9, f; Elsie 5-10, c; Charly Lowery, 5-7, g; Ashton and build depth for the Talkington, Unthank, 5-8, g; Kourtney Phillips, 5-7, g. future.” Freshmen: Erica Gracyzk, 5-11, c. Mahoney the Lady Eagles only returning starter averaged five points and three Fairfield assists per contest last year Fairfield coach Tonya for a team that finished 14- Conrad welcomes back 14 overall and 5-5 in the senior Shelbi Simpson and conference, good for a junior Kelsey Sarles as
Page 8 Friday, November 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
SEE BOYS / PAGE 9
returning starters for a Lady Mules team that finished last season with a 15-12 record overall and 4-6 in the Black Diamond Conference. Simpson is the team’s top returning scorer having averaged 15 points a contest last season. “The key to our success this season will be our defense and rebounding,” Conrad said. “We don’t have much size so we will really have to battle on the boards and look for our defense to cause turnovers that we can use to create offensive opportunities out of. We have the potential to be a good offensive team as we have several good shooters from the 10-15 foot range, but we need to push the ball every chance we have to get some easy baskets in transition.” Coach: Tonya Conrad Seniors: SHELBI SIMPSON, 5-7, g; Alyssa Lang, 5-11, g/f. Junoirs: KELSEY SARLES, 5-8, g; Brittani Cherry, 58, g/f.
SEE GIRLS / PAGE 9
BOYS: Trico is the favorite in the conference a year ago, return two starters. Back for the Indians are seniors Brandon Crider and Daniel Davison. Crider a second team allconference pick averaged 13 points and eight rebounds last season, and Davison chipped in eight points and five rebounds per game for the Indians. Johnston City will also look for contributions from Jessi Jeffords, Angelo Hightower and Tyler Johnson. The key to any success Johnston City will have will be their work at the defensive end of the floor.
Vienna
Coach: Wade Thomas Seniors: BRANDON CRIDER, 6-2, f; DANIEL DAVISON, 6-2, f; Jesse Jeffords, 6-1, f. Juniors: Angelo Hightower, 5-10, g; Cody Watkins, 5-9, g; Taylor Kirkman, 5-10, g. Sophomores: Tyler Johnson, 5-10, g; Jory Kee, 510, g; Devin Glisson, 5-10, g.
Coach: Cory Waters Seniors: AARON KIRBY, 6-0, g; MARCUS STRAMM, 5-11, g; TRAE FOSTER, 5-11, f; Kyle Bollman, 6-1, f; Steven Sullivan, 6-0, f; Clayton Smith, 6-2, f; Drew Kirb, 5-11, g. Juniors: Clayton Wright, 6-1, f. Sophomores: Blake Gray, 5-10, g.
Cory Waters takes over as coach of the Vienna Eagles after spending five seasons as an assistant. Waters inherits a team that finished 1-9 in conference and 3-23 last season. Vienna returns starters Aaron Kirby, Trae Foster and leading scorer Marcus Stramm. Kyle Bollman, Steven Sullivan, Clayton Smith and Drew Kirby also look to see significant playing time for the Eagles this season. Waters said the key to improvement will be protecting the basketball and playing tough defense.
SC
GIRLS: BDC East defending champion ready for another run FROM PAGE 8
Hamilton County The Hamilton County Lady Foxes return three starters from a team that finished last season 17-12 overall. Their 6-4 conference mark was good enough to finish second behind conference champ Vienna. Hamilton County returns starters Emma Moreton, Laci Laughard and Alyssa Winemiller to a team that coach Clint Winemiller expects to challenge for the conference title. “We return a lot of experience,” Winemiller said. “We only lost two players from last year’s team. These girls are a very competitive group that does not like to lose. They have a chance to do something special this season if they can stay healthy.” Winemiller will look to three-year starter Laughard and Emma Moreton to provide the bulk of the scoring for his team but the Lady Foxes also have other weapons in forward Marci Niekamp and guard Winemiller.
Coach: Clint Winemiller Seniors: Sara Scott, 5-10, c/f, Natalie Anselment, 5-10, c/f; Krystal Knight, 5-7, g; Anna Moreton, 5-8, g. Juniors: EMMA MORETON, 5-9, g/f; ALYSSA WINEMILLER, 5-6 g; LACI LAUGHARD, 5-8, g; Ali Zachman, 5-6, g; Marcie Niekamp, 5-8, f.
Johnston City First-year Johnston City coach George Lenon takes over team that returns just two starters from a team that finished 5-22 last year, finishing the season with a 22-game losing streak. “We will be very young and very inexperienced,” Lenon said. “I had a pretty good turnout but the majority of the girls are freshmen and have very little experience but I have a good start at building for the future.” The Lady Indians return seniors Marissa Montgomery and Carley Bunting but Bunting will be out for five or six weeks with a broken foot suffered during volleyball season. Sophmores Rowdy Sanders and Kelsie Nagrodski and freshman Molly Price will join Montgomery in the starting lineup with Lenon still
looking to find a fifth starter to replace the injured Bunting. Coach: George Lenon Seniors: MARISSA MONTGOMERY, 5-8, g; CARLEY BUNTING, 5-10, f. Sophomores: Rowdy Sanders, 5-9, f; Kelsie Nagrodski, 5-, g. Freshmen: Molly Price, 6-0, c.
Vienna Defending conference champion Vienna returns three starters from last year’s team that finished with a 9-1 conference record and at 24-7 overall. The Lady Eagles return seniors Hanna McGinnis and Emily Horn and sophomore point guard Carley Childress as starters from last season’s conference champs. Senior Taylor Hoffman and junior Brooke Childress look to step in and fill out the starting five. “The strength of this team is our experience,” coach Brannon Waters said. “They are all used to playing with each other.” Coach: Brannon Waters Seniors: HANNAH MCGINNIS, 5-10, f; EMILY HORN, 5-7, g; Taylor Hoffman, 5-, f.
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www.pepsimidamerica.com The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 19, 2010 Page 9
Black Diamond West: Boys BY PATRICK ERICKSON THE SOUTHERN
Chester It will be a new look and a new conference for Chester this year. The Yellow Jackets move from the SIRR Mississippi over to the Black Diamond, switching places with Carterville. The switch should help Chester. The Yellow Jackets will be competing against schools of similar size. Coach Robert Bell said this will give his team a chance to win every night. “I feel we will be more energized and upbeat each game,” he said, “We won’t have to face the Nashvilles and Pinckeyvilles night in and night out.” The Yellow Jackets should also be boosted by the return of three starters, Zach Lochhead, Justin Woodward and Matt Chandler. They also return a key reserve in Brandon Young and get Seth Johnson back from a knee injury. “He (Johnson) was supposed to play a role off the bench for us last year before his injury, “Bell said, “And, unfortunately, he was not able to fully get back to the varsity level. But he has recovered well and looked good this summer.” The Yellow Jackets will
try and slow things down a bit year as they have some good size. Coach: Robert Bell Seniors: ZACH LOCHHEAD, 6-2, g. JUSTIN WOODWARD, 6-1, f. MATT CHANDLER, 6-7, c. Juniors: Brandon Young, 6-2, g/f.
Christopher Christopher welcomes a new look and a new coach for the 2010-11 season. Eric Stallman takes the reins for the Bearcats after having previously coached at the freshman and junior-varsity levels. He inherits a team that lost five seniors, including three starters from a squad that finished 7-17 and 2-8 in conference. On the plus side, he returns seven seniors, including his leading scorer. Steven Dial averaged 10 points per game a year ago and will be tasked with leading the offense again. He will be supported by fellow senior Devin Austill. Austill, 6-2, along with 6-5 senior David Ragan and 6-5 sophomore Kevin Mercks will provide the size down low. Coach: Eric Stallman Seniors: STEVEN DIAL, 6-0., g; Ryan Dawson, 6-0, g; Taylor Calloni, 5-, g; Joey Bailey, 5-10, g; DEVIN AUSTILL, 6-2, f; DAVID RAGAN, 6-5, f; Mardi Nikolich, 6-0, g. Juniors: Kolten Pedigo, 5-10, g; Scott Marchetti, 60, g. Sophomores: Tyler Atchison, 5-10, g; Kevin Mercks, 6-5, f.
f; Josh Stuva, 5-3, g; Stevon Sedillo, 5-5, g; Marshall Bell, 5-9, g; Kody Ellet, 5-5, g; Casey Hicks, 6-2, f; Andrew Jeschke, 6-1, f; Zack Hanks, 5-11, g. Freshmen: Christian Kistner, 5-6, g; Eli Fennell, 54, g.
Elverado
Sesser-Valier
Elverado returns three starters from a year ago and looks to improve from past seasons. The Falcons finished 0-10 in conference last season, but 4-24 overall, a three-win improvement from 2008-09, and hope to show similar improvement this year. Though they lost their leading scorer from last year, the Falcons possess a strong junior class and a sophomore class that totals eleven players. Coach John Harrison said these classes will help set the tone. “We are going to be very improved from a year ago,” he said, “I think we will be able to compete a lot more this season.” The Falcons will rely offensively on senior guard Dylan Hasty, one of the three returning starters. He will get support from junior Dalton Porter and senior Ben Kempfer. Elverado doesn’t have a player over 6-2, but they are hoping to rely on quickness and depth to wear down opponents and create turnovers.
Last year was a banner season for Sesser-Valier. The Red Devils followed a strong regular season, with an even stronger postseason, making it all the way to the Class 1A state final before falling to Salt Fork. Gone is a talented senior class which included the top seven players from last season, including first team all-stater Justin Matyi. But that doesn’t mean Sesser will be down this year. “We have a lot of talent,” said coach Chip Basso, “Our JV last year was excellent. We have a very good junior class and a couple of good juniors. They just need some experience.” Curtis Edwards and Dustin Hicks will be expected to lead the team as it transitions into a new era. The seniors played some varsity minutes last year and will be expected to help the strong junior class. Last year’s deep run should also prove to be beneficial. “Anytime you do what we did last year, it can only help you grow,” Basso said.
Coach: John Harrison Seniors: Sean Harrison, 6-1, f; BEN KEMPFER, 6-0, g;DYLAN HASTY, 6-0, g. Juniors: DALTON PORTER, 5-11., g; Bryce Mathis, 57, g; Wade Bowlin, 5-7, g; Skyler Roach, 5-5, g; Branden Lewis, 5-8, g. Sophomores: Jake Lipe, 6-2, f; Brian McClanahan, 5-8, g; Kyle Whittington, 5-9, g; Josh Saransen, 6-2,
Go Falcons!
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Page 10 Friday, November 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
Coach: Chip Basso Seniors: Dustin Hicks, 6-1, g; Alan DelBene, 5-8, g; Dakota Ellison, 5-8, g; Curtis Edwards, 5-10, g; Caleb Spann, 5-10, c. Juniors: Kyle Stanley, 6-0, g; Greg Jenkins, 5-10, g; Tim Witcher, 6-4, f; John Vercellino, 6-0, f; Dylan Rock, 6-1, f; Drew Dorris, 6-3, c. Sophomores: Justin Kulich, 6-5, c.
Trico Expectations are high at Trico as the Pioneers return nearly every key player from a team that went undefeated in the Black Diamond Conference last season. All five starters and 11 of the top 12 players return a year after having their season come to a premature halt in the playoffs. With so much experience and talent back, coach Shane Hawkins said big things should be expected. “When I arrived here five years ago, this is the class we were looking to build for,” said Hawkins, the former Southern Illinois University guard, “These guys have been together for a long time, and the experience and chemistry should pay off.” The Pioneers will be lead by Logan Thies, the Black Diamond West Co-MVP last season. The senior averaged nearly 20 points per game a season ago. Thies will be joined by fellow three-year starters Jesse Smith and Chase Heins. Coach: Shane Hawkins Seniors: LOGAN THIES 6-1, g.; JESSE SMITH, 6-0, g; Dennis Froemling 5-11, g; Patrick Heller, 5-10, g; Tyler Coleman, 6-1, g. Juniors: CHASE HEINS, 6-6, f; Dylan Withoff, 6-0, g; Daron Meyerhoff, 6-0, g; Kaleb Koester, 6-4, f; Trevor Compton, 6-3, f.
Zeigler-Royalton Zeigler-Royalton will have to replace seven seniors and its entire starting
cast from a year ago, a season which saw the Tornadoes finish 17-14. The Tornadoes do have six seniors who they will rely on, but most of them lack significant varsity experience. Coach Jaime Moyers said a big key will be how quickly his team adapts. “I think a big question is how will these guys mature on the floor,” he said. “If they can adjust to the higher level of play it will help a lot.” Leading the way for Z-R will be Dylan Arvai, a 6-2 guard coming off a season lost to injury. He had been expected to be a key varsity reserve last year, but after missing time was not able to be contribute. Still, he will be relied upon heavily. “I think Dylan has to be a leader in all categories,” Moyers said, “Statistically and as a leader.” Payton Clark and Jordan Dominick will be tasked with supporting Arvai. Clark is a junior who will be expected to play the bulk of the minutes at center. He will be joined in the frontcourt by Domineck, a senior. Coach: JAIME MOYERS Seniors: Dylan Arvai, 6-2, g; Jordan Domineck, 5-11 f; Tyler Slomka, 5-11, f; Wyatt Underwood, 6-1, c; Travis Minton, 6-2, g; Sean Masters, 6-2, c. Juniors: Ron Kaegi, 5-7, g; Payton Clark, 6-2, c; Ryan Leposky, 6-0, f; Jamie Hargraves, 5-6, g. Sophomores: Jeffrey Pedigo, 5-8, g. Freshmen: Nick McPhail, 5-9, g.
Black Diamond West: Girls BY PATRICK ERICKSON THE SOUTHERN
Elverado Elverado has an advantage over much of the Black Diamond West. They return four starters including a pair of seniors and a junior from a team that finished 6-25 and 1-7 in conference a year ago. With so many players departing the conference, the Lady Falcons will have a significant experience advantage. Coach Lance Bedar said the experience should help. “I think with all the losses from last year, the conference is pretty wide open,” said Bedar. “Factor in our experience, and I think we have a great chance to compete pretty well in conference play.” Leading the way for the Lady Falcons will be the three upperclassmen. Seniors Sami Hicks and Chelsea Cochran will lead in the backcourt. Lacey Qualls will help out on the inside and out. But Bedar said the key will be the sophomore class. “It’s a very big class (six players) and a very good class,” he said. “We are going to rely on them and the sophomore class definitely has to step up.” Four of those sophomores will see significant time, and Bedar hopes the depth will be there to get up and down the floor.
the Black Diamond West. The Red Devils have no seniors and only one junior. But youth will not be an excuse this season. A year after winning the conference, expectations will be high. A big reason why is sophomore guard Chelsea Miller. Standing at 5-9, Miller possesses great size for a perimeter player. A tenacious defender, Miller will be asked to lead SesserValier. She started every game last year as a freshman. Supporting Miller will be the team’s lone upperclassman, Tasha Doerr. Standing at 5-10, Doerr is among the tallest of the Lady Red Devils. Coach Brian Gibson said Doerr is ready for a starting role. “She is very athletic and quick for a big girl,” Gibson said, “She is in only her third year of basketball, and she now has a grasp of things and is reading to step into a key role.” Rae Lappin, a sophomore, will be responsible for running the point. Lappin saw a little over 10 minutes a game as a freshman, and the experience should help her make a smooth translation into a starting spot. A guard-oriented squad, the Lady Red Devils will run a mixture of up-tempo and set offenses while relying on pressure defense to create turnovers and additional scoring opportunities. Gibson said that while his team is young he still expects them to compete.
that earned a conference title in 2008-09. The Lady Pioneers return three starters, including a pair of seniors, from last year’s 918 squad that went 2-6 in conference. Trico is so young that seven freshman will grace the roster. But they will be lead by a standout returner in Beth Daniels. Daniels, who was allconference in volleyball, is the leading returning scorer for the Lady Pioneers and the 6-1 forward will be asked to lead the way again. “We will rely on Beth for a lot,” said coach Steve Vogt. “She will be important to our success with her actions on and off the court.” The Lady Pioneers possess pretty good size: Along with Daniels they run out four other starters who are all 5-7 or taller. But Trico will also be quick. “We think we’ll be quicker than last season,” Vogt said. “We are going to change our philosophy a little and want to get up and down the floor.”
something you haven’t seen before,” he said. “We’ve seen a few of the schools in tournaments, but not all. It will be an interesting challenge.” One thing that won’t change much is the approach. Chester returns three starters and a total of seven seniors. With four juniors also on the roster, the Lady Yellow Jackets appear deep. Powley said he hopes to be able to go 10 or 11 deep and have his depth to allow his squad to get after it defensively. On offense, Chester will try and mix it up, looking to run at times, but other times operate out of halfcourt sets. Coach: Rick Powley. Seniors: HILARY BEST. Jordan Clendenin. Ariel Gates. Jade Jolly. SHELLY LYONS. Kristy Pulliam. Rebecca Young. Juniors: Kelli Dillow. Shelby Helmers. Megan Marcinkowska. Raelyn Rosendohl. Sophomores: Chelsea Schroeder.
Zeigler-RoyaltonChristopher Zeigler-RoyaltonChristopher lost four senior starters from a team that finished 9-11 and 3-5 in conference a year ago, but many are viewing the Tornadoes as the favorites to win the Black Diamond West. One reason for that is the return of senior guard Stacy Holland. Holland is the only returning starter from last season and will be relied upon heavily to contribute. Waiting to fill the vacant starting roles are a whole host of players. Juniors Allie Mayer and Chelsey Greenwood and sophomores Brandy Mifflin and Maddy Caruso are four that coach Jeremy May is looking to have step up. All four played some varsity minutes a season ago. But perhaps more important is the depth the Tornadoes
expect to have. “Our JV lost only one game last year,” May said, “And we went undefeated in conference. We expect to get help from there and I expect we will be very deep.” The depth will help Z-RC push the tempo. May wants his team to throw in presses and create turnovers to fuel his offense. The offense will be generated by the defensive success. One key will be replacing two all-conference posts from a year ago. The opening day starter will be 6foot senior Ashleigh Opp, but she will draw help from fellow 6-footers Kaleigh Perry and Racheal Grear. Coach: Jeremy May. Seniors: STACY HOLLAND, g; Ashleigh Opp, f; McKenzie Arondelli, g. Juniors: Chelsey Greenwood, f; Allie Mayer, f; Kaleigh Perry, f; Kiley Wagner, g; Racheal Grear, f. Sophomores: Brandy Mifflin, f; Maddy Caruso, f; Marrisa Battaglia, g; Kaleigh Cole, f; Breanna Price, f. Freshmen: Ashton Beaver, c.
Coach: Steve Vogt. Seniors: BETH DANIELS, 6-1, f/g. Autumn Petroske, 5-8, f/c. Juniors: Kendra Williams. 5-9, g/f: Rebekah Dilday, 5-8, f. Sophomores: Katelyn Thies, 5-9, f; Levi Gall, 5-2, g; Lisa Luehr, 5-2, g. Freshmen: Kourtney Bunselveydr, 5-6, g; Jordan Lodge, 5-7, g; Ashley Modglin, 5-8, f; Madison Kranawetter, 5-6, f/g; Paige Ebers, 5-4, g; Rayanna Moore, 5-6, f/g; Maddi McMillan, 5-5, f.
Chester
A different look awaits Chester as they move from the SIRR Mississippi to the Coach: Lance Bedar. Seniors: CHELSEA COCHRAN, 5-5, g; SAMI HICKS, 5Black Diamond West. 4, g. Once a Class 1A school Juniors: LACEY QUALLS, 5-6, g. Coach: Brian Gibson. Sophomores: Jennifer Sarensen, 5-7, f; Corrine Juniors: Tasha Doerr, 5-10, f. among others with Class Wilson, 5-5, g; Rebecca Koranado, 5-, f;. Meghann Sophomores: Rae Lappin, 5-8, f; CHELSEA MILLER, 2A enrollments, Chester Trammel, 5-5, g; Hannah Rawson, 5-5, g; Kelsey 5-9., g; Callie Stanhouse, 5-5, g; Maegan Eskew, 5-7., will now compete against Leland, 5-0, g. g; Hannah Newell, 5-8, f. Mariah Miller, 5-10, f. Freshmen: Allecia Cross, 5-4, g; Lindsay Hasty, 5- Freshmen: Bailee Jones, 5-9, f; Maty Garner, 5-8, f; teams that are similar in 3, g; Alicen Torres, 5-2, g; Tori Porter, 5-2, g. Claire Pytlinski, 5-8, f; Mikala Williams, 5-10, f; size. Rachel Marlo, 5-10, f; Kayla Kulinski, 5-7, g. While coach Rick Powley Sesser-Valier said the change should Trico help, it also breeds unfamilSesser-Valier returns just After a down year, Trico iarity. one starter from last year’s “You’re stepping into 18-8 team that went 8-0 in will try to return to the form
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The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 19, 2010 Page 11
South Egyptian: Boys BY LES WINKELER THE SOUTHERN
Century Century posted a 15-12 mark last season, but coach Tyson Bormann has just one player back from last year. Josh Wright, a 6-foot-1 senior returns to the point guard position. “He’s a true 6-1,” Bormann said. “For this area, the teams he will be playing, he’s a good-sized guard. He sees the floor. He’s kind of a streaky shooter, but he’s a good passer.” The only other player with limited varsity experience is Cordon Hight, a sophomore. Other players likely to see playing time are senior Ryan Wilson, juniors Chance Butler, Jaron Brust, Anthony Kimmins and freshman Devontay Pullett. Coach: Tyson Bormann Seniors: JOSH WRIGHT, 6-1, g; Ryan Wilson, 5-11, g. Juniors: Chance Butler, 6-4, f; Jaron Brust, 6-3, f; Anthony Kimmins, 6-2, f. Sophomore: Cordon Hight, 6-0, g. Freshman: Devontay Pullett, 6-3, f.
Cobden Rhett Barke takes over the reins as head coach at Cobden this year. He has three returning starters in guards Rob Lehr, Bo Gearhart and Josh Aspen. Lehr was the leading scoring last year, averaging nearly 20 ppg. “He can shoot outside, and he’s got some good driving abilities,” Barke said. “He’s got quick hands and he’s quick off the dribble.” In the meantime, Gearhart is expected to hold down the post. Coach: Rhett Barke Seniors: BO GEARHART, 6-4, c; ROB LEHR, 6-0, g; Juniors: R.J. Millis, 5-10, g; R.J. Bridges, 6-3, f. Sophomore: JOSH ASPEN, 6-0, g.
Freshmen: Austin Flamm, Tyler Lewey.
Dongola There are no starters returning from last year’s 2-28 squad, but coach Russ Marsh has several players who saw extensive varsity action last year. Senior Darin Gibson, juniors Tyler Thompson and Jordan Edds and sophomores Clay Harris, Brock Patterson and Tyler Eddleman all played at the varsity level last year. Although he does have some experience, Marsh said this season could still be a learning experience. “It’s still growing pains,” he said. “A lot of them got varsity playing experience, that helps.” Coach: Russ Marsh Senior: Darin Gibson, 6-2, f. Juniors: Tyler Thompson, 6-0, g; Jordan Edds, 60, g; Justin Simms, 5-10, g. Sophomores: Tyler Eddleman, 6-4, c; Clay Harris, 6-1, f; Brock Patterson, 5-11, g; Bradley Ralls, 6-0, g; Darius Schaure, 6-0, g. Freshman: Donnie Gibson, 5-11, g.
Egyptian Egyptian’s Matt Mandrell is in reload mode this year. The Pharaohs lost 10 players to graduation last year. Starters Jhermarien Terry and Marcus Marable return, and Darmez Nelson, Keyontae Woodson and Devantae Price all saw some varsity action. “Those five, they did get some varsity experience,” Mandrell said. “They’ve done fairly well at the lower levels. Hopefully, as the season goes on we can be competitive. Coach: Matt Mandrell Seniors: JHERMARIEN TERRY, 5-8, g. Juniors: MARCUS MARABLE, 6-1, f; Darmez Nelson, 6-0, g; Keyontae Woodson, 6-3, c. Sophomore: Devantae Price, 6-0, g.
Egyptian Conference is memorable. Goreville is moving to the Black Diamond Conference next year. “We’ll miss the SEC,” Tripp said. “We’ve always gotten along with everyone in this conference. It’s what I played in and coached in, but we’re also looking forward to being in the Black Diamond.” Goreville returns starters Lee Sopczak (5-11 senior) and Caleb Kinder (6-3 senior) from last year’s 22-8 team. Coach: Todd Tripp Seniors: CALEB KINDER, 6-3, f; LEE SOPCZAK, 511, g; Nick Andros, 6-6, f; Alex Stout, 6-2, f; Cody Smith, 5-9, g; Dakota Runge, 6-1, f; Jordan Madden, 6-2, f. Juniors: Nate Webb, 6-2, f.
Joppa Joppa’s Rangers are hoping to turn last year’s 10-16 mark around. There are just two returning starters, but Travis Beck and Dakota Parker, both 6-2, were the team’s leading scorers last year. Beck, a junior, averaged 16 ppg last year, and Parker, a senior, averaged just less than 13 points. Two other seniors, Jake Wolfe, a guard-forward, and Tucker Harris, a guard, both averaged close to six points last year. Coach: Trebor Hill Seniors: DAKOTA PARKER, 6-2, f; Jake Wolfe, 6-0, g-f; Tucker Harris, 5-10, g. Carson Godfrey, 5-10, g; Kasey Garris, 6-0, g. Juniors: TRAVIS BECK, 6-2, g, Jeremy Gurley, 5-9, g; Dalton Godfrey, 6-3, f. Sophomore: Alex Copley, 5-11, g; Jon Harris, 5-9, g; Austin Arrison, 5-10, g. Freshmen: Andy Walquist, 6-4, f; Trey Sharp, 61, f; Tyler Castleman, 5-8 g; Justin Harvill, 5-9, g.
Meridian
Jeff Mandrell has just two starters returning from last year’s 29-2 squad that Goreville lost to Sesser-Valier in the Goreville coach Todd sectional finals. Tripp hopes the Blackcats SEE SEC BOYS / PAGE 11 final year in the South
Page 12 Friday, November 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
South Egyptian: Girls BY LES WINKELER THE SOUTHERN
Century Kayla Eddington will be the headliner for Century this season. Eddington, a 5-foot-5 senior guard, is the only returning starter from David Dexter’s 15-12 2009-10 club. “She’s a heckuva player,” Dexter said. “She’s right under 1,400 points going into her senior year. She’s hit close to 200 3-pointers going into her senior season. She’ll have to have a big year. She’s just a really good player.” Moving up from the junior varsity will be Lauren Taake, a 5-8 junior, who got some playing time last year. Raven Merryman and Chelsea Ruffo, both 5-5 juniors, will also make the transition to varsity ball. Coach: David Dexter Seniors: KAYLA EDDINGTON, 5-5, g. Juniors: Lauren Taake, 5-8, f; Raven Merryman, 55, g; Chelsea Ruffo, 5-5, g; Kayla Reagan, 5-8, f. Sophomores: Natalie Hubbard, 5-5, g; Kelly Anderson, 5-6, g. Freshmen: Morgan Atherton, 5-9, f; Amanda Cheek, 5-7, g; Shelby Penrod, 5-4, g; Amber Davis, 5-11, c.
Cobden Cobden advanced to the Salem Supersectional last year, but has just one starter, Kayla Quertermous, returning from that 26-6 club. “Kayla is the one we’re looking to pick up some of the scoring load we lost last year,” said coach Travis Foster. “She’s a hard worker. She’s going to have to be the go-to scorer this year. She was the third leading scorer last year, so she’ll have to be the No. 1 option this year.” Quertermous was also the team’s second leading rebounder last year. She is a 5-8 senior. Three other players, Bekah Russell, a 5-4, junior,
Maria Piper, a 5-9 senior, a problem.” and Alysha Bottje, a 5-6 Coach: Erin Jackson senior, all saw some playing Seniors: DOMINIQUE ROSS, 5-4, g; Amethyst Massie, 5-9, f. time last year. Coach: Travis Foster Seniors: KAYLA QUERTERMOUS, 5-8, c; Maria Piper, 5-9, f; Alysha Bottje, 5-6, g, Jordyn Grey, 5-7, f. Juniors: Bekah Russell, 5-4, g.
Dongola
Juniors: SAMANTHA HILL, 5-7, f. Sophomores: MORGAN BUSBY, 5-7, f; Katie Heinrich, 5-3, g. Freshmen: Kayde Wood, 5-9, f; Jimberlea Bledsoe, 5-4, g.
Goreville
With four starters returning from last year’s 25-3 team, the Goreville Blackcats appear to bet the team to beat in the South Egyptian Conference. This is the final year Goreville will be in the SEC. The Blackcats will be moving to the Black Diamond next year. “We would want to win it no matter what,” said Goreville coach Mike Helton. “I can’t say there is any more incentive there based on the experience we have coming back. It would be much nicer to win it as we leave than lose it as we leave.” The returnees include Coach: Preston Hall Cayla Harner, Seniors: DOMINIQUE SCHOUER, 5-6, f; JODY seniors SCHULTZ, 5-5, g. Caitlyn Parmalee and Jodie Juniors: EMILY TERBAK, 6-1, c-f; MICHAELA Wright and junior Shelbey PENROD, 5-4, g. Sophomores: HALEY FULLER, 5-4, g; Katie Latham Miller. “Experience is not an Egyptian issue,” Helton said. “TheBalance and effort will be y’re all played in conference games, the key for Erin Jackson’s championship regional final games.” Lady Pharaohs this year. Jackson has three starters Coach: Mike Helton returning in Dominique Seniors: CAYLA HARNER, 5-9, f; CAITLYN PARMALEE, 5-8, f; JODIE WRIGHT, 5-6, g. Ross, a 5-4 senior; Juniors: SHELBEY MILLER, 5-4, g; Chiara Hall, 5-6, Samantha Hill, a 5-7, junior, g; Ashley Webb, 5-2, g. Alison Webb, 5-11, c; Jesse Wright, 5and Morgan Busby, a 5-7, Sophomores: 9, f. sophomore. Amethyst Massie, a 5-9 senior, Meridian returns after a one-year Dawn Turner will have absence and Katie Heinrich, a 5-3 sophomore, four starters returning from got some playing time last last year’s squad. The Bobcats will be year. Two freshmen that could something of an anomaly have an impact are Kayde this year – they’re short, Wood and Jimberlea but rebounding will be one of their strong suits. Bledsoe. “Oddly (one of the team’s “They’re hard workers,” Jackson said. “Talent-wise, strengths) is our size,” it’s not like this is one play- Turner said. er that stands out. Height is The good news for Lady Demons’ coach Preston Hall is he has six starters returning from last year’s team. On the other hand, Dongola finished just 2-20 last year. “We should have won 6-8 games last year,” Hall said. “We lost about five games in the last few minutes. Last year we were in a bunch of games, but we had trouble finishing.” The Lady Demons had just seven players at times last year. Basketball was reinstated two years ago after the program had been dropped.
SEE SEC GIRLS / PAGE 11
Greater Egyptian: Boys BY JEREMY JOFFRAY THE SOUTHERN
Carrier Mills For the past five years, Carrier Mills has dominated the Greater Egyptian Conference. The Wildcats have lost just two conference games during that span, and have averaged more than 20 wins a season. Over the past two years, Carrier Mills has won 51 games. Just two seasons ago, the Wildcats made to the sectional round. Coach: Mark Motsinger Seniors: DILLON HARRISON, 5-11, g; J.R. Brown, 511, wing; Josh Smith, 6-3, f. Juniors: Gabe Morgan, 6-4, wing; Colin Crim, 510, g.
Galatia
Hardin County
Galatia will lean on senior guards Denton Reed and Kody Tennison as the Bearcats try to compete conference. Reed, a three-year starter, is a returning allconference point guard. The Bearcats will look for strong perimeter defense from both Reed and Tennison.
Hardin County will have to rely on a young squad in coach Rodney Lane’s first year at the helm. Lane inherits a squad that has just one senior on the roster, starter Austin German. German, and junior Kyle Holloman, are the lone returning starters. “We’re trying to get a little spark in the program, and some discipline,” Lane said.
Coach: Bob Belford Seniors: DENTON REED, 5-11, g; KODY TENNISON, 5-8, g; Tyler McCormick, 6-4, f; Clayton Baggett, 64, f; Weston Fulkerson, 6-2, f; Damon Jackson, 6-0, f; James Lynn, 5-11, f. Juniors: Josh Moore, 6-1, f; Tyler Goldsberry, 5-9, g; Travis Bond, 5-9, g.
Gallatin County
Coming off a 26-5 season, including a 12-2 mark in the GEC, Crab Orchard will look to dethrone defending conference champion Carrier Mills. Crab Orchard returns three starters, including 6-5 center Ben Kissing and 5-10 guard Drew Johnson, perhaps two of the top players in the conference.
Gallatin County will sport one of the tallest squads among local small schools, with a starting lineup that features 6-11 sophomore Andrew Drone and three other players 6-2 or taller. Drone averaged 13 points as a freshman starter. Fellow sophomore Dane Hish, the lone starter under six feet, averaged seven points a game.
Coach: Jon Brown Seniors: Brandon Boester, 6-0, f; Dylan Hutson, 511, g Juniors: DREW JOHNSON, 5-10, g; BEN KISSING, 6-5, f; COTY WECE, 5-8, g. Sophomores: Clinty Emery, 5-9, f; Ty Bailey, 6-2, c.
Coach: Robert Patton Senior: Adam Westbrook, 6-3, f. Juniors: ANDREW COX, 6-2, f; Drake Patton, 6-0, f; Brian Aud, 5-10, g. Sophomores: ANDREW DRONE, 6-11, c; DANE HISH, 5-10, g; Patrick Lowe, 6-4, f; Anthony Storto, 5-7, g.
Crab Orchard
Freshmen: Briar Short, 5-6, g; Cole Tucker, 5-10, g; Dakota Wheeler, 5-11, c.
Pope County
BY JEREMY JOFFRAY
Former standout athlete Cody Dunbar will take over a Pope County squad that managed just two wins a year ago. Dunbar comes into his first coaching job with a big challenge in front of him. Whether the Pirates have much success in the win column this season is yet to be determined, but Dunbar’s presence has helped spark the program.
Coach: Rodney Lane Seniors: AUSTIN GERMAN, 5-11, f. Juniors: KYLE HOLLOMAN, 5-9, g; Joe McClenahan, 6-2, c; Brandon Flemmings, 6-1, f; Garrett Flemmings, 5-9, g; Tony Parkinson, 5-10, g; Kyle Spurr, 6-0, f; David Thornton, 6-0, c/f. Sophomores: Skyler Williams, 5-11, f; Dalton Vaughn, 5-10, f; Cody Crider, 5-7, g; Skyler Duncan, 5-6; g. Freshmen: Jeremy Hicks, 6-0, f; Garrett Walker, 5-4, g; DJ Crider, 5-8, f.
Coach: Cody Dunbar Seniors: Stephen Simmons, 6-3, f; Jacob Dunning, 6-1, f; Cole Jackson, 6-0, f. Sophomores: Cory Rison, 6-1, f; Tyler Thompson, 5-10, g; Bruce Dunlap, 5-11, g; Dallas Cockrum, 6-1, f; Kyle Wise, 5-9, g.
NCOE
Thompsonville
After averaging 19 wins a season over the past three years, Norris City-OmahaEnfield will be in a rebuilding year this season following the graduation of all five starters. The Fighting Cardinals lost about 97 percent of their scoring from a year ago.
After taking their lumps as juniors, the Tigers will feature a senior-laden starting lineup. Scott Gaither, Zach Lindsey, Zach Fisher and Dale Pack all return from a team that finished 3-23 last year. “These guys last year were thrown into the fire,” Thompsonville coach Brandon Chaplain said.
Coach: Doug Miller Seniors: Cody Sutton, 5-10, g; Randy Stecyk, 5-7, g; Kalin Brinkley, 5-9, g; Colby Payne, 5-10, g. Sophomores: Justin Knight, 6-1, c; Luke Marsh, 511, f; Jordan Gwaltney, 5-6, g; Matt Frymier, 5-11, f; Chayce Cowlings, 5-11, g; Rowdy Damm, 5-11, f; Caleb Brown, 5-10, g; Devin Bowman, 5-11, f.
Greater Egyptian: Girls
Coach: Brandon Chaplain Seniors: SCOTT GAITHER, 5-8, g; ZACH LINDSEY, 511, g; ZACH FISHER, 6-3, f; DALE PACK, 6-2, f; Riley Taylor, 6-2, g.
the first week of practice on fitness. “We’re not very big, but they are pretty quick, and Galatia-Thompsonville they can shoot the ball a litFirst-year Galatia coach tle better than I thought we Josh Summers has high would,” Ingram said. “We hopes for a squad with can get up and down the three returning starters. floor.” The Lady Cats return Coach: Chuck Ingram seven players in all from last Seniors: Taylor Williford, 5-8, f; Meagan Milburn, f. year’s squad. Galatia’s 5-11, Juniors: Rebecca Bourland, 5-3, g; Casey Crissup, experience, which includes 5-3, g; Marie Tipton, 5-6, g; Carrie Abell, 5-11, f. a total of four seniors, Sophomores: Lexi Prince, 5-2, g; Emily Logsdon, should help the transition 5-7, f; Kailyn Wead, 5-6, g; Kacy Speer, 5-3, g of a new coach. Pope County “I have a high level of Pope County will have to excitement about the start of a new era at Galatia,” rely on youth this season, as coach Josh Summers said. the Lady Pirates do not “The team has shown lots have a senior on the roster. While the squad may be of promise and potential to young, the Lady Pirates have a great season.” have seen their numbers Coach: Josh Summers Seniors: AMANDA GARDNER, 5-3, g; HANNAH increase from last year. COCHRUM, 5-5, g; KANDI GULLEY, 5-9, f; Brandi After finishing the season Pritchett, 5-7, f. with just seven players last Juniors: Ally Nolen, 5-6, g; Amber Stevens, 5-5, g. season, Pope County has 11 Sophomore: Tayler Sweet, 5-1, g. Freshmen: Layna Bond, 5-5, g; Courtney Tennison, girls out this season. That 5-7, f; Kasey Bowlin, 5-4, g; Kelsey Nolen, 5-5, g. will allow coach Jessi Hall to field a junior varsity Gallatin County squad at times this season. “In the long run it will If nothing else, Gallatin make us better,” Hall said. County’s girls basketball team will be fit. Coach: Jessi Hall SARAH FERGUSON, 5-9, f; Ashley Morris, With new head coach Juniors: 5-9, f, Jaclyn Kingsley, 5-5, g Chuck Ingram at the helm, Sophomores: SAMMIE VALESTIN, 5-8, f; SARAH Gallatin County will look to MAYNOR, 5-7, g; Audrey Harris, 5-3, g. Tori Vaughn, 5-9, g; Brittany Noel, 5-5, use its fitness level to wear Freshmen: g; McKenzie Schutt, 5-6, g; Jessica Morris, 5-8, f; teams down. Ingram spent Hannah Trammel, 5-10, f. THE SOUTHERN
SEC BOYS: Eight teams duke it out for top spot SEC GIRLS: Shawnee looks to improve FROM PAGE 12 Returnees include 6-3 junior Jerry Johnson, a center, and guard Brent Kennedy, a 6-1, senior. “He (Johnson) really has a nose for the ball as far as rebounding,” Mandrell said. “He blocks a lot of shots. He has the ability to be a defensive presence.” Coach: Jeff Mandrell Seniors: BRENT KENNEDY, 5-10, g; Brandon Madison, 5-10, g.
Juniors: JERRY JOHNSON, 6-3, c, Cameron Ballard, 5-9, g Sophomores: Josh Jones, 6-3, f.
Shawnee Shawnee’s Redskins are starting with a clean slate this year. First-year coach Tim Ellis has no returning starters from a squad that won just five games last year. “It’s going to be a total rebuilding year,” Ellis aid.
“I have three players that have some varsity experience. We lost six seniors.” The three players with some varsity experience are seniors Ty McMahan and Dylan Smith and junior Andrew Livesay. At 6-1, Livesay is the tallest player on the squad. Coach: Tim Ellis Seniors: Ty McMahan, 5-5, g; Dylan Smith, 6-1, f. Juniors: Gage Shelton, 5-5, g; Andrew Livesay, 61, f.
FROM PAGE 12 “We’re short, but we’re big, strong girls. We’ll be boxing people out.” None of the four returning starters – Jazmine Meeks, Sklar Blake, Jane Busby or Tasha Dixon – are taller than 5-7. “Our tallest girl will be 5-8, and that’s her basketball height,” Turner said. Coach: Dawn Turner
throughout the season. They learn from their mistakes and keep getting better.” Kaylee Boston, a 5-6 senior guard, was the Shawnee leading scorer last Three starters and six year, averaging about 15 part-time players return ppg. from Shawnee’s 13-10 Coach: Chad Pitts squad last year. Seniors: KAYLEE BOSTON, 5-6, g; Morganne “They’re all hard work- Kennedy, 5-7, f. ers,” said coach Chad Sophomores: JORDAN JOHNSON, 5-9, f; TAYLOR ELLIS, 5-9, f; Bethany McMahan, 5-5, g; April Pitts. They’re willing to Kutak, 5-3, g; Gwen Kuehne, 5-8, f; Taylor learn different things Loveless, 5-6, g. Seniors: JAZMINE MEEKS, 5-6, g; Laquisha Anderson, 5-6, f; Kristian Smith, 5-5, g. Juniors: SKLAR BLAKE, 5-5, g; JANE BUSBY, 5-7, f; TASHA DIXON, 5-5, g; Sarah Fletch-Moore, 5-5, g; Rashida Earl, 5-7, f; Jamilla Valentine, 5-7, f.
The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 19, 2010 Page 13
Independents: Boys
SIRR MISSISSIPPI: Boys should be close race FROM PAGE 4
Pinckneyville The tradition-rich Pinckneyville Panthers will look to six players with starter’s experience to make an impact in 2009-10. Pinckneyville is upperclassmen-heavy this season, with one sophomore (Dylan Hardin), six juniors and three seniors on the varsity roster. That’s just fine for coach Bob Waggoner. “Traditionally, we always put an emphasis on our senior players,” Waggoner said. “We expect our three seniors to lead us and those will be the ones who take us as far as we want to go.” Steve Brueggeman, Christian Shopinski and Kyle Lamb are all back for
their final season in the Columbia blue and white. Lamb is the team’s tallest player at 6-7, but teams will also have to contend with Keegan Kellerman’s 6-1, 270-pound frame underneath the basket.
said Williams, whose team lost to Pinckneyville in the Chester regional championship to end the 2009-10 season. “We got to the championship game in three tournaments last year.” Jordan Thompson, London Oliver and Weslyn Coach: Bob Waggoner Seniors: KYLE LAMB, 6-7, f; STEVE Kiner have locked down BRUEGGEMAN, 6-3, f; CHRISTIAN SHOPINSKI, 6- starting roles for the 2, f. Juniors: BRYANT SHUTE, 5-8, g; HUNTER Bulldogs, with four or five QUEEN, 5-10, g; Justin Bumann, 6-0, f; Keegan juniors in contention for Kellerman, 6-1, f; Payton Nippe, 6-2, g; C.J. Opp, the final two spots. 6-2, f. Sparta will get an early Sophomore: DYLAN HARDIN, 5-10, g. opportunity to permanently fill those roles, the Sparta Bulldogs visit MarissaAfter a 10-win improve- Coulterville to open the ment from two years ago, season Monday. second-year Sparta coach Rich Williams welcomes Coach: Rich Williams JORDAN THOMPSON, 6-0, g; LONDON back three starters from a Seniors: OLIVER, 6-0, f; WESLEN KINER, 6-5, f; Adam team that went 18-12 last White, 5-10, g; Carl Lobdell, 5-10, g. Juniors: Austin Peck, 6-0, f; Chad Hanna, 5-10, season. “We’d like to put our- g; Trevor Morgan, 5-11, f; Tyler Morrison, 6-1, f; Darius Jackson, 6-0, f; Alek Sopiars, 6-0, g. selves in position to win a Sophomores: Aaron Rushing, 6-7, c; Sharvell regional championship,” Austin, 5-9, g.
Page 14 Friday, November 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan
BY CHUCK HIGHLAND THE SOUTHERN
Cairo
Jonathan Mehring’s team will rely on defense and transition offense to help a Soldiers team that finished 5-6 last season and returns one senior, Cory Rehmer. “We have a good defense so we will rely on transition offense to score a lot of points,” said Mehring. COSL has only six players, and Mehring said his team will rely on intangibles.
There will be a new face patrolling the sidelines and a fresh outlook for the Pilots as Rich McBride, a former basketball standout for University of Illinois, takes over the reins of the program from Tommy Ellis. He returns two starters, sophomore Devin Mayfield Jonathan Mehring and senior Mark Jones, and Coach: Seniors: Eric Jolly, 6-0, g is looking to build a pro- Juniors: CORY REHMER, 6-2, f; Jeremy Rogers, 6-1, gram that lost a lot of sen- g Sophomores: Luke Boeder, 6-3, c; Marcus Delre, 5iors and is looking to find its 7, g Freshmen: Kyle Wandro, 5-8, f way. “We have enough talent to overcome youth. We lost Okawville a lot of seniors and are very The Rockets returns three young,” McBride said. starters from last year’s 1815 team, and coach Jon Coach: Rich McBride Seniors: MARK JONES, 6-0, g; Herschel Graham, 6- Kraus will rely a combina1, g; RaKeem Dossie, 6-1, f; Lamarqus Woods, 5-10, tion youth and experience g, Correy Wilson, 5-9, g; Danoin Smith, 6-1. f. Juniors: Allen Crutbird, 6-3, c; Stevieon Houston, 5- more than ever. 11, g; Cori Williams, 5-7, g; NeKuma Johnson, 6-2, f; “We play pretty hard. We Cordell Johnson, 6-5, f; Darrel Jackson, 5-5, g; Jalen started two freshmen and a Childs, 6-3, f. Sophomores: DEVIN MAYFIELD, 5-10, g; Devante sophomore, and they Johnson, 5-8, g; Lamont young, 5-11, f. played a tough schedule and went through some growCarlyle ing pains, and they gained a Seventh-year coach Andy lot of experience,” Kraus Palmer hopes youth will be said. served as the Indians played Kraus is hoping that a lot of underclassmen last experience translates into season, and he said that is better decision making. going to pay dividends. Coach: Jon Kraus “I think our depth is Seniors: Cameron Obermeier, 6-2, g-f. going to be better even Juniors: TAYLOR WALTON, 6-2, f; Ryan Holtgrave, f; Bryce Kolweier, 6-2, f; Bennett Brown, 6-1, f; though we’re young (only 6-1, Carl Gaebe, 6-0, g; Brandon Buss, 6-0, f; Jared three seniors),” Palmer said. Blumhorst, 6-0, f. Returning from last year’s Sophomores: Connor Obermeier, 5-9, g; JEREMY WEEKE, 6-2, f; RYAN BURROUGH, 5-11, g. 6-24 team is senior guard Freshman: Jacob Brammeier, 5-9, g. Jared Linton, junior guard Jordan Smith and junior Steeleville forward Jordan Ledbetter. Steeleville returns four Coach: Andy Palmer starters, seniors Colin Seniors: Joe McGee, 6-1, f; JARED LINTON, 5-10, g; Smith, Andrew Brady Hempen, 6-3, c. Juniors: Hunter Hartung, 6-2, f; JORDAN SMITH, 5- Pokrzywinski, Coire Reel, 11, g; Zach Voss, 6-5, c. Sophomores: Cody Huels, 6-0, g; Nathan Miller, 6- and Nick Potter, from last 4, f; JORDAN LEDBETTER, 6-0, g; Tyson Boehne, 6- year’s 17-18 team that fin0, g; Karnealus Walker, 6-0, f. Freshmen: John Becker, 6-1, f; Matt Hilmes, 6-2, g; ished second in the Cahokia Conference. Thus, expecLogan Zachry, 5-10, g. tations are high for coach Gerald Mumbower. Christ Our “We’re good enough to Savior Lutheran beat anybody, and we’re Second-year coach also bad enough to lose to
anybody. We only lost one senior last year. We have nine seniors, and we need to have a good year,” Mumbower said. Coach: Gerald Mumbower Seniors: COLIN SMITH, 6-2, g-f; NICK POTTER, 6-0, g; James Hall, 5-11, g; COIRE REEL, 6-5, f; Joey Wittenbrink, 6-1, g; Kris Beshears, 5-10, g; Jeremy Wilson, 6-0, f; ANDREW POKRZYWINSKI, 5-11, g; Torrey Gerberding, 6-3, g. Juniors: Jacob Combs, 5-10, g; Jeff Wilson, 6-4, f. Sophomores: Dylan Wesbecher, 6-0, g; Darin Winkelman, 6-4, f; Reid Wilson, 6-2, g-f.
Waltonville There will be a lot of changes in Waltonville as Chad Harper, a four-year assistant for the Cardinals, takes over the reins of the boys program. His first year in Waltonville presents some challenges as the Cardinals return no starters from a 22-7 team. “We will be all right by Christmas. As the season progresses, the kids will have to adjust to the pace of the game,” Harper said. Coach: Chad Harper Seniors: Luke Stanhouse, 5-11, f; Brandon McCoy, 5-9, c; Travis Beppler, 5-10, f; Bryce Askew, 5-10, f; Levi Kabat, 5-7, g. Juniors: Levi Rapp, 5-10, f; Dan Halleran, 6-1, c. Sophomores: Jordan Hale, 6-5, g; Trey Witges, 63, g; Matt Rodgers, 6-0, f; Patrick Buza, 6-1, f; Derek Whisenant, 5-9, g; Taylor Ellison, 5-8, g; Brendan Barva, 6-0, g; Aaron McCoy, 5-9, g; Levi Laird, 5-8, g. Freshmen: Austin Zahm, 6-2, c; Justin Winchester, 5-9, g; D.J. Nelson, 5-6, g; Hunter Coggins, 5-9, g.
Woodlawn The Cardinals return two starters from last year’s 266 team that made it all the way to the Salem Supersectional. To duplicate that feat, Woodlawn will have to have different people step up for coach Shane Witzel. “Once the younger players gain varsity experience, we have the chance to be a pretty good team,” Witzel said. Coach: Shane Witzel Seniors: JOSH WIGGS, 6-8, c; DAWSON VERHINES, 6-3, g; Jeremy Aparicio, 6-0, g. Juniors: Christian Hollenkamp, 6-4, f; A.J. Webb, 5-11, g. Sophomores: Gabe Owens, 6-3, g.
Independents: Girls
Expectations high in Murphysboro BY SCOTT MEES
BY CHUCK HIGHLAND THE SOUTHERN
Cairo Coach Jim Drew has 10 girls on the team, which finished 12-6 last season. “We return two leading scorers (Chalice Gardner and Ortrese Bridges, captains and leaders who averaged more than 20 points per game last year), and we are going to count on them for most of our scoring,” said Drew. Drew feels like his team is going to be good, and early-season tournaments should prepare it for the rest of the season. A key for the Pilots will be getting points in transition. “We’ve got to get the ball out and push it down the floor and get easy baskets,” said Drew. Coach: Jim Drew Juniors: ORTRESE BRIDGES, 5-8, g; CHALICE GARDNER, 5-4, g; Kiara Jackson, 5-7, g. Sophomores: Dejahne Washington, 5-9, c; TiAnn Kee, 5-7, f; Sanara Rush, 5-7, f; Jamia Kyles, 5-7, g. Freshmen: Manda Hanges, 5-2, f; Jordan Holder, 5-7, f.
Carlyle A little bit of experience returns to the Carlyle sideline as Randy Voss, a Carlyle Junior High coach for 20 years, takes over the reins of a Lady Indians program trying to find its way after going 4-21 last season. “Since we’ve had a lot of success with the kids in junior high, we’re going to take what we did in junior high and use it in highschool ball. It’s kind of been a growing process,” said Voss. Carlyle has a lot of youth and experience returning., inlcuding leading scorer Paige Rakers. Coach: Randy Voss Seniors: Paige Mueller, 5-8, g; Samantha Harlan, 5-6, g. Juniors: Jenna Huels, 5-7, g; Cati Funderburk, 5-
playing time for the Lady Warriors will be freshmen MacKenzie Doeding and Sara Potter and junior Morgan Lindner, who played a lot last year. Senior Ali Byer will also see some minutes. “Height will be a problem. I look for us to have a Okawville good year if we can shoot, Coach Michelle Burianek rebound and take care of enters her second year the ball,” said Winkelman. hoping her team is more battle tested after her first Coach: Darryl Winkelman Seniors: Ali Byer, 5-5, f; JILL WINKELMAN, 5-10, f. season as coach. Juniors: NATALIE RUEBKE, 5-7, g; Morgan Lindner, “Hopefully, we gained a 5-6, f; Kelsey Wright, 5-6, f. lot of experience from last Sophomores: KASSEE THEOBALD, 5-5, g; ALEX GALE, 5-8, f; Tara Stoffel, 5-6, g. year, and we play better Freshmen: MacKenzie Doeding, 5-8, f; Alana Grimm, 5-7, g; McKenna Lalis, 5-7, f; Sara Potter, 5defense,” said Burianek. Junior Alyssa 8, g; Brammeier, Alanna Bergkoetter, sophomore Woodlawn Megan Wienstroer, Jolyn Coach Eric Helbig has Lake and Courtney very high expectations for Lintker, who started last his team after the Lady season, will most likely Cardinals went 21-7 last start for the Lady Rockets. season, finished in a threeThere are a lot of way tie for first place with unknowns for Okawville, North Clay and South and Burianek is looking for Central and lost to Cobden someone to step up. in the sectional final. “Going to the sectional Coach: Michelle Burianek Seniors: COURTNEY LINTKER. 5-7. final last year and having Juniors: ALYSSA BRAMMEIER, 6-1; HANNA all five starters back, we BERGKOETTER, 5-10. Sophomores: Lyndsay Fuhrhop, 5-4; JOLYN have high expectations, LAKE, 5-5; Ashley Garlich, 5-5; Emily Norton, 5-5; and we’re hoping to comMEGAN WIENSTROER, 5-9; Janel Lake, 5-11; Keatyn pete for a conference title Meier, 6-1. Freshmen: Brooke Cronin, 5-6; Allison Koch, 5-6; and make a postseason Christina Hill, 5-6. run,” said Helbig. A lot of the reason for Steeleville optimism in Woodlawn is An extra year of experi- that the Lady Cardinals ence should help a Lady return all five starters from Warriors team that fin- last year. “We’re kind of balanced ished its second year of basketball with an 11-12 and have a couple of strong record, good for third place guards and post players, so in the Cahokia Conference. we need to be flexible,” said “We should have some Helbig. Helbig also feels his team experience this year. I needs to use their guard started four underclassmen last year, so I’ve got strength to their advantage experience coming back as well. with senior Jill Coach: Eric Helbig Winkelman, junior Natalie Seniors: Tailor Renaud. 5-7, g; Bria McKinzie, 5-5, Ruebke and sophomores g; Brook Mitchell, 5-5, g; WHITNEY LOWERY, 5-10, MALLORY HAPEMAN, 5-9, f. Alex Gale and Kassee f;Juniors: Harley Mullins, 5-4, g; KINZIE VERHINES, Theobald,” said Steeleville 5-7, g-f; Tiffany Smith, 5-7, f; LEAH SUTTON, 5-8, g. girls’ coach Darryl Sophomores: ALEXA CAPPS, 5-5, g; Elesa Hefner, 5-7, g-f. Winkelman. Freshmen: Libby Diel, 5-6, f; Sam Williams, 5-7, g; Also seeing significant Megan Isaac, 5-10, f.
5, f; Courtney Kern, 5-8, f. Sophomores: Taylor Aarns, 5-5, g; Taylor Rose, 58, g; Shaelyn Tate, 5-7, g; PAIGE RAKERS, 5-11, g; SARAH HAAKE, 5-10, f; Courtney Toennies, 5-9, f; Miranda Diekemper, 5-8, f; JESSIE BECKMANN, 510, c; SEDREYANA HARRIS, 5-10, f. Freshmen: Brie Paulsmeyer, 5-6, g; Kylee Ledbetter, 5-6, g; Hannah Rueter, 5-8, g-f; Natalie Van Dorn, 5-6, g-f; Sarah Norton, 5-6, g; Lori Whisenand, 5-9, f; Brianna Smith, 5-9, g-f; Britlyn Tyberent, 5-9, c; McKenzie Magnus, 5-11, c.
THE SOUTHERN
The Murphysboro Red Devils certainly have their business faces on. The team finished 29-3 last season and made it to the West Frankfort supersectional. They’ll have the proverbial bull’s-eye on their back this year, and that’s just fine with them. “I think it’s great to have high expectations,” said senior point guard Jerrod Gaston. “Coach told us our expectations are probably too high, so we have to stay focused no matter how well we do. We need to stay hungry and gun for other teams and not let them do that to us. We haven’t accomplished anything yet.” The Red Devils have five of their top six players back from last season’s undefeated SIRR Ohio Division club. It all starts with Gaston, a lightning quick guard with a great pull-up jump shot. Most teams didn’t get to see what he’s capable of individually because last year’s team was so balanced, and that won’t change this year. “We could run with the ball really well and our shot selection and execution was very good,” said Murphysboro coach Daryl Murphy. “We could force turnovers and that made our offense highly efficient. I thought our defense was really good and the kids took a lot of pride in that as well.” Orlando Jarrett (6-0) and Pierre House (6-1) return at the guard spots. Jarrett is a tough-as-nails defender who can score in transition and hit a few 3-pointers as well. House, who was the team’s sixth man last season, is primed to have a breakout year this time around. “We’re not going to sneak up on anybody this year, and I thought we did that a
THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO
Murphysboro’s Jerrod Gaston makes a move last season.
little bit last year,” Murphy said. “Our expectations are really high right now, but I don’t think our kids will blow it out of proportion. They put pressure on themselves every day, but we want them to have a lot of fun playing basketball, too.” The Red Devils haven’t had a true big man in several years, but the combination of forwards Dylan Craig (6-3) and Eben Brooks (6-3) have made up for that. Craig can score in the paint and drop a handful of 3-pointers on an opposing team at any time. Brooks, the starting quarterback for the football team and one of the baseball team’s best pitchers, is one of those players that every team loves to have. He’s not going to score 20 points a game, but he does all of the little things very well. “I like my role and it makes me play harder and more determined,” Brooks said. “There is some pressure this year, but I think I’ll handle it well. I don’t think we expected what hap-
pened last year, but we’re ready to step up again.” Murphysboro executed on offense and defense quite well last season. Although they do have 6-5 center Jordan Stanton, who can jump out of the gym, to help them this year, Craig and Brooks will need to slow down opposing post players. “Those two have great work ethic,” Murphy said of Craig and Brooks. “When you’re shorter and giving up inches in the post you have to hustle twice as hard and have great footwork. They’ve displayed that and shown nothing but heart.” The team will have to replace its leading scorer, Dre’Shean Payne. He had no problem taking and making all of the big shots. He’ll be missed for sure, but this group was more about cohesiveness as a team than one guy. “The thing we’ll miss the most is his leadership,” Murphy said. scott.mees@thesouthern.com 618-351-5086
The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 19, 2010 Page 15
EE COME S E TH F O E M SO ENT L A T & MS A E T P !! O Y T R T N U O IN THE C 3rd Annual Best of the Midwest Shootout Schedule Marion High School - Marion, Illinois
Aaron Adeoye
Sam Thompson
Devin Langford
Jabari Parker
Marion High School
Whitney Young, Illinois Commited to Ohio State
Lee High School, Alabama Recruited by Illinois, Wake Forest and Alabama
Simeon High School Recruited by Kansas, Georgetown, Michigan State
Session 1: Friday, Dec. 10, 2010 5:30 GAME 1: BREHM PREP, IL. VS. SUMMIT CHRISTIAN, MI. 7:00 GAME 2: MARION, IL. VS. LAFAYETTE, MO. 8:30 GAME 3: LEE HIGH SCHOOL, AL. VS. WHITNEY YOUNG, IL.
Session 2: Sat. Dec. 11, 2010 11:00 GAME 4: MARION, IL. GIRLS VS. JACKSON, MO. GIRLS 12:30 GAME 5: BREHM PREP, IL. VS. RISE ACADEMY, PA. 2:00 GAME 6: VASHON, MO. VS. CARBONDALE, IL.
Otto Porter Scott Co. Recuited by Missouri, Memphis, Arkansas
Dantiel Daniels Holt High School Commited to SIU
Session 3: Sat. Dec. 11, 2010 5:30 GAME 7: PINCKNEYVILLE, IL. VS. MURPHYSBORO, IL. 7:00 GAME 8: MARION, IL. VS. HOLT HIGH SCHOOL, MO. 8:30 GAME 9: SIMEON, IL. VS. SCOTT COUNTY, MO.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Contact Marion High School at 618-993-8196, ext. 249 Single Session Chair $8.00 • Single Session General Admission $5.00 • All Session Chair $20.00 • All Session General Admission $10.00 Check us out on our website: mhs.marionunit2.org Page 16 Friday, November 19, 2010 The Southern Illinoisan