Spring Sports 2014

Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

PAGE 1

FEATURING:

St. Peter Saints • Le Sueur-Henderson Giants Tri-City United Titans • Cleveland Clippers

SPR NG SP RTS Wednesday, April 2, 2014 • Thursday, April 3, 2014

St. Peter softball returns experienced squad to make another run for state

By PAT BECK

pbeck@stpeterherald.com

St. Peter Saints Softball COACHES Head coach: Heidi Niemeyer, 1st year as head coach, 14th year coaching softball in St. Peter Assistant coaches: Tom Witty — 38 years coaching with 17 years at SPHS Sara Beyer — 1st year coaching Amanda McCabe — 1st year coaching KEY PLAYERS • Carolyn Conlon — senior, pitcher, batted .431 last season, last season had 74 strikeouts with only 14 walks and a ERA of 2.36. She will lead the team this year as one of the team captains. “Her experience, drive and determination are going to be key factors in our success,” Niemeyer said.

• Magi Card — senior, infielder, batted .341 last season. “She is a player who can play anywhere in the infield and will make that clutch hit when needed,” Niemeyer said. “I feel she will step up and fill the shoes of her sister, Molly, as one of our strongest hitters this season.”

• Also returning are sophomores Sidney Welp, Emily Carpenter and Jaide Fonde. Welp batted .267 last season and was a utility player. “Her strengths are her fielding and throwing consistency,” Niemeyer said. “She will be a key to our infield. Carpenter batted .250 last

The 2014 St. Peter softball team (front, from left) Emily Carpenter, Jaide Fonde, Mikayla Ogren, Sidney Welp, Emmy Cancino; (middle row) Lauren Chabot, Alex O’Gorman, Carolyn Conlon, Lexi Wilkins, Roberta Leal, Megan Overgaard; (top row) Ingrid Karlsrud, Kirsten Makela, Calli Sizer, Hallie Douglas, Magi Card and Val Bresnahan. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)

season and was quick and strong in the outfield. Fonde batted .261 last season and ran the lengths of the outfield well. Their experience from last year will undoubtedly give them great confidence this season.”

KEEP YOUR EYE ON “Our catching duo senior

Alex O’Gorman and junior Lexi Wilkens,” Niemeyer said. “Both of them have showed growth since last season and a strong willingness to learn, work hard and get better. During our indoor practices, Wilkens has been hitting strong and hard.

“Our other co-captain, senior

Kirsten Makela, will be a huge team factor this year. She leads the team with style, determination, a great work ethic and character like none other.

“Pitcher Mikayla Ogren is back this season from a shoulder injury that sidelined her last year and is working hard to regain her

strength and control.

“Other key players who will be factors in our success are seniors Ingrid Karlsrud, Hallie Douglas, and juniors Valerie Bresnahan, Lauren Chabot, Megan Overgaard, Callie Sizer, Roberta Leal and Emmy Cancino.”

MOVED ON

“Maggie Nelson, Kierstin Karlsrud, Tailor Raymond, Kelly Hilligoss, Maria Siebels and Molly Card were our graduating seniors from last season,” Niemeyer said. “They were great players, hitters and athletes. We hope to do our very best to fill those shoes this season as we work hard, strive for our best and play as a team.”

2013 SEASON OUTLOOK Last year’s overall record for the Saints 11-11, 2nd place in section, 7-5 in conference.

“We have our sights set high on New Ulm and Maple River,” Niemeyer said. “They will both be contenders in our conference and section again this year as always.”

COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “The girls are working hard and doing repetitions to perfect their skills while we are indoors. But we are very eager and excited to get outside and play softball. This team consists of a great group of young ladies who are determined to do their best, be great role models, and leave a great name for themselves and Saints softball. Our win against Maple River last year and making it all the way to the section championship will be fueling our mindset this season. – Heidi Niemeyer, head coach

BY THE NUMBERS 2.57 — Team ERA last season .337 — Team batting average last season

PAGE 2

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

St. Peter baseball returns experienced team

By PAT BECK

pbeck@stpeterherald.com

St. Peter baseball COACHES Head coach: Kurt Moelter, 13th year Assistant coaches: Keith Bense (5th year), Jeff Knutson (30 plus), Ryan Myhra (2nd) KEY PLAYERS Seniors Tom Steidler (.302 batting average, 5-2 record, allconference honorable mention, all-section), Ben Johnson (.302), Ryan Hoehn (.274, 0-1 record, all-conference honorable mention, all-section), Ronnie Pribyl, Brendan Reese (.328, all-conference), Cody Erickson (.245, 0-2 record), Collin Thompson (.400, 1-1 record), Caleb Ebeling, Nick Rosburg Juniors Brett Zallek, Sam Wenner (.426, all-section), Shaun Timmerman, Bailey Kurth MOVED ON Jordan Sorensen, Colin Chabot, Luke Regner, Dyan Connor, Jayce Vetter, Nathan Kempenich, Devin Idso, Joe Atkins SEASON OUTLOOK Last season, the Saints finished 10-11 overall and 3-7 in the South Central Conference. The Saints earned Section 2AA runner-up, losing to Watertown-Mayer.

“The SCC favorites are the usual — Fairmont and New Ulm,” Moelter said. “Our goal every year and this year is to beat each team at least once in the SCC. “In the section, Holy Family is always tough as is Glencoe-Silver Lake. But, it is the team that gets hot at the right time and can avoid injuries will have success and can make a deep run. Our goal is to always get into the double-elimination portion of the section and then to be playing baseball in June and when the school year is over.”

COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We have quite a few returning players off of last year’s team. This is the first time in my 13 years of coaching where we had success the previous season and are still able to return this much experience. Many of these kids have had success in other sports as well.

They have won a lot of football

The 2014 St. Peter baseball team (front row, from left): Jordan Hermel, Mitch Johnson, Cody Erickson, Collin Thompson, Ryan Hoehn, Brendan Reese, Ben Johnson; (middle row): Mitch Harlow, Bailey Kurth, Brett Zallek, Ronnie Pribyl, Shaun Timmerman, Nate Wenner, Alex Hoehn; (back row): Sam Wenner, Dustin West, Nick Rosburg, Tom Steidler, Caleb Ebeling, Cullen Bruce. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)

games and wrestling matches.

This year’s hockey team won a conference title and our basketball team won a section championship and played in state. So, these kids know success and that should only help us as the year progresses.

“Our main goal is to improve with each day and practice. I know it sounds cliché, but that really is our goal. We do not want April to be the month when we are playing our best ball. Obviously, we want to play well enough to have positive results, but if we improve each game and practice, then we will reach some of our ultimate team goals.

“As a team, we have small numbers (13 juniors/seniors).

But, within those numbers is a lot of experience. Besides baseball, all these kids play at least one other sport. I am a HUGE fan of the multi-sport athlete. I strongly believe that a kid should be playing multiple sports. It is good for the kid, the physical development of the kid and also for each program the kids is involved with. Overall,

we have an athletic team where many of the kids will be playing multiple positions throughout the year. The month of April is where we will experiment with different lineups and rotations and then by early May we start solidifying things. By the third week of May we will have our set lineup and everyone on the team will know/ accept their role in order for us to be successful. — Kurt Moelter, head coach

BY THE NUMBERS 13 — Total number of varsity players 1 – “1 team that all members of them team believe in and trust,” Moelter said.

21 – “The number of outs we need to record to earn a win.

There is no clock in baseball and teams can not sit on leads,” Moelter said.

Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck at 931-8566, or follow him on Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat

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Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

PAGE 3

Le SueurHenderson golf teams young, determined

By CJ SIEWERT

csiewert@lesueurnews-herald. com

Le Sueur-Henderson boys and girls golf COACHES Head coach: Cathy Schluter, 30th season at LS-H Assistant coaches: Cedric Schluter, 36th season at LS-H Craig Hink KEY PLAYERS Freshman Carson Stepka received his first letter last year and was a section golf participant. Coach Schluter said Stepka played a lot last summer.

Junior Matt Bjork was a section participant last year and was a steady player.

Junior Kelsey Anderson was a section qualifier last year, as was freshman Hannah Allen.

“Both will need to step up” Schluter said. “They both played all summer and are ready to play.”

KEEP YOUR EYE ON Junior Nolan Bach and freshman Bubba Bach.

“I am asking the Bach brothers to step up this year,” Schluter said.

Junior Sage Grothe and senior Mark O’Connell.

“Sage and Mark should both fill in at the top spots,” Schlueter said.

“We also have a fine bunch of players coming over from Cleveland that gained experience last year.”

Junior Kennedy Straub and sophomore Millie Froelich.

“Both gained experience last year (and lettered) and should slide into full-time varsity with ease,” Schluter said.

Freshman Abby Simota.

“Abby will also make the big

The 2014 Le Sueur-Henderson boys and girls golf team. Front row (from left), Kylie Dunning, Elle Seaver and Marin Kapsner. Middle row, Brent Clapp, Amelia Froelich, Kelsey Anderson, Kennedy Straub, Hannah Allen, Abby Simota and Zach Nugent. Back row, Matthew Bjork, Ryan Bach, Carson Stepka, Nolan Bach, Mark O’Connell, Sam Gerdts and Hank Pfarr. (CJ Siewert/Le Sueur News-Herald)

step to varsity play this spring,” Schluter said. “There are also some promising youngsters and new players on both squads and with golf you never know who has wintered well and will bloom this spring.”

MOVED ON Kelsey Skelly was a state qualifyer last year. LeaRae Enerson was a team leader. And Katie Pfarr was “fashion coordinator and the best No. 6,” Schluter said.

“But we lost another varsity player to open enrollment, one to track, one to Germany and one to homeschooling. The boys lost two to open enrollment and last year’s No. 1 Bill Miller moved out of state.”

SEASON OUTLOOK “Last year’s team finishes were disappointing, but individuals faired well,” Schluter said. “We like to say, ‘You may beat us on the golf course, but we will beat you in the classroom!’ Belle Plaine and Jordan will be tough in the conference and subsection. Last year the

girls were third in both the conference and subsection. The boys were sixth in the conference and fourth in the subsection.”

COMMENT FROM THE COACH “We have nice numbers in the junior class, but need to get younger golfers. It is a great experience and looks good on a resume. You don’t have to have much athletic ability, but it does help. We encourage all skill levels and beginners are welcome.”

– Cathy Schluter, head coach

BY THE NUMBERS 7 — “I am excited to have another Seaver on the team; Elle is a seventh-grader,” Schluter said. “I also look for Cleveland to make a significant contribution this year and for the next several years.”

Reach reporter CJ Siewert at 507-931-8576 or follow him on Twitter @LNHcj

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PAGE 4

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

Le Sueur-Henderson softball looks to underclassmen to step up

By CJ SIEWERT

csiewert@lesueurnews-herald. com

“Last year was her first year catching at the varsity level,” Lewis said. “A year of experience behind the plate and she is ready for a breakout year.”

MOVED ON Briana Williams played pitcher and first base, and was a threeyear letter winner. Ali O’Brien played third base and was a twoyear letter winner.

SEASON OUTLOOK “Last year we finished 10-10,” Lewis said. “We won one game in the section tournament and lost to Holy Family and were beat out of the tournament by Belle Plaine.

We finished fourth in the conference with a record of 8-6.

“In the section this year Belle Plaine, Norwood-Young America and St. Peter will all be very tough and have a chance to represent our section in the state tournament. I think that if some of our youth come together through the season we could give those teams a battle.”

COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We have nine returning starters, and seven of those are sophomores and a freshman. It is exciting to have such a young team that has some experience that we can continue to build upon for a few years.” – Eric Lewis, head coach

BY THE NUMBERS 10 – underclassmen on the roster

Le Sueur-Henderson softball COACHES Eric Lewis, 15th season at LS-H Larry Milam, more than 20 years at LS-H KEY PLAYERS Sophomore Carlie Brandt is a pitcher and shortstop who has lettered for three years. Last year, Brandt was an All-State honorable mention. She is a three-year AllConference member and threetime All-Section member.

“Carlie gives us a lot of experience,” said coach Eric Lewis. “She works very hard at her game and is very determined.

Senior Veronica Sinell is an outfielder and infielder for the Giants who has lettered three years.

“Veronica has excellent speed and gives opponents problems with her offensive skills,” Lewis said.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON Freshman Mikayla Reinhardt lettered last year.

“Last year, Mikayla was at the top of our team in all offensive categories,” Lewis said. “She has some experience now and will look to improve in her second varsity season.”

Sophomore Katherine Cronk lettered last year.

“She is a strong girl with a Reach reporter CJ Siewert at very good arm,” Lewis said. “She showed flashes last year with the 507-931-8576 or follow him on bat and has improved over the off Twitter @LNHcj season.”

Sophomore Sam Winter is a two-year letter winner.

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The 2014 Le Sueur-Henderson softball team. Front row (From left), Kalie Devine, Veronica Sinell and Sophia Oestreich. Middle row, Carlie Brandt, Katherine Cronk, Aubin Bruns and Mikalyla Reinhardt. Back row, Breanna Kroehler, Sam Winter, Mandy Doerr and Acy Adamzak. (CJ Siewert/Le Sueur News-Herald)

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Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

PAGE 5

Le Sueur-Henderson trap shooting continues to grow

By CJ SIEWERT

csiewert@lesueurnews-herald. com

Le Sueur-Henderson trap shooting COACHES Head coach: Deanne McConnell, third year Assistant coaches: Bill Randall, third year Mike McConnell, third year Kyle Hoppe, second year Joe Pfarr, third year KEY PLAYERS Senior Justin Randall, lettered one year; senior Hailee Rogich, junior Austin Braun lettered one year; freshman Brett McConnell, lettered one year; freshman Hunter Pfarr, lettered two years; freshman Cole Wobbrock; freshman Derrick Sejrup; and seventhgrader Andrew Randall.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON “We’ll be watching all our athletes for improved scores and averages throughout the season,” coach Deanne McConnell said.

MOVED ON Nobody graduated from last year.

SEASON OUTLOOK “Our Conference has not yet been announced,” McConnell said “In 2013, LS-H placed fifth out of seven teams in Conference 6A. 2013 top 10 male athletes included Hunter Pfarr and Brett McConnell. Top 10 female athletes included Hailee Rogich, Jessica Dirks and Katelyn Eckblad. We anticipate adding to the list during the 2014 season and improving our place in our conference.”

Members of the Le Sueur-Henderson High School trap team (from left) Andrew Randall, Erika Hoppe, Gavin Dobosenski, Josh Baker and Jessica Dirks competed in the novice class at last year’s three-day Minnesota State High School Clay Target League (MSHSCTL) State Tournament in Alexandria. (Courtesy of Deanne McConnell)

COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We have two seniors returning this year. Justin Randall and Hailee Rogich are both strong shooters and should help carry

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PAGE 6

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

Le Sueur-Henderson baseball has high hopes, young squad

By CJ SIEWERT

csiewert@lesueurnews-herald.com

Le Sueur-Henderson baseball COACHES Head coach: Rick Bruns, 4th year as head coach, assistant coach 16 years prior Assistant coaches: Brad Schmidt, 2nd year Dick Moriarty, 2nd year Mark Roby, 1st year KEY PLAYERS “This year’s team will be led by our two seniors, Brady and Bradley Rose,” said coach Rick Bruns. “Last season, Brady was an All-Conference selection, hitting .344 in Minnesota River Conference play. He also threw a little bit for us and will be leaned on to throw a lot for us this season. In addition, he will be playing third base for the Giants again this season.

“Bradley hit .273 for the Giants last year and did a great job at first base for us. Last year Bradley had a fielding percentage of .932. We are going to need our senior leaders step up once again this season. They have been leaders all season for Giants athletics, and I would expect nothing less than that from them for the baseball campaign.”

KEEP YOUR EYE ON Juniors Tyler Kotasek, Jordan Kahlow and Alex Nelson.

“All played varsity baseball last year as sophomores and gained valuable experience,” Bruns said. “Jordan and Tyler threw quite a few innings for us last year and I expect them to pick up where they left off. Along with Brady, I expect those two to manage the left side if the infield, playing shortstop and third when the other is pitching.

“Alex served much of last season as a designated hitter and third baseman and has made the switch to catcher this season. Although it’s a new position for him, Alex is athletic enough to adapt and I think he’s going to do a great job.

“Jacob Beutler will also be someone who will throw some innings this season, the only lefty on the staff.

At this time, I’m not really sure what my outfield will look like.”

MOVED ON Ryan Moriatry, Chris Pfarr, Alex Klockmann and Matt Rinehart.

“Matt was our catcher for the

The 2014 Le Sueur-Henderson baseball team. Front row (from left), McCray Grams, Mason Zeiher, Ben Barron, Joe Luna and Tim Kroehler. Back row, Bradley Rose, Jordan Kahlow, Kallan H, Brady Rose, Alex Nelson, Tyler Kotasek and Jacob Beutler. (CJ Siewert/Le Sueur News-Herald)

past two years and did a great job handling the pitching staff,” Bruns said. “He’s currently playing collegiate baseball in Iowa.

“Ryan was a leader and someone I describe as a ‘baseball guy.’ He really had a high baseball IQ and played a lot of different positions for us.

“Chris was honorable mention All-Conference for the Giants last year at second base and really elevated his game.

“Klock also logged some innings on the mound for the Giants last season and had some big at bats for us.”

SEASON OUTLOOK “Last year we finished the season 7-12 overall, 4-10 in the MRC,” Bruns said. “I think we were all a little disappointed in that. The conference is going to be pretty solid this year, again. There is a lot of good pitching in the conference, including Brody Rodning (Sibley East) and Derek Dahlke (Belle Plaine) who have both signed NCAA Division

II baseball tenders. With that said, I think that we are going to be pretty good as well and I would be disappointed if we were not in the hunt for an MRC Championship at the end of the season.

“We are going to make sure we stay healthy this year and are going to need some young guys to step up and fill some holes. We only have

seven players in grades 11 and 12.

I’m not sure if they (freshman and sophomores) are ready yet, but they are going to have to be, plain and simple. Seems to be the trend around here athletically. It also helps to get some breaks along the way.”

COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We also have a pretty brutal

subsection. It’s basically the MRC, Glencoe-Silver Lake and Holy Family. There are some very good teams in this subsection, very good.

I guess we’ll have to see how things shake out as we progress through the season. At this time, I would think that NYA, HF and GSL may have the upper hand, but again, I’d like to think that we are more than capable

of making a deep run at things too.

The first concern is the MRC and working towards winning that.” – Rick Bruns, head coach

BY THE NUMBERS 2 – seniors 5 – returning letter winners 10 – number of wins coach Bruns thinks the Giants will win the MRC

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Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

PAGE 7

Le SueurHenderson track young, but has numbers

By CJ SIEWERT

csiewert@lesueurnews-herald. com

THe 2014 Le Sueur-Henderson boys track and field team. Bottom row (from left), Same Rame, Hunter Sippo, Ethan Muell, Aaron Barnard, Lane Schwarz, Jorge Hernandez, Peter Turek, Michael Heinz and Blacke Olness. Middle row, Evan Eibs, Jacob Tesch, Matthew Plieseis, Jared Miller, Cole Riesch, Rhett Streeter, Jose HerLe Sueur-Henderson track nandez, Mason Straub, Logan Hoiland, Daniel Sosa and Frank Turek. Back row, Trevor Thomas, Joseph Mutch, Michael Balder, Aaron Torres, Noah Weiers, Connor Wiederich, John Paul Sosa, Tom Schwarz, Ethan Dwyer, Noah Hynes-Marquette, Shane Boehne and Ben Kroehler. (CJ Siewert/Le Sueur News-Herald) and field

COACHES Head coach: Jeff Christ Assistant coaches: Becky Straub, Mark Vrklan and Allison Beggs KEY PLAYERS Junior McKayla Stowell has been to the state meet every year since eighth-grade in the 100- and 200-meter. She holds school records in both. She looks to return to state for a fourth-straight year.

Junior Alex Haas made his first trip to the state meet last year in the 110- and 300-meter hurdles.

He looks to return again this year.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON Senior Tom Schwarz looks to be a contender in the 200- and 400-meter.

Senior Ethan Dwyer will be strong in the mid-distance and high jump for the Giants.

Senior Julie Ulrich is a distance machine and will run the 1,600, 3,200- and 4x400-meter relay, which is a grueling day for most, but just another day at the office for Julie.

MOVED ON Dustin Gill, a two-time state participant in shot put and discus, who is competing for St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minn.

Zach Grieves, a section qualifier in 800- and 400-meter, also competing for St. John’s.

Adam Schultz, a state participant in discus, competing for Minnesota State University, Mankato.

Gabby Thomas, an all-around

The 2014 Le Sueur-Henderson girls track and field team. Front row (from left), Whitney Weick, Mary More, Evie Beseke, Gabby Straub, Rylie Lynch, Emily Miller and Alexis Ewanga. Middle row, Kinda Spinler, Mackenzie Floyd, Dana Bach, Tori Ladd, Janie Schwartz, Haley Beseke, Faith Mumphrey, Maddy Meyer, Kim Scheffler, Cassidy Hill and Angela Berkland. Back row, Kayla Stowell, Hannah Mathews, Shaelynn Samora, Quinn Hynes-Marquette, Makayla Blake, Ashley Beseke, Terry Eischens, ERica Redmann, Tuikky Jalli, Fatima Bustamante, Chiaki Imada and Julie Ulrich. (CJ Siewert/Le Sueur News-Herald)

athlete for the Giants during her career participating in everything from 100- to 800-meter, as well as jumps and throws.

SEASON OUTLOOK The Giants have good numbers this year with about 80 athletes in grades 7-12. The majority of the kids in grades 7-9, so it is a young team.

“Our upper class leadership will be key as we will be counting on several of our younger athletes to contribute,” said coach Jeff Christ.

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PAGE 8

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW: Tri-City United baseball team

By JAMES STITT

jstitt@lecenter.com

COACHES: Head Coach: Bruce Davis Assistant Varsity Coach: Adam Hanson B-Coach: Matt Miller C-Coach: Joel Evenson Eighth-grade Coach: Mark Gregor Seventh-grade Coaches: Phil Campbell and Matt Collins Volunteer: Grant Anderson Key Players: Ted Christian-All Conference Pitcher.

Cole Pint-Honorable Mention All Conference.

Trevor Smisek-Pitcher.

Joe Rynda-Infield.

Aaron Dwyer-Outfield.

Joe Kalina-Infield.

Jordan Jetzer-infield.

Keep an eye on: Mick McGuire-Outfield.

Mac Malecha-Outfield/Infield.

Cody Sabin-infield.

Key Loss: The Titans will be without their All-Conference shortstop this season. Pat Lloyd started at shortstop and batted first in the linup for the Titans last year. Pat was injured in a basketball game this winter and will not be able to participate on the field this spring.

“Pat is one of those kids you love to coach, works hard, great attitude, excellent leader,” said Davis.

“We will miss Pat in many ways on and off the field (but) Pat is still part of our team. We will use his knowledge of the game to help the 2014 Titans in other ways in the dugout.”

Season Outlook:

Last spring the TCU Titans baseball team had a record of 129. In the MRC Conference the team had a 8-6 record and finished in the top half of the conference. The Titans, seeded No. 1 in the section playoffs, won its first playoff game and then lost two

games to finish the season. The Titans return some very valuable pitching this spring and with an improvement in its defense the Titans should be in every game they play this spring.

Conference favorite: Norwood, Watertown

Good Luck Giants!

Section favorite: Albert Lea the shortstop position.”

Comments from the coach: “The 2014 Titans will have Reporter James Stitt can be to work hard to score runs,” said reached at 931-8572 or follow Davis. “We feel our pitching and him on Twitter @LCL_j_stitt. defense will keep us in a majority of our games (though) someone will have to step up to take over

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Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

PAGE 9

SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW: Tri-City United golf team COACHES Head coach: Nate Higgins (11 years) KEY PLAYERS Taylor Riebel, senior, three years lettered, Minnesota River Conference Honorable Mention All-Conference, 2013 Section 2AA qualifier.

“Taylor will likely lead our individual scoring efforts this year as he had the best scoring average of all returners this season. He has the focus and commitment that I see many great golfers embody and feel that will help him score even better this season,” said Higgins.

Garrett Klaus, sophomore, one year lettered, 2013 Section 2AA qualifier.

“Garrett lowered his scores very quickly and felt his short game contributed to that mightily,” Higgins said. “With more experience his long game will improve, but his commitment to the ‘short game’ is where his focus and effort needs to continue to be made.”

Carter Stevens, senior, three years lettered.

“Carter takes his golf seriously and is a very coachable golfer. He puts forth a great deal of focus and effort each time he tees it up. He has made progress over the past two years and I really feel this year he puts his total golf game together to shoot the scores he feels he is capable of,” Higgins said.

Jon Reak sophomore, two years lettered.

“Jon is a very intelligent kid and that is a great skill for a golfer, to have the ability to think themselves around the course, to analyze their position, perform what is needed, what can they do. That will serve him well. He is also a strong kid who will see improvements in his game off the tee this year,” said Higgins.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON John Hanek, senior, first year participant. Hanek has played quite a bit of golf and will contribute as a top-four scorer for the Titans this year.

Codie Harkins, senior. Harkins played in a number of varsity matches last year and will compete

for one of the top-six varsity spots this season.

Nate Kotek, senior, first year participant Jayden Stasney, sophomore, second year of golf. Stasney has played golf in earlier school years and has experience to shoot some low scores that may rival a top-6 spot on the varsity team.

2014 SEASON OUTLOOK The Titans finished in sixth place (1,169 strokes) in the conference last season and only two

strokes out of fifth place (1,167 strokes). Higgins said the goal this season will be to place as a team in the top half of the conference.

They were only 11 strokes away from doing that last year and the coach believes that they’re stronger than their 1-6 2013 showing.

“We often used a high score in our fourth-scoring spot and I am really confident that number will be lower and help our team,” he said.

The favorite in our conference will be Jordan and Mayer Lutheran.

Both teams have very good golfers returning and they finished first and second last season. Our section includes New Ulm, Mankato East and Fairmont which will all have solid players returning. Jordan is also in the section and should represent the conference in the post season.

COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “The first few weeks of coaching these student-athletes have proved to be positive and that they are

very coachable and excited about becoming better golfers, said Higgins, the coach. “They’ve committed to working on their short games inside where we have been limited and also to a flexibility workout regimen that will allow them to put more effective swings on the ball. They are looking forward to getting outside, playing some real golf and competing in matches.”

Submitted by Nate Higgins.

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PAGE 10

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW: Tri-City United girls track and field

By JAMES STITT

jstitt@lecenter.com

COACHES Head coach: Brian Fogal, sixth year coaching (three as head coach) Assistant coaches: Craig Nordling first year, Tony Barnack second year, JH Chad Polson and Leah Rode-Mulder KEY PLAYERS Sophmore Briana Berninghaus, sprinter, school record holder in the 100-meter and the 200, nearly made it to state last year. Top point getter last year.

Sophmore Kristi Frederick, sprinter, hurdles, long jump. Kristi was a great all around competitor and was able to fill in at a lot of different events Senior Edith Martinez, school record holder in the high jump, currently injured but hopefully can make it back by the end of the season. (captain) Junior Michaela Wood made it to sections in both the shot and disc last year.

Sophmore Megan Rutt sprinter and important in relays Sophmore Sydney Vargo, vaulter and sprinter Freshman Joslyn Vargo, vaulter and middle distance Freshman Katie Ellingsworth middle distance Senior Sara Fisher distance runner (captain) Junior Katy Rabenberg distance runner and hurdles (captain) Senior Megan Traxler distance runner and captain KEEP YOUR EYE ON Seventh Grader Sarah Novak missed going to state in cross country by 0.4 seconds in a 4000m race. Watch for her to excel in the distance races Freshman Lexy Malecha started high jumping really well at the end of the season. Hopefully she can continue to improve.

MOVED ON Claire McCrady our top long jumper, vaulter, and second best sprinter.

Megan Steffen top hurdler, im-

portant sprinter, middle distance runner.

Samantha Ruger top distance runner.

SEASON OUTLOOK Last year the girls team did really well winning or placing in the top three in every meet. The team placed third in the conference meet but had several all conference selections.

Belle Plaine will be the favorite in the conference again this year.

They have won it eight of the last

nine years. Watertown, TCU, and Jordan will battle it out again for second place.

Section will be Belle Plaine and Waseca as favorites, but TCU girls should again be well represented at the section meet.

COMMENTS FROM THE COACH I think this is our most balanced team I have coached. We have more girls out than we have ever had in our history. Around 70 girls came out for track this

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year! Last year we had 50 and the year before we were at 42. We have talented athletes in every event and should be able to place at least one girl in the top five in every meet. The girls this year have been really working hard and been very positive. We are very young but have a lot of very talented young ladies.

We have several girls that were injured coming into the season, but hopefully they will all recover and be ready to compete later this

season.

BY THE NUMBERS 3- Number of Seniors on a team of 70 11 — of last year’s top 15 point scorers return this year Reporter James Stitt can be reached at 931-8572 or follow him on Twitter @LCL_j_stitt.

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Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

PAGE 11

SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW: Tri-City United boys track and field Coaches: Head coach: Brian Mikel (20 years) five as head coach, 15 as assistant coach Assistants: Tony Barnack, Craig Nordling, Leah Rode-Mulder and Chad Polson Key Athletes: John Christian, sprints and hurdles, Just missed going to state last year in the 110-meter hurdles placing third at sections, Mitchell Dooley, middle distance, one of the hardest workers on the team. Excellent 800m runner.

Marty McGuire, middle distance, took third at sections last year in the 800m.

Max Arroyo, middle distance and high jump, key leg in the 4X800m relay.

Kelly Nordling, sprints, triple

jump, and high jump, has his goals set high this year. One of our most versatile athletes.

Ben Barnack, distance, a very hard worker who has put in his miles in the summer.

Scott McCabe, high jump, looks to improve on a top-four section finish last year.

Jared Dooley, distance.

Micheal McCrady, sprints and long jump.

Thomas Franek, pole vault.

Carter Rynda, hurdles and 400m.

Jamison Beulke, sprints, long jump, triple jump.

Brandon Turgeon, middle distance, the 400.

Hunter Factor, sprints.

Erik Blaschko, shot and discus.

Moved on:

Alex Turgeon (sprinter), Jordan Trnka (shot and disc), Tadd Stasney (400m), Ben Pichotta (distance) and Mic Khonert (distance) Comments from the coach: “I think we have a nice crop

of talented seniors and juniors as well as a few sophomores,” said Mikel. “If we are willing to put in the time and the work, I think we have the talent to finish close to the top of the conference. We will need leadership out of the seniors

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to have success as well.

“Last year we finished fourth in the conference and third in the subsection. I would expect Belle Plaine and Jordan to be up there again at the top of the conference and subsection. I would like to

think we could challenge for a top spot as well. Again, a lot will depend on leadership and work ethic.”

Submitted by Brian Mikel.

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PAGE 12

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW: Tri-City United softball team experienced Tri-City United softball COACHES Varsity – Carol Lilla – (15 years) Assistant Varsity – Lora Angileno B-Squad – Phil Murry 8th Grade – Jessica Weller 7th Grade – Sarah Adams Key Players: Seniors: Alyshia Angileno — Senior pitcher and outfielder.

“She will be our main pitcher,” said Lilla. “When not on the mound, Angileno will play left field. She is a very good outfielder with a great arm. Angileno was one of our top batters with a .400 average and is throwing with more confidence and strength. We will look to Alyshia for leadership on the field.”

Madie Chadderdon – First baseman in 2013 who will see some time there along with the outfield.

“She has a great arm and will strengthen our outfield,” said Lilla.

Molly Ehlers – Starting left fielder last season.

“Has great range in the outfield and sees the ball well off of the bat,” said Lilla. “Molly is working hard to improve her batting.”

Juniors Amber Brokl — Last year’s starting third baseman will also do some pitching this year.

“One of our top hitters with a .435 batting average,” said Lilla.

“Has a good arm and is very good defensively. Was All–Conference honorable mention last year.”

Dani Angileno — Left fielder last year, Angelino moves behind the plate this season.

“Dani did not catch much last year due to knee surgery before the start of the season,” said Lilla.

“She was our leading hitter with a .477 batting average. Dani does a good job of hitting with runners in scoring position and led the team with on base percentage.

She was All-conference last year.”

Sarah Holicky – Starting second baseman moves to shortstop this year.

“She has good range and

knowledge of the game,” said Lilla. “She was one of our top hitters last year with a .447 batting average. Sarah is a player who will do whatever is asked of her.”

Jenna Bednar – Played first base last year. She will see a lot of time there this year also.

“Jenna led the team in slugging percent with a .567 average,” said Lilla. “She can hit for power and look for her to give us a consistent bat.”

KEEP YOUR EYE ON: Heidi Blaschko – Senior designated hitter and outfielder “Great team player and leader,” said Lilla. “Does whatever is asked of her.”

Kayla Trcka – Senior outfielder and backup catcher “We will take advantage of her speed on the base path,” Lilla said.

Megan Skluzacek – Junior, who will see time in the infield “She has good knowledge of the game and should see time at second base,” said Lilla.

Casey Hintz – Junior “Casey has a good bat and should see time in the outfield or

first base,” said Lilla.

Sam Hellerud – Junior pitcher and infielder.

“Should see some time on the mound and will be a utility infielder,” said Lilla. “Sam does whatever is asked of her.”

Autumn Gare – Junior will see time in the outfield and as backup for third base Breanna Rockers – Junior outfielder and pitch-hitter Sophomores Anna Lloyd — infielder Erin Budin — catcher MOVED ON: Four graduat-

ing seniors Chelsey Walerius, starter for the last three years will miss her strong defense and ability to get on base Coley Selly started behind the plate for the last two years, great defense, excellent baserunner and a strong hitter Hannah Montreuil- Was an excellent pitcher shared the job with Alyshia and will be hard to replace.

Kristen Jindra – played third base and a great hitter.

OUTLOOK:

Last season, Tri-City United (7-8, 7-7 conference) finished in fourth place in the seven-team Minnesota River Conference and was knocked out of the Section playoff after a 5-2 opening round loss to St. Peter. Due to the weather, the Titans did not play any non-conference games and all of their conference games were double headers.

This year the Titans return eight letter winners which include four seniors, and four juniors. The seniors are Alyshia Angileno, Heidi Blaschko, Madie Chadderdon,

and Molly Ehlers. The returning junior letter winners are Amber Brokl, Sarah Holicky, Jenna Bednar and Dani Angileno. The Titans pitching and catching will be strong with experience at both positions. They have the small ball hitters and power hitters but need to cut down on the number of strikeouts they have. TCU has a lot of talent and hard workers but because of the weather, they might not get out much before they play games so it might take longer to fill the positions and determine player’s roles.

FROM THE COACH: “Defensively, we should be strong and our hitting should improve as the year goes on. We want to dictate things more on the defensive side of the field and then create our offensive,” said Lilla.

C onference favorites – LeSueur-Henderson and Norwood Young America.

“Our numbers are good. Down from last year but still have close to 60 girls out in grades seven to 12,” said the coach. “At this time no one in the conference has a freshman team so we will not have a separate squad. We have seven extra games scheduled where will use our freshman along with some junior high and sophomores to play. These games are schedule on our off nights. We want to get the girls as much experience as possible.

“We have had a great two and a half weeks of practice. The girls are working hard and all are looking forward to getting outside,” said Lilla.

Submitted by Carol Lilla.

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Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

PAGE 13

New look LoyolaCleveland track and field looks to make another strong run

By RICHARD ROHLFING

Correspondent

Head coach: Dale Compton – 17th year coaching Assistant coaches: Mike Dimler, 29th year; TJ Palasotti, 10th year; Kalli Christensen, 1st year KEY ATHLETES Boys: Wyatt Elmer — 12th grade; distance runner; four-year letter winner; two-time state competitor in cross country, All-State 4x800 Jordan Phillips — 12th grade; thrower; three-year letter winner; strong, athletic.

Sean Thomez — 12th grade; hurdles; pole vault; three-year letter winner; top returning hurdler and pole vaulter Girls: Taylor Holicky — 12th grade; thrower; three-year letter winner; top returning shot put and discus thrower Mary Ninneman — 11th grade; middle distance; three-year letter winner; All-State 4x400 Katerina Vetter — 10th grade; sprints; three-year letter winner; AllState 4x400, 4x800 KEEP YOUR EYE ON Spencer Davies, 11th grade, 1st year out for track & field Landon Javens, 8th grade; State competitor in cross country Kyla Haas — 8th grade; State competitor in cross country; All-State 4x800 MOVED ON Bryce Omtvedt — school record holder in 800, All-State Danielle Vetter — school record holder 4x100; 4x200, 4x400, All-State 4x400,4x800 2014 SEASON OUTLOOK Last year the boys team had a 2ndplace finish in the Section True Team meet and a 3rd-place finish in the conference. The girls team finished 2nd in the Valley Conference last year. Both teams look to be competitive again this season. The Martin County West girls were the Conference champions last season and look to be right there again this year. The boys’ teams in the conference are all very competitive,

The 2014 Mankato Loyola-Cleveland boys track and field team (front row, from left): Dustin Manzey, Matt Archer, Ben Torgerson, Adam Cahalan, Carson Seifert, Landon Javens, Brandon Busse, Charlie Lena, Jordan Moore and Tony Meyer. Second row: Harry Orcutt, Taylor Gross, Andy Sharpless, Sean Thomez, Nick Courrier, Andrew Murray, Wyatt Elmer, Frank Weber, Gavin Wenker, Brock Arndt and Jens Wahlgren. Back row: Coach Dale Compton, Matt Naples, Hunter Westman, Chandler Barrie, Payton Remiger, Brady Omtvedt, Coleton Giefer, Aaron Guentzel, Micah Rentschler, Spencer Davies and Alex Guerrero. Missing: Jordan Phillips, Lance Gaspar and Eli Anderson. (Richard Rohlfing/St. Peter Herald) Loyola-Cleveland girls track and field (front, from left): Marlee Buhs, Alyssa Compton, Charlotte Lena, Grace Ellingworth, Meghan Schaub and Emma Goebel. Second row: Elizabeth Ninneman, Mary Ninneman, Anna Brielmaier, Anissa Giefer, Jaiden Moore, Laynie Kubista, Allison Rupp, Eaden Javens and Nora Coughlan. Back row: Coach Dale Compton, Kayle Welch, Elizabeth Piepho, Amy Den Herder, Sophia Brandt, Alex Koberoski and Assistant Coach Kalli Christensen. Missing: Taylor Holicky, Justine Compton, Sarah Wendlandt, Katerina Vetter, Elaine Adams, Kyla Haas, Duyen Nguyen and Gabby Vetter. (Richard Rohlfing/St. Peter Herald)

and it should be another tough meet.

COACH’S COMMENTS “We lost some key seniors from last year’s team, but we are looking forward to seeing what some of our new athletes can bring to the team this year.

There are a number of young athletes who we are going to be using to fill spots this season. We added a few new girls this year and are excited to see where they can help our team.” – Dale Compton, Head Coach

BY THE NUMBERS 17 – The number of boys first- and second-place finishers in this season’s first meet.

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PAGE 14

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

Strong battery returns for Cleveland Clipper softball team

By RICHARD ROHLFING

Correspondent

Head coach: Dan Fredrickson – 2nd year coaching KEY PLAYERS Cassidy Kopet — 11th grade, pitcher and infield, two-year letter winner, 2013 All Valley Conference, Best Offensive Player award. 53 strikeouts and .275 ERA last season.

“Cassidy is a very complete hitter,” said Fredrickson. “She swings that bat hard and is a tough out.

Cassidy also led us in every pitching category last season. She fields her position extremely well. She is a great competitor and an excellent role model for our younger players.

She is also defensively very versatile.”

Megan Gjemse — 12th grade, 1st base, catcher, two-year letter winner.

“She is a very valuable player,” Frederickson said. “Megan almost always has a good at bat and led us with a .500 batting average last season. She will handle some catching duties and start again at 1st base this season. Megan is truly a team leader. She sets a very good example every day.”

Erika Wobbrock — 12th grade, outfield, two-year letter winner.

“Erika is a competitor,” said her head coach. “She plays with fire. She had some very big offensive games last season, recording some very big hits for us. Erika will be starting in the outfield for her third-straight year. When her game is on there are not many better.”

Anna Ely — 11th grade, pitcher and 3rd base, two-year letter winner.

“Anna is a true leader and a very gifted athlete who could play anywhere a coach wanted,” Frederickson said. “She will be atop our order with Megan Hobson to form a very good one-two punch. She is ready to have a very big offensive season this year. Defensively she will replace Anna Dickie at 3rd base this season. Anna is a confident player I know will help lead us to a winning season.”

Megan Hobson — 11th grade, outfield and 2nd base, two-year letter winner.

“Megan is fast, fast, fast,” said the head coach. “She is a lead-off

The 2014 Cleveland softball team (front left): Shania Weber, Desi Becker, Stephanie Holicky, Kaleigh Clark-McCabe and Olivia Kester. Second row: Amanda Smith, Lily Hollerich, Haley Pollard, Megan Hobson, Cassidy Kopet, Anna Ely and Holly Gibbs, Back row: PenniJo Brenke, Rachel Zimprich, Taylor Holicky, Head Coach Dan Fredrickson, Megan Gjemse, Breanna Beck and Cheyenne Kunkel. Missing: Erika Wobbrock. (Richard Rohlfing/St. Peter Herald)

hitter who will set table for our offense again this year. She led us in steals last season, and she is a very flexible fielder playing very well in the outfield or infield.”

Desi Becker — 12th grade, pitcher and infield, first year eligible after transfer.

“Desi is a power pitcher. She can really attack hitters,” Frederickson said. “She is a very polished softball player poised for a very big season.

She is an excellent hitter with a beautiful swing. She can really drive the ball.”

KEEP YOUR EYE ON Lily Hollerich — 8th grade, shortstop, 2nd base.

“Lily is a very good young hitter who will really help us this season,” Frederickson said. “She has a lot of pop and does an excellent job of finishing her swing. When she hits in the cage the ball really jumps off her bat. She has a strong arm.”

Holly Gibbs — 10th grade, catcher.

“Holly will be our starting catcher this year,” Fredrickson said.

“She has a good arm and very good skills behind the plate. She has really worked on her swing. She has a smooth swing and a good approach

to her at bats. Catching is where we need her most, and I know she will flourish in that role for us.”

Rachel Zimprich — 12th grade, outfield.

“Rachel is a very good outfielder with very good skills,” Frederickson said. “She is also a hitter that takes some very good swings. She is a hitter that makes lots of contact. We are very excited Rachel is back out for softball this season. She will really help.”

Taylor Holicky — 12th grade, infield. This is her first time out for softball since 7th grade.

“Taylor has very good footwork in the infield,” Frederickson said.

“She competes. She has a toughness and swag to her that I hope filters to our team. I’m excited to have Taylor in our program this season.”

MOVED ON Kylie Krause (Catcher), Anna Dickie (3B), Samantha Ely (OF), Courtney Utzka (OF), Molly Zimmerman (SS) 2014 SEASON OUTLOOK Last year’s 9-7 team took fifth in the conference, and Frederickson thinks the Clippers have the tools to improve on that record.

Offense – “Although we lost a trio very legitimate hitters in Dickie, Krause and Zimmerman (the heart of our order), I believe this year’s team can be every bit as good offensively as last year, maybe even better. I think our lineup is deeper.

We have very good contact hitters and a lineup possessing speed and power.”

Pitching – “We also have a deep pitching staff with three quality pitchers. Our girls really attack the strike zone and bring a toughness to the circle. Kopet won eight games last season. Becker pitched on JV

last season and is a lefty who can bring it. Ely rounds out our varsity staff as a pitcher who throws tons of strikes. Pitching is without a doubt an asset that can lead us to a very memorable season.”

Defense – “Our defense needs to replace three key players at three valuable positions. Dickie, Krause and Zimmerman really helped anchor a team that didn’t give away many outs to opponents last season.

If we can gel early defensively as a team we will be well on our way to another winning season. Ely has proved to be a very reliable fielder and she should do a great job at 3rd base. Gibbs and Gjemse will handle the catching duties. We have some very good infielders to try to fill big shoes at shortstop.”

COACH’S COMMENTS “Expectations are very high. We are an experienced and aggressive group that will really compete this year, so I’m excited. We have a deep balanced team. I think we can be a team that is very dangerous in the playoffs. We have some hurdles to get through early in the season, but I expect us to get out to a quick start and really start challenging some of the better teams in the area. I’m proud to be the Clipper coach. It is a wonderful community.” – Dan Fredrickson, head coach

BY THE NUMBERS 8.3 – Runs per game last season. It was the second highest in the conference and the third best in the 20-team section.

3 – A consecutive string of home runs hit last year by Wobbrock, Kopet and Gjemse. It exemplifies the potential of the Clippers’ offensive clout this season.

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Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

PAGE 15

Young Cleveland baseball team hopes to become a big hit

By RICHARD ROHLFING

Correspondent

Cleveland Baseball COACHES Head coach: J.J. Helget – Entering 3rd year as head coach; 3 years as JH coach at Cleveland/ Le Center Assistant coaches: Brian Heller – 3rd year as assistant KEY PLAYERS Returning letter winners: Austin Plonsky, 8th grade, one year lettered. Plonsky stepped in last year as a 7th grader to start the last nine games at second base. Despite his youth, he was fundamentally sound defensively. Through those nine games he posted a .947 fielding percentage.

Carter Kopet, 8th grade, one year lettered. Kopet started four games last season due to some injuries and batted .286. He also logged a few innings on the mound. He has competed at the varsity level for both football and basketball, and that should help with his confidence.

“We expect Carter to do some good things for us on the mound and at the plate,” Helget said.

Brandon Seitz, 9th-grade, two years lettered. Seitz has filled in in the field both as a 7th-grader and an 8th-grader. He will be competing for a starting position at either short stop or second base. He will also be in the mix for some innings on the mound.

“Brandon has a good eye at the plate and a great arm,” Helget said.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON Nick Douglas, 9th-grade.

Douglas will be in competition for some time both on the mound

Cleveland baseball: The 2014 Cleveland baseball team (front row, from left): Gregory Berry, Travis Robb, Austin Plonsky and Cody Conroy. Second row: Josh Baker, Sam Kaderlik, Brandon Seitz, Alec Rogers, Ryan Schafer, Travis Burt, Graham Skinner and Mitchell McCabe. Back row: Assistant coach Brian Heller, Dustin Boe, Evan Koppelman, Nick Douglas, Carter Kopet, Jacob Weller, Austin Hutchens and Head Coach J.J. Helget. (Richard Rohlfing/St. Peter Herald)

and at third base. He played some JV last year with some success.

Ryan Schaefer, 11th-grade.

Schafer will start the season penciled in as the Clippers’ DH. “Ryan has shown since junior that he can put the bat on the ball,” Helget said. “We will ask him to continue to do that this year.”

Alec Rogers, 10th-grade. Rogers will play some outfield and be

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competing to be one of Cleveland’s top three pitchers.

“Alec has a great work ethic that should carry over to a solid season for us,” Helget said.

Dustin Boe, 11th-grade. Boe will be in a competition for playing time in the outfield. He has been in the program since 7thgrade and worked hard every year.

MOVED ON Joe Queen, Cody Hollerich,

Tyler Seitz, Derek Ely, Matt Vlasak, Kyle Ziebarth, Mitch Dummer, Nick Kaveney and Josh Plonsky. Spencer Davies went out for track and Andrew Hartman and Mason Stencel are not competing.

2014 SEASON OUTLOOK Last year’s overall record was 4-7 and conference record was 2-4 for 6th place. This year’s extremely young team will be laying the groundwork for the future. Hel-

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get expects Sleepy Eye St. Mary’s, Lake Crystal-Wellcome Memorial and BOLD to be favorites in the section.

COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “Although we lost a great group of seniors and had some kids choose to not come out, I

am excited for this year. We have some great talent in our younger grades and these individuals get the opportunity to show off and build these skills against quality competition all year long. It is going to be exciting to see how much these kids grow throughout the year.” – JJ Helget, Head Coach

PAGE 16

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

Young St. Peter girls golf team drives for depth

By PAT BECK

pbeck@stpeterherald.com

St. Peter girls golf COACHES Head Girls Golf Coach: Pat Klubben (fifth season) Ju n i or Hi g h / As si st ant Coach: Sean Keating (first season) KEY PLAYERS Returning Letter winners: “Sophomore Zoey Bartlett finished strong last year by qualifying for the section tournament where she scored a 99,” Klubben said. “Zoey also earned all-conference honors and placed sixth at the SCC meet.

She hopes to challenge for the No. 1 spot on the team.

“Freshman Anna Amos also qualified for section last year and earned all-conference honors as well. Anna puts in a lot of time in the off season and is poised to play in the No. 1 spot this year. Anna has the ability to shoot in the 80s, which could certainly give her a chance to contend for a state tournament spot.

“Sophomore Maggie Conlon also returns with section tournament experience from last year and is projected to secure the No. 3 spot on the roster this year.

“Junior Sarah Bjorklund will provide depth to the varsity line up as she was a consistent performer last year. Being the only junior and with no seniors, she is expected to provide leadership to the younger girls.

The 2014 St. Peter girls golf team (from left) Miranda Bresnahan, Anna Amos, Zoey Bartlett, Kennady Legg, Maggie Conlon, Sarah Bjorklund and Zoe Haugen. Not pictured: Skyler Hochstein, Ali Sandquist and Amelia Wernsing. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)

“Sophomore Skyler Hochstein will also be expected to add leadership depth to the Varsity lineup. Sky has a great attitude and shows up and has fun every day.”

KEEP YOUR EYE ON Eighth-graders Zoe Haugen and Miranda Bresnahan return with one year of experience under their belt. New to the pro-

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gram this year are ninth-grader Ali Sandquist, eighth-grader Kennady Legg and seventhgrader Amelia Wernsing.

MOVED ON “Karly Maier was an AllConference/Section qualifier last year who provided good senior leadership for us,” Klubben said.

SEASON OUTLOOK

Last year, the Saints finished 3-2 and tied for third in the South Central Conference. In dual meets, St. Peter went 5-3.

St. Peter tied for third place in the subsection and qualified four individuals for the section.

“We have five returning letter winners from last year,” Klubben said. “That is a good start, but once again our depth

tations to contend for the last SCC championship as we know it since we will be forming a new conference next year.

“We look to build on our performance from last year as we improved in the conference.

Fairmont’s dominance of the conference looks to be over as they look to rebuild almost their entire team. Which means the conference is up for grabs.

“BEA, Waseca and STP all lost some talent to graduation, while New Ulm will welcome back their entire young but more experienced team than last year. I look for St. James to improve as well, as their program is headed in the right direction.”

FROM THE COACH “Our biggest goal of the season is to get better as the year goes on and be playing our best golf at the end of the season.

Our girls are young and will make mistakes early, so if we can learn from those mistakes and make corrections, we could have a very exciting year. — Pat Klubben, head coach

BY THE NUMBERS 400 — “If we can shoot 400 or less as a team, good things will happen. This team has the ability to do that,” Klubben said.

will be one of our biggest weaknesses. The other five girls will hopefully push each other and compete for varsity spots as Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck well. at 931-8566, or follow him on “We are very young to say Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat the least. We have no seniors and only one junior and could have seventh- or eighth-graders filling varsity spots. With that being said, we still have expec-

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Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

PAGE 17

St. Peter boys golf team reloads after loss of 4 starters

By PAT BECK

pbeck@stpeterherald.com

St. Peter boys golf COACHES Head coach: Neil Doose, seventh year Assistant coaches: Sean Keating, first year; Curt Rice, second year KEY PLAYERS Senior Cole Miller, fourth year of varsity. Last year was all conference, 3rd in Subsection 2AA, and 13th in Section 2AA meet.

Last year’s scoring average 42 per 9 holes.

Junior Killian Bixby, second year of varsity, 27th in section meet. Last year’s 9 hole average 45.

Senior Riley Wenner, 2nd year varsity. Average last year 46 per 9 holes.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON Seniors Adam Yeske, Arick Mayo and Brennan Kelly Juniors Dylan Salisbury, Ben Emley, Andrew Olson and Jacob Rinehart Sophomores Garrett Kopka, Luke Pehrson and Andrew Baker Freshmen Eric Carlson, Adam McCabe and Reid Reicks Eighth-graders Kendall Lusty, Ethan Klaseus, Blake Makela and Henry Olson Seventh-graders Carter Doose, and Kevin Pollock MOVED ON Eight seniors graduated last year: Chris Amsden, Brad Rice, Peter Kruize, Erik Thorkelson, Arik Lokensgard, Michael Wenner, Matt Johnson, Bennett

The 2014 St. Peter boys golf team (front, from left) Luke Pehrson, Matt Seitzer, Killian Bixby, Henry Olson, Ethan Klaseus, Carter Doose; (middle row); Garrett Kopka, Andrew Baker, Adam McCabe, Reid Reicks, Blake Makela, Kendall Lusty, Kevin Pollock; (back row) Brennan Kelly, Dylan Salisbury, Arick Mayo, Andrew Olson, Ben Emley, Cole Miller, Riley Wenner, Jacob Rinehart, Adam Yeske. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)

Baker SEASON OUTLOOK Last year’s record 34-18, fourth in South Central Conference, second in South Subsection 2AA, third in Section 2AA meet.

Conference favorites: New Ulm and Fairmont are the heavy favorites.

Section favorites: Mankato East

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“I hope to compete for the top 2 spots in the conference, but we will need some new varsity members to step up their games and practice with great focus and intent,” Doose said. “I also believe we can compete and finish in the top 2 in our subsection again this year. We will need our returning varsity golfers to continue to improve and will need a few younger

kids to fill in.

COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We have had a very good golf program on the boys side for quite a few years and have had golfers make it to state two of the last four years. I believe we have a few individuals that can make it to that level again this year, but we will have to work on our consis-

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will definitely make a difference and will improve the games of all kids on the team. I look forward to getting outside and playing, but we will be working on our games indoors for a few weeks. — Neil Doose, head coach Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck at 931-8566, or follow him on Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat

PAGE 18

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

St. Peter girls track and field strong in middle, long distance

By PAT BECK

pbeck@stpeterherald.com

St. Peter girls track and field COACHES Head Coach: Jeff Portugue, 16 years head coach Assistant coaches: Marc Bachman, George Schoenborn, Kris Sandborg, Eric Boe, Cori Wiebusch KEY PLAYERS “Always a tough question,” Portugue said. “I believe track is a team sport, and all the kids are important.”

Two-time state qualifier, junior Marta Springer returns after placing eighth in the 400-meter run in 1:00.21 last season and fifth in the 4x400 relay two years ago with Logan Retzlaff, Alyssa Kerkhoff and Danielle Larson in 4:05.54.

St. Peter has 13 returning letter winners: seniors Chloe Bachman, Amy Lager and Sara Osborne; juniors Emily Lind, Halla Dontje Lindell and Marta Springer; sophomores Maggie Anderson, Alyssa Lokensgard and Ella Wiebusch; freshmen Desi Kruger and Katie Schilling; and eighth-graders Greta Anderson Sienna Wiebusch.

“There is a good group of athletes returning, and I like our chances in many of the distanceand middle-distance races,” Portugue said.

“We should be solid in most or the field events, but we are going to have to work on putting together our relay teams. It may take some time to get the right combinations mixing our veterans with our inexperienced kids.”

MOVED ON

Michelle Lund, D.D.S. Zachary Lechner, D.D.S.

The 2014 St. Peter girls track and field team (front, from left) Greta Anderson, Xe’Anna Willaert, Jacey Welp, Ingrid Harbo, Payton Portugue, Teagan Weiss, Sarah Borgmeier, Hannah Hansen, Tori Kmett, Yume Bollum; (middle row) Ashby Roloff, Eleanor Grinnell, Jade Klitzke, Desmond Krueger, Mallory Blaschko, Chloe Bachman, Suzanne Dietrich, Kendall Wenner, Francesca LoFaro, Jordan Keeley, Signe Tyson-Alger; (top row) Alexia Riley, Ella Wiebusch, Bethany Bresnahan, Sienna Wiebusch, Marta Springer, Ellen Eide, Halla Dontje Lindell, Alyssa Lokensgard, Emily Annexstad, Sara Osborne, Emily Lind and Katie Schilling. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)

Haley Jaeger, Kathy Brinkman, Magdalena Engelmann and Selivia Reutes.

“We are going to try some girls in a few new events to fill in the voids left from our graduates from last season,” Portugue said.

SEASON OUTLOOK “We will be looking to our younger girls to fill in our lineup some time during the season,” Portugue said. “We have a very strong middle school group returning and a few of those girls have an opportunity to make the varsity team.”

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St. Peter finished third in the South Central Conference.

Fairmont won last season. The Saints earned subsection runnerup. Belle Plaine was subsection champs. St. Peter took third in the Section 2A meet; Belle Plaine was first and Blue Earth Area second.

“I think Fairmont is the favorite in the conference,” Portugue said. “They should also be one of the favorites in the section along with BEA and Belle Plaine.”

COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “I’m hoping by the end of the

season we will be a better team. It at 931-8566, or follow him on Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat is going to take some hard work, but I think if we can get a few of our newcomers and underclassmen to improve we might have a good team ready for the SCC and section meets. We might struggle Your bank, your HomeTown. early as we work on what is our best lineup, but we should surprise a few team by the end of the season.” — Jeff Portugue, head coach.

BY THE NUMBERS 3 – seniors

Good luck, athletes!

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Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

PAGE 19

St. Peter boys track and field hopes to make a run for top 3 in conference, section

By PAT BECK

pbeck@stpeterherald.com

COACHES Head coach: Keith Hanson, 16 years head coach Assistant coaches: Erick Boe, Marc Bachman, George Schoenborn KEY PLAYERS Keegan McCabe, senior, state ninth-place finisher last year in 110-meter high hurdles (16.55 seconds); also qualified for state in 300 intermediate hurdles, finishing 13th in 43.86.

St. Peter has eight returning letter winners: senior Keegan McCabe, juniors Jacob Gurrola, Jackson Keeley and Khalid Omar; sophomore Brady Hanson; sophomores Cody Vacek, John Walker and John Warren.

KEEP YOUR EYE ON Cody Vacek, sophomore distance runner, state qualifier in cross country this past fall, finishing 122nd in 18:02.7 over 5,000 meters Valtteri Korkiakoski, senior, Finnish foreign exchange student, will run sprint events (100, 200,

again as well as Blue Earth Area, but we could battle for top two or three spots at the end. The same goes for our subsection, we will be competitive but team depth will be a big key at those meets.”

COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “Hoping that we have a better Spring than last season as we lost a number of meets due to the snow and our practice time was inside way too long! Hopefully we can get outside and prepare the team for great competition. — Keith Hanson, head coach

BY THE NUMBERS 4 — Keegan McCabe is sitting No. 4 all time in the 110-meter high hurdles at 15.38 seconds. No. 1 is 14.7 by Tim Kowal in 1978.

2 — McCabe is No. 2 all time in the 300 intermediate Hurdles with a time of 40.87. The record is held The 2014 St. Peter boys track and field team (front row, from left): Kobe Moss, John Warren, Eric Munoz, Jacob Gurrola, Nathan

by Tim Kowal at 40.5 set in 1978.

Harlow, Jarod Schave, Trevor Gurrola, Kaden Burg; (middle row) Keegan McCabe, Valterri Korkiakoski, Jackson Keeley, Antoine 4 — seniors Williams, Sangja Hasan, Khalid Omar, Alex Chalupnik; (top row) Krishna O’Brien, Brady Hanson, Cody Vacek, Will Bennett, Sam 5 — juniors Bennett, Gage Hinderscheid, Peter Stelter and John Walker. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald) 6 — sophomores 4 — freshmen 4x200) and possibly some jumps. Rowe (moved to Mankato East) ence, fourth in the subsection and 10th-graders to step in and help 7 — eighth-graders MOVED ON 2014 SEASON OUTLOOK third in the section. fill out the events,” Hanson said.

4 — seventh-graders Jon Farvre, Sean O’Connell, Last season, St. Peter finished “We will be a young team “Conference outlook: Fairmont Matt Sack, Will Springer, Marcell third in the South Central Confer- again looking to the 9th- and will put together a decent squad Home of the

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PAGE 20

VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW

Wednesday, April 2-Thursday, April 3, 2014

GOOD LUCK

The 2014 St. Peter boys tennis team (front row, from left): Bradyn Klubben, Abdi Omar, Drew Elofson, Hunter Braun, Andrew Artmann, Casey Osborne, Bennet Madden, Mikinley Prafke; (middle row): Bailey More, Zeke Kyoore, Aaron Leeb, Joey More, Cody Kurth, Zeke Haugen, Avery Bachman, Kaelan Weiss, Will Miller, Ken Ringler; (back row): Joe Siebels, Matthew Huber, John Henry Lee, Ben Gault, Alex Willson, Tanner Peterson, Dylan Evenson and Chandra O’Brien.

Not pictured: Matt Pettis, Rafat Solaiman, James Kelley. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)

St. Peter Boys Baseball

St. Peter boys tennis hopes to compete again for conference, section titles

By PAT BECK

pbeck@stpeterherald.com

St. Peter boys tennis COACHES Aaron Rothenberger (2nd year head coach, 6 years as assistant varsity) Ty Benner (1st year assistant coach) KEY PLAYERS Senior captains Alex Willson, Ben Gault, Matthew Huber KEEP AN EYE ON Sophomores Zeke Haugen, Avery Bachman, Joey More MOVED ON Two-time state qualifier Nathan Huber (record for most wins in school history); letter winners Nels Kallaus and Noah Adamson SEASON OUTLOOK St. Peter won the South Central Conference with a 5-0 record. The Saints finished 14-7 overall and lost in the Section 2A finals to Mound-Westonka.

“We hope that the sophomore and middle school varsity players will step up this year

and give the team wins at the bottom of the lineup,” Rothenberger said.

“For the first time in five years we don’t have a dominant No. 1 singles player, so we will have to be great in all three doubles positions and also consistent victories at 3 and 4 singles.

“We will have to improve quite a bit to defend SCC conference title (Won it last six years to tie for school record with volleyball) and also to compete against Mound-We-

stonka and Holy Family to win Section 2A.”

BY THE NUMBERS 3 — senior starters 5 — sophomore starters 2 — eighth-grade starters 6 — straight conference titles 6 — straight section finals (winning 2) Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck at 931-8566, or follow him on Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat

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