2020 Fall Sports Preview

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2020 |

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Everyone is in the playoffs for the first time in Iowa history. The six-week, free-for-all begins Oct. 16.

State leaders have placed bets on a fall season. Teams are determined to play.

NICK PETAROS JIM NELSON

Jim.nelson@wcfcourier.com

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rea high school football coaches are not fretting the changes brought upon the 2020 season because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, they’re embracing the opportunity. In late July, the Iowa High School Athletic Association announced a revised 2020 schedule, reducing the regular season to a seven-game maximum. A six-week, single-elimination playoff is set to follow. All teams, from all classes will qualify for the postseason. Everybody’s in. Like with anything, area coaches have found pros and cons about the plan, but are universal in stating that they are happy for their kids to have the opportunity to play. “A month ago we didn’t know if it was going to be an opportunity or not,” Grundy Center head coach Travis Zajac said. “I give the state a lot of credit for coming up with a system that they did to allow us the opportunity to play.” “We are just glad to be on the field doing something that maybe other teams aren’t going to be able to do,” Independence head

coach Jason Putz added. The new plan allowed all schools the option to schedule five, six or seven regular season games within a window from Aug. 27 until Oct. 9. The six-week playoffs will start on Oct. 16. The state semifinals (Nov. 13-15) and state finals (20-21) remain as previously scheduled. Additionally, district games in Classes A through 3A remain in previously scheduled order, now beginning in week 3. The first two weeks are optional dates with each school responsible for lining up its opponents. Class 4A schedules were completely revamped by member schools with the state encouraging Please see PLAYOFFS, Page 12

nick.petaros@wcfcourier.com

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he goalposts have moved in 2020. High school football players are no longer only dreaming of winning district championships, filling the stat sheet and making a deep playoff runs. They’re taking nothing for granted. “Hopefully just having a season,” Cedar Falls linebacker Eli Mickey responded when asked what he’s looking forward to most about the upcoming year. “It’s my senior season and a lot of these guys’ senior season. I know they’d be heartbroken if we didn’t have it, so if we have it that’s honestly what I’m most looking forward to right now — just being able to play.” Iowa is one of 19 states scheduled to begin its high school football season without a delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 14 states have canceled play this fall, while the others plan on a delayed start. “With everything going on, we’re just all excited to play,” Waterloo West linebacker Nate Ewell said. “There are a lot of schools that don’t get a chance to play, and we are, so I’m very fortunate and very happy for that.” The scene in practice is certainly different as teams prepare for their Aug. 28 openers. Please see COVID-19, Page 11

COURIER PHOTO ARCHIVES

Clockwise from top left: Grundy Center’s Jensen Klapp hugs teammate Cole Lehr after the Spartans defeated St. Ansgar in the state football semifinals; Columbus quarterback Carter Gallagher returns from a breakthrough 2019 season; Don Bosco’s team cheers as they receive the 2019 Eight-Player State Championship trophy after defeating Audubon 35-19; Cedar Falls’ Ryan Ostrich celebrates his second touchdown in the second quarter against Cedar Rapids Prairie. 00 1

THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2020

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wcfcourier.com


FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

C2 | Thursday, August 27, 2020

MISSISSIPPI DIVISION

Cedar Falls has been dominant Tigers have won last 24 regularseason games

Players to Watch Drew Hoth, Cedar Falls: The

Northern Illinois commit anchors an offensive line that returns five starters.

Jeron Senters, Linn-Mar: Sec-

ond-team all-state defensive back led Class 4A with seven interceptions in 2019.

NICK PETAROS

nick.petaros@wcfcourier.com‌

CEDAR FALLS — The Iowa ‌ High School Athletic Association unveiled a “success model” last February in hopes of finding more competitive games throughout Class 4A schedules. A Cedar Falls team that has won its last 24 regular-season contests was slated to host seven-time defending state champion West Des Moines Dowling in its opener. Lengthy trips to Bettendorf and Davenport Central were scheduled, and Ankeny Centennial would be making a near two-hour drive to the UNI-Dome. That plan got thrown out the window as the state shifted to a seven-game regular season during the COVID-19 pandemic. Renewing Mississippi Valley Conference divisional rivalries is the end result. Cedar Falls will be competing in the Mississippi Division alongside Cedar Rapids Prairie, Linn-Mar, Cedar Rapids Washington, Iowa City High and Iowa City Liberty. “We’ve had some great rivalries over the years with some of these teams in the MVC,” Cedar Falls coach Brad Remmert said. “It’s some familiar faces. We traveled too far (in state-assigned district play) that sometimes the crowds may not have been as big as what they’d be when we traveled within the MVC. It will be nice to get back to some of those teams and just seeing some of the faces that we haven’t seen for a while.” Linn-Mar coach Paul James echoed that sentiment, noting he hasn’t seen many of the divisional teams play in the last few years as opponents. Cedar Rapids Prairie coach Mark Bliss is embracing the resumption of conference football, as well. “With MVC opponents it will

Nick Pearson, Prairie: Rushed

for 1,788 yards and 27 touchdowns. Pearson averaged 8.7 yards per carry.

Gable Mitchell, City High: Put

together a productive sophomore season in which he led the Little Hawks in receptions and tackles.

Henry Clymer, Washington:

Clymer enters his third season as a starting quarterback after passing for 1,370 yards and 10 touchdowns. His experience will be key in a division without many returning starting QBs.

CHRIS ZOELLER PHOTOS, GLOBE GAZETTE‌

2020 schedule

Aug. 28 — Senior at Cedar Falls, Kennedy at Prairie, Linn-Mar at Hempstead, Jefferson at Washington, Davenport Central at City High, secondary. Second team all-state Iowa City West at Liberty. defensive back Jeron Senters led Class 4A with seven interceptions. Sept. 3 — Liberty at Jefferson. Clayton Muszynski recorded 107 Sept. 4 — Cedar Falls at Waterloo tackles and finished as a third team West, Prairie at Dubuque Senior, all-state defensive back. Xavier at Linn-Mar, Washington On offense, the Lions have an at Kennedy, City High at Iowa City intriguing weapon in Andrew West. Knipper. The 6-foot-4 junior recorded eight catches for 155 yards Sept. 10 — City High at Washington. and two touchdowns at tight end. Sept. 11 — Cedar Falls at Prairie, He also saw reps at quarterback Linn-Mar at Liberty. and defensive end. Sept. 18 — Liberty at Cedar Falls, James noted team speed is one Prairie at City High, Washington at of Linn-Mar’s strengths, while the Linn-Mar. Lions may have to overcome a lack Sept. 25 — Cedar Falls at City High, of size up front. Iowa City Liberty is making Linn-Mar at Prairie, Washington at the jump from Class 3A to Class Liberty. 4A in its third year of football. The Oct. 1 — Cedar Falls at Washington. Lightning went 7-3 last season Oct. 2 — Prairie at Liberty, City High with a senior-led roster. at Linn-Mar. Cedar Rapids Washington (36) and Iowa City High (2-7) re- Oct. 9 — Linn-Mar at Cedar Falls, turn plenty of starters in pursuit Washington at Prairie, Liberty at City High. of growth.

Cedar Falls players run through plays during practice for the 2020 season. Offensive line play figures to be a strength within this year’s Tigers. be interesting to see how this all plays out,” Bliss noted. “I like the MVC playing each other as it helps make scheduling easier and keeps the IHSAA out of scheduling. Tough teams and great coaches make every Friday a challenge.” Cedar Falls handed Prairie its only district loss last season by a 56-42 margin inside the UNIDome. Each team returns enough pieces to be the frontrunners in the division this fall. Five starting offensive linemen are back for Cedar Falls, in addition to running back Ryan Ostrich and receivers Trey Campbell and Daniel Hutchins. The Tigers will debut a revamped defensive line following significant graduation losses, but bring back Eli Mickey and Ryley Barnett at linebacker. Nate Gee and Jase Seger provide experience in the secondary. Prairie returns 11 starters, in-

Cedar Falls head coach Brad Remmert runs practice in preparation for the team’s opener. cluding Nick Pearson who rushed for 1,788 yards and 27 touchdowns as a junior. All-district tight end Gabe Burkle and all-district wide receiver Colton Forslund are also back within a high-octane offense. Linn-Mar went 4-1 in its district last season and features a talented

Mississippi capsules Cedar Falls Tigers‌ HEAD COACH: Brad

Remmert

2019 RECORD: 10-1 DID YOU KNOW? Cedar

Falls hasn’t lost a regular season game since a 32-31 home setback to Iowa City West on Sept. 8, 2017.

Cedar Rapids Prairie Hawks

C.R. Washington Warriors

Iowa City Liberty Lightning‌

Iowa City High Little Hawks‌

Linn-Mar Lions‌

HEAD COACH: Mark

HEAD COACH: Maurice

HEAD COACH: Jeff Gor-

HEAD COACH: Dan Sa-

HEAD COACH: Paul

Bliss 2019 RECORD: 6-4 DID YOU KNOW? Prairie led Class 4A with 333.9 rushing yards per game last season.

Blue 2019 RECORD: 3-6 DID YOU KNOW? Washington hasn’t produced a winning season since its 2016 run to the state semifinals.

don 2019 RECORD: 7-3 DID YOU KNOW? Liberty improved from 3-6 to 7-3 in its second season as a varsity football program.

bers 2019 RECORD: 2-7 DID YOU KNOW? City High’s four returning offensive line starters range in height from 6-foot-2 to 6-foot-6.

James

2019 RECORD: 6-4 DID YOU KNOW? Linn-

Mar returned to the playoffs last season after a three-year postseason drought.

VALLEY DIVISON

Wahawks ready to enter the Valley eastern half had previously played against league opponents from 1992 through 2013. “We’re really excited about it,” Moore said, assessing the conference-only schedule that will allow football to once again be included in the league’s all-sports standings. “None of our guys have played in this situation, so we’re kind of explaining what the MVC is like. “I think it’s one of the best conferences in the state of Iowa. We’re going to play some tough teams, especially locally, so we’re excited about getting back to the MVC and the Valley Division.” Cedar Rapids Kennedy, a 2019 state semifinalist team that went 10-2, returns among the Valley Division favorites with 10 starters back. The Cougars are solid on both sides of the line with first team all-stater and Iowa

NICK PETAROS

nick.petaros@wcfcourier.com‌

‌WATERLOO — Waterloo West football coach Lonnie Moore has included a brief history lesson into his team’s preparation for the 2020 season. Due to schedule adjustments made by the Iowa High School Athletic Association to provide flexibility during the COVID-19 pandemic, Class 4A teams will return to conference play for the first time since 2014 when the state began placing off of Iowa’s largest schools into districts. Waterloo West will be competing within the Mississippi Valley Conference’s Valley Division alongside Cedar Rapids Kennedy, Cedar Rapids Jefferson, Iowa City West, Dubuque Senior and Dubuque Hempstead. Metro schools Waterloo East and Cedar Falls will round out the Wahawks’ 2020 slate. Class 4A schools on Iowa’s

Inside the pages

Please see VALLEY, Page C5

CHRIS ZOELLER, GLOBE GAZETTE‌

Waterloo West senior Jeron Shaw runs the ball during practice in Waterloo.

Page C3 Class 3A, District 3 preview

Page C5‌ Class 1A, District 4 preview

Page C8‌ Class A, District 4 preview

Page C6‌ Class 1A, District 3 preview

Page C7‌ Class A, District 7 preview

Page C9‌ Eight Player, District 3 preview

Class 2A, District 6 preview

Page C4‌ Class 2A, District 4 preview

Page C10‌ Eight player, District 2 preview

Class A, District 3 preview 00 1


FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

Thursday, August 27, 2020 | C3

CLASS 3A, DISTRICT 3

2019 champ Bobcats face challengers West Delaware, WaverlyShell Rock and Decorah look to bounce back NICK PETAROS

nick.petaros@wcfcourier.com‌

‌WATERLOO — Western Dubuque is looking to reload following a dominant undefeated state championship run. West Delaware, Waverly-Shell Rock and Decorah are traditionally strong programs attempting to bounce back from down seasons. Waterloo East and Charles City are hoping to turn a corner. That’s the backdrop for Class 3A, District 3 this upcoming football season. It starts with the Bobcats. Western Dubuque has assembled a 23-3 record since returning to Class 3A’s ranks over the past two seasons, but the talented senior class from last year’s perfect run is gone and newcomers will need to carry on the tradition. Garrett Baumhover, who didn’t play football in 2019 after focusing on basketball, has returned and will provide talent and leadership at the quarterback position. The Bobcats enter the year with a 29-man varsity roster and will look towards more two-way players this season. West Delaware (5-4) was the only other school in the district to put together a winning 2019 campaign. Wyatt Voelker is back as the team’s lead tackler and top rusher, while quarterback Jared Voss will attempt to find growth with a season of experience under his belt. In total, the Hawks return 13 starters, including five first team all-district selections. “We are optimistic about the 2020 season,” West Delaware coach Doug Winkowitsch noted. “We are coming off a disappointing year. We will have a talented team this fall in key positions. “In a district where we have so many quality teams you must be ready each week and sustain it for four quarters.” Decorah will look towards a quartet of five senior returning starters to improve from last year’s 4-5 season. That group includes defensive tackle/offensive guard Dakota Swatek, quarterback/ defensive back Briggs Duwe, linebacker/ running back Cael Luzum, offensive tackle/ defensive end Charles Robinson and strong safety Drew Snyder. Vikings coach Pat Trewin notes his team has better size than usual, but is inexperienced at some key positions. After finishing with its first losing season since 2009, Waverly-Shell Rock has 17 letterwinners back. The Go-Hawks graduated four linemen, but are battle-tested in

CHRIS ZOELLER GLOBE GAZETTE‌

Waterloo East junior Kjuan Owens runs through drills during practice on Monday.

2020 schedule Aug. 28 — Charles City at New Hampton, Waterloo West at Waterloo East, Dubuque Wahlert at West Delaware, Crestwood at Waverly-Shell Rock, Western Dubuque at Cedar Rapids Xavier, Waukon at Decorah.

Dubuque Wahlert, West Delaware at Clinton, Waverly-Shell Rock at Waukon, Decorah at Crestwood.

Sept. 25 — Decorah at Charles City, Waterloo East at Western Dubuque, West Delaware at Waverly-Shell Rock.

Sept. 11 — Western Dubuque at Charles City, Waterloo East at Waverly-Shell Rock, West Delaware at Decorah.

Oct. 2 — Charles City at Waterloo East, Western Dubuque at West Delaware, Waverly-Shell Rock at Decorah.

Sept. 18 — Charles City at West Sept. 4 — Union Community at Delaware, Decorah at Waterloo East, Waverly-Shell Rock at Charles City, Waterloo East at Western Dubuque. the backfield and skill positions, linebacker, secondary and on special teams. Waterloo East also has some talent back. The Trojans finished 3-6 last season, but were within a touchdown in three games of going 6-3. “We’re going to be very young, junior loaded this year,” East coach Regis Baskerville said. “We bring a lot of talent back from our o-line position and our running back position with Kjuan Owens (7.2 yards per carry, eight touchdowns as a sophomore). He’s going to be a special guy for us.

Oct. 9 — Waverly-Shell Rock at Charles City, Waterloo East at West Delaware, Western Dubuque at Decorah.

“Then, defensively we bring back Mateo Martinez and Chase Niles. Those guys know how to operate. It’s just getting back to what we did last year, but a little bit better.” Similar to West Delaware, Charles City played almost all underclassmen last season. “We return every starter on offense so they understand our system,” Charles City coach Darren Bohlen noted. “Many of them also started on defense. Our athleticism will also be a strength. They need to understand how important their role will be and take pride in being a team player.”

Players to Watch Kjuan Owens, Waterloo East: Av-

eraged 7.2 yards on 127 carries as a sophomore with eight touchdowns. Wyatt Voelker, West Delaware: Returning first team all-stater tallied 76 tackles with 14 for loss in addition to rushing for 508 yards and six TDs at an average of 7 yards per carry. Cael Luzum, Decorah: A returning all-district contributor, Luzum finished with 46 solo and 19.5 assisted tackles his junior season. He also recorded 79 carries out of the offensive backfield. Sawyer Nauman, Western Dubuque: Linebacker finished with 40 tackles, 5.5 for loss, to go with a pair of fumble recoveries for the undefeated state champions. Trever Heitz, Charles City: Followed a 1,000-yard sophomore season with 829 yards as a junior.

Class 3A, District 3 capsules Charles City Comets‌

Decorah Vikings‌

HEAD COACH: Darren

HEAD COACH: Pat

Bohlen 2019 RECORD: 2-7 DID YOU KNOW? Charles City running back Trever Hietz enters his senior season 37 yards shy of the Comets’ career rushing record.

Trewin 2019 RECORD: 4-5 DID YOU KNOW? Prior to 2019, Decorah’s tradition-rich program hadn’t had a losing season since 2007.

Waterloo East Trojans‌

Waverly-Shell Rock Go-Hawks‌

West Delaware Hawks‌

Western Dubuque Bobcats‌

HEAD COACH: Regis

HEAD COACH: Mark

HEAD COACH: Doug

HEAD COACH: Justin

Baskerville 2019 RECORD: 3-6 DID YOU KNOW? East’s three wins last season were the most by the program since the Trojans tallied six wins during their 2012 playoff run.

Hubbard 2019 RECORD: 3-6 DID YOU KNOW? Prior to last season, Waverly-Shell Rock had won at least six games in each of the previous six years.

Winkowitsch 2019 RECORD: 5-4 DID YOU KNOW? West Delaware brings back 11 starters on offense, including nine all-district selections. The Hawks’ JV record last fall was 8-1 with a 6-2 freshman record.

Penner

2019 RECORD: 13-0 DID YOU KNOW?

2019 marked Western Dubuque’s second football state championship season. The Bobcats’ previous state title came in 2001.

CLASS 2A, DISTRICT 6

Union facing loaded schedule Traditional powerhouses Mount Vernon, Solon among favorites CRAIG SESKER

Sports Correspondent‌

00 1

‌Jared Pospisil is looking forward to making big strides in his second season as the head coach at Union Community of La Porte City. The Knights struggled to a 2-7 record last season, ending the program’s streak of 11 straight playoff appearances. Union returns five starters on offense and five on defense. The Knights have 48 players out for football this fall. “We’re excited to get started,” Pospisil said. “I’ve told our kids that they are blessed with the opportunity to be playing football with everything going on during this pandemic. We need to seize that and just enjoy practices right now. You never know what’s going to happen.” Senior Brandon Tompkins, who passed for 603 yards and rushed for 251 last year, will move from quarterback to receiver this season. “Brandon is a great athlete,”

Pospisil said. “And we plan to use him in a variety of places on offense this season.” Junior Grant Behrens will step in at quarterback for Union. He passed for 148 yards as a sophomore. “We are working on playing fast and being more aggressive,” Pospisil said. “At the same time, we also want to play smart.” The Knights are led in the trenches by 6-foot-1, 200-pound junior Dacoda Marvets, a Jared returning starter Pospisil on the offensive line. “Dacoda is a solid blocker,” Pospisil said. “He is a wrestler, and he knows to get good leverage in there. He’s just tough as nails.” Union landed in one of the strongest districts in the state. Class 2A, District 6 includes returning Class 3A runner-up So-

lon along with perennial powers Mount Vernon and Center Point-Urbana. “We’re in a tough district and we will be tested right away, but that will let us know where we stand,” Pospisil said. “We can look at every game as a learning opportunity. We’re not going to get down about it, we are just going to try and improve. It motivates us to want to do as well as can for seeding for the playoffs.” The Knights will rely on a number of young players to step up this fall. “We don’t have a whole lot of depth,” Pospisil said. “Our juniors will play a huge role for us this season.” Solon drops back down to Class 2A this season and is expected to contend for another state championship. The Spartans finished second to Western Dubuque in Class 3A last season. Solon, coming off a superb 12-1 finish in 2019, returns an experienced defense with seven starters

MARY BAUER/THE PROGRESS REVIEW‌

Union’s 2020 football captains are, pictured from left, Dallas Blackburn, Brandon Tompkins, Grant Behrens and Jacob Carey. back. Senior linebacker Carson Shive recorded 77.5 tackles last season. Senior safety Jackson Ryan is the second-leading tackler returning. Junior Cayden Knipper, a promising 6-foot-3 lineman, is another top player coming back. He moved up to varsity during the run to

the title game last year and made some big improvements physically in the offseason. The Spartans also have a new head coach in Lucas Stanton. He succeeds Kevin Miller, who won four state titles at Solon. Please see 2A, DISTRICT 6, Page C4


FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

C4 | Thursday, August 27, 2020

CLASS 2A, DISTRICT 4

Indee’s new neighborhood is tough Players to Watch

JIM NELSON

Jim.nelson@wcfcourier.com‌

‌There is not an easy Friday looming in the near future for any of the six members of Class 2A, District 4. This is perhaps one of the deepest 2A districts in the state. It features 2019 2A state runner-up Waukon, traditionally strong programs in New Hampton and North Fayette Valley and a pair of emerging programs in Crestwood of Cresco and Oelwein. That is the tall order facing Independence, who drops down from Class 3A, following a district championships season. The task is even taller considering the Mustangs lost 19 senior contributors. “I just don’t know,” Independence head coach Justin Putz said of where his team fits into the mix. “We are going to be an extremely young team. “ Like all teams, Putz says, the Mustangs are little behind because of the COVID-19 pandemic. He added his program did not do full offseason to try to help get the baseball and softball seasons to the finish line. “We’re not in as good as shape as we have been in the past coming in and we have a week until we play,” Putz said. “We’ve been stressing conditioning, eating well. It is most urgent we get our bodies ready to go for week one.” While the Mustangs lost a lot of leadership from a 9-1 team, Putz said competition across the board has been strong and that is only go-

Creed Welch, Waukon: Welch accounted for 33 touch-

downs, rushing for seven and passing for 26 more. He had 2,526 all-purpose yards his junior season. Liam McIntyre, North Fayette-Valley: McIntyre led the TigerHawks with 1,002 yards rushing, including nine rushes for touchdowns. Marcus Beatty, Independence: Beatty rushed for 458 yards and five touchdowns as a sophomore. Gage Voshell, Oelwein: Rushed for 1,315 yards and 16 touchdowns as a junior. Carter Ferrie, New Hampton: Rushed for 752 yards and 10 touchdowns.

2020 Schedule Aug. 28 – Waukon at Decorah, Charles City at New Hampton, Oelwein at Union, Crestwood at Waverly-Shell Rock Sept. 4 – Decorah at Crestwood, Waverly-Shell Rock at Waukon, New Hampton at Iowa Falls-Alden, Mount Vernon at Oelwein, Sept. 11 – Waukon at New Hampton, North Fayette-Valley at Crestwood, Independence at Oelwein. COURIER FILE PHOTO‌

Independence head coach Justin Putz returns a young squad in 2020. ing to push Independence’s development along faster. The Mustangs do have some players to build around, starting with junior running back Marcus Beatty. Beatty rushed for 458 yards and five scores last year. Putz said he will be a big part of Independence’s offensive game plan. “We are going to try to find ways to get him the ball with the least amount of people around him,” Putz said. A big piece of the puzzle is at quarterback where the Mustangs have to replace Logan Schmitt, who rushed for more than 1,300 yards and passed for another 1,300 last year. Right now, the leading candidates are senior Caleb

Straw, sophomore Mitch Johnson and junior Keegan Schmitt. “We need a combo of those three to step up and play well for us,” Putz said. Other key players back for the Mustangs are linemen Justin Wood and Spencer Campbell. “We don’t have a very big senior class,” Putz said. “But we need them to take big strides from where they were last year and help bring the young kids along.” There is a lot of experience returning for Crestwood. The Cadets have 16 letterwinners back including quarterback Carter Henry and a pair of defensive standouts – linebackers Treyton Burnikel and Mason Peter.

North Fayette Valley head coach Justin Heins says he hopes a team that was young last year can take big steps forward. “Experience,” Heins said of the team’s strength. “With only six seniors last year these guys got a lot of playing time in big moments. We need to have more of a passing game if we will want to compete with the best teams, and defensively, we will need to be much better up front than we were last season.” Running back Liam McIntyre is back for the TigerHawks after rushing for 1,002 yards and nine scores. Quarterback Kole Johnson returns after producing more than 1,000 all-purpose yards, and Kale Rodg-

Sept. 18 – Oelwein at Waukon, New Hampton at North Fayette Valley, Crestwood at Independence. Sept. 25 – Waukon at Independence, New Hampton at Crestwood, North Fayette-Valley at Oelwein. Oct. 2 – Crestwood at Waukon, Oelwein at New Hampton, Independence at North Fayette Valley Oct. 9 – Waukon at North Fayette-Valley, Independence at New Hampton, Crestwood at Oelwein. ers recorded 70 tackles from his linebacker spot. Oelwein and New Hampton return two of the best running backs in the district. Gage Voshell rushed for 1,315 yards and 16 touchdowns as a junior for the Huskies, while Carter Ferrie scored 10 times while accumulating 752 rushing yards for the Chickasaws. New Hampton head coach Scott Frerichs enters the season three wins short of 190 for his career. Waukon hasn’t won fewer

than 10 games in any of the last three seasons. The Indians return a wealth of talent at the skill positions led by quarterback Creed Welch, who passed for 26 touchdowns and rushed for seven more last fall while leading Waukon to the 2A title game. Senior Ethan O’Neill and junior Pat Hennessey combined for 143 carries and 1,357 yards and 13 touchdowns. Brady Behrend is the top returning receiver after hauling in 27 passes for 461 yards and six scores.

Class 2A, District 4 capsules Crestwood Cadets‌

HEAD COACH: Skip Eck-

hardt 2019 RECORD:5-4 DID YOU KNOW? The Cadets returns 16 letterwinners from their 2019 squad.

2A, DISTRICT 6 From C3

“While we lost a lot of our offensive firepower from last season, we do return a lot of experience on defense,” Stanton said. “Our line will be a strength as we break in a new group of skill kids.” This district also includes another one of the state’s top programs in Mount Vernon. The Mustangs are looking to bounce back after finishing 4-5 last season. “This team works well together and they have good chemistry,” Mount Vernon coach Lance Pedersen

Independence Mustangs‌

HEAD COACH: Justin

Putz 2019 RECORD: 9-1 DID YOU KNOW? The Mustangs have been in the playoffs three out of the last six seasons after making only one appearance, prior, 1985.

said. “The offense will have some new wrinkles. There have been several position changes on the coaching staff and we look forward to these changes.” Center Point-Urbana is another school that drops down a class after competing in 3A last year. The Stormin’ Pointers finished third in a loaded district last year behind eventual state champion Western Dubuque and 2018 champion Cedar Rapids Xavier. CP-U is led by senior quarterback Keegan Koppedryer, who passed for 1,251 yards and four touchdowns while starting all nine games in 2019.

New Hampton Chickasaws‌

HEAD COACH: Scott

Frerichs 2019 RECORD: 5-4 DID YOU KNOW? In 27 seasons, Frerichs has compiled a 187-87 career mark.

North Fayette Valley TigerHawks‌

HEAD COACH: Justin

Heins 2019 RECORD:4-5 DID YOU KNOW? The TigerHawks haven’t been in the playoffs since 2016, their longest stretch since missing the field from 1997-99.

Oelwein Huskies‌

HEAD COACH: Bob Lape 2019 RECORD:2-7 DID YOU KNOW? Gage

Voshell is the top-returning rusher in Class 2A. The senior rushed for more than 1,300 yards last season, ranking fifth among all 2A rushers.

Waukon Indians‌

HEAD COACH: Chad

Beerman

2019 RECORD: 12-1 DID YOU KNOW? Coach

Beerman closed the 2019 season with exactly 150 career wins in 24 seasons as coach at Waukon and Valley of Elgin.

Players to Watch

2020 schedule

Keegan Koppedryer, Center Point-Urbana: He started

Aug. 28 – Camanche at Mount Vernon, Center Point-Urbana at Independence, Oelwein at Union, Vinton-Shellsburg at Benton, Williamsburg at Solon

all nine games last season, passing for 1,251 yards and four touchdowns. Carson Shive, Solon: Linebacker is top returning tackler after recording 77.5 total stops in 2019. Brady Ketchum, Mount Vernon: The senior started the past two seasons at quarterback, passing for 2,756 yards and 24 touchdowns. Brody Grawe, Center Point-Urbana: Senior linebacker collected 42 total tackles and one interception during the 2019 season. Brandon Tompkins, Union: The senior passed for 603 yards and rushed for 251 last year. He will move from quarterback to receiver as the team looks to add more speed to its offense. Cayden Knipper, Solon: The 6-foot-3, 225-pound junior played in the 3A state championship game last season and made big gains during the offseason.

Sept. 4 – Center Point-Urbana at Marion, Mount Vernon at Oelwein, South Tama at Grinnell, Union at Charles City, Washington at Solon Sept. 11 – Mount Vernon at Center Point-Urbana, Solon at Union, South Tama at Vinton-Shellsburg Sept. 18 – Union at Center Point-Urbana, Solon at South Tama, Vinton-Shellsburg at Mount Vernon Sept. 25 – Center Point-Urbana at South Tama, Union at Mount Vernon, Vinton-Shellsburg at Solon Oct. 2 – Center Point-Urbana at Vinton-Shellsburg, Mount Vernon at Solon, South Tama at Union. Oct. 9 – Solon at Center Point-Urbana, South Tama at Mount Vernon, Union at Vinton-Shellsburg.

Class 2A, District 6 capsules Center Point-Urbana‌

HEAD COACH: Dan Burke 2019 RECORD: 4-5 DID YOU KNOW? The

Stormin’ Pointers are back in 2A after finishing third in a loaded 3A district last season that included 2019 state champion Western Dubuque and 2018 champ Cedar Rapids Xavier. Burke is in his 13th season at CP-U.

Mount Vernon‌

Solon‌

South Tama‌

Union‌

HEAD COACH: Lucas

HEAD COACH: Nate

HEAD COACH: Jared

HEAD COACH: Jim

2019 RECORD: 4-5 DID YOU KNOW? The

2019 RECORD: 12-1

2019 RECORD: 0-9 DID YOU KNOW? The

2019 RECORD: 2-7 DID YOU KNOW? The

2019 RECORD: 3-6 DID YOU KNOW? The Vi-

Pedersen

Mustangs, one of the state’s top programs, have gone 44-22 over the past six seasons under Pedersen. Mount Vernon has excellent numbers with 70 players out for football in grades 9-12.

Stanton

overall, 5-0 district

DID YOU KNOW? The

Spartans have a new coach in Stanton, who was the head coach at Anamosa the past three seasons. Solon drops back to Class 2A after being the 3A state runner-up in 2019.

Doran

Trojans will look to rebound while dropping down a class this season after going winless in Class 3A in 2019.

Pospisil

Knights will look to return to their winning ways. Union’s streak of 11 straight playoff appearances was snapped last season. The Knights won state in 2011 and were second in 2016.

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HEAD COACH: Lance

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kings are hoping to make gains in a tough 2A district. Vinton-Shellsburg last made the playoffs in 2009.

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00 1


FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

Thursday, August 27, 2020 | C5

CLASS 1A, DISTRICT 4

Sailors have enough firepower Columbus looks to continue building on past success NICK PETAROS

nick.petaros@wcfcourier.com‌

‌WATERLOO — Brad Schmit has seen Waterloo Columbus stack a pair of successful seasons together. The Sailors make the move from Class 2A to 1A this fall, and Schmit has no plans on taking a step back. When Columbus won seven games in 2018, it matched the school’s win total from the previous seven seasons combined. The Sailors finished last year 8-2 with losses to Class 2A semifinalist Williamsburg and state runner-up Waukon. “A solid foundation has been laid over the past few seasons,” Schmit said. “Guys that were young that saw the success of the last groups, they know how business rolls. “It’s the type of deal where you’ve got to come in every day and practice hard. We talk about taking pride in preparation and if you do that throughout the week, we’ll live with the results.” Osage, Denver, Sumner-Fredericksburg, Jesup and Central Springs are the new challengers for the Sailors within Class 1A, District 4. “Dropping down a class, obviously that was out of our control, but I like where we’re at,” Schmit said. “The brand of

CHRIS ZOELLER, GLOBE GAZETTE‌

Columbus Catholic head coach Brad Schmit talks to his team after a recent practice in Waterloo. football we’ve played the last two years, that’s what we’re going to continue to do. We’re going to play good defense, good special teams. We’re going to run the football and do our job.” Columbus will look towards a new wave of playmakers after the graduation of 1,400-yard rusher Ray Seidel and tight end Ben Sinnott, who made a team-high 40 receptions with 14 receiving touchdowns. Quarterback Carter Gallagher and linebacker Dallas Westhoff return as key leaders following breakthrough sophomore seasons for the Sailors. Osage recovered from a 0-4 start to go undefeated in this district a season ago. The Green Devils return the weapons capable of contending for another title. Quarterback Colin Muller

enters his senior season after leading a potent Osage aerial attack with 2,123 passing yards and 24 touchdowns in 2019. Spencer Mooberry will be the featured running back. He averaged 8.2 yards per carry last season in addition to leading the team with 36 receptions for 630 yards and six touchdowns. Linebacker Briar Wagner ranked among the Green Devils’ defensive leaders with 54.5 tackles. While first year head coach Torian Wolf notes his team has holes to fill on the lines, he has plenty of speed and athletes that will make plays in space. “We have a lot of skill guys returning with a tradition of winning the district,” Wolf noted. “We have our sights set on making a state title run and it starts with winning the district.”

At Denver, the Cyclones return depth at wide receiver, running back and in the defensive backfield from a team that completed a 5-4 winning season in 2019. Starting quarterback Isaac Besh returns along with Braeden Powers, who averaged 5.7 yards on 65 carries and was one of the team’s leading tacklers as a sophomore. Osage handed Denver its lone district loss by a 24-7 margin last season. “We have a touch non-district schedule and an extremely challenging district schedule this year,” Denver coach Rhett Barrett noted. “Team goal is to qualify for the state playoffs (third round), get back to the dome and play every game like it is your last game in a Cyclone football uniform.” Elsewhere in the district, Sumner-Fredericksburg returns eight starters from a 3-6 team. Head coach Jacob Coyle enters his second season at the helm. “We have a very close group of young men with a lot of experience,” Coyle noted. Jesup also finished 3-6 last season and returns nine key contributors. “We have some depth in our skill positions, great team depth and experience on our offensive line,” Jesup coach Tim Sauer noted. Central Springs is searching for a bounce-back season after a 6-3 2018 fizzled to 3-6 in 2019.

Players to Watch Dallas Westhoff, Columbus: Finished

with 94 tackles, including seven for loss in 2019. The linebacker will be a key two-way weapon with reps at the fullback position. Colin Muller, Osage: The Green Devils quarterback threw for 2,123 yards and 24 touchdowns within a potent passing attack. Nathan Zupke, Sumner-Fredericksburg: Finished last season with six sacks, 10.5 tackles for loss and 60.5 tackles for the Cougars’ defense. Brodie Kresser, Jesup: Among quarterback Jase Pilcher’s top targets with 31 catches for 490 yards and eight touchdowns. He finished with 50 tackles and six interceptions on defense. Carter Gallagher, Columbus: Passed for 1,318 yards and 18 touchdowns versus six interceptions as a sophomore.

2020 schedule Aug. 28 — Hudson at Columbus, North Linn at Jesup, Postville at Sumner-Fredericksburg, St. Ansgar at Osage, Wapsie Valley at Denver, Nashua-Plainfield at Central Springs. Sept. 4 — Columbus at Vinton-Shellsburg, Jesup at Hudson, Sumner-Fredericksburg at North Fayette Valley, Osage at Clear Lake, South Hardin at Denver, Central Springs at North Butler. Sept. 11 — Columbus at Osage, Jesup at Central Springs, Denver at Sumner-Fredericksburg. Sept. 18 — Columbus at Central Springs, Denver at Jesup, Sumner-Fredericksburg at Osage. Sept. 25 — Sumner-Fredericksburg at Columbus, Osage at Jesup, Central Springs at Denver. Oct. 2 — Jesup at Columbus, Central Springs at Sumner-Fredericksburg, Denver at Osage. Oct. 9 — Columbus at Denver, Jesup at Sumner-Fredericksburg, Osage at Central Springs.

Class 1A, District 4 capsules Central Springs Panthers‌ HEAD COACH:

Bill Shafer 2019 RECORD: 3-6 DID YOU KNOW? Central Springs made its lone postseason trip in 2015. The Panthers were defeated by Dike-New Hartford in that playoff opener.

Columbus Sailors‌

Denver Cyclones‌

HEAD COACH: Brad

HEAD COACH: Rhett

2019 RECORD: 8-2

2019 RECORD: 5-4

DID YOU KNOW? Co-

DID YOU KNOW? Denver

Schmit

lumbus graduates its top two rushers and top four receivers from 2019. The Sailors are searching for their first playoff win since 2010.

Barrett

reached the UNI-Dome with semifinal runs in 2014-2016. The Cyclones’ most recent playoff appearance came in 2017.

Jesup J-Hawks‌

Osage Green Devils‌

Sumner-Fred. Cougars

HEAD COACH: Tim Sauer

HEAD COACH: Torian

HEAD COACH: Jacob

Dubuque Senior Rams‌

Iowa City West Trojans‌

Waterloo West Wahawks‌

HEAD COACH: Dale

HEAD COACH: Garrett

HEAD COACH: Lonnie

2019 RECORD: 3-6 DID YOU KNOW? Jesup

has never won a postseason football game. The J-Hawks’ most recently qualified for the 2015 playoffs.

Wolf 2019 RECORD: 5-5 DID YOU KNOW? Osage hasn’t lost a district game since making the move to Class 1A in 2018.

Coyle 2019 RECORD: 3-6 DID YOU KNOW? Sumner-Fredericksburg has made eight postseason appearances since consolidation, most recently in 2018.

Valley capsules Cedar Rapids Jefferson J-Hawks‌

Cedar Rapids Kennedy Cougars‌

HEAD COACH: Chris

HEAD COACH: Brian

Buesing 2019 RECORD: 4-5 DID YOU KNOW? Jefferson’s most recent winning season came in 2015. The J-Hawks finished 4-5 over the past four years, including last season.

00 1

White 2019 RECORD: 10-2 DID YOU KNOW? Kennedy quarterback and defensive back Max White is the great grandson of Max Hawkins, a 1939 Iowa Ironman alongside Nile Kinnick. The road next to Kinnick Stadium is named Hawkins Drive.

2020 schedule

Valley

Aug. 28 — Linn-Mar at Hempstead, Senior at Cedar Falls, Waterloo West at Waterloo East, Jefferson at Cedar Rapids Washington, Kennedy at Prairie, Iowa City West at Iowa City Liberty. Sept. 3 — Iowa City Liberty at Jefferson. Sept. 4 — Hempstead at Western Dubuque, Prairie at Senior, Cedar Falls at Waterloo West, Cedar Rapids Washington at Kennedy, Iowa City High at Iowa City West. Sept. 11 — Hempstead at Senior, Iowa City West at Waterloo West, Jefferson at Kennedy. Sept. 18 — Hempstead at Iowa City West, Kennedy at Senior, Waterloo West at Jefferson. Sept. 25 — Kennedy at Hempstead, Senior at Waterloo West, Iowa City West at Jefferson. Oct. 2 — Jefferson at Hempstead, Iowa City West at Senior, Waterloo West at Kennedy. Oct. 9 — Hempstead at Waterloo West, Senior at Jefferson, Kennedy at Iowa City West.

From C2

recruit Connor Colby anchoring the group. Second team all-state quarterback Max White will look to be more of a passing threat, in addition to his running prowess. “Interesting to be back in the MVC,” Kennedy coach Brian White noted. “Don’t know a lot about the other teams. We haven’t played most of them in several years. … We have a talented team.” Kennedy and Jefferson have been among the Cedar Rapids schools looking for a sense of normalcy on the football field as their community cleans up from a devastating derecho that tore through their city during the first week of official practices. “I texted a lot of those guys to make sure everything was OK and see if there was anything we could do on our side,” Moore said. “It’s unfortunate that stuff has happened for them. I know they’re going to do what’s best for their team and their program and make sure everyone is safe.”

Dubuque Hempstead Mustangs‌ HEAD COACH: Jeff Ho-

erner 2019 RECORD: 4-5 overall DID YOU KNOW? Hempstead’s most recent playoff appearance came in 2015. The Mustangs have finished 4-5 in each of the four seasons since that winning campaign. Coaches have noted Dubuque Senior and Hempstead may also be in mix atop the division. First-year head coach Jeff Hoerner takes the helm of a Hempstead team that returns 11 starters, including dual-threat quarterback Aidan Dunne who passed for 1,240 yards and rushed for 665 with 19 combined touchdowns. “We have experience at our skill positions on offense and defense and also on the offensive line and defensive line,” Hoerner noted. “We hope to be pretty explosive on offense and on defense we think we can match up well with our opponents.” Across town from Hempstead, Dubuque Senior put together a 5-5 playoff season in 2019. Rams’ running back Cain McWilliams rushed for 1,014 yards and eight scores as a junior. Offensive lineman Jim Bonifas has committed to Iowa State. Jefferson coach Chris Buesing notes team speed will be a strength of his J-Hawks following a 4-5 season. Iowa City West also finished 4-5 in 2019 with all four wins coming within its

Ploessl 2019 RECORD: 5-5 DID YOU KNOW? Senior made its fifth playoff appearance last season. The Rams have qualified for the postseason four times since 2012.

district. The Trojans bring back 17 players who started at least two games in 2019. Waterloo West’s 3-6 record accounts for the fewest returning wins among division teams. “It’s all about keeping guys healthy,” Moore said. “That’s probably hurt us a lot. We got through the first three, four games with some guys healthy and with some bumps and bruises. Then some key guys went down. … We’ve got to do whatever it takes to keep our guys healthy.”

Good Luck to all DNH Fall Activities! #ROLLBLUE

Hartwig 2019 RECORD: 4-5 overall DID YOU KNOW? Kicker Owen Smith earned allstate honors in 2019, a season in which he played football for the first time.

Moore

2019 RECORD: 3-6

overall

DID YOU KNOW? West

returns 11 starters and 10 other letterwinners. The Wahawks bring back five starters on the offensive line.

Players to watch

Connor Colby, Cedar Rapids Kennedy: An ESPN

All-American offensive lineman, Colby is a two-way impact player up front for the physical Cougars. Marcus Morgan, Iowa City West: Quarterback holds DI offers in football and baseball. Passed for 1,723 yards and finished last season with 13 touchdowns. Max White, Cedar Rapids Kennedy: Second team allstater rushed for 21 touchdowns and passed for seven more during a run to the 4A state semifinals. Nate Ewell, Waterloo West: Led the Wahawks with 73 tackles from his linebacker position during an active junior season. He’ll also take reps at wide receiver. Aidan Dunne, Hempstead: A quarterback and defensive back, Dunne rushed for seven touchdowns and passed for 1,240 and 12 scores in 2019. Jacob Cross, Jefferson: The returning second team allstate kicker and punter will often give the J-Haws a leg up on special teams.

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FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

C6 | Thursday, August 27, 2020

CLASS 1A, DISTRICT 3

Wolverines look towards new wave Next man in for a D-NH program that has found plenty of success JIM NELSON

jim.nelson@wcfcourier.com‌

Many of the familiar ‌ names that helped DikeNew Hartford to 22 wins the past two seasons are gone. Wolverine head coach Don Betts acknowledges there is more learning going on this preseason than in past seasons, but at the same time he really likes the look of the group of young men he will put on the field in 2020. “I don’t know if you ever expect success,” Betts responded, when asked if his program just reloads instead of rebuilds. Betts adds he doesn’t know if he’s got a bunch of Drew Sonnenbergs, Cade Bennetts or Parker Kiewiets in the fold, but notes that he has a bunch of kids who have been waiting in the wings for their opportunity. “We are hoping when they get their opportunity to play they can step up and do some of the things those other groups have done. That is yet to be determined. They have to make that stuff happen. Right now, they are just in the learning process.” The Wolverines return 11 letterwinners, including a handful of starters on both sides of the ball. Key players to watch are running backs Kaleb Brouwer and Drew Larsen, lineman Jacob Leohr and wide receiver Dane Fuller. “I think there are a lot of younger kids that have been working hard and it is their time to shine and they are going to do just fine,” said Brouwer, who led the team with 88 tackles, while playing significant snaps at fullback. Betts says his skill group is strong and he’s excited to see how Nathan Moore fares taking over for Sonnenberg at quarterback. Fuller, who

COURIER FILE PHOTO‌

Dike-New Hartford’s Dane Fuller escapes the tackle attempt by Panorama’s Lucas Leiferman during a Class 1A state playoff game in 2019. caught 24 passes for 399 yards and five scores last season, is an all-state caliber player. “We have a lot of good athletes,” Betts said. “What we got to get done is we have to solidify the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. It is not that we don’t have kids there, I just think it takes a little bit longer to come together at offensive and defensive line.” Fuller says he has to be one of the guys who step in and lead. “We lost something like 17 seniors from last year,” Fuller said. “I think the biggest thing for us is just being a leader. We need a lot of leaders.” “Of course we still have the same expectations,” Leohr said. “We are excited. We are also grateful to have the opportunity to play our

177 passes for 1,262 yards and 11 scores last season. He loses top receivers Jack HaAug. 28 – East Marshall at North Mahaska, Iowa Falls-Alren and Terrence Colar, but den at South Hardin, Aplington-Parkersburg at Clear Lake, brings back tight end Josh Dike-New Hartford at Oskaloosa, Hudson at Columbus, RoHaan, who had 13 catches land-Story at South Hamilton. for 182 yards. Sept. 4 –Denver at South Hardin, Aplington-Parkersburg at Linebacker Trevor Rule is West Marshall, Grundy Center at Dike-New Hartford, Jesup at the Falcons’ top-returning Hudson, South Hamilton at Madrid. tackler. Injuries slowed Hudson a Sept. 11 –East Marshall at South Hardin, Hudson at Aplingyear ago as the Pirates finton-Parkersburg, South Hamilton at Dike-New Hartford. ished 4-5. If there is a silver Sept. 18 –East Marshall at Hudson, South Hardin at South lining, a ton of young playHamilton, Dike-New Hartford at Aplington-Parkersburg, ers got valuable experience Sept. 25 – Aplington-Parkersburg at East Marshall, Dike-New for a program that won the Class A state title in 2018. Hartford at South Hardin, South Hamilton at Hudson. Running back Joe Culham Oct. 2 –South Hamilton at East Marshall, South Hardin at Ap- carried the ball 93 times for lington-Parkersburg, Hudson at Dike-New Hartford. 513 yards and three scores. Oct. 9 –East Marshall at Dike-New Hartford, South Hardin at Eight other players who received carries are also back. Hudson, Aplington-Parkersburg at South Hamilton. Junior Karter Krapfl was third on the team in tackles season with the whole virus Owen Thomas and three of- with 38. thing going on.” fensive linemen from a 5-4 South Hardin went 5-4 Aplington-Parkersburg squad. and returns several key conThomas completed 82 of tributors, including junior returns senior quarterback

2020 schedule

running back Waylen Butler who scored eight times while rushing for 389 yards on 96 carries. Senior wide receiver Beau Butler caught 42 passes for 709 yards and eight touchdowns. A team many head coaches pointed to as a dark horse is South Hamilton of Jewell. The Hawks have posted winning seasons the last three years and made a pair of playoff appearances while going 21-8 over that stretch. South Hamilton returns three key skill players on offense – quarterback Freddie Lewis, and running backs Brock Galetich and Trevor Thompson. Defensively, Dominic Summers and Colton Willis, who also play center and tackle on offense, were two of the Hawks top tacklers in 2019.

Class 1A, District 3 capsules AplingtonParkersburg Falcons‌

HEAD COACH: Alex

Pollock

2019 RECORD:5-4 DID YOU KNOW? The

Falcons have missed the last two state playoffs, the longest absence for A-P since it made its first appearance in 1992.

Dike-New Hartford Wolverines‌

HEAD COACH: Don Betts 2019 RECORD: 10-1 DID YOU KNOW? The

425 points the Wolverines scored during the 2019 regular-season broke a school record as DNH averaged 47.2 points a game.

East Marshall Mustangs‌

HEAD COACH: Matt

Bandstra 2019 RECORD: 1-8 overall DID YOU KNOW? The Mustangs have made just one playoff appearance in school history, 1992

Hudson Pirates‌

HEAD COACH: Justin

Brekke 2019 RECORD: 4-5 overall DID YOU KNOW? The 2018 state champions had a string of 10 consecutive playoff appearances snapped last fall during an injury-plagued season.

South Hamilton Hawks‌

HEAD COACH: Corey

Klemp 2019 RECORD: 6-3 overall DID YOU KNOW? The Hawks are the only participant in 1A-3 that is not a member of the North Iowa Cedar League. South Hamilton is a member of the Heart of Iowa Conference.

South Hardin Tigers‌

HEAD COACH: Nick Eller 2019 RECORD:

5-4 overall

DID YOU KNOW? The

Tigers have made only one playoff appearance, 2014, as a combined program. But Eldora-New Providence and Hubbard-Radcliffe have a combined 10 trips.

Players to Watch Dane Fuller, Dike-New

Hartford: 24 receptions, 399 yards, 5 TDs in 2019.

Owen Thomas, Ap-

lington-Parkersburg: Thomas passed for 1,262 yards and 10 scores as a junior.

Joe Culham, Hudson:

Culham led the Pirates with 513 rushing yards and three touchdowns.

Trevor Thompson,

South Hamilton: Thompson scored nine rushing touchdowns in 2019.

Waylen Butler, South

Hardin: Butler was one of the Tigers’ top performers last season as a sophomore.

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BRANDON POLLOCK, COURIER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER‌

Kaleb Brouwer of Dike-New Hartford tries to fend off Aplington-Parkersburg’s Jack Haren during a 2019 game.

00 1


FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

Thursday, August 27, 2020 | C7

CLASS A, DISTRICT 7

COURIER FILE PHOTO‌

Grundy Center’s quarterback Logan Knaack hands the ball off to Zach Opheim during last season’s Class A championship game against West Hancock.

Redhawks, Spartans vie for supremacy North Tama and Grundy Center both return strong squads JIM NELSON

Jim.nelson@wcfcourier.com‌

‌Travis Zajac understands why there is a buzz around his 2020 Grundy Center Spartans football team. Fresh off an appearance in the 2019 Class A state championship game, the Spartans return what many would consider a wealth of experience. All five starters on their offensive line plus the team’s leading rusher and starting quarterback are back. The defense returns 12 players who earned at least one start. Expectations outside of the program and around the community are sky high. “I think you have to be able to address the team in both ways,” Zajac said on whether he will temper the expectations or embrace them. “Obviously, everyone outside of us expects great things. We had 39 varsity kids last year and only had six seniors. So we return 33 players from last year. It’s been a real pleasure to have all those kids come back

because they are chomping at the bit. They want to get back after it.” While it is easy to see all the talent Grundy Center returns at the skill positions, the Spartans know it is up front on both sides of the ball that will get them back to where they want to be in November. Back are Nick Ascher, Austin Heltibridle, Trevor McMartin, Kolby Muller, Wes Willis and Brayden Sawyer. “We got to believe in each other and go hard all the time,” Muller said. “The only thing that can stop us is us.” The guys who will benefit from the Spartans line are running back Zach Opheim, quarterback Logan Knaack as well as Grundy Center’s top-two pass catchers from 2019 – Ascher and Jansen. Asher caught 31 passes for 503 yards and seven scores, while Jansen hauled in 21 receptions. Knaack is back after throwing for 1,334 yards and 12 scores, while Opheim churned his way to 1,461 rushing yards and 18 scores. Knaack added 839 rushing yards and also scored 18 rushing touchdowns. “We have to keep in mind that nothing is guaranteed and we got to go week-byweek, game-by-game and

Players to Watch

that will lead us to where we want to go,” Opheim said. “I’m pretty confident. I think we have a good team that can do some special things, but we have to keep our heads on straight and

just play.” “We got to stay humble. Our coaches tell us to never get too far ahead of ourselves and that you are never as bad as you think you are, but you are also never as good

as what you think you are.” As much as everybody wants to talk about how good his team will be, Zajac will continue to say North Tama is the district favorites. The Redhawks beat the Spartans for the district championship last season and return 11 letterwinners, including Noah Weber and Gabe Kopriva, who combined to rush for 1,609 yards and 22 touchdowns in 2019. “As far as I’m concerned North Tama is still the top dog,” Zajac said. “They had a couple of things go against them in the quarterfinals and if they don’t they are in the Dome playing in the semifinals. They are going to be a handful. They have a new coach, too, so they will probably do some new things schematically, but they still will be a handful.” Xander and Ashton Bradley along with Dylan Hosek and Adam Greiner are four other key contributors back for North Tama. Belle Plaine returns six all-district performers from a state qualifying team, including running back Luke DeMeulenaere, who rushed for 1,044 yards. North Mahaska, Lynnville-Sully and BCLUW combined to win just two games last season.

Noah Weber, North Tama: Weber rushed 130 times for

768 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2019. Zach Opheim, Grundy Center: Opheim rushed 252 times for 1,461 yards and 18 scores to lead the Spartans in rushing. Logan Knaack, Grundy Center: Knaack passed for 1,334 yards and 12 touchdowns, while also rushing for 839 yards and 18 more scores. Luke DeMeulenaere, Belle Plaine: Rushed for 1,044 yards and 11 touchdowns.

BRANDON POLLOCK, COURIER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER‌

Grundy Center’s Matt Jansen is tackled by North Tama’s Ashton Bradley during a game last season. The Spartans and Redhawks are two of the top teams in Class A, District 7 this season.

2020 Schedule Aug. 28 – North Butler at BCLUW, Grundy Center at Panorama, Colfax-Mingo at Lynnville-Sully, Belle Plaine at Lisbon, Alburnett at North Tama, East Marshall at North Mahaska. Sept. 4 – BCLUW at East Marshall, Dike-New Hartford at Grundy Center, Pleasantville at Lynnville-Sully, Belle Plaine at Pekin, South Winneshiek at North Tama, North Mahaska at Colfax-Mingo Sept. 11 – BCLUW at Lynnville-Sully, North Mahaska at Grundy Center, North Tama at Belle Plaine. Sept. 18 – Grundy Center at Lynnville-Sully, Belle Plaine at BCLUW, North Tama at North Mahaska, Sept. 25 – BCLUW at Grundy Center. Lynnville-Sully at North Tama, North Mahaska at Belle Plaine, Oct. 2 – BCLUW at North Mahaska, Grundy Center at North Tama, Lynnville-Sully at Belle Plaine, Oct. 9 – North Tama at BCLUW, Belle Plaine at Grundy Center, North Mahaska at Lynnville-Sully.

Class A, District 7 capsules BCLUW Comets‌

Belle Plaine Plainsmen‌

Grundy Center Spartans‌

Lynnville-Sully Hawks‌

North Mahaska Warhawks‌

North Tama Redhawks‌

HEAD COACH: Dustin

HEAD COACH: Todd

HEAD COACH: Travis

HEAD COACH:

HEAD COACH: Phil

HEAD COACH: Taylor

Grothoff 2019 RECORD:1-8 DID YOU KNOW? The Comets have not been in the postseason since 2013.

Bohlen 2019 RECORD:7-3 DID YOU KNOW? Six all-district performers return for the Plainesmen, including leading rusher Luke DeMeulenaere.

Zajac 2019 RECORD:11-2 DID YOU KNOW? The Spartans state title appearance last year was their first since Grundy Center won back-to-back in 1987 and 1988. The Spartans also won a title in 1984.

Mike Parkinson 2019 RECORD: 1-8 overall DID YOU KNOW?: Nine letterwinners return for the Hawks.

Griffin 2019 RECORD: 0-8 overall. DID YOU KNOW?: The Warhawks have played in four state championship games, winning in Class A in 2005, but have not been in the playoffs since 2009.

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FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

C8 | Thursday, August 27, 2020

CLASS A, DISTRICT 4

Warriors have stood at the top Wapsie Valley, South Winn set to renew rivalry ROD PAYNE

rod.payne@wcfcourier.com‌

Forty-four miles is all ‌ that separates two of the top contenders in Class A, District 4. And, in the COVID-19 shortened season, it won’t take long for those two opponents to find out who is top dog. That big test in the district will come on Sept. 25 when South Winneshiek traverses the 44 miles from Calmar to Fairbank to face Wapsie Valley. A rivalry has begun to form between the two teams both nicknamed the Warriors, and was fueled by a 28-26 overtime win by South Winneshiek last fall. “We have played Wapsie for the past six or seven years and it has really become an interesting rivalry,” said South Winneshiek coach Jason Ohrt. “We are very familiar with each other and both teams have a great tradition in football and it has carried over to other sports ,as well.” The Warriors will be well equipped with experience across the roster including Jake Herold, who has been an all-state quarterback the last two years. Herold completed 174 passes on 285 attempts going over 2,560 yards. He tossed 21 touchdowns in 2019. “Jacob is an outstanding athlete who has proven to be a great leader on the field as well,” said Ohrt. “We have a lot of good athletes around him as well. Zach Taylor will be back running the ball and he is ready for a breakout

Players to Watch Trevor Sauerbrei, Wap-

sie Valley: The senior tailback missed five games last year, but was a force to be reckoned with until his injury. In just five games, he had 97 carries for 675 yards and 12 touchdowns. Jake Herold, South Winneshiek: Herold made allstate the last two seasons by putting up staggering numbers. In 2019, the junior quarterback threw for 2,560 yards and found a stable of receivers to throw to with 21 touchdowns. Gabe McGeough, MFL Mar-Mac: As a junior, McGeough looks to take over the reins from the backfield after playing second fiddle to Kutter Anderson. McGeough put up good numbers with 638 yards COURIER FILE PHOTO‌ on the ground and hit the Wapsie Valley head coach Tony Foster looks on from the sidelines during a game against East Buchanan last season. Foster is end zone eight times. entering is 40th season at Wapsie Valley, 19th as the school’s head coach. Caleb Hughes, Postville: Enters his senior year as season. Cael Kuboushek the number one target will be getting a lot of opat wide receiver. Hughes portunities to tote the ball Aug. 28—Edgewood-Colesburg at Clayton Sept. 18—MFL MarMac at Clayton Ridge, picked up 237 yards and as well.” Postville at South Winneshiek Wapsie Valley Ridge, Maquoketa Valley at MFL MarMac, three scores, while averagTaylor rushed for 903 Postville at Sumner-Fredericksburg, East at Starmont. ing 21.5 yards per catch. yards on 140 carries while Buchanan at Starmont, South Winneshiek at Garrett Barnes, Wapsie Kuboushek averaged 6 yards North Fayette Valley, Wapsie Valley at Denver. Sept. 25—Starmont at MFL MarMac, South Valley: The senior defenWinneshiek at Wapsie Valley. per carry gaining 222 yards. sive end spent a lot of time Dominic Sisneros adds Sept. 4—Clayton Ridge at North Linn, MFL Oct. 2—South Winneshiek at MFL MarMac, in the opposing backfield MarMac at Alburnett, Postville at Nashanother weapon on spePostville at Wapsie Valley. with 37 tackles and two cial teams as he averaged ua-Plainfield, South Winneshiek at North sacks. Oct. 9—MFL MarMac at Postville, Starmont 26.8 yards per kick return, Tama, East Buchanan at Wapsie Valley. at South Winneshiek, Wapsie Valley at Clayreturning one for a touch- Sept. 11—South Winneshiek at Clayton Ridge, Bellis caught 38 balls last ton Ridge. down. year for 524 yards and 11 Wapsie Valley at MFL MarMac. Wapsie Valley is fully touchdowns. aware of the firepower in MFL Mar-Mac will chalCalmar, but according to We have a lot to get done in mind the other players that erbrei will tote the ball after lenge, as well, despite losing head coach Tony Foster, it a short time, namely replac- they need to be careful when missing the final five games some heavy weapons from last year due to injury. will be first things first. ing five starting offensive away from the game.” a 10-1 campaign last year. “I am kind of an older guy linemen. The Warriors bring back “We have plenty of weap- Two of its victories came and we won’t answer ques“We haven’t changed an arsenal of offensive ons to run the ball,” added against South Winneshiek, tions about what’s ahead,” anything on how we are power as quarterback Kobe Foster. “Jordan Rubner will including a 60-24 triumph said Foster. “We are getting getting ready because of Risse returns after throw- get a lot of time and when in the first round of the ready for Denver because the virus. We have relied on ing for 1,290 yards last year we throw the ball, Blayde Class A playoffs. that is who we play first. our senior group to help re- with 15 scores. Trevor Sau- Bellis will be a good target.”

2020 schedule

Class A, District 4 capsules Clayton Ridge Eagles‌

MFL Mar-Mac Bulldogs‌

Postville Pirates‌

South Winneshiek Warriors‌

Starmont Stars‌

Wapsie Valley Warriors‌

HEAD COACH:

HEAD COACH:

HEAD COACH:

HEAD COACH:

HEAD COACH:

HEAD COACH:

Chad Harbaugh 2019 RECORD:0-9 DID YOU KNOW? The Eagles struggled to mount an offense last season scoring just three touchdowns all year, with all three coming via the ground.

Dan Anderson 2019 RECORD: 10-1 DID YOU KNOW? The Bulldogs will have to reload quickly after graduating five key seniors off an offensive minded team that went 10-1 last year, making it to the quarterfinals.

Kevin Johnson 2019 RECORD: 4-5 DID YOU KNOW? The Pirates have not recorded a winning season since 2011.

Jason Ohrt 2019 RECORD: 7-3 DID YOU KNOW? Wapsie Valley and South Winneshiek put on quite a show last year with their game at South Winneshiek. The SW Warriors held off the WV Warriors in an exciting 28-26 overtime win.

Mike Augustine 2019 RECORD: 1-8 DID YOU KNOW? Will open the 2020 schedule against a familiar foe from the Tri-Rivers conference, at East Buchanan.

Tony Foster

2019 RECORDS: 5-4 DID YOU KNOW? In

2019 the Warriors suffered two overtime losses and a pair of losses on the final play of those games. Playing it close is not something the Warriors want to do this season.

CLASS A, DISTRICT 3

St. Angsar hopes to run it back CRAIG SESKER

Sports Correspondent‌

The St. Ansgar Saints ‌ came within an eyelash of playing for a state football championship last season. The Saints advanced to the Class A semifinals before suffering a heartbreaking 23-21 setback to eventual runner-up Grundy Center at the UNI-Dome. St. Ansgar returns plenty of firepower from the team that finished 11-1 in 2019. The Saints are set to make another deep playoff run as BRANDON POLLOCK, COURIER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER‌ they prepare to compete in St. Ansgar’s Ryan Cole pulls in a pass ahead of Grundy Class A District 3. Center’s Adam Hoy in the second half of a 2019 state football “Our kids are excited semifinal in the UNI-Dome. to be back out on the field

again and our preseason has gone really well,” St. Ansgar coach Drew Clevenger said. “We are eager to get going after last year and with the way things ended. Our goals are the same as they are every year. We want to win the district title and make a strong run in the playoffs. We’re looking forward to the challenge.” St. Ansgar has all the makings of an outstanding running team. The Saints bring back four of five starters on the offensive line while also returning standout running back Ryan Cole. Cole, a senior, rushed for 1,143 yards and 20 touch-

downs last season. He averaged nearly 10 yards per carry. Cole also caught eight passes for 155 yards and two scores as a junior. “Ryan will be a three-year starter on both sides of the ball,” Clevenger said. “He made a big jump with his play last year. He’s an excellent running back and he’s also a lockdown cornerback on defense. He’s an experienced player who is a great leader for us. “Our offensive line, those guys up front are hungry. They have experience and they know what to expect. They’re anxious for the season to get started.”

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St. Ansgar also has top rushers back in seniors Carter Salz (337 yards) and Derek Peterson (257) along with junior Lorne Isler (167). Salz is the top returning tackler after recording 55.5 stops at linebacker. Cole (46 tackles), Isler (40) and Peterson (32) are key contributors on defense. Cole had four interceptions and Peterson three last season. “We’ve been to the semifinals three of the last four years, and we are 0-3 in the semis,” Clevenger said. “That’s not lost on our kids, but right now we are just focused on getting better and preparing for Week 1. We have to be at our best each and every Friday.” St. Ansgar opens the season with a tough test, traveling to face returning Class 1A playoff qualifier Osage on the road. “Nothing we did in 2019 will help us in 2020,” Clevenger said. “We have a chance to have a good team, but nothing will be given to us. We have to work for it

adiowa.com

Please see CLASS A, District 3, C11

00 1


FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

Thursday, August 27, 2020 | C9

8 PLAYER, DISTRICT 3

Dons look to extend reign Players to Watch

Defending 8-player champ Don Bosco favored to repeat

Cael Frost, Don

CRAIG SESKER

Sports Correspondent‌

‌The Don Bosco Dons were the kings of 8-player football in Iowa last season. And the they possess the type of firepower to continue their reign again this year. Don Bosco is led by senior standout Cael Frost, an excellent all-around athlete who was a key member of state championship teams in football, wrestling and baseball as a junior. The 6-foot, 185-pound Frost enters his third season as the starting quarterback for the Dons. The first team all-state pick is a dual threat who passed for 1,389 yards and rushed for 1,236 yards in 2019. “Cael is a great leader and he’s an extremely versatile player,” Don Bosco coach Colby Yoder said. “Cael can run and he can throw – you have to really prepare for him. He’s obviously an experienced and proven player, and he’s just a great kid. He’s done an outstanding job for us.” Yoder begins his 11th season as head coach at Don Bosco. The Dons are seeking their fifth state title in the last eight seasons. Don Bosco returns five starters on offense and three on defense from the team that rolled to a 13-0 record in 2019. The three returning defensive starters each earned all-state honors last season. That group includes Carson and Cade Tenold, and Cedric Yoder. Carson Tenold plays outside linebacker with Cade Tenold and Yoder, the coach’s son, at defensive end. Cade Tenold led Don Bosco with 91.5 total tackles last season. Carson Tenold had 78 tackles. Yoder had 42 tackles. Don Bosco is just a few weeks removed from winning a state championship in baseball with the power-hitting Frost leading the way.

COURTESY PHOTO‌

Don Bosco returns several key players from last year’s state championship run. That group includes, front row, from left, Dillon Welter, Cael Rahnavardi, Charlie Hogan, back row, from left, Cedric Yoder, Carson Tenold, Cade Tenold, Cael Frost.

2020 schedule Aug. 28 – Central City at Springville, Don Bosco at West Central, Easton Valley at Janesville, Kee High at Central Elkader, Midland at Dunkerton Sept. 4 – Central City at Easton Valley, Dunkerton at Don Bosco, Midland at Tripoli, Springville at Central Elkader, West Central at Kee High. Sept. 11 – Central Elkader at Midland, Dunkerton at West Central, Clarksville at Springville, Don Bosco at Central City. Sept. 18 – Central Elkader at Don Bosco, Easton Valley at Springville, Kee High at Central City, Rockford at Dunkerton, West Central at Midland. Sept. 25 – Central City at Dunkerton, Don Bosco at Easton Valley, Springville at Don Bosco, West Central at Central Elkader. Oct. 2 – Central City at Midland, Dunkerton at Central Elkader, Riceville at West Central, Springville at Don Bosco. Oct. 9 – Central Elkader at Northwood-Kensett, Easton Valley at Dunkerton, Kee High at Don Bosco, Midland at Springville, West Central at Central City. “This group of seniors has been at the pinnacle in every sport,” Yoder said. “They’ve won state titles in football, wrestling and baseball– they know what to expect when the stakes are high. They understand what it takes and they know how to peak at the right time. They thrive under pressure and believe they can

do it.” Yoder said the team has looked strong in preseason practices. “It’s just a really good group of kids who have a very good work ethic,” he said. “They are a fun group to coach. When it’s time to compete, they are ready to go. I don’t have to say a

COURIER FILE PHOTO‌

Don Bosco’s Cael Frost passes to Lewis Havel during the 2019 8-player state championship game against Audubon in the UNI-Dome. whole lot to motivate this group. They’re always up for the next challenge.” The Dons are in 8-player, District 3 along with fellow returning playoff qualifiers Easton Valley and Midland. Don Bosco powered past Easton Valley 67-28 in the 2019 state quarterfinals. Midland reached the state semifinals in 2016 and 2017, falling both years to eventual champion Don Bosco. Springville is another strong team in this district.

The Orioles went 7-3 last season. They return running back Spencer DeMean, who rushed for 1,043 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. “We have a lot of athletes who can play multiple positions on both sides of the ball,” Springville coach Joe Martin said. “We are in a very strong district and we will have to be ready to play. We have a chance to have a successful season, but it won’t be easy.”

Bosco: The starting quarterback on last year’s state championship team is a dual threat as a top passer and runner. He rushed for over 1,000 yards and passed for over 1,000 yards as an allstate junior. Marshal Van DeVegte, Central City: He was a first-team all-state selection as a junior. He converted on four field goals, including a 41-yarder, and also had 24 touchbacks last season. He also caught 28 passes for 378 yards. Spencer DeMean, Springville: A twoway starter at running back and defensive back, DeMean rushed for 1,043 yards and totaled 45 tackles in 2019. Carson and Cade Tenold, Don Bosco: The talented twins, who also excel in wrestling, earned all-state honors on defense for the state champion Dons in 2019. Aiden Nelson, West Central: The threeyear starter at receiver already holds school records for catches and yards in a career. Grant Gloeckner, Springville: The all-district selection collected 73 tackles and two fumble recoveries last season at linebacker. Damon Weber, Kee High: The junior rushed for 693 yards and passed for 383 in 2019. He also had 61.5 tackles at linebacker. Riley Moulds, Dunkerton: The senior QB passed for 712 yards and rushed for 327 a year ago. Teammate Kaden Behrens is back after rushing for 638 yards in 2019.

8 player, District 3 capsules Central City‌ Wildcats HEAD COACH:

Matt Miers 2019 RECORD: 4-5 DID YOU KNOW? Central City shoots for a winning season while returning six key starters. Ethan Tye leads the way after earning second team all-district honors at defensive back. He had 52 tackles and two interceptions.

Central Elkader‌ Warriors HEAD COACH:

Joe Koehn 2019 RECORD: 0-9 DID YOU KNOW? Junior quarterback Evan Schroeder is the leader on a fast-paced, versatile offense that will try to keep opponents guessing.

Don Bosco‌ Dons

Dunkerton‌ Raiders

HEAD COACH:

HEAD COACH:

Colby Yoder 2019 RECORD: 13-0 DID YOU KNOW? The Dons have appeared in six of the past eight state championship games, winning four 8-player titles. Don Bosco is a combined 29-5 in the postseason over the last decade.

Jon Steffen 2019 RECORD: 1-8 DID YOU KNOW? The Raiders will seek to recapture past glory when they made the postseason three straight years from 2008-10.

Easton Valley‌ River Hawks HEAD COACH:

Tony Johnson 2019 RECORD: 9-2 DID YOU KNOW? The River Hawks will look to build on a strong 2019 season where they advanced to the quarterfinals of the playoffs before falling to eventual champ Don Bosco.

Kee High‌ Hawks

Midland‌ Eagles

Springville‌ Orioles

HEAD COACH:

HEAD COACH:

HEAD COACH:

Chad Winters 2019 RECORD: 2-7 DID YOU KNOW? The Hawks earned seven postseason berths from 2007-14 and are seeking a turnaround after a twowin season last fall.

Lennie Miller 2019 RECORD: 7-3 DID YOU KNOW? The Eagles landed their fifth consecutive postseason berth in 2019. Midland made the 8-player semifinals in 2016 and 2017 before falling both years to eventual champion Don Bosco.

Joe Martin 2019 RECORD: 7-3 DID YOU KNOW? The Orioles have high hopes coming off a seven-win season. They are looking to make a splash in the postseason after making three playoff appearances from 2012-15.

West Central‌ Blue Devils HEAD COACH:

Steve Milder

2019

RECORD: 1-8

DID YOU

KNOW? Milder is beginning his 49th season as a football coach, spending the last 43 falls at West Central. He has 237 career wins, including 223 with the Blue Devils.

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FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

C10 | Thursday, August 27, 2020

8 PLAYER, DISTRICT 2

Winners set to renew rivalries Seven of the nine teams in this district had winning records in 2019 ROD PAYNE

rod.payne@wcfcourier.com‌

‌If there is any indication how tough the road will be to traverse during the 2020 8-player, District 2 season, one has to look no further than the fact the seven or the nine members produced winning seasons last fall. But a consensus of district coaches say Northwood-Kensett and Turkey Valley of Jackson Junction are two destinations the district title will run through. The Vikings are coached by Dave Capitani who is a Hall of Famer, and while the Trojans fell one game short of reaching the championship game in 2019. “They have to be the favorites because they are returning a lot of talent from last year,” said Janesville head coach Dale Eastman of the Vikings. “We were looking forward to playing them to open the season, but the schedules were changed (due to COVID-19). “We still face a tough district and we will rely on our speed and athletic abilities to get through. We are a little small and we need to learn to be more physical at the line of scrimmage.” The AGWSR Cougars have a little more size, but lack the experience after graduating several seniors that led them to a 7-2 record.

COURIER FILE PHOTO‌

AGWSR’s Chase Harms is tackled by a player from Gladbrook-Reinbeck during a game last season. Harms is one of the Cougars top returning players. “Turkey Valley and Northwood definitely would be the two I would pick right now,” said Cougars coach James Koop. “We have so many good teams in this district it would be hard to predict, but those two clubs would be favored because of the top programs they run and the consistent winning ways each year. “We have a lot of new faces and some familiar faces that will probably have to fill some new positions. We will have to work hard to get that experience and learn how to play well in those big games.” It will be running back by committee for the Cougars

as nine different ball carriers had 10 totes or more in 2019. Senior Jaden Penning led the pack with 88 carries and 737 yards while crossing the goal line 17 times. Penning also had 387 yards on 22 catches while finding pay dirt another five times. The Cougars’ big task will be to replace graduating quarterback, Titan Opperman, who threw for 1,047 yards and 15 scores. A dark horse in this rough district could be a Tripoli Panthers coming off a 5-4 season. With a lot of returning experience from that squad, coach Joe Urbanek is optimistic of his teams chances

Get The Courier’s headlines on command through your Alexa device. Simply say: “Alexa, enable Waterloo Cedar Falls Courier Daily News Skill” and your Alexa will automatically add The Courier’s Daily News Briefing.

as long as they learn one important rule. “We need to learn how to finish close games,” said Urbanek. “We lost some last year that we should not have after having a lead. We just could not close them out. If we can learn from those situations and stay healthy, we feel we can be in the mix when we get to the end.” Blake Brocka should receive more looks from quarterback Conner Piehl this year, improving on his 197 yards on the ground and 180 catching out of the backfield. Senior defensive lineman Ethan Schellorn will try to build on his 14.5 tackles for a loss from 2019.

Sept. 4—North Iowa at Riceville, Northwood-Kensett at Clarksville, Janesville at AGWSR, Midland at Tripoli, Turkey Valley at Rockford. Sept. 11—AGWSR at Turkey Valley, Clarksville at Springville, Janesville at North Iowa, Riceville at Rockford, Tripoli at Northwood-Kensett. Sept. 18—North Iowa at AGWSR, Clarksville at Janesville, Northwood-Kensett at Turkey Valley, Riceville at Tripoli, Rockford at Dunkerton. Sept. 25—AGWSR at Rockford, Kee, Lansing at North Iowa, Turkey Valley at Clarksville, Janesville at Tripoli, Northwood-Kensett at Riceville. Oct. 2—Tripoli at AGWSR, Clarksville at North Iowa, Riceville at West Central, Rockford at Northwood-Kensett, Turkey Valley at Janesville.

Players to Watch Carson Pariseau, Janesville: Was a beast from the backfield rushing for 1,228 yards on

138 totes. Pariseau found the end zone 19 times, as well, and accumulating 76.5 tackles from the defensive side. Jaden Penning, AGWSR: Penning is gearing up for a great senior season after rushing for 737 yards and 17 touchdowns last year. Brandon Varner, Northwood-Kensett: Made his presence known in 2019 as he picked up 689 yards on 129 carries. He scored 15 touchdowns. Ethan Schellhorn, Tripoli: Was all over the field in 2019, recording 79 tackles and making 14.5 of those behind the line of scrimmage. Wiley Sherburne, Janesville: This junior looks to build on his 180 yards and three scores from last season out of the tight end position.

8 player, District 2 capsules AGWSR Cougars‌

Northwood-Kensett Vikings‌

Rockford Warriors‌

HEAD COACH:

HEAD COACH:

HEAD COACH:

James Koop 2019 RECORD: 7-2 DID YOU KNOW? That the Cougars will play teams that combined for 48 wins last year. That will put pressure on junior QB James Davis to move the offense.

Clarksville Indians‌ Bob Goeller 2019 RECORD: 0-0 DID YOU KNOW?: Clarksville was in a sharing agreement with North Butler last season and did not play under the Indians colors.

Janesville Wildcats‌ HEAD COACH:

Don’t have an Alexa device? You can also listen to The Courier’s Beyond The Stories Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Aug. 28—AGWSR at Clarksville, Easton Valley at Janesville, North Iowa at Northwood-Kensett, Rockford at Tripoli, Riceville at Turkey Valley.

Oct. 9—AGWSR at Riceville, North Iowa at Turkey Valley, Central Elkader at Northwood-Kensett, Tripoli at Clarksville, Rockford at Janesville.

HEAD COACH:

After that, just say: “Alexa, what’s my flash briefing?” and you’ll hear the latest briefing. Listen to a new briefing every morning.

2020 schedule

Dale Eastman 2019 RECORD: 6-3 DID YOU KNOW? The Wildcats will be a smaller team than in past years, but the combination of their speed and athleticism will make up for that on both sides of the ball.

Dave Capitani 2019 RECORD: 6-3 DID YOU KNOW? Until last year, the Vikings had not missed the playoffs for eight seasons. In a district battle for a playoff spot in 2019, the Vikings dropped a heartbreaker to Rockford losing their shot at a berth.

North Iowa Bison‌ HEAD COACH:

Brad Kemnitz 2019 RECORD: 1-8 DID YOU KNOW? The Bison won a thrilling 3430 matchup with West Bend Mallard to start off the 2019 campaign, but never got back into the win column after that.

Riceville Wildcats‌ HEAD COACH: Stef Fair 2019 RECORD: 4-5 DID YOU KNOW? Three

of the Wildcats losses last season were by six points or less.

Clay Eustice 2019 RECORD: 7-3 DID YOU KNOW? Tripoli held a 20-0 lead over a 7-3 Rockford team, but failed to keep them down, as the Warriors rallied big time for a 38-20 victory in 2019.

Tripoli Panthers‌ HEAD COACH:

Joe Urbanek 2019 RECORD: 5-4 DID YOU KNOW? Conner Piehl returns for the Panthers at quarterback, after throwing for 753 yards last year and 16 touchdowns. Piehl also kept the ball himself and found the end zone seven times.

Turkey Valley Trojans‌ HEAD COACH: Mark Scott 2019 RECORD: 11-1 DID YOU KNOW? Turkey

Valley’s last season of below .500 ball came in 2012. Last year the Trojans made it to the semifinals where they lost to eventual state champion Don Bosco.

00 1


FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

COVID-19 From C1

Coaches speaking through masks are trying to make sure their voice doesn’t get muffled as they dictate points of emphasis from tackling angles to securing goal-line stands. Athletes pull fabric over their faces or facemasks when the team huddles together to receive instruction. “Wearing these, it’s not the most comfortable deal, but at the same time it is what it is and it’s out of our control,” Colum-

bus coach Brad Schmit said. “If they tell us we need to do this and there’s going to be a better chance of getting a season in, I’m willing to do whatever it takes to get it in and make sure everybody stays healthy.” Beyond masks, sanitizers occupy an additional table on the sideline of practice fields. Football players are being screened daily for symptoms of COVID-19. “If we get any alerts that they have a headache or muscle soreness, we’ve got to check on that real quick,” West coach Lonnie Moore said. “Especially after sit-

ting out all of March and April, they are excited about being out here. They’re taking on all the challenges that comes with it and understand.” West went as far as to suspend offseason team workouts and weightlifting from July 29 until Aug. 5. “Guys were exposed to some people with COVID-19 so we wanted to make sure the team was safe,” Moore said. “That’s number one. We’re doing everything in our power to make sure everyone is safe.” Organized team activities

Thursday, August 27, 2020 | C11

statewide were moved back from early June to July this past summer. Athletes have been working in pods of five to 10 within their position groups. Limited numbers rotate through the weight room. “What we thought was going to be a challenge at the beginning was working out in pods,” Mickey said. “Not getting reps with the full team was going to be tough, but honestly I think it has been a positive because I’ve been closer with my linebackers and defense. “It’s been fun getting to know them. We feel more like a family

now that we’re in pods and we all have a better idea of what we’re doing because it’s a lot more oneon-one time.” A successful fall will go beyond the practice and playing field. Schools must be vigilant to avoid shutdowns that could cancel activities across the board. “It’s been different, but our kids want to play,” Cedar Falls coach Brad Remmert said. “I hope our student body, when they come back, that they’ll do the things that are going to help all extracurriculars have a chance to play and thrive this fall.”

Class A, District 3

Players to Watch

2020 schedule

From C8

Ryan Cole, St. Ansgar: Rushed for 1,143

Aug. 28 – Belmond-Klemme at West Fork, Forest City at Lake Mills, Mason City Newman at North Union, Nashua-Plainfield at Central Springs, North Butler at BCLUW, St. Ansgar at Osage

and we have to earn it.” Lake Mills is another veteran team in this district as it features a strong 16-member senior class. Senior linebacker Caleb Bacon earned first team all-state honors in 2019. The Bulldogs drop down a class after going 4-5 in Class 1A last season. “We have an experienced group of kids on the offensive and defensive lines, and in the offensive backfield,” Lake Mills coach Bill Byrnes said. “The key to our success will be running the ball and controlling the clock on offense.”

Lake Mills is scheduled to play at St. Ansgar in the final regular-season game Oct. 9. “Lake Mills has a nice group of seniors,” Clevenger said. “We played them two years ago at the sophomore level and they have some good players. They have one of the best players in north Iowa with the Bacon kid. He’s a quality athlete and a quality football player.” West Fork is another team to watch in this district after going 5-4 last season. Mason City Newman also could be a factor with a strong group of talented young players.

yards and 20 touchdowns last season while averaging nearly 10 yards per carry. He also recorded 46 tackles and had four interceptions. Caleb Bacon, Lake Mills: He was an all-state linebacker last season after recording 92 tackles, including 21 for loss. He has drawn recruiting interest from Iowa, Northern Iowa and Minnesota State-Mankato. Carter Salz, St. Ansgar: Rushed for 337 yards and five touchdowns in 2019. Team’s top returning tackler with 55.5. Casey Hanson, Lake Mills: Rushed for 561 yards and six touchdowns last season. He’s also a top linebacker on defense. Derek Peterson, St. Ansgar: Rushed for 257 yards while averaging nearly 10 yards per carry last season. Recorded 32 tackles and three interceptions on defense

Sept. 4 – Central Springs at North Butler, Garner Hayfield Ventura at St. Ansgar, Lake Mills at Belmond-Klemme, Mason City Newman at Algona Garrigan, Nashua-Plainfield at Postville, West Fork at Hampton-Dumont Sept. 11 – Mason City Newman at West Fork, North Butler at Lake Mills, St. Ansgar at Nashua-Plainfield Sept. 18 – Nashua-Plainfield at Lake Mills, West Fork at St. Ansgar, Mason City Newman at North Butler Sept. 25 – Lake Mills at Mason City Newman, Nashua-Plainfield at West Fork, St. Ansgar at North Butler Oct. 2 – North Butler at Nashua-Plainfield, St. Ansgar at Mason City Newman, West Fork at Lake Mills Oct. 9 – Lake Mills at St. Ansgar, Mason City Newman at Nashua-Plainfield, North Butler at West Fork

Class A, District 3 capsules Lake Mills‌ Bulldogs

Mason City Newman‌ Knights

Nashua-Plainfield‌ Huskies

North Butler‌ Bearcats

St. Ansgar‌ Saints

West Fork‌ Warhawks

HEAD COACH: Bill By-

HEAD COACH: Richard

HEAD COACH: Andrew

HEAD COACH: Jordan

HEAD COACH: Drew Cle-

HEAD COACH: James

rnes 2019 RECORD: 4-5 DID YOU KNOW? The Bulldogs move to Class A for the first time and have their sights set on a district title with a strong, experienced and talented team.

McCardle 2019 RECORD: 2-7 DID YOU KNOW? The Knights struggled last season after reaching the Class A state quarterfinals in 2018. Newman has a talented young group that could make a big splash.

Christensen 2019 RECORD: 1-8 DID YOU KNOW? The Huskies will look to bounce back this fall. They made the playoffs five times from 2008-14.

Vanderloop 2019 RECORD: 1-8 DID YOU KNOW? The Bearcats return 13 starters and are stronger on the defensive side of the ball with a number of excellent athletes. North Butler moves down a class after competing in 1A.

venger 2019 RECORD: 11-1 DID YOU KNOW? The Saints have made the playoffs 13 of the past 14 seasons, reaching the state semifinals three of the past four seasons.

Perez

2019 RECORD: 5-4 DID YOU KNOW? The

Warhawks are looking to build on their winning season from 2019. West Fork last qualified for the postseason 10 years ago.

2020 Gallery of Homes magazine available Sunday, Sept. 13

Find your copy in Sunday’s Courier and on racks throughout the Cedar Valley

Check out our interactive gallery and magazine. See all our niche publications at: WCFCourier.com bookshelf

Parade of Homes Dates/Times

* Purchase tickets at cedarvalleyhomebuilders.com

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Thursday Sept. 17 Friday, Sept. 18 Saturday, Sept. 19 Sunday, Sept. 20

6 to 9 p.m. 6 to 9 p.m. 1 to 4 p.m. 1 to 4 p.m.

$6 Aug. 1 through 31* $8 Sept. 1 through Sept. 20* $10 available at homes on Parade day

Presented by: Veridian Credit Union, Cedar Valley Home Builders Association, Cedar Valley Home & Garden/Gallery of Homes/The Courier


C12 | Thursday, August 27, 2020

FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

COURIER FILE PHOTO‌

St. Mary’s Kenny Bohnenkamp, left, and Canaan Cox, right, thank the fans and show the trophy after losing 52-14 to Don Bosco in the 8-player state title game in 2017. In a one-time format, all schools in all classes will qualify for the state playoffs in 2020.

Playoffs From C1

collaboration among conferences. The “Everybody Qualifies” plan marks the first time that every Iowa high school will qualify for the playoffs. When the IHSAA initiated its first playoff system in 1972 there were four qualifiers in four classes. The playoff field expanded to eight qualifiers per class in 1975. In 1984, Classes 3A, 2A, 1A and A grew to 16. Class 4A followed suit in 1986. When eightplayer football was introduced, four teams initially qualified in that division, with the field moving to eight in 2002 and 16 in 2006. From 2008 to 2015 the playoff field was increased to 32 teams before the IHSAA reversed course and reduced the fields back to 16 in 2016. “I don’t like the idea of losing a couple of games,” Dike-New

Hartford head coach Don Betts said. “But, I love the idea of everybody gets a chance to be in the playoffs. I’m a big fan of the more teams in the better for the sport and the kids, because at the end of the day we are doing this for the kids. “The more kids experiencing being in the playoffs … I’m excited about that part of it.” While regular-season success will help determine playoff seeding, the coaches aren’t sure exactly how the new playoff field will look. “I don’t think the association knows how it is going to look either,” said Betts, when asked what will happen if some teams don’t finish their seasons because of COVID-19 stoppages. “That is OK,” continued Betts. “They will figure it out and we all will give it a run. It is going to be an interesting year in how it plays out.” “We will see what happens at the end,” adds Zajac. “Hopefully we have a full field. Hopefully all

teams take care of themselves to allow us to get to that point. There are so many unknowns, but again, we just appreciate the opportunity to come outside and practice.” With a guaranteed playoff spot already in hand, it poses another question to area coaches. Do you rest some players late so they are fresh for the postseason? Waterloo West head coach Lonnie Moore wants to make sure he isn’t pushing his team too hard during the middle of the season. “The last couple of years injures have hurt us, so we as a coaching staff decided to make sure we scale back a little bit around weeks four, five and six and try to keep guys healthy,” Moore said. “We’re excited about the opportunity. The last time we were in the playoffs we didn’t do too well in the first round. One of our goals this year is to be in the playoffs, but also to win a firstround game.” At Independence, Putz said his

mantra to the Mustangs is to attack every opportunity presented in front of them. “Whether it is the offseason, seven-on-seven, install night, preseason practice to prepare to play nine games, we tell them not to take anything for granted,” Putz said. “You’ve always gotten nine guaranteed opportunities. This season, you can’t look at it and say any opportunities are guaranteed.” Betts’ message is similar. “I don’t think you ever back off,” said Betts, who is entering his 14th season, in response to whether he might rest a key player late in the season. “I’m not a believer in that. I think you are doing a disservice to your kids if you’re doing that. “We only have a limited amount of time, even in a ninegame season, that is not many games for the kids who put the time in year-round to play football. I don’t think you want to take any of those opportunities away from them.”

Iowa playoff history 1972—The IHSAA began its first playoff system with four qualifiers in four classes. 1975—Playoff field expands to eight qualifiers per class. 1984—Class 3A, 2A, 1A and A grow to 16 teams. 1986—Class 4A expands to 16 qualifiers. 1998—Eight-player football begins with a four-team playoff. 2002—Eight-player expands to an eight-team playoff. 2006—Eight-player expands to 16 qualifiers. 2008—All classes move to 32 qualifiers. 2016—Playoff field is reduced back to 16 qualifiers per class. 2020—Every team in the state qualifies for the playoffs.

TRUST IN TEAMWORK

We celebrate all the student athletes competing this season. The grit, determination, and spirit you bring to the promise of a bright future. Trust in Tomorrow.®

First Maxfield Mutual Denver, IA 1-800-366-7014 • www.firstmaxfield.com “Trust in Tomorrow” and “A Grinnell Mutual Member” registered trademarks of Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company. © Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company, 2019. 00 1


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