Spring Sports Preview 2014

SPRING 2014 SPORTS PREVIEW

GIRLS' GOLF | WOMEN'S SOFTBALL | BOYS' TENNIS | TRACK & FIELD

SPEARFISH SPARTANS • LEAD-DEADWOOD GOLDDIGGERS BHSU YELLOW JACKETS • BELLE FOURCHE BRONCS

Page 2

Spring 2014

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spearfish to field young track and field team

By Dennis Knuckles Black Hills Pioneer

joyed some success despite being freshmen and sophomores.

“The boys’ 4x400 relay team were state champions,” said Nida. “We had some other relay teams place (at state), we had some nice things happen in the conference. This year we are going to be older and stronger.”

The snowy cold weather in the Northern Black Hills hasn’t put a damper on Spearfish’s preparation for the upcoming season.

“We have the luxury of having a 200-meter track we can use at Black Hills State University. It’s kind of been practices as usual for us,” Nida said.

Spearfish has to share facilities with the BHSU track and field team, but Nida said for the most part everything has worked out good.

“It gets a little crowded with BHSU in there at the same time, we have been able to make it work for the most part,” Nida said.

Spearfish is still in the process of getting the team together.

“Right now we are just getting our basketball players out, so this is one of the first

SPEARFISH The Spearfish track and field team is looking to have success in the 2014 spring track and field season.

Spearfish track coach Aaron Nida said both the girls’ and boys enjoyed some success last season, despite numerous injuries.

“The girls’ had a lot of injuries last year,” said Nida. “Lizzy Hubbard hurt her ankle and wasn’t able to jump, and she was the returning state champ, so we lost her for state and we had a stress fracture with Ashley Burdit, it just seemed like every time we turned around somebody was getting hurt.”

Despite the injuries the Lady Spartans did enjoy some success.

“The girls’ 4x800 relay team were state champions. Savannah Childers ran really well at state, Caitlin Gehner in the pole vault did well, so we had some nice things happen,” Nida said.

On the boys side, the Spartans also en-

days’ we’ve had the whole team out,” said Nida. “Despite everything we’ve been getting things done to prepare for the upcoming track and field season with the ones who haven’t been involved in winter activities.”

Long distance running will again be a strength for Spearfish.

“Our distance girls will be strong.

Savannah Childers, Gretchen Blain, Caitlin Gehner and Shelby Dittman are returning members of the state champion 4x800 relay team. Our girl throwers really came on towards the end of last year, and we have a couple of throwers who can make some waves at state,” Nida said.

He added the girls’ team was still a little young but they have a nice solid sprint corps with some good distance runners which will make Spearfish a pretty balanced team.

The Spearfish track and field team has also enjoyed an increase in numbers.

“We’ve got over 40 girls’ out, which is big for us,” Nida said. “On the boys’ side we are still young. We have Luke Wietgreffe coming back in the 400 (meter

dash) and he was a solid performer last year. We’ve got three out of the four back from the 4x400 state champions and we have several kids looking to compete for that other spot. In the high jump we have Drew Kaitfors back. He qualified for the in the high jump. We’ve got some good balance.”

Nida said Spearfish has struggled against AA competition.

“AA’s is a struggle for us, just the shear numbers we go up against. There is some talent there,” said Nida. “I don’t want to take anything away from A’s because there are some very talented kids there. It’s just there are not necessarily as many on the same team as compared to AA’s Spearfish’s goal is simple.

“We set a goal to get on the big board at state which is the top eight or so. I think the girls’ and boys’ have a real good shot at that. I think we make a good run at (the Black Hills) conference. Custer and St. Thomas More will be strong and I think we will be pretty strong too,” Nida said.

Members of the 2014 Spearfish girls’ track and field team include: (Not in order) Breonna Beasley, Gretchen Blain, Ashton Burditt, Alexis Burket, Michaela Cermak, Savannah Childers, Miranda Creviston, Jelsie Dean, Shelby Dittman, Gabriel Dryden, Hannah Dunn, Kaylee DuPont, Taylor Ferguson, Hannah Friedrich, Caitlin Gehner, Alissa Griffith, Brooke Grout, Kaitlyn Hinch, Kaycee Johnson, Madison Kaitfors, Allison Kephart, Taylor Koch, Mikayla Koistinen, Kaitlyn Lloyd, Shawnda McDaniel, Kara Morford, Vickie Nachatilo, Ashley Oedenbach, Samantha Pedneau, Alexis Powell, Faith Powers, Natalie Richards, Hannah Riley, Jozlinn Sanders, Hallie Schmidt, Annabelle Schulz, Halle Seyer, Tessa Sleep, Lanae Spargur, Elaina Sparrow, Lauren Sparrow, Shelby Totino, Jewel West, Alyssa Yenglin and Hannah Young. Pioneer photo by Dennis Knuckles

GOOD LUCK ATHLETES! Serving 3 Buffets Every Day

Dinner featuring USDA Choice Prime Rib served nightly Prime Rib & Crab Buffet every Friday & Saturday Night!

(Non-alcoholic beverages included with all buffets.)

Deli Open Nightly

605-578-9777 • www.firstgold.com

Wishing the Golddiggers

A GREAT SEASON!

Doing Business With People You Know and People Who Know You.

78 Cliff Street, Deadwood, South Dakota

Spring 2014

Page 3

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

2014 Spearfish Spartans boys’ track and field team

Members of the 2014 Spearfish boys track and field team include: (not in order) Austin Amich, Blake Bacon, Joseph Barnes, Tanner Batka, Skyler Beringer, Jackson Bogue, Mitchel Bogue, Devon Braun, J.J. Bressler, Curtis Campbell, Kevin Coffield, Chad Dunbar, Taylor DuPont, Sam Everidge, Garrett Feeser, Devan Fox, Steven Glasford, Kiefer Goldberg, Damian Hall, Zack Hanson, Boyce Harr, Justion Harris, Jade Heairet, Cole Heser, Isaac Hill, Jaxon Hinch, Matt Hovdenes, Drew Kaitfors, Devon Kremer, Skyler Langer, Tory Langer, Michael Lochner, Slayton Ludens, Cesar Mendez, Morgan Ness, Hunter Nordwick, Matt Parker, Matt Peterson, Henrey Plumer, Kyle Potratz, Dylan Reiners, Seth Rice, Cole Richards, Austin Rodriguez, Trevor Rombough, Jaxon Rosencranz. Pioneer photo by Dennis Knuckles

Brooke Grout, left, Lizzy Hubbard, middle, and Joseph Barnes, right, show off their talents during the 2013 track and field season. Pioneer file photos

WE TAKE CARE OF OUR STUDENT ATHLETES Effective, customized treatment plans to rehabilitate & prevent sports injuries. ~ Private Physical Therapy Practice ~

605-723-0185 Highway 212 West • Belle Fourche

605-892-2766

Mon.-Fri. 7:15am - 5:30pm

www.bellefourchept.com

1515 5th Ave., Ste. 202, Belle Fourche, SD (behind Tri-State Chiropractic)

Page 4

Spring 2014

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Digger track numbers continue upward movement

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer LEAD — The numbers continue to increase for the LeadDeadwood track program.

Second-year head coach Blake Proefrock said the teams numbered in the mid-30s two years ago.

Total membership last season was 51; between 60 and 65 athletes are on the teams this spring.

Lead-Deadwood’s girls’ squad includes five athletes who qualified for last season’s state A meet.

They are senior Kaitlin Sulentic, junior Stacey Anderson, sophomores Miranda Gallagher and Jade Derby, and ninth-grader Stephanie Stagner.

Derby, Stagner, Gallagher, and Sulentic earned fourth place for the Golddiggers in the 4x200-meter relay at state. This quartet added fifth place in the sprint medley relay.

Anderson, Stagner, Sulentic, and Gallagher competed in the 4x400-meter relay at state.

Sulentic also qualified for state in

the long jump. In addition, Derby and Gallagher qualified for state in the triple jump.

The Golddigger boys’ squad includes senior Morgan Rogers, junior Joel Fish, and junior Jett Rogers. Morgan Rogers was part of the 4x400-meter relay that finished fifth for Lead-Deadwood at last season’s state A meet. Jett Rogers qualified for state in the pole vault; Joel Fish did likewise in the discus.

Lead-Deadwood’s boys’ team as of press time also includes Trevor Fish, Austin Sales, Aidan Laurenti, Broc Barthel, Zach Ulmer, Bridger Larson, Jackson Percy, Matteo Paglia, Caleb Percy, Kristian Hanna, Christian Casias, Thomas Sperlin, Bailey Norton, Alex Cottrill, Stephen Oyen, Chris Engel, Ryan Bialas, Colton Radensleben, Devon Schumacher, Cedric Kupferschmid, Nathan Finster, Connor Kuhl, Wade Shoop, Griffen Mackey, Zach Pearson, Garrett Eklund, and Colton Hanson.

Joel Fish is likely one of the favorites to win this season’s Black Hills Conference and region titles

in the boys’ discus, according to Proefrock.

The rest of the Golddigger girls’ team includes Nash Williams, Alexis Simpson, Delaney Voigt, Maddisen Larsen, JJ Voigt, Hannah Rogers, Hanah Cerkoney, Taylor Andersen, Madison Andersen, Miranda Luze, Alex Madsen, Brooke Bialas, Megan Erickson, Cheyenne Gudith, Ijzaya Sterna, Aisha Baum, Amber Auld, Selena Reyes, Clacy Percy, Sydnee Hamann, Ashley Sandidge, and Mariana DeSalvo.

Blake Bauer, Seth Kuchenbecker, Christian Hess, Gabe Dirksen, and Morgan Straub are whom Proefrock cited as the key athletes graduating from last season’s teams.

“We’ll be able to fill many events, especially in the girls’ division,” Proefrock said as he looked toward this season. He added the roster boasts good talent all the way around, and the girls look to be very competitive for the region title.

The increased numbers also help bolster the competitive

level at practices, according to Proefrock.

Proefrock said the squads have worked on focus the first few weeks because the weather is so much different from other places.

“It’s tougher for us,” Proefrock said in describing the weather.

“What is rain at other schools is usually snow for us.”

The Golddiggers’ schedule this season includes three more varsity meets than was the case last year.

“We also go to the Queen City Classic (in Spearfish), Sturgis, and Rapid City, so we will see a lot of strong competition,” Proefrock said.

Proefrock sees Spearfish as the favorite for the Black Hills Conference boys’ and girls’ titles.

He said St. Thomas More boasts a strong girls’ team, and the Custer boys’ team has a lot of talent.

How does Proefrock see LeadDeadwood faring in the conference race? “The girls will be a bit closer to the top than the boys,” he said.

Proefrock said constant improvement, each week and each meet, would make a successful

season for the Golddiggers.

Lead-Deadwood was able to go outside for the first official day of track practice. “This is the first time in my five years here we’ve been able to do that,” Proefrock said.

The Golddiggers enjoyed a solid first week of conditioning, according to Proefrock. They are moving into technique training and picking up fundamentals for each event.

Proefrock was asked what Lead-Deadwood could build on from last season.

“Striving for team success,” Proefrock said. “We want to score more points at meets, emphasize the team, and put together relays.”

Proefrock said he would like to see the team improve in the sprint events this season.

“In the open 100, 200, and 400 (meter dashes), we’re trying to find kids to fill those roles,” Proefrock said. “We have some of that talent and maturity.”

The Golddiggers are tentatively scheduled to open their season March 27 at the Hot Springs Invitational.

Kaitlin Sulentic, left, and Broc Barthel, right, will be key members of the Lead-Deadwood track and field team this spring.

Pioneer file photos

R O F G N I K O O WE’RE L E V A H O T S THE DIGGER EASON! A GREAT S Casino Bar

Main Street Central City • 605-578-1824

Hair’s To You

want to wish all the Diggers Good Luck!

Eyebrow Waxing, Hair Cuts, Color, Perms, Hair Care, Feather Hair Extensions Rita Loeffen Owner/Operator

Sarah Hannah Manager/Operator

605-722-7794

4125 Cliff St., Suite 1 • Deadwood

Spring 2014

Page 5

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

2014 Lead-Deadwood track and field team

Members of the 2014 Lead-Deadwood girls’ and boys’ track and field team include: (not in order) Nash Williams, Alexis Simpson, Delaney Voigt, Maddisen Larsen, Miranda Gallagher, Stacey Anderson, JJ Voigt, Jade Derby, Kaitlin Sulentic, Stephanie Stagner, Hannah Rogers, Hanah Cerkoney, Taylor Andersen, Madison Andersen, Miranda Luze, Alex Madsen, Brooke Bialas, Megan Erickson, Cheyenne Gudith, Ijzaya Sterna, Aisha Baum,ww Trevor Fish, Morgan Rogers, Jett Rogers, Austin Sales, Joel Fish, Aidan Laurenti, Broc Barthel, Zach Ulmer, Bridger Larson, Jackson Percy, Matteo Paglia, Caleb Percy, Kristian Hanna, Christian Casias, Thomas Sperlin, Bailey Norton, Alex Cottrill, Stephen Oyen, Chris Engel, Ryan Bialas, Colton Radensleben, Devon Schumacher, Cedric Kupferschmid, Nathan Finster, Connor Kuhl, Wade Shoop, Griffen Mackey, and Zach Pearson.

Not pictured are: Amber Auld, Selena Reyes, Clacy Percy, Sydnee Hamann, Ashley Sandidge, Mariana DeSalvo, Garrett Eklund and Colton Hanson.

Pioneer photos by Jason Gross

Looking for Championship Coverage?

OUDLY SUPPORT R P E W OUR BRONCS!

Meet your Farmers Insurance agent,

Stephanie Lee one-on-one today!

Stephanie Lee Life and Financial Services Agent 807 10th Avenue • Belle Fourche, SD 57717 • 605-723-2046

www.bellefourche.org 1111 National Street • Belle Fourche • 605-892-2467

Page 6

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2014

Broncs’ track season a work in progress

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer BELLE FOURCHE — The early days of this track season have been a work in progress for Belle Fourche and first-year head coach Bill Abell.

“We have several returning kids like Kassie Willard, Brooke Howell, and Shayla Howell,” Abell said. “I am trying to get to know names.”

Eighth-grader Shayla Howell earned eighth place in the girls’ 100-meter dash at last season’s state A meet. She also qualified in the high jump and 200-meter dash.

Nicole Kling, a junior, also competed at state, qualifying in the 300-meter hurdles.

Josh O’Byrne (senior) and Bryson Westland (sophomore) were part of the Bronc boys’ 4x200-meter relay that finished eighth at last season’s state A meet.

Those two and sophomore Jalen Powers also helped Belle Fourche qualify for state in the boys’ 4x100-meter relay.

Senior Thomas Green qualified for last season’s state A meet in the boys’ 110-meter hurdles.

“Our game plan is to throw kids in as many events as possible,” Abell said.

He added the team’s distance program is a work in progress, and Chris Riley is coaching those runners.

Abell said the athletes seem to have a solid work ethic in early-season workouts.

“We’re not looking at events,” he said.

“We’re doing a lot of strength training and getting to know one another.”

The schedule poses a big concern for Abell. He coached the track team at class B Newell last season and said he has had to adjust his sights.

“We are in the toughest region and conference in the state,” Abell said. “St. Thomas More, Spearfish, Custer, and Hill City all throw out quality kids each year.”

Abell added the athletes keep increasing their performance levels.

Abell picked Spearfish as the favorite in the Black Hills Conference race, based on numbers and talent. He said he hopes the Broncs can earn placings at that meet.

“I also try to teach life lessons and help them improve as kids,” Abell said.

What will it take for Belle Fourche to enjoy a successful track season?

“Everything until the Black Hills Conference meet is a building point,” Abell said. “Standards are set at the first meet; the ultimate goal is reaching the state meet.”

Early-season strength training has been the focal point of workouts.

Abell said the biggest challenge he faces is a conflict between the state A track meet and South Dakota High School regional rodeos. He added several members of the track team also compete in rodeo.

The state A track meet is set for May 30 in Madison and May 31 in Sioux Falls.

Belle Fourche’s Thomas Green, right, returns to run the hurdles for the Broncs track and field team. Pioneer file photo

o !

G Em ' t e G

Good Luck

Spartans!

605-642-2944 638 E. Colorado Spearfish, SD

Vintage and repurposed furniture and home decor

120 E Jackson Blvd., Spearfish • 605•645•5766 Open Friday-Saturday 10AM-6PM

Spring 2014

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Page 7

2014 Belle Fourche track and field teams’

Members of the 2014 Belle Fourche girls’ and boys’ track in field team include: (not in order) Addison Middleton, Bret Woelber, Tori Anderson, Judith Schmitz, Kassie Willard, Tori Dungey, Emily Vinyard, Amber Jewett, Kylie Boston, Aleida Weinzetl, Kaylee Fischer, Alyssa Juelfs, Alicia Absher, Amber Ranken, Katie Baker, Nicole Kling, Brooke Howell, Shayla Howell, Rosalie Schilling, Janie McAmis, Sentel Johnson, Tulsa Torres, Bricee Bisgaard, Sierra Rosales, Moriah Gonzales, Jordan Hanson, Amanda Wolterstorff, Heather Absher, Cody Tupper, Michael Ryan, Louis Budmayr, Kevin Gabert, Damian Tobar, Airon Babbs, Thomas Green, Zach Lange, Jace Horman, Jake O’Byrne, Braydin Eastman, Austin Mette, Bailey Lawrence, Taylor Pickett, Tate Gatzke, Dylan Hoard, and David Mead. Pioneer photos by Jason Gross

to all area sports teams!

OFF Per Gallon

(One time use per household.

May not be combined with any other offers. Must bring in this ad.)

203 W. Hudson Spearfish, SD 57783

605-642-4733

National Reach. Local Expertise.

The Nation’s largest building material supplier to professional builders.

Page 8

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2014

BHSU preparing for outdoor track season

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — The Black Hills State University track and field teams are getting ready for the outdoor season. This campaign begins with the Yellow Jacket Spring Open in Spearfish on March 29.

Some key members of the men’s team returning for the outdoor season are junior Jacob Johnson (throwing events), senior Jonathon Grace (jumping events), senior Mitch Kraft (distance events), senior Dan Mayer (pole vault), and senior Riley Miessner (multievents).

Women’s team returnees include senior Madison McLaughlin (throwing events), junior Avery Allen (throwing events), senior Kelli Anderson (sprinting events), senior Kristin Rath (hurdles and sprinting events), senior Sarah Evans (sprinting events), senior Paige Follett (hurdles events), and senior Trisha Koch (jumping and sprinting events).

Black Hills State graduated four main athletes from last season’s outdoor track season. They were Jacob Wilson, Brady Clark, Laine Parish, and Erin Curran.

“We have good camaraderie,” Yellow Jackets’ head coach Seth Mischke said when asked about the team’s strengths. “There is a family feel on the team, and the athletes pull for one another.”

Mischke is starting his third season as Yellow Jackets’ head coach.

“We will try to score points in as many events as we can,” he said. “We have improved depth.”

Last season, Mischke said, the Yellow Jacket teams scored in only a few events and seek better numbers in that endeavor this spring.

Mischke said understanding how training will benefit athletes at season’s end is something that

needs to be worked on. He added it is important to stay committed to training.

“You can’t gauge success by wins and losses,” Mischke said.

“In track and field, it comes down to the conference meet.” This season’s meet is May 4-6 in Alamosa, Colo.

The Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference has earned a reputation as a top-notch circuit in NCAA Division II. “The season is over before we know it,” Mischke said. “We will see all of the conference teams, and we must stay healthy.”

Mischke said Adams State has a great chance to win the men’s and women’s outdoor titles in the RMAC. The Grizzlies won both indoor titles by large margins.

Black Hills State should fare better outdoors than indoors, according to Mischke.

He said the team will be able to cover more events, and some athletes are coming off indoor seasons in which they redshirted.

Mischke cited several factors that will help the Yellow Jackets enjoy a successful season. They include the athletes being properly coached and technically sound.

Athletes resumed their routines on March 10, when they returned from the school’s spring break.

“We want to get back in training mode, and we hope the kids are rested,” Mischke said.

Mischke said depth is an area that Black Hills State can use to build on for this year.

“Our goal is to score more points and place higher than last year,” he added.

Black Hills State finished sixth in the men’s division at last season’s outdoor conference meet.

The Yellow Jacket women’s squad earned eighth place.

PLAY hard have FUN G

Black Hills State’s Courtney Chase, left, will once again be running distance for the Black Hills State women’s track and field team. Pioneer file photo

SPEARFISH FOREST PRODUCTS

Spearfish, South Dakota (605) 642-7741

Great Products • • y Gr ea str e r tP o F eo at pl e r e

Spring 2014

Page 9

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

BHSU 2013 track and field athletes in action

Jake Gill, far left, Trisha Koch, top left, Nathan Carillo, top right, and Mitch Kraft, left, Will show off their talents this spring for the Black Hill State track and field team.

Pioneer file photos

Have a Taco-rific Season

DIGGERS! Serving breakfast Mon-Sat 7:30am Drive-Thru • 8am Dine-in Sun 8am Drive-thru • 8:30am Dine-in

NEW…

A whole new way to TJ!

Sante Fe

BURRITOS & BOWLS

Locally owned & operated for 17 years!

86 Charles St., Deadwood • 605-578-3975

Page 10

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2014

Spearfish returns veteran golfers

By Dennis Knuckles Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — The Spearfish High School girls’ golf team had success last season in the Class A ranks, and they hope to continue that success this season as they move back up to AA. Last year we ended up alright and hit our expectations,” said Spearfish golf coach Eric Ligtenberg. “We kind of had a long, slow process of getting there, but we peaked at the right time because we got fourth in state.

“I was really satisfied with their

performance in May at the end of the season, and hopefully we can maybe get the ball rolling and get a little bit of momentum earlier this year than what we did last year.”

The Spartans have 15 girls competing for six spots on the varsity team.

“We have about 10 girls back from last year. Brianna Grout and Nellie and Jillian Enderby are our three core golfers returning. As for the other three, it takes six players to make a team, it’s hard to make a real prediction but right now I would have to say Hayley Jensen, Marissa Hight and Kajsa Iverson

will probably be the next three varsity players,” Ligtenberg said.

Ligtenberg added this is his early season varsity roster, but there is always room for movement as a team, as the season progresses.

The weather hasn’t cooperated with allowing the team to practice outdoors, which is normal for spring sports in the Northern Black Hills.

“We hit it hard. We do fundamentals, try to get them going and get them in golf condition and let them golf nine holes if the weather conditions are OK,” said Ligtenberg. “We always come up with something creative inside

Members of the 2014 Spearfish girls’ golf team include: (not in order) Brianna Grout, Erin Griffith, Marissa Hight, Kajsa Iverson, Madi Ulin, Nellie Enderby, Jessica Hartman, Jillian Enderby, Haley Jensen, Jenna Geist, Rachel Jensen, Savanna Sewell, Cayce Clark and Ryan Johnson. The Lady Spartans are coached by Eric Ligtenberg. Pioneer photo by Dennis Knuckles

We’re Cheering For You! Michael R. Dana, D.D.S, P.C. Nicole D. Dana, D.D.S. Monique M. Dana, D.D.S Bradly R. Dana, D.D.S.

DANA DENTAL ARTS A GENERAL & COSMETIC DENTAL PRACTICE

1306 Main Street, Spearfish • 605-642-7727 888-826-7470 • Visit us on the web at danadentalarts.com

to challenge them and make them improve’ but you really have to be outside to learn how golf is played.”

Ligtenberg said he still has high expectations for his team this season, even though they are moving back up to the AA ranks.

“Even though we’ve gone to AA from A, we didn’t lose anybody, and I think we’ll get better from last year to this year as long as we stay healthy,” Ligtenberg said.

The Lady Spartans finished eighth at last year’s state A tournament, but Ligtenberg thinks they can be a top 10 team in AA this season.

“I look for us to finish in the top and come home with some kind of hardware,” said Ligtenberg.

“You know AA is so bunched up.

I think there may be one or two teams at the top in the state, but there is definitely room from three through eight to be in one of those spots.”

What does having a successful season mean to the Spearfish golf team?

“To measure success I would say if we are in the top eight and come home with hardware. Ther are 17 teams in AA and I would be disappointed if we aren’t in the top half,” Ligtenberg said.

Spring 2014

Page 11

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spartan golfers in action

Brianna Grout, left, and Jillian Enderby, right, and Nellie Enderby, top, are three veteran golfers retrurning to the Spearfish girls’ golf team for the 2014 spring golf season.

Pioneer file photos

Mark’s Old School Barber & Style Shop

Good Luck Area Teams!

GOOD LUCK

to All Area Teams!

38 Years of the Finest Service!

114 W. Hudson St., Spearfish, SD 57783

(605) 642-8603

2301 Colorado Blvd., Spearfish, SD 57783 605-642-8535

Page 12

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2014

Young Golddiggers ready for golf season

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer LEAD — Lead-Deadwood girls’ golf team will be going through a youth movement this spring.

“We are very young,” head coach Laura Rogers said. The third-year Golddiggers’ coach went on to say that players lack experience playing on the high school team but have participated in junior programs.

Senior Ashley Hansen, senior Alexis Stevens, and junior

Courtney Gould are three of the Golddiggers’ key returning players. Ninth-grader Ally Specht, ninth-grader Taylor Beagle, ninth-grader Sydney Auld, and eighth-grader Emily Fox are younger players who were on the team last year.

“Overall, we had a good season,” Rogers said of the 2013 campaign. The Golddiggers finished third at the Black Hills Conference tournament and fourth at the Region 4A tournament.

Stevens finished 11th at the region tournament, and Hansen

placed 16th. Both players qualified for state.

“We have a lot of potential to build on from last year,” Rogers said. “The players have great ball striking ability, and they give each other support.”

Lead-Deadwood will host two events at Elkhorn Ridge this season. A triangular is set for March 27, and Rapid City Central will come to that course for a dual on May 15.

In looking at the schedule, Rogers said the Black Hills Conference has some tough teams.

“Every one of them will be good competition for us,” she added.

How does Rogers see the Black Hills Conference shaping up? “It will be up for grabs for everyone,” she said. “Belle Fourche is decent, and Hot Springs has a good team.

I think we have a great shot at it.”

She said Spearfish is in the class AA ranks.

Rogers and the Golddiggers define consistency as the key to a successful season.

“We have to play well at each moment for 18 holes and get our comfort level,” she said. Rogers

added she would also like for each player to improve individually.

The early-season weather has not allowed the Golddiggers to go outside.

“We’ve been in the gym swinging clubs and doing some work in the weight room,” Rogers said.

Rogers said consistency would also pose one of the team’s biggest challenges this season.

“We missed nine scheduled meets due to the weather,” she said in recalling the 2013 season.

“We hope the weather is also more consistent.”

The Lead-Deadwood girls’ golf team includes (not in order) Alexis Stevens, Taylor Beagle, Courtney Gould, Sydney Auld, Ally Specht, Emily Fox,, Jasmine Lary, Alexia Wright, Olivia Rogers, Hailey Trewhella ad head coach Laura Rogers Ashley Hansen is not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

D O O G !

L L A C

Not only preventing injury but optimizing your sports performance!

Call now for your Complementary Consultation.

Wishing You A Great Season!

“Health is your most valuable possession.”

Dr. Abby Johnson, DC | Palmer Graduate p 605.723.3434 f 605.723.3436 1407 5th ave Suite 200 Belle Fourche, Sd 57717

www.BFfamilychiropractic.com

605-892-2001 800-824-5183 601 Butte Street, Belle Fourche

Spring 2014

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Page 13

Lady Golddigger golfers in action

Alexis Stephens, far left, Ally Specht, above, and Ashley Hansen, left, are returning golfers for the Lady Golddiggers golf team this season.

Pioneer file photos

A R O F P U R GEA !

N O S A E S T A GRE 204 5th Avenue Belle Fourche 605-723-1000

Open: 9am - 5pm Mon.-Fri. Sat. appointment only www.BelleFourcheCars.com

New Construction, Remodeling & Repairs • • • •

Plumbing Heating Sheet Metal Air Conditioning

BEST OF LUCK to All Area Teams!

614 South 32nd Street • Spearfish, SD • 605-642-5755

Page 14

Spring 2014

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Bronc girls’ golf team returns experience

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer BELLE FOURCHE —The Belle Fourche girls’ golf team accomplished many things in 2013, and three players return to help lead the Broncs this spring.

“We had a really successful season,” head coach Clark Gusso said in recalling 2013.

“We won the Black Hills Conference title and finished second in the region. It was a banner year.”

The Belle Fourche girls’ golf team includes Liz Day, Emily Collins, Avery Middleton, Gabrielle Kiewel, Jade Burr, and Caitlin Ringling.

Bailee Ward is not pictured.

Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

The Broncs lost Melanie Nelson and Molly O’Connell to graduation. Nelson was the senior team captain, and O’Connell qualified for four state tournaments.

Gusso is starting his 14th season as girls’ golf coach.

He said Belle Fourche would depend on returning players Bailee Ward (junior), Liz Day (senior), and Jade Burr (eighth-grader) to put the team in position.

“We need to find a golfer for the number 4 spot,” he said.

Day earned third place at last season’s conference tournament, with Burr securing the fourth spot.

The Region 4 tournament ended with the Broncs qualifying a full team.

Day claimed runner-up honors, with Burr placing fifth and Ward finishing 15th.

State tournament action last year finished with Day in 14th place.

“Those three return tremendous competitive golf experience,” Gusso said in de-

scribing Ward, Day, and Burr. “They hit the ball well and are also consistent.”

When it comes to this season, Gusso said his focus as a coach is the development of younger players to fill the fourth and fifth spots.

Eighth-grader Gabby Kiewel competed on the Broncs’ junior varsity last season. Gusso said seventh-graders Caitlin Ringling and Avery Middleton are showing promise.

The Broncs’ immediate plans changed when sophomore Emily Collins sustained what Gusso termed a freak shoulder injury during practice.

Gusso said Collins gained experience last season, and the team will have to wait and see what happens.

In examining the schedule, Gusso said the gap between the Black Hills Conference and region fields is strong because class AA Spearfish is in the conference but is not part of the region lineup.

“Spearfish should be very strong in the conference,” Gusso said. “Hot Springs has been historically strong, and Lead-Deadwood lost some quality golfers.” He added Custer’s roster has eighth-graders and is in a rebuilding phase.

Gusso sees Spearfish as the Black Hills Conference favorite, based on last year.

“We could be in the top three despite the injury (to Emily),” he said.

Qualifying a team for the state A tournament is always a goal for the Broncs. A team does that by finishing first, second, or third at the region tournament.

“We also want to keep improving as a team and try to get everyone to do well at the same time,” Gusso said.

He added other team goals also emphasize course management.

Gusso said the players must set their own individual goals. He added goal setting is easy, but difficult, due to the sport’s individual component.

As is often the case in South Dakota, the weather has hampered early practice schedules. Belle Fourche players spent the first two days inside watching instructional videos and going over the rules. They were later able to get onto the course to work BRONCS Pg 15

GO

SPARTANS! 605-559-0344

134 Ryan Road, Spearfish, SD Open Mon-Sat 11am-9pm Like us on

Spring 2014

Page 15

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

from Pg 14

BRONCS on chipping and putting. Some also played two holes.

What can the Broncs build on from last year?

“We had a tough day on the first day of the state tournament,” Gusso said. “We didn’t adjust well, and we dug a deep hole for ourselves.”

Last year’s state tournament lasted only one of the two scheduled days.

Weather forced cancellation of the second day after teams had played just three holes.

Gusso said because of that, the team has discussed playing as well as possible on the first nine holes of an 18-hole event.

He stressed the importance of playing each shot as an individual one, and a tournament may not last the scheduled 18 holes.

The Broncs are slated to start their season at the Rapid City Invitational on March 21 at Red Rock Country Club.

For Your Local

Golf Results...

Read The

The latest winter burst that dumped at least five inches of snow in the Northern Hills forced the Belle Fourche girls’ golf team indoors on Tuesday. Team members checked out equipment including shirts, jackets, and golf bags. Top left, Bailee Ward and Emily Collins search for a jacket that properly fits. Bottom left, Jade Burr makes certain she has all the equipment she needs. Top right, Liz Day strokes a putt during the 2013 golf season. Pioneer photos by Jason Gross

Black Hills Pioneer

Good Luck Athletes!

Gaming Antique Slot Display

Good Luck Athletes!

Dining

Outdoor Main Street Dining Sports Bar & Grill

197 Glendale Dr., Lead, SD 57754 605.584.2622

Open late for eating!

637 Main Street, Deadwood • 605-578-2025

Member

www.firstnationalbanks.com

Page 16

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2014

BHSU golf ready for spring golf season

By Dennis Knuckles Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — The BHSU women’s golf team hopes to improve as it begins the spring session of golf in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.

“Getting that experience last year really helped and them to understand how the conference really works. There’s some really good teams in the RMAC and we enjoyed playing against them and hopefully we can bring our game up to their level of competition,” said BHSU golf coach Jamie Bentley.

“Overall I was very pleased with our performance last fall,” said Bentley. “The RMAC is a little different competition than we are used to, it’s a little better, but playing last season in the final season of transition in the RMAC really helped make us a little better and helped us improve.”

Returning for the spring session will be veterans McKenzie Watson, Kaydee Good, Kaitlin Stevens and Amanda Johnson.

With the snow and cold that has been hanging around the Black Hills on a consistent basis, the Lady Jackets have struggled to get in practice rounds.

“It’s definitely been a struggle. We’ve been hitting golf balls inside a lot. We haven’t been outside yet for a practice,” Bentley said.

BEST OF LUCK to all Area Teams!

Rick Ellerton Agent

605-642-5873

EllErton InsurancE agEncy, llc (formerly Black Hills Insurance Services)

1140 N. Main, Spearfish

The short game will determine how successful the Lady Jackets are this spring.

“We always hope our short game is good because that is where you save a lot of strokes, and that is what we focus on,” said Bentley. “I think we understand that, so they continue to work on it and I think that will be the strength of our team overall.”

Bentley continued to talk about the importance of having a good short game and how that relates to having success in the RMAC. “You can never be too good at it and hopefully they will continue to remember that. In our part of the country its just getting out and playing and to be able to go outside and hit balls on the course and being in a natural playing situation,” Bentley said.

Bentley said her team has to improve if they want to be in the top tier of the RMAC. “I think we are in the middle of the pack right now in the conference,” said Bentley.

“I think we have the potential to move up in the standings, but to do that we have to get out and practice. We definitely have the potential to put up good numbers and that’s what we are focused on moving forward.”

Weather permitting, Black Hills State is scheduled to play its first tournament of the spring season on March 30.

Members of the 2014 spring Black Hills State women’s golf team are: (not in order) Kaydee Good, Amanda Johnson, McKenzie Watson, Paige Erickson, Kaitlin Stevens, Ashley Pearson, and head coach Jamie Bentley. Photo courtesy BHSU Communications Department

We are Wishing the Area Athletes a Safe & Successful Sports Season! l is home Jackson Denta mily’s fa for you & your s. ed dental ne

Christopher J. Jackson, DMD • John H. Jackson, DDS

Jackson Dental is an Exclusive Provider for

Under Armour Mouthguards.

Under Armour - protecting your teeth, enhancing your performance.

New Patients Welcomed • Extended Hours • Fridays Available

(605) 892-6347 • (877) 412-2978 www.jacksondentalclinic.com • Check Us Out on Facebook

Spring 2014

Page 17

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

2014 Black Hills State women’s golf team

Black Hills State golf coach Jamie Bentley said the short game will the key to how successful the Lady Jackets are, during the spring golf season, in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. Photo courtesy BHSU Communications Department

Join the Pump House Coffee Club Team!

16 oz. House coffee or FREEK! 20 oz. Aquapure water.

N I R D

Present this coupon for 1 free

No purchase necessary. One per customer.

73 Sherman Street • Deadwood, SD 57732 • 605-571-1071

Pronto Wishing all the Digger teams

GOOD LUCK this season!

101 US Hwy 14A, Lead

605-584-3500

Page 18

Spring 2014

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spearfish tennis team looks to gain experience

By Jason Gross Black Hills Pioneer SPEARFISH — The Spearfish boys’ tennis team brings a new lineup into a season scheduled to start April 5 when Aberdeen Central comes to Spearfish for a 2 p.m. dual.

Junior Ryan Lahr is the only returning player from last season. The team’s other 10 members are helping the program make a fresh start.

Sophomore Bryce Thorman is also

a member of the team. Other players are ninth-graders Rylee Sundermann, Jacksyn Bakeberg, Logan Broeder, Logan Burket, and Corey Hoffman; eighth-grader Carter Thorman; and seventh-graders Josh Johnson, Tim Doerges, and Waylon Nelson.

Head coach Doug Dexheimer is beginning his 16th season as head coach.

He said many of this season’s players arrived from the school’s physical education program.

Dexheimer said last season was difficult,

as some players did not finish the season.

“The ones who stayed on, improved,” he said.

Mike Maskell (Flight 1 singles), Logan Zvorak (Flight 2 singles), and Lahr (Flight 4 singles) represented the Spartans at last season’s state tournament. Jair Ragels and Justin Harris also competed during the season.

Dexheimer said the main goals this season are to help the players get started in the sport and develop good fundamentals.

“We would like for the players to get to

understand the sport, and we hope they will continue,” he added.

The schedule is difficult, Dexheimer said. St. Thomas More, Campbell County (Gillette, Wyo.), Rapid City Stevens, and Rapid City Central are on the slate as well as Aberdeen Central.

Dexheimer said the Spartans want to give it their best effort and see their individual games improve.

Players have used the winter tennis program to work on service returns and tennis strokes, according to Dexheimer.

Members the 2014 Spearfish boys’ tennis team includes (not in order): head coach Doug Dexheimer, Rylee Sundermann, Jacksyn Bakeberg, Ryan Lahr, Josh Johnson, Tim Doerges, Waylon Nelson, Logan Broeder, Bryce Thorman, Logan Burket, Carter Thorman, Corey Hoffman, manager Karla Meza, manager Makayla Shepard, and manager Abigail Van Fleet. Manager Gabby Lewis is not pictured. Pioneer photo by Jason Gross

Coreen Lerwick, Agent 125 E. Colorado Blvd.

Spearfish, SD 57783 Bus: 605-642-8141 www.coreenlerwick.com

P097277.2

Jodi Garcia, Agent

1230 North Ave. Spearfish, SD 57783 Bus: 605-642-8352 www.insuremejodi.com

Duke Boston Ins Agcy Inc Duke Boston, Agent 1826 5th Avenue Belle Fourche, SD 57717 Bus: 605-892-4628

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL

Spring 2014

Page 19

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spearfish tennis team in action

The Spearfish tennis team goes through workouts to prepare for the spring tennis season.

Pioneer photos by Jason Gross

GOOD LUCK AREA TEAMS!

Let us put your advertising dollars to work for you!

We can print your logo on: T-Shirts • Sweatshirts • Jackets • Polos • Mugs • Denims • Caps Pens • Can Coolers • Umbrellas • Tote Bags & More!

LET’S GO SPARTANS! DRIVE A LITTLE, SAVE A LOT

Floorcoverings: (605) 642-0160 • Quality Furniture: (605) 642-3822

AND EMBROIDERY

511 State St., Belle Fourche, SD • 605-892-4930

Located at O’Neil Plaza off I-90 Exit 12 • Mon.-Fri. 8:30-5:30, Sat. 8:30-4:30 Serving the Black Hills Since 1954

Page 20

Spring 2014

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

BHSU softball season underway Pioneer Staff Reports SPEARFISH — The Black Hills State women’s softball team have struggled to begin the 2014 softball season.

The Lady Jackets are off to a 1-14 start.

Black Hills State started its season going 0-5 at the Desert Stinger Tournament in Las Vegas.

They picked up their first win of the season 6-2, on March 10, against Fort Lewis, in Spearfish.

Black Hills State coach Amy Gurney said the team showed improvement against Fort Lewis “It was better as far as attitude and confidence go,” said Gurney.

“Our pitchers went all seven

innings and hit their spots. On offense, it was a case of believing in ourselves.”

Sunday, the Lady Jackets traveled to Colorado Springs to take on the UC-Colorado Springs Mountain Lion. UC-Colorado Springs took a doubleheaders over the Black Hills State, winning 8-0, and 3-2.

In Game 1, the Lady Mountain Lions scored three runs in the first inning.

After scoring no runs in the second inning, UCCS managed to score a run in the third an fourth innings before closing out the game with five runs in the fifth inning.

UC-Colorado Springs was led

offensively by Nikki Hoffman and Emily Jennings, who combined for six RBIs and three hits, in the win.

Lady Jacket pitcher Kaitlin Farrar, took the loss in the game after going four innings and giving up four earned runs on eight hits.

Black Hills State’s Katie Campo went 1-for-2 and had a double to right field as the team’s lone extra base hit in the top of the fourth inning.

The only other BHSU batters to notch a hit in the game were Alexis Shaffer and Brittnay Geersen.

Game 2 went all seven innings.

UC-Colorado Springs scored first in the opening inning after a bases loaded walk to Nikki

Hoffman, bringing home the first run of the game.

Black Hills State answered back in the second inning on a Sara Schmid solo homerun to center field, which was her first home run of the season.

In the fourth inning, the Jackets tied the game at two runs a piece when Campo hit an RBI double to right field that allowed Katherine Drake to score.

The pitcher’s dual ended with a UC-Colorado Springs walk-off home run over the left field wall

by Jessica Belsterling to give her team the 3-2 victory.

Belsterling also pitched another complete game for the Lady Mountain lions striking out seven

Yellow Jackets and surrendering just four hits to move to 5-2 on the season.

Yellow Jackets pitcher Savanah Eckhardt, went six and a third innings, giving up just three earned runs on five hits and was the losing pitcher.

The Lady Jacket s are now 1-14 overall on the season and 1-9 in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference play.

Black Hills State starts an eightgame homestand on Saturday, March 22, when it hosts Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference opponent Metro State, at the BHSU Softball Complex, in Spearfish.

Game times for the doubleheader are at noon and 2 p.m.

Katie Campo, Sara Schmid, Erica Everson, Alexis Shaffer, Brittany Geersen, Katherine Drake, Cassie Smith, Stefanie Witman, Nia Shumpert, Rebecca Green, Kayla Hallock, Brooke Grant, Kaitlin Farrar, Ryan Cook, Savanah Eckhardt, head coach Amy Gurney, assistant Chad Kruckenberg, and assistant coach Keri Tricinelli.

Photo courtesy BHSU Communications Department

GOOD LUCK to all the Digger Teams!

95 Sherman Street • Deadwood • (605) 578-2479 • Open 6am-10pm

Good Luck Diggers on a Winning Season!

UNDER NEW IP OWNERSH

Spring 2014

Page 21

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

BHSU softball team in action

Pictured is action from the Fort Lewis vs. Black Hills State University softball game held on March 10, at the BHSU Softball Complex. BHSU picked up its first win of the season in the second game of the doubleheader by defeating Fort Lewis 5-4. Pioneer file photos

Good Luck Athletes!

TimoThy R. Johns tjohns@johnskosellaw.com

Joseph m. Kosel jkosel@johnskosellaw.com

Attorneys at Law

605-717-2889

203 West Main Street • Lead, SD 57754 • www.JohnsKoselLaw.com

Pain or Injury Keeping You Out of the Game?

We can help with injury treatment & prevention.

Good Luck Athletes!

Cathy Sulentic-Morcom, MPT Owner/Physical Therapist

Brandie Rainboth, DPT, OCS Kim Cockrum, MSPT

Experience the Difference Locally Owned & Operated

520 N. Canyon Street, Spearfish • 605-642-7996 • fax: 605-642-5955

www.bhphysicaltherapy.com

Page 22

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

2013 area track and field athletes in action

Luke Donovan, Owner

3227 W. Fairgrounds Loop, Spearfish, SD 57783

donovanlawncare@hotmail.com • (605) 559-1009

Spring 2014

Spring 2014

Page 23

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Thoughts from the sports desk Well, the winter sports season is behind need. Not to mention the economic boost it us and the spring sports season is about to gives the city of Spearfish. begin.

Hopefully the board members of the Unfortunately, someone forgot to tell SDHSAA, including President Wayne Mother Nature.

Carney, leave well enough alone and let the She continues to wreak havoc with spring state tournaments continue on a rotating practices and spring games, leaving many basis. to wonder when will the spring sports seaMy next “shout out” goes to the Black son begin and how long of a season it will hills State women’s basketball team. be.

In its first official season in the Rocky If history has taught us anything its that Mountain Athletic Conference, the Lady nothing is for certain and its hard to preJackets finished 15-11 overall and 13-11 in dict anything, especially the weather in the the RMAC. Northern Black Hills.

They made it all the way to the finals of I for one have had my fill of the “white the conference tournament before losing to stuff” and am ready to put my shovel, winColorado Mesa 73-55. ter gloves, hat and coat away.

Mark Nore and his staff did a bang up job I like to give some ‘shout getting the women ready to play outs” from time to time to game in and game out, despite the recognize some schools and numerous injuries they encounindividuals for their accomtered during the season. plishments.

My next “shout out” goes to My first “shout out’ goes to Lady Jackets basketball players the Spearfish girls’ basketball Chelsey Biegler and Dakota Barrie team for finishing sixth at the for being named to the RMAC state AA girls’ basketball tourShootout All-Tournament team. nament in Brookings.

Biegler finished with 61 points I know they had hoped to (20.3 points per game), 17 reDennis finish higher, but they can be bounds, and eight assists, while Knuckles proud of what they accomBarrie finished with 18 points (6.0 plished. points per game), 19 rebounds, and My second “shout out” goes to Spearfish 15 assists.

High School on the great job they did hostMy final “shout out” goes to all the area ing the girls’ state A basketball tournament winter sports teams on the job they did in Spearfish. during the winter sports season.

Spearfish High School Activities Director Thank you for the memories.

Karen Hahn and her staff did a bang up job You made us laugh, you made us cry, you to ensure the tournament went off without made us happy, you made us sad, but first a hitch and they should be recognized for and foremost you showed us that with hard their work. work and dedication you can do anything Hopefully Spearfish will stay in the rotayou set your mind to do. tion and host the girls’ A state tournament To the seniors on all the area sports again, in a few years. teams, I’d like to wish you the best of luck I know if the South Dakota High School in your future endeavors.

Activities Association had its way all tourThe memories you left behind will alnaments would be held in Sioux Falls. ways be cherished.

Someday that will probably happen, but The NCAA tournament starts this week hopefully not in my lifetime. and I have to say I haven’t seen this wide I think it would be a mistake to hold all open of an NCAA Tournament field in a tournaments in Sioux Falls. long time.

Spearfish is just as capable of hosting the Florida and Arizona seem to be the state tournament as Sioux Falls is, and you favorites, but don’t count out Michigan, don’t have to take my word for it, the 2012 Michigan State, Kansas and Syracuse. and 2014 girls’ state A tournaments that You may have noticed I have left off my were held in Spearfish is all the proof you beloved Kentucky Wildcats.

CHECK OUT THIS FUN UPCOMING EVENT:

Youth Dodge Ball League

Ages 9-16 - Coed Sundays at 2:00PM April 6th, 13th, 27th, & May 4th Registration deadline - Tuesday, April 1st $80.00 for 6-10 Player Teams

SpearfiSh rec & aquaticS center 122 Recreation Ln., Spearfish, SD • 605-722-1430 • spearfishreccenter.com

I have them at least going as far as the Sweet 16. If they go any further they are going to have to play up to their potential, something they haven’t done all year.

That doesn’t mean I won’t be cheering them on each and every game, because trust me I will.

My wife always goes in another room when a Kentucky game is on because I get rather intense.

Nothing wrong with that as long as you channel it in the right way.

I don’t know about you, but I filled out my “billion dollar bracket.”

To think that the odds of someone picking out the perfect bracket is 1 in 9.2 quintillion is mind boggling.

A quintillion, by the way, is 1,000,000,000,000,000,000, or 1 followed by 18 zeros.

If you get a chance go on line and see some of the humorous articles that state the things you have better odds of having happen than winning the ‘billion dollar bracket.’

One was you have better odds of having a vending machine accident than filling out a perfect bracket.

Can it be done?

Highly unlikely, though I’m sure there are plenty of math geniuses out there who think they are smart enough to do it.

Hey, I gave it a shot and even though I may not have a perfect bracket I hope I finish in the top 20 and rake in a cool $100,000.

My final four is Florida, Michigan State, Arizona and Michigan, with Florida and Arizona in the finals, and Arizona taking home the trophy.

My Cinderella team is Stephen F. Austin.

They will make it to the Sweet 16 before Florida bursts their bubble.

Who knows, by the time you read this all my predictions for the Final Four will have been wrong.

Highly unlikely, but stranger things have happened during “March Madness.”

To the coaches in Iowa who quit because parents became to involved, I applaud you.

While taking criticism is part of the job, no one should have to take verbal or physical abuse from parents or any fan for that matter.

If you have a problem with a coach and

how they coach the kids you should cal them and schedule a time where you can address the issues you have.

Not approach them after a game while they are being addressed, not accost them in a rest room, not call them up on the phone and curse them out or leave vulgar messages on their answering machines, not go to local media and spread false rumors or try to get the media to tell a coach they aren’t wanted, and not place for sale signs in front of their house without their knowledge.

Yes coaches should be held accountable and if they aren’t producing, they need to be replaced.

Still they needed to be treated with respect and given the opportunity to do their job without parents and fans interference.

I hope everyone enjoys reading our Spring Sports Preview.

It is stressful putting together, but I do enjoy getting to interact with the coaches and players.

Jason Gross and I worked hard to give you the scoop on the spring sports season, and I hope it proves to be beneficial to you.

However, we couldn’t do it with out cooperation of the schools, coaches, and players.

They set time aside for us to come do interviews and take pictures and for that I say thank you.

On more than one occasion coaches have thanked us for giving their team coverage, so now is my time to return the compliment.

To the coaches I say thank you for your cooperation, which makes it easier for the Pioneer to give your team the coverage they truly deserve. Without your help and cooperation we would struggle giving area coverage.

I know there are times coaches don’t want to talk to us, especially after a tough loss, yet they suck it up and show how professional they can be by doing the interview regardless of how they feel.

Thanks coaches and keep up the hard work. It may seem like it at times, but your work doesn’t go unappreciated.

To all the area teams good luck this spring and remember to practice hard and compete hard and give it all you’ve got.

We’ll be rooting for you.

See you at the sporting events!

Hot & Cold Lattés • Delicious Frappes Dunn Bros Coffee • Tea • Lemonade Italian Sodas • Baked Goods • Treats & More

~ Check out our new Candy Bar Frappes! ~ Outdoor Seating • Great Views • Free WIFI

Page 24

SPORTS PREVIEW / BLACK HILLS PIONEER

Spring 2014

Spring sports 2014 schedule Spearfish girls’ golf

March 21 at RC Invite (Meadowbrook) 1 p.m.

March 25 at RC Invite (Meadowbrook) 3 p.m.

March 27 at L-D (Elkhorn Ridge) 3 p.m.

April 1 at Sturgis 3 p.m.

April 3 at St. Thomas More (Red Rock) 10 a.m.

April 8 at Pierre Invitational 9 a.m.

April 10 at Custer 3 p.m.

April 15 at Belle Fourche Invitational 10 a.m.

April 22 at Sturgis 3 p.m.

April 24 vs. Spearfish Invitational 10 a.m.

April 29 at West River Challenge (at Sturgis) 3:30 p.m.

May 6 vs. West River Challenge (SCCC) 3:30 p.m.

May 7 at Douglas 11 a.m.

May 13 at Belle Fourche 2 p.m.

Spearfish tennis

April 5 vs. Aberdeen 2 p.m.

April 8 vs. St. Thomas More 4 p.m.

April 17 vs. Campbell County 4 p.m.

April 22 at Rapid City Stevens (Sioux Park) 2 p.m.

April 22 at RC Central (Parkview) 5 p.m.

April 29 at Pierre noon May 2 at Rapid City Invitational 2 p.m.

May 3 at Rapid City Invitational 8 a.m.

May 8 vs. RC Central 4 p.m.

May 13 at St. Thomas More (Sioux Park) 2 p.m.

Spearfish track and field

March 29 at Douglas Early Bird 10 a.m.

April 4 at Rapid City (O’Harra Stadium) 10 a.m.

April 11 vs Queen City Classic 9:30 a.m.

April 17 at Belle Fourche 9 a.m.

April 17 at Track-O-Rama (O’Harra Stadium) 9:30 a.m.

April 25 at Pierre noon April 29 at Belle Fourche Northern Hills Qualifier noon May 2 at Howard Wood Relays (Sioux Falls) TBA May 3 at Howard Wood Relays (Sioux Falls) TBA May 3 at Mountain West (Lead-Deadwood) 9:30 a.m.

May 10 at Black Hills Classic (Sturgis) 9 a.m.

May 13 at RC Qualifier (O’Harra Stadium) 2 p.m.

May 16 Black Hills Conference (Belle Fourche) 10 a.m.

May 22 at Rapid City (O’Harra Stadium) noon

Lead-Deadwood girls’ golf

March 21 at Meadowbrook Invite 1 p.m.

March 27 vs. Triangular (Elkhorn Ridge) 3 p.m.

April 1 at Belle Fourche 3 p.m.

April 3 at STM Invite (Red Rocks) 10 a.m.

April 8 at Pierre Invite 9 a.m.

April 8 at Douglas 11 a.m.

April 10 at Custer/Quad 3 p.m.

April 15 at Belle Fourche Invite 4 p.m.

April 17 Pre-Conference/Pre-Regions (Custer) 10 a.m.

April 22 at Sturgis Invite 3 p.m.

April 24 at Spearfish Invite 10 a.m.

May 2 at H Conference (Custer) 10 a.m.

May 8 at Regions (Spearfish) 10 a.m.

May 13 at Belle Fourche Invite 2 p.m.

May 15 vs. Rapid City Central 4 p.m.

Lead-Deadwood track and field

March 29 at Douglas Invite 10 a.m.

April 4 at RC Developmental Meet 10 a.m.

April 11 at Spearfish Queen City Classic 9:30 a.m.

April 17 at Belle Fourche Center of the Nation 2 p.m.

April 25 at Custer Invite 9 a.m.

April 29 at Belle Fourche Northern Hills Qualifier noon May 3 vs. Mountain West Invite 9 a.m.

May 10 at Sturgis Black Hills Classic 9 a.m.

May 13 at Rapid City Qualifier 2 p.m.

May 16 at BH Conference (Belle Fourche) 10 a.m.

May 22 at Region (Belle Fourche) 9:30 a.m.

Belle Fourche girls’ golf

March 21 at Rapid City Invite (Red Rock) 1 p.m.

March 27 at Hot Springs Triangular 3 p.m.

April 1 vs. Belle Fourche Quint Invite 3 p.m.

April 3 at St. Thomas More Invite (Elks) 10 a.m.

April 10 at Custer Quadrangular 3 p.m.

April 14 at Sturgis Invite 4 p.m.

April 15 vs. Belle Fourche Invite 10 a.m.

April 17 Pre-BH Conference Invite (Custer) 10 a.m.

April 24 at Spearfish Invite 10 a.m.

May 2 at BH Conference Invite (Custer) 10 a.m.

May 8 at Region 4A (Spearfish)10 a.m.

May 13 vs. Belle Fourche Quadrangular 2 p.m.

Belle Fourche track and field

March 29 at Douglas Invite 10 a.m.

April 4 at RC Developmental Meet 10 a.m.

April 11 at Spearfish Queen City Classic 9:30 a.m.

April 17 vs. Belle Fourche Center of the Nation 2 p.m.

April 25 at Custer Invite 9 a.m.

April 29 at Belle Fourche Northern Hills Qualifier noon May 3 vs. Mountain West Invite 9 a.m.

May 10 at Sturgis Black Hills Classic 9 a.m.

May 13 at Rapid City Qualifier 2 p.m.

May 16 at BH Conference (Belle Fourche) 10 a.m.

May 22 at Region (Belle Fourche) 9:30 a.m.

BHSU women’s golf

March 21 at MSU-Billings Invite (Billings, Mont.) TBA March 25 at Chadron Invitational (Chadron, Neb.) TBA March 30 at Regis Invitational (Denver, Colo.) TBA March 31 at Regis Invitational (Denver, Colo.) TBA April 1 at Regis Invitational (Denver, Colo.) TBA April 10 vs. BHSU Invitational TBA April 20-22 at RMAC Championships (Phoenix, Ariz.)

BHSU track and field

March 20 at UNC Open/Multi (Greeley, Colo.)

March 21 at UNC Open/Multi (Greeley, Colo.)

March 22 at UNC Open/Multi (Greeley, Colo.)

March 29 vs. Yellow Jacket Spring Open April 5 at UNK Open (Kearney, Neb.)

April 10 at Bauer Invite (Rapid City)

April 17 at Blue Hawk Open (Dickinson, N.D.) May 4-6 at RMAC Championships (Alamosa, Colo.)

May 9-10 at Last Chance Meet TBA

BHSU softball

March 22 vs. Metro St. noon/2 p.m.

March 23 vs. Metro St. 11 a.m./1 p.m.

March 29 vs. N.M. Highlands noon/2 p.m.

March 30 vs. N.M. Highlands 11 a.m./1 p.m.

April 4 at Colo. Christian noon/2 p.m.

April 5 at Colo. Christian 11 a.m./1 p.m.

April 9 vs. Dickinson St. 2 p.m./4 p.m.

April 12 at Regis noon/2 p.m.

April 13 at Regis11 a.m./1 p.m.

April 18 vs. Chadron St. 11 a.m./3 p.m.

April 19 vs. Colorado Mesa 10 a.m./2 p.m.

April 21 at Dickinson St. 1 p.m./3 p.m.

April 26 at Western N.M. 1 p.m./3 p.m.

April 27 at Adams St. 10 a.m./noon

Spearfish Post 164 Legion baseball

May 3 at Sturgis 2/4 p.m.

May 7 vs. Gillette 5/7 p.m.

May 10 at Miles City Outlaws 1/3 p.m.

May 13 vs. RC Stevens 6 p.m.

May 18 vs. Miles City Outlaws 1/3 p.m.

May 28 vs. RC Post 22 7 p.m.

May 31 at Cody. Wyo. 1:30 p.m.

May 31 at Billings Halos 3;30 p.m.

June 1 at Billings, Mont. Billings Angel) 10 a.m.

June 1 at Billings, Mont. (Sheridan) noon June 4 vs. Sturgis 7 p.m.

June 6 at Alliance, Neb. 5/7 p.m.

June 7 at Scottsbluff, Neb. Noon/2 p.m.

June 10 at Pierre 6 p.m.

June 11 vs. Dickinson 5:30/7:30 p.m.

June 13 vs. Tellinghuisen Tourney 7 p.m.

June 14 vs. Tellinghuisen Tourney 5/7 p.m.

June 15 vs. Tellinghuisen Tourney 5 p.m.

June 17 vs. Pierre 6 p.m.

June 18 at Gillette 5:30/7:30 p.m.

June 20 at Brookings Tourney 5/7 p.m.

June 21 at Brookings Tourney 5 p.m.

June 22 at Brookings Tourney 5 p.m.

June 27 at Minot, N.D. (Mandan) 2:30 p.m.

June 28 at Minot, N.D. (Regina Canada) noon June 28 at Minot, N.D. (Minot) 7:30 p.m.

June 29 at Minot, N.D. (Bismarck) 2 p.m.

July 2 vs. Sioux Falls Post 307 1/3 p.m.

July 8 at Sturgis 7 p.m.

July 9 vs. RC 320 7 p.m.

July 15 at RC 320 7 p.m.

July 17 at RC Tourney 1 p.m.

July 18 at RC Tourney 3 p.m.

July 19 at RC Tourney 5 p.m.

July 20 at RC Tourney 7 p.m.