2011-12 Prep Basketball Preview

Carbondale Carbondale coach Jim Miller has a big task ahead of him with only four players returning from last year’s team that tied for fourth in the South Seven at 3-7 and finished 15-14.

“We’re excited,” Miller said. “We’re young and inexperienced, but the reason I’m looking forward to the season is because we’re very athletic, so you’re going see some different things from us this year.”

Miller has no returning starters, but he has some intriguing starting candidates in 7-foot center Felipe Rech, 6-6 forward/center Sam Strus and guard/forward Elijah Bidinger.

“Sam gives us some size, is one of our best jumpers and has a great mid-range shot,” Miller said. “Another good addition is Felipe. He has great footwork, runs the floor extremely well and plays well with his back to

Boys: South Seven Conference the basket. Elijah started for us at times last year as a freshman.”

Strus is returning to the team after spending last year in Colorado, while Rech has come to Carbondale from Brazil.

Coach: Jim Miller Seniors: Sam Strus, 6-6, f/c.

Juniors: Felipe Rech, 7-0, c; Jarron Warren, 60, f/c; Jackson Bates, 6-0, g; Dion Wooley, 5-10, g; Zach O’Hagan, 5-10, g.

Sophomores: Elijah Bidinger, 5-11, g/f; Michel Andre, 5-10, g/f; Shamarc Bursey, 5-10, g/f; Devontavius Payne, 5-10, g.

Freshmen: Allen Billinger, 5-10, g; Jordan Kelly, 6-5, f/c.

Marion Last year, Marion had a rough time, finishing last in the South Seven (2-8) with the worst record (10-18) in the league.

“We lost 14 of our 18 games last year by two possessions or less, so we were close in a lot of ballgames,”

said coach Aaron Mattox.

“This year, our guard play has to improve to reverse that.”

Mattox will have to replace Aaron Adeoye and eight other players, but he has two key starters back in power forward Jared Ellis and shooting guard Juwan Tucker.

“Aaron leaves a big hole for us, but we have a little more quickness and experience on the perimeter than we’ve had in the past,” Mattox said. “We will lean heavily on Big Jared to be a force inside offensively and defensively. Juwan played his best basketball down the stretch last year as a sophomore. They give us some things to build upon.”

One of the new players is former Carbondale guard, Juju Kizeart. Also back after

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missing most of last season with an injury is guard Brody DeMattei.

“Brody is a guy we’re counting on to give us good leadership both inside and out,” Mattox said.

Coach: Aaron Mattox Seniors: JARED ELLIS, 6-8, f; Juju Kizeart, 6-0, g; Brody DeMattei, 6-1, g; Jay Riley, 5-11, g.

Juniors: JUWAN TUCKER, 6-0, g; Cole Winn, 64, c; Gabe Murphy, 6-2, f; Logan Will, 6-0, g; Malik Stuckey, 5-10, g.

Sophomores: Sean Nuernberger, 6-1, g; Colton Carter, 5-10, g; Davontay Blye, 5-11, g; Zach Bingman, 6-2, g; Carsen Cash, 6-2, f.

Mount Vernon The Rams are coming off a 22-6 season, finishing second in the South Seven at 8-2. However, this will be a rebuilding year.

“We lost a lot from last year,” said coach Scott Gamber. “Six of our top seven players were seniors, so we are green on experience, but we have a big jun-

ior class this year that got a lot of experience over the summer.”

The lone players who have starting experience are shooting guard Ty’Ril Trimble and guard/forward Clay Payne.

“We bring back Ty’Ril, who started several games as a sophomore and several more as junior, and Clay, who got to start some games at the first of the season last year,” Gamber said.

“Clay is going to be asked a lot of because of our lack of size. He is going to have to play a little bit bigger position than he has in the past.”

Looking to earn starting jobs at guard are Jarron Liddell, Travis Mitchell and Trevor Flota.

Coach: Scott Gamber Seniors: TY’RIL TRIMBLE, 5-9, g; Clay Payne, 63, g; Savon Cummings, 6-5, f/c; Leontae Badger, 62, f.

Juniors: Travis Mitchell, 6-0, g; Colton Meader, 6-2, f; Jarron Liddell, 5-9, g; Michael Feezer, 6-3, f; Qwyman Cantley, 6-2, c; Clayton Reeves, 5-11, g/f; Trevor Flota, 6-0, g; Louis Grote, 5-10, g.

Centralia Last season, Centralia (30-5) won the South Seven (9-1) for the third time in four years, won its second straight regional title and third in the last four years, its first sectional title since 2002 and finished second at the state tournament for the fourth time.

Coach Lee Bennett achieved all of that having to replace three starters.

This year, Bennett has to replace three starters, as well as his top three players off the bench, including MVP R. J. Kwiatkowski.

Coach: Lee Bennett Seniors: BRYAN BETTS, 5-10, g; DANIEL WESTBROOK, 5-10, g; Ivan McConnaughay, 6-0, g; Luka Stefanovic, 6-6, f; David Jackson, 6-2, f.

Juniors: Jae’lin Webster, 5-10, g; Charlie Evischi, 5-11, g; Drew Shores, 5-10, f.

Sophomores: Jake Wood, 6-1, f; Chase Alcorn, 6-1, g.

SEE SOUTH SEVEN / PAGE 15

Marion Even though Marion finished tied for last in the South Seven (2-8), the Wildcats finished over .500 (14-13).

Coach Jeff Tarlton is optimistic because he has a young and talented team this year.

The Wildcats will have a new look with 1,500-point scorer Lindsay Lenon and two other starters graduating and another starter not returning. The only returning starter is point guard Ieasha Clark.

“We’re going to be pretty inexperienced, so I think we’ll be as good as Ieasha (Clark) allows us to be,” Tarlton said. “The last couple years, Lindsay scored a lot for us, but this year is going to be a little more balanced with a handful of girls averaging five to 10 points making it harder to defense us.”

Also returning are junior guards Cortney and Dailey Williams and sophomores guard Emily Dickman and forward/center Montana Schafer.

“Cortney and Dailey can shoot the ball and have a chance to start, but regardless they are going to play a ton of minutes,” Tarlton said. “Emily can play point and both her and Ieasha can play defense. Montana can shoot the ball for a big kid.”

Coach: Jeff Tarlton Seniors: IEASHA CLARK, 5-4, g; Taylor Simmerman, 5-8, g; Savannah Howard, 5-11, f; Carly

Girls: South Seven Conference Crabtree, 5-8, f; Taylor Booten, 5-6, f; Jordan Shotten, 5-7, g.

Juniors: Cortney Williams, 5-5, g; Dailey Williams, 5-5, g; Katie Comp, 5-7, f.

Sophomores: Montana Schafer, 6-1, f; Emily Dickman, 5-4, g; Jessica Rauch, 5-6, f.

Freshmen: MarQuisha Edwards, 5-7, f; Alyson Gwaltney, 5-9, g; Haley Rushing, 5-7, g.

Mount Vernon Last year, in coach Jeff Lonnon’s second season at the helm, the Lady Rams (8-19) saw improvement, but Mount Vernon couldn’t climb out of the cellar of the South Seven, finishing tied for last at 2-8.

This year, Lonnon returns all five starters, including his only two seniors, AllSouth point guard Cheyene Piper and honorable mention all-conference power forward Jessica Green.

“I think we’re going to be pretty competitive,” Lonnon said. “My first year, we won five. Last year, we won eight. And this year, we have the same kids back, so I think they’re ready to step up this year.”

One silver lining was the playing experience gained by juniors Hailey Lockhart, Kelby Kujawa and Aaliyah Palmer.

“Piper and Green have started since they were sophomores and we have Lockhart, Kujawa and Palmer who all started as sophomores last year, so we have a lot of experience back,” Lonnon said.

Lonnon’s bench is nine deep, but it’s short on experience with the exception of junior center Natalie Williamson and sophomore forwards Claire Ryan and Courtney Scarbrough.

Coach: Jeff Lonnon Seniors: CHEYENE PIPER, 5-8, g; JESSICA GREEN, 5-5, f.

Juniors: HAILEY LOCKHART, 5-9, c; KELBY KUJAWA, 5-9, f; AALIYAH PALMER, 5-7, f; Natalie Williamson, 5-11, c.

Sophomores: Claire Ryan, 5-7, f; Courtney Scarbrough, 5-7, f; Ieisha Sanders, 5-7, c; Michaela Lamczyk, 5-7, f; Colleen Skobel, 5-5, g; Vickie Skobel, 5-6, f; Charonda Barnes, 5-9, c.

Freshmen: Hannah Owens, 5-11, c.

Carbondale

The Terriers (15-12, 3-7 South Seven) finished fourth in the conference last year and return three starters, including AllSouth shooting guard Elaina Robinson and point guard Sarah Goodale.

“This year we’re going to be running in seven and eight players in a lot, so it won’t matter who the starting five are,” said coach Coach: Marialice Jenkins Marialice Jenkins.

Seniors: ELAINA ROBINSON, 5-8, g; Lacey “Offensively we’re going to Armit, 5-8, f/c; Loren Scott, 5-6, g. have to get after it and then Juniors: SARAH GOODALE, 5-8, g/f; Zamorrow cause some trouble on Glispie, 5-7, g; Kristy Scally, 5-6, f; TiAnn Kee, 5-7, f.

Sophomores: McKENA MILLER, 5-10, g/f; defense to get transition Bryonne Williams, 5-8, f; Iesha Croft, 5-5, g.

Freshmen: Samantha Goodale, 5-6, g; Paige baskets.”

5-7, g/f; Elisha Richardson, 5-8, g/f; Kaili Also back is honorable Bird, Bacon, 5-10, f/c. mention All-State guard/forward McKena Centralia Miller who started as a Last year, the Annies freshman. Senior Lacey Armit is the leading candi- (19-12) finished in second date at center with senior place in the South Seven Loren Scott and junior (8-2) and advanced to the

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Zamorrow Glispie in a battle for the open guard spot.

“During the off-season Loren and Sarah took upon themselves to work above and beyond and I think they’re going to see that pay off tremendously,” Jenkins said. “Robinson and Loren could be pretty dangerous out on the wings when you got kids like Goodale, Glispie and Miller who can get to the basket. Glispie’s speed is deceptive because she has some jets.”

First off the bench is Kristy Scally and Bryonne Williams.

“We’re longer athletically and have a pretty good arsenal of shooters, but our biggest concern is going to be muscling it up in the paint and getting rebounds,” Jenkins said.

“We can’t expect Armit to get all the rebounds, so we’re going to have to rebound by committee.”

regional finals before losing to Salem. This year, coach Roger Stieg has the task of replacing his starting backcourt including 1,000point scorer Hannah Shores.

“The question marks we’re going to have is our guard play and how well we can rebound, but our juniors are pretty athletic who can get up and down the floor,” Stieg said. “We’re not a big group with my two biggest girls being junior Shantena McClain and Abby Holtkamp.”

Coach: Roger Stieg Seniors: KHADIJA BROWN-HAYWOOD, 5-8, g/f; ASHTON DOZA, 5-7, f; Darryl Lusch, 5-8, f/c; Kaitlin Murphy, 5-3, g.

Juniors: Danielle Meadows, 5-8, f; Shantena McClain, 5-11, f/c; Maddie Wernsman, 5-3, g; Jordyn Looman, 5-5, g/f; Aarion Owens, 5-3, g.

Sophomores: Abby Holtkamp, 5-10, c; Raigen Schwartz, 5-2, g; Cassie Kwiatkowski, 5-4, g; Mariah Peters, 5-5, g/f; Lauren Smith, 5-8, f; Erika Starr, 57, f; Rachel Cavaletto, 5-7,f.

Belleville Althoff The Belleville Althoff Crusaders (16-11, 9-1 South Seven) have dominated the South Seven under coaches Lori and R.J. Crunk winning the title seven years in a row, but the Crunks retired, turning the reins over to Todd Hill.

Hill was assistant coach under the Crunks two years ago and was the head coach at Riverview Gardens High School last year.

Coach: Todd Hill Seniors: ALECE SHUMPERT, 5-9, g; Heather

Dundon, 5-6, g.

Juniors: JAZMINE STUBBLEFIELD, 5-6, g; KYMBER HILL, 6-3, f/c; Mary Cardenas, 5-9, g; Whitney Harris, 6-1, f.

Sophomores: Rachel Kaltwasser, 5-7, g; Katie Nagel, 5-5, g; Mackenzie Weilbacher, 5-7, f.

Freshmen: Madison Weilbacher, 5-9, g; Brianna Nowak, 6-0, f.

Cahokia The Lady Comanches finished third (6-4) in the South Seven and 18-11 overall.

Fred Dancy returns two senior starters in point guard Shyniece Manuel and shooting guard Diamond Suggs, and although he lost his entire front court.

Dancy has experienced reserves ready to replace them.

“We were putting in a new offense and defense, so the girls were working hard this summer,” Dancy said.

“They take direction very well and this is actually one of the hardest working groups I’ve had.”

Junior Tykia Cooper replaces first team all-conference forward Fredrika Walker and senior Takesha Gibson takes over for center Whitney Henderson while junior Dearielle Ivy is the leading candidate to replace Carmella Collier at wing guard.

Coach: Fred Dancy Seniors: DIAMOND SUGGS, 5-11, g; SHYNIECE MANUEL, 5-1, g; Michaela Dew, 5-8, g/f; Takesha Gibson, 6-0, c; Mytanesha Moffett, 5-8, f; Demetrious Brown, 5-0, g.

Juniors: Deairelle Ivy, 5-10, g/f; Tekia Cooper, 511, f.

Sophomores: LaShandra Brewer, 6-2, f; Kiera Minor, 5-5, g.

Freshmen: Java Brock, 5-3, g.

— Geary Deniston

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The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 18, 2011 Page 3

Anna-Jonesboro Waiting for football season to come to an end has become a habit for AnnaJonesboro basketball coach Mike Chamness.

The Wildcats were without eight players through the first week of practice because of the football team’s success. But when they finally return, they will add to a team considerably taller and faster than last season’s squad that finished 15-15.

“It’s been interesting, but we’ve got a lot of young kids and it’s been about teaching them fundamentals and defensive rotations,” Chamness said. “The guys who were playing football know what’s going on.”

Brady Wright (6-4 forward), Travis Smith (6-1 guard) and Dalton Baker (6-2 guard) are the three returning starters for Anna-Jonesboro, which has seven seniors, one junior and sophomores Jay Kemp (6-3 forward) and Tyler Vaughn (5-11 guard) in the varsity rotation. The junior, 6-foot-8 center Andrew Nixon, is a transfer from Goreville.

Coach: Mike Chamness Seniors: TRAVIS SMITH, 6-1, g; BRADY WRIGHT, 6-4, f; DALTON BAKER, 6-2, g; Cody Garver, 5-9, g; Caleb Mixen, 5-8, g; Jarid Veronesi, 6-0, g; Jaden Ayers, 6-1, g.

Juniors: Evan Hughey, 6-3, c; Andrew Nixon, 68, c; Josh Belford, 5-9, g.

Sophomores: Jay Kemp, 6-3, f; Ben McFarland, 6-4, c; Trey Pender, 5-7, g; Tyler Vaughn, 5-11, g; Colton James, 5-11, g.

Freshmen: Caleb Franklin-Searby, 5-11, f; Marcus Taylor, 5-9, g; Noah Prater, 5-9, g; Derek Harvell, 6-2, f; Steve Wells, 6-1, c; Dallas Marks, 6-2,

Boys: SIRR Mississippi Division

Coach: Bob Waggoner Seniors: C.J. OPP, 6-3, c; BRYANT SHUTE, 5-9, g; HUNTER QUEEN, 5-10, g; PAYTON NIPPE, 6-3, f; Keegan Kellerman, 6-2, c; Justin Bumman, 6-0, f; Devan Downard, 6-5, f.

Juniors: Chris Priebe, 6-4, f; Dylan Hardin, 6-0, g.

and hopefully those years of and defensive prowess “We’re not going to be as JV have paid off.” appears to be what the quick or as athletic as we Indians are striving for in were a year ago,” Weathers Coach: Scott Burzynski said. “We’re going to have Sparta 2011-12.

Seniors: CURTIS PITT, 6-2, c; Zach Bollman, 5Carterville 10, g; Dalton Sameul, 6-2, c. to play awfully, awfully Sparta coach Rich Coach: Gabe Sveda Juniors: DALTON BROWN, 5-9, g; Lucas Hunter, Carterville will have two hard to compensate for Williams is banking on two Seniors: Brandon Williams, 6-5, c; John Galik, 6-0, g; Travis Kidd, 6-2, f; Kyle Adams, 5-10, f; Tyler returning starters and a lot Horn, 6-3, c; Matt Hansen, 5-10, g; David Eaton, 6- 6-2, g; Cayle Diggins, 6-2, g; Jon Boss, 6-3, f; Dillon size.” returning starters and a litBeltz, 6-1, f; Sam Gossett, 6-3, f. of older players in 2011-12, 0, g. tle bit of better luck in 2011Juniors: Deeja Cole, 5-10, g; Brenden Fred, 6-2, Michael Aschemann, 5-10, g; Coach: Brad Weathers but the Lions do not have a MattSophomores: Bigelow, 6-4, c; Cam Lenzini, 5-10, f; Britton g/f; Nate Boss, 5-11, g; Daulton Beltz, 6-2, c; Daulton Seniors: Justin Grathwohl, 6-0, f; Jessie 12.

Donoghue, 6-1, f; Austin Mapps, 6-0, g; John Erwin, Krawiecki, 5-10, g; Trey Meyer, 5-10, g. lot of varsity experience.

Herrin, 6-1, g.

Second team all-confer5-10, g.

Freshman: Blake Watson, 5-8, g.

Juniors: Scott Brown, 6-1, g; Chance Reuter, 5Senior Curtis Pitt (6-2 Sophomore: Stencer Cook, 5-11, f.

11, g; Devin Holle, 6-5, f/c. ence forward/center Aaron center) and junior Dalton Sophomores: Keegan Anderson, 5-10, g; Bryce Rushing and guard Austin Styninger, 6-0, f; Hunter Beetley, 6-1, f.

Brown (5-9 guard) will lead Du Quoin Peck will be asked to proNashville Freshman: Daniel Thorson, 6-0, g. a group of 10 upperclassIt’s a fresh start for vide leadership to a team Like several teams in the men that have paid their Du Quoin this season, after that lost several close games Pinckneyville dues on the junior varsity the Indians graduated four conference, Nashville is in finishing 11-19 and 3-7 in rebuilding after the loss of a team the last two seasons. starters and five seniors There are strong rumors the conference a year ago.

Size is a little bit of a con- from a team that went 23-7 large senior class. coming out of Duster “We’ve got some athletic The Hornets lost nine Thomas Gymnasium that cern, with 6-4 sophomore in 2010-11. kids and we’re really young center Matt Bigelow as the Senior forward Sam players to graduation after a this season’s Pinckneyville at the guard position,” Lions’ tallest player.

Gossett is expected to miss 25-5 season and will look to Panthers could be the team Williams said. “We are long “We’re not going to be the the entire season after sur- Scott Brown for leadership to beat in the conference. and do have some quickbiggest team, but we’re gery to repair torn knee lig- in 2011-12. Brown, a 6-1 Pinckneyville boasts sev- ness.” pretty athletic,” said aments from an injury suf- junior guard, appeared in 28 en seniors and four returnAt 6-7, Rushing is by far Carterville coach Scott fered during football sea- games last season, averag- ing starters in Bryant Shute, the team’s tallest player, Burzynski. “Hopefully we son. That leaves seniors Jon ing 13.8 points per game off Hunter Queen, Payton Nip- with 6-3 forward Sean can get up and down the Boss and John Galik, both of the bench for Nashville. pe and C.J. Opp. Lukes and 6-2 forward “Obviously, we’ve got a floor and create some easy whom saw limited varsity Six of th-ose seven have Tyler Morrison providing buckets for the offense.” time off the bench last sea- lot of question marks,” said varsity exp-erience, but the size inside. The Bulldogs The Lions will miss the son, as the Indians’ most Nashville coach Brad Panthers lack the post play- haven’t won a regional title Weathers. contributions of graduated experienced players. er they have had in years since 1991 and haven’t won “We’re looking at a lot of past. standouts Ryan Bonifield “We lost five seniors and a conference title since the combinations and Drew Bonner, who are with Sam being out, that’s different “One of the big things is 1982-83 season. both suiting up for John A. tough,” said Du Quoin with nine or 10 kids fighting having two returning “We lost several close Logan College in 2011-12, coach Gabe Sveda. “We’ve for playing time.” guards,” said Pinckneyville ballgames last year and if At 6-5, junior Devin Holle coach Bob Waggoner. “We we had won those, we but the group that remains got to step up and face appears hungry to prove adversity and get better is the team’s lone player should be able to pressure would be .500,” Williams taller than 6-1 and the the ball more and do more said. themselves. each day.”

“We’re in a unique situaDu Quoin has another team’s athleticism looks to things in transition than we Coach: Rich Williams tion in that we have a lot of large senior class anchored have taken a small step back have in the last couple of Seniors: AUSTIN PECK, 6-1, g; Tyler Morrison, 6-2, f; Dalton Robert, 5-10, g; Orlando Oliver, 6-1, f. older guys that haven’t by 6-5 center Brandon from the level it was in years.

Juniors: AARON RUSHING, 6-7, f/c; Sharvel played a lot of varsity min- Williams. Junior Brenden 2010-11. Still, Nashville is a “I expect those four to Austin, 5-9, g; Sean Lukes, 6-3, f.

Sophomore: Vonte Garrett, 5-10, g. utes,” Burzynski said. Fred, the heir to Gossett on program with a lot of tradi- really add a level of security Freshman: Dewayne Dodson, 5-8, g.

“They’ve been hungry in the football field, is expect- tion and could adapt quick- as far as being an extension — Pete Spitler getting to the varsity level ed to play a lot of minutes ly to its new challenges. of the coach on the floor.” c; Dustin Ryan, 6-0, f; Noah Fuller, 5-10, g; Curtis Plott, 5-11, g; Jared Rendleman, 6-2, c; Bayle Robertson, 5-10, f; Zane Dewitt, 6-1, g.

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618.357.8627 Page 4 Friday, November 18, 2011 The Southern Illinoisan

Anna-Jonesboro Jessie Stone is going to have to set the tone for Anna-Jonesboro in 2011-12.

Stone, a 6-foot senior center, is entering her fourth year as a starter for the Lady Wildcats, one of only two players with starter’s experience back from last season’s 13-14 squad. The other returner, 5-9 forward Valerie Pender, is the other senior on AnnaJonesboro’s roster.

“Right now, I’ve been very impressed with their work ethic,” said secondyear Anna-Jonesboro coach Bryan Clark. “We’re a little inexperienced on our bench, but I’m very, very pleased with what I’ve seen.”

Sophomore guard/forward Erica Friebel and junior guard/forward Katie Grant figure to be heavily in the mix for playing time and the team has a combined 17 players out for basketball in the four classes.

“We’ve got three good guards out of the freshmen class that may see some varsity time,” Clark said.

“We’re a little young, but that’s just been the case at Anna the last couple of years.”

Coach: Bryan Clark Seniors: JESSIE STONE, 6-0, c; VALERIE PENDER, 5-9, f.

Juniors: Kim Mixen, 5-4, g; Brooke Chamness, 5-4, g; Katie Grant, 5-7, g/f.

Sophomores: Erica Friebel, 5-8, g/f; Krista Pender, 5-10, f; Cara Ferris, 6-1, c; Kylie Foster, 5-6, f.

Freshmen: Haleigh Lawrence, 5-7, g; Natty Hepburn, 5-4, g; Sam Clary, 5-4, g; Sammy Brimm,

have just two seniors in guard Lindsey Winter and center Emma Opp.

Girls: SIRR Mississippi Division 5-4, g; Ally Reynolds, 5-6, f; Lauren George, 5-9, f; Ashley Donoho, 5-4, g; Balyie Denny, 5-2, g.

Carterville The Lady Lions find themselves in a unique situation with no full-time returning starters, but four players who started at one time or another last season.

Nina Skinner (5-6 guard), Sidney Brothers (5-7 forward), Lauren Sherry (5-7 guard) and Andrea Kesler (5-7 guard) highlight a group of 12 returning varsity players. With 24 players available program-wide, depth is a strong point for Carterville.

“It is a challenge in itself to keep all 24 busy,” said Carterville coach Todd Rogers. “I’m very pleased with the kids that have come out and it will be interesting to make the decisions on who can help us at the varsity level.”

With the graduation of Mollie Thomas, Carterville’s offense will likely come by committee rather than from specific players.

“I think it’s going to come from a lot of different places,” Rogers said. “I’ll be surprised if it’s one person that stands out above the others.”

Coach: Todd Rogers Seniors: SIDNEY BROTHERS, 5-7, f; LAUREN SHERRY, 5-7, g; ANDREA KESLER, 5-7, g.

Juniors: NINA SKINNER, 5-6, g; Jennifer Skinner, 5-10, f; Cierra Charles, 5-5, g; Sydney

Michael, 5-5, g; Brigitte Gentry, 5-10, f; Courtney Lam, 5-7, f; Katherine Prusator, 5-10, f.

Sophomores: Kelli Hicks, 5-7, g; Savana Jones, 5-8, g; Jordan Gaston, 5-10, f.

Du Quoin Du Quoin coach Shawn File is looking to finally reap the rewards of having a veteran team in 2011-12.

The Lady Indians have two returning starters in senior Jessica Hirsch (5-6 guard) and junior Rebekah Maddox (6-1 forward), but welcome the return of junior Kelsey Robinson (5-7 forward) and the addition of Alexis Kohrs (5-9 guard/ forward) from Sparta.

“Alexis started at the varsity level last year and brings a lot of competitiveness to our practices,” File said. “Kelsey will be a physical presence for us on the boards after not playing for the last couple of years.”

Hirsch is nearing the 1,000-point mark in her career while Maddox presents a challenge to opposing defenses with her height.

The pair will relied upon heavily to provide leadership.

“Their effort is going to be key to our success,” File said. “I’ve got a nice insideoutside game with those two.”

While the team finished 12-17 last season, several other players gained experience. Juniors Cassidy Rice

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more than her 4.8 points per game.

“The things that we have to do to win games here, like playing every possession, takes time for the kids to get used to,” Harre said.

Coach: Shawn File Seniors: JESSICA HIRSCH, 5-6, g; Shelby Presley, 5-9, f.

Juniors: REBEKAH MADDOX, 6-1, f; Taylor King, 5-6, g/f; Alexis Kohrs, 5-9, g/f; Cassidy Rice, 5-7, g/f; Kelsey Robinson, 5-7.

Sophomores: Bailie Caldwell, 5-6, g/f; Morgan Dennis, 5-8, f; Abby Myers, 5-4, g; Leah Spiller, 5-4, f; Ashanti Warren, 5-8, f.

Freshmen: Amanda Atteberry, 5-6, g; Carissa Graham, 5-4, g; Jacqueline Harsy, 5-6, f; Shelby Simmons, 5-4, f; Tiana Spann, 5-1, g.

Coach: Wayne Harre Seniors: Mollie Borowiak, 5-6, f; Jaysie Bower, 5-4, g; Rosalie Cloo, 5-8, f; Jolie Wall, 5-2, g.

Juniors: ERICA BROWN, 5-11, f; Nicole Deering, 5-1, g; Shaye Harre, 5-9, c; Callie Schwartxkopf, 5-3, f.

Sophomores: Katy Kosydor, 5-2, g; Shawn Rennegarbe, 5-9, f; Hannah Yung, 5-5, f.

Freshman: Jordi Harre, 5-5, g.

Nashville

Pinckneyville

After an incredible threeyear run that included two third-place trophies and one fourth place at the IHSA state tournament, Nashville coach Wayne Harre is rebuilding around one returning starter and two others with varsity experience.

“We’re kinda starting over again, which we’ve done before,” said Harre, who is 301-58 all-time at Nashville. “It will take us some time to get used to varsity competition even though Erica (Brown) has played some big games, along with (Shaye) Harre and (Shawn) Rennegarbe.”

After the graduation of six seniors, Nashville will look to Brown to lead the way. The 5-11 forward was the Hornettes’ top defender in 2010-11 and the junior will be relied upon to chip in

Pinckneyville coach Alan Engelhardt has a challenge in front of him this season after losing eight seniors to graduation after a 20-9 season.

The Lady Panthers have one returning starter in 5-2 junior Heather McDaniel and 11 varsity players.

McDaniel is expected to take over the starting point guard role from the departed Maddy Keith.

“We’re going to have to figure out how to score,” Engelhardt said. “We averaged 54 points per game last season and return 16 of that. Our first three days of practice we couldn’t hang on to the ball.”

Pinckneyville does have some size with 5-11 center Alexis Anderson, 5-10 forward Haley Simpson and 510 guard Katelyn Mayer.

Overall, the Lady Panthers

Go Indians!

Coach: Alan Engelhardt Seniors: Lindsey Winter, 5-9, g; Emma Opp, 5-8, c.

Juniors: HEATHER MCDANIEL, 5-2, g; Dani Schoenbacher, 5-6, g; Britney Thomas, 5-6, f; Haley Simpson, 5-10, f; Alexis Anderson, 5-11, c.

Sophomores: Alyssa Hirsch, 5-7, g; Katelyn Mayer, 5-10, g; Haley Szczepanski, 5-8, f.

Freshman: Keelyn Stein, 5-7, f.

Sparta It’s no secret that Sparta will be the shortest team in the conference with only one person taller than 5-foot-5.

The Lady Bulldogs have two returning starters in Jade Vaughn (5-4 guard) and Jenalee Stine (5-5 guard/forward), but 5-9 freshman Hailey Opolka will have to become a rebounding machine. To compensate, coach April York is hoping her team can outrun its opponents in generating scoring opportunities.

“We’re focusing on quickness,” York said. “Just trying to push the ball up the court and get easy layups.”

Vaughn and Stine are the only seniors in a varsity rotation that also includes five sophomores and one junior.

Coach: April York Seniors: JENALEE STINE, 5-5, g/f; JADE VAUGHN, 5-4, g.

Junior: Victoria Ward, 5-4, g.

Sophomores: Las’Hae Dunn, 5-4, g; Kendra Kessler, 5-3, g; Katie Hill, 5-5, f; Katelyn Blount, 5-4, f.

Freshman: Hailey Opolka, 5-9, g/f.

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(5-7 guard/forward) and Taylor King (5-6 guard/forward) also played a lot of varsity minutes while starting a handful of games.

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The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 18, 2011 Page 5

Benton The Rangers return nearly everyone from last year’s regional championship team and look to contend for a conference crown this season.

The team has four positions with returning starters in the mix, and only Caleb Suver has to be replaced.

Cody Smith, in his fourth year as the starting point guard, will lead the way with Trey Garrett, Tyler Leffler and Jared Johnston back at the other guard spots.

“Any time you bring a point guard back for his fourth year that is a good place to start,” said Benton coach Ron Winemiller.

“Cody has continued to grow and take leadership of the team. He is a student of the game and understands the nuance of being a great point guard.”

Benton relied on Suver to

Boys: SIRR Ohio Division score quite a bit during the 2010-11 campaign, but Winemiller expects a balanced attack this season.

Leffler and Garrett are two of the best athletes the school has and are versatile on the basketball court.

Mason Childers will be relied upon to do damage in the paint.

Coach: Ron Winemiller.

Seniors: CODY SMITH, 5-9, g; TYLER LEFFLER, 6-3, g; MASON CHILDERS, 6-2, f; TREY GARRETT, 61, g; JARED JOHNSTON, 6-0, g; Dylan Hartley, 5-10, g; Thomas Simpson, 5-9, g; Landon LaBuwi, 6-3, f.

Juniors: Cole Forby, 6-2, f; Dalton Ward, 6-5, f; Cameron Rock, 5-10, g; Willie Powell, 5-8, g; Austin Myers, 5-10, g; Ethan Hughes, 6-2, f.

Sophomores: Nathaniel Higgins, 6-0, g; Matt Buntin, 6-1, f; Tyler Owens, 5-8, g.

Harrisburg This could be a great year for the Bulldogs, who are the definite favorite to represent the deep south at the super-sectional this season.

Harrisburg has a tremendous core of players back this season, and it all starts with 6-foot-2 guard/forward Capel Henshaw, who is one of the best players in Southern Illinois.

Henshaw’s very capable sidekick is Tyler Smithpeters, who can shoot the lights out and take the ball to the hole.

“I think both of them have gotten better and have spent a lot of time in the gym,” said Harrisburg coach Randy Smithpeters.

“Both are more mature, and their roles won’t change much. They will have to take over the senior leadership we lost from last year even though they are only juniors.”

Ryne Roper returns at guard as well, and he’s a deadly 3-point shooter, but

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look for Eli Taborn-Scott, a 6-foot-3 forward, to step out on the floor and knock down jump shots as well.

The team’s top four players aren’t even seniors, so the Bulldogs could do some serious damage.

Coach: Randy Smithpeters.

Seniors: Caleb Goldman, 6-1, f; Brandon Gibbs, 6-2, c; Kash Barnes, 5-9, g.

Juniors: CAPEL HENSHAW, 6-2, g/f; TYLER SMITHPETERS, 6-3, g; RYNE ROPER, 6-2, g.

Sophomores: Zach Smith, 5-10, g; Eli TabornScott, 6-3, f.

Freshmen: Bahari Amaya, 6-3, f.

Herrin Bobby Mannie had a breakout year as a junior, and he’ll lead the Tigers this season along with DeMarlo Harris.

That’s a darn good 1-2 punch for a Herrin team that will move to Class 3A this season.

“I expect great things out of Bobby Mannie,” said Herrin coach Irv Lukens.

“He has worked very hard, and he’s ready to go, and he’ll be a force for our team.

He is an outstanding player.”

Harris didn’t have as good of a junior season as expected, and Lukens predicts the 6-foot-4 post player will bounce back and wreak havoc in the paint.

“I thought DeMarlo didn’t have a normal season last year, and I think he’ll be hungry this year,” Lukens said. “He didn’t have as

much help last year and had to adjust to that. He needs to be more aggressive this season and help us out right away.”

Coach: Irv Lukens.

Seniors: DEMARLO HARRIS, 6-4, f; BOBBY MANNIE, 5-11, g; Alex Davis, 6-0, g; Nathan Lukens, 5-10, g; Fletcher Hoague, 6-3, c; Antuan Davis, 6-0, f.

Juniors: Justin Lukens, 6-0, g; Austin Butler, 61, f; Jerrel Pirtle, 6-1, g.

Massac County The Patriots will feature a bit of a different look from past years during the 201112 season.

This year’s group isn’t the explosive group from the past, but the squad has a real good post presence to go along with its best player, Malcolm Amos at guard.

“I think Amos can really score and he rebounds great, but I think we have a lot of balance,” said Massac County coach Joe Hosman.

“We have a very good shooting team which we haven’t had in many years.

We also have a post up game we haven’t used in a few years.”

Ethan Schulte, a 6-foot6 center, and Griffin Bazor, a 6-5 forward, are the best inside duo in the Ohio Division.

Hosman is expecting quite a bit of rebounding and stick backs from those two.

Coach: Joe Hosman.

Seniors: MALCOLM AMOS, 6-1, g; GRIFFIN

BAZOR, 6-5, f; Travis Beck, 6-3, g; Shequille Moore, 5-10, g.

Juniors: ETHAN SCHULTE, 6-6, c; Ryan English, 6-1, g/f; Ross Devers, 6-3, f; Dalton Korte, 6-2, g/f; Caleb Nichols, 6-2, f.

Sophomores: Dalton Mitchell, 6-0, g; Daniel Fort, 5-9, g; Austin Kendall, 6-4, c; Alex King, 6-2, g; Kevin Welch, 5-9, g; Kyle Reinwald, 5-11, f.

Murphysboro The Red Devils enjoyed a fantastic run last year, which included a 35-game winning streak and the state runner-up trophy in Class 2A. Five of the six key players are gone, but Pierre House returns and needs to carry the load for the squad.

“It’s a pretty huge question mark as to what type of team we’ll be,” said Murphysboro coach Daryl Murphy. But I know that Pierre House is going to be great for us. He has gotten a lot better. It will depend on how hard the other kids are willing to work to win those close games.”

Murphysboro will be able to shoot the ball well from outside, and Murphy likes the way this group executes the offense. But someone is going to have to step up and help out House with the scoring load.

“This group had one of our better junior varsity records in a long time,” Murphy said.

Coach: Daryl Murphy.

Seniors: PIERRE HOUSE, 6-1, g/f; Mitchell Rose, 6-1, f; Zane Heller, 5-10, g; Drew Novara, 6-0, g; Kyle Miller, 6-1, g; Mitch Maloney, 5-10, g; Roger Gonzales, 6-2, f; Darion Jarrett, 6-0 g.

Juniors: Kevin Gude, 6-1, f; Kane Wilson, 6-1, f.

Sophomores: Stephen Eldridge, 6-1, f; Brant Hill, 6-1, g.

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Page 6 Friday, November 18, 2011 The Southern Illinoisan

Good Luck Red Devils!

Benton The Rangerettes are expected to be one of the better teams in the SIRR Ohio Division, and they return a lot of experience.

Morgan Corn is one of the area’s best post players, and Evelyn Mendez can really score from the guard spot.

The squad will also have a deep bench.

“We’ve got experience, talent and hopefully cohesiveness as a unit,” said Benton coach Seth Tate. “If you put those three things together you are bound to have success.”

Sara Miller returns for her fourth season of varsity basketball at guard. Makala Carney gives the team a solid post presence as well.

But this year will likely come down to how far Corn and Mendez can carry team.

Both players have started since they were freshmen.

“I think they have both become household names in Southern Illinois,” Tate said. “Morgan understands that she’ll see double teams and people trying to be physical with her. She would rather get 10 assists than 20 points. It’s safe to say as those two go that’s how we’ll go this year.”

Coach: Seth Tate.

Seniors: SARA MILLER, 5-6, g; Kiley Wagner, 56, g; Jennifer Adams, 5-6, g; Sierra Catavu, 5-10, f.

Juniors: MORGAN CORN, 5-11, f; EVELYN MENDEZ, 5-7, g; MAKALA CARNEY, 6-1, c; Brittany Pedigo, 5-6, g; Rowdee Sanders, 5-10, f.

Sophomores: SAMI MINOR, 5-7, g; Ashtyn Ward, 5-10, f; Kristin Odum, 5-8, f; Kaitlyn Biddle, 5-9, f.

Freshmen: Cali Carney, 5-9, f; Katie Sandusky, 5-9, g.

Girls: SIRR Ohio Division Harrisburg

Herrin

Jake Stewart enters his first season as the varsity head coach after leading teams at the junior high level.

This will be a rebuilding process once again because the team has no seniors and just one junior, Shelby Boer.

“We have a real young team and a small team, but we’ll be kind of quick too,” Stewart said. “Being so young could hurt us, especially early in the season. It will be tough right now but might pay off in the future.”

Ashley Ferrell, a 5-2 sophomore guard, is the team’s only returning starter, and Stewart will be counting on her for quite a bit of production.

“I’m expecting Ashley to handle the ball all the time and expecting her to score a lot,” Stewart said. “She will have to be the leader of our team and that’s a lot to put on a sophomore.”

Boer, a 5-9 forward, is expected to carry the load in the paint.

“She will always have to guard the other team’s biggest player,” Stewart said.

The Tigers return of the best inside-outside duos in the area this season. Abby Horn, 6-foot forward, and Tori Johnson, a 5-7 guard, will lead the team.

Those two players will help Herrin stay competitive with everybody.

“Abby knows she has to step up and play more aggressively this year,” said Herrin coach Bill Green. “I think she will meet the challenge. We might even play her on the wing some this year.”

Johnson really came on strong toward the end of the last season and carried the team at times. Whenever she learns to handle the ball better under pressure she will become a force for the Tigers.

“She is a gamer and probably hates losing more than anyone,” Green said of Johnson. “I expect a lot of big things out of her. She now has to learn how to take her game to the next level.

She needs to look for the open player on the block, and when she starts seeing the floor better it will make us a lot better.”

Coach: Jake Stewart.

Juniors: Shelby Boer, 5-9, f.

Sophomores: ASHLEY FERRELL, 5-2, g; Lindsey Murray, 5-1, g; Malayna Douglas, 5-3, g; Brittany Reynolds, 5-3, g; Hannah Jones, 5-9, f; Hayley Thompson, 5-8, f; Hannah Walker, 5-9, f; Whitney Youngner, 5-5, g.

Coach: Bill Green.

S e n i o r s : Olivia Caldwell, 6-0, f; Michaela Lunsford, 5-8, f; Tessa Forquer, 6-0, f.

Juniors: ABBY HORN, 6-0, f; Alexis Yates, 5-6, f; Jesika Alongi, 5-4, g.

Sophomores: TORI JOHNSON, 5-7, g; Whitney Woodis, 5-10, f; Gabby Woodis, 5-8, f; Tina Black, 5-

7, g; Micaela Ceruti, 5-11, f.

Freshmen: Haley Hunter, 5-10, f.

Massac County The Lady Patriots are primed to have a big season, and the team is loaded with depth.

Kristina Henley, a 5-10 forward, returns as one of the best scorers in the area and has started since she was a freshman.

“I expect her to have a big year, and she has more help than she’s ever had,” said Massac County coach Keith Shelton. “If people want to take her out of the game then we have other guards who can take over.”

Becca Reames and Chesley Burnham return at the guard spots, and both players were all-conference selections last season along with Henley.

“I think we have two kids at every position that can contribute,” Shelton said.

“We are also very quick, and I’ll take quickness over just about anything. I told the kids I was going to shut up and let them play for the most part.”

Massac County also has a couple of freshmen that could make an impact on the team. Emily Hoard, a 59 point guard, is the quickest player on the team, according to Shelton. Jessie Douglas, a 5-10 forward, will also see action.

Coach: Keith Shelton.

Seniors: KRISTINA HENLEY, 5-10, f; KARSEN SMITH, 5-11, f; BECCA REAMES, 5-9, g; CHESLEY BURNHAM, 5-8, g.

Juniors: LAUREN BUNTING, 5-11, c; KAYLEE CHILDERS, 5-6, g; Taylor Klankey, 5-7, g.

Sophomores: Summer Clapp, 5-6, g; Natalie Bailey, 5-6, g.

Freshmen: Emily Hoard, 5-9, g; Jessie Douglas, 5-10, f.

Murphysboro The Lady Red Devils feature five players that started at one time or another last season and should be much improved for the 2011-12 campaign.

Rosie Hines, Chelsi Gillespie, Jasmine Gaines and Christina Smith will lead the team in the backcourt.

“Our outside shooters are pretty good,” said Murphysboro coach Staci Hickam. “We will be much more of an up tempo team that runs the floor than we have in the past couple of years.”

Katy Flanigan and Tori Conover are also expected to be key contributors.

“Jasmine Gaines will be our floor general and a slasher,” Hickam said.

“Smith and Conover can play both inside and outside for us. We feel like we have a lot of balance.”

The Lady Red Devils have 13 varsity players, and Hickam believes they are all interchangeable for the most part.

Coach: Staci Hickam.

Seniors: ROSIE HINES, 5-5, g; JASMINE GAINES, 5-3, g; CHELSI GILLESPIE, 5-5, g; KATY FLANiGAN, 57, g/f; CHRISTINA SMITH, 5-5, g.

Juniors: Tori Conover, 5-8, g/f; Jessica Stanton, 5-8, f; Bobbye Harris, 5-6, g; Brynnah Hunziker, 510, g/f.

Sophomores: Bria Ciganovich, 5-3, g; Kierra Nolan, 6-1, c; Aziah McBurney, 5-5, g.

West Frankfort The Lady Redbirds may be a little bit down this season, but Matt Hampleman’s teams are always very competitive.

However, when he found out his best player and leading scorer, Jasmine Chromchak, wasn’t going to play this year, he knew those would be big shoes to fill.

“We can’t replace the people we don’t have, so we’ll have to do it by committee,” Hampleman said.

“It’s going to be interesting and a mixed bag for us.”

The squad does have Kaitlyn Glodich and Nicole Frey returning to the starting lineup. Glodich is a solid guard, and Frey helps shore up the post presence for the team.

“Glodich probably won’t come off the floor at all,” Hampleman said. “I lost about 50 percent of my scoring and it will take a while for us to adjust to that.”

Coach: Matt Hampleman.

Seniors: KAITLYN GLODICH, 5-5, g; NICOLE FREY, 6-0, c; Kendell Presley, 5-5, g; Briyunna Kohel, 5-9, f; Yulia Cool, 5-5, g; Katie Smith, 5-9, f; Natasha Bender, 5-6, g; Rachel Edwards, 5-10, f.

Juniors: Rebecca Cunningham, 5-10, f; Jordan Crowder, 5-7, f.

Sophomores: Melanie Stoner, 5-9, f.

Freshmen: Kiarha Wilce, 5-2, g.

— Scott Mees

OHIO: Boys basketball preview for 2011-12 FROM PAGE 6

West Frankfort It will like be another rebuilding year for secondyear head coach Dan DeWerff. The Redbirds have fallen on hard times in recent years and just hope to be competitive in the Ohio Division this season.

That may be tough considering just how good the

league is, but DeWerff is going to give it his best shot after winning just one game last season.

“I think we’ve got some good work ethic guys coming back, and they know the expectations I have of them,” DeWerff said. “We felt each other out last year. Besides Nic Korolenko, we don’t really have anyone that contributed much offensively last year.”

Korolenko, a 6-foot-2 shooting guard, will be asked to carry a bigger load this season.

“He is a good athlete who can finish around the basket,” DeWerff said.

Coach: Dan DeWerff.

Seniors: Koty Rains, 6-2, f; Joe Burgess, 6-1, f; Nathan Dodd, 6-1, g; Nathan Culp, 6-2, f.

Juniors: NIC KOROLENKO, 6-2, g/f; Zach Ford, 6-0, g; Trenton Easley, 5-8, g; Gage Williams, 6-3, c; Evan Keller, 5-11, g.

Sophomores: Noah Drone, 5-10, g; Ethan Sisk, 6-0, f.

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— Scott Mees

The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 18, 2011 Page 7

Sesser-Valier Sesser-Valier returns much of its starting five from last year’s team that narrowly lost to Crab Orchard in the regional final.

The Red Devils return a lot of size in the middle.

Justin Kulich at 6-6 and Tim Witcher at 6-5 will be a presence in the paint for Sesser-Valier, continuing a trend in recent years of good post play at Sesser.

“We’ve always seemed to have a nice solid post player we’ve been able to build and work around,” Sesser-Valier coach Chip Basso said.

Hopes run high for the Red Devils.

“I think we’ll be one of the top teams in class A basketball in the south this year,” Basso said.

Coach: Chip Basso Seniors: KYLE STANLEY, 6-0, g; GREG JENKINS, 5-11, g; TIM WITCHER, 6-5, f; DREW DORRIS, 6-2, c; JOHN VERCELLINO, 6-0, f; Dylan Rock, 6-0, f Juniors: JUSTIN KULICH, 6-6, c; Reggie Eubanks, 6-0, g; Dalton Anderson, 5-10, g; Derek

Boys: Black Diamond West Hood, 5-11, f Sophomores: Jordan Gunter, 6-2, f; Tyler Baxter, 5-11, g; Clayton Hoffard, 5-10, g;

Trico

almost 100 games at the varsity level.”

Trico also returns Dylan Witthoft, a 6-1 senior guard, who will become the court general for the Pioneers.

The Pioneers don’t figure to be as athletic this year but what they lack in athleticism they will make up for in size, both inside and outside.

Trico finished 30-3 and made it all the way to the sectional final last year. But there are only two starters left from that team.

The Pioneers will have to replace Jesse Smith. He was a 1,000-point scorer and the team’s point guard.

Coach: Shane Hawkins They also will have to Seniors: DYLAN WITTHOFT, 6-1, g; Bradley replace Dennis Froemling, Goetting, 6-0, g; David Burns, 6-0, f; Daron who helped set the tone on Meyerhoff, 6-3, g; CHASE HEINS, 6-7, f; Trevor 6-3, f defense, and 6-1 guard Compton, Juniors: Klayton Bunselmeyer, 6-0, g; Blaine Tyler Coleman.

LePere, 6-4, g; Chad Bower, 6-2, f; George Kuhlman, But coming back is Chase 6-5, f; Lucas Watson, 6-3, f Sophomores: Kyle Hammel, 5-10, g; Nick Heins, a 6-7, 245 pound Dobbs, 5-11, g; Jordan Jones, 5-11, g center, who will fill up the paint nicely.

Goreville “He’s continued to mature, and he’s stronger,” Goreville is getting a new Trico coach Shane Hawkins start in the Black Diamond said. “He’s been through conference, but the the battles. He’s played Blackcats hope to continue

their tradition of making it to the regional title game.

The Blackcats have played in five straight regional title games and this year they have a mix of players they think can carry them back to the title game again.

“This year is kind of interesting because we have quite a few kids who have a chance to play some minutes,” Goreville coach Todd Tripp said. “We have possibly ten kids playing for some playing time which makes it nice. Practice is going to be pretty good because they’re going to be fighting for playing time.”

Goreville has had two kids move into its program.

Junior Blake Gray started for Vienna last year, but this year will put on the black and yellow for the Blackcats. They also have Zeke Snell, who was a force for Agape Christian School, join their program.

Coach: Todd Tripp Seniors: NATE WEBB, 6-3; Trenton Potocki, 6-0; Derrek Herren, 6-4; Ty Taborn, 6-2 Juniors: Dayton Tripp, 6-0; Alex Andros, 6-4; Colton Brown, 5-11; J.T. Russell, 6-3; Garrett Patterson, 6-3; Clayboy Shadowens, 6-0; Blake Gray, 5-10 Sophomores: Kyefer Cavins, 6-1; Zeke Snell, 63

Christopher Christopher said goodbye to a lot of players last season. Head coach Eric Stallman lost seven seniors from last season’s team,

including second team allconference player Steven Dial.

“We’ve got to replace a lot,” Christopher coach Eric Stallman said. “The bulk of the minutes and the bulk of the points I’ve got to replace this year.”

The Bearcats will depend on senior guards Kolten Pedigo and Scott Marchetti, who started almost every game last year. Junior Tyler Atchison also saw a lot of minutes last year and will need to be an important contributor for Christopher this year.

Coach: Eric Stallman Seniors: SCOTT MARCHETTI, 6-0, g; KOLTEN PEDIGO, 5-10, g; Brandon Hale, 5-11, g Juniors: Tyler Atchison, 5-11, g; Kevin Mercks, 6-6, f; RJ Kuh, 6-0, g Sophomores: Maurice Brown, 5-10, g; Jacob Towers, 5-11, g; Eric Young, 6-1, g; Ethan Conner, 62, f; Austin Williams 5-9, g

Elverado Mark Riley takes over an Elverado program that didn’t see many wins last year.

But victories are not first on Riley’s set of goals for this season. Doing things the right way is what Riley wants to focus on during his first year.

“I’m not judging the season by wins and losses,” Riley said. “There’s no way I’ll be able to come in here and snap my fingers and turn things around. I’m judging it on different things – hustle, commit-

ment and attitude. I’d like to change some things. I know it’s not going to happen overnight, but I’m not going to judge the season by wins and losses.”

Riley, who was the JV coach last year, does have five key players coming back from last year’s squad.

Bryce Mathis, Casey Hicks, Dalton Porter, Jake Lipe and Kyle Whittington will figure heavily into the Falcons’ game plan this year.

Coach: Mark Riley Seniors: Bryce Mathis, 5-7, g; Sklyar Roach, 5-7, g; DALTON PORTER, 5-10, g; Kody Body, 6-0, g; CASEY HICKS, 6-2, f; JAKE LIPE, 6-2, f; Wade Bowlin, 5-9, g Juniors: KYLE WHITTINGTON, 5-10, G; Kody Ellet, 5-7, g; Andrew Jeschke, 6-1, f

Zeigler-Royalton Zeigler-Royalton plans to play fast and furious this year to accentuate its speed and make up for its lack of size.

“We’re going to have to get out and push the ball, because we don’t have much size this year,” Zeigler-Royalton coach Mark Morgan said. “Our weakness is our size. Our biggest guy is 6-1 or 6-2.

Outside of that, everyone else is about the same height.”

The Tornadoes will depend on their two returning starters, senior Payton Clark and junior Jeffrey Pedigo, to provide leadership to a team lacking in experience.

SEE BDC WEST / PAGE 9

Paid for by the Committee to Elect Andrea McNeill for Judge Page 8 Friday, November 18, 2011 The Southern Illinoisan

Sesser-ValierWaltonville Coach Rick Metcalf is back at Sesser-ValierWaltonville. The former head coach of the Red Devils’ boys basketball team is returning — this time as the girls coach.

He has only had the job for two weeks, taking over after former coach Brian Gibson had to step down because of a job promotion.

Metcalf’s youngest daughter, Katie, is a freshman on the team and another daughter, Emmalee, is a volunteer assistant.

He takes over a program that has 16 players but only one senior, Tasha Doerr.

“I just wish I could have Doerr for more than one year,” Metcalf said. “She’s a quality post player now.”

Even with all the youth, the Red Devils should have no trouble putting points on the board.

“I think our ability to shoot the basketball will be one of our strengths,” Metcalf said.

Coach: Rick Metcalf Seniors: TASHA DOERR, 5-10, f, Juniors: Rae Lappin, 5-8, f; CHELSEA MILLER, 59, g; Maegan Eskew, 5-7, g; Mariah Miller, 5-10, f Sophomores: Bailee Jones, 5-9, f; Maty Garner, 5-8, f; Claire Pytlinski, 5-8, f; Mikala Williams, 5-10, f; Rachel Marlo, 5-10, f; Amber Williams Freshmen: Daisy Edminson; Cheyenne Pitchford; Katie Metcalf; Kali Foster; Mariyah Bruton

Chester First-year coach Pat Knowles will have to put a

Girls: Black Diamond West brand new starting five on the court with no starters returning from last year.

“It’s going to be a group effort,” Knowles said.

“There’s no one player.

They’re all equally skilled.

Night to night the scoring will probably change.”

Chester will focus on the defensive side of the ball. A pressure defense will be employed to try to create transition baskets on the other end.

“I believe our defense is going to be our strength,” Knowles said. “We’re not real quick but we’re pretty athletic.”

Time may be the Lady Yellow Jackets’ biggest need with a lot of new kids learning Knowles’ style of defense.

“We’ve got some young kids, kind of running a little bit of a new system,” Knowles said. “It’s just going to take a while to get used to playing the pressure that we want to play. We’ve got good numbers, so we can rotate in quite a few people.”

Coach: Pat Knowles Seniors: Kellie Dillow, 5-10; Megan Marcinkowska, 5-4; Raelyn Rosendohl, 5-9 Juniors: Libby Bollmann, 5-4; Sydney Clark, 511; Alison Easton, 5-7; Marah Laramore, 5-10; Taylor LaRose, 5-8; De’Na Nesbitt, 5-2; Chelsea Schroeder, 5-4; Sophomores: Sara Bindel, 5-6; Alexandria Fedderke, 6-0; Maribeth Lawrence, 5-3; Kaley Ludwig, 5-5

Elverado Elverado surprised some people last year with an upset victory in the regional tournament. The Lady Falcons hope to build on that this season.

They will have to do it without two senior starters from last year and with half their roster made up of freshmen.

“We have 13 kids out and six of them are going to be freshman,” Elverado coach Lance Bedar said. “The bench isn’t going to be very deep. If we get foul trouble, it’s going to get really ugly.”

Lacey Qualls is the one returning senior and she will be counted on heavily.

“The senior’s going to be the leader on the team,” Bedar said. “Hopefully, the three returning starters can play a little better than they did last year and we’re improved. That’s all I can ask keep improving.”

Coach: Lance Bedar Seniors: LACEY QUALLS Juniors: Corine Wilson; HANNAH RAWSON; REBECCA KORANDO; Meghann Trammel; Kelsey Leland Sophomores: Allecia Cross Freshmen: Paige Newfarmer; Kaitlin Lively; Shelby Jatho; Cheyenne Abbadusky; Kylee Bedar; Logan Hart

Chester

They also will look to sophomore Nick McPhail.

He played as a freshman last year and this year will become the team’s point guard.

Brad Norman admits his first year as head coach at Chester will be a rebuilding one.

“Maturity will be our biggest challenge,” Norman said. “We’re going to be playing a lot of juniors and a lot of sophomores.

“So, we’re going to look to rebuild this year and be even stronger next year.

We’ll be young. We’re

Coach: Mark Morgan Seniors: PAYTON CLARK, 6-2; Ryan Leposky, 6-0; Ron Kaegi, 5-7; Jamie Hargraves, 5-9 Juniors: JEFFREY PEDIGO, 5-9 Sophomores: Nick McPhail, 5-8; Bailey Schimpf, 5-10; Boris Moskoff, 5-10; Brandon Jones, 6-0; Gabe Jelley, 6-0; Trevor Fitch, 5-8; Andrew Reece, 5-9; Jeremy Weddle, 5-9; Brandon Stubblefield, 6-0

Coach: Mike Helton Seniors: SHELBEY MILLER, 5-3, g; Madison Cavins, 5-6, f; Tiffani Shadowens, 5-4, g; Rhiannon Pyle, 5-8, g; Juniors: JESSICA WRIGHT, 5-7, g; ALISON WEBB, 5-10, c; Allison Sullivan, 5-6, g Sophomores: Brittany Pritchett, 5-9, f; Marbi Martin, 5-10, c; Hayley Darnell, 5-5, g Freshmen: McKenzie Schade, 5-4, g; Gracie Snell, 5-6, f; Sydnee Rushing, 5-3, g

Trico

Goreville

Trico returns only two Goreville has most of the starters from last year’s 7pieces of the puzzle coming 19 season. With ten freshmen on the roster, the Lady Pioneers will rely heavily on

BDC WEST: Boys prep basketball preview FROM PAGE 8

back from its super sectional team that finished 27-3 last year.

“Coming off super sectional last year, we have talked about lofty expectations,” Goreville coach Mike Helton said. “But right now we’re trying to focus on finding some rhythm.

In addition to players from last year’s squad, seniors Tiffani Shadowens and Rhiannon Pyle are coming back to the program after not playing last year.

The challenge for Goreville will be finding the right mix of players.

“Last year, we were almost like a hockey line,” Helton said. “We played in shifts. We have that kind of depth. So early on it’s going to be a lot about just finding the right combination.

When we get that sorted out, we can be competitive.”

going to have a lot of turnovers early.”

Norman does figure to be able to dip into a deep bench this season.

“We are pretty evenly balanced,” Norman said.

Coach: Brad Norman Seniors: Matthew Heberlie, 6-2, f; James Brockmeyer, 5-10, g; Greg Rowald, 6-4, f Juniors: Link Cushman, 5-11, g; KYLE LANDON, 6-6, f/g; Reed Koeneman, 6-7, c; Alec Weir, 6-0, g; Chris Schwartz, 6-1, f; Dalton Misuraca, 5-10, g; CALEB ARBEITER, 5-10, g Sophomores: Jacob Lochead, 5-11, g; Cody Mileur, 5-11, g; Austin Gendron, 6-1, f; Austin Redeker, 6-1, f; Kramer Eggemeyer, 5-9, g

— Chris Hottensen

senior Rebekah Dilday and junior Katelyn Thies.

“The junior and the senior are going to have to do a lot,” Trico coach Steve Vogt said.

Trico does have a freshman coming in who potentially could contribute.

Hayleigh Heins stands 6-1 and could be a force inside, but Vogt doesn’t want to place too many expectations on a freshman.

Vogt expects his team to do well defensively, but the offense could be more of a problem.

“Putting points on the board is going to be one of my biggest concerns,” Vogt said.

Finishing in the top three of the Black Diamond Conference is the Lady Pioneers’ goal this season.

Coach: Steve Vogt Seniors: REBEKAH DILDAY, 5-8, f Juniors: Lisa Luehr, 5-2, g; KATELYN THIES, 5-9 Sophomores: Kourtney Bunselmeyer, 5-6, g; Paige Ebers, 5-4, g; Jordan Lodge, 5-7, g; Maddi McMillan, 5-5, f; Ashley Modglin, 5-8, f Freshmen: Katie Bunselmeyer; Taylor Ernsting; Colleen Guy; Hayleigh Heins; Brooke Higgerson; Jenna Moore; Audrey Peterein; Jessica Prange; Makayla Stewart; Morgan Vogt

Z-R-C Zeigler-RoyaltonChristopher coach Jeremy May has to find a way to replace the Black Diamond Conference MVP from last year. Stacy Holland was the point guard for the Tornadoes’ run to the

regional final last year.

She has graduated and senior Chandra Weddle will have to try fill those shoes.

“She’s done a good job for us in practice,” May said.

“She seems to be up to speed on everything we do.

She’s done a good job of leading so far. So she’s probably going to step into that role.

“She’s a senior and she knows what to expect.”

Z-R-C does have seven seniors and six juniors returning this season, including four starters from last years’ team.

“I think we’re going to be a very experienced team,” May said. “We’re going to be seven or eight deep.

Depth is probably going to be one of our biggest strengths this year.”

The Tornadoes won the Black Diamond conference last year and even with the emergence of Goreville in the conference this season, they expect to compete for the title again.

“They want to defend the Black Diamond conference crown this year, and I think they have a chance to do that,” May said.

Coach: Jeremy May Seniors: CHELSEY GREENWOOD, 5-8, f; ALLIE MAYER, 5-8, f; KALEIGH PERRY, 6-1, c; Chandra Weddle, 5-6, G, Racheal Grear, 5-9, f; Ronnie Threewitt, 5-8, f; Kay Eisenhauer, 5-0, g Juniors: Brandy Mifflin, 5-6, g; Maddy Caruso, 5-6, f; Marrisa Battaglia, 5-6, g; Nichole Jackson, 54, g; BREANNA PRICE, 6-1, F; Jaylin Ramicone, 5-9, f Freshmen: Alysha Rodgers, 5-7, g; Paige Rodgers, 5-4, g

— Chris Hottensen

Go Falcons!

Member FDIC

The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 18, 2011 Page 9

Boys: Black Diamond East Carmi-White County

Fairfield

Eric Dixon will begin his first year as coach of Carmi-White County with a strong team looking to make a run at the top of the conference.

“We have a little size and we have a very good group of strong athletes in the weight room,” Dixon said.

After a 13-15, 7-3 BDC, record last year, Dixon said that they want to definitely finish above .500, as well as compete for a chance to be at the top of the BDC. To do this, Dixon and the Bulldogs will look to Trenton Veach and Chase Sailer, who return with the most varsity experience from last year to be leaders.

After a 17-14 finish last year and a conference championship under their belts, the Fairfield Mules and coach Scott McElravy will look for a repeat performance this season.

“We have almost everyone back from last year,” McElravy said. “We don’t have a lot of height, but we have a lot of good kids.”

Among the many returning kids, the Mules will return four starters, including co-MVP of the conference Tyler Hutcheson.

Coach: Eric Dixon Seniors: Isaac Hayes, 6-4, f; Patrick McKenzie, 6-5, f; TRENTON VEACH, 5-9, g; Dalton Bartley, 6-2, f.

Juniors: Lukas Matsel, 5-8, g; Colin Winter 6-0, f.

Sophomores: Brodie Brown, 5-8, g; Andy Vaughan, 5-11, g; CHASE SAILER, 6-0, g; Jamey Steed, 6-4, f; Treyson Miracle, 5-10, g; Ryan Ashford, 5-8, g; Brett Short, 5-8, g; Allen Murphy, 6-2, f; Stephen McPeek, 6-1, f.

Eldorado With only three seniors, Eldorado coach T.J. Zurliene will look to the leadership of his three returning starters to set the tone for the Eagles this season and to improve on their 12-18 record from last season.

“We want to be our best around regional time,” Zurliene said. “We want to improve every day and see progression throughout the season in order to get their.”

In order to do this Zurliene will lean on forwards Lucas Weir and Ryan Langley, as well as guard Brennan Unthank as their returning starters.

Coach: T.J. Zurliene Seniors: LUCAS WEIR, 6-4, f; RYAN LANGLEY, 63, f/c; Trey Sigler, 6-2, f.

Juniors: Devin Aldridge, 5-11, g; BRENNAN UNTHANK, 5-7, g; Joel Boulds, 5-10, g; Dakota Prather, 5-10, g/f; Derek Hargrave, 5-9, g.

Sophomores: Dylan Lawrence, 5-11, g; Justin Wiseman, 6-1, c/f; Tyler Deaton, 5-8, g; Dillon Street, 5-10, g.

Coach: Scott McElravy Seniors: TYLER HUTCHESON, 5-11, f; ZANE McMEEN, 6-2, f; CODY BAILEY, 5-10, g; COLTON SLOVER, 5-9, g; EDO FERRAII, 6-4, f.

Juniors: Will Griffith, 5-9, g; Storm Kollak, 6-2, f.

Sophomores: Joe Rodgers, 5-9, g.

Hamilton County In his first year as coach of Hamilton County, Keith Welch will look to the experience that the Foxes have to put them in contention after an 8-21 finish last season.

“We have some kids back with a lot of experience,” Welch said. “That is going to be a strength of ours.”

The three main seniors Welch will look to provide leadership is point guard C.J. Lemmons, center Chad Flanigan and Adam Rubenacker.

Coach: Keith Welch Seniors: Adam Rubenacker, 5-9, g; C.J. Lemmons, 5-11, g; Chad Flannigan, 6-5, c.

Juniors: Tyler Cross, 5-9, g; Levi Lueke, 6-1, f; Garrett Biggerstaff 6-5, f/c; River Steele, 5-10, g/f.

Sophomores: Justin Reyling, 5-9, g; Jake Rubenacker, 5-7, g; Logan Billington, 5-10, f; Austin Reed, 5-10, g; Nathan Anselment, 5-10, g; Travis Stevens, 6-2, g; Balee Gay, 5-10, g/f.

Johnston City Johnston City coach Wade Thomas will look to his three returning starters to help lead them to the success that they want to see this season.

The Indians suffered through a winless confer-

ence season last year and had just nine wins total, but the energy is high for improvement this season.

Austin McPheron, Tyler Johnson and Hunter Zeigler all return as starters from last year, and Angelo Hightower also received good varsity minutes last year.

Thomas said that in order for them to play their best basketball at the end of the year, they are really going to have to work on being a good defensive team.

Coach: Wade Thomas Seniors: Grant Montgomery, 5-11, g; Cody Watkins 5-10, g; ANGELO HIGHTOWER 6-0, g; Izzy Garrison, 6-0, g; Dalton Husch, 6-2, f.

Juniors: Jory Kee, 5-10, g/f; Sheldon Stallings, 6-0, f; AUSTIN McPHERON, 6-3, f; Zach Murphy, 5-9, g; TYLER JOHNSON, 6-0, f.

Sophomores: Levi Tanner, 6-1, g; HUNTER ZEIGLER, 5-9, g; Colson Myers, 5-7, g; Luke McCormick, 5-10, g; Derek Smith, 6-2, f; Jake Davison, 6-3, f.

Vienna After a 10-win season last year and a second to last place finish in the Black Diamond Conference East Division, Vienna will look to continue to improve as the year goes on.

“We have a team full of hard-nosed kids with great work ethic,” coach Cory Waters said.

Waters said that they want get better on the win total from last year that means that they will need to see continual improvement throughout the season, despite graduating a lot of seniors from last years team.

“Our seniors set the tone and led the execution last year,” Waters said. “We will be looking for more overall execution and discipline from this years group.”

Coach: Cory Waters Seniors: Cain Taylor, 5-8, g; Brandon Futch, 63, g/f; Pat Gray, 6-1, f; Jacob McGill, 6-0, f; Will Cook, 6-3, f; Ethan Haney, 6-3, g/f; Chase Taylor, 5-9, g; Clayton Wright, 6-5, c Juniors: Richard Kindhart, 5-11, g/f; Dominick Tedeschi, 6-0, g; Lake Norris, 6-1, g Sophomores: Blake Crain, 5-7, g; Dylan Graves, 5-9, g; Lucas Wright, 5-10, g; Trenton Mowery, 6-4, f/c

Page 10 Friday, November 18, 2011 The Southern Illinoisan

— Dan Zobel

Girls: Black Diamond East Carmi-White County

Fairfield

Johnston City

Coming off of a .500 record and a 7-3 record in conference play, CarmiWhite County will look to stay competitive in the conference this season.

“We have some quickness and aggressiveness,” Bulldogs coach Scott Conner said. “We would like to be competitive in the Black Diamond Conference and want to try to improve throughout the year.”

To do this, Conner will look to three girls with the most varsity experience on the team to continue to improve and help the younger players.

With four starters returning from last years team coach Tonya Conrad and the Fairfield Mules will look to improve on last years 20 win season.

“We have a group of great ball handlers with good quickness,” Conrad said. “We want to have a winning season and go as deep into the playoffs as we can.”

The returning starters for the Mules are Kelsey Sarles, Alyssa Lang, Paige Simpson and Britni Cherry, and they will look to lead the team to a conference and regional championship.

Johnston City coach George Lennon is working on building up a program that finished 7-19, 2-8 BDC, last season and will be relatively young.

“We’re going to have some growing pains throughout this season, as we do not have a lot of experience,” Lennon said.

Lennon points to sophomores Molly Price and Andrea Boyd, as well as junior Kelsie Nagrodski, to be key to their improvement this year and on to the next couple years.

Coach: Scott Conner Seniors: BRITTANIE GARRISON, 5-9, f.

Juniors: SYDNEY CLARK, 6-0, c; EMMA BACHMAN, 5-9, g; Ryse Douthitt, 5-8, g.

Sophomores: Briley Tolley, 5-6, g; Briley Attebury, 5-8, f; Jerrica Money, 5-7, f; JoBeth Blake, 5-8, f; Bailey Winters, 5-5, g; Kelsey Rogers, 5-6.

Freshman: Laura Potter, 5-7, f; Jessica Woods, 5-4, f; Alexa Combs, 5-7, g; Claire Blankenberger, 5-4, g.

Eldorado The Eldorado girls basketball team is one of the youngest in Southern Illinois. The squad will start junior Ashton Unthank at guard along with four under classmen.

The Lady Eagles didn’t win a conference game last season and finished just 524 overall. But there is hope for the upcoming campaign because of the team’s outstanding freshmen class.

“They only lost one game over about the last three years through junior high and got second in the state last year,” said Eldorado coach Josh Bradley.

Coach: Josh Bradley Seniors: Montana Creamer, 5-6, g; Kendra Williams, 5-10, f; Lacey Boggess, 5-9, c.

Juniors: Ashton Unthank, 5-5, g; Cassidy Morris, 5-6, f; Elsie Talkington, 5-9, c.

Sophomores: Kourtney Phillips, 5-6, g; Saddie Steed, 5-5, g; Erica Graczyk, 5-10, f.

Freshmen: Taylor Goodley, 5-5, g; Paige Zertuche, 5-5, g; Riley Duckworth, 5-4, g; Lacy Bradley, 5-6, f; Moria Hellesvig, 5-9, f; Dresdyn Bramlet, 5-9, c.

Coach: Tonya Conrad Seniors: BRITNI CHERRY, 5-8, f/g; Nalisha Williams, 5-6, g; Sarah Devous, 5-4, g/f; KELSEY SARLES, 5-6, g.

Juniors: PAIGE SIMPSON, 5-8, g; Drianha Hopper, 5-8, g/f; Emily mcKibben, 5-2, g; ALYSSA LANG, 5-9, g/f; McKENNA McWILLIAMS, 5-10, f/c.

Sophomores: Tristian Currier, 5-7, g; Kayla Cessna, 5-3, g; Madeline Richards, 5-4, g.

Hamilton County In one word Hamilton County coach Clint Winemiller described his teams strength as having “depth.”

“We have several older girls back from last year and we have a nice group of younger players,” Winemiller said.

After finishing with a .500 conference record last year, Winemiller said that they are looking to contend at the top of the conference this year and always would like to win the regional.

Coach: Clint Winemiller Seniors: Alyssa Winemiller, 5-6, g; Whitney Craddock, 5-11, f/c; Marcie Niekamp, 5-8, f; Veronica Gay, 5-8, g.

Juniors: Aeriel Wilson 5-10, f/c.

Sophomores: Lucendia Adams, 5-7, g; Alicia York, 5-10, f; Erin Bonner, 5-8, f; Nicole Rubenacker, 5-7, f; Jordan Scrivner, 5-8, f.

Freshman: Megan Rubenacker, 5-8, g; Rachelle Rexing, 5-7, g; Kara Biggerstaff, 5-6, g; Dana Rubenacker, 5-9, g; Rebecca Moseley, 5-4, g; Maissie Balsover, 5-4, g; Kelsi Renn, 5-8, g; Briana Forrester, 5-6 g; MacKenzie Adams, 5-7, c/f; Maude Wheeler, 5-7, f; Hailey Scrivner, 5-4, g.

Coach: George Lennon Seniors: Bre Pitchers, 5-6; Renee Roque, 5-2; Bret South, 5-5.

Juniors: Kelsie Nagrodski, 5-6; Katie Cutsinger, 5-5.

Sophomores: Kalie Barham, 5-3; Amber Miller, 5-6; Nikki Rice, 5-3; Andrea Boyd, 5-9; Jamie Boyd, 5-9; Jamie Bantle, 5-8; Molly Price, 60.

Freshmen: Taylor Jones, 5-3; Jordan Meneese, 5-3; Jessica Conner, 6-0; Lydia Durr, 5-4; Tonya Hayes, 5-7; Tiffany Garris, 5-6; Kim Stevens, 5-8.

Vienna The 2010-11 season for the Vienna girls basketball team was a historical one, and the Lady Eagles broke the school record for wins with 28 and advanced to a sectional.

The team lost three key players but still brings back quite a bit of talent. It all starts with Carley Childress, the team’s floor general.

“I wouldn’t expect anything less than her having a big year for us,” said Vienna coach Brannon Waters.

“Each year she gets a little more responsible on the floor and becomes more of a leader. She and her sister work really well together.”

Coach: Brannon Waters.

Seniors: KELLY FITZGERALD, 5-6, g; Marissa Ross, 5-8, f; Kayla Elms, 5-8, f; Kassey McDonald, 5-5, g; Skylynn Stevens, 5-6, g; BROOKE CHILDRESS, 5-8, f; Jessica McMahon, 5-8, f; Kasyn Moore, 6-1, f.

Juniors: CARLEY CHILDRESS, 5-7, g; Knikki Keeling, 5-6, g; Keeley Harper, 5-6, g.

Sophomores: MIRANDA CHANCE, 5-7, g; Assiah Mercer, 5-10, f.

— Dan Zobel and Scott Mees

Boys: South Egyptian Cobden Coach Rhett Barke returns three starters from a team that went 14-16 and finished fourth in the SEC last season. The Appleknockers should benefit from a year of experience.

“The biggest thing for us is maturity,” Barke said.

“We had three freshmen last year who played significant minutes at the varsity level.”

Juniors Josh Aspen and J.C. Chapman as well as senior R.J. Millis return for the Appleknockers.

Coach: Rhett Barke Seniors: Joseph Eck, 6-4. f; R.J. MILLIS, 5-11, g.

Juniors: JOSH ASPEN, 6-2, f; J.C. CHAPMAN, 511, g; Garrett Marks, 6-3, f; Thomas Murillo, 6-0, f; Nathan Sweitzer, 6-0, g/f; Jordan Waldrop, 6-0, g.

Sophomores: Elijah Duckworth, 6-0; g\f; Austin Flamm, 6-0, f; Tyler Lewey, 6-2, g-f; Zach Moore, 5-11, g; Luis Vicente, 6-0, f.

Freshmen: Sam Cohen, 5-9, g; Parker Flamm, 6-1, f; Alex Inman, 5-10, g; Guillermo Palmerin, 57, g.

Century Former Cobden girls head coach Travis Foster takes over the reins from Tyson Bormann at Century this season. Foster is a former assistant boys coach at Cobden under Josh Franklin.

“I’ve got more experience coaching boys than girls,” he said. “The pace of the game is different for boys than girls.”

Chance Butler, a 6-5 senior, Cordon Hight, 5-11 a junior, and Javel Scott 511, senior, return this year for Century.

Coach: Travis Foster Seniors: Quaetonio Bell, 6-2, g-f; Jaron Brust, 6-0, f; CHANCE BUTLER, 6-5, f-c; Joseph Everett, 510, g; Anthony Kimmins, 6-1, f; JAVEL SCOTT, 5-11, g; Austin Warton, 6-2, g\f.

Juniors: CORDON HIGHT, 5-10, g.

Sophomores: Milik Hughes, 5-5, g; Aaron Jones, 5-10, g; Devontay Pullett, 6-4, c; Zach Sauerbrunn, 5-10, g.

Freshmen: Tivon Clemons, 5-9, f; Blake Crane, 5-8, g; Jarred Davis, 5-6, g; Devarae Edmonds, 62, g\f; Caden Hight, 5-8, g; Colin Jones, 5-7, g; Austin Wethington, 5-5, g.

Dongola There is a lot of excite-

ment in Dongola this sea- “We need to focus on that.” son as the Demons return Coach: Trebor Hill four starters from a team Seniors: Wyatt Aviles, 5-10, g; Dalton Godfrey, 6-3, c; Dalton Stoner, 6-0, g-f. that finished at 5-19.

Austin Arrison, 5-10, f; ALEX COPLEY, “Speed, quickness and 5-10,Juniors: g-f. shooting are going to be Sophomores: Joey Bennett, 5-9, g; Tyler major assets.” said Dongola Castleman, 5-10, g; Justin Harvill, 5-9, g; Trey Sharp, 6-1, g-f; Andy Walquist, 6-5, c. coach Russ Marsh.

Freshmen: Marky Marlatt, 5-10, g; Michael Sparks, 6-2, g-f; Blake Wright, 5-8, g.

Coach: Russ Marsh Seniors: JORDAN EADS, 6-0, g; Austin Hinkle, 6-2, f; TYLER THOMPSON, 6-0, g.

Juniors: TYLER EDDLEMAN, 6-5, c; CLAY HARRIS, 6-1, g; Brock Patterson, 5-11, g; Bradley Ralls, 6-2, f; Darius Schaure, 6-0, g; Justin Simms, 6-1, f.

Sophomores: Donnie Gibson, 5-11, f.

Freshmen: A.J. Casper, 6-0, g; Dakota Easterly, 6-0, g; Uriah Holmes, 6-2, c; Timmy Kissiar, 6-1, f.

Egyptian

Meridian The Bobcats look to be the team to beat once again in the SEC and look to duplicate last year’s success, where they lost in the super-sectional.

“We would like to be as good,” said coach Jeff Mandrell. “We’re putting that out as a goal, advance further, talent, luck, and a lot of other things need to fall into place.”

They are starting off on the right foot, returning three starters.

The Pharaohs return four starters from last year’s team that went 22-7 and 61, good for second in the SEC. “Last year we kind of snuck up on people and people didn’t expect much out of us last year (lost Coach: Jeff Mandrell people the year before.

Seniors: CAMERON BALLARD, 5-10; David Everyone pretty much Edwards, 6-1; JERRY JOHNSON, 6-4; Justin 6-4; Alonzo Madison, 5-10; DaMarko knows that we’re competi- McClellan, Ransom, 5-9; Erik Vasser, 5-11. tive and we’re not going to Juniors: Greg Hopkins, 5-11; JOSH JONES, 6-3; surprise people.” said Jammerio Moore, 6-0.

Sophomores: Michael Schoffner, 6-0; Meekial coach Matt Mandrell.

Steele, 6-4.

Freshman: David Davis, 5-10.

Darmez Nelson, a 6-0 guard, as well as Marcus Marable, a 6-1 junior for- Shawnee ward, returns for the First-year coach Pharaohs.

LaDonna Bachmann, who was hired three weeks Coach: Matt Mandrell Seniors: Tyler Bendick, 5-11, g; DARMEZ before the season, enters NELSON, 6-0, g; Steven Salzman, 5-10, g; this season with a lot of KEYONTAE WOODSON, 6-3, f.

Juniors: Reggie Davis, 6-0, g; Alex depth, as the Redskins Santamaria, 5-10, g; Brandon Woodson, 6-0, g; have 17 kids in the proMARCUS MARABLE, 6-1, f; DEVANTAE PRICE, 6-1, gram. g; Austin Murphy, 6-1, f; Bryce Bigham, 6-3, f.

Sophomores: Cameron Grueninger, 5-9, g; “This is the beginning Justin Prewitt, 6-2, f; Ovell Pollard, 6-0, g. and I believe in working them on everything,” Joppa Bachmann said. “Defense The Rangers return only will win games and one starter (Alex Copley) rebounds win champifrom a team that went 7-19 onships.”

Coach: LaDonna Bachmann last season and 2-5 in the Tyler Dillon, 5-11, f; ANDREW LIVESAY, SEC. Eliminating mistakes 6-2,Seniors: f; Gary Pind, 5-7, g; GAGE SHELTON, 5-5, g. and better rebounding will Juniors: GAVYN ELLET, 5-9, f; Chris Jordan, 60, f; Dalton Myers, 6-6, f; BRANDON PIND, 5-9, g; be the keys to success.

Logan Sissom, 5-7, g.

“We can’t make Sophomores: AIDEN MCMAHAN, 5-9, g; unforced turnovers and AUSTIN TREECE, 6-3, c.

Freshman: Jesse Ballance, 5-10, f; Elijah rebounding has always Boren, 5-6, f; Michael Crane, 5-6, g; Braden Mezo, been one of our weakness- 5-10, f; Jayson Rose, 5-8, g; Jacob Sims, 5-9, f. es,” said coach Trebor Hill.

— Chuck Highland

Girls: South Egyptian Cobden There will be a new face patrolling the sidelines this year for the Cobden Lady Appleknockers as Keri Jones takes over for Travis Foster, who is now the boys’ basketball coach and athletic director at Century.

Cobden returns three starters from last year’s team that finished at .500, Bekah Russell, Krysti Davis, and Katie Mowell.

“Communication is going to be the biggest key,” Jones said. “They communicate with each other on and off the court.”

Coach: Keri Jones Seniors: BEKAH RUSSELL, 5-4, g; KRYSTI DAVIS, f; KATIE MOWELL, g.

Juniors: Devyn Inman, f; Marisa Howe, f.

Sophomores: Laurelin Pitts, g; Ashley Millis, g; Brenda Carmona, g; Brooklyn Yancey, f; Haley Tomazzoli, g; Aurdrey Sirles, c.

Freshmen: Sandra Hartline, g; Tempest Vandergraph, c;.

Egyptian Coach Erin Jackson returns three starters, senior Samantha Hale, junior Morgan Busby, and junior Katie Lipe, from last year’s team that went 3-12.

“Rebounding is a big issue as well as defense.” said Jackson.

Hale is a key component of this year’s squad.

“She’s going to help mold us together,” Jackson said.

“When she’s out there everyone’s calm and relaxed.”

Coach: Erin Jackson Seniors: SAMANTHA HALE, 5-7, f.

Juniors: MORGAN BUSBY, 5-6, g; April Blaney, 5-7, f; Jessica Brooks, 5-9, f; KATIE LIPE, 5-8, f; Jimberlea Bledsoe, 5-4, g; Sophomores: Ashlee Green, 5-3, g; Kayde Wood, 5-8, f; Adina Green, 5-4, g.

Freshmen: Cambria Bigham, 5-6, g; Ashanti Wade, 5-8, f; Breanna Butler, 5-6, g; Shay Allen, 58, f.

Meridian The Lady Bobcats return four starters, seniors Tasha Dickson, Jane Busby, Skylar Blake, and sophomore Marie Johnson from a team that was just under .500

last season. Coach Dawn Turner looks to her returning starters to make an impact this season.

“Returning Skylar Blake, who is coming off the injured list, is going to add a lot of speed as well as Jane Busby,” said Turner.

Coach: Dawn Turner Seniors: SKYLAR BLAKE, 5-4, g; Latara Slaughter, 5-3, g; Jamilla Valentine, 5-5, g; JANE BUSBY, 5-5, g; TASHA DICKSON, 5-4, g.

Juniors: Qwtasia Sawyer, 5-6, f.

Sophomores: Cierra Ballard, 5-7, f; MARIE JOHNSON, 5-8, f.

Freshmen: Shanice Wiggins, 5-0, g; Sierra Covington, 5-0, g; De’Ja Johnson, 5-8, f; Jacy Johnson, 5-6, g; Keandra Knighten, 5-6, g; Amari Acree, 5-9, f; Ariel Beard, 5-3. g.

Century The Lady Centurions only lost one starter but that starter, Kayla Eddington, averaged 22 points a game.

“We’re going to be better defensively hopefully and I have some freshmen that are really aggressive and get after it on defense.” said Century coach David Dexter.

Morgan Atherton, who averaged 19 points a game and averaged 10.5 rebounds per game as a freshman for the Lady Centurions, returns as well as Amanda Cheek, who averaged 7 points and 7 rebounds.

Coach: David Dexter Seniors: KAYLA REAGAN, 5-8, g; CHELSEA RUFFO, 5-3, g; LAUREN TAAKE, 5-7, g.

Juniors: Natalie Hubbard, 5-3, g; Jade Yates, 57, g.

Sophomores: MORGAN ATHERTON, 5-10, f; AMANDA CHEEK, 5-7, g; Amber Davis, 5-11, f.

Freshmen: Jordan Clark Holcomb, 5-6, g; Dina Hoenig, 5-8, g; Hannah Miller, 5-5, g; Hannah Oliver, 5-4, g; Makayla Sickling, 5-1, g; Hailey Wilhelm, 5-4, g.

Dongola Rob Shepard enters his first season as coach for the Lady Demons with a lot of enthusiasm. Three senior starters, Emily Terbrak, Raven Merriman, and Michaela Penrod, return from last year’s squad.

Lindsey Smith, a transfer student from Missouri who

is playing her first year of basketball, should help out.

“The biggest thing for us is showing up and playing as a team.” said Shepard.

Coach: Rob Shepard Seniors: RAVEN MERRIMAN, 5-5, g; MICHAELA PENROD, 5-5, g; Lindsey Smith, 5-2, g; EMILY TERBRAK, 6-1, c.

Juniors: Haley Fuller, 5-5, g; Brittney Hinkle, 58, f.

Sophomores: Reba Robinson, 5-9, g; Ashlyn Schultz, 5-9, c; Stephanie Shepard, 5-7, f; Victoria Shirkey, 5-8, g.

Freshmen: Cossandra Gorst, 5-1, g; Kyeli Flores, 5-3, g; Brenna Murphy, 5-5, g.

Joppa The Lady Rangers return to the hardwood after a year’s absence and firstyear coach Molly Stephens and her team are excited about making a go of it.

“The biggest thing for us is that we’re a name team and that we’re starting fresh,” said Stephens.

The Lady Rangers have a big freshman class coming in.

Coach: Molly Stephens Seniors: Charlee Gilbert, 5-6, f; Brittny Turner, 5-5, g.

Juniors: Kendra Calvin, 5-11, f; Sonja Robertson, 5-4, g.

Sophomores: Tasha Brown, 5-4, g.

Freshmen: Katie Bennett, 5-5, g; Sarah Burnett, 5-10, f; Samantha Fasolo, 5-6, f; Mollie McCarver, 5-10, f; Alyssa Stubblefield, 5-7, f.

Shawnee Coach Chad Pitts returns three starters from a team that finished 19-6 and made it to the regional finals before losing to Marissa.

“We are gaining a starter, Jessie Reynolds, who was lost last year with an injury.” said Pitts.

The Lady Reds lost an important part of the puzzle from last year as Kaylee Boston graduated but Pitts feels that the girls that are returning will help fill that hole.

Coach: Chad Pitts Seniors: Haley Murphy, 5-6, g; Jessie Reynolds, 5-6, g Juniors: Sanni Ahokas, 5-9, g; REAGAN BROWN, 5-7, g; TAYLOR ELLIS, 5-9, g; JORDAN JOHNSON, 5-9, f; Gwen Kuehne, 5-9, f; Taylor Loveless, 5-6, g.

— Chuck Highland

The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 18, 2011 Page 11

Girls: Greater Egyptian Galatia After struggling last season, Josh Summers is hoping his Galatia squad can come around to a conference championship.

“It’s going to be tough,” Summers said. “It’s a small conference, though, so we have a chance.”

Summers said the team may see some early season struggles, but he expects to see improvement throughout the season.

“I’m expecting to lose some early and hopefully win later in the year,” Summers said. “I have a whole bunch of girls that have never played on the team before.”

Coach: Josh Summers Seniors: Skai Tso, 5-8, c/f; Amber Stevens, 56, g/f.

Juniors: Tayler Sweet, 5-1, g.

Sophomores: Emily Reed, 5-4, g; Kasey Bowlin, 5-6, g/f; Madison Fletcher, 5-2 g; Seneca

Tso, 5-7, c/f; Evan Patterson 5-3, g.

Freshmen: Christina Standridge, 5-5, c/f; Brooke Sweet, 5-2, g; Elizabeth Sloan, 5-6, g/f.

Gallatin County Gallatin County hopes to stay on top this season after going 15-15 last season and winning a conference and regional championship.

Coach Chuck Ingram said right now the team’s biggest goal is to play as one unit.

“Our biggest goal right now is to play together and really work on the little things of the game like pick-and-roll and trying to anticipate where the ball is,” Ingram said. “The little technique things they don’t understand yet.”

Returning to the starting lineup for Gallatin County is Casey Crissup, who is just 36 points away from

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Coach: Chuck Ingram Seniors: CASEY CRISSUP, 5-3, g; Lanna Walters.

Juniors: Emily Logsdon, 5-7, f; Makenzie Prince, Lexi Prince, 5-2, g; Kasey Speer, 5-3, g; Carrie Abell, 5-11, f.

Sophomores: Lacey Williford, Jessica Cox. Freshmen: Sydney Ahrens, Shay Wood, Brooke Van, Kristin Jester, Hannah Logsdon.

Hardin County Hardin County’s girls basketball program returns this season after being absent last year.

Coach Drew Boehler said it has not been easy getting the program going again.

“It’s been a rough start getting everything organized since they didn’t have a program in place,” Boehler said.

The team is trying to set realistic goals for itself early in the year.

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Boys: Greater Egyptian Carrier Mills After finishing third in the Greater Egyptian Conference last season, Carrier Mills has had trouble getting the necessary early season reps to prepare for a shot at a conference championship this season.

Coach Mark Motsinger said the Wildcats have been without a practice facility as repairs have been made to the high school gym.

“We’ve been kind of splitting time with the volleyball and grade school basketball team at the grade school,” Motsinger said.

“We’re looking like we should look in September.”

Coach: Mark Motsinger Seniors: GABE MORGAN, 6-5, f; Dathan Taborn, 5-7, g; Jordan Walker, 6-4, c\f; Colin Crim, 5-10, g; Clayton Stucker, 6-1, f; Eric Wolf, 5-8, g.

Juniors: Cameron Taborn, 6-2, f; Josh Bailey, 59, g.

Sophomores: Dalton Summers, 5-6, g.

Freshmen: Gabriel Motsinger, 6-0, f;, Sladen Figg, 5-9, g; Darrin Betz, 5-10, g.

Crab Orchard Crab Orchard comes into the season as one of the two heavy favorites in the conference.

Returning two of the conference’s best players, senior point guard Drew Johnson and senior forward Ben Kissing, the Trojans are hoping to repeat as conference champions after a 294 (14-0) season in 2010-11.

“We have good balance,” said coach Jon Brown. “We have perimeter players, we’ve got inside players. We can get up and down the floor.”

Coach: Jon Brown Seniors: DREW JOHNSON, 5-10, g; COTY WECE, 5-8, g; BEN KISSING, 6-5, c, Hunter Arnold, 6-3, f.

Juniors: Clint Emery, 5-9, f; Ty Bailey, 6-2, c; Cody Marks, 5-11, f; Chase Craig, 6-3, f.

Sophomores: Caleb Perry, 5-9, f; Tyler Deaton, 5-9, f; Josh Emery, 5-8, g; Zach Ray, 5-8, g.

Freshmen: Colton McCree, 6-1, f; Gunnar Galloway, 5-11, f; Travis Tarlton, 5-9, f; Jonathan Stephens, 5-10, f.

Kendall Hankins is fielding a team that returns one starter, Josh Moore, from last season’s 18-13 squad.

Despite the return of just one starter, six seniors will step on the court to give some veteran leadership to Galatia.

“I’m really hoping for the team to really establish an unselfish style of basketball,” Hankins said.

“They’re a very hardworking group of boys that play the right way.”

Coach: Kendall Hankins Seniors: JOSH MOORE, 6-3, f; Ben Genet, 6-0, f; Nathan Teal, 5-10, g; Shay Flowers, 6-0, c; Travis Bond, 6-10, g; Shannon Sanders, 6-3, f.

Sophomores: Adam Brothers, 5-6, g; Bodie Beckman, 5-8, g; Brian Benham, 5-7, g; Michael Mondino, 5-11, f; Tyler Slone, 6-0, c; Zane Stanley, 57, g.

Freshman: John Simpson, 5-6, g.

Gallatin County Gallatin County, returning all five starters from last season, looks to be the biggest threat to Crab Orchard repeating as conference champions.

Led by 6-foot-11 junior center Andrew Drone, who averaged 18 points per game last season and is just 36 points away from joining the 1,000 point club, and 6foot-5 junior Patrick Lowe, who averaged 13 points per game last season, the Hawks are hoping to knock Crab Orchard off the top of the conference.

“We had a good summer, went to some camps and played well,” said coach Robert “Radar” Patton.

Coach: Robert Patton Seniors: Bryant Aud, 5-9, g; ANDREW COX, 6-2, f; Drake Patton, 5-10, g.

Juniors: DAINE HISH, 5-10, g; PATRICK LOWE, 65, f; ANDREW DRONE, 6-11, c; Anthony Sorto, 5-10, g; Wes McGuire, 6-4, f.

Sophomores: Mitch Ramsey, 5-9, g; Zach McGuire, 5-11, g; Austin Russell, 5-6, g; Jared Jackson, 5-11, g.

Gallatin County in the regional championship.

Coach Rodney Lane said the experience the team gained last year should give them a big boost this season.

“They know the program more this year,” Lane said.

“These kids have worked really hard over the summer and those four starters gained a lot of experience because they started every game last year.”

Coach: Rodney Lane Seniors: TONY PARKINSON, 5-9, f; Garrett Hays, 5-11, c; KYLE HOLLOMAN, 5-10, f; JOE MCCLENAHAN, 6-2, f; GARRETT FLEMMINGS, 5-10, g; Brandon Flemmings, 6-1, f.

Juniors: Dalton Vaughn, 5-10, g; Skyler Williams, 5-11-f.

Sophomores: Garrett Walker, 5-7, g; Jeremy Hicks, 6-2, c.

Freshmen: Darrien Robinson, 5-8, g; B.J. Austin, 5-10, f; Tanner Dutton, 5-10, f; Logan Conn, 5-4, g; Colton Winters, 5-8, f; Aaron Winters, 5-10, f.

NCOE Norris City-OmahaEnfield, coming off an 11-15 year, will be fielding a young team this season.

Coach Doug Miller said there are 27 kids in the program, but no seniors.

“We’ve been going twoa-days with just fundamentals,” Miller said.

“We’ve hit a lot of defense and all the fundamentals.

We’re just trying to figure out who we are right now and what we have.”

Miller said Crab Orchard and Gallatin County would likely be the frontrunners to win the conference.

Coach: Doug Miller Juniors: Colton Steyck, 5-10, f; Dylan Martin, 60, g; Caleb Brown, 5-9, g; Luke Marsh, 5-10, g; Justin Knight, 6-1, f; Seth Halfacre, 6-6, c; Matt Frymire, 510, f.

Sophomores; Briar Short, 5-6, g; Jacob Taylor, 5-10, g; Tyler Lamb, 6-0, g; Cole Tucker, 5-9, g; Dakota Wheeler, 5-11, f.

Freshmen: Blake Karnes, 5-11, g.

Pope County

Jim Simmons enters his first year as head coach at Hardin County returns Pope County, hoping to Galatia four starters and six seniors turn around a team that Entering his first season from a team that went 14-15 went 2-22 last season. at Galatia, head coach last season and lost to SEE GEC BOYS / PAGE 15

Hardin County

Boys: Independents Cairo Larry Baldwin is back for his second term as Cairo coach. He succeeds Rich McBride Baldwin has two starters back in Jalen Childs, a 6-3 senior forward and Allen Cruthird, a 6-4 senior center. However, seven other players saw action for the Pilots last year. That group includes, Cori Williams, a 5-8 senior, Devonte Johnson, a 5-10 junior, Darrell Jackson, a 5-5 senior, Stevieon Houston, a 60, senior, Cordell Johnson, a 6-4 junior, Nekuma Johnson, a 6-2 senior and Terion Taylor, a 5-11 junior.

Two newcomers, Dournjor McIntosh, a 6-4 senior, and Floyd Johnson, a 58 junior, could also see playing time.

“I’m pretty upbeat about them,” Baldwin said. “A lot of these kids can potentially play.”

Coach: Larry Baldwin Seniors: JALEN CHILDS, 6-3, f; Allen Cruthird, 6-4, c; Cori Williams, 5-8, g; Darrell Jackson, 5-5, g; Stevieon Houston, 6-0, g; Cordell Johnson, 6-4, f; NeKuma Johnson, 6-2, f; Dournjor McIntosh, 6-4, f.

Juniors: Floyd Johnson, 5-8, g; Devonte Johnson, 5-10, g.

Carlyle The Indians have virtually everyone back from a team that finished 13-16 last year.

Four starters return in Jordan Smith, a 6-0 senior, Hunter Hartung, a 6-2 senior, Cody Huels, a 6-0 junior and 6-3 sophomore Matt Hilmes.

However, coach Andy Palmer has more weapons at his disposal. Nathan Miller, a 6-4 junior, Karnealous Walker, a 6-0 junior, Logan Zachry, a 5-11 sophomore, and John Becker, a 6-2 sophomore, will also see plenty of action.

“I think we can run an eight-man rotation that will be solid,” Palmer said.

“We don’t have great size,

but I think we’ll compete pretty hard. We have some decent quickness and I think we’ll shoot it pretty well too. All our so-called bigs can step out on the perimeter.”

Coach: Andy Palmer Seniors: JORDAN SMITH, 6-0, g; HUNTER HARTUNG, 6-2, f.

Juniors: CODY HUELS, 6-0, g; Nathan Miller, 64, f; Karnealous Walker, 6-0, g.

Sophomores: MATT HILMES, 6-3, f; Logan Zachry, 5-11, g; John Becker, 6-2, f.

Okawville Jon Kraus’ Rockets will be deep and experienced this year.

The Rockets finished 1912 last year and return all five starters, and a bevy of players that have received extensive playing time.

Last year’s starters were Jeremy Weeke, a 6-2 junior, Taylor Walton, a 6-4 senior, Jacob Brammeier, a 5-9 sophomore, Ryan Holtgrave, a 6-2 senior and Brandon Buss, a 6-2 senior.

However, Kraus said several others players could move into the starting lineup.

“We’ll play probably 1213 kids,” Kraus said. “We could have a different starting lineup every night.”

Coach: Jon Kraus Seniors: TAYLOR WALTON, 6-4, f; RYAN HOLTGRAVE, 6-2, f; BRANDON BUSS, 6-2, f; Austin Schwankhaus, 5-9, g, Bryce Kolweier, 6-2, f; Jared Blumhorst, 6-2, f.

Juniors: JEREMY WEEKE, 6-2, g; Connor Obermeier, 5-10, g; Ryan Burrough, 6-0, g; Jake Hensler, 6-2, f.

Sophomores: JACOB BRAMMEIER, 5-9, g; Alex Rossel, 6-1, f.

Steeleville Coach Gerald Mumbower is starting from scratch this season. The Warriors lost the top seven players from last year’s 21-11 team.

“For a school of 135 kids, you lose nine seniors, that’s not a good sign,” Mumbower said. “We’re definitely rebuilding.”

There are eight players vying for playing time, including seniors Jacob Combs, 5-10, and Jeff Wilson, 6-5; juniors Darin

Girls: Independents

Winkelman, 6-5, Reid Wilson, 6-3, Dylan Wesbecher, 6-1; sophomores Steve Uchtman, 6-1, Kyle Smith, 5-9, and A.J. Jeffers, 5-10.

Coach: Gerald Mumbower Seniors: Jacob Combs, 5-10, g; Jeff Wilson, 6-5, f.

Juniors: Darin Winkelman, 6-5, f; Reid Wilson, 6-3, g\f; Dylan Wesbecher, 6-1, g.

Sophomores: Steve Uchtman, 6-1, g; Kyle Smith, 5-9, g; A.J. Jeffers, 5-10, g.

Waltonville Second-year coach Chad Harper has two players returning from last year’s 9-18 squad.

Juniors Trey Witges, a 6-2 guard and Jordan Hale, a 65 forward, both started last year.

“It was a growth experience,” he said. “We had some of these young guys having to move into varsity roles.”

Coach: Chad Harper Seniors: Levi Rapp, 5-10, f; Jake Phillips, 5-8, g; Dan Halleran, 6-1, c.

Juniors: TREY WITGES, 6-2, g; JORDAN HALE, 65, f; Derrick Whisenant, 6-1, g; Matt Rogers, 6-1, f.

Sophomores: Hunter Coggins, 5-9, g; Austin Zahn, 6-3, c.

Woodlawn Shane Witzel has three starters returning from last season’s Class A third place squad. The Cardinals compiled a 30-4 mark last year.

The returnees include 64 senior Christian Hollenkamp, 6-5 junior Gabe Owens and 5-11 senior A.J. Webb. Logan Isaak, a 6-1, junior, saw considerable action off the bench last year.

“The three starters and Isaak had a lot of experience in big games last year in our run to the state finals,” Witzel said. “We lost two really good players, but it’s a good base to build on.”

Coach: Shane Witzel Seniors: CHRISTIAN HOLLENKAMP, 6-4, f; A.J. WEBB, 5-11, g.

Juniors: GABE OWENS, 6-5, g; Logan Isaak, 6-1, f; Matt Kennedy, 6-0, g.

Sophomores: Jason Hapeman, 5-11, g; Jake Robinson, 6-2, g.

— Les Winkeler

Cairo

Okawville

Kelly Shepard returns for her third stint as coach of the Cairo Co-Pilots.

She takes over for Jim Drew, who replaced Shepard.

“We’re just trying to get a team that can be competitive,” she said. “We don’t have any size. We’ll have to be more quick than anything.”

Two starters return in seniors Chalice Gardner and Ortres Bridges.

Inexperience will be an issue.

Okawville coach Michelle Borianek has three starters returning from last year’s 12-15 squad.

Returnees are senior guard-forward Hanna Bergkoetter, a 5-10 senior and junior guards Megan Wienstroer and Jolyn Lake.

“I’m looking for a good year,” Borianek said.

“We’re finally starting to come together a little bit.

Our schedule is tough.

Hopefully, we can put on a pressure defense and get the ball down the floor.”

Two players likely to step into the starting lineup are Janel Lake, a 5-10 junior forward, and Ashley Garlich, a 5-6 junior guard.

Borianek said Bergkoetter, Wienstroer and Lake will be counted on to do the bulk of the scoring.

Coach: Kelly Shepard Seniors: ORTRES BRIDGES, 5-8, g; CHALICE GARDNER, 5-4, g; Sara Moore, Portia Bondurant, Shaniqua Williams.

Juniors: Jaala Terry.

Sophomores: Antwonishia Maborn, Alexus Murden.

Freshmen: Joyce Nelson, Korce Simelton, Takeem Taylor, Heavonee Wells, Tyana Williams.

Carlyle A young and inexperienced Lady Indians team struggled in a 4-21 campaign last year.

“We started four sophomores last year, and sometimes five sophomores,” said coach Randy Voss.

“We were real young. We had a great summer. We built a little confidence. It will be nice to see us come out and compete with some of the teams we didn’t have a chance with last year.”

Although still young, Carlyle does have some experience.

Jessie Beckmann, a 5-10 center, and Sedreyana Harris, a 5-9 forward, will be third-year year starters this year.

In addition, Paige Rakers, a 5-10 guard, is closing in on 1,000 points.

Coach: Randy Voss Seniors: Jenna Huels, 5-6, g; Cati Funderberk, 5-5, g; Courtney Kern, 5-8, g\f.

Juniors: PAIGE RAKERS, 5-10, g; JESSIE BECKMANN, 5-10, c; SEDREYANA HARRIS, 5-9, f; SARAH HAAKE, 5-10, g\f; Shaelyn Tate, 5-5, g.

Sophomores: Kylee Ledbetter, 5-5, g; Britlyn Tyberent, 5-9, f; Brianna Smith, 5-8, g\f; Lori Whisenand, 5-9, f; McKenzie Magnus, 5-11, c.

Coach: Michelle Borianek Seniors: HANNA BERGKOETTER, 5-10, g/f.

Juniors: MEGAN WIENSTROER, 5-7, g; JOLYN LAKE, 5-5, g; Janel Lake, 5-10, f; Ashley Garlich, 56, g.

Steeleville The Lady Warriors finished 11-11 last year in just their second year of varsity competition.

Coach Darryl Winkelman has four starters returning from that squad.

Returnees include seniors Natalie Ruebke, a 5-7 guard, and Morgan Lindner, a 5-7 forward, and juniors Alex Gale, a 5-9 forward and Kassee Theobald, a 5-5, g.

However, Theobald is still recovering from off-season hip surgery and will be out until January.

Sarah Potter, a 5-9, sophomore guard, is expected to start.

“These girls have been with the program from the start,” Winkelman said.

“They’re got some experience.

Coach: Darryl Winkelman Seniors: NATALIE RUEBKE, 5-7, g; MORGAN LINDNER, 5-7, f.

Juniors: ALEX GALE, 5-9, f; KASSEE THEOBALD, 5-5, g.

Sophomores: Sarah Potter, 5-9, g.

Woodlawn The Lady Cardinals finished 20-7 last year, bowing out of the state tournament in first round sectional play.

Coach Eric Helbig returns three experienced players in Leah Sutton, a 58 senior guard, Kinzie Verhines, a 5-7 senior forward, and Alexa Capps, a 5-5 junior guard. However, no one else on the squad played minutes.

“Leah and Alexa were both All-South performers last year,” Helbig said.

“They’re two of the top guards in the area. We’re going to depend on them for the bulk of the scoring this year. Kinzie is one of the best defenders in the area. “ Other players likely to see action are Megan Isaac, a 5-10 sophomore, Tiffanry Smith, a 5-7 senior, Elesa Hefner, a 5-6 junior, and Allison England, a 5-6 sophomore.

“Isaac will do an admirable job inside,” Helbig said. “We’ll count on her for a lot of boards.

She’ll need some help against some of the strong post players we’ll see this year.

“Depth is really going to be an issue with us this year. Some of the freshmen coming in are going to be thrown to the wolves early.”

Woodlawn competes in the Midland Trail Conference.

Coach: Eric Helbig Seniors: LEAH SUTTON, 5-8, g; KINZIE VERHINES, 5-7, f; Tiffany Smith, 5-7, f.

Juniors: ALEXA CAPPS, 5-5, g; Elesa Hefner, 56, g.

Sophomores: Allison England, 5-6, g; Megan Isaac, 5-10, f.

Freshman: Makaila Ballard, 5-8, c.

— Les Winkeler

The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 18, 2011 Page 13

Page 14 Friday, November 18, 2011 The Southern Illinoisan

Prep Basketball 2011-12: Cover Story

SOUTH SEVEN: Boys basketball preview FROM PAGE 2

Belleville Althoff After winning its first South Seven title two years ago, the Belleville Althoff Crusaders took a step back last year, falling to a tie for fourth at 3-7 and 11-18 overall.

“We’ve only had a couple of losing seasons in the last 14 years and last year was one of them,” said coach Greg Leib. “This year, I feel we’re going to be very competitive.”

Leib has only one starter back in point guard Eldin

Salmond and two reserves, Caleb Harms and Erik Furmanek, with any significant experience.

Coach: Greg Leib Seniors: ELDON SALMOND, 5-10, g; Caleb Harms,6-3, f; Austin Von Alst, 5-10, g; Alex Sandheinrich, 5-9, g; Nesh Quarles, 6-3, f; Caylin Raftopolis, 5-8, g.

Juniors: Erik Furmanek, 6-4, f; Ryan Marcum, 6-3, f.

Sophomores: Jabari Taylor, 6-1, g; Kevin Renner, 5-10, g.

Cahokia With most of last year’s lineup in tact, the Comanches (17-15) are in a position to make a run at the South Seven after finishing third.

“We’re still young, but we’re not young,” said coach Darian Nash. “I’ve got a lot of good players coming back and, I’m not kidding, all 11 could start on somebody’s team.”

Nash returns honorable mention All-State junior Keenan Minor, Derenzo Jennings, Carleton Rivers and Traveyon Smoot.

Coach: Darian Nash Seniors: TRAVEYON SMOOT, 6-8, c/f; Andrew Tucker, 6-1, g; Tyrone Golliday, 6-5, c/f; Devontae Gines, 6-6, f/c; Devon Hayes, 6-2, g.

Juniors: KEENAN MINOR, 6-2, g; DERENZO JENNINGS, 5-10, g; Vincent Jackson, 6-6, f/c.

Sophomores: CARLETON RIVERS, 6-3, g; Darius Austin, 6-6, g/f; Gary Hickman, 6-4, g/f.

— Geary Deniston

GEC GIRLS: A look at the conference FROM PAGE 12 “We’re trying not to set our hopes too high because we realize we’re coming up against a lot,” Boehler said.

“Our biggest goals are to compete in every game and not give up. We want to be competitive.”

Boehler said the team has 11 girls out this year, some of who have never played before.

“It’s been a lot of shaking the dust off,” Boehler said.

Coach: Drew Boehler

Seniors: Leah Patton; Lauryn Patton.

Juniors: Kylie Jones; Danielle Davis; Breuna Kumorek Sophomores: Brenda Roberts; Amy Winters; Teri Winters Freshmen: Jasie Owen; Jayci Vaughn; Carley Hall.

Pope County Last season, Pope County went 12-14, winning the regular season GEC title and finishing second in the conference tournament.

Head coach Jessi Hall has everyone returning from that squad “We’re looking pretty

good,” Hall said. “I didn’t lose anyone from last year and I got a pretty good freshman group.

The team is trying to get everything organized and she is trying to get her team to play together. Hall said the biggest thing she wants to see from her team is for each girl to give her all.

Coach: Jessi Hall Seniors: Ashley Morris, f; Sarah Ferguson, c; Jaclyn Kingsley, g.

Juniors: Sammie Valestin, f; Sarah Maynor, g.

Sophomores: Tori Vaughn, g; Jessica Morris, f; MacKenzie Schutt, g, Brittany Noel, g.

Freshman: Emily Powles, g.

— Stile Smith

GEC BOYS: Check out what’s in store this year FROM PAGE 12 Simmons said he is trying to figure out what style of basketball fits his team.

“I’m going to do whatever it takes to win,” Simmons said. “Whether it’s an up-tempo type of game or if it’s to control the clock and get the selected shot you want. I’ve played both ways. I’m just trying to pick that way right now.”

Simmons said he has two seniors returning this season, along with a group of juniors to fill out the squad.

He said his biggest goal this season is to see improvement from the team.

Coach: Jim Simmons Seniors: Timmy Broadway, 5-10, g/f; Tevis Sandefur, 6-0, f Juniors: Adam Schuchardt, 5-9, g; Austin Ferrell, 5-10, g; Bruce Dunlap, 5-10, g; Kyle Wise, 58, g; Corey Rison, 6-2, f; Tyler Thompson, 5-10, g; Dallas Cockrum, 6-0, f/c; Deandre Barnes, 6-3, c Sophomores: J.D. Ward, 5-11, g; Freshmen: Jordan Worthen, 5-11, f; Douglas Ferguson, 6-3, c; Steve Buxton, 5-9, g; Zach Hicks, 5-8, g; Seth Simmons, 6-0, f

Thompsonville After winning just six games last season, Neal Mezo will lead a Thompsonville team heavy

on youth.

He said his starting lineup would likely consist of Brady Householder, a junior, with four sophomores.

“We’re young, very young,” Mezo said.

“They’re actually pretty intelligent basketball wise, so they pick up on things quite a bit.”

Coach: Neal Mezo Juniors: Brady Householder; Shane McRoy; Derek Harrison; Zach Baker; Travis Parkhill; Brendan Clark.

Sophomores: Jake Williams; Lance Darnell; Ryan Darnell; Quentin Henson; Keifer Payne; Tyler Parkhill; Tate Kerley.

Freshmen: Jarret Murphy; Kodey Costello.

— Stile Smith

Class Warfare

Trico, Herrin move up for 2011-12 season

BY SCOTT MEES THE SOUTHERN

The Illinois High School Association’s new classification and multiplier waiver policies went into effect for the 2011-12 school year. And, those changes will have a pronounced affect on two programs.

The organization thought the imbalanced number of schools in each class called for a change. The IHSA also waived the multiplier for non-boundary schools that haven’t had success in the past.

Trico would have been a heavy favorite to advance to the boys state tournament in Class 1A, but the Pioneers have been bumped up to 2A. The cutoff for Class 1A is now 275 students. Trico comes in at 283 for this school year, which makes it one of the smallest Class 2A schools in the state.

“We haven’t looked it that way as far was what would’ve happened in 1A, and our approach is still the same,” said Trico coach Shane Hawkins. “We’ll prepare all season and hopefully we’ll be playing our best basketball in February. It doesn’t really matter who is on the other side of the court.”

Hawkins is obviously being diplomatic and trying not to complain. But having to beat the likes of Harrisburg and Breese Central in a deep 2A postseason run is quite a bit different than trying to knock off Woodlawn or Crab Orchard in 1A. “I never envisioned the smallest class being down to 275 students,” Hawkins said. “I’ve been watching high school athletics all my life and I couldn’t believe it. I never saw this coming.”

The Herrin Tigers are in the same boat.

The team will move up from Class 2A to 3A this season in basketball. Irv Lukens, who coaches the Herrin boys, dealt with the issue as Herrin’s volleyball coach.

Lukens’ volleyball team won its Class 3A regional, and his basketball squad faces the same challenge.

“We were very surprised that this happened, and I didn’t even know it was in

THE SOUTHERN FILE PHOTO

Trico’s Chase Heins looks for the basket while being guarded by Carbondale’s Artemus Burnett at the SIOC/Carbondale Holiday Tournament in SIU Arena.

the works,” Lukens said. “If this is going to continue we’ll have to modify our schedule a little bit.”

Herrin, which has an enrollment of 694, now could face schools with up to 1,580 in the postseason. The Tigers, who play in the SIRR Ohio, will basically enter a South Seven Conference tournament in the regional with the likes of Carbondale, Marion and Mount Vernon.

“I don’t plan on going to the Belleville area or anything like that for regular season games, but who knows,” Lukens said.

“We already play Marion and Mount Vernon in the Pyramid Tournament, and we may have to try and add Carbondale to our regular season schedule in the future.”

Lukens does think his basketball team can compete at the 3A level, but he believes it could be really difficult.

“It will be exciting for sure, and we’ll just have to try to beat the team they put in front of us,” Lukens said. “It might become hard to win year in and year out.

When you have to play schools with potentially 1,000 more students your chances go down.”

However, both Herrin and especially Trico are close to dropping back down a class. So things could turn out differently from year to year depending on the size of each school’s incoming freshmen class.

“There are all the 3A private schools that have not had success and now they don’t have to use the multiplier,” Hawkins said. “That will throw a wrinkle in it every year based on how they do. You get a couple 3A or even 2A private schools that win and they can adjust it every year.” scott.mees@thesouthern.com / 618-351-5086

The Southern Illinoisan Friday, November 18, 2011 Page 15

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