Spring Sports 2015

SPORTS BLOOMING PRAIRIE | MEDFORD | NRHEG | OWATONNA | TRITON

`15

SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

COVERING:

BASEBALL SOFTBALL TRACK & FIELD GOLF BOYS TENNIS LACROSSE

Owatonna.com

PAGE 2

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 2, 2015

Contents Owatonna

Medford

Boys golf Page 3 Baseball Page 4 Softball Page 5 Girls la crosse Page 6 Boys la crosse Page 10 Boys tennis Page 7 Boys track page 18 Girls track Page 19 Girls golf Page 20

Softball Page 8 Baseball Page 9 Boys and girls track Page 17

Blooming Prairie

NRHEG

Boys and girls golf Page 10 Baseball Page 13 Softball Page 14 Boys and girls track Page 14

Baseball Page 11 Softball Page 11 Boys and girls golf Page 15 Boys and girls track Page 15

Triton Boys and girls track Page 16 Baseball Page 16 Softball Page 16 Gage Schuster OHS junior

2015 Spring Sports Preview A special project of the Owatonna People’s Press 135 W. Pearl St., Owatonna, MN 55060 PUBLISHER Ron Ensley ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Debbie Ensley MANAGING EDITOR Jeffrey Jackson SPORTS EDITOR Kaleb Roedel REPORTER Jon Weisbrod MEDIA SPECIALISTS Steve Arnold, Alisha Davidson, Betty Frost, Per Kvalsten, Jay Petsche, Jennifer Sorensen ADVERTISING DESIGN Lauren Barber, Nikkie Gilmore, Keeley Krebsbach, Jenine Kubista, Kelly Kubista COVER DESIGN Kate Townsend-Noet Spring Sports Preview 2015 is distributed to readers and subscribers of the Owatonna People’s Press at no additional charge.

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Thursday, April 2, 2015

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

PAGE 3

OWATONNA

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL BOYS GOLF

SCHEDULE April 14 vs. Mankato East, 2:30 p.m.

April 16 at Decorah Invite, 1 p.m.

April 17 at Litchfield Invite, 1 p.m.

April 18 at Willmar Invite, 9 a.m.

April 23 at Alexandria Invite, 9:30 a.m.

April 23 at Northfield triangular, 2 p.m.

April 27 at Byron Invite, 11 a.m.

April 28 vs. Rochester Century, Red Wing, 2:30 p.m.

April 30 at Faribault, 2:30 p.m.

May 6 at Lake City Invite, 2 p.m.

May 8 at Mankato West triangular, 2:30 p.m.

May 12 hosts Big 9 quad, 2:30 p.m.

May 16 hosts Invite, 10 a.m.

May 18 at Big 9 Meet (Faribault), 10 a.m.

May 21 at Brainerd Invite, 8:30 a.m.

Jones, OHS eye third-straight Big 9 crown When your No. 1 is arguably the No. 1 golfer in the state, you’re already in good shape.

Such is the case for the Owatonna boys golf team, which will be paced by standout senior Peter Jones, a signee with the University of Minnesota men’s golf team. The future Golden Gopher brings back a gaudy 72.7 average from last season — a campaign in which individually he took second in the conference, third in the section and seventh in the state. His best showing at state is a runnerup finish in 2012.

Needless to say, Jones will

get his share of individual wins.

However, if Owatonna hopes to defend its Big Nine Conference championship for the second straight season he will need help.

After all, OHS lost three of its top five from last year’s squad that went 18-1 in league play, including Ted Urch (who was routinely on Jones’ heels), Ben Konold and Jeffrey Johnson.

Not helping matters, with only 17 players signed up, numbers are slightly down. So the newcomers will be relied on to step up from their first strikes off the tee.

Joining Jones as returning

starters are junior Gage Schuster and sophomore Andrew Wall who bring back averages of 84.3 and 85.4, respectively. Others back with varsity experience are senior Cole Butler and junior Nick Brown.

Longtime coach Keith Bangs, entering his 34th season, said he expects Mankato East and Albert Lea to be Owatonna’s stiffest competition in the Big Nine. In Section 1AAA, Lakeville South, Lakeville North and defending champ Hastings will be the favorites. Last season, OHS finished fifth at the section meet.

Peter Jones OHS senior

NEED TO KNOW

Peter Jones— The five-time all-conference honoree will seek to cap his decorated career with about the only thing missing on his resume: a state title. Jones, who finished seventh at state last year and second two years ago, is arguably a favorite to finish his season on the Bunker Hills links once again.

Gage Schuster — The junior will be looking to keep on Jones’ heels this season to make for an ultraproductive 1-2 punch. He returns the team’s second-best average (84.3).

ROSTER Seniors: Peter Jones, Joe VanReeth, Ian Simon, Garrett Kruchten, Cole Butler. Juniors: Gage Schuster, Nick Brown. Sophomores: Andrew Wall, Derek Johnson, Jesse Swedin, Joey Howell, Mitchell Mayer, Jay Sullivan.

Freshmen: Mac Baumgartner, Spencer Steckelberg, Matthew Steel, Payton Terpstra, Cameron Ulrich, Payton Ulrich.

LAST SEASON

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PAGE 4

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 2, 2015

OWATONNA

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL Defending Big 9 champion Huskies reload for 2015 with high expectations Owatonna baseball coach Tate Cummins has been through this before, and he’ll go through it again.

Year-after-year, the Huskies always seem graduate a slew of talented players, but year-andyear, they find themselves contending for the Big Nine Conference crown.

This season should be no different.

“We continue to hold high standards and expectations for our team in the hopes of competing for a Big Nine and section championship,” Cummins said. “This will come down to our overall work ethic, ability to play as a team and our motivation.”

The heart of last season’s line-up won’t be coming back after graduation stripped the program of all-conference performers Carter McCauley, Luke Wanous and Riley Thompson as well as varsity cornerstones Andrew Beede and Owen Carlson.

But Cummins directs an entire program, not a singular team.

The veteran coach has amassed a 121-72 record in eight seasons at the helm and has built solid depth from top to bottom. The

junior varsity and VFW squads had successful campaigns in 2014 and contain several potentially top-level players.

Helping the varsity rookies along the way is a proven group of veterans with a variety of skill and experience.

Dexter Leer is at the top of that list.

In 2014, the senior shortstop earned all-conference honors after batting .400 with a teamhigh 24 runs atop the Huskies’ line-up. This year, Leer will BE asked to produce more runs than he scores, and he’s proven capable of doing so. Last year, he ended third on the team with 13 RBIs. Another key offensive piece coming back is outfielder Isaac Rocha, who batted .368 with eight RBIs last season.

Catcher Alec Holcomb had a tremendous summer with the VFW and will be inserted directly into the middle of the varsity batting order as a junior. Nick Medo — who played in 15 games as a junior — has proven to be a toplevel defensive player at second base and will look to improve his offensive numbers.

In the outfield, newcomer Blake Westphal and senior Trey

Fails will likely play center field and right field, respectively.

Westphal is a speedy lefty who anchored the lead-off spot for the VFW last summer.

Isaac Rocha On the mound, Cummins will OHS senior lean on three arms to balance the top of the rotation. Rocha earned all-conference honorable mention consideration in 2014 after pitching 22 innings and finishing with a microscopic 0.96 ERA and a perfect 3-0 record.

Fails and Holcomb both touch near 80 MPH on the radar gun NEED TO KNOW and have logged extended innings Dexter Leer — The steady shortstop was a key component to last year’s conference championship team during the summer. at the top of the line-up. This year, Leer may be shifted to a run-producing role after batting exactly .400 Newcomers Alex Emanuel- with 13 RBIs and five doubles in 2014.

Isaac Rocha — The senior rightly was a perfect 3-0 with a 0.96 ERA last year, but will be asked to anchor son and Clay Leidall will provide depth to the pitching staff and will the rotation instead of compliment it this season. start on occasion.

ROSTER Though Cummins believes his team will be in the mix to defend Seniors: Trey Fails, Zac Karsten, Dexter Leer, Joey Smith, Nick Medo, Isaac Rocha, Grant Wehsler, Cam Jenson.

Eli Havelka, Clay Leidall, Sam Hylle, Noah Scheid, Brady Fisher, Blake Westphal, Cody McCartney, Rylee their conference title, Rochester Juniors: Muhr, Alec Holcomb, Jacob Mundale, Eric Benson, Alex Emanuelson.

Century, Mankato West, Northfield, Mayo and John Marshall all SCHEDULE COACHSPEAK bring back loads of talent while April 7 vs. Rochester Century, 5 April 25 at Minnetonka tourney, “We will be playing for one Red Wing owns the top player in p.m.

9 a.m. run an inning this year by staythe state in Ty Buck.

April 9 at Rochester JM, 5 p.m.

April 27 vs. Rochester JM, 5 p.m. ing aggressive on the base-paths, “Our goal for the season is April 11 vs. Northfield, noon April 28 at Northfield, 5 p.m. bunting and putting pressure on to remain positive and focus on April 14 at Faribault, 5 p.m.

April 30 vs. Faribault, 5 p.m. the opposing defense.”

April 16 vs.

Albert Lea, 5 p.m.

May 5 at Albert Lea, 5 p.m. getting better every day,” Cum— OHS coach Tate Cummins April 18 at Mankato East (DH), 2 May 7 vs.

Mankato West, 4 p.m. mins said. “This year’s team will p.m.

May 8 vs.

St. Cloud Apollo, 5 p.m. be much different than 2014 LAST SEASON April 21 at Red Wing, 5 p.m.

May 12 vs. Austin, 5 p.m. where we scored eight runs per April 23 vs. Rochester Mayo, 5 p.m.

May 14 at Winona, 5 p.m.

16-6 overall, 15-3 Big Nine (cogame.”

April 24 vs. Chanhassen, 5 p.m.

May 15 vs. Rocori, 7:30 p.m. champions)

“

Good Luck Huskies!

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Thursday, April 2, 2015

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

PAGE 5

OWATONNA Huskies look to make big strides OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

After sustaining some natural growing pains taking over the Owatonna softball program last spring, head coach Brian Pilcher hopes to take the Huskies to the next level in 2015. OHS ended 7-16 in Pilcher’s rookie campaign and took a quick exit from the playoffs after losing to Hastings in the Section 1AAA Tournament.

Pilcher nearly generated double-digit wins in 2014 despite playing with an inexperienced roster. Now, those young players have a full season under their belts and could generate a solid core of players to make a run at

a top spot in the Big Nine Conference.

“I really believe we can finish in the top four of the Big Nine,” Pilcher said. “I believe we can go deep in the sections but the Lakeville schools (South and North) will be a tough road to state.”

Kayla Johnson spearheads the group of returning players after leading OHS with a .425 batting average last year. She will anchor the outfield in center and be asked to produce a bulk of the team’s runs in the middle of the batting order.

Two other key positions that

SCHEDULE

April 7 at Rochester Century, 5 p.m.

April 9 vs. Rochester JM, 5 p.m.

April 11 at Northfield, noon April 14 vs. Faribault, 5 p.m.

April 16 at Albert Lea, 5 p.m.

April 21 vs. Red Wing, 5 p.m.

April 23 at Rochester Mayo, 5 p.m.

April 25 vs. Mankato East (doubleheader), 2 p.m.

April 28 vs. Northfield, 5 p.m.

April 30 at Faribault, 5 p.m.

May 5 vs. Albert Lea, 5 p.m.

May 7 at Mankato West (doubleheader), 4 p.m.

May 8 vs. Farmington, 5 p.m.

May 12 at Austin, 5 p.m.

May 14 vs. Winona, 5 p.m.

LAST SEASON

7-16 overall, 3-11 Big Nine Conference

appear to be solidified are Rachel Williamson at shortstop and Millie Wanous at catcher.

Perhaps the most important spot on the field — pitcher — will be handed to freshman Tiana Blazek.

Kirsten Pumper, who was a regular starter in 2014, and Abby Bendorf will round out the outfield at left and right, respectively.

If the Huskies make some noise in the conference and earn a decent seed for the postseason, it’s going to be a tall task to get past defending state champion Lakeville South in the section tournament.

“

Tiana Blazek OHS freshman

NEED TO KNOW

Kayla Johnson — After breaking out and batting a team-best .425 in 2014, Johnson will be asked to duplicate her production as a junior in 2015. She will play center field and bat in the middle of the order.

Rachel Williamson — The junior returned at the end of the basketball season following a knee injury she sustained in the previous summer, so it’s unclear if she will be 100 percent when the season opens. If she is, the Huskies have one of the best shortstops in the Big Nine.

COACHSPEAK

“We have a very fast team and can also hit for power. If the bats can put the ball in the field of play to put pressure on the defense, then we have a good chance of scoring more runs this year. We are going to run a lot more this year to put pressure on the defense. Defensively, we are going to be more aggressive on throwing out runners on the base paths.”

— OHS coach Brian Pilcher

ROSTER Rachel Williamson OHS junior

Seniors: Abby Bendorf, Jordan Kubista. Juniors: Kayla Johnson, Kirsten Pumper, Millie Wanous, Rachel Williamson. Sophomores: Braelyn Johnson, Ellie Rohman.

Freshmen: Tiana Blazek, Riley Sheehy, Jamie Davison, Alexa Sommers.

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OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 2, 2015

OWATONNA

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS L ACROSSE

Krista Kniefel-led Huskies primed to take next step It’s clear, the next step for the Owatonna girls lacrosse team is qualifying for the state tournament.

This could be the year.

After winning 24 of its 30 games against Big Nine Conference teams over the last six seasons, Owatonna coach Bill Bernard has no doubt put the Huskies on the map in southern Minnesota.

But as well as they have played against programs of similar status, OHS has yet to qualify for state and lost 16-6 in the second round of the playoffs to Farmington of the South Suburban Conference last year.

If Owatonna hopes to take the next step in 2015, Krista Kniefel

will no doubt play a huge part. In 2014, the senior put together one of the most productive offensive campaigns of any player in Minnesota, finishing fifth in the state with 59 goals.

It’s on defense, though, that the Huskies bring back the bulk of their letter winners. Anchoring the back end of the unit is goalie Kacy Borwege — who stopped 64 percent of the shots she faced in 2014. That save-percentage put her in the top three in the state.

Captain Carlee Malueg also returns and is considered the “leader” of the unit according to Bernard. Joining Malueg in front of Borwege is three-year starter Gabi Zeman, Olivia Oland, Katie

Johnson, Emma Smith and Elizabeth Louks.

Alongside Krista Kniefel, Laura Bloomenrader will play attack after scoring nine goals and collecting one assist last year.

At midfield, captain Kayla Kniefel, Meghan Schuler, Meghan Rethemeier return after earning letters in 2014 while Katie Skalicky, Becca Sedivy and Ari Olson will rotate between Attack and Midfield.

In all, the Huskies lose three players with a combined 50 goals.

“We graduated a number of long-time starters,” Bernard said.

“We expect a number of ‘hungry Huskies’ to take over those minutes and take those shots that are there to be taken.”

SCHEDULE

April 14 at Hastings, 7 p.m.

April 16 at Rochester Mayo, 7:30 p.m.

April 18 vs. Northfield, 3 p.m.

April 23 at Rochester Century, 7:30 p.m.

April 25 at Bloomington Kennedy, 2 p.m.

April 30 at Rochester JM, 7:30 p.m.

May 2 vs. Farmington, 4:30 p.m.

May 5 vs. Rochester Mayo, 7 p.m.

May 12 at Northfield, 6 p.m.

May 14 vs. Rochester Century, 8 p.m.

May 16 at Prior Lake, 4:30 p.m.

May 18 vs. Rochester JM, 7 p.m.

May 21 vs. Eagan, 7 p.m.

LAST SEASON

Krista Kniefel OHS senior

“

NEED TO KNOW

Krista Kniefel — Last season, Owatonna’s second, third and fourthleading scorers netted 50 goals. Kniefel scored 59 by herself. She’s is the region’s unquestioned top offensive threat and one of the best players at her position in the state.

Kacy Borwege — The senior goal stopper sent back 64 percent of the shots she faced in 2014.

COACHSPEAK

“Our main strength is depth.

We will have girls starting the season on Junior Varsity that could have started at the varsity level when we started the program. Our players have been playing longer by starting lacrosse at a younger age and making commitments to get better in the offseason.”

— OHS coach Bill Bernard

ROSTER Seniors: Kayla Kniefel, Krista Kniefel, Kacy Borwege, Gabi Zeman, Carlee Malueg, Olivia Oland, Katie Johnson, Elizabeth Louks.

Juniors: Laura Bloomenrader, Emma Smith, Meghan Schuler, Katie Skalicky, Becca Sedivy, Meghan Rethemeier, Ari Olson.

11-4 overall, 4-1 against Big Nine Conference teams, 1-1 in Section 1A postseason

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OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

PAGE 7

OWATONNA

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TENNIS

Huskies seek strength at doubles rotation heading into season The good news for the Owatonna tennis team: The singles ladder will be soaking with experience.

The bad news: The doubles combinations will be a work in progress.

The Huskies ended 7-2 in the competitive Big Nine Conference last season and managed to pull off and impressive 7-0 win over Farmington in the opening round of the playoffs before bowing out to Lakeville South, 5-2, in the second round.

If OHS hopes to duplicate its success in 2015, its first order of business will be to piece together a respectable doubles rotation as soon as possible.

Eden Mrozek, Ethan Schulz, Noah Velasquez, Derek Thada, Michael Duerr and Tim Starman all return after anchoring the singles portion of the squad in 2014, and some may be asked to pair up in order to balance the line-ups.

Mrozek, though, won’t be one of them. After gaining valuable experience as an eighth-grader two years ago, the sophomore blossomed into the Huskies’ unquestioned top singles player in 2014 and will no doubt be atop the ladder once again this year.

Schulz also should stay put and help anchor the team at No. 2 singles.

The remaining rotation is still up in the air as long-time coach

Curt Matejcek expects to take a few lumps early on.

“My hope is we can get our new players comfortable in their roles as soon as possible,” he said.

“It may be a little rough at the start of the season, but hopefully we will continue to get better as the season progresses.”

Other letter winners from 2014 who could remain on varsity for most of the season are Jack Redman, Mark Hanson and Dan Keller.

As always, Rochester Mayo remains the prohibitive favorites to win the Big Nine Conference title while newcomers Northfield and Red Wing add depth and talent to the league.

Ethan Schulz OHS senior

“

“If we win some of the close matches maybe (we could finish) fourth or fifth (in the conference). We will be inexperienced in doubles, but have some pretty athletic kids who will be vying for those spots.”

— OHS coach Curt Matejcek

SCHEDULE April 7 vs. Winona, 4:15 p.m.

April 11 at Rochester JM triangular, 9 a.m.

April 16 vs. Faribault, 4:30 p.m.

April 18 vs. Mankato West triangular, 9 a.m.

April 21 vs. Northfield, 4:30 p.m.

April 23 at Albert Lea, 4:30 p.m.

April 25 at Lakeville South tournament, 9 a.m.

April 28 at Rochester Century, 4:30 p.m.

April 30 vs. Austin, 4:30 p.m.

May 2 at Cretin-Derham triangular, 10 a.m.

May 4 vs. Waseca, 4 p.m.

May 5 at Mankato East, 4:30 p.m.

May 7 at Rochester Mayo, 4:30 p.m.

May 9 at Big 9 Meet (Rochester), 9 a.m.

LAST SEASON

9-7 overall, 7-2 Big Nine Conefrence

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ROSTER Seniors: Michael Duerr, Ethan Schulz, Tim Starman. Juniors: Mark Hanson, Jack Redman, Noah Velasquez. Sophomores: Daniel Keller, Eden Mrozek, Derek Thada.

NEED TO KNOW

Eden Mrozek and Ethan Schulz — These two will anchor the top of the singles ladder for the Huskies after stepping into their own in 2014. The next level for both players will be to contend with the truly elite players in the Big Nine.

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OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 2, 2015

MEDFORD

MEDFORD HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

Tigers look to climb up league ladder Pitching will undoubtedly be the biggest question mark for the Medford softball team.

The Tigers not only lost its ace pitcher, Brittany Kossel, but also its backup pitcher, Sam Snyder, to graduation.

But, besides those two, Medford brings just about everybody back, led by a crop of seven seniors.

Perhaps the most significant returner is senior Rachel Boudreau who has a good shot to take over the starting pitcher role on opening day. Boudreau filled in as a reliever in the circle last season when she wasn’t manning center field. The other pitcher on staff is newcomer Madi Krenske, a freshman.

Joining Boudreau as returning starters are Aly Noble (third base); Steph Choudek (infield); Brittney Lemke (second base); Ashley Schauer (catcher); Katie Chester (outfield) and Mya Gasner (DH/outfield).

That group helped Medford take a small step forward last

Aly Noble Medford senior

Langen said she hopes that the team is able to put its imprint on the season early.

“I think we can improve on our nonconference success last year, and if we bring that to conference games, we should be OK,” she said.

The teams to beat in the Gopher Conference are reigning champs Randolph, as well as NRHEG, Maple River and Blooming Prairie.

season, improving its record to 5-10, including a playoff win.

The Tigers edged GlenvilleEmmons 9-8 in the Section 1A first round. A season prior, the Tigers won just two games.

Newcomers to this year’s team include Taylor Hooks-Witter (outfield), Cierra Duchene (utility), Cierra Green (catcher), Kori Dodge (first base) and Madi Krenske (pitcher/outfielder).

Eighth-year coach Julie Van-

SCHEDULE April 2 at Maple River, 5 p.m.

April 6 vs. USC, 5 p.m.

April 9 at Faribault BA, 5 p.m.

April 13 at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m.

April 16 at St. Clair, 4:30 p.m.

April 17 at Martin Luther, 4:30 p.m.

April 20 vs. NRHEG, 5 p.m.

April 23 vs. WEM, 5 p.m.

April 24 at JWP, 4:30 p.m.

April 28 at Lyle-Pacelli, 4:30 p.m.

April 30 vs. Faribault BA, 5 p.m.

May 4 vs. Glenville-Emmons, 5 p.m.

May 5 at USC, 5 p.m.

May 7 vs. Randolph, 5 p.m.

May 9 at PEM, 10 a.m.

May 11 at NRHEG, 5 p.m.

May 14 at WEM, 5 p.m.

LAST SEASON

5-10 overall, 1-7 Gopher Conference

ROSTER Seniors: Aly Noble, Ashley Schauer, Brittney Lemke, Katie Chester, Mya Gasner, Rachel Boudreau, Steph Choudek.

Juniors: Cierra Duchene, Cierra Green, Taylor Hooks-Witter.

Sophmore: Kori Dodge. Freshman: Madie Krenske.

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NEED TO KNOW

Rachel Boudreau — As the only returning starter with significant pitching experience, the senior will play a big role in the Tigers’ success this season.

“

COACHSPEAK

“We return most of our players so we will have a solid care who have experience from last year.

We hope to continue to build on what we started last year.”

— Medford coach Julie VanLangen

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Thursday, April 2, 2015

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

PAGE 9

MEDFORD

MEDFORD HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL Tigers bring bevy of talent back in 2015 Sure, the Medford baseball team lost some key pieces to last season’s team, but the players they have coming back are talented.

Really talented.

Highlighting the list of returning letter winners is NCAA Division II signee AJ Chappuis.

In 2014, the coach’s son batted an impressive .415 with eight doubles, one homer and 25 RBIs. The senior — who pitches and plays the outfield and shortstop — has committed to play at the Univer-

“

sity of Sioux Falls next season and will sign in National Letter of Intent in April.

Surrounding Chappuis in the line-up will be a mixture of veterans including Nick VonRuden, Nick Meixner, Wyatt Volkmann, Cody Rehman and Tyler Stenzel.

After batting .285 last season VonRuden will play the outfield and first base while all-conference honorable mention member Meixner will pitch and play sev-

COACHSPEAK

“This year’s team is just a group of guys that love to play the game of baseball. We focus on all aspects of being a student-athlete. We look to control the things we can control, and how we respond to the things we cannot control (good and bad). Unselfish, team first approach with these players.”

— Medford coach Jon Chappuis

SCHEDULE April 2 at Maple River, 5 p.m.

April 6 vs. USC, 5 p.m.

April 9 vs. Faribault BA, 5 p.m.

April 13 at Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m.

April 16 at Glenville-Emmons, 5 p.m.

April 18 at Minneota, TBD April 20 vs. NRHEG, 5 p.m.

April 23 at WEM, 5 p.m.

April 27 vs. Maple River, 5 p.m.

April 28 at USC, 5 p.m.

April 30 at Faribault BA, 5 p.m.

May 4 vs. Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m.

May 5 vs. Triton, 4:30 p.m.

May 7 vs. Randolph, 5 p.m.

May 9 vs. Schaeffer (12:30 p.m.), Bethany (3 p.m.)

May 11 at NRHEG, 5 p.m.

May 14 vs. WEM, 5 p.m.

May 15 at Cleveland, 4:30 p.m.

AJ Chappuis Medford senior

eral positions. In 2014, Meixner hit .352 with one home run while accounting for three of the Tigers’ seven games on the mound with a 3.44 ERA. Head coach Jon Chappuis says he has a “good core” of young players coming up through the system that will help fill in several spots on the varsity team in 2015.

In all, Medford must replace five letter winners and three quarters of its infield.

LAST SEASON

7-8 overall, 3-4 Gopher Conference

ROSTER Seniors: AJ Chappuis, Nicky VonRuden. Juniors: Cody Rehman, Tyler Stenzel, Wyatt Volkmann, Nicholas Meixner. Sophomores: Richard Iverson, Jon O’Daffer. Freshmen: Javis VonRuden, Ian Gillis, Alex Gengler, Ben Sutcliffe, Cael Kavitz, Nathan Meixner, Dominic Panos, Ben Finholdt, Cole Volkmann.

NEED TO KNOW

AJ Chappuis — This do-it-all senior has been the team’s top offensive player since his sophomore season and will play baseball next season at NCAA Division II Sioux Falls. He hit well over .400 last season and will once again be asked to stabilize the pitching rotation.

Nick Meixner — Last season, Meixner finished with a team-best 3-3 record on the mound with a 3.45 ERA, he’s no slouch at the plate too, batting .352.

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PAGE 10

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 2, 2015

OWATONNA BLOOMING PRAIRIE

BLOOMING PRAIRIE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS/GIRLS GOLF Huskies full of fresh faces, depth this spring Blossoms low on numbers, high on talent OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL BOYS L ACROSSE

This is were depth comes in handy.

After graduating its entire starting line-up from a season ago, the Owatonna boys lacrosse team will be asking several fresh faces to step in and fill the extensive voids in the frontline rotation.

“We have a large group of freshman players on JV and varsity for us this year due to the large graduating class,” OHS coach Scott Seykora said. “We fully expect them to contribute to the team. There is a lot of talent in this young group and it will be

“

COACHSPEAK

“We will have great leadership this year with some of the returning players and a group of underclassmen that have been playing very well together at the younger levels. I expect a lot of growth from the beginning of the season to the end of the season.”

— OHS coach Scott Seykora

exciting to see how it all comes together.”

In all, the Huskies must replace six players who tallied 10-plus goals in 2014, including one of the programs most decorated offensive players of all time, Michael Schmitz. As a senior, Schmitz netted 53 goals and 17 assists. Also departed are Pete Hanson and Jordan Klein, who combined for 61 goals in 2014.

No player on the current roster scored more than three times a season ago, but that doesn’t mean OHS will be completely inexpe-

SCHEDULE

rienced. Seykora has 11 upperclassmen — seven of whom are seniors — to mold a solid core.

Senior captain Nate Clark collected three assists last year while classmate — and fellow captain — Ben Callen netted three goals.

Senior Seth Huseby (midfield) and junior defender Austin Abbas round-out the group of captains while sophomore John Swenson is the only other player on the roster to find the back of the net last year.

Joel Jandt expects to replace full-time starter Scott Swenson as goalie.

NEED TO KNOW Nate Clark — This co-cap-

April 11 at Hopkins, 1 p.m. tain netted three assists last year April 17 at Chaska, 7 p.m. and will be asked to step in as April 18 vs. Hastings, 7:30 p.m. one of the team’s primary offenApril 21 at Simley, 7 p.m. sive weapons at Attack.

April 23 vs. St. Paul Central, 6 Joel Jandt — After sitting p.m.

Scott Swenson started, and finApril 25 at Coon Rapids, 2:30 ished, every game last season, p.m.

April 28 at Northfield, 6 p.m.

Jandt will be as fresh as they April 30 vs. Rochester JM, 7 come in front of the net. Swenp.m. son was 10-4 in 2014.

May 5 at Rochester Mayo, 7:30 ROSTER p.m.

Seniors: Ben Callen, Nate Clark, May 7 vs. Shattuck St. Mary’s, Ethan Cords, Jacob Harrison, Seth LAST SEASON 7 p.m.

Huseby, Daniel Prissel, Christian Reese. Juniors: Aaron Tryhus, Austin May 14 vs. Rochester Century, 10-4 overall, 0-1 in Section 1A Abbas, Joel Jandt, Zachary Korpi.

6 p.m. playoffs, 3-2 Big Nine Sophomores: RJ Pfieffer, Logan May 16 vs. Robbinsdale Cooper, Ringhofer, John Swenson. Fresh11:30 a.m. men: Ryan Johnson, Tyler Johnson, May 22 vs. Park, 7 p.m.

Josh Nelson, Nathan Smith, Weston Wilson.

Here’s the good news for the Blooming Prairie golf teams: they have two of the best golfers in the conference and section in Tommy Braaten and Taylor Christianson.

The bad news: between boys and girls they only have six varsity candidates total.

On the boys side, the sophomore Braaten brings back an 18-hole average of 86, which ranked second on the team last season behind graduate Victor Peterson.

A year ago Braaten made a splash as a freshman, finishing 14th in the Class A state tourna-

“

COACHSPEAK

“I think Tommy [Braaten] and Taylor [Christianson] can win the conference. As a team, it’s hard to win when you have such low numbers. I also think they are top contenders in the section. Both of their goals is to go to state again, and they have a great shot at it.”

— BP coach Erik Vigeland

ROSTER Girls: Alexa Rudlong (senior), Taylor Christianson (sophomore), Sabrina Stanley (freshman).

Boys: Brody Carlson (junior), Jon Hatch (junior), Tommy Braaten (sophomore).

LAST SEASON

BP girls won the Big Nine Conference title; BP boys finished 3rd

We will keep you in the game

ment with a two-day total of 163.

(Peterson, also a state-qualifier, took 31st).

Making up the rest of the team are juniors Jon Hatch and Brody Carlson.

For the girls, Christianson, also a sophomore, returns with state experience under her belt, as well. She tied for 40th at the Class A tournament in her freshman campaign. Last season she carded a team-best average of 96.

Filling out the rest of the lineup are senior Alexa Rudlong and freshman Sabrina Stanley.

SCHEDULE BOYS April 13 at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m.

April 16 at invite (Willow Creek), noon April 18 hosts invite, 9 a.m.

April 21 at Triton, 4 p.m.

April 23 at Gopher invite (Oak View), 4:30 p.m.

April 27 hosts Gopher invite 4:30 p.m.

April 28 at Triton Invite, 1:30 p.m.

May 7 at Faribault BA, 4:30 p.m.

May 14 at Big 9 Meet (Waseca), 10 a.m.

GIRLS April 7 at Rochester JM Invite, noon April 16 at Gopher invite (Oak View), 4:30 p.m.

April 21 at Triton, 4 p.m.

April 23 at Gopher invite, 4:30 p.m.

April 28 at Triton Invite, 1:30 p.m.

April 30 at NRHEG Invite, 4:30 p.m.

May 4 at Triton, 1:30 p.m.

May 7 at Faribault BA, 4:30 p.m.

May 8 hosts Gopher invite, 4:30 p.m.

May 14 at Gopher Meet (Waseca), 10 a.m.

Awesome Blossoms coach Erik Vigeland, who is in his 15th season, said United South Central is the favorite on both sides to win the conference. Last season, the BP girls won the league crown and the boys finished third. Lewiston/ Altura (boys) and Fillmore Central (girls) are the reigning Section 1A champions.

Despite the low numbers, Vigeland is encouraged by the enthusiasm displayed by those teeing off.

“We have very dedicated golfers; they love being on the course,” Vigeland said.

NEED TO KNOW

Tommy Braaten — As a freshman, Braaten saved his best for last, swinging to 14th at the Class A state meet with a 163, highlighted by a day-two best 39 on the front-nine. And he’s no stranger to performing under pressure as he qualified for state by winning a four-way playoff at sections.

Taylor Christianson — Christianson narrowly made the state cut a season ago, finishing fifth in the section. This year, the sophomore very well may finish atop the Section 1A leaderboard.

Her average of 96 led the team last year.

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OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

NRHEG

PAGE 11

NRHEG

NRHEG HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

NRHEG HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL Panthers have big holes to fill this season Panthers eye move up Gopher standings

While replacing Jade Schultz will not be easy, the Panthers have a nice mix of upperclassmen as well as first-year players on the team.

Last season was one of the Panthers’ best in the past couple of years with its 14-8 record.

NRHEG finished second in the conference and is primed to improve on that this season.

Offense is where the Panthers will look to keep the team in games. With senior Anna Stork and sophomore Kayley Camerer in the lineup, NRHEG should have no problem scoring runs this year.

According to first-year coach Coy Hupfeld, how the team performs on the mound as well as in the field is the key to success for the Panthers.

“We expect to be able to score

Grace Johns NRHEG sophomore

runs,” said Hupfeld. “And if our pitchers and defense step up to the challenge, we could be a very impressive ball club.”

Hupfeld added that many players on the team are in fall and winter sports and their ath-

ROSTER Seniors: Jill Peterson, Anna Stork, Alyssa Esplan, Kelli Harrington, Ryann Hagen, Jade Peterson. Juniors: Torrie Stencel, Anna Lundberg.

Sophomores: Rachel Collins, Grace Johns, Natalie Aaseth, Kayley Camerer.

leticism has shown in the first few weeks of practice.

Blooming Prairie looks to remain at the top of the conference, and when the Panthers enter section play, Maple River should be one of the favorites.

SCHEDULE LAST SEASON

14-8 overall; 2nd in the Gopher Conference

NEED TO KNOW

Anna Stork — The all-conference senior leader is back to anchor the team defensively at first base. Stork, winner of the team’s Golden Bat award last season, hit over .430 for the second season in a row and drove in 20 runs on the season.

Kayley Camerer — Another all-conference player, Camerer leads the team defensively playing the most important position at shortstop.

The sophomore hit .305 last season with two home runs.

April 6 at Bethlehem Academy April 9 vs. Blooming Prairie April 13 vs. WEM April 16 vs. Lake Crystal-Wellcome Memorial April 17 at Blue Earth Area April 20 at Medford April 25 hosts NRHEG Tournament May 1 vs. St. Clair May 5 at WEM May 7 vs. Maple River May 9 at Hayfield Invitational May 11 vs. Medford May 14 at Blooming Prairie May 15 vs. Alden-Conger

NRHEG’s baseball team is again going through changes this year. After Pat Churchill filled in as the coach last year, Drew Paukert takes the reigns as coach in his first year.

Paukert inherits a Panthers squad that went 4-10 last year.

But with five returning starters, NRHEG has the opportunity to improve and be competitive in the Gopher Conference.

Although two of the team’s top players graduated, Paukert expects a number of quality young talent to fill roles in their first year with the team. Offense was at a premium for the Panthers last season, which makes defense and pitching all the more important.

The Panthers should field a strong defense this year, especially with seniors Trevor Tracy (shortstop) and Dakota Thiele (second baseman) up the middle

ROSTER Seniors: Grant Kyllo, Dillon Kubiatowicz, Forest Wright, Jet Wayne, Trevor Tracy, Andy Shutrop, Matt Jensen, Dakota Thiele, Spencer Tollefson. Juniors: Trai Wicks, Dempsey Tucker, John Rubley.

Dakota Thiele NRHEG senior

and the rotation looks to improve from last year as well. Leading the pitching staff will be senior Matt Jensen, who was second on the team in innings pitched and strikeouts last season. His talents don’t stop at the mound either as the senior hit .302 last year which was good for fifth on the team.

SCHEDULE April 6 at Faribault Academies April 9 at USC April 10 vs. JWP April 13 vs. WEM April 16 vs. Maple River April 20 at Medford April 21 vs. Zumbrota-Mazeppa April 23 at Blooming Prairie April 28 vs. Bethlehem Academy

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Trevor Tracy — The all-conference selection from last year is vital to the Panthers’ success. A strong all-around athlete, Tracy hit .306 last year and his ability at shortstop is big for the Panthers up the middle.

This year, Tracy will be counted on as the team’s ace on the mound.

Dakota Thiele — Along with Tracy, Thiele is part of a strong Panthers defense in the middle at second base. The senior earned honorable mention last year and led the team with a .341 average last year.

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“If we can find ways to score runs and get timely hits when we need to, we should be a competitive team this year,” Paukert said.

Expect to see similar names at the top of the conference with Faribault Academies and United South Central bringing back strong teams from last year.

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OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

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PAGE 13

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

BLOOMING PRAIRIE HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

Blossoms focused on development When a team wins just two games and loses its top offensive player and two best pitchers, expectations need to be tempered entering the new season.

For Blooming Prairie baseball coach Matt Kittelson, it’s all about development.

“Our goal each day is just be to be better than we were yesterday,” he said. “We have a lot of talent on this team; however, we have little depth. We will need some young players to fill important roles.”

One of the top returning players that comes back for his senior season is future Winona State

“

COACHSPEAK

“... we have the majority of our players coming back with 2-3 years of varsity experience under their belts. Our biggest weakness is our lack of depth as we have only 17 players out in grades 9-12. We also graduated our entire starting outfield from last season.”

— BP coach Matt Kittelson

Scott Romeo BP senior

quarterback John Rumpza. The tall righty will once again pitch and play first base after batting .270 with one home run and seven RBIs in 2014.

Sam Swenson will join Rumpza on the infield at second base or shortstop after hitting well above .300 with 12 total hits last year. He will also pitch.

Scott Romeo will be the steady presence behind the plate for the Blossoms once again and will look to improve upon his respectable .270 batting average. In 2014, the senior also led the team in doubles.

Junior third baseman Riley

Olson — who hit .250 with a team-high 13 walks in 2014 — will likely find himself at the top of the batting order and in the John Rumpza BP senior middle of the pitching rotation.

Two others that will no doubt be asked to see increased playing time are junior Ethan Strunk and sophomore Connor Getchell. The pair combined to play in just 11 games in 2014.

Camden Heimerman (catchNEED TO KNOW er, outfield), Ethan Arett (middle John Rumpza — The strong 6-6 righty will likely be asked to pitch against BP’s top opponents while infield), Lucas Noble (outfield, anchoring the middle of the batting order. In 2014, he hit .270 with seven RBIs and one home run. He also middle infield), Brad Staska (in- led the team in strikeouts on the mound. field) will see their first varsity Scott Romeo — Playing perhaps the most important position on the diamond, Romeo’s experience will innings in 2015. All are under- be invaluable. The senior hit .270 in 2014 and led the team with three doubles. classmen.

SCHEDULE April 2 vs. Faribault BA, 5 p.m.

April 9 at Maple River, 5 p.m.

April 13 vs. Medford, 5 p.m.

April 14 at Southland, 5 p.m.

April 16 vs. USC, 5 p.m.

April 18 at Lyle-Pacelli, 2 p.m.

April 20 at WEM, 6:30 p.m.

April 21 vs. Triton, 4:30 p.m.

April 23 vs. NRHEG, 5 p.m.

April 24 vs. Goodhue, 5 p.m.

April 27 at Faribault BA, 5 p.m.

April 28 vs. Randolph, 5 p.m.

April 30 vs. Maple River, 5 p.m.

May 4 at Medford, 5 p.m.

May 5 at Hayfield, 4 p.m.

May 7 at USC, 5 p.m.

May 8 at Mankato Loyola, 5 p.m.

May 12 vs. WEM, 5 p.m.

May 14 at NRHEG, 5 p.m.

May 15 at Alden-Conger, 5 p.m.

ROSTER

Seniors: John Rumpza, Scott Romeo, Sam Swenson. Juniors: Riley Olson, Ethan Strunk. Sophomores: Camden Heimerman, Luke De La Cruz, Connor Getchell. Freshmen: Lucas Noble, Brad Staska, Ethan Arett, Nick Thompson, Max Romeo, Jeremy Hocking, Jack Abbe, Mitchell Oswald, Jacob Gwilt.

LAST SEASON

2-12 overall, 1-7 Gopher Conference

PAGE 14

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 2, 2015

BLOOMING PRAIRIE BLOOMING PRAIRIE

BLOOMING PRAIRIE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS/GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD

BLOOMING PRAIRIE HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

Blossoms to hang hats on defense Awesome Blossoms boys, girls shooting for A year removed from being crowned state champions, the Blooming Prairie softball team took its lumps in 2014 on the way to a 10-10 record.

With a strong core of veterans in place, the Awesome Blossoms should be back to playing above .500 ball this spring. Sure, BP graduated six seniors, including their offensive and defensive leader Sydney Heiber, but they return a slew of experienced playmakers.

Atop the list are senior captains Tessa Ivers (catcher) and Madison Worke (first base/shortstop). Both players were a part of the Blossoms’ state title team two years ago and will be asked to “lead a young, but talented team,” according to BP coach Ali Mach, who enters her 12th season at the helm.

According to Mach, defense is what the Blossoms hope to hang their hats on this spring.

“We want to be a more consistent defensive team this spring while also putting more runs across the plate,” Mach said. “We put a tremendous amount of pressure on our pitching last spring and we hope to change that up.”

top half of Gopher Conference this spring

Madison Worke BP senior

Helping matters, sophomore Elly Strunk will reprise her role as the ace in the circle, and sophomore Bria Baldwin returns as the anchor in the outfield. Others bringing back varsity experience are juniors Abby Wayne and Kalyn Naatz.

An area of concern for Mach

NEED TO KNOW

Tessa Ivers — The senior catcher has been one of the Blossoms’ top producers at the plate throughout her career. The team captain has all-conference, allsection and all-state accolades on her resume.

Elly Strunk — In her debut as BP’s starter in the circle last spring, Strunk steadily improved en route to an 8-7 record. With a year under her belt, look for a more comfortable Strunk to be a force for the Blossoms.

is the Blossoms’ lack of depth as the Blossoms have just 14 players in grades 9-12. She’s hoping they can make up for it with polished, versatile ballplayers.

“Our goal at the beginning of the season is to develop players who are capable of playing multiple roles for the team,” Mach said.

SCHEDULE April 2 vs. Faribault BA, 4:30 p.m.

April 9 at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m.

April 10 at Byron, 5 p.m.

April 13 vs. Medford, 4:30 p.m.

April 16 at Southland, 4:30 p.m.

April 20 at WEM, 4:30 p.m.

April 24 at Austin, 4 p.m.

April 28 at Randolph, 4:30 p.m.

April 30 at Maple River, 4:30 p.m.

May 4 vs. Triton, 4:30 p.m.

May 5 at Pine Island, 5 p.m.

May 7 vs. USC, 4:30 p.m.

May 8 vs. Mankato Loyola, 5 p.m.

May 9 vs. Waseca, TBD, 9 a.m.

May 12 at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 4:30 p.m.

May 14 vs. NRHEG, 4:30 p.m.

SCHEDULE

ROSTER GIRLS: Seniors: Alanna Grant, Lindsey Schiefert, Taylor Hagen, Macaela Jensen, Molly Walsh.

Juniors: Alyssa Krohnberg, Lauren Larkoski. Sophmores: Alison Pryor, Kylie Forystek, Leah Inwards, Leah Schiefert, Laura Grant, Marissa Larson. Freshmen: Asia Thostenson, Samantha Wurst. Seventh graders: Gemini Johnson, Jayde Wacek, Viridiane Villareal.

BOYS: Seniors: Weston Myer, Cole Sunde, Collin Wobschall. Juniors: Kevin Eischens, Mitchell Jones, Anthony Nelson, Eddie Erickson.

Sophomores: Elijah Baker, Thomas Burke, Evan Doerhoefer, Quentin Kubista, Ben Smith, Joe Scheifert.

Freshmen: Kristian Hamersma, Michael Hillson, Alec Ille, Timuer Kritzer, Marten Morem, Kory Rafdal, Jesse Schewe.

Blooming Prairie boys and LAST SEASON girls finished sixth in the Gopher 10-10 overall; 4th in Gopher Conference .

Conference

“

COACHSPEAK

“This team brings some unique challenges and opportunities for the coaching staff.

We feel that we have a lot of talent on our team as well as a lot of flexibility … I believe this group of young ladies has the drive and determination to be extremely successful this spring.”

— BP coach Ali Mach

significant production from are Alison Pryor (mid-distance) and Asia Thostenson (hurdles).

Bottin, whose team took sixth in the Gopher Conference a season ago, said she hopes to finish in the top-five of the conference.

Maple River and USC are the league favorites.

On the boys side, the Blossoms are aiming to improve on their sixth place finish in the conference, as well.

“This year being somewhat of a rebuilding year as a team, I would be thrilled if we could crack the top half of teams in the

March 21 at St. Olaf Meet, 1 p.m.

April 2 at Loyola (MSU-Mankato), 7 p.m.

April 7 at Hayfield, 4:30 p.m.

April 14 at Stewartville, 4:30 p.m.

April 16 at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m.

April 21 hosts invite, 4:30 p.m.

April 28 hosts invite, 4:30 p.m.

May 5 at Triton, 3 p.m.

May 12 at Gopher Meet (USC), 4:30 p.m.

May 21 at Grand Meadow (SubSections), 4:30 p.m.

LAST SEASON

ROSTER Seniors: Tessa Ivers, Madison Worke, Jessica Ferguson. Juniors: Anika Nowlan, Abby Wayne, Kalyn Naatz. Sophmores: Elly Strunk, Bria Baldwin. Freshmen: Emma Christianson, Linnea Sunde, McKenna Hein.

If the Blooming Prairie girls track team struggles this spring — and it shouldn’t — lack of experience won’t be the reason.

According to BP coach Kari Bottin, nearly all of the Awesome Blossom starters return in 2015. Leading the pack will be thrower Taylor Hagen and middistance runner Alanna Grant.

In last year’s Section 1A meet, Hagen took third in the shot put and Grant finished sixth in the 800-meter run to lead the Blossoms’ scoring.

Other athletes Bottin expects

conference,” BP coach Ryan Stack said.

According to Stack, the Blossoms have a talented group of upperclassmen to lead the pursuit. At the forefront are seniors Cole Sunde (long and triple jump/ sprints), Angel Villareal (200-meter dash, 800 run) and Collin Wobschall (shot put). Others expected to contribute significant production are juniors Anthony Nelson (long jump/sprints) and Mitchell Jones (high jump/sprint relays). Distance-wise, freshman Alec Ille will set the pace in the 1600 and 3200.

NEED TO KNOW

Taylor Hagen — The senior will be leaned on to lead the throwing events for the Blossoms. She took third in the shot put at the Section 1A meet last year. With added strength and precision Hagen has a strong shot to become a state-qualifier.

Cole Sunde — Sunde’s athleticism will come in handy on the track and in the field for the Blossoms. The senior will helm the long and triple jump events and will surely clock in some of the team’s top times in the sprinting events.

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Thursday, April 2, 2015

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

NRHEG

NRHEG HIGH SCHOOL BOYS/GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD

PAGE 15

NRHEG

NRHEG HIGH SCHOOL BOYS/GIRLS GOLF

NRHEG boys, girls look to overcome lack of depth NRHEG boys, girls swinging for top of the league With its three senior captains competing in shotput and discus, the NRHEG boys track team should excel in the field events.

Kevin Kalis, Keith Maxon and Todd Erickson provide leadership for a Panthers squad that doesn’t have a lot of depth.

To improve on its third-place finish in the Gopher Conference last year, the Panthers need a boost from its sprinters. The loss of TJ Schiltz will hurt the Panthers in the longer distances. Schiltz

was the team MVP last year and placed fifth in state. In both the Gopher Conference and the subsection, United South Central should again be one of the favorites. Waseca is another favorite to win the section as well.

Like the boys team, the NRHEG girls track team doesn’t have a lot of depth. The Panthers will rely on its underclassmen for much of the season to score.

Sophomores Gretchen Ramaker, and Maddie and Marnie

NEED TO KNOW

Kevin Kalis, Keith Maxon and Todd Erickson — The Panthers’ only seniors on the boys side will wreak havoc in the field events. The three captains throw shotput and discus and should be the strongest component of the Panthers track team.

Maddie and Marnie Wagner — Two of the Panthers primary sprinters, the Wagners will give a boost to the Panthers where older sister Carlie left large shoes to fill.

Wagner bring strength to the team in the sprints and jumping events.

Coach Duey Ferber — in his 25th year with the Panthers — said the team will remain strong in the long jump and high jump.

That will be a tall task due to the loss of two-time state high jump champion Carlie Wagner.

The Panthers placed fourth in the Gopher Conference last year and should remain in the top half this year. WEM and Maple River are the

After sending one player to the Section 2AA tournament last year, the Panthers bring back an experienced team on both the boys and girls side.

The boys finished fifth in the sub-section tournament while the girls placed sixth. Jessica Nafe was the lone Panthers golfer to advance.

The entire NRHEG boys golf team returns this year as the Panthers were led by juniors and underclassmen last season. Seniors Jake Langlie and Macoy Schwierjohann anchor the Panthers averaging in the high 40s last season. The senior

leadership of Schwierjohann and Langlie, along with the likes of Cole Lenort and Kelson Titus, should mix in well with newcomers in Atom Oquist and Ethan Thompson.

Coach Brad Root said he’s looking for someone to emerge as surprise to help win the Gopher Conference crown. He added USC will again be the conference favorite while Waseca is a frontrunner for the section title.

Similar to the NRHEG boys team last year, the Panthers’ girls squad has no seniors. But even so,

SCHEDULE

ROSTER

March 31 hosts NRHEG triangular April 2 at Waseca April 7 hosts NRHEG Panther Relays April 17 at USC April 21 at Maple River April 24 at Blue Earth Area April 28 at Blooming Prairie May 5 at USC May 12 USC (Conference Meet)

GIRLS: Juniors: Jessica Nafe, Riley Koziolek, Bayli Possin. Sophomores: Jill Jongbloedt.

Freshmen: Lauren Herrmann, Tali Wayne, Kyra Possin. BOYS: Seniors: Jake Langlie, Cole Lenort, Kelson Titus, Hudson Mortz, Macoy Schwierjohann. Juniors: Nick Schultz, Mike Altermatt, Lucas Herrmann. Sophomores: Spencer Enger, Will Rudau, Kolton Koziolek. Freshmen: Atom Oquist, Ethan Thompson.

the girls bring back an experienced group from last year and lost only one senior in Lizzy Stohl.

The Panthers are led by Jessica Nafe who advanced to the section tournament last year. Behind Nafe is some of Panthers top golfers from the last two seasons such as Jill Jongbloedt and Bayli Possin.

Root expects the Panthers to be near the top in both the conference and the section. Competing with NRHEG in the conference is foe USC and in the sub-section Waseca is the likely favorite.

SCHEDULE BOYS April 13 vs. Blooming Prairie April 14 vs. Triton April 23 at USC April 27 at Blooming Prairie April 28 at Triton May 7 at Faribault Academies May 11 at Waseca May 12 at Blue Earth Area May 14 at Gopher Meet

GIRLS April 16 at USC April 23 at JWP April 30 vs. Blooming Prairie May 7 at Faribault Academies May 8 at Blooming Prairie May 11 at Waseca May 14 at Gopher Meet

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PAGE 16

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

TRITON

TRITON HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

Senior-laden Cobras look to turn over new leaf The Triton baseball team took its lumps in 2014, but enter the new season with much higher expectations.

The Cobras don’t have a particularly deep roster, but they do have a huge senior class that will essentially make up the entire club.

In all, Triton has 10 players listed on its varsity roster (as of March 27), nine of whom are seniors and none of whom are juniors. Basically, it’s now or never for the Cobras as 2016 will no doubt be a transition season.

Triton, which somehow man-

aged to play 21 games last year despite the uncooperative weather, will be anchored by Michael Thomas. After ending with a respactable 4.20 ERA during the varsity season last year, the senior went unbeaten on the mound during the summer. When he’s not pitching, Thomas will center field and first base.

Ley Ortiz also returns and will regain his customary position behind the plate. In 2014, he batted .314 with a team-high two home runs. In the outfield Kylo Courteau (.354 AVG in 2014), Colton

Erdman (.317 AVG) and Dakota Hester return while classmate Jordon Deno comes back at third base. Last year, Deno finished with a .403 on-basepercentage.

The lone sophomore on the roster, Carson Johnson, and senior Derick Wencl will play the middle infield spots.

The Cobras compete in the ultra-competitive HVL Conference and the even more challenging Section 1AA — which features state powers Kasson-Mantorville and Rochester Lourdes.

TRITON

TRITON HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

Young Cobras seek to keep improving in 2015 The Triton softball team took a huge stride forward last season after finishing 11-8 with the same roster that won just three games in 2013.

In 2015, continued improvement may not be measured in wins and losses, however, as the Cobras bring back just three starters and rely on a varsity newcomer at pitcher.

“My goal this year is to continue to improve Triton Softball,” coach Laura Strandell. “I look for the returners to step up and help

the team continue to be successful. My goal is for the girls to fight hard in every game and enjoy their season.”

The good news for the Cobras is two vital positions, shortstop and center field, appear to be solidified as Ella Blaisdell (SS) and Mateah Lamoree (CF) return. In 2014, Blaisdell, switched to slapstyle hitting and batted .250. On defense, she was rock-solid with a .957 fielding percentage. Lamoree came on strong at the end of last season and pushed her batting

average just above .200.

Taking over in the circle for the departed all-conference pitcher Haley Staffon is senior Katie Rosenau. In 2013 and 2014, Rosenau gained valuable experience at the junior varsity level.

Serena Jensen comes back after making spot-starts in the outfield and at second.

Other than that, the remaining positions on the diamond will be filled in by a combination of underclassmen all the way up to inexperienced seniors.

TRITON

TRITON HIGH SCHOOL BOYS/GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD ROSTERS

GIRLS: Seniors: Haley Redican, Piper Yankowiak. Sophmore: Machenzie Hickey, Mariah Lang, Greta Rhodes, Hayden Rubin. Freshmen: Allison Baumgartner, Viktoria Cortez, Bailey Delzer, Carissa Kleinwort, Maylene Payne, Courtney West, Kiley Yankowiak. Eighth graders: Jessica Barajas, Breanna Barney, Nell Graham, Hannah Henrichs, Jenna Jensen, Karissa Otterbein, Cambryn Rubin. Seventh graders: Liz Cortez, Abby Gilliland, Sydney Gilliland, Megan Koehler, Claire Maixner, Alyssa Mitchell, Kendra Petersohn. BOYS: Seniors: Hector Bugarin, John Tate. Juniors: Jax Byrngelson, Garrett Dahms, Adam Vacura. Sophmores: Leif Bungum, Rene Cortez, Nick Simonette. Freshmen: Landon Dostal, Mason Koehler, Kyle Micthell, Todd Nuss, Dalton Otterbein, Cha Stuve, Hunter Yankowiak. Eighth graders: Fernando Bugarin, Sam Favilla, Nolan Ferber, Hunter Iverson-Himle, DJ Lyke, Dylan Maas, Justin Ness, Trace Sackett, Johnny Simonette. Seventh graders: Devin Dohrmann, Ethan Lau, Aydan Round, Tristin Stroebl.

Thursday, April 2, 2015

SCHEDULE

ROSTER

March 31 at Stewartville, 5 p.m.

April 7 at Cannon Falls, 5 p.m.

April 9 vs. Goodhue, 4 p.m.

April 13 vs. Kasson-Mantorville, 5 p.m.

April 16 vs. Byron, 5 p.m.

April 18 at Hayfield (doubleheader), 11 a.m.

April 20 vs. Dover-Eyota, 4:30 p.m.

April 21 at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m.

April 23 at Rochester Lourdes, 5 p.m.

April 27 vs. Lake City, 5 p.m.

April 30 at Pine Island, 5 p.m.

May 4 vs. Kenyon-Wanamingo, 5 p.m.

May 5 at Medford, 4:30 p.m.

May 7 at Goodhue, 4:30 p.m.

May 9 vs. Zumbrota-Mazeppa (doubleheader), 11 a.m.

May 12 vs. Pine Island, 5 p.m.

May 15 at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 5 p.m.

Seniors: Michael Thomas, Kylo Courteau, Derick Wencl, Jordon Deno, Dakota Hester, Colton Erdmann, Ley Ortiz, Connor Thompson, Garrett Franko. Sophomores: Carson Johnson.

LAST SEASON

2-19 overall, 1-11 HVL

“

COACHSPEAK

“Offensively we will use our athleticism to our advantage. We have quickness at the top of our lineup. Defensively we hope to NEED TO KNOW be much improved with seven Michael Thomas — On a thin returning starters.” pitching staff, Thomas will serve — Triton coach Mike Elas the ace. In 2014, he ended with lingson a 4.20 ERA for the 2-19 Cobras.

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cars-n-credit.com SCHEDULE March 31 vs. K-M, 5 p.m.

April 7 vs. Goodhue, 4:30 p.m.

April 9 at Hayfield, 4:30 p.m.

April 13 vs. Stewartville, 5 p.m.

April 14 vs. WEM, 5 p.m.

April 16 at Lourdes, 5 p.m.

April 18 at St. Clair Invite, 9 a.m.

April 20 vs. Lyle-Pacelli, 4:30 p.m.

April 21 vs. Pine Island, 5 p.m.

April 23 at Z-M, 5 p.m.

April 24 vs. Century, 4:30 p.m.

April 27 vs. Lake City (DH), 4:30 p.m.

May 1 at Faribault BA, 4:30 p.m.

May 4 at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m.

May 7 vs. K-W, 5 p.m.

May 11 vs. Houston, 4:30 p.m.

May 12 at Cannon Falls, 5 p.m.

May 15 at Byron, 5 p.m.

ROSTER Seniors: Elena Aguilar, Lindsey Anding, Serena Jensen, Mateah Lamoree, Katie Rosenau. Juniors: Ella Blaisdell, Kayla Dostal, Candi Utech. Sophomores: Tatyanna Bond, Mandy Malmberg, Katelyn Oakland. Freshmen: Allissa Hallaway

SCHEDULE March 31 hosts invite, 4:30 p.m.

April 7 at Stewartville, 4:30 p.m.

April 10 at PEM, 4:30 p.m.

April 14 at Stewartville, 4:30 p.m.

April 16 hosts invite, 4:30 p.m.

April 21 at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m.

April 23 at Lake City, 4:15 p.m.

May 5 hosts True Team, 3 p.m.

May 9 at HVL Meet (Lake City), 10:30 a.m.

May 12 at Winona, 4 p.m.

May 15 hosts Triton Invite, 4:30 p.m.

May 21 at Sub-sections (Grand Meadow), 4:30 p.m.

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Thursday, April 2, 2015

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

MEDFORD

MEDFORD HIGH SCHOOL BOYS/GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD

ROSTER

SCHEDULE

BOYS: Seniors: Cody Schultz, Dillon Ripka, Lucas Cronin, Quinn O’Connor, Richie Powers, TJ Borwege, Trevor Grems. Juniors: Alex Goetze, Francisco Ruiz, Jack Luebbe, Matt Swanson, Preston Hanson, Zach Valen.

Sophmores: Joshua Schauer, Marcus Deleon, Tye DeVoe. Freshmen: Bo Noble, Bradey Walsh, Brody Berg, Bryce McCarty, Dakota Wiersma, Elisha Wagner, Greg Larson, Nate McCarty, Tristen Kern. Eighth graders: Brett Johnson, Devan List, Isaiah Chavis, Jacob Gasner, Joey Schull, Luke Johnston, Noah Pirkl, Ryan Hermanstorfer, Tanner Barbeau. Seventh graders: Billy Chester, Brendan Rahn, Christian Tupa, Dylan Stenzel, Logan Pleshcourt. GIRLS: Seniors: Cassidy Kavitz. Juniors: Cassie Borwege, Cassie Borwege, Sarah Manderfeld, Taya Sexton. Sophmores: Alicia Esch, Ally Linse, Amber Sobrack, Ashley Gilbertson, Callie Nagel, Cassandra Larson, Dani Morgan, Matea Hobbs, Mikayla Spinler, Rachel Bluhm, Rebecca Edel.

Freshmen: Beth Ann Hanson, Danielle Stewart, Isabel Brady, Jenna McCarthy, Jewel Stewart, Kaylee Kern, Kayleigh Walock, Kelsey Kern. Eighth graders: Bailey Purrier, Meredith Gillis, Rachael Luebbe, Taylore Keppers.

Seventh graders: Emily Cloutier, Kylee Bauer, Payton Powers.

March 31 at NRHEG, 4:30 p.m.

April 2 at PEM Invite, 4:30 p.m.

April 7 at Hayfield Invite, 4:30 p.m.

April 9 at Owatonna meet, 3:30 p.m.

April 11 at TCU Invite, 11 a.m.

April 16 at Triton Invite, 4:30 p.m.

April 21 hosts invite, 4:30 p.m.

April 28 at Blooming Prairie invite, 4:30 p.m.

April 30 at Byron meet, 4:30 p.m.

May 5 at Triton Invite, 3 p.m.

May 7 hosts invite, 4:30 p.m.

May 12 at USC, 4:30 p.m.

May 19 at Byron (Sub-Sections), 4:30 p.m.

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LAST SEASON

Medford boys and girls both finished fifth in the Gopher Conference

“

COACHSPEAK

“I think we can improve on our fifth place finish from last year. Hopefully we can move into the top two or three.”

— Medford coach Kevin Werk

NEED TO KNOW

Preston Hanson — The junior thrower brings back the team’s top finish from last year’s Section 1A meet, a fourth-place outing in the shot put. Look for Hanson to anchor the throwers once again.

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OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 2, 2015

OWATONNA

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TRACK AND FIELD

High jumpers Kingland, LeFaive catalysts The Owatonna boys track and field team has big shoes to fill.

Well, more accurately, a lot of shoes to fill.

The Huskies lost 34 seniors from last season’s squad that finished as the runner up in the Big Nine Conference and True Team Section and took third place in the Section 1AA meet. Gone is Andrew Stelter, a two-time state qualifier in the shot put. Gone is Logan Langeland, who qualified for state in the triple jump. Gone is a Nick Rethemeier, Owatonna’s top distance runner the last two years.

But, the Huskies have a bevy of talent returning.

At the forefront are senior high jumpers Zae LeFaive and Matt Kingland who are coming off of state-qualifying junior seasons. And after eighth and 14th

ROSTER Seniors: Brady Heaney, Dan Nolte, David Hernandez, Dylan Lattery, Jacob Zabel, Jake Gallagher, Jesse Starks, Julius Franklin, Kyle Clausen, Matt Kingland, Owen Davis, Pat Lammers, Qahir Lakha, Sam Huntsman, Zae LeFaive. Juniors: Brady Ruiter, Brase Brennon, Carlos Deaz, Dan Kaupa, Gabriel Phillips, Isaac VandeZandi, Isaiah Kessel, Jacob Dahl, Jacob Johnson, Jake Borchardt, Joash Rockensock, John Betti, Jourdan Nelson, Ken Hauer, Kyle Layland, Lance Ulrich, Lane Thiesse, Kyle Layland, Lucan Arndt, Jourdan Nelson, Andrew Peterson, Ryan Guenther, Travis Hall. Sophomores: Braydon Kubat, Tristyn Brooks, Bryce Goodwin, Chandler Buckhalter, Carter Broton, Cole Bergeman, Cory Ulrich, Darik Elstad, Dominick Hernandez, Ethan DeKam, Isaiah Damitz, Jacob Menden, Jayden Gunderson, Jesse Swedin, John Beadell, Justin Robb, Khor Wal, Mark Kubista, Ross Stevensen, Ryan Bos, Vince Spurgeon, Steven St. Martin, Griffin Thorn.

Freshmen: Alec Salloum, Andrew Jackson, Andrew Jensen, Benjamin Stelter, Brandon Schmidt, Bretton Ruiter, Carlos Beascoche, Chandler Dincau, Collen Shaver, Evan Steiger, Isaiah Meixner, Jacob Dub, Jacob Slater, Jayden Schuster, Kadyn Mullert, Dalton Kubista, Logan Bauer, Ryan Anderson, Scott Kingland, Skyar Anderson, Zane Hedberg.

Matt Kingland OHS Senior

place finishes at state, respectively, the duo is eager to raise the bar in more ways than one.

Also returning to the fold is senior Jacob Zabel, who will lead the pack of sprinters, and Jacob Johnson, who will bring a slew of production in the hurdles.

Meanwhile, OHS coach Kevin Stelter, in his 16th year at the helm, is encouraged by the sophomore class who had a strong J.V. season last year.

Stelter said the team is shooting for a top-three finish in the Big Nine and the section.

SCHEDULE April 9 vs. K-M, Medford, Park Center, 3:30 p.m.

April 14 at Mankato West meet, 4:30 p.m.

April 21 vs. Winona, Austin, 4:30 p.m.

April 28 vs. Rochester JM,

Mayo, 4:30 p.m.

May 2 at Mayo Invite, 9 a.m.

May 12 at Faribault meet, 4:30 p.m.

May 22 at Big 9 Meet (Mankato East), 10:30 a.m.

LAST SEASON

Big Nine Conference runners up; True Team Section 1AA runners up; 3rd place at Section 1AA meet

NEED TO KNOW

Zae LeFaive and Matt Kingland — Last season as juniors the explosive leapers finished No. 1 and 2 in the high jump at the Section 1AA meet, with LeFaive winning the title with a 6-foot-3 mark and Kingland following at 6-2. At state, LeFaive took eighth and Kingland finished 14th. Needless to say, the senior duo will be big-time point scorers for the Huskies.

“

COACHSPEAK

“I expect our entire sophomore class who had a great J.V. season to step up and really fill in for the 34 seniors we lost from last year.”

— OHS coach Kevin Stelter

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Thursday, April 2, 2015

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

PAGE 19

OWATONNA

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD

SCHEDULE

March 31 at Gustavus Time Trials, 10 a.m.

April 9 vs. K-M, Medford, Park Center, 3:30 p.m.

April 14 vs. Mankato West, Northfield, 4:30 p.m.

April 18 at Austin, 4:30 p.m.

April 21 at Winona meet, 4:30 p.m.

April 28 at Rochester JM meet, 4:30 p.m.

May 4 at True Team Meet (Lakeville North), 2:15 p.m.

May 12 vs. Century, Faribault, 4:30 p.m.

May 22 at Big 9 Meet (Mankato East), 10:30 a.m.

LAST SEASON

Finished 6th in Big Nine Conference; 12th in Section 1AA

Carli Langeland OHS junior

NEED TO KNOW

Carli Langeland — The junior brings back the team’s top mark in the triple jump (33 feet, 6.25 inches) and the second-best distance in the long jump (15-9.5). Needless to say, she’ll be bringing big points in Owatonna’s field events.

Syd Kasper — The speedy senior will play a big role in the Huskies relays this season.

Last season she ran the first leg in the 4x800 relay that took fourth at sections. She returns a team-best 2-minute, 24.5-second finish in the 800 meter run.

“

COACHSPEAK

“We are very high in numbers, and show good balance in the events. [We have] a lot of talented student-athletes to give depth to our events.”

— OHS coach Ann Christensen

Jackie Warehime OHS senior

Huskies tout plenty of talent, depth Like clockwork, the Owatonna girls track and field team churns out a deep, talented crop of athletes.

This year is no exception.

The Huskies tout roughly 100 athletes this year, and many of them were the team’s top performers a season ago.

From the sprinters (led by Steph Kretlow, Margo Achterkirch, Syd Schultz, Karissa Gregory and Kathryn DuFrene) to the mid-distance and distance runners (paced by Syd Kasper, Jasmine Piepho and Jackie Warehime) to the hurdlers (helmed

by Toria Koch, Ali Goldberg and Morgan Malo) the Huskies are loaded on the track.

DuFrene, Schultz, Achterkirch and Gregory clocked in a fourthplace finish in the 4x200 meter relay at the Section 1AA meet last season. Meanwhile, Kasper, Goldberg, Amundson and Piepho nabbed fourth in the 4x800 relay.

In the field events, the Huskies are no slouches, either. Carli Langeland (triple and long jump), Mary Biegert and Eli Buck (shot put and discus), Caitlin Anderson (high jump) and Tatelyn Blazek (pole vault) each bring back high

marks from last season. At sections last year, Biegert tossed a personal-best 35 feet, 3.5 inches for eighth and Langeland leapt 335.75 in the triple jump for ninth.

Longtime coach Ann Christensen, in her 30th season, is hoping the talent pool — which includes more than 30 freshmen alone — leads to top-three finishes in the Big Nine Conference and Section 1AA. She said that Rochester Century and Mankato West are the favorites in the conference and Lakeville North and Lakeville South will be the top contenders in the section.

ROSTER Seniors: Amber Holte, Rachel Belina, Tatelyn Blazek, Eli Kathryn DuFrene, Abby Hansen, Haylee VanEngelenhoven, Laura Johnson, Sydney Kasper, Payton Knutson, Maline Bungum, Morgan Malo, Mariah Jorgensen, Maddie Menden, Jasmine Piepho, Margart Sager, Jackie Warehime, Jordan Wickman. Juniors: Nayelie Avalos, Mary Biegert, Kathrine Clark, Peyton DeVinny, Nicole Johnson, Steph Kretlow, Carli Langeland, J’Nae Limberg, Elise Oppegard, Kirsten Rysavy, Jessica Sawyer, Jessica VonRuden. Sophomores: Cassandra Zavala, Anna Weisenburger, Peyton Vasquez, Kendall Travis, Maya Rohwer, Tate Peterson, Mallory Olson, Callie McCauley, Jackie Layland, Gwyn Larson-McCluskey, Lexi Langeland, Madie Kubista, Toria Koch, Christina Kim, Kahla Jorgensen, Sara Higgins, Abby Haberman, Gregory Karissa, Louisa Deetz, Mariah Dant, Amanda Collins, Page Cocchiarella, Katie Belina, Sydney Bartz, Caitlin Anderson, Emily

An. Freshmen: Margo Achterkirch, Sophie Amundson, Nina Barriga, Hanna Brekke, Nyakhor Godoar, Ali Goldberg, Julia Haarstad, Lauren Hylle, Taitlynn Jensen, Rachelle Judson, Eternity Krampitz, Danielle Layland, Erin Murry, Brooke Parker, Maddy Piepho, Sydney Sampson, Rebecca Sattler, Sydney Schultz, McKenzie Sommers, Olivia Spatenka, Ahnna Stelter, Erica Svenby, Nyanuer Tut, Taylor Velzke, Brooke Wehseler, Lydia Weisenbruger, Morgan Welker, Riley Wickman, Payton Wunderlich. Eighth grade: Annabelle Wellnitz, Mary Sager, Lily Redman Emily Rahrick, Geneviere Phillips, Alysha Owen, Heidi Lundberg, Syd Kretlow, Tayah Hoffman, Mariana Hernandez, Burke Henderson, Molly Hawkins, Annika Harper, Allison An. Seventh grade: Sara Anderson, Asia Buryska, Kaia Elstad, Jessica Gregory, Jade Hanson, Erin Holzerland, ALyvia Johnson, ALivia Kubista, Olivia Matejcek, Elise Sande, Josie Sullivan, Beth Wilker.

PAGE 20

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 2, 2015

OWATONNA

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS GOLF Defending Big 9 title tall task for OHS The 2014 season was one for the books for the Owatonna girls golf team.

Strong off the tee and sharp on the greens, the Huskies carded a flawless 18-0 record in the Big Nine Conference, winning the conference tournament by 19 strokes to capture their first Big Nine title since 2011.

With the addition of Red Wing and Northfield to the conference, defending their Big Nine crown will be a challenge for the Huskies this spring. However, Owatonna, which returns four of its starters, undoubtedly has the talent to do so.

Setting the pace will be senior Maddie Peglow, who was Owatonna’s scoring average leader last season and named the team’s Golfer of the Year, and Anna Edel, who consistently stayed on the leaders’ heels. The two tied for second at the Big Nine meet last year.

Other returning starters include Jayce Bogen and Maddie Zulk. All four Huskies were top-20 scorers in the Big Nine last season. Same could be said for graduates Kenzie Soukup and Erin Abbe, who leave big shoes to fill — Soukup, most especially. Soukup, a member of the Wartburg College women’s golf team, was last year’s Big Nine medalist as well as the Huskies’

“

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lone state-qualifier. She finished 19th at state.

A newcomer who will look to help fill the void left by Abbe and Soukup is sophomore Megan Peglow.

OHS coach Tim Hunst believes the Huskies will be in the thick of the conference race once again, with Northfield, Winona

COACHSPEAK

and Red Wing — especially Red Wing, which is a state championship contender — right there along with them.

“It will be interesting to see the battle of the top four teams in the conference,” Hunst said.

In the Section 1AAA field, OHS will have to get past Lakeville North and Northfield.

NEED TO KNOW Maddie Peglow — The senior was the Huskies’ scoring average leader a season ago and looks to keep the pace in her final campaign. She tied for the runner-up spot at the Big Nine meet.

Anna Edel — Edel played an 2:30 p.m.

April 27 at Rochester Century integral role in helping Owatonna triangular, 2:30 p.m. capture the Big Nine title a season May 5 vs. Mankato West, Roch- ago. She tied for second at the Big ester JM, 2:30 p.m.

Nine meet last year.

May 6 at Lake City Invite, 2 p.m.

“We will challenge for the top SCHEDULE of the conference again. The addi- April 10 at Faribault Invite, 10 tion of Red Wing and Northfield a.m.

— two strong golf programs — April 14 at Mankato East, 3 p.m. makes the conference very tough.” April 16 vs. Faribault, 2:30 p.m.

April 21 at Winona triangular, — OHS coach Tim Hunst

ROSTER Seniors: Anna Edel, Maddie Peglow, Nora Rubish. Juniors: Jayce Bogen, Maddie Zulk, Grace Simon. Sophomores: Shannon VanReeth, Tori Urch, Megan Peglow. Freshman: Izzy Anderson, Allyson Lenz, Rebecca Olson, Marie Otterson, Grace Pick, Hanna Roberts.

May 11 at Austin quad, 2:30 p.m.

May 18 at Big 9 Meet, 10 a.m.

LAST SEASON

18-0 in the Big Nine Conference; 2nd in Section 1AAA

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