Valley Area SPRING SPORT SPORTS Preview FEATURING:
St. Peter Saints • Le Sueur-Henderson Giants Tri-City United Titans • Cleveland Clippers
Wednesday, April 1, 2015 • Thursday, April 2, 2015
TCU softball brings back experienced team By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
Tri City United Softball Head Coach: Phil Murry, 20th year as a head coach, 23rd year in softball. Served as Head Coach of Le Center/Cleveland for 19 years. 3 years of B Squad at TCU. This is his first year back as head coach. Varsity Assistant: Lora Angelino, 12th year. B Squad: Carolyn Harmeyer, 1st year as B Squad coach, 8th year in the program Junior High: Sarah Adams, 9th year; Diane Tiede, 1st year. Key Players Seniors: Sarah Holicky, Jenna Bednar, Sam Hellerud, Megan Skluzacek, Casey Hintz — “These seniors bring a lot of experience to our program,” Murry said. “This will be Sarah and Jenna’s 4th year on the varsity. Sarah will play shortstop, and Jenna will play first and possibly throw some for us. Sam, Meg and Casey all started games last year as juniors. Sam will pitch and play some outfield for us. While Megan Casey will see time in the infield and outfield respectively.” Keep Your Eye On Underclassmen: Anna Lloyd comes back after splitting her time last year between varsity and B squad. “She is working at catching so far, but is very versatile and will find playing time somewhere,” Murry said. Ellie Novak, 8th-grader, will get the opportunity to throw some
TCU first-base coach Lora Angileno is the first to congratulate her daughter, pitcher Alyshia Angileno, after she gets the win over St. Peter in the first round of the Section 2AA tournament last season. Shortstop Sarah Holicky and first baseman Jenna Bednar also join the celebration. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
for the varsity. “She is a very talented softball player that has put in a lot of time as she plays almost year round,” Murry said. Taylor Factor, junior — This will be Taylor’s first year on the varsity. “She is extremely quick and has the upper hand in the battle for center field,” Murry said.
Kaitlyn Buss, Sophomore — “An excellent arm sets her apart,” Murry said. “She looks to start the year at third base, but may also provide some pitching depth.” Moved On Alesha Angelino, Molly Ehlers 2015 Outlook “I look for us to be very com-
petitive this year,” Murry said. “We bring back players at some the key positions, (shortstop/ first base) as well as some other seniors that have played a lot of softball over the years. In addition, we have some young players that should be ready to step up and make an immediate impact.
If we can fill that hole, we can really be pretty good. Right now, it appears to be a battle between Juniors Erin Budin, Melynda Florea, and Anna Lloyd. We also have three freshman catchers that could see some action if needed.” “The conference and section begins and ends with Le SueurHenderson. They won the conference last year, won the section and finished runner-up in the state to Kasson-Mantorville. They return arguably the best player in Southern Minnesota, in Carly Brandt. They are far from a one-person team as the have a good mix of young players as well. “I see the rest of the conference as very well balanced. We face LSH in doubleheader at the end of the season. I would love to play well enough early to really make those games have some conference meaning.” Comments “I am excited to be back as a head coach. I feel that we have a very nice blend of experienced and young players. How well that translates into wins, remains to be seen. A lot will depend on how well we come together as a team. — Phil Murry, head coach By the Numbers 16 — Juniors and seniors 32 — Players in grades 9-12 23 — Number of years coaching softball
“We suffered a devastating injury during the basketball season, as three-year letter winner and last years catcher Dani Angelino tore her ACL and was lost for the season. That means that we will start the season, with no Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck one on the roster that has caught a at 931-8566 or follow him on complete game at the varsity level. Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat.
PAGE 2
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
Tri-City United boys track hopes to fill holes left by graduation By DANA MELIUS
dmelius@stpeterherald.com
COACHES Head coach: Brian Mikel, fifth year as head, 16 years as an assistant Assistant coaches: Tony Barnack (shot and discus) eighth year; Craig Nordling (hurdles and high jump), third year; Michael Hougen (sprints and pole vault, Jr High), first year at TCU,;Annie Dahl (middle distance, Jr High), first year. KEY PLAYERS Max Arroyo – Middle distance and high jump; excellent athlete, very versatile. Can perform successfully in many different events. 3-year letter winner. Jamison Beulke: Sprints, long jump, triple jump. 3-year letter winner, very athletic. Kelly Nordling: 200m, 400m, high jump, triple jump. Fifth in state last year in high jump. 3-year letter winner, excellent athlete. Scott McCabe: High jump, triple jump, 200m. 2-year letter winner. Ben Barnack: distance runner. 2-year letter winner. Jared Dooley: Distance. 3-year letter winner. Thomas Franek: 800m and pole vault. 2-year letter winner. Michael McCrady: sprints, relays and long jump. 2-year letter winner. Micheal has excellent speed. Carter Rynda: hurdles and long jump, 400m. ninth in state in 300m hurdles last year. 2-year letter winner. Sonny Weitzki: 800m. 1-year letter winner.
The 2015 TCU varsity boys track and field team. (Dana Melius/Le Center Leader)
KEEP YOUR EYE ON Taylor Jackson, 10th-grade, 100, 200, 400. Isaac Rivera, 11th-grade, 800, 1600. Newcomer from Chaska area. Alex Schaak, 12th-grade, first year out. Ran cross country this year. Jake Schwarz:,11th-grade, versatile athlete: can triple jump, long jump, run in multiple relays and
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middle distance events. Chris Peiper: 11th-grade, distance runner. Evan Wood, 10th-grade 200m and 400m. Jaymin Vargo, 10th-grade, 110m and 300m Hurdles MOVED ON Marty McGuire, John Christian, Mitchell Dooley, Kyle Ellingsworth, Hunter Factor, Alec Pfarr, Mason Brownlee.
2015 SEASON OUTLOOK Last year: Fourth in Minnesota River Conference and first in the subsection. “We lost quite a few pointgetters from last year’s squad, including John Christian, Marty McGuire and Mitch Dooley,” Mikel said. “They will be hard to replace, but we have a large group of juniors that can hopefully step up this year and establish themselves.
Athletes thrive on pushing limits. But what happens when you’ve gone too far? Don’t let pain or injury compromise your competitive edge.
We have a nice group of returning letter winners that should allow us to be very competitive in most meets this season. Our goal is always to get as many participants to the state meet as possible. Hopefully that number will improve over last year.” BY THE NUMBERS 38 — athletes out for track this year (9-12) 8 seniors and 18 juniors — 6
of these are first-year participants 2 — returners with state meet experience Reach Associate Editor Dana Melius at 507-931-8568 or follow him on Twitter @SPHdanajohn.
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Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 3
TCU golf team features many new faces By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
Senior Ryan Thompson give the Titans two lefty in the team’s pitching rotation for 2015. (Leader file photo)
Junior Trevor Smisek will lead the Titan pitching staff at the top of the TCU rotation this season. (Leader file photo)
TCU Titans baseball boasts two lefties in rotation By DANA MELIUS
dmelius@stpeterherald.com
Tri-City United Baseball COACHES Head Coach: Bruce Davis, 29th year as head baseball coach Assistant Varsity Coach: Adam Hanson, 8th year Junior Varsity Coach: Matt Miller, 10th year Freshman Coach: Mark Gregor, 6th year Eighth-grade Coaches: Phil Campbell, 7th year; Matt Collins, 2nd year. Seventh-grade Coach: Bruce Hollom, first year. KEY PLAYERS Tre vor Smis ek: Junior pitcher/1b/OF, 2014 All Conference player. Very good high school pitcher Ryan Thompson: Senior pitcher/First base. Left-handed pitcher Jackson Feddema: Junior shortstop Sam Ehlers: Junior centerfielder Trey Krautkremer: Junior pitcher/third base Max Kalina: Junior catcher KEEP AN EYE ON Aaron Chimal: Junior outfielder Brennon Vollmer: Junior outfielder
Issac Pint: Sophomore second baseman Greg Johnson: Junior pitcher/ utility player MOVED ON Ted Christian: Pitcher at St. John’s Pat Lloyd: Infield at St. John’s Joe Rynda: Pitcher at Gustavus 2015 SEASON OUTLOOK “The TCU Titans baseball team is excited for the upcoming season,” Davis said. “The team hopes to rely on some very good starting pitching this season. “If the pitchers do their job and the defense makes the plays they need to make, the Titans hope to contend for the Minnesota River Conference title and the Section 2 AA title this spring.” COACH’S COMMENTS “Trevor Smisek is the team’s No. 1 starter, followed by the only senior on the team, Ryan Thompson,” Davis said. “Both will play first base when not pitching. This will give the Titans two left-handed pitchers on the top of the rotation. Trey Krautkremer will be asked to log a number of innings as the No. 3 starter and the team’s starting third baseman. Greg Johnson and Issac Pint will work out of the No. 4 and No. 5 spots in the rotation. “We are a very young team this
year. One senior, 10 juniors, and 1 sophomore will make up the varsity team to start the season. There will be other sophomores and maybe a freshmen or two making a run at the varsity roster by the end of the year. “The one area of concern for the Titans is the lack of experience on this team. We are a very young team and there will be a learning curve for these kids to make the jump from JV and ninth-grade baseball to varsity baseball. The quicker the kids make the step to varsity baseball the more games we will win. “Jackson Feddema and Issac Pint are starting the season as the shortstop and second base-
man for the Titans. Max Kalina will be behind the plate, with Sam Ehlers, Aaron Chimal and Brennan Vollmer running down the fly balls in the outfield. Greg Johnson will be asked to play multiple positions along with pitching. Kody Koktavy and Brad O’Malley will be an important part of the team and ready to fill in when needed.” BY THE NUMBERS 1 — Senior 10 — Juniors 1 — Sophomore 2 — Left-handed pitchers in the Titan rotation. Reach Associate Editor Dana Melius at 507-931-8568 or follow him on Twitter @SPHdanajohn.
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Tri-City United Golf Head coach: Nate Higgins, 12th year KEY PLAYERS Garrett Klaus, junior, 2-year letter winner, Section 2AA qualifier in 2013 Jon Reak, junior, 3-year letter winner. Plays smart and manages his game well on the course. • Only 2 lettermen returning KEEP YOUR EYE ON Mac Malecha, senior (1st year); Jeremy Walerius, senior (1st year); John Scott, junior (2nd year); Jacob Duque, 8th-grade; Jeremy Beer, 9thgrade; Jonathon Davies, 9th; Josh Holicky, 9th; Dylan Borchardt, 9th • “Both seniors are 1st-year golfers, but are athletic kids who have played other sports,” Higgins said. “The hand-eye coordination from those sports will transfer skills to golf perhaps allowing them to make an immediate impact for our team.” MOVED ON (All lettermen who made up two-thirds of the varsity team last year): Taylor Riebel, Carter Stevens, John Hanek, Nate Kotek. 2015 SEASON OUTLOOK “This season we will be pretty inexperienced having graduated four of our six varsity golfers on a team that finished fifth in the conference,” Higgins said. “We have some new players both young and old that I am confident will be able to contribute right away and help our team compete the best we can. “Our goal should be to continually score lower as individuals and thus as a team as the year progresses. If we do that we may be able to surprise some people in the conference and section.
Jon Reak of TCU sends a putt to the No. 3 hole at Montgomery. (Leader file photo)
“The favorite in our conference will be Jordan and Mayer Lutheran. Both teams have very good golfers returning and they finished 1st and 2nd last season. Our section includes New Ulm, Mankato East and Fairmont which will all have solid players returning. Jordan is also in our section and they will represent our conference well in the post season.” COACH’S COMMENTS “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. They’ve committed to working on their short games inside where we have been limited. They are looking forward to getting back outside, playing some real golf and competing in matches. “ – Nate Higgins, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 10 — New golfers to the program this season who will be competing for varsity playing positions.
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PAGE 4
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
Tri-City United girls track and field ready to make another strong run By DANA MELIUS
dmelius@stpeterherald.com
Tri-City United Girls Track and Field COACHES Head coach: Brian Fogal, fourth-year head coach, seventhyear coaching track Assistant coaches: Tony Barnack, third year; Craig Nordling, third year KEY PLAYERS The Titans return three AllState athletes. Junior Megan Rutt made it to state in both the triple jump and 100-meter high hurdles. “She is also a very good sprinter,” Fogal said. “She will be one of the top athletes in the conference.” Junior Briana Berninghaus made it to state in the long jump. “She is one of the best sprinters in the conference, and I expect her to have a great season,” Fogal said. Junior Kristi Frederick went to state in the 300-meter hurdles. “She is also very strong in 200 and 400,” Fogal said. KEEP YOUR EYE ON Freshman Gabby Robinson broke the school record in the 800 and looks to improve and participate more this year, Fogal said. Eighth-grader Sarah Novak was injured most of last season. She missed going to state in cross country by .04 second. “She will have something to prove if healthy,” Fogal said. “Senior Michaela Wood should do really well in both the shot and disc< Fogal said. She
rd a w e RTODAY? YOU
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The 2015 Tri-City United girls track and field team, grades 9-12. (Dana Melius/Le Center Leader)
made sections in both last year. MOVED ON Edith Martinez, school record holder in both the discus and high jump Sarah Fisher, distance runner who won the mile twice her senior year. 2015 SEASON OUTLOOK “Last year the girls team had
a very solid team,” Fogal said. “We finished second to a very strong Belle Plaine team. We return most of our team from last year. Again this year, Belle Plaine will be the favorite in the conference. I think TCU has a very good chance to push Belle Plaine for the best girls team in the conference. Section favor-
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days, so it will take the team a little longer to get up and running at full strength. The good news is this gives many of our younger and inexperienced athletes extra opportunities.” — Brian Fogal, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 60 — Girls team has more than 60 athletes in 7-12 grades.
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Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 5
Cleveland baseball team forever young By RICHARD ROHLFING
Correspondent
Cleveland Baseball COACHES Head coach: J.J. Helget — Entering 4th year as head coach; 3 years as JH coach at Cleveland/ Le Center Assistant coach: Brian Heller — 4th year as assistant KEY PLAYERS Austin Plonsky — 9th-grade shortstop, two years lettered. With a 90 percent fielding success rate, he was the team’s best defensive player last season and was named co-MVP. Carter Kopet — 9th-grade 3B, CF, pitcher, two years lettered. AllConference Honorable Mention last year, and, with an ERA of .464 and a 2-3 record, also earned the Best Pitcher award. Offensively he had 19 hits in 51 at bats with three doubles and a triple. Kopet ended last year with the Clippers’ best batting average (.373) and had a .500 on-base percentage. He closed out the year with 16 straight innings without giving up an earned run and a 2-0 record in those games. Brandon Seitz — 10th-grade P and CF, three years lettered. He logged the second most innings pitched for the Clippers (25) and second most starts (6). He had the lowest opponent batters average against (.238). Seitz will be asked to be one of our top two arms going into this season. Nick Douglas — 10th-grade 3B and pitcher. All-Conference and co-MVP last year when he had 15 hits in 41 plate appearances with four doubles and one triple with a .422 on-base percentage. KEEP YOUR EYE ON Travis Burt — 10th-grade OF Alec Rogers -11th-grade OF/P, junior, captain. Greg Berry — 10th-grade C, sophomore, captain Mitch McCabe — 9th grade 2B/OF/P Josh Baker — 10th-grade 1B 2015 SEASON OUTLOOK Last season the Clippers were 2-15 (0-8 Valley Conference). The season ended with a 7-2 loss to Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton
With a season playing together and a successful summer league as well, the young Cleveland Clippers have grown up a lot since 2014. (Richard Rohlfing/Le Center Leader)
in the second round of the sec- ence and the section.” – JJ Helget, 12 — The difference in the JWP and the season-finale 7-2 cator of how rapidly the youthful tions. The Clippers edged Alden- head coach point spreads between the Clip- section loss to the same team. The team improved last season and BY THE NUMBERS Conger 2-1 in the first round of pers’ season opening 17-2 loss to dozen-run difference is an indi- points to what’s ahead. the sections. Their other win was against Faribault Academies in the Mankato Loyola tournament. Conference Favorites: Lake Crystal-Wellcome Memorial, Le Center Mankato Loyola, JWP Office: 507-357-6463 Section/Subsection Favorites: New Ulm Cathedral, BOLD, Driveways • Sidewalks Sleepy Eye St. Mary’s Curb & Gutter and Flat Work COMMENTS FROM THE PAUL FACTOR BILL WALZ COACH (507)560-0595 (507)317-6044 We would like to Thank Le Center Residents “Last year was a learning ex& Surrounding Areas Family owned & operated perience for many of our players. for over 45 years! for their Business during the last 15 years! Although we will still be a young Hours: Mon. - Fri. Located Just off Hwy. 99 team, we are looking to continue 8:00 AM Til 5:00 PM & Downtown Le Center to grow as a team and be a comSat. 8:00 AM Til 12:00 PM (507) 357-2248 Anytime by Appointment petitive team within the confer-
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PAGE 6
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
Cleveland softball features five fine hitters By RICHARD ROHLFING
Corrrespondent
Cleveland Softball COACHES Head coach: Dan Fredrickson, third year Assistant coaches: Tom Hobson, Becky Michels KEY PLAYERS Anna Ely — 12th grade, pitcher and 3rd base, three-year letter winner. With a .439 batting average, Ely was statistically best at the plate for the Clippers last season. She also returns as the Defensive Player of the Year. “She is a great team leader and someone you can count on year in and year out,” said Fredrickson. “We will be leaning on Anna to have another solid season this year.” Megan Hobson — 12th grade, centerfield, three-year letter winner. She had the most hits last season (27), scored the most runs (29) and has the single season state record for stolen bases (42). She batted .435 last year and was also an All-Conference Honorable Mention. “Megan is a very special player,” Fredrickson said. “She turns every single into a double with her speed. She is a game changing type player on offense. She really hit the ball with a high consistency all last season. She has grown into one of the best defensive center fielders in our conference.” Cassidy Kopet — 12th grade, pitcher and infield, three-year letter winner, 2013 and 2014 AllConference player and co-offensive player of the year last season. Batting .400 last season she had the most total bases for the Clippers (39) and most RBIs (22). “Cassidy is an excellent hitter,” Fredrickson said. “She hits in the heart of our order and creates a lot offense for us with her bat. She is a team leader who leads by example and is always a very reliable player.” KEEP YOUR EYE ON Holly Gibbs — 11th grade, catcher. She batted .310 as a sophomore. “Holly is our starting catcher and a player who will grow into a
Anna Ely and Lilly Hollerich will provide solid defense for the Clippers between third and second. (Richard Rohfing/Le Center Leader)
leadership position as the season moves forward,” Fredrickson said. “She is a solid hitter, poised for a break out season.” Lily Hollerich — 9th-grade shortstop. She started for the Clippers last year at shortstop as an 8th-grader. She hit .317 and had the team’s most triples last season. “She is a core player coming back for us this season,” Fredrickson said. “She is an outstanding defensive player. Lily will be a difference maker at the plate for us this season. She has a great bat and is an absolute gamer.” Kaleigh McCabe — 11thgrade, played a limited role for the Clippers on varsity last season. “This year she will most likely be a starter for us in the infield,” Fredrickson said. “Kaleigh is a good contact hitter and a player who we think has a bright future.” Amanda Smith — 10th-grade. “Amanda is a very good athlete who plays very fundamentally sound,” Fredrickson said. “She will be a starter for us in left
field this year and a player that will undoubtedly get better as the year goes on.” Penni Jo Brenke — 11thgrade. “Penni Jo will be a starter for us in right field this year,” Fredrickson said. “She has a very strong arm and she tracks fly balls very well in the outfield. Penni has the ability to grow into a very good hitter.” Ellie Stencel — 8th-grade
“Ellie will be a starter for us in the infield this year,” Fredrickson said. “She is already a very good defensive player and she has the ability to mature into an outstanding hitter.” MOVED ON Desi Becker (P), Erika Wobbrock (CF), Megan Gjemse (C, 1B), Taylor Holicky (2B) and Rachel Zimprich (RF) 2015 SEASON OUTLOOK Last year, the Clippers fin-
ished 5th in the conference and 11-7 overall. After beating Sleepy Eye in the first round of the section, the Clippers played the 2014 State Champion New Ulm Cathedral Greyhounds losing 3-1. Then, they made the trip to Mankato’s Caswell fields but fell in the quarterfinals to Lester Prairie/Holy Trinity 11-1. This year the Clippers have a core group of players from last season who they need to replace, including
four starters: Desi Becker, Erika Wobbrock, Rachel Zimprich and Megan Gjemse. “Those players were part of a lot of wins last year for us so a transition needs to take place this year replacing that production,” Fredrickson said. “We will do that by having our five returning starters step up even more and by having a group of new players stepping into the mix as well. We believe that our young players have a bright future. That said, I feel we have a veteran team with very good players at very valuable positions, and I expect success to continue at Cleveland.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “I feel like we will continue to be a very good hitting team. I really believe in our players and the approach they take at the plate. For us this season, our overall success will come down to pitching and playing defense. In Cassidy and Anna we have two veteran pitchers who give us a chance to win any game on any night. The five starters who we return from last year are big-time players who produce big-time numbers.” – Dan Fredrickson, head coach. BY THE NUMBERS 8.4 — The number of runs the Clippers scored per game last season. It was 5th most in their 19-team section. .362 — The batting average of the Clippers’ nine starters from last season. .424 — Last year’s combined batting average of the three seniors on this year’s team: Hobson, Ely and Kopet.
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Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 7
SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW: Mankato Loyola/Cleveland track and field By RICHARD ROHLFING
Correspondent
Loyola/Cleveland Track and Field COACHES Head coach: Dale Compton — 18th year Assistant coaches: Mike Dimler — 30th year; TJ Palasotti — 11th year; Slater Powell — 1st year KEY PLAYERS Matt Archer — 12th grade; 3-year letter winner; throws Katerina Vetter — 11th grade; 4-year letter winner; sprints; middle-distance Landon Javens — 9th grade; 2-year letter winner; distance Kyla Haas — 9th grade; 2-year letter winner; distance KEEP YOUR EYE ON Andy Sharpless — 11th grade; sprints; relays. All-conference 2014 Eaden Javens — 9th grade; middle distance. All-conference 2014 Hunter Westman — 9th grade; sprints; jumps. All-conference honorable mention 2014 MOVED ON Wyatt Elmer (distance), Jordan Phillips (thrower), Sean Thomez (vaulter, hurdler), Carson Seifert (sprints; only state qualifier last season), Justine Compton (sprints, mid-distance) 2015 SEASON OUTLOOK
The 2014 Boys team won the Valley Conference title as well as the Section 2A True Team title. The boys took fifth place at the state class A True Team meet. The Girls team finished fourth in the Valley Conference last year. This season the boys team from Minnesota Valley Lutheran/ New Ulm Cathedral looks to be one of the favorites at the True Team Section meet. Lake CrystalWellcome Memorial/Nicollet is also a team that will be competitive at the True Team as well as in the Conference. On the girls side Blue Earth Area has dominated the True Team section for years and looks to be strong again this season. At the Conference meet look for Martin Country West and LCWM/N to both be battling for the top spot. COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We graduated quite a few athletes from last year’s team but are looking forward to the working with the athletes we have returning. There are a number of new faces this spring that will help fill the void left by last year’s seniors. It’s always exciting to have another track & field season underway.“ – Dale Compton, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 4 — This is the fourth year that Cleveland has paired with Mankato Loyola.
A year stronger and more experienced, senior Matt Archer should be able to rack up some points for the Crusaders from the throwing circles. (Richard Rohlfing/Le Center Leader)
Junior Amy Den Herder is starting her fourth season as a Crusader. (Richard Rohlfing/Le Center Leader)
20 — The number of Cleveland athletes on the team. They are Landon Clark 6, Isaac Mueller 6, Mason Conroy 7, Cooper Thomez 7, Brett Omtvedt 7, Jerrett
Peterson 7, Mitchell Johnstone 7, Chantal Weber 8, Rachel VanAsperen 9, Evan Skinner 9, Payton Remiger 9, Brady Omtvedt 9, Joey Zalusky 10, Brandon Busse 11,
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PAGE 8
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
Giants softball returns as state runner-up By PHILIP WEYHE
pweyhe@lesueurnews-herald.com
Le Sueur-Henderson softball COACHES Head coach: Eric Lewis, 16 years in program. Assistant coaches: Larry Milam, 10 years in program. KEY PLAYERS Carlie Brandt, junior pitcher: Brandt is a four-year letter-winner, a three-time all-conference winner, the 2014 Minnesota River Conference Most Valuable Player, and a four-time all-section winner. She also received an all-state honorable mention in 2013, was named to the 2014 second team all-state and the 2014 Class AA state tournament team. “Offensively she has good speed and good power. As a pitcher she has great velocity, moves the ball around the zone well and changes speeds. I think Carlie’s biggest strength is that she is so competitive. She has an incredible ability to focus in on her goal and give her best effort,” said head coach Eric Lewis. Mandy Doerr, junior centerfielder: Doerr is a two-year letterwinner and was named along with Brandt to the 2014 Class AA state tournament team. “Mandy has improved her game considerably over the last couple of seasons. I believe her play in the state tournament last year is a view of what to expect the next couple of years,” Lewis said. Katherine Cronk, junior rightfielder; Kalie Devine, junior shortstop; and Sam Winter, junior
Carlie Brandt will be looking to lead Giants softball to another state title game in 2015. (Stock Photo)
catcher: “These three girls have said. KEEP YOUR EYE ON improved offensively and defenAlicia Boettcher, freshman sively over the last couple of years. Their knowledge of the game and third baseman: Boettcher won her competitive spirit will help be a first varsity letter as a freshman. “Last year Alicia started as an driving force this season,” Lewis
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eighth-grader. It was a big learn- ress,” Lewis said. MOVED ON ing experience for her. She continued to improve and really helped Audin Bruns and Veronica Reach Reporter Philip Weyhe us through the playoffs. With now Sinell graduated after last year’s at 507-931-8576 or follow him on a year of varsity experience her season. Twitter.com @LNHphilip. game should continue to prog-
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2015 SEASON OUTLOOK Last year the Giants finished 21-6, finished tied for the MRC title, 1st in Section 2AA, 2nd in State Class AA. Lewis’ section favorites are: Belle Plaine, Jordan, St. Peter and Norwood Young America. “I believe that if we continue to work and get better we should be in a position by the end of the year to compete with the best teams,” Lewis said. After a run to the state championship game last season, the Giants will be looking to take it one step further this time around. A junior class loaded with talent will be expected to lead the team to success this year and the next. COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “The core of our team has been together for a few years now, and we have continued to improve and move the program forward. We are very excited about the upcoming season and the prospects ahead,” Lewis said. BY THE NUMBERS 12 — returning letter winners 7 — juniors on the roster: Brandt, Doerr, Cronk, Devine, Winter, Breanna Kroehler and Madison Hartmann 2 — sophomores: Allison Schwarz and Mikayla Reinhardt 2 — freshmen: Acy Adamzak and Alicia Boettcher 2 — eighth-graders: Liz Milam and Kelsey Berndt
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VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 9
Giants track team expects to make strides By PHILIP WEYHE
pweyhe@lesueurnews-herald. com
Le Sueur-Henderson track and field COACHES Head coach: Jeff Christ, specialized in sprints and distance running. Coach: Becky Straub, specializes in hurdles and jumps. Coach: Mark Vrklan, specialized in field throwing. Middle school coach: Ally Beggs. KEY PLAYERS McKayla Stowell, senior sprinter and jumper: Stowell has had success in the short-distance races throughout her track career, and will be pushing for state titles this time around. Stowell qualified for the state track meet the past four seasons, and finished runner-up in both the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes her junior year. She also figures to be a key leader for the girls team, showing how to be successful through her actions in practice and during meets. Alex Haas, senior hurdler and sprinter: Haas also has had success for multiple years in his high school track career and has the potential to step on the podium at the state tournament. He only started hurdling in 10th-grade, and managed to qualify for state both that year and his junior years in both the 110-meter and 300-meter races. Haas will help the lead the boys team with a relaxed attitude, and wants to ensure everyone enjoys
McKayla Stowell will provide leadership to the 2015 LS-H girls track team, while also looking for a place on the podium at the state tournament. (Le Sueur News-Herald file photos)
Alex Haas will provide leadership to the 2015 LS-H boys track team, while also looking for a place on the podium at state.
Abrahamson, thrower: The remaining letter-winning seniors will play a key role in leading still young track teams looking to move up in a difficult Minnesota River Conference. KEEP YOUR EYE ON Gabby Straub, eighth-grade sprinter, hurdler and jumper, Kim Scheffler, ninth-grade sprinter, hurdler, and jumper,
Wiederich, Ethan Dwyer, Julie Ulrich, JP Sosa, Tom Schwarz, Noah Hynes-Marquette and Dan Eckblad all graduated from last year’s team. 2015 Season Outlook In 2014, the boys team finished in fifth place in the MRC and the girls team finished in seventh. Both teams are expecting to move up the standings this year
sprinter, Daniel Felmlee, 10th-grade distance runner, Jose Hernandez, 10th-grade sprinter and pole vaulter, Mason Straub, 10th-grade sprinter, thrower, pole vaulter and jumper, Frank Turek, 10th-grade sprinter, thrower and jumper, Quinn Hynes-Marquette, 11th
A lot of younger runners and throwers return to the team this year with at least one year of varsity experience under their belts. These athletes will play a huge part in the success of the team this year. Both the boys and the girls team will be relying on a crop of athletes to make big strides this year, and earn some valuable
“We are still a fairly young team and will be counting on several underclassmen to carry the load for us this year. We definitely hope to improve and move up in the MRC,” head coach Jeff Christ said. Reach Reporter Philip Weyhe at 507-931-8576 or follow him on Twitter.com @LNHphilip.
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PAGE 10
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
Giants baseball aim for conference title By PHILIP WEYHE
pweyhe@lesueurnews-herald. com
Le Sueur-Henderson baseball COACHES Head coach: Rick Bruns, 5th year as head coach of LS-H baseball, 16 additional years as assistant coach. Jordan Sinell, varsity, 4th year. Brad Schmidt, 3rd year, Mike May, 3rd year, Travis Evenson 1st year, Corey Carlen, 10th year. KEY PLAYERS Jordan Kahlow, senior pitcher and outfielder: “Jordan has started for the varsity since he was a sophomore. He is not only a key player, but a team leader in all facets of the game,” said coach Rick Bruns. “He will be making the switch to OF after being an infielder for the past couple of years.” “Last season, he hit .260 and was 13 for 13 on stolen bases,” Bruns said. “When he gets on base, he’s aggressive and someone who creates singles into doubles by swiping second and putting himself into scoring position. I look for Jordan to be the lead-off hitter this season. On the mound last season, Jordan was 2-2 on the season. He posted 13 strikeouts with 8 walks.” Tyler Kotasek, senior pitcher and infielder: “Tyler is also a 2-year letter winner,” Bruns said. “Last season, Tyler hit .233 for the Giants. On the mound, he was 1-3. As a senior, Tyler is a kid I’m expecting to take the step to the next level. He is a baseball
guy who loves the game. He’ll log some innings on the mound for us, and be an important piece to the puzzle heading into the season.” Cole Pengilly, sophomore shortstop and pitcher. “Cole started last season as a freshman at 2nd base,” Bruns said. “He did not have a single error on the season, fielding a perfect .1000 (53 out of 53) on fielding opportunities. He’ll be making the shift to SS this season. I expect him to be solid there as well.” “He hit .222 on the season, a pretty impressive number with the quality of pitching in the conference and Cole only being a freshman,” Bruns said. “I look for Cole to hit in one of the top spots in the lineup. Cole is a lefthanded hitter who can hit to all sides of the field, and a player who has worked very hard at his game over the years.” KEEP YOUR EYE ON Jacob Beutler, senior lefthanded pitcher: “Jacob is a 1-year letter winner, who we will need to log some innings for us this season,” Bruns said. Alex Borchardt, junior lefthanded pitcher: “Alex is a 6-foot5 pitcher who will also log some innings for the Giants. At the B team level, he had a 1.6 era and was 6-0. He did pitch one game for the V last season and looked good. I expect that trend to continue,” Bruns said. Alex Nelson, senior catcher:
See BASEBALL on 11C Cole Pengilly attempts to turn a double play. (CJ Siewert/Le Sueur News-Herald)
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Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 11
Tyler Kotasek slides safely back to first base on a pickoff attempt. (CJ Siewert/Le Sueur News-Herald)
BASEBALL: Le SueurHenderson baseball coach has high hopes for Giants this season From Page 10C “Alex is a two-year letter winner and a converted catcher who developed really well over the course of the season. As a junior, he stepped into the role and did a nice job. I expect him to grow and develop as well,” Bruns said. MOVED ON “Brady and Bradley Rose. These two were the heart and soul of each team they played on. Bradley, first baseman and pitcher, Brady, third baseman and pitcher were the leaders of the squad last year. Their shoes will have to be filled, and it’s my hope that someone does that. Both are currently at Bethany in Mankato playing basketball,” Bruns said.
OUTLOOK “After a couple of disappointing seasons, I have pretty high expectations this year. The seniors have had an opportunity to play at a very competitive level for 2 years, so they understand what we need to do,” Bruns said. “I think we should be in the upper half of the conference, and a team that I feel will be in contention for a MRC championship. I know this is the goal of a lot of players on this team. NYA and Belle Plaine will be teams that should also be in the upper half,” Bruns said. COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “I’m excited for the season
to get started. We have a squad that is hungry for another MCR Championship, which we last won when the seniors were in 9th grade. I don’t see us as overly deep, but we do have a lot of talent. We need to stay healthy. Last year the big play eluded us. In order for us to reach out goals, we need to make those big plays happen. I feel really good about our pitching depth. There is a lot of talent at the sophomore level. Some will see some time on the varsity if and when we need some help.” — Rick Bruns, head coach. Reach Reporter Philip Weyhe at 507-931-8576 or follow him on Twitter.com @LNHphilip.
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PAGE 12
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
All players return to LSH/Cleveland golf teams By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
Le Sueur-Henderson/Cleveland Golf COACHES Head coach: Cathy Schluter, 15th-year head coach Assistant coaches: Cedric Schluter and Craig Hink KEY PLAYERS Carson Stepka, sophomore, All-Conference and Section qualifier (2 letters) Kelsey Anderson, senior, AllConference and Section qualifier (5 letters) Hannah Allen, sophomore, Honorable Mention all-conference, Section qualifier (3 letters) KEEP YOUR EYE ON Harry Redmann, sophomore, and Alex Wilson, 8th-grader. Both lettered last year and got valuable playing time. Kennedy Straub, senior, 3 letters and the game to be very consistent. Dynamic duo, 8th-grade letter winners Elle Seaver and Kylie Dunning. MOVED ON None on either team 2015 SEASON OUTLOOK “The boys were 8th in the conference,” Schuter said. “This year there are only seven teams, and we hope to finish 4th in the middle of the pack. We are also hoping to three-peat as academic state champions. “The girls were 3rd in the conference, and we should improve on that. Kelsey was third in the conference and with the two girls ahead of her graduated, she is the favorite for the conference. This
should help the girls possibly contend for the championship. “Jordan will be tough in both the conference and section as they lost a few key players, but have a strong core coming back.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “This group both boys and girls has been together for a few years now. They are very supportive of each other. They also enjoy mentoring those new to the sport. Golf is a lifetime sport and you can tell. With the boys I like to say, ‘You MAY beat us on the golf course, but we WILL beat you in the classroom.’ With the girls I like to tell them not to worry about one shot or one hole or one round. There is more to learn from golf than winning.“ – Cathy Schluter, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 5 — great seniors: Sage Grothe, Matthew Bjork, Nolan Bach, Hank Pfarr, and Sam Gerdts. 4 — solid returners: Carson Stepka, Ryan Bach, Harry Redmann, and Alex Wilson 3 — boys that could step up: Zach Nugent, Kyle Tappe, and Cole Bassamore 2 — Minnesota River Conference matches at Le Sueur Country Club (one 9 and the 18-hole championship) 1 — match at a time 8 — returning letter winners 7 — weeks of competition 6 — new girls (three from Cleveland: juniors Stephanie Holicky and Emily Van Asperen, freshman Jenna Zimmerman) 5 — MRC matches (6 nine hole scores, count five)
Le Sueur-Henderson junior Nolan Bach hits a pitch shot to the No. 5 green at Montgomery National Golf Club. (Pat Beck photos/St. Peter Herald)
4 — 8th-graders (solid build 1 — excited seventh-grader for the future) Erin Schultz 3 — leaders: Kelsey, Kennedy, and Millie Froelich Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck 2 — girls that could make a at 931-8566 or follow him on Kelsey Anderson keeps her eyes on the ball chipping up to the difference:Marin Kapsner and Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat. fourth green at Shoreland Country Club. ( Abby Simota
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Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 13
St. Peter baseball team to rely on underclassmen By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
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‘age’ in a hurry, and we can progress and get better as the season goes. With us now joining the Big South, we lose St. James from our half and pick up Worthington and Marshall. Marshall will be the team to beat in the conference along with Fairmont. “In the Section, Glencoe is always tough along with many of the MRC schools. Our goal is to get to the double elimination portion of the section and then go from there.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We are young with a lot of inexperience. But, that can also be a positive. There will be plenty of opportunities for our younger kids to prove themselves. The kids that show EVERY DAY and can show our staff that they want to learn and get better, will have some chances to do show us that they can do. It is going to a fun season in that they will (hopefully) be a lot of learning happening and progressing as a team and as individuals. —Kurt Moelter, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 1 – Number of players with any significant varsity experience. 11 – Juniors and seniors
St. Peter High School Baseball COACHES Head coach: Kurt Moelter, 14th year Assistant coaches: Ryan Myhra, Keith Bense, Jeff Knutson, Justin Helget, Jake Malz, Warren Petersen KEY PLAYERS Sam Wenner (OF/IF) Brett Zallek (C/IF) Shaun Timmerman (OF) “All of our players are ‘key’ players,” Moelter said. “Some might contribute more than others, but they are all key players for us.” KEEP YOUR EYE ON Cullen Bruce Nate Wenner Mitch Johnson “These juniors along with many other underclassmen will have to contribute quite a bit this spring for us to be successful,” Moelter said. MOVED ON Caleb Ebeling, Cody Erickson, Ben Johnson, Ryan Hoehn, Brendan Reese, Nick Rosburg, Tommy Steidler and Cody Thompson 2015 SEASON OUTLOOK Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck “We will be very young this spring,” Moelter said. “Very few at 931-8566 or follow him on of our players have varsity expe- Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat. rience. Hopefully our youth will
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PAGE 14
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
St. Peter girls golf team returns fantastic foursome Bartlett, Amos, Conlon, Bresnahan lead charge for the Saints By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
St. Peter Girls Golf Head Girls Golf Coach: Pat Klubben (7th season) Jr. High/Assistant Coach: Sean Keating (2nd season) LAST YEAR’S RECORD Conference Record 4-1 CoConference Champions (Waseca) Dual Meets 4-3 RETURNING LET TER WINNERS Junior Zoey Bartlett shot a career low of 86 last year vs. New Ulm. She also finished as a top 10 individual in the South Central Conference and place 5th in the Conference tournament. “We look for her to be a consistent mid-90s shooter for us this year,” Klubben said. Sophomore, Anna Amos fell just two strokes short of making the State Tournament last year which should be all the motivation she needs for this year. She shot a career low of 84 last year and recorded her first career holein-one during a home meet with BEA. Anna also finished in the top five in the SCC individually and placed 11th in the conference
tournament. “We look for Anna to play in our No. 1 position and consistently shoot in the low 90s,” Klubben said. Junior Maggie Conlon had a season low round of 99 last year. She also finished at the SCC tournament. “If Maggie can consistently shoot below 100 by the end of the season, I feel our team will be in a great position to make a post season run,” Klubben said. Freshman Miranda Bresnahan was our most improved player last year. In only her second year of golf, she quickly moved up to a consistent scorer on varsity. She placed 13th at the SCC tournament by shooting her best round of the year with a 105. “Miranda has the determination to achieve her personal and team goals as she always works hard in practice and it really paid off last season,” Klubben said. KEEP YOU EYE ON Freshman Kennady Legg, and 8th-graders Amelia Wernsing and Anja Dulin are back from last year. They played mostly in Junior Varsity and Junior High meets last year and will be looked upon to fill varsity spots this year. Other new golfers to the program
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include Freshman Paige Cadriel, 7th-graders Heidi Mayo and Kelsey Helder. Lost to Graduation: None SEASON SOUTLOOK “We return our top 4 varsity players from last year,” Klubben said. “Our depth will be an issue again this year as we have a hard time gaining numbers in the program. Once again it will be very important for us to stay healthy as we will not have a lot of experienced depth. Our biggest goal is to get better as the year goes on and be playing our best golf at the end of the season. “Coming off a South Central Conference Championship last year (co-champions with Waseca) with a 4-1 record, the conference takes on a whole new look as we have merged with the South West Conference to become the Big South Conference. Our Eastern half of the conference will still consist of the old conference opponents so our focus will be to take care of business in our half of the conference as we don’t know a lot about the teams in the other half. Our side of the conference did not lose much in the way of seniors. Several teams lost no se-
niors while New Ulm looks to lose the most as they lose two seniors that were in their top four. “Last year we finished in 2nd place at subsection and qualified as a team for section. Our team finished in 5th place at section and did not qualify any individuals for state competition. This year our goal would be to improve to a 1st place finish is subsection and play well enough at section to qualify as a team for state. I believe that if our team can’t make it to state, that we certainly have a couple of players that have the ability to make it individually.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We hope to build on last years’ performance, I really feel that if these girls make a sincere commitment to the program there is no telling how far they can go” Pat Klubben, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 5 – Teams to beat in our half of the Big South Conference 10 – Practices before our first meet. Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck at 931-8566 or follow him on Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat.
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Anna Amos of St. Peter sends a putt toward the 18th hole last year in the Section at Ridges at Sand Creek in Jordan. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
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Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 15
Inexperienced St. Peter boys golf team drives for trip back to section By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
St. Peter Boys Golf COACHES Head coach: Neil Doose, 7th year Assistant coach: Sean Keating, 2nd year KEY PLAYERS Killian Bixby, 12th, 3 year letter winner, 46.4 9 hole average. Strengths putting and short game. “We are going to lean on Killian for leadership skills for this year’s young, inexperienced team,” Doose said. “He needs to show our younger golfers what a good work ethic looks like and can do for individual golf games.” Carter Doose, 8th, 1 year letter winner, 45.5 9 hole average last year led team in bogeys per 9, 2nd in putts, 1st in fairways hit. Strengths: hitting fairways and putting. “Carter got some big time experience on varsity as a 7th-grader, and we are hoping his game continues to improve,” Doose said. Ben Emley, 12th, 1 year letter winner, 49.7 average last year. Strengths: consistency. “We need Ben to lower his scores into the low to mid 40s per 9 to help this year’s team,” Doose said. Dylan Salisbury, 12th, 1 year letter winner, 50.5 average last year. “We need Dylan to be more
consistent this year and become one of our top 4 golfers,” Doose said. “To do this, he will have to lower his scores on a consistent basis. He has ability to score well and help this team.” Reid Reicks, 10th, 51.5 9 hole average last year. “Reid has to fill some big shoes this spring,” Doose said. “We need to work on his mechanics to become more consistent and to lower his average.” Andrew Olson, 12th, 50.7 average on JV last year. “Andrew has to use the experience he has gained on JV to help this year’s varsity team,” Doose said. “We will need him to score in the 40’s a lot more frequently. KEEP YOUR EYE ON 11th-graders Luke Pehrson, Andrew Baker, 10th-graders Eric Carlson, Joey Wenner, Adam McCabe 9th-graders Kendall Lusty, Blake Makela, Henry Olson, Ethan Klaseus, 8th-grader Brad Boyer 7th-graders Payton Hewitt, Kaiden Schmitz, Bennett DeBlieck, Kyle Johnson, Andy Guimond, Owen Carlson MOVED ON Cole Miller, Riley Wenner, Matt Seitzer, Brennan Kelly, Arick Mayo, Adam Yeske 2015 SEASON OUTLOOK Last year’s record 26-45
5th place in the conference 2nd place in Subsection 4th place in Section 2AA “Section favorites are Mankato East and Albert Lea,” Doose said. “We hope to qualify for sections again which means we have to finish in the top 2 teams in our half of subsection play. We also hope to finish in the top 3 in conference play.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We have a couple of guys with experience returning, but overall we are very inexperienced. Our numbers are good again this year which should help as well. Our JV was 7-0 last year, so hopefully some of those guys can step up and help the team. We need to really spend quality time on the putting greens and range to improve every aspect of our games. The short game is the most important and the kids really have to work hard on that. With the early spring, that should help us improve a lot quicker early in the year. I just hope we are playing our best golf in May when playoffs start.” — Neil Doose, head coach Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck at 931-8566 or follow him on Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat.
St. Peter junior Killian Bixby pitches to the No. 9 green at Ridges at Sand Creek in Jordan. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
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PAGE 16
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
St. Peter boys track to feature young guns
By PAT BECK
Keegan McCabe, state place winner in the hurdles Valtteri Korkiakoski, foreign exchange student helped with relays Ridwan Abdi, pole vault Sam and Will Bennett, jumps and relays 2015 SEASON OUTLOOK “We are a young, thin squad so we will look for individual improvement as the season goes on,” Hanson said. COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “So far the weather has cooperated and we have been able to do some things outside already to help us get a good start to the season. — Keith Hanson, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 5 – Returning letterwinners 9– Freshman on this season squad
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
St. Peter Boys Track and Field COACHES Head coach: Keith Hanson, 17 years Assistant coaches: Erick Boe, Marc Bachman, George Schoenborn, Kris Sandborg, Corey Wiebusch KEY PLAYERS Returning Letterwinners Jackson Keeley, senior, hurdles, pole vault Jacob Gurrola, senior, distance Brady Hanson, junior, throws, sprints Sanguja Hassan, junior, middle distance Gage Hinderschied, sophomore, middle distance, jumps KEEP YOUR EYE ON “We have a good group of freshman who will help fill out Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck some relays and jumps this seaat 931-8566 or follow him on son,” Hanson said. Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat. MOVED ON
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St. Peter junior Jackson Keeley misses this attempt at 10 feet, 7 inches, but cleared it on his next attempt in the Section 2A meet last year at Mankato West.. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
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Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 17
Juniors are the class of St. Peter boys tennis team By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
up, 4-1 in SCC and 2nd. Rothenberger picks the favorites as the same teams in the last eight years: Holy Family, Mound Westonka and St. Peter. “Our success will depend on how well the bottom of our lineup plays; if we can consistently play well at 3 and 4 singles and 2 and 3 doubles, then we will defeat our competition in the BSC and Section 2A,” Rothenberger said. COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “I am looking forward to another fun and successful season with the team. I know the boys tennis players will enjoy their experience on the court and represent their school and community well off the court.” — Aaron Rothenberger, head coach BY THE NUMBERS Lucky Seven — returning starters 11/11 — eleven juniors on the team thus far Three Amigos — captains Bachman, Haugen and More Love — no returning senior starters
St. Peter Boys Tennis COACHES: Head — Aaron Rothenberger, Assistants: Annie Mahoney and Jesse Morgan KEY PLAYERS Zeke Haugen (11) (SCC allconference, state qualifier in doubles); Avery Bachman (11), Joey More (11) (both SCC allconference) KEEP YOUR EYE ON Rafat Solaiman (9), Drew Elofson (9) (Both won several singles matches last year and have started since 7th-grade). Also, Aaron Leeb (11), Kaelan Weiss (11) (both returning doubles starters) Zeke Kyoore (11), Tanner Peterson (11), and Bradyn Klubben (11) (top junior varsity players on last season’s tournament team) MOVED ON Matthew Huber (SCC allconference, state qualifier in doubles and No. 1 singles), Alex Willson and Ben Gault (SCC allconference, 3rd in Section 2A doubles, 26-2 record last year as Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck No. 1 doubles) 2015 SEASON OUTLOOK at 931-8566 or follow him on Last year the Saints finished Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat. 15-5 overall, Section 2A runner-
Zeke Haugen of St. Peter hits a volley in the state Class A doubles tournament with partner Matthew Huber. (File photo)
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PAGE 18
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
Marta Springer (center) of St. Peter reaches the midpoint of the 400-meter run in which she finishes sixth in Section 2A. She qualified for state the previous two years in the event. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
St. Peter girls track to rely on upperclasswomen St. Peter Girls Track and Field Head coach: Jeff Portugue, 16 years Assist. coaches: Kris Sandborg, 4 years; George Schoenborn, 16 years KEY PLAYERS “Key players this season are our upperclassmen,” St. Peter coach Jeff Portugue said. “I really believe that if you have a solid group in the upper grades, you will have a great season. If they work hard the younger kids
will follow their lead.” St. Peter has 15 letter winners: Greta Anderson, Abby Borgmeier, Sara Borgmeier, Halla Dontje Lindell, Nicole Ebeling, Jordan Keeley, Alyssa Lokensgard, Xenia LoredoHollon, Payton Portugue, Katie Schilling, Marta Springer, Teagan Weiss, Ella Wiebusch, Sienna Wiebusch and Xeanna Willaert. School record holders are Marta Springer (4x400 relay), Halla Dontje
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Lindell (triple jumo), Ella Wiebusch and Abby Borgmeier (4x800 relay). MOVED ON Sara Osborne, Chloe Bachman and Alexia Riley 2015 SEASON OUTLOOK St. Peter won the subsection last season and finished finished sixth out of 24 teams in the Section 2A meet and fourth in the conference. “I don’t know much about the new schools in the conference, but
think that Marshall will be the team to beat,” Portugue said. COACH’S COMMENTS “After we figure out how we can use the new athletes in our line up, we might surprise a few teams.“ — Jeff Portugue, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 53 — girls on the roster 15 — returning letter winners 4 — school record holders on the team
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Wednesday, April 1-Thursday, April 2, 2015
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 19
St. Peter girls softball brings experience to the plate By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
St. Peter Saints Softball COACHES Head coach: Heidi Niemeyer, 2nd year as head coach, 15th year coaching softball in St. Peter Assistant coaches: Tom Witty, 39 years coaching with 18 years at SPHS Mollie Meyer, 14 years coaching with 6 years at SPHS Amanda McCabe, 2nd year coaching KEY PLAYERS • Pitchers this year are Mikayla Ogren, Jennifer Bergeson and Autumn Maas. “All three of
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St. Peter catcher Lexi Wilkins takes the throw as Tartans’ Kallie Ritchie scores. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
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