Spring Sports Preview 2017

SPORTS BLOOMING PRAIRIE | MEDFORD | NRHEG | OWATONNA

`17

SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

COVERING:

GOLF BASEBALL TRACK & FIELD BOYS OYS TENNIS O LACROSSE SOFTBALL

PAGE 2

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 20, 2017

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

2017 could be breakthrough season for Huskies

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

The new season comes with elevated expectations for the Owatonna baseball team.

Last spring, the Huskies finished one game shy of first place in the final Big Nine Conference standings, won three postseason contests and ended as Section 1-AAAA runner ups for the second straight season.

If Owatonna is going to break through and qualify for its first state tournament since 2008, this spring could very well be it.

“Biggest strength is that they enjoy the game of baseball,” Owatonna coach Tate Cummins said.

“They strive to play it at a high level. Not all teams are built this way – we are fortunate to have players out that want to spend time at the ballpark.”

Anchoring this year’s team is a core of upperclassmen that has enjoyed a great deal of success rising up through the ranks. The current juniors and seniors made up the 2015 VFW team that qualified for the state tournament in New Ulm while the juniors alone finished undefeated in league play last summer for 3723.

On the infield, Noah Budach leads the unit at shortstop and will settle into the top of the batting order along with dynamic senior Kodey Kiel. The talented

Kodey Kiel pair are joined on the left side by Brady Schuster and power-hitting Abe Havelka at third.

At second, Brock Hanson and varsity newcomer, Dawson Leer, will fight for playing time.

When he’s not playing on the infield and pitching, Kiel — who made the OPP all-area team last season after batting .271 with five doubles — could see innings behind the plate.

Tucker Alstead will be given a chance to win the catching position outright. In his two summers with the VFW, the junior displayed a clutch left-handed bat and steady glove. Against Red Wing in the Huskies’ season-opener on April 6, Alstead ripped an RBI single to right

where “eight arms” will see action according to Cummins. Opening-day starter Jacob Gauthier allows his defense to stay active and keeps the coaching staff happy by throwing strikes. He is also a strong natural leader.

Kiel and Schuster will likely see most of their innings as starters while Hanson, Havelka, Mensink and Nolan Malo will be called upon for spot-starts and bullpen duty along with lefty Matt Bothun.

Despite having a large quantity of arms at his disposal, it remains to be seen if any one of them can consistently carry a team and buzz through a lineup field to bring acorss the game- when the bats aren’t cooking. The deciding run. He was also one of three OHS players to attend the Minnesota preseason all-state showcase along with Budach and Zach Mensink.

In the outfield, Ben Staska and Mensink will occupy the corners while Spencer Glynn will take over in centerfield for Brett Solie, who decided to play lacrosse this spring. Staska and Mensink will slide into the meat of the batting order while Glynn will use his speed to provide balance at the 7, 8 or 9 spot. Parker Westphal could also see some serious playing time at one of the corner spots.

The depth at the position spots carries over to the pitching staff

2017 Spring Sports Preview A special project of the Owatonna People’s Press 135 West Pearl Street, Owatonna, MN 55060 Publisher: Tom Murray Media Specialists: Per Kvalsten, Advertising Director: Ginny Bergerson Becky Melchert, Erin Rossow, Kyle Shaw, Managing Editor: Jeffrey Jackson Autumn VanRavenhorst Sports Editor: Jon Weisbrod Advertising Design: Nikkie Gilmore, Reporter: Daniel Ring Jenine Kubista, Kelly Kubista Spring Sports Preview 2017 is distributed to readers and subscribers of the Owatonna People’s Press at no additional charge. All advertising contained herein is the responsibility of the advertiser. All rights reserved. ©2017

REMAINING SCHEDULE April 20: vs. Faribault, 5 p.m.

21: at New Prague, 7 p.m.

24: vs. Minnetonka, 5 p.m.

25: at Mankato East, 6:30 p.m.

27: vs. Rochester Mayo, 5 p.m.

May 2: at Rochester Century, 5 p.m.

4: vs. Austin, 5 p.m.

5: at Rochester John Marshall, 5 p.m.

8: at Eden Prairie, 5 p.m.

9: vs. Albert Lea, 5 p.m.

11: at Mankato West, 7:30 p.m.

16: at Faribault, 6 p.m.

18: vs. Northfield (DH), 4 p.m.

22: vs. New Ulm, 5 p.m.

Huskies faced the same issue last season and Clay Leidall emerged essentially out of nowhere and earned first-team all-conference honors with a minuscule 1.06 ERA with a 7-2 record. Against

the Wingers, Kiel displayed improved velocity and pin-pint accuracy, striking out seven batter in 2 2/3 innings of relief.

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Thursday, April 20, 2017

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

PAGE 3

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

OHS looks to 11 returning letter-winners to replace departed top-end talent

By JON WEISBROD

REMAINING SCHEDULE

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

The first order of business for the Owatonna softball team will be finding capable replacements for perhaps its two most important players from a season ago.

Reigning Owatonna People’s Press Player of the Year, Millie Wanous, graduated last spring while first-team all-conference performer, Riley Sheehy, moved to Pennsylvania about eight months ago.

Wanous was one of the league’s most dangerous weapons, batting well over .400 with six home runs and 25 RBIs. Sheehy was the quintessential table-setter at the top of the lineup and reached base 48.8 percent of the time she stepped to the plate.

Also departed is all-area player Kayla Johnson (12 RBIs in 2016) It’s no doubt going to be a major challenge for fourth-year head coach Brian Pilcher to find a new catcher and two speedy outfielders, but the numbers are on his side.

Overall, the Huskies retain 11 letter-winners from last year, several of which have more than one season of varsity experience.

Leading the charge is senior shortstop Elli Rohman, who possesses gap to gap power and well above average speed on the

April 20: at Faribault, 5 p.m.

21: vs. Rochester JM, 5 p.m.

25: vs. Mankato East, 4 p.m. (DH) 27: at Rochester Mayo, 5 p.m.

29: at Shakopee tournament

Tiana Blazek base paths.

“Ellie provides a lot of different weapons when she enters the batter box,” Pilcher said. “She will be a huge bat in the lineup this

season coming off a good year at and Jenna Von Ruden (utility). the plate.”

Filling the ever-import void Rohman will be joined on behind the plate left by Wanous the infield Braelyn Johnson (first will be McKenzie Karsten. base), Jamie Davison (third base) “She has a lot of power at the

We will keep you in the game

plate and will provide a lot of offensive production for this year’s team,” Pilcher said of Karsten.

Juniors Rilee Schmidt (left field) and Samantha Hager (center field) will provide a lot of speed in the outfield and slide into the top of the order. In the Huskies’ season-opening win against Red Wing, Hager led off and reached base four times.

Retaining her spot inside the circle for the third straight season is all-conference caliber pitcher Tianna Blazek. The junior won’t blow anyone away with her fastball; instead relies on accuracy and change of speed to fool hitters. Blazek is also a great defender for her position.

Alexa Sommers chewed up lots of innings last season and

May 2: vs. Rochester Century, 5 p.m.

4: at Austin, 5 p.m.

9: at Albert Lea, 5 p.m.

16: vs. Faribault, 5 p.m.

18: at Northfield (DH), 4 p.m.

will once again be relied upon to serve as Blazek’s top backup at pitcher.

Erin Peterson (LF), Torey Buck (DH, C) and Erin Steffenson (2B) will provide depth at a variety of positions.

Winona returns essentially its entire roster from last year’s team that lost in the Class AAA championship game and will be a preseason conference favorite.

The Winhawks, though, suffered a 6-1 loss to Faribault in their season-opener on April 6.

Farmington, Lakeville South and Lakeville North are the teams to beat in Section 1-AAAA. Reach sports editor Jon Weisbrod at 444-2375, or follow him on Twitter.com @OPPJonW

**** Head coach: Brian Pilcher Last season: 11-11 overall, 7-5 Big Nine

www.intouchpt.com 123 West Broadway Owatonna, MN 507-451-7888

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OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 20, 2017

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TRACK & FIELD

Owatonna loses top-flight hurdles, remains Big Nine contender

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

The Owatonna boys track and field team lost some elite talent to graduation, but quite possibly returns more letter-winners than any other team in the Big Nine Conference.

In all, 32 athletes come back from last season’s team that finished in first place at the the Big Nine Conference meet.

“We have a well-rounded team,” 20th-year head coach Kevin Stelter said. “Our goal is always to compete for Big Nine and Section True Team titles, and by doing this, it will help individuals achieve their own per-

sonal goals.”

The top overall performer from last season, Jacob Johnson, has moved on and is a freshman at Division I South Alabama.

During his final two years, Johnson established himself as one of the best hurdlers in the state, finishing second in the 110 meter event at the state competition in 2016 with a personal-best 14.28.

He was also a key member of the state-qualifying 4x400 meter relay squad that also lost Nick Raichle and Ryan Guenther to graduation.

Despite the departures, the Huskies boast great depth and athleticism at just about every event. Football players Alex

Raichle and Jaden Dowhaniuk will run the 200 and 400-meter races while Bryce Goodwin and Brandon Schmidt will help fill the shoes left by Johnson in the hurdles and participate in sprints.

Cross county state-qualifier Braydon Kubat will play a major role on the team and anchor the distance events.

Jadyn Gunderson will contribute in the high jump along with Dalton Kubista and Scott Kingland. Kubista already has one first place ribbon under his belt this season after winning the Roy Griak Indoor competition with a 40-10.25 in the triple jump.

See BOYS Track on 19C

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PAGE 5

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Owatonna retains record-setting relay squads, 19 total letterwinners

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

With strong numbers, versatile athletes and a wealth of experience, the Owatonna girls track and field team will be a major threat in the Big Nine Conference in 2017.

“We have a number of athletes that have been successful in other activities,” Owatonna coach Ann Christensen said.

“We are a large team with a good mix of talents, great attitudes and work ethic.”

In all, the Huskies retain 19 letter-winners from last season,

bring back proven athletes at just about every event and own a legitimate shot at capturing a state championship in the 4x200 meter relay.

Though the foursome lost a pivotal sprinter in Steph Kretlow, the Huskies return Syd Schultz, Margo Achterkirch and Karissa Gregory from last year’s 4x2 squad that won the section championship and finished third in Class AA with a 1:42.21.

Kretlow, Schultz, Achterkirch and Gregory also qualified for the state finals in the 4x100 (8th) and set the section record in the event with a 48.78.

Individually, Schultz clocked the second-fastest time in the 100 meter dash at the section meet and participated in the state prelims and registered 12.54.

Syd Kretlow is the final remaining state-qualifier as the junior broke the OHS record in the 800 meter run at sections and qualified for state with a swift 2:14.84. She finished 10th at the state competition.

Mariah Dant (distance), Caitlin Anderson (long sprints/ high jump), Toria Koch (hurdles), Lexi Langeland (throws) and Callie McCauley (hurdles/

Toria Koch

triple jump/long jump) will anchor the senior class and fill a EMAINING CHEDULE variety of spots along with juApril 25: at Winona May 25: at Big Nine niors Ali Golberg (hurdles/long triangular, 4:30 p.m.

Conference meet sprints) and Nyakhor Godoar May 2: at Albert Lea (Mankato West), (long sprints). triangular, 4:30 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

Sophomores Heidi Lundberg May 16: at Red Wing (pole vault/hurdles), Maggie triangular, 4:30 p.m.

Marks (long sprints/distance) and Emily Rahrick (long sprints) each earned letters last season son-opening Owatonna relays Reach sports editor Jon Weisand will look to take a step for- on April 6, Anderson posted a brod at 444-2375, or follow him ward in 2017.

14-08 in the long jump. on Twitter.com @OPPJonW Sara Anderson (long sprints/ long jump), Kaia Elstad (long **** sprints) and Josie Sullivan (hurHead coach: Ann Christensen (23rd season) dles/sprints) are three freshmen Last season: 4th in Big Nine to keep an eye on. At the sea-

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OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 20, 2017

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL BOYS LACROSSE

Huskies look to take another step forward in 2017

By JON WEISBROD

REMAINING SCHEDULE

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

The last two seasons have been building to this.

After a rough campaign in 2015 in which the Owatonna boys lacrosse team won just one game, the youthful Huskies displayed marked improvement last spring and finished above .500 with an 8-6 overall record.

With all but two letter-winners back for 2017, the expectations for the Huskies have risen to the point that a conference championship is a distinct possibility. Head coach Scott Seykora also hopes to take a step forward in the postseason.

“Our goal is to improve on last season’s record and [win] a Big Nine title,” Seykora said. “We haven’t won a section game since 2009, so we want to advance in the playoffs as well.”

From top to bottom, Owatonna preserves a flock of talent from 2016, including one of the state’s top goalies in Ryan Johnson. As a sophomore, Johnson accumulated 145 saves and finished third in the MSHSL in save-percentage at 71.4 percent.

Positioned directly in front of Johnson will be returning defensemen Jacob Dub (all-conference

5: vs. Rochester Mayo, 6:30 p.m.

9: vs. Eagan, 7 p.m.

12: vs. Northfield, 6:30 p.m.

16: at Mankato, 6 p.m.

19: at Rochester Century, 6:30 p.m.

25: vs. Rochester John Marshall, 7:30 p.m.

April 21: at Northfield, 6 p.m.

22: at Rochester Mayo, 7:30 p.m.

24: vs. Mankato, 6:30 p.m.

27: vs. Rochester Century, 6:30 p.m.

29: vs. Duluth Denfeld, 3 p.m.

May 1: at Rochester John Marshall, 7:30 p.m.

Tyler Johnson honorable mention and 2017 captain), Blake Pfieffer (captain), Braeden Meier, Joe Edel, Kadyn Mulert and Ryan Haberman.

The group’s biggest loss from last season is 6-3, 250-pound Austin Abbas.

Keeping the opponent’s defense busy is a strong blend of

experience at both the midfield and attack positions led by last season’s leading-scorer Landon Thurnau. In 2016, the current junior tallied 23 goals and handed out 10 assists.

Joining Thurnau at attack will be captain Walker Nelson (allconference honorable mention),

WILDCAT TRAIL

who led the team with 13 assists last season to go with 21 goals while earning all-conference honorable mention consideration.

Nate Smith (13 goals in 2016), Jacob Stoykovich, Tommy Wall and Dominique Wondra will see major minutes and compliment the unit nicely.

At midfield, reigning all-conference performer Mitch Wiese will anchor the group. As a sophomore, Wiese scored 16 goals and tallied five assists while snaring a team-best 73 groundballs. Tyler Johnson (all-conference HM), Noah Brandt and Nick Sande will provide depth and balance.

Brandt is a faceoff specialist and picked up 41 groundballs last season.

Senior Brett Solie, who played baseball for the Huskies for the previous three years, is new to the sport and could play a variety of positions.

Seykora expects defending Big Nine Conference champion Northfield to be loaded once again this season.

Farmington, which defeated the Huskies 12-9 in the opening round of the playoffs in 2016, retains a lot of talent and will be one of the teams to beat in Section 1 along with Lakeville North and Lakeville South.

Reach sports editor Jon Weisbrod at 444-2375, or follow him on Twitter.com @OPPJonW

**** Head coach: Scott Seykora (14th season) Last season: 8-6 overall, 6-4 Big Nine

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Thursday, April 20, 2017

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

PAGE 7

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS LACROSSE

Change is in the air for Owatonna girls lacrosse

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

Not only will the head coach be new, but so will most of the players.

Departed from last season’s Owatonna girls lacrosse team are a dozen seniors and the program’s first-ever coach, Bill Bernard.

Dan Paur has taken over for Bernard and is irrefutably qualified for the position, but where the Huskies’ scoring will come from remains a major question as the new season unfolds.

Of the 12 players that graduated, most of them were forwards

and midfielders, including Ari Olson, Becca Sedivy, Laura Bloomenrader, Meghan Schuler, Meghan Rethemeier, Katie Skalicky and many more.

“We will need to find a new group of girls that can move the ball at a fast pace, catch in tight spaces and finish,” Paur said.

As much as the Huskies lost on offense, they did retain the core of their defense, including all-state caliber goalie Maddie Seykora.

“We are looking for her to see the ball well and help be a leader on the defensive side of the ball,” Paur said of Seykora.

“She plays an important position

for us, and her experience and leadership abilities will help our younger girls along as the season progresses.”

Positioned directly in front of Seykora are returning letterwinners — and captains — Amy Oldenburg and Ashley Beckman on defense.

“Our underclassmen will look to Amy and Ashley for leadership and how to get them through adversity,” Paur said. “We will need them both to play well in order for us to succeed.”

Spearheading the midfield will be talented junior Jade Huseby as well as Laura Ebeling, Sophie Amundson and Leah

Tucker. The forwards have the least amount of varsity experiEMAINING CHEDULE ence as Paur will look to Kenna 4: at Rochester Mayo, April 21: vs. Northfield, West, Skler Eaton and Lauren Arthur to anchor the unit.

7:30 p.m.

5:45 p.m.

The numbers are once again 22: vs. Rochester Mayo, 12: at Northfield, 6 p.m. strong up and down the program 16: vs. Mankato, 7:15 p.m.

7:15 p.m. and Owatonna is coming off a 19: vs. Rochester Cen25: at Mankato, 5:45 p.m. season in which the junior vartury, 6:15 p.m.

27: at Rochester Century, sity went undefeated.

25: at Rochester John 6:15 p.m.

Paur is embracing what BerMarshall, 7:15 p.m.

May 2: vs. Rochester nard help build from the ground up and has already began to build John Marshall, 7:15 p.m. trust with his team leaders.

“He seems like he cares about us a lot right away,” Oldenburg in and change everything right Reach sports editor Jon Weissaid. “He has a deep passion and away.” brod at 444-2375, or follow him has seen the sport at different on Twitter.com @OPPJonW levels. He doesn’t want to come

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****

Head coach: Dan Paur (1st season) Last season: 11-2 overall, 6-0 Big Nine Conference (champions)

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This spring Sports Season!

PAGE 8

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 20, 2017

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL BOYS GOLF

Langlois takes over experienced team

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

Long-time coach Keith Bangs has retired, but that’s just about the only change in the Owatonna boys golf team entering the new season.

Former assistant Mark Langlois has taken over as head coach and will lead an experienced group that earned eight varsity letters last season.

The individual with perhaps the greatest upside is Andrew

Wall, who finished 15th at the section competition and averaged an 80.1 during the 2016 campaign. He will captain the team along with John Swenson, who leveled off in the mid-80s as a junior last year.

“We are expecting great things from our captains,” Langlois said. “Andrew has a lot of experience in both high school and summer tournaments. John is second year player and had some great rounds at the end of last year.”

Rounding out the regular varsity rotation and offering depth to the program are seniors Joey Howell, Jesse Swedin and Aidan Ebner along with juniors Spencer Steckelberg, Mac Baumgartner and Matt Steel.

“Aidan, Mac, Matt and Evan have worked hard in our offseason 360 program,” Langlois said.

“We expect to see great contributions from all of these players, our last year letter winners, and the rest of the players on the team.”

Battling for the few remaining and coveted varsity spots for the first time will be a mix of Evan Hackerson (junior), Jonny Hernandez (sophomore) and Jonny Wall (eighth grade).

Underclassmen Hunter Martin, Zach Jerpbak, Sam Snitker, Brody Homan, Nolan Jacobson, Michael Bangs, Ben Skalicky, Ryan Rohwer, Nicolas Meneguzzo, Joey Brueggemeier as well as junior Corey Gander

Andrew Wall

See BOYS Golf on 19C

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS GOLF

Youthful Huskies to endure transition season in 2017

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

There is no way around it: The Owatonna girls golf team is going to be young — really, really young.

The Huskies return just one letter-winner from 2016 and do not have a senior on the roster.

“This will be a developmental year,” Owatonna coach Tim Hunst said. “We’ll likely take our fair share of lumps. The girls have an opportunity to learn and improve every day at the high school level, providing excitement for their futures.”

Junior Marie Otterson is the only individual that saw any type of varsity experience in 2016 and will be looked upon to spreahead the youthful Huskies.

REMAINING SCHEDULE April 20: vs. Faribault, 2:30 p.m.

21: at Faribault invite, 10 a.m.

27: at Northfield triangular, 2:30 p.m.

May 4: at Northfield invite, 2:30 p.m.

9: at Mankato West triangular, 2 p.m.

11: vs. Owatonna invite, 9 a.m.

15: at Austin quad, 2:30 p.m.

17: at Lake City invite, 2 p.m.

23: at Big Nine Conference invite (Mississippi National Links), 10 a.m.

“She’s a solid, consistent player who will lead our young team in improving daily,” Hunst said.

Ally Lenz is the only other upperclassman expected to crack the varsity lineup as Hunst says she needs to “step into a prominent role on our team, on and off

the course.”

Freshman Leah Seykora and eighth graders Madison Effertz, Katie Ihrke, Greta Korbel and Haley Zempel will round-out the varsity rotation and “will need to grow in their games each day.”

“We are extremely inexpe-

rienced, so we are looking for large gains early and sustaining those throughout the season,” Hunst continued. “We have a group of girls who are eager to improve daily.”

Last season’s big-school third place finisher, Red Wing,

Becky Hermanson-Hill (OHS Class of ‘87)

213-0331

Reach sports editor Jon Weisis stacked once again and will be the major threat in the Big brod at 444-2375, or follow him Nine Conference along with on Twitter.com @OPPJonW Northfield.

****

Head coach: Tim Hunst

Good Luck Huskies!

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Thursday, April 20, 2017

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

PAGE 9

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TENNIS

Owatonna returns top two singles spots

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

The Owatonna boys tennis team is strong at the top.

It’s finding depth at the pivotal middle spots that will be the key to success for the Huskies in 2017.

OHS, which finished 10-5 overall and 8-3 in the Big Nine last season, brings back its top singles player in Eden Mrozek.

The senior made the all-conference team in 2016 and will look to continue his upward rise

since taking over the top individual position as a sophomore.

Derek Thada took a major step in his development last season and will slide into the No. 2 singles position once again after making honorable mention all-conference as a junior. The lefty possesses a steady serve and good range.

Last season’s third singles player, Noah Velasquez, was a fixture in the varsity lineup for three seasons and will be missed. Spencer Intress is in line bump up from his spot at

Derek Thada

No. 4 to No. 3 singles.

At doubles, the biggest departure comes from the top combination of Jack Redman and Reed Tucker, who graduated last year.

Senior Dan Keller, who missed 2016 due to injury, as well as Cody Bussert (allconference honorable mention), Ben DeNio and Evan Huemoeller will spearhead the doubles ladder along with a few newcomers.

Keller, Mrozek and Thada have been named captains.

Long-time OHS coach Curt Matejcek — who has been with the program for 20-plus years — expects traditional powers Rochester Mayo and Rochester Century to once again battle for the top two spots in the conference. Northfield and Owatonna stand in the next tier and will jockey for the third spot in the league.

REMAINING SCHEDULE April 20: at Faribault, 5 p.m.

21: vs. Rochester John Marshall, 7 p.m.

25: vs. Mankato East, 4 p.m.

27: at Rochester Mayo, 5 p.m.

Reach sports editor Jon Weisbrod at 444-2375, or follow him on Twitter.com @ OPPJonW

29: at Shakopee tournament, 10 a.m.

May 2: vs. Rochester Century, 5 p.m.

4: at Austin, 5 p.m.

9: at Albert Lea, 5 p.m.

16: vs. Faribault, 5 p.m.

18: at Northfield, 4 p.m.

Good Luck Good Luck Good Luck Huskies Huskies Good Luck

*** Head coach: Curt Matejcek (21st season) Last season: 10-5 overall, 8-3 Big Nine

Huskies Good Luck Huskies Huskies

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PAGE 10

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 20, 2017

BLOOMING PRAIRIE HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

Awesome Blossoms could be surprise team of Gopher Conference in 2017

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

Blooming Prairie baseball coach Matt Kittelson could fill an entire lineup with the number of letter-winners he brings back from last season.

Bottom line, the numbers are on his side.

“Obviously our biggest strength will be that we return our entire team outside of one individual from last season,” Kittelson said. “Our goals as a team are to improve each and

every day, and put ourselves in a position to contend for the conference and sub-section titles at the end of the season.”

Last season’s bumps (0-12 in conference action) could transform into this spring’s conquests as the Awesome Blossoms look

upon the new season with more optimism than ever before in Kittelson’s tenure. Reigning allconference performer Riley Olson was the only senior on the roster last season and though he will be missed, a combination of nine letter-winners will help

Brad Staska

REMAINING SCHEDULE April 20: vs. NRHEG, 5 p.m. 9: vs. Schaeffer Academy, 5 p.m.

21: at J-W-P, 4:30 p.m.

11: vs. W-E-M, 5 p.m.

24: at Faribault Bethlehem 13: vs. Glenville-Emmons, Academy, 5 p.m.

11 a.m.

29: at Lyle/Pacelli, 10 a.m.

15: at NRHEG, 5 p.m.

May 1: at Maple River, 18: vs. Faribault Bethle4:30 p.m. hem Academy, 5 p.m.

2: at Hayfield, 4:30 p.m.

19: at Mankato Loyola, 4: at Medford, 5 p.m.

5 p.m.

8: at USC, 5 p.m. fill the void.

Senior outfielders Ben Smith and Camden Heimerman will provide much-needed leadership and defensive skill while juniors Max Romeo and Brad Staska will be asked to carry much of the load on offense.

Staska and Romeo tied for third on the team with 18 hits apiece last season while the Staska drove in 20 runs and belted eight doubles.

Sophomore shortstop Seth Peterson led the team in batting average (.349), hits (22) and runs (19) as a freshman and has established himself as one of the brightest young players in the Gopher Conference.

Ethan Arett will be a fixture in the middle infield and was the Blossoms’ “Gold Glove” winner as the team’s defensive MVP in 2016. Senior Connor Getchell will also provide experience at the plate and in the infield.

Freshmen Dylan Nirk, who appeared in five games as an

eighth grader last spring, will take over the team’s primary catching duties in Olson’s absence. Jack Abbe and Payton Simon will also step up into infield spots and provide depth.

Junior Ian Wayne will also deliver much needed quality innings on the mound.

“I think the mental part will be huge with this group,” Kittelson. “They’ve played a lot of varsity ball during years they should have been playing on JV, so they’ve taken their lumps.

Most of them are where they are ‘supposed’ to be now, so changing that mindset will be big.”

United South Central and Maple River will be “solid contenders” within the conference according to Kittelson while Hayfield enters the season as the frontrunner in the subsection.

Reach sports editor Jon Weisbrod at 444-2375, or follow him on Twitter.com @ OPPJonW

*** Head coach: Matt Kittelson (3rd season) Last season: 3-18 overall, 0-12 Gopher Conference

Thursday, April 20, 2017

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

PAGE 11

BLOOMING PRAIRIE HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

Despite youth, Blooming Prairie has high expectations

By JON WEISBROD

REMAINING SCHEDULE

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

Young doesn’t always mean inexperienced.

Despite the obvious youth on the roster, which includes just three seniors, five freshmen, four juniors and an eighth-grader, second-year head coach Lonnie Lembke returns seven players that earned varsity letters in 2016.

“All of the underclassmen had some type of varsity playing time last season,” Lembke said. “This team has so much potential, they may be young but they are hardworkers and are really playing together as a team for this early in the season.”

There is no doubt a youth movement sweeping through the program, but, ironically, it’s a pair of seniors that will serve as the cornerstone.

Two-time all-conference performer Bria Baldwin returns for Elly Strunk her final season and will settle into the middle of the Blossoms’ mate Elly Strunk has played on and will once again spearhead starter. When senior Jasmine Anlineup. In 2016, she led the team varsity since her freshman season the pitching staff as the regular derson or McKenn Hein is pitchin batting average at .448. Class-

4: vs. Medford, 5 p.m.

April 20: at NRHEG, 5 p.m.

8: vs. USC, 5 p.m.

21: vs. Mankato Loyola, 11: at W-E-M, 4:30 p.m.

5 p.m.

13: vs. Goodhue, 1 p.m./ 24: vs. Faribault Bethlevs. Randolph, 3 p.m. (in hem Academy, 5 p.m.

Randolph) 25: vs. Triton, 4:30 p.m.

15: vs. NRHEG, 5 p.m.

May 1: at Maple River, 16: vs. Rochester Lourdes, 5 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

2: at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 4:30 p.m. ing, Strunk will play the middle infield. Last season, Hein earned all-conference honorable mention playing on the infield.

Perhaps the team’s most versatile offensive weapon, Linnea Sunde, returns for her junior season after batting .447 last year.

She earned all-section and allconference honors in centerfield.

Joining Sunde in the outfield will be a combination of Emma Christianson, Riauna Bishop and Marti Snider while freshmen Julia Worke and Lila Carlson will add depth to the infield.

After a breakout season as an eighth grader in which she earned all-conference honorable mention consideration, big things are expected of catcher Maya Lembke.

Jerrin Jax, who worked her way into the starting lineup late last season, as well as Allison Krohnberg will play a variety of positions.

Reach sports editor Jon Weisbrod at 444-2375, or follow him on Twitter.com @OPPJonW

*** Head coach: Lonnie Lembke (2nd season) Last season: 10-14 overall, 2-5 Gopher Conference

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OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 20, 2017

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OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

PAGE 13

BLOOMING PRAIRIE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Awesome Blossoms must find a way to replace versatile runner, Lauren Larkoski

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

The Blooming Prairie girls track and field team lost just one athlete to graduation, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be some major transition in 2017.

Lauren Larkoski meant that much to the program.

“She was a wonderful leader during practice and scored a lot of points for us,” Blooming Prairie coach Kari Bottin said of Larkoski, who participated in the 400

meter spring and half the relays.

“She was a power house for us in those mid-distances and she will be greatly missed.”

With plenty of athletes to choose from, the Awesome Blossoms look to eight upperclassmen, three sophomores, four freshman and eight eighth graders to fill the lineup.

Leading the short distance runs will be senior Kylie Forystek, who will be joined by varsity newcomer Abby Bratten.

Bottin expects the mid-distance individual events will be

the Blossoms’ biggest strength as Sam Wurst, Anna Kittelson, Greta Sunday and Taylor Wurst all return after earning letters last season. Sam Wurst is also expected to participate in the high jump along with Gemini Johnson and Jayde Wacek in the horizontal jumps.

Alison Pryor will be Bottin’s go-to athlete for the 800 and 1,600 meter runs. Asia Thostenson and Rachel Oswald are the team’s top hurdles in both the 100 and 300 events.

Leah Inwards will participate

in the throws (discus and shot put) while Leah Schiefert returns EMAINING CHEDULE as the team’s pole vaulter. Last season, Schiefert finished sixth April 25: Blooming Prairie May 9: at Rushford-Peterat the Section 1-A competition. son invite, 1 p.m. home meet, 4:30 p.m.

Baylee Sorenson and Viridi- April 27: at Hayfield meet, May 16: at Gopher Conana Villareal are returning ference meet (Medford), 4:30 p.m. freshman who will help us in the 4:30 p.m.

May 1: at United South throwing events.

Central meet, 4:30 p.m.

“We have most of our team May 2: Blooming Prairie back,” Bottin said. “And we are home meet, 4:30 p.m. looking to continue on the progress we made last year and build brod at 444-2375, or follow him on our program. Our conference can make a mark this year.”

Twitter.com @OPPJonW is a challenge when it comes to Reach sports editor Jon Weistrack, but we definitely hope we

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*** Head coach: Kari Bottin (8th season) Last season: 7th in Gopher Conference

BLOOMING PRAIRIE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS AND GIRLS GOLF Blooming Prairie boys are conference favorite; girls still with two individuals on roster

By CORY HENDRICKSON

Blooming Prairie golf co-head coach

The Blooming Prairie boys and girls golf teams are excited for the start of the 2017 season.

Carl Peterson and Cory Hendrickson return for their second season as co-Head coaches of the boys and girls teams.

The girls program returns Taylor Christianson (12th grade) from a successful season in 2016.

Taylor Christianson won the Gopher Conference girls championship and placed second in the Section 1A meet. She also placed sixth at the State Class A golf tournament.

two girls we have out for golf so we will not be able to have a full EMAINING CHEDULE girls team.

The boys program returns May 2: at Maple River April 20: at Stewartville three varsity regulars from last meet, 4:30 p.m. (boys) invite, noon (boys); year’s team that qualified for the May 4: Blooming Prairie at Maple River meet, state competition for the first home meet, 4:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m. (girls) time in program history. Senior (girls) April 22: Blooming Prairie Tommy Braaten was an AllMay 11: at Faribault home meet, 9 a.m. (boys) Conference performer, won the Bethlehem Academy, April 25: at Triton invite, Section 1A championship and he 4:30 p.m. (boys/girls) 1 p.m. (girls); BloomMay 15: at NRHEG (Wase- tied for fourth in the state meet. ing Prairie home meet, Junior Lucas Noble was an honca Lakeside), 12:30 p.m.

4:30 p.m. (boys) orable mention All-Conference (boys/girls) April 27: at NRHEG meet, performer. The other varsity May 18: at Gopher 4:30 p.m. (girls) Conference competition, regular returning to the team is May 1: at Triton invitajunior Jake Ressler.

10 a.m. (boys/girls) tional, 1 p.m. (boys/girls) Jon Hatch and Ethan Strunk will be the two biggest subtracJessica Ressler (eighth grade) Conference pick last season. tions from last year’s team. was an honorable mention All- Unfortunately, they are the only

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Blooming Prairie placed fifth at the state meet and won the Gopher Conference and Section 1-A championships.

Other returning boys who should compete for varsity action will be Colton Ivers (sophomore), Austin Behne (junior), Austin Christians (senior), Jon Herron (junior), Zach Weise (junior) and Nick Thompson (junior).

The rest of our roster includes: Evan Doerhoefer (senior), Payton Hatch (junior), Timur Kritzer (junior), Kyler Christianson

(junior), Kollyn Alwes (eighth grade) Tommy Donnelly (eighth grade) and seventh graders graders Colin Jordison, David Kartes and Isaac Smith.

In the conference race for the boys Maple River returns a strong nucleus of players will be a strong contender.

In the section, there are lots of teams with excellent depth, including Lewiston-Altura, Rushford-Peterson, Caledonia and Hayfield.

*** Head coach: Carl Peterson and Cory Hendrickson Last season: Gopher Conference, Section 1-A champions; 5th at Class A meet

PAGE 14

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 20, 2017

NRHEG HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

Panthers lack elite pitcher, retain depth, skill on infield

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

After losing its first five games last season, the NRHEG baseball team could have bottomed-out, but they didn’t.

Instead, the Panthers recovered and finished 8-7 in their final 15 regular season games.

NRHEG carried its momentum into the postseason and defeated a strong St. Peter team in the opening round of the Section 2-AA tournament before dropping two straight games to end the season at 9-14.

Though third-year head coach Drew Paukert would like to avoid another roller-coaster campaign, he’s rather take his lumps in the beginning of the season and playing his best ball for the playoffs.

“Our goals this year are to be playing our best baseball come the end of May,” Paukert said.

“We want be a factor in the Gopher Conference race and host a home playoff game.”

Paukert will look to a mix of mainly upperclassmen to carry the team in 2017, led by threesport athlete Jack Schultz. Last year, the senior chewed up the second most innings on the mound behind all-conference performer Dempsey Tucker, who has since graduated.

“Jack will be the workhorse on the mound for us this spring,” Paukert said. “We will need qual-

REMAINING SCHEDULE

Cole Staloch

April 20: at Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m.

24: vs. J-W-P, 4:30 p.m.

25: vs. Zumbrota-Maazeppa, 5 p.m.

27: vs. Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m.

May 1: vs. United South Central, 5 p.m. paths.”

Jake Tasker is a freshman that will contribute to the varsity for the first time and play the infield and pitcher.

“The biggest key to our success this spring will be developing some pitching depth behind Jack Schultz,” Paukert said “We will also have to be sound defenity innings out of Jack this year to be successful.”

Schultz’s battery-mate on most nights will Sam Prigge.

As a junior, Prigge served as the team’s starting catcher and leadoff batter, and the same is expected this spring. He will also see plenty of innings on the mound.

“Sam is an extremely intelligent athlete, which helps us behind the plate,” Paukert said.

“Sam doesn’t have a lot of varsity experience on the pitching, but had a successful legion season.

He will also be a key for us of-

fensively.”

Cole Staloch returns after an all-conference sophomore campaign in which he led the team in batting average (.338) and finished second in RBIs. He has been the Panthers’ starting shortstop since his freshman season.

“Cole will anchor our defense up the middle again,” Paukert said. “He is another intelligent baseball player that can play anywhere on the field for us. He will be a big part of our success this spring.”

Joining Staloch up the middle on the infield is Sawyer VanMaldegham, who Paukert says could be the most gifted athlete on the team. After cracking the starting lineup about a third of the way through the season as a freshman, VanMaldegham rose to the top of the batting order by the end of the season.

“He possesses a ton of natural talent and speed,” Paukert said.

“Sawyer will play a key role for us at the top of the lineup this year in terms of getting on base and wreaking havoc on the base

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sively behind our pitchers that lack experience. I feel if we can do both of those things, we will have a chance to be competitive each and every game.”

Reach editor reporter Jon Weisbrod at 444-2375, or follow him on Twitter.com @OPPJonW

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*** Head coach: Drew Paukert (3rd season) Last season: 9-14 overall, 3-9 Gopher Conference

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9: at Maple River, 5 p.m.

11: vs. Medford, 5 p.m.

13: at TCU, noon 15: vs. Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m.

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OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

PAGE 15

NRHEG HIGH SCHOOL BOYS AND GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

Panthers track needs youngsters to step up

By DANIEL RING

dring@wasecacountynews.com

In his 27th year running the Panthers’ program, NRHEG coach Duey Ferber will have young teams in their own separate ways.

On the girls side, despite being young, there is still experience to work with. Five sophomores return as letter-winners along with six freshmen. Among those ninth-graders is Mia Williams and Jade Mely, who are

both already veterans on the Panthers cross-country team.

Leading NRHEG at the top are its three returning seniors.

Maddie Wagner and Marnie Wagner each compete in similar sprinting and jumping events and should combine to lift up the Panthers sprint relays.

Though it may be a while until senior Gretchen Ramaker hits the track coming off a knee injury, she still provides invaluable leadership as a five-year letterwinner and could help by the

end of the season with sprints.

NRHEGs’ boys squad is young in the more truer sense.

The Panthers have just five returning upperclassmen with a large eighth-grade class coming in.

Josh Flemming and Ben Lewer lead the Panthers distance and relay events while sophomore Brady Agrimson will likely take another step in all three jumps. Alex Buckmeier will likely fill the gap left by Zeke Erickson in shot put and discus

*** Head coach: Duey Ferber

as well.

In the Gopher Conference, Maple River appears to be the boys favorite while WEM should remain near the top in girls competition. And in Section 2A, expect Fairmont and Blue Earth Area to be overall favorites.

In all, 16 letter-winners are underclassmen.

Sports Editor Daniel Ring can be reached at 507-837-5447 or follow him on Twitter @ WCNSports.

REMAINING SCHEDULE April 21: at United South Central (nonconference), 4:30 p.m.

May 1: at United South Central (Gopher Conference), 4:30 p.m.

May 2: at Blooming Prairie meet, 4:30 p.m.

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

May 16: at Gopher Conference competition (Medford), 4:30 p.m.

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PAGE 16

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 20, 2017

MEDFORD HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

VonRuden, Meixner spearhead list of returning players for Medford

By JON WEISBROD

The Tigers, though, are well equipped to handle the annual exodus of top-flight talent. Head coach Jon Chappuis has dediTurnover is inevitable.

For the Medford baseball cated the last 3-4 years to underteam, this annual transition just standing the cerebral side of the so happens to be a little more game and has built a mentally substantial than usual in 2017. strong and tightly-knit core of jweisbrod@owatonna.com

Javis VonRuden

players.

“Team chemistry and leadership are some of the biggest attributes this team has,” Chappuis said. “They consider themselves a family and that helps aid in the success of this team. This team has a strong desire to compete.”

Gone from last season’s team that finished 11-9 overall are former all-conference players Nick Meixner and Wyatt Volkmann.

The pair each batted around .300 and combined for almost 90 innings on the mound.

Volkmann led the squad in

REMAINING SCHEDULE April 20: at W-E-M, 5 p.m. 8: at Lake Crystal-Wellcome Memorial, 5 p.m.

24: vs. Maple River, 9: vs. Randolph, 5 p.m.

5 p.m.

11: at NRHEG, 5 p.m.

25: 5 p.m. Triton, 5 p.m.

13: vs. Minneapolis 27: at United South CenSouth, 10 a.m.; vs. Spring tral, 5 p.m.

May 1: at Faribault Beth- Lake Park, 3 p.m. (Medford round-robin) lehem Academy, 5 p.m.

15: vs. W-E-M, 5 p.m.

4: vs. Blooming Prairie, 18: at Maple River, 5 p.m.

5 p.m.

ERA at 2.78 while Meixner was tops in wins with four. Also lost to graduation are Cody Rehman, Tyler Stenzel (.326 BA) and Reid Grayson.

Medford returns 12 players that played at least part-time roles for the Tigers in 2016. Allarea catcher Javis VonRuden will anchor the middle of the lineup and serve as one of the team’s leaders on and off the field. Last spring as a sophomore, he batted .439 with nine RBIs and 13 runs-scored.

Infielder Nathan Meixner will also play a pivotal role as one of the Tigers’ run-producing bats and top-end pitchers. In 2016, he batted .328 with 10 RBIs and 15 runs. Junior classmate Ian Gillis returns to his spot at second base and will likely settle into the top of the batting order. He batted .265 last season as a regular starter.

Cael Kavitz (OF) and Cole Volkman (IF, P) both displayed great promise last season, batting

well above .400 in limited opportunities. Jon O’Daffer is back for his senior season and will offer depth in the outfield.

With the MSHSL implementing stricter rules in terms of innings allowed per week for pitchers, right-handers Alex Gengler and Ben Borash will see plenty of action in their first varsity season. When not on the mound, Gengler will play first and Borash in the outfield.

Medford won seven of its final eight regular season games in 2016 and finished .500 or above in league play for the second straight season.

This year, the Tigers have added Class AAAA Spring Lake Park and Minneapolis South to the schedule as part of the Medford invite on May 13.

Reach sports editor Jon Weisbrod at 444-2375, or follow him on Twitter.com @OPPJonW

*** Head coach: Jon Chappuis (6th season) Last season: 11-9 overall, 6-6 Gopher Conference

Thursday, April 20, 2017

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

PAGE 17

MEDFORD HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

Heavy-hitting Kori Dodge spearheads Medford softball

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

If Medford wasn’t the youngest softball team in the entire state last season, it was certainly in the top three.

Playing without a senior last year, the youthful Tigers return virtually their entire lineup for 2017, and with the added experience comes greater expectations.

And for good reason.

Medford’s one senior is perhaps the most dangerous offensive weapon in the conference in catcher Kori Dodge. A season after leading the Tigers in

every major offensive statistic, Dodge opened the 2017 season by smashing 11 hits in her first three games, three of which left the yard. In the span, Medford scored 40 runs and won their first two games by mercy rule.

“Just her presence at the plate will be a big factor for us this season,” third-year coach Alyssa Strunk said.

Surrounding Dodge in the lineup with by six returning freshman in Izzy Reuvers at shortstop, Kiley Nihart at second, Mackenzie Paulson at pitcher, Emma Kniefel in centerfield, Jordyn Stadler at third base and

Madison Klein at first. Sophomore Journey Anderst will play one of the corner outfield spots.

Kniefel is expected to own the leadoff spot followed by Reuvers and Stadler ahead of Dodge at cleanup.

Lexi Lacanne collected four hits (one homerun) in her first three games this season and will play right or left field.

There is no doubt the Tigers, who won their first conference game since 2014 on April 3 when they defeated USC 14-1, can swing the bats, evidenced by their early-season success.

However, it’s defense and

pitching that could determine how far Medford will rise this spring.

“They key to our success is going to be if we can play clean, error free softball,” Strunk said, whose cousin, Elly, is the starting pitcher for Blooming Prairie. “If we can do that, we will be just fine. We know that we are the underdogs in the majority of our competitions, but we know we have the potential to upset any team.”

Reach sports editor Jon Weisbrod at 444-2375, or follow him on Twitter.com @OPPJonW

REMAINING SCHEDULE 4: at Blooming Prairie, April 20: vs. W-E-M, 5 p.m.

5 p.m.

21: at G-H-EC/Martin 8: vs. Glenville-Emmons, Luther, 5 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

22: at Glenville-Emmons 9: vs. Randolph, 5 p.m. tournament, 10:30 a.m.

11: vs. NRHEG, 5 p.m.

25: at Mple River, 5 p.m.

12: at Cannons Falls, 27: vs. United South Cen4:30 p.m. tral, 5 p.m.

15: at W-E-M, 5 p.m.

28: vs. TCU, 5 p.m.

May 1: vs. Faribault Beth- 18: vs. Maple River, 5 p.m. lehem Academy, 5 p.m. *** Head coach: Alyssa Strunk (3rd season) Last season: 5-15 overall, 0-9 Gopher Conference

GOOD LUCK

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PAGE 18

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Medford retains 19 letter-winners

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

Head coach: Kevin Werk Returning letter-winners: Girls (10), Boys (9) Returning letter-winners and projected events (girls): Amber Sobrack (shot, discus), Ashley Gilbertson (shot, discus), Callie Nagel (pole vault), Mikayla Spinler (shot, discus), Jenna McCarthy (pole vault, hurdles), Bailey Purrier (long jump, triple jump, relays), Meredith Gillis (pole vault), Rachael Luebbe (sprints, relays, high jump), Payton Powers (hurdles, relays), Brooke Purrier (sprints, relays) Key individuals and projected events (boys): Josh Schauer (400, 800, relays), Marcus DeLeon (sprints, relays), Greg Lar-

REMAINING SCHEDULE April 20: at Triton meet, 4:30 p.m.

April 25: Medford home meet, 4:30 p.m.

May 1: at United South Central meet, 4:30 p.m.

May 2: at Blooming Prairie meet, 4:30 p.m. son (triple jump), Brett Johnson (pole vault, distance), Devan List (sprints, long jump), Jacob Gasner (shot, discus), Joey Schull (jumps), Noah Pirkl (sprints, jumps), Ryan Hermanstorfer (sprints, jumps) Projected Gopher Conference/section favorites: Maple River, W-E-M (conference)/P-EM, Byron (section)

May 4: at Byron invite, 4:30 p.m.

May 9: at Rushford-Peterson invite, 1 p.m.

May 11: Medford home meet, 4:30 p.m.

May 16: at Gopher Conference competition (Medford), 4:30 p.m.

From coach Kevin Werk: “We have always been strong in the field evets and I would expect that to continue. I also saw great improvement from out relay teams last year [and] most of them will be returning.”

Reach sports editor Jon Weisbrod at 444-2375, or follow him on Twitter.com @OPPJonW

NRHEG looks to build on solid 2016 campaign

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

Head coach: Brad Root (29th year) Last season: 9-2 overall, 6th in sub-section Returning letter-winners (girls): Senior Jill Jongbloedt, senior Kallie Spooner, junior Kyra Possin Key individual lost (girls): Jessica Nafe, Bayli Possin,Grace Logan, Ryley Kozilek Projected Gopher Conference favorites: United South Central, NRHEG. From head coach Brad Root: “The girls need to be mentally tough and focused this year. Mak-

REMAINING SCHEDULE

April 20: at Maple River meet, 4:30 p.m.

April 27: NRHEG home meet, 4:30 p.m. (Riverview GC) May 4: at Blooming Prairie meet, 4:30 p.m.

May 11: at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 4:30 p.m.

ing sure they are prepared for whatever weather conditions exist, as well as dealing with situations on the course will be a priority. As always, we want our student-athletes to enjoy the sport and have fun while at the same time represent-

May 12: at J-W-P, 4:30 p.m.

May 15: NRHEG home meet, 12:30 p.m. (Waseca Lakeside GC) May 18: at Gopher Conference Meet, 10 a.m. (Waseca Lakeside GC)

ing our school well. In order to best enjoy the game, a good grasp of the rules of golf is necessary. We will be working on the rules and golf etiquette so our golfers will be knowledgeable and welcome wherever we travel to play.”

Thursday, April 20, 2017

NRHEG brings back most of 2016 team that went 16-7

By JON WEISBROD

REMAINING SCHEDULE

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

Head coach: Wendy Schultz (19th season) Last season: 16-7 overall, 4-2 Gopher Conference Returning letter-winners (position, 2016 recognition): Senior Rachel Collins (SS, allconference); senior Grace Johns (C, all-conference, team MVP); senior Kayley Camerer (1B, allconference, team Golden Bat Award); senior Natalie Aaseth (P/ OF); junior Gabby Muri (2B/C, team Most Improved Award); freshman Paige Knudson (3B, all-conference); freshman Skylar Lembke (OF); eighth grade Sarah

April 20: vs. Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m.

21: at Blue Earth Area, 5 p.m.

24: vs. LCWM, 5 p.m.

27: at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m.

May 1: at United South

Johns (OF) Key individual lost (position, 2016 recognition): Anna Lundberg (P, team Oil Can Award); Torrie Stencel (CP) Projected Gopher Conference favorites: W-E-M, Maple River, Blooming Prairie, Farib-

Central, 5 p.m.

4: vs. W-E-M, 4:30 p.m.

9: vs. Maple River, 4:30 p.m.

11: at Medford, 5 p.m.

13: at Hayfield tournament 15: at Blooming Prairie, 5 p.m.

ault Bethlehem Academy.

From head coach Wendy Schultz coach: “Our expectation is to finish in top half of the conference [and] to improve throughout the season to be playing our best softball during playoffs.”

NRHEG returns entire lineup from 2016, adds a few new faces REMAINING SCHEDULE

By JON WEISBROD

jweisbrod@owatonna.com

Head coach: Brad Root (29th year) Last season: 9-16 overall, 7th in sub-section Returning letter-winners (boys): Ethan Thompson, Rob Jewett, Atom Oquest New members: Tyler Rainmann, Jacob Leibeg, Oakley Baker, Aaron Olson, Tyler Mithon, Jadyn Surat, Michiah VanSykel, Ethan Thompson, John Hoelsher Key individual lost (boys): None Projected Gopher Conference

April 22: at Blooming Prairie tournament, 9 a.m.

April 25: at Triton invitational, 1 p.m.

May 2: at Maple River meet, 4:30 p.m.

May 11: at Faribault Bethlehem favorites: United South Central, Blooming Prairie From head coach Brad Root: “Course-management is a huge part of the game as well as becoming strong mentally. We need to move from being practice players to tournament players. We will again have

Academy meet, 4:30 p.m.

May 12: at J-W-P meet, 4:30 p.m.

May 15: NRHEG home competition, 12:30 p.m.

May 18: at Gopher Conference tournament, 10 a.m. good numbers on the boys side, so someone may emerge as a surprise to help us. We did not have many JV meets last year so the non-varsity players didn’t get much meet experience. The varsity boys have pretty good golf skills, but need to work on the mental side of the game.

GOOD LUCK TO ALL AREA

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Thursday, April 20, 2017

OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Boys Golf From Page 8C

will round-out the JV roster.

“The key to our success this year is how we develop and improve from 120 yards and in,” Langlois said “Our players need to strive for excellence every day, persevere through adversity, and focus on the present.”

Gage Schuster, who led the team in scoring average with a 79.2, and Isaac Smith (92.3) are the only two letter-winners not returning for 2017 after graduating last May. Red Wing is expected to be a major threat in the Big Nine Conference while Lakeville South is pegged as the section favorite according to Langois.

Reach sports reporter Jon Weisbrod at 444-2375, or follow him on Twitter.com @OPPJonW

REMAINING SCHEDULE April 20: at Alexandria 15: at Albert Lea quad, invite, 9:30 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

21: vs. Mankato East, 20: Owatonna invite, 2:30 p.m.

10 a.m.

24: at Byron invite, 11 a.m. 23: at Big Nine Conference 25: vs. Northfield and meet (Rochester Eastwood Winona, 2:30 p.m.

GC), 10 a.m.

May 1: at Red Wing trian25: at Brainerd invite, gular, 2:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

June 1: Section 1-AAA 3: at Lake City invite, 2 p.m. opening round (The Jewel) 6: at Forest Lake invite, June 3: Section 1-AAA 3 p.m. finals (The Jewel) 8: at Faribault, 2:30 p.m.

11: at Rochester John Marshall triangular, 2:30 p.m.

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****

Head coach: Mark Langlois Last season: 9th in Big Nine Conference

Boys Track From Page 4C

Varsity newcomer Jason Williamson, who is one of the top sophomore running backs in the state for football, could clock-in with the sprinters and serve as the team’s top long-jumper.

On the field, the Huskies possess great depth at the throwing events as Darik Elstad, Ethan DeKam and Chandler Buckhalter will spearhead the shot put and discus.

Colton Kamholz and Carlis Beascoche will serve as the team’s top pole-vaulters.

REMAINING SCHEDULE April 21: at Stillwater invite, 5 p.m.

April 25: vs. Winona at Austin, 4:30 p.m.

April 27: at Lakeville South meet, 3:30 p.m.

May 2: at Winona triangular, 4:30 p.m.

May 4: at Cambridge-Isanti meet, 4 p.m.

May 5: at Rochester Mayo invite, 4 p.m.

May 11: at True Team Section meet (Lakeville North), 2 p.m.

May 16: at Faribault triangular, 4:30 p.m.

May 25: at Big Nine Conference competition (Mankato West), 10:30 a.m.

Reach sports editor Jon Weisbrod at 444-2375, or follow him

on Twitter.com @OPPJonW

****

Head coach: Kevin Stelter (20th season) Last season: Big Nine Conference meet champions, 3rd at Section 1-AA meet

OHS Baseball From Page 2C

Cummins certainly has a plethora of high-end options at a variety of positions, but that doesn’t mean he won’t have some major gaps in the lineup.

The list of departed players starts with defensive wizard Alec Holcomb at catcher. The

reigning People’s Press Player of the Year gunned down 50 percent of potential base-stealers in 2016 and anchored the middle of the order for two seasons.

Other notable subtractions from last season are leadoff batter and centerfielder Blake West-

****

Head coach: Tate Cummins Last season: 15-10 overall

phal, regular designated hitter Sam Hylle and part-time starter Eli Havelka.

Reach sports editor Jon Weisbrod at 444-2375, or follow him on Twitter.com @OPPJonW

PAGE 19

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OWATONNA PEOPLE'S PRESS SPRING SPORTS

Thursday, April 20, 2017

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