Impact 2018

SPORTS FALL 2018

A.L. swimmer seeks 6th state berth Wednesday, September 5, 2018

Albert Lea boys’ soccer finds new identity

ALBERT LEA / GLENVILLE-EMMONS / ALDEN-CONGER / NRHEG / UNITED SOUTH CENTRAL / LAKE MILLS / NORTHWOOD-KENSETT

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FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK

2018 Starting 4

8

4

Albert Lea football returns 19 of 22 starters from last year’s squad

11

Albert Lea volleyball gets new leader set on making a positive impact

23

Alden-Conger volleyball hopes to avenge early round section loss from 2017

25

Northwood-Kensett football sets goal looking for a playoff berth

AL boys’ soccer replaces 13 seniors Knights look to replace several key positions in 2018

PAGE 22

6

16

FALLSPORTSYEARBOOK

ANOTHER TRIP TO STATE

CONTINUED DOMINATION

Albert Lea senior Emily Taylor hopes for sixth consecutive state swim meet bid

Lake Mills volleyball program hunting for 15th straight conference title

Editor Tyler Julson Contributing writers Tyler Julson, Colleen Harrison, Sarah Kocher, Sam Wilmes and Bethany Tennis Cover design by Colleen Harrison Cover photo Albert Lea boys’ soccer’s Tim Kruen, Zach Slegh and Cole Indrelie Photos by Colleen Harrison, Tyler Julson and Lory Groe

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ALBERT LEA

FOOTBALL

By Tyler Julson

T

he Tigers football team comes into the 2018 season returning many starters from a season ago, which has head coach Corey Black excited to start the year.

Entering his third year as head coach, Black said this team is going to have a new feel to them, because many of the players have had varsity experience and now know what is expected.

“There should be a new look and a new atmosphere to the season,” Black said. “We are not a young team anymore and are looking to turn the corner on some of the teams in the district.”

Returning letter winners this season include seniors Cristian Garcia, Brady Nielsen, Ian Ball, Brody Dauer, Cole Wentzel, Spencer Doyle, Dylan Scherff, Dylan Studier, Carter Simon, Isaac Moyer, Kolby Eriksmoen and Dane Brownlow, and juniors Hayden Johnston, Gavyn Tlamka and Javarus Mucha-Owens.

Wentzel and Johnston were named to the All-District team last year and Simon was named as an honorable mention.

Black described Wentzel as the linchpin to the defense this year and will lead the offense at quarterback after leading the team in rushing yards in 2017.

The offensive line consisting of Johnston, Garcia, Tlamka, Ball, Nielsen and Dauer each started at least three games for the Tigers last

CARTER SIMON

year, and nine of the starters on defense return. However, they don’t have a lot of depth and could be in a bad spot should anyone go down.

“We are very experienced as we return 19 of 22 starters from last year’s team,” Black said. “However, we are not very deep and can be in trouble with injuries.”

He said the key to this year’s success is going to be the offense’s ability to limit turnovers and possess the ball long enough to keep

4 | FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK • Wednesday, September 5, 2018

the other team off the field.

Black will be assisted this season

by Matt Bitz, John Ott, Jason Kuipers, Lantt Benavidez and Max Jeffrey.

As a part of the South CentralRed Conference, Black said he expects Waseca to be the favorites to win this seaeason. He also said that Winona will be the favorite to win the section.

The Tigers started their season with an away game against Marshall Aug. 31.

Being a Trojan means wearing the blue and gold with pride. It means being part of a team, always striving to be better, and putting in the hard work. We hustle on the court, field, and mat and then turn around and do it again in the classroom. We score goals and make memories. We're here to work hard and play hard.

And we love what we do.

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ALBERT LEA GIRLS’

SWIMMING

By Tyler Julson

EMILY TAYLOR

T

he Albert Lea girls’ swim team returns two swimmers who qualified for the state meet last year, and will lean on those two to help improve the squad from last season’s 1-10 record.

Senior Emily Taylor and sophomore Jaeda Koziolek eached placed in the top 16 at last year’s state swim meet and were AllConference swimmers.

“They are very talented swimmers and relied upon to win their races,” said head coach David Voller. “Both have placed top 16 in their events two years in a row (and) we are looking to get them into the top 8 this year.”

Other returning letter winners include senior Katie Funk; juniors Odelia Jensen, Esperanza Johnson and Anna Kuiters; sophomores Anna Birch, Jaden Christianson and Ishika Jain; and freshmen Taya Jeffrey, Aliyah Studier and Brooke Hanson.

Voller said the key to this year’s success is going to be the development of the young swimmers.

“We have a large and strong group of ninth- and 10th-graders that we need to grow and develop,” he said. “Also, gaining exposure to recruit more girls to build the program. We have a lot of young talent that can make us more competitive in the conference and section as they grow

JAEDA KOZIOLEK

6 | FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK • Wednesday, September 5, 2018

and develop.”

Although one of the goals this season is to get Taylor and Koziolek to place in the top eight, Voller has other goals set for the season as well. He wants to see the team be a section academic gold team, win three meets this year and advance one relay to state.

“We have three winnable meets this year we are looking forward to,” Voller said. “Qualifying another relay is a goal I have to keep getting more girls to state and showing the talent we have at our school. This goal will be tougher to achieve this year, but if our youth talent develops, I think we have a very good chance with Jaeda and Emily returning to the relay.”

The Tigers advanced one relay to state last season in the 200-meter medley. However, the loss of Lydia Boorsma and Natalie Nafzger put two holes in 200-meter medley relay team that made it to state last year.

Six other seniors graduated from last year’s squad, which leads Voller to think this year’s depth could be an issue.

“We have no divers again this year, which cost us last year and prevented us from winning a meet,” he said. “We have one of the smallest teams in the conference and are looking to build and grow our team.

Our youth is both a blessing and a curse. We have some talent and building blocks in place, it will just take some time for them to develop and reach their potential, but they will all have big roles for us this season.”

Voller expects Rochester Mayo to be the conference favorites this year and for Northfield to be the section favorites.

The Tigers started their season with a meet in Rochester Aug. 30.

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Wednesday, September 5, 2018 • FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK | 7

WITH A NEW TEAM IDENTITY

By Tyler Julson

T

he Albert Lea boys’ soccer team had a breakout season in 2017, finishing with its best record in over 10 years at 10-7 and a trip to the section semifinals. However, 13 seniors graduated from that team and have left this year’s squad looking for a new identity.

In his second year as head coach, Zac Luther is already no stranger to replacing spots on the roster left by graduating seniors. Heading into the 2017 season, the team had to replace nine seniors from the year before, but replacing 13, including three all-conference players and the team’s leading scorer, might prove to be a chore.

“It’s very difficult to tell where this season will go,” Luther said. “This team will have a lot of new guys.

There are a number of players that could have seen varsity time last year had it not been for the large number of seniors, so I am confident with our ability to reload. I’m not certain how it will look when the season starts, but I am sure that we will be competitive.”

The three captains for the 2018 team are also confident the team will find its groove early on in the season. Seniors Tim Kruen and Zach Slegh, along with junior Cole Indrelie, are the returning players who had the most varsity minutes last year, and Luther will rely on them heavily to lead the team both on and off the field.

“We definitely have a newer team,” Kruen said. “I’d say that this new

TIM KRUEN

8 | FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK • Wednesday, September 5, 2018

team is a lot more foot-skilled, which is really good for us because that means we can start passing the ball more.”

Luther said the key to success this year is going to be the team’s ability to possess the ball through the midfield. He said if they show the discipline needed to control the ball and the pace of the game, he’s confident in the team coming away with a good result.

The team set two goals at the beginning of practices. Their main goal is to finish with a record of over .500, and their second goal is to improve upon last year’s ending.

“The goal this year is to beat last year,” Slegh said. “We made it to the section semifinals last year, and we made it a goal to get to the finals this year.”

The Tigers fell to the Trojans of Worthington in the semifinals last season and played them in the first game of the year in 2018. Luther expected that game to be a good measuring tool to see where they are in the section and where everyone else stands.

Other returning letter winners include seniors Phil Ter, Matt Edwards and Jayden Emerson; junior Danny Chalmers; and sophomores Erick Palomo and Dante Lopez, all of whom have put in a lot of work over the offseason, whether

it be through summer leagues or other sports.

“We’re all definitely just trying step up and do our part,” Indrelie said. “Everyone else is putting in the work right along with us, so it should be a fun season.”

Talking about the team’s strengths and weaknesses, Luther said the defense, led by two senior center backs, will be a good base for the rest of the team to build off of, but the inexperience throughout the rest of the lineup will be a big transition for some of the players to make.

“My defense will be anchored by two senior center backs that played all last season,” Luther said. “I think that foundation will be important and build a foundation for the team. My biggest weakness will be inexperience. I need a lot of guys who have never played varsity before to jump into a new role and be important members of the squad.”

Luther expects Austin, last year’s conference champion and thirdplace state-finisher, to be the Big Nine favorites again this year.

Albert Lea met Austin on the road in the third game of the season Sep. 4.

The Tigers got their season kicked off when they hosted Worthington Aug. 28.

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Wednesday, September 5, 2018 • FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK | 9

ALBERT LEA GIRLS’

SOCCER

By Tyler Julson

A

fter a 9-7 record in 2017 and only losing three impact players from last year’s squad, the Albert Lea girls’ soccer team is hoping its experience from the summer can carry over into this season.

As a summer team, the U17 girls’ placed second in the state tournament, which has head coach Laura Wangen excited to see how well that will translate into the high school season.

Wangen has set a goal for the team to score more goals this year, as they were shut out in seven of their games last season. She also has goals set for herself and her players outside of the game.

“As a program, I really encourage all athletes to stay focused and work hard/learn something each and every practice/game,” she said.

“As a coach, it is my goal to have athletes represent girls’ soccer in positive ways.”

The Tigers lose All-Conference players Rachel Rehnelt and Ella Zelenak, as well as Sydney Doran from last season, but return many players with varsity experience.

Sophomore Jacy Rosas comesback as last year’s leading goal-scorer with five; as well as junior Turena Schultz, who had four goals. The duo is accompanied by seniors Alexis Rothmeier and Alexis Palamo; juniors Ashley Butt, Emily Bos, Sydney Collins, Sydney Nelson and Marissa Vogt; sophomores Laura Flaherty, Maddie

JACY ROSAS

Schneider and Lucy Serman; and freshman Esther Yoon.

“Defense will once again be a key factor in order to have success, but we also need to produce more opportunities up front,” Wangen said. “Improving our overall possession time will result in more offensive opportunities.”

Wangen stressed the importance of the girls working together to create opportunities for the team.

“Soccer is truly a team sport – one person cannot do everything

10 | FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK • Wednesday, September 5, 2018

on their own,” she said. “Last season, players really stepped it up when they needed to, and many positive things came out if it. The team needs to continue to trust one another and build off each player’s strengths and weaknesses to be successful.”

Wangen said the section favorites will be Mankato West, Northfield and Waseca.

The Tigers got their season started at home Aug. 27 with a match against Fairmont.

ALBERT LEA

VOLLEYBALL

By Tyler Julson

T

he Albert Lea volleyball team enters the 2018 season looking for a fresh start under new head coach Jamie Cameron.

The Tigers finished last season with a 1-16 record and lost six seniors from that team, including KAILEY VANRIPER Bailey Rye, Alexandra Eckstrom, Dayna Edwards, Xitlalli Lopez, Cameron said his coaching style biggest challenge of the season is Dora Ogunkanbi and Jenna Seavey, is always going to be a positive one. going to be getting the girls to all of whom saw extended playing He knows that everyone is going to change their mindset away from time. make a mistake once in a while, but being down on themselves and However, a handful of experiit’s going to be how the players focusing on the next shot instead of enced players return to the team respond to the mistakes and how the mistakes. hoping to turn the program around. well they move on from them that’s The Tigers started their season off Courtney Harmdierks, Kailey going to define the team. with a home match against VanRiper, Mikaela Pannkuk and Cameron said he thinks the Burnsville Aug. 28.

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ALBERT LEA

CROSS COUNTRY

By Tyler Julson

D

espite losing three captains from last year’s squad, the Albert Lea boys’ cross country team returns six runners with varsity experience under their belt.

Grant Herfindahl, JV Moreno and Leo Olveda are the returning seniors and will be relied upon heavily to lead the younger classes of runners. Head coach Jim Haney said this group’s work is already second to none before the season even started.

Other returning key athletes are juniors Sonny Ortega-Roseli and Travis Jensen, and sophomore Aaron Bauers.

“We need to compete to the best of our ability, and winning the Big Nine could be a possibility,” Haney said. “I have focused, driven athletes who have bought into the time and effort it takes to be great. I expect greatness every day, and my athletes do not disappoint.”

Haney said the keys to success for the team are going to be their ability to run to their potential and staying injury-free throughout the year.

Many more return to the team as letter winners, including juniors Nathan Bauers, Garrett Everett and Janyjour Ruei; sophomores Logan Barr, Spencer Clark, Josh Everett, Thomas Lundell, Victor Ortiz and Colby Pathammavong; freshman Mason Buendorf, Henrick Lange, Brennan McCalla and James DeHaan; and eighth-graders Josh Behrends, Gavin Hanke, Patrick Holcomb, Jack Ladlie, Jaegar Larson and Luke Wagnesses.

Girls’ team sees record numbers

With more girls out for the team than

JAIDEN VENEM

SPENCER CLARK

in previous years, Haney said the team is full of young runners, but they are a great bunch of learners and will learn a lot through the experiences of the first few meets.

The girls hope to fill the spots left by last year’s seniors Autumn Muilenberg and Allie Christianson. Christianson was a captain for last year’s team, and Muilenberg was an All-Conference runner and 2017 state entrant.

Haney will be counting on his returning starting runners to lead the rest of the team, which includes sophomores Jaiden Venem and Abby Thompson, and eighth-graders Joey

12 | FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK • Wednesday, September 5, 2018

Maiden and Jai Maligaya.

“All of these girls have put many miles in over the summer to get better,” Haney said.

Other returning letter winners include sophomores Josie Bolinger and Htoo Who Tee, and freshmen Olivia Boyce and Annabelle Lundell.

Haney expects Mankato West to be the favorites in the conference and either Farmington, Lakeville North or Lakeville South to win the section.

Both the boys’ and girls’ teams got their season started with a meet at Austin Meadow Greens Golf Course Aug. 28.

ALBERT LEA GIRLS’

TENNIS

By Tyler Julson

F

irst-year head coach Therese Netzer is taking over the reigns of the Albert Lea girls’ tennis team in hopes of improving last year’s record by focusing on the basics.

Last season the team finished with a record of 3-12 overall, but only losing one senior has many of the players looking forward to the future.

“The girls are really upbeat, they have positive attitudes, and they want to work hard,” Netzer said.

“We have strong, well-respected leaders who bring both experience and positivity to the whole group.”

This year’s captains are senior Lexus Saltou and junior Samantha Skarstad. Netzer described the duo as tremendous leaders, positive role models and excellent athletes.

She expects them to be strong in leading their peers throughout the season.

The team returns 11 other letterwinners from last season on top of Skarstad and Saltou. Juniors Kayla Christenson, Makenzie Herr, Riley Johnson, Kaedyn Kirchner, Brooke Maier, Maggie Moller, Madison Prihoda and Carley Talamantes; and sophomores Dominica Eckstrom and Shelby Hanson all come back to try and make their mark on the team.

“This season, we will work to ramp up our focus and build our mental toughness,” Netzer said. “In tennis, many times your hardest opponent is yourself. It’s easy to get down on yourself, to beat your-

SHELBY HANSON

self up, to think of one lost point or game or even set as the end.

We’ll be working everyday to build grit and determination.”

Netzer said the key to success this season is going to be the team’s ability to stay in a positive mindframe and develop some grit.

By strengthening their fundamentals and reflecting and improving on each shot, Netzer said they will be successful in their goals.

“Our goal is to rise together,”

she said. “To build fundamental skills, to make improvements everyday, to be competitive and to make our next shot better than our last one.”

Netzer expects Rochester Mayo and Owatonna to be the toughest competition in the conference this year.

Albert Lea got its season started with a triangular against Rochester Century and Rochester John Marshall Aug. 21.

Wednesday, September 5, 2018 • FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK | 13

ALL-AREA FALL 2018

CALENDAR Sept. 6 (THU) Volleyball: Rochester Century at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Alden-Conger at Nicollet, 7 p.m.

NRHEG at Medford, 7:15 p.m.

United South Central at Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Glenville-Emmons at LeRoyOstrander, 7:15 p.m.

Lake Mills at Eagle Grove, 7 p.m.

Boys’ soccer: Faribault at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Girls’ soccer: Albert Lea at Faribault, 7 p.m.

GIrls’ tennis: Red Wing at Albert Lea, 4:30 p.m.

Girls’ swimming: Albert Lea at Owatonna, 6 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: United South Central at Tri-City United, 4:20 p.m.

Sept. 7 (FRI) Football: St. Peter at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Alden-Conger/Glenville-Emmons at Nicollet, 7 p.m.

NRHEG at Sibley East, 7 p.m.

United South Central at Mayer Lutheran, 7 p.m.

Dunkerton at Northwood-Kensett, 7 p.m.

Bishop-Garrigan at Lake Mills, 7 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: Albert Lea at Faribault, 3:30 p.m.

Sept. 8 (SAT) Volleyball: NRHEG and United South Central at Mankato West Tournament, 9 a.m.

Alden-Conger at Hayfield Tournament, 9 a.m.

Lake Mills and Northwood-Kensett at Central Springs, 9 a.m.

Girls’ tennis: United South Central home invite, 10 a.m.

Sept. 11 (TUE) Volleyball: Albert Lea at Austin, 7 p.m.

NRHEG at Alden-Conger, 7:15 p.m.

Randolph at Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

Mt. Lake Area at United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Garner-Hayfield-Ventura at Lake Mills, 7 p.m.

Northwood-Kensett at Newman Catholic, 7 p.m.

Boys’ soccer: Winona at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Girls’ soccer: Albert Lea at Winona, 7 p.m.

GIrls’ tennis: Winona at Albert Lea, 4:30 p.m.

United South Central at Jordan, 4:15 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: NRHEG at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m.

Northwood-Kensett and Lake Mills at Osage, 4:30 p.m.

Sept. 13 (THU) Volleyball: Hayfield at NRHEG, 7:15 p.m.

Glenville-Emmons at Kingsland, 7:15 p.m.

Medford at United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ soccer: Albert Lea at Owatonna, 7 p.m.

Girls’ soccer: Owatonna at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: Albert Lea at Rochester Mayo, 4 p.m.

United South Central at Maple River, 4:30 p.m.

GIrls’ tennis: Albert Lea at Faribault, 4:30 p.m.

Southwest Christian at United South Central, 4:15 p.m.

Girls’ swimming: Winona at Albert Lea, 6 p.m.

Sept. 14 (FRI) Football: Albert Lea at Jordan, 7 p.m.

Buffalo Lake-Hector Stewart at AldenConger/Glenville-Emmons, 7 p.m.

Norwood Young America at NRHEG, 7 p.m.

Lester Prairie at United South Central, 7 p.m.

North Iowa at Northwood-Kensett, 7 p.m.

Lake Mills at North Union, 7 p.m.

Sept. 15 (SAT) Girls’ soccer: Mankato Loyola at Albert Lea, 1 p.m.

Lake Mills at Forest City, 9 a.m.

Girls’ tennis: United South Central at St. James Area, 9 a.m.

Sept. 17 (MON) Volleyball: Alden-Conger at Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: Albert Lea at Fairmont, 4:30 p.m.

Northwood-Kensett and Lake Mills at West Fork, 4:30 p.m.

Sept. 18 (TUE) Volleyball: Faribault at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Cleveland at Alden-Conger, 7:15 p.m.

LeSueur-Henderson at NRHEG, 7:15 p.m.

Lyle-Pacelli at Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

Lake Mills at North Union, 7 p.m.

Central Springs at NorthwoodKensett, 7 p.m.

Boys’ soccer: Mankato West at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Girls’ soccer: Albert Lea at Mankato West, 7 p.m.

GIrls’ tennis: Albert Lea at Mankato East, 4:30 p.m.

United South Central at Sibley East, 4:15 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country:

14 | FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK • Wednesday, September 5, 2018

NRHEG meet at home, 4:30 p.m.

Sept. 20 (THU) Volleyball: Winona at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Alden-Conger at Lake Crystal-Wellcome Memorial, 7:30 p.m.

NRHEG at Waterville-ElysianMorristown, 7:15 p.m.

Glenville-Emmons at Schaeffer Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Bethlehem Academy at United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ soccer: Albert Lea at Northfield, 7 p.m.

Girls’ soccer: Northfield at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

GIrls’ tennis: Mankato West at Albert Lea, 4:30 p.m.

United South Central at Le SueurHenderson, 4:15 p.m.

Girls’ swimming: Northfield at Albert Lea, 6 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: NorthwoodKensett and Lake Mills at Central Springs, 4:30 p.m.

Sept. 21 (FRI) Football: Waseca at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Alden-Conger/ Glenville-Emmons at Cleveland, 7 p.m.

NRHEG at GFW, TBD United South Central at St. Clair, 7 p.m.

Northwood-Kensett at Riceville, 7 p.m.

Sumner-Fredericksburg at Lake Mills, 7 p.m.

Sept. 22 (SAT) Volleyball: Lake Mills at BishopGarrigan, 9 a.m.

Northwood-Kensett at Dunkerton, 9 a.m.

Girls’ soccer: Albert Lea at Worthington, 1 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: Albert Lea at Winona, 9:30 a.m.

United South Central at Milaca, noon Sept. 24 (MON) Volleyball: United South Central at St. Clair, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: Northwood-Kensett and Lake Mills at Garner-Hayfield-Ventura, 4:30 p.m.

Girls’ tennis: Tri-City United at United South Central, 4:15 p.m.

Sept. 25 (TUE) Volleyball: Albert Lea at Owatonna, 7 p.m.

St. Clair at Alden-Conger, 7:30 p.m.

NRHEG at Blooming Prairie, 7:15 p.m.

North Iowa at Lake Mills, 7 p.m.

Northwood-Kensett at St. Ansgar, 7 p.m.

Boys’ soccer: Albert Lea at Mankato East, 7 p.m.

Girls’ soccer: Mankato East at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: Albert Lea at Mankato West, 3:45 p.m.

GIrls’ tennis: Austin at Albert Lea, 4:30 p.m.

Girls’ swimming: Tri-City United at Albert Lea, 6 p.m.

Sept. 27 (THU) Volleyball: Mankato West at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Alden-Conger at Martin County West, 7:30 p.m.

NRHEG at Bethlehem Academy, 7:15 p.m.

Mabel-Canton at Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

United South Central at Madelia, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ soccer: Rochester John Marshall at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Girls’ soccer: Albert Lea at Rochester John Marshall, 7 p.m.

GIrls’ tennis: Albert Lea at Waseca, 4 p.m.

Girls’ swimming: Rochester Mayo at Albert Lea, 6 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: NRHEG and United South Central at Janesville, 4 p.m.

Sept. 28 (FRI) Football: Fairmont at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Madelia at Alden-Conger/GlenvilleEmmons, 7 p.m.

Waterville-Elysian-Morristown at NRHEG, 7 p.m.

Minnesota Valley Lutheran at United South Central, 7 p.m.

Northwood-Kensett at Don-Bosco, 7 p.m.

Lake Mills at North Butler, 7 p.m.

Sept. 29 (SAT) Volleyball: United South Central at Nicollet, 7:30 a.m.

Girls’ soccer: Albert Lea at Byron, 3 p.m.

GIrls’ tennis: Albert Lea at Rochester Tennis Center, 9 a.m.

Oct. 1 (MON) Volleyball: Alden-Conger at United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: Northwood-Kensett at Lake Mills, 4:30 p.m.

Oct. 2 (TUE) Volleyball: Albert Lea at Northfield, 7 p.m.

Martin Luther-GHEC-Truman at AldenConger, 7:30 p.m.

NRHEG at Tri-City United, 7 p.m.

LeRoy-Ostrander at Glenville-Emmons, 7:15 p.m.

United South Central at Hayfield, 7:15 p.m.

Lake Mills at Forest City, 7 p.m.

Osage at Northwood-Kensett, 7 p.m.

Boys’ soccer: Red Wing at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Girls’ soccer: Albert Lea at Red Wing, 7 p.m.

Oct. 4 (THU) Volleyball: Albert Lea at Mankato East, 7 p.m.

Alden-Conger at Loyola Catholic, 7:30 p.m.

United South Central at NRHEG, 7:15 p.m.

Glenville-Emmons at Randolph,

7:15 p.m.

Boys’ soccer: Albert Lea at Rochester Mayo, 7 p.m.

Girls’ soccer: Rochester Mayo at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: Albert Lea at Owatonna, 4:30 p.m.

NRHEG at Waseca, 4 p.m.

Girls’ swimming: Albert Lea at Mankato East, 6 p.m.

Oct. 5 (FRI) Football: Albert Lea at Tri-City United, 7 p.m.

NRHEG at Maple River, 7 p.m.

United South Central at Fillmore Central, 7 p.m.

Janesville at Northwood-Kensett, 7 p.m.

Aplington-Parkersburg at Lake Mills, 7 p.m.

Oct. 6 (SAT) Volleyball: Alden-Conger at St. Clair Tournament, 9 a.m.

United South Central at Blue Earth Area tournament, 9 a.m.

Girls’ swimming: Albert Lea at Cambridge-Isanti, 1 p.m.

Oct. 8 (MON) Volleyball: Maple River at AldenConger, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: Northwood-Kensett and Lake Mills at Forest City, 4:30 p.m.

Oct. 9 (TUE) Volleyball: Rochester John Marshall at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Madelia at Alden-Conger, 7:30 p.m.

Maple River at NRHEG, 7:15 p.m.

Glenville-Emmons at Lyle-Pacelli, 7:15 p.m.

United South Central at Lake CrystalWellcome Memorial, 7:15 p.m.

Lake Mills at North Butler, 6 p.m.

Northwood-Kensett at North Iowa, 7 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: United South Central at home, 4:30 p.m.

Oct. 11 (THU) Volleyball: Red Wing at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

Blooming Prairie at NRHEG, 7:15 p.m.

Schaeffer Academy at GlenvilleEmmons, 7:15 p.m.

Maple River at United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Girls’ swimming: Mankato West at Albert Lea, 6 p.m.

Oct. 12 (FRI) Football: Albert Lea at Worthington, 7 p.m.

LeSueur-Henderson at NRHEG, 7 p.m.

Alden-Conger/Glenville-Emmons at Sleepy Eye Saint Mary’s, 7 p.m.

United South Central at JanesvilleWaldorf-Pemberton, 7 p.m.

Tripoli at Northwood-Kensett, 7 p.m.

Osage at Lake Mills, 7 p.m.

Volleyball: Albert Lea tournament at Apple Valley, 5 p.m.

Oct. 19 (FRI) Football: Northwood-Kensett at Rockford, 7 p.m.

Lake Mills at Denver, 7 p.m.

Oct. 13 (SAT) Volleyball: Albert Lea tournament at Apple Valley, 8 a.m.

Alden-Conger at Byron Tournament, 8:30 a.m.

Lake Mills at Algona, 9 a.m.

Northwood-Kensett at Garner-HayfieldVentura, 9 a.m.

Oct. 27 (SAT) Girls’ swimming: Albert Lea at Rochester Recreation Center, 1 p.m.

Oct. 25 (THU) Boys’ and girls’ cross country: Albert Lea at Owatonna, 3:45 p.m.

Oct. 15 (MON) Volleyball: AldenConger at New Ulm, 7 p.m.

Oct. 16 (TUE) Volleyball: Albert Lea at Rochester Mayo, 7 p.m.

JanesvilleWaldorfPemberton at Alden-Conger, 7:15 p.m.

NRHEG at Maple River, 7:15 p.m.

Waterville-Elysian-Morristown at United South Central, 7:15 p.m.

Boys’ and girls’ cross country: Albert Lea at Owatonna, 4 p.m.

United South Central at Mapleton, 4 p.m.

Girls’ swimming: Faribault at Albert Lea, 6 p.m.

Oct. 17 (WED) Football: Belle Plaine at Albert Lea, 7 p.m.

GHEC-Truman at Alden-Conger/ Glenville-Emmons, 7 p.m.

NRHEG at Lake Crystal-Wellcome Memorial, 7 p.m.

Medford at United South Central, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, September 5, 2018 • FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK | 15

LAKE MILLS

VOLLEYBALL

By Sarah Kocher

A

lthough returning letter winner numbers are high for the team, injuries and the loss of six senior starters last year leaves Lake Mills’ volleyball team open for interpretation on the court.

“We have to build some depth early in 2018 if we want to compete at a high level,” coach Jim Boehmer said.

Boehmer has coached volleyball at Lake Mills for 27 years.

Competing at a high level is something of a track record for the team, whose 2017 season saw it taking its 10th straight trip to the regional finals or better and its 14th straight regular season conference championship.

Boehmer said the success of younger players last year will help fill team needs this season. The left side of the court specifically is headed back to the drawing board, and some players will compete for spots or shuffle spots on the court from places they’ve previously played as the team finds its dynamic.

“It will be fun working with all these girls to determine each person’s role this season,” Boehmer said. “Our group has worked hard in the offseason to improve.

We need to play with more passion and energy, and SEASON OVERALL CONF. 2017-18 39-4 8-0 that will build our 2016-17 41-1 8-0 confidence.”

2015-16 40-2 8-0 Boehmer said he 2014-15 46-4 10-0 is also looking for 2013-14 35-6 7-0 leadership from

5-year Glance

JESSA GASTEIGER

KYLIE GREENFIELD

incoming seniors. Letter winners include senior and outside hitter Audrey Casperson, senior and middle/ outside player Hannah Hanson, senior and defensive specialist Faith Cox (as of press time not cleared for play due to a knee injury) and junior setter Jessa Gasteiger. Letter winner, junior and middle/outside player Megan Groe is out for the season due to an ACL injury.

In the Top of Iowa Conference West,

16 | FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK • Wednesday, September 5, 2018

Boehmer said Forest City will return with a lot of talent in its program and as the team to beat. Lake Mills has performed well in conferences past, placing as a top-four team every year since 1990.

“It is clear our expectations remain high,” Boehmer said. “Our goal is to do what we can to impact the final standing. We want to be that team that those at the top worry about playing.”

LAKE MILLS

CROSS COUNTRY

By Sam Wilmes

F

CAEL BOEHMER

LAKE MILLS

FOOTBALL

By Colleen Harrison

A

lot of experience will be at the helm for the Bulldogs, with head coach Bill Byrnes returning for his 23rd year.

While the Lake Mills football team will have experience on its side, it’ll look to bounce back from a 2-7 season in 2017.

The return of letter winners Blake Storby (receiver and linebacker), Cael Boehmer (quarterback and defensive back), Colby Groe (receiver and defensive back), Tommy Kaktis (receiver and defensive back), Maverick Schmitt (linebacker and fullback), Logan Prescott (running back and defensive back), Casey Hanson (running back and defensive back), Tyler Helgeson (running back and defensive back), Braydon Lindemann (lineman), Max Johnson (lineman), Andrew Mannes (lineman) Dylan Renneker

(lineman), Nate Orban (lineman), Mason Fritz (quarterback, receiver and defensive back), Caleb Bacon (offensive line and linebacker), Elijah Wagner (fullback and linebacker) and Carson Eaton (running back and defensive back) are expected to help lead the charge this season.

Byrnes expects his team to start the non-district portion of the schedule fast, and wants them to be competitive each game.

“Last year we had leads in seven of the nine games going into the fourth quarter,” the head coach said. “(We) must finish games.”

Keys to success for Lake Mills will be learning a new offensive system, staying healthy and starting fast, Byrnes said, while utilizing fast and athletic skill sets.

Byrnes said he expects Denver and Aplington-Parkersburg to be district favorites.

irst-year Lake Mills Bulldogs cross country coach Whitney Spies hopes the team consistently works hard this year in the Top of Iowa Conference.

“I would like each athlete to improve from the first meet to the last meet,” she said. “Get a lot of miles under our belts and practice with the same intensity as a competition.”

The girls’ roster includes seniors Kendall Kirschbaum and Breanna Mary, and juniors Dani Brua and Madison Holtan.

The boys’ team compete for team placings with the addition of three freshman runners, Hayden Brua, Aiden Johanson and Reese Wilhelm.

They join juniors Ashton Love, Parker Rogstad and Carson Rygh.

Both the boys’ and girls’ teams started their season with a meet at Newman Catholic School Aug. 28.

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Wednesday, September 5, 2018 • FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK | 17

NRHEG

FOOTBALL

By Colleen Harrison

T

he Panthers have a new leader, but a lot of familiar faces returning this year as well.

Marc Kruger will coach the football team in his first season, assisted by Duey Ferber.

Kruger is an Albert Lea graduate.

The Panthers are coming off a 5-5 season from 2017. They’ll see the return of multiple senior letter winners, including Alex Buckmeier (lineman), Jacob Schuller (wideout), Quintin Arndt (lineman), Brady Agrimson (wideout), Jack Hogstad (lineman), Tyler Jacobson (back), Sawyer Vanmaldghem (back), Spencer Tufte (lineman), Devin Buendorf (wideout) and Hailey Westrum (kicker). Other returning letter winners are juniors Mason Ferber (end) and Lonnie Wilson (back), and sophomores Kordell Schlaak (quarterback) and Nick Staloch (back).

Kruger believes Agrimson will be a key player for NRHEG this season.

“Brady will be switching positions for us on defense, as he was a defensive back last year,” Kruger said. “We expect to rely on Brady’s athleticism on the defensive side of the ball.”

The first-year coach said Schuller, Arndt and Buckmeier are also expected to drive much of the Panthers’ success this year. “(Agrimson) along with fellow senior wideout Jacob Schuller will be our deep threats on offense using their height, speed and recent experience representing NRHEG at the state track meet,” Kruger said. “We return most of the starting line and plan to be strong trenches, highlighted by seniors Quienten Arndt and Alex Buckmeier. Both players will likely play both sides of the ball on the line.”

The Panthers will be missing one of

JAKE STORK

their best players, though, as all-time rushing leader Perry Peterson graduated over the offseason.

Still, while there will be a lot of changes for NRHEG from last season, Kruger is optimistic about the future.

“With a .500 record last year, we look to build off past success while implementing a new offense and defense,” he said. “We plan

on a winning record, even with the eventual growing pains of the changes.”

Kruger said keys to success for his team will be understanding and adapting to the coaching and playmaking changes.

“As long as everyone buys in we know we can be a special team,” he said. “We have a lot of talent and the team expects to have a great season.”

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NRHEG

VOLLEYBALL

DARIAN PEARSON

By Sarah Kocher

A

fter an upset playoff last season that allowed NRHEG volleyball to advance a step further than expected, NRHEG’s volleyball coach said the team is hoping to take it from where they left off last season.

Head coach Onika Peterson said the team comes back with experience and leadership, including eight players with varsity experience from last season.

Returning letter winners include senior middle hitter Caitlin Goette, senior setter Laura Worrell, senior right side hitter Jayna Finseth, senior outside hitter Olivia Christopherson, senior libero Sydney Schlinger, senior middle hitter Darian Pearson, senior outside hitter Alexis Anderson, senior defensive specialist Lexie Ignaszewski, senior right-side hitter Kylie NRHEG

CROSS COUNTRY

By Sam Wilmes

N

RHEG cross country coach Miles Ostot hopes the team improves in his first year as head coach.

The Panthers return seven letter winners

Arndt and senior setter Hannah Budach.

Last year, Christopherson was the only returning starter who played every single game in the 2016 season. She will be a three-year starter for NRHEG and a team captain.

“Olivia really stepped up last year by having to be a leader on the floor as well as a go-to hitter,” Peterson said.

Peterson said the conference favorite is Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, while sec-

tion favorites are WEM and Mayer Lutheran.

In the past five years, NRHEG’s top finish was a 14-13 overall record with a 3-6 Gopher Conference finish and placement as sub-section runner-up. Last year, the team finished with an 11-17 overall record.

Peterson said the team will need to avoid complacency that can come with experience. Their key to success will be “having a consistent passing game to put our strong hitters in position to be successful.”

from last year’s squad, including boys Gavin Anderson, Agro Gushwa, Tylar Malakowsky and Daniel Nydegger; and girls Madisyn Bueltel, Jade Mely and Mia Williams.

A sophomore, Nydegger was an AllConference Honorable Mention last year and had a “strong track season,” Ostot said.

Bueltel was a varsity runner, AllConference Honorable Mention selection

and team MVP as a junior.

“I expect my first season as head coach to be a year where the team works hard and continues to strive to improve our times,” he said.

The Panthers will look to replace Ben Lewer, who graduated after being named All-Conference Honorable Mention, captain and team MVP last year. Graduate Kollin Reese was also a varsity runner.

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Wednesday, September 5, 2018 • FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK | 19

UNITED SOUTH CENTRAL GIRLS’

TENNIS

ROEL PERALES

By Sarah Kocher

A

UNITED SOUTH CENTRAL

FOOTBALL

By Colleen Harrison

T

hird-year head coach Brandon Neseth is excited for the future of his Rebels football team, and expects records to be broken.

Neseth — assisted by Pat Frank, Steve Bushlack, Todd Rasmussen, Andy Johnson and Adam Rajtar — will look to have his United South Central team improve on its 5-5 record from last season.

The Rebels will see the return of letter winners Jake Stevermer (senior offensive lineman and linebacker), George Bias (senior lineman), Roel Perales (senior back), Colby Klocek (senior back), Zach Niebuhr (junior back and linebacker), Isaac Meyer (junior back and quarterback), Keagan Meyer (junior lineman), Carson Wegner (offensive lineman and linebacker), Ethan Dallman (sophomore back and quarterback) and Riley Staloch (sophomore defensive lineman).

Both Niebuhr and Perales will be United South Central’s backfield this year, and Neseth expects big things from the two.

“I have never coached more instinctive runners than these two,” Neseth said.

“Their natural ability combined with their

work ethic will lead to them being some of the better backs in recent USC history.”

He said Perales has already broken the school’s record for touchdowns, and he expects the two running backs to finish first and second in all of the major school rushing records.

Neseth said Derek Chistensen (senior quarterback and defensive back) should be a team leader as well. “(Christensen) is an excellent runner/ physical defender that is one of the best athletes in our entire conference.”

While the Rebels lost two leaders in Levi Thisius and Trent Stevermer to graduation, Neseth said success is attainable for the team this season.

“We will be as good as we want to be in 2018. Our team is deep with guys that have been key contributors over the last two seasons,” he said. “We went 5-5 in 2017 with a very young team and add one of the best players in the district with Isaac Meyer, who was injured last season.

“If we protect the football, tackle well on defense and continue to be more and more consistent, I feel we can be a very competitive football team — not only in the district, but in the state.”

20 | FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK • Wednesday, September 5, 2018

fter graduating the team’s top two performers, the United South Central tennis coach is looking for some younger athletes to fill shoes on the varsity team.

However, those two pairs are the only ones to fill from the varsity team as eight of the 10 starting varsity players are returners.

United South Central tennis coach Amanda Henning said the team truly enjoys to plays tennis and strives to do their best on the court.

“We also need each and every athlete to do their very best at all times, push themselves to reach their potential and think positively throughout the season in both practice and matches,” Henning said.

Returning letter winners include senior doubles player Madison Loegering, junior doubles player Daylyn Huper, junior doubles player Trinity Seedorf, sophomore doubles player Alyson Swanson, sophomore singles player and all-conference honorable mention Delaney Weber, sophomore singles player Kori Elmer, sophomore doubles player Lauren Zebro and sophomore doubles player Kaitlyn Dylla.

Players Emma Barnd and Carly Weber took sixth at state last year as doubles partners and traded No. 1 and No. 2 singles spots with each other.

The team will be young this year, Henning said, but she said it needs each and every athlete to push themselves to reach their potential.

“Our older athletes (Madison, Daylyn and Trinity) will need to really USC TENNIS / TO PAGE 21

UNITED SOUTH CENTRAL

VOLLEYBALL

KOURTNEY HARPESTAD

By Bethany Tennis

T

he United South Central volleyball team hopes to improve its play this season. The team is led by coach Joe Kuechenmeister in his third year as head coach at USC. Last year, the team finished 2-27 in its overall record and 0-6 in the Gopher Conference.

Although the team lost key players due to graduation, it will have seven returning letter winners from its previous season, including Hailey Warmka, Abi Renz, Kortney Harpestad, Kaylee Carlson, Lizzy Baird, Raven Suhr and Lauren Hagenson.

“The on-court experience coming back is unlike anything we’ve had in my previous two (years),” Kuechenmeister said.

Kuechenmeister said the team will lean on some of its returning key players this season, like Baird, who received a Gopher Conference

USC TENNIS / PAGE 20 be good role models on the court in both the physical and mental aspects of tennis to help out their younger teammates,” Henning said.

She said the Minnesota River conference has tight competition with several teams returning a large portion of their players. Section or district favorites are St. James and Blue Earth.

“However, last season there were a few upsets in the playoffs, so I truly believe whoever puts in the practice time, works hard and has dedication could pull off the win,” Henning said.

Honorable Mention recognition. Also returning to the floor is one of the Rebels’ middles, Renz, who led the team in kill production and blocking last season.

Kuechenmeister said the team will have to cut down on unforced errors and increase consistency in its serve receive game to be successful in the upcoming season.

Kuechenmeister added because of the team’s lack of height on the net, its defense will need to provide more

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“We play in one of the toughest small school volleyball conferences in the entire state, so it won’t be an easy road, but we’ll certainly be battle-tested by the time the postseason rolls around,” Kuechenmeister said.

The team expects to be more competitive and play a cleaner brand of volleyball for the season. The Rebels kicked off their season Aug. 30 against Martin Luther.

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Wednesday, September 5, 2018 • FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK | 21

UNITED SOUTH CENTRAL

CROSS COUNTRY

By Sam Wilmes

T

LUKE MORRISON

ADAM SKOV

ALDEN-CONGER/GLENVILLE-EMMONS

FOOTBALL

By Colleen Harrison

A

fter coming off an impressive 9-2 season (7-1 in their conference), the Alden-Conger/Glenville-Emmons football team will look to rebuild after the loss of eight seniors who all played significant roles on last year’s team.

Chad Mattson returns for his fourth year at the helm, and will be assisted

by Casey Soost, Josh Sorensen and Joe Brooks.

Even with the loss of some of their players, Mattson still expects a lot from his team.

“We need to pick up where we left

off and keep building on what we accomplished last season,” he said.

“With all the players we lost from last year, everyone is gonna have to earn the right to be a key player.”

While Mattson said some of his athletes are younger and inexperienced, the team has speed and athleticism on its side.

“Our key with the youthfulness we have is gonna be to not get intimidated by older, more-experienced teams,” he said.

Mattson considers Bethlehem Academy to be section favorites this year.

22 | FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK • Wednesday, September 5, 2018

he United South Central/ Alden-Conger cross country team returns six runners this year as it looks to compete in the Gopher Valley Conference.

The team will rely on senior John Mantor, junior Taige Suhr and sophomores Trystan Servantez, Lauren Thunstedt, Abbey Redman and Kristen Hubbard.

Servantez and Thunstedt were All-Conference selections last year.

Entering her fifth year as head coach, Rita Augustine said the team’s weaknesses are a small number of runners, and the squad has “plenty of opportunity for growth,” she said.

Augustine said for the squad to be successful, students need to be “open-minded to working hard every day and setting realistic and challenging goals.”

The team will look to replace Beth Stevermer, a five-time state participant.

Soucheray expects conference favorites to be Martin County West, Waterville-ElysianMorristown-Janesville-WaldorfPemberton and Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial-Nicollet.

Fairmont is expected to be section favorites.

Augustine will be assisted by John Soucheray in his third year as assistant coach.

The Rebels got their season started with a meet at Mountain Lake Aug. 29. Their annual home meet will take place late in the season Oct. 9

ALDEN-CONGER

VOLLEYBALL

By Sarah Kocher

A

lden-Conger volleyball is aiming high this season, setting a goal to come out as one of the top teams in its conference and sub-sections.

Other Valley Conference favorites are St. Clair and Cleveland.

The team came out of last year’s season with an overall 22-5 record and a conference/district record of 7-1. That 22-5 finish is the team’s best finish in the last five years, coach Jolene Bute said.

The team graduated one senior last year and returns with a slew of letter winners, including senior setter Erika Bute, senior right-side hitter Megan Linn, senior middle blocker Autumn ERIKA BUTE Soost, senior defensive specialist Trinity Newman, senior pin hitter Saige Flattum, senior defensive specialist Faith Wedin, junior pin hitter Mikenna Erickson, sophomore outside hitter Abbie Theusch and freshman defensive specialist Mallory Although they have a few Ignaszewski. young players who need to find Jolene Bute said her daughter, consistency, Jolene Bute said the senior setter Erika Bute, is the team’s team has a lot of volleyball “coach on the court.” She has over knowledge on the court that she 1,000 digs and over 2,000 setting hopes will balance that out. assists. Erika Bute played for an Alden 874-3421 Conger 265-3231 off-season team that won the national championship in the 17 open division. Jolene Bute said Linn will also bring skill to • Feed • Seed • Grain • Farm Supplies • Grinding • Mixing the court. www.ncountrycoop.com “She has become one of our most deadly hitters and servGOOD LUCK ers,” Jolene Bute said.

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Wednesday, September 5, 2018 • FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK | 23

GLENVILLE-EMMONS

VOLLEYBALL

By Bethany Tennis

T

he Wolverines hope to improve on their past seasons as they kick off the 2018 schedule under the direction of head coach Krystle Belshan. This is Belshan’s second year as the head coach at GlenvilleEmmons. Last year, Glenville-Emmons finished 0-23 overall and 0-13 in conference play.

The Wolverines will return many letter winners, despite losing some key players last season. Senior Daniella Rizo will be unable to play due to an ACL injury she suffered last spring. Among others lost due to graduation were starting libero Savannah Schipper and captain Nicole Allison.

“We have many returning players with

DANIELLA RIZO

multiple years of experience,” Belshan said.

The Wolverines will rely on key players including Haley Miller, Kennedy Severtson and Chloe Anderson. Miller, an AllConference Honorable Mention honoree, led the team in kills along with being named a captain and the most valuable player for 2017. Severtson led the team with the most ace serves, while Anderson led the team in assists.

“We need to play with communication, perseverance and scrappiness to be successful this season,” Belshan said.

Belshan said the team weakness is not playing with speed on their side of the court and the girls not maintaining mental toughness. Belshan added the team expectations are to improve their volleyball skills and to find their own way to play their game on their side of the court, no matter who is on the opposing side.

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NORTHWOOD-KENSETT

FOOTBALL

By Tyler Julson

R

eturning for his 30th year as head coach of the NorthwoodKensett football team, Dave Capitani will lean on 13 returning letter winners to compete for the district title and qualify for the playoffs.

The Vikings lose three All-District players from last season, including lineman AJ Branstad, running back Colton Moretz and tight end Garrett Thompson. They also lost starting quarterback Cole Parks and offensive lineman Mike Waller and Marcus Brandt.

Despite the losses, many key players from last year will make their return. All-District lineman Gavin Varner, second team AllDistrict running back Samuel Kliment and honorable mention defensive back Logan Benjegerdes will be the leaders on a team that finished with a record of 5-4 one year ago.

Other returning letter winners include seniors Lane Anderson, Nathan Cordle, Trey Waldemer Ethan Welch and Brock Nelson; juniors Caden Schrage Gideon Rollene, Tristan Rothove and Blake Hagen; and sophomore Brandon Varner.

Another big piece of the Vikings’ success this year will be running back Marquise Berry, who started two years ago, but missed last season.

The Vikings’ offense will have many holes to fill, with only two starters returning. Replacing those spots and developing some depth

MARQUISE BERRY

CADEN SCHRAGE

will be the keys to success this season for the Vikings, according to Capitani.

Capitani said the biggest strength of this team will be the defense, which returns five of eight starters from last season.

Capitani will be assisted on the sidelines by Daryl Love, Marty Cotter, Steve Hartman and Ryan Parker.

The Vikings opened their season with a home game against Clay Central-Everly Aug. 24.

Wednesday, September 5, 2018 • FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK | 25

NORTHWOOD-KENSETT

CROSS COUNTRY

By Sam Wilmes

T

LAURA HOPPERSTAD

NORTHWOOD-KENSETT

VOLLEYBALL

By Bethany Tennis

T

he Northwood Kensett volleyball team looks to have a positive season with new head coach Ellen Gallagher. Last year, The Vikings finished with an overall record of 7-20 and conference record of 2-6.

“We return a big group of upperclassmen that have done a great job this summer getting to workouts and continuing to better their game,” Gallagher said.

From last season the Vikings lost many key players, including Dusti Bratrud, Lindy Harris, Sarah Pederson and Paige DeArmoun. The team will

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return four letter winners to their lineup. Jaela Parks will be back in the setter position, Natalie Cordle will be in the middle, and Laura Hopperstad and Josie Einterson on the outside pin.

“I am very excited to get things going and see the positive impact their energy will bring us this season,” Gallagher said. “This year will be a great learning experience for both myself and our team.”

Gallagher said the team will work on improving every single day, starting from day one to find success throughout the season. The team is energetic and focused on self-improvement, along with encouraging and helping out their teammates. Gallagher added there have been many girls who have dedicated a lot of their time to volleyball this offseason and will be key contributors to the team.

The Vikings started their season at home with a match against Riceville Aug. 21. Their second match of the season was on the road against North Butler Aug. 23.

26 | FALL SPORTS YEARBOOK • Wednesday, September 5, 2018

he Northwood-Kensett Vikings cross country team hopes an increase in numbers will lead to more success this season.

The Vikings this year will rely on about a half dozen runners, including junior Lindsey Davidson, Top of Iowa Conference runner-up and state qualifier last year. Davidson also qualified for state in track.

Josie Einertson has multiple state track qualifications, and Nathan Hanneman, David Block and Makaio Hoch are also listed as key runners by coach Brendan Ehlke.

“Our numbers should be up a bit from last year, and I look forward to seeing improvements from everyone on the roster,” Ehlke said. “Many athletes have been putting in a lot of miles this summer and will come into the season in better shape than last year.”

Ehlke expects the Vikings’ strength to be runners dedicated to the sport who put in a lot of time in the offseason.

“Weaknesses will be numbers, which make it hard to compete for a team score in both boys and girls,” he said.

Ehlke said to be successful, the Vikings must “continue to work hard every day in practice, pushing each other to reach the best of their abilities.”

He expects Newman Catholic School’s girls’ and boys’ and NashuaPlainfield girls’ cross country teams to be conference favorites.

Troy Einertson will be the Vikings’ assistant coach. This is Ehlke’s seventh year at the school and second as head coach.

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