2019 Huron Spring Sports

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FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019

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Hatchets feature youth and experience

BY MIKE GALLAGHER Tribune Sports Writer BAD AXE – After going 7-20 overall and 1-11 in league play last season, the Bad Axe softball team is looking to take a step in the right direction this season under new head coach Greg Newland.

They will attempt to do so with a strong returning core of hitters.

“We should be a team that will improve over the course of the season and be a tough team to play come districts,” Newland said. “We have a nice mix of experienced players with the youthful talent of our younger girls.”

The Hatchets have three key returners on the infield, seniors Morgan Etzel (SS) and Abby Newland (1B), and sophomore Lexie Booms (3B), who all hit at least .350 last season.

“Defensively, I expect out infield to be the strength of our team with four-year starter Morgan Etzel, three-year starter Abby Newland, and second-year starter Lexie Booms joined by freshman Kate Clancy,” Newland said. “We should be strong at catcher with three options, Brandi Krug, Kaleigh Melnik, and Sydney Prill, that I feel comfortable putting any of them behind the plate.”

Last season, Etzel was named first team all-conference, as she sported a .370 batting average, drove in 17 runs and hit three home runs.

From her shortstop position, she held a .856 fielding percentage.

Newland finished her junior season with a .361 batting average, a .597 slugging percentage, three home runs and a .941 fielding percentage.

Booms had the highest batting average out of the three, despite being just a freshman.

She had a .375 batting average, seven runs batted in and nine stolen bases.

“Offensively, we will be strong at the top of the lineup with Booms at leadoff, Etzel in the three hole and Newland at cleanup,” Newland said. “The bottom of the lineup will get stronger as the year progresses, and they gain more confidence and varsity experience.”

Bad Axe will have to replace the production of four key players from last year’s squad, Maddie Jimkoski, Sydney McDonald, Lauren Prill, and top pitcher Parker Guigar.

“In softball, it comes down to pitching and defense,” Newland said. “Our ace is senior Haylee Krug, who has worked hard this offseason after being our No. 2 last year. She has the right demeanor on the mound and will need to be our anchor.”

Krug threw 66.2 innings last season, striking out 29 batters.

Joining Krug in the rotation will be freshman Haley Newland.

“She’s young and will have days where she gets hard, but she’s a competitor and not afraid of the pressure situations,” Newland said.

Lauren Howard will help provide leadership on the infield, as she is one of the four seniors on this year’s Hatchet team.

Other players to watch out for this season include, Laken Rosenthal (OF/2B), Eva Engel (OF), Emily Bucholtz (1B), Brianna Wisenbaugh (OF), Jenna Holdwick (OF) and Marissa Brown (OF).

Bad Axe will be working towards improving their team before league play begins, as the Greater Thumb West looks to be tough yet again, according to Newland.

“The GTC West is one of the toughest conferences to compete in,” Newland said.

See HATCHETS 20

Members of the Bad Axe varsity baseball team are (front row from left) Vinny Blackstock, Ryan Wehner, Caleb Guigar, Jack Fischer (middle row) Connor Janssen, Brandon MacAlpine, Spencer Britt, Nick Errer, Sam Thompson (back row) head coach Bob Breault, Luke Sobczak, Keegan Powell, Michael Erla, Micah Gordon and Ron Johnston. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Bad Axe varsity softball team are (front row from left) Eva Engel, Alexis Booms, Lauren Howard, Laken Rosenthal, Kate Clancy (middle row) Morgan Etzel, Brandi Krug, Haylee Krug, Kaileigh Melnik, Haley Newland, Abby Newland (back row) Emily Bucholtz, Jenna Holdwick, Marissa Brown, Sydney Prill, and Brianna Wisenbaugh. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune) Members of the Bad Axe varsity golf team are (front row from left) Brett Campbell, Clark Wehner, Brady Talaski, Arden Rousseaux (back row) Nick MacAlpine, Sam MacALpine, Tyler Bismack, Colby Meeks and coach Trenton Donakowski. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

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Members of the Bad Axe varsity girls track team are (front row from left) Bailea Kohler, Danielle Cubitt, Esther Ingram, Kara Cummings, Gabriella Beeler, Ellen Ingram, Madelyn Laskowski, Katey Krohn (back row) coach Lee Kahler, coach Kal Pokley, Laken Chapin, Grace VanHoutteghem, Melanie Rogers, Jelena Prescott, Olivia Chapin and coach Theresa Byrne.

(Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Bad Axe varsity boys track team are (front row from left) David Knarian, William Cleland, Nicholas Clarent, Eli Buss, Joe Van Erp, Sam Hass, James Kervin (middle row) Michael Messing, Ethan Kemp, Logan Kociba< Carson Affer, Erik Kemp, Jack Fitzpatrick, Drew Bucholtz (back row) coach Lee Kahler, coach Kal Pokley, Luke Schember, Benjamin Shuart, Toby MacPhee, Djordje Jungie, Jensen Emerick, coach Theresa Byrne and Olivia Chapin. Missing are Alex Castle and Juan Castillion. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Bad Axe varsity girls soccer team are (front row from left) Aryana Peruski, Caitlin Ruth, Dana Weitenberner, Paige McIntyre, Alayna Engler, Madison Kinney, Danielle Cubitt (middle row) Esther Ingram, Camryn Affer, Getsemani Salinas, Elle Weitenberner, Kelsey Mein, Angel Knowlton, Lily Boyle, (back row) manager Hannah Rapson, Sophie Shuart, Karen Suzuki, Jenna Krug, Olivia Britt, Miranda Booms, Josephine Fitzpatrick and Arden Rousseaux. (Mike Gallagher/ Huron Daily Tribune)

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FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019

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Red Hawks poised for big year in baseball tournament,” Stern said. “The league is always full of talented players, and the number of players moving on to CASS CITY — There may be no play at the next level seems to grow baseball roster in the Greater Thumb every year.”

Conference that features more expeIn boys track, veteran coach Jon rience than that of Cass City.

Zdrojewski looks to replace mulNot only do the Red Hawks have tiple-time state qualifier CarLee the numbers, they have the years, as Stimpfel. well.

In Stimpfel’s place will be sophZack Beecher (left field/pitcher) omore Nick McArdle, who will take .373 avg., 25 RBI and Luke Stern over distance duties. (catcher/pitcher) .507 avg., two He will be joined by fellow cross homers, 21 RBI, 33 runs scored are country athletes, junior Drew four-year players, while Kendall Markel, sophomore Brandon WithAnthes (third base/pitcher) .325. erspoon, senior Gabe Farver and avg., 71 strike outs in 49 innings and junior Lucas Swiderski for the midSandyn Cuthrell (shortstop) .408 dle to long distances. Freshman avg. are in their third year on varsity. Hugh Walker will add to the distance Throw in Tristan Swiderski (center squad. field), Collen Wrubel (second base) For the sprint events, Cass City and Kenton Wiseman (third base/ will return seniors Jarod Naegele, pitcher), who all have two years of Ethon Fetterhoff and Zac Brunke. varsity experience, and Cass City They will be joined by sophomore looks poised for a huge season.

Anthony Boscaglia, coming off of a “We have a lot of experience with great freshman season last year and our returning players,” said coach sophomore Dustin Naegele.

Josh Stern. “Many of our players In the hurdles, the Red Hawks have spent their summers playing have returners juniors Kris Nika and baseball.”

Leevy Matthews, they left last seaAlthough the Red Hawks are son beginning to run strong in those experienced, the roster lacks overall events and Zdrojewski looks for them depth. to continue to improve.

“We are hoping to take the next In the throwing events, Cass City step in both the league and state will look for leadership from junior

BY PAUL P. ADAMS Tribune Sports Editor

Logan Boynton as he returns stronger and more eager to perform well.

Jordan Mester is a strong athlete and will be more of a utility athlete for the Red Hawks until Zdrojewski finds his best spot.

“We are generally a younger squad, but with strong numbers we should be more competitive in some larger races where we don’t need to win in order to take points,” said Zdrojewski. “We are in a very competitive conference and I look for us to finish somewhere near the middle of the teams. I have several athletes already setting goals of reaching the state finals in June at Comstock Park. Look for these guys to be strong competitors as the season progresses.”

In girls track, Adam Dorland is in his second season as coach, and has no shortage of numbers or experience.

Dorland welcomes back 14 letterwinners.

“Our team strength is going to be in the distance events, relays and hurdles,” said Dorland. “We have to improve in the mid-distance and field events to have a shot at the league meet. Our group of first year runners and returning letter winners should be able to help us in those areas.”

The Red Hawks have not sent an athlete to the state finals in six years, but Dorland believes that can end this season.

In the distance events, Cass City will feature identical twins Mary and Marla Muter, along with Riley Copeland.

Hailey Schmotzer will handle the hurdling events, while Layna Mathewson will provide plenty of experience.

In the sprinting events, Brittany Hamilton will continue to improve, according to Dorland.

Overall, the Red Hawks have the numbers and experienced athletes to contend for the Greater Thumb West title.

“Reese will be the one of the major favorites to win the league meet again this year,” Dorland said. “Bad Axe also has good track program and will be among the top schools in the league. USA nipped us last year near the end of the year and with Caro coming in to the GTC West, it only gets tougher.

Added Dorland: “We are going to have to work extremely hard if we want to compete with these schools on a meet to meet basis. We are young, but much deeper with better numbers than years past and should improve in the league standings.”

Members of the Cass City varsity baseball team are (front row from left) Kendal Anthes, Kenton Wiseman, Tristan Swiderski, Tyler Czekai and Mallakii Moore (back row) Hadyn Horne, Luke Stern, Sandyn Cuthrell, Landon Schenk, Zack Beecher and Collen Wrubel. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune) Members of the Cass City golf team are (front row from left) Taryn Pisarek, Matt Roth, Mia Wright, Imogen Sanders, Mariah Mellendorf, Jeffrey Mathewson and Quincy Creason (back row) coach Jon Ligrow, Ryan Pisarek, Adam Habicht, Anthony Pawloski, Rees Romain, Alex Swiderski, Quentin Rick and Trevor Warren.

(Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

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FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019

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Members of the Cass City boys track team are (front row from left) Nick McArdle, Iskhak Mamutor, Hugh Walker, Jordan Mester, Zachary Essex, Colby Sutton and Drew Markel (middle row) Brandon Witherspoon, Vaughn Severance, Cameron Kaake, Alex Hooper, Ghazi Shawish, Anthony Boscoglia and Alie Kalokoh (back row) Dylan Halriy, Tyler Asher, Kristofer Nika, Leevy Matthews, Andrew Venema, Shahrom Saidahmadzod, Jacob Shantz, Zachary Brunke and coach Jon Zdrojewski.

Missing are Gabe Farver, Logan Boynton, Ethon Fetterhoff, Dustin Naegele, Jarod Naegele, Justin Schaufele and Lucas Swiderski. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune) Members of the Cass City girls track team are (front row from left) Abby Essex, Laci Anthony, Breanna Wolschlager, Raeven Periso, Janelle Hartwick, Madison Ware, Hannah Gilmore and Riley Copeland (middle row) Autom Sutton, Marla Muter, Mary Muter, Tiana Tageson, Haven Bouverette, Brittany Hamilton, Kristin Stimpfel and Savina Terpe (back row) coach Adam Dorland, Layna Mathewson, Hailey Schmotzer, Harlie Mallon, Sierra Spry, Kendra Schmotzer, Kalee Gray, Madi Beckrow, Tasha Tageson and Marissa Petlprin Ball. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Cass City varsity softball team are (front row from left) Macey White, Brittany Hamilton and Hailey Beckrow (middle row) Abbey Halabis, Tiana Tageson, Abbey Salcido, DeeDee Haley, Brianna Mester and Kacey Haire (back row) head coach John Hacker, Jalene Krol, Dawson Klein, Morgan Russell, Olivia Peters, Madilyn Tschirhart and assistant coach Ken Martin.

(Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

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FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019

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Eagles poised for big season on the diamond was named honorable mention all-conference.

“For us, entering the season we are DECKERVILLE – Despite the fact going to look much different than the that the Deckerville baseball team grad- past few years,” Walker said. “We will uated one of its strongest senior classes be very inexperienced; however, we in recent memory last year, expectations will work very hard to be ready for the are high entering the 2019 season. league season and I believe we should “The team is working hard and the see an incredible amount of improveanticipation for the season is high,” said ment throughout the year.” head coach Todd Walker. “The coaching Walker, who is entering his ninth seastaff has been quite happy with the atti- son, and boasts a 109-86 overall record, tude and work ethic of our leaders and will look to three key returners, Isaac this will hopefully set the tone for a good Keinath, Connor Lamont and Traiten season.”

Colesa to lead his squad this season.

After going 16-4 last season, with “At catcher, Connor Lamont will a 6-2 league record, the Eagles must bring his much-needed varsity expereplace five seniors who were four-year rience from last year to not only lead varsity players. our pitching staff, but also we expect Wyatt Janowiak (.381 batting averhis bat to be a huge asset in the middle age, 21 RBIs), Brendan Kreiner (.464 of the lineup,” Walker said. “We are batting average, .536 slugging percentmost experienced at shortstop, where age, 26 hits), Zack Ostrowski (5-2, 1.23 third-year starter Isaac Keinath should earned run average, 84 strikeouts in 39 be very solid, and while Keinath is on innings) and Kenton Bowerman, were the mound Traiten Colesa will be an all first team all-North Central Thumb extremely solid backup.”

League Stars division last year.

Walker added that Colesa will see Cole Romzek was the fifth senior and time at multiple positions, and Keinath

BY MIKE GALLAGHER Tribune Sports Writer

will lead the pitching staff, and will be one of the top pitchers in the league.

At first base, Richie Oldenburg and Carson Benjey will be fighting for playing time, while at second base, Wyatt Watson looks to take the lead, while Ethan Bowerman will see time there as well.

Derek Dreher and Jeffrey Stone will share time at third base and Dreher, Stone, Watson and Curt Vogel will all see time in the outfield.

Dreher, Colesa, and Stone will follow Keinath in the pitching rotation, while Bowerman, just a freshman, will also see work on the mound.

Walker stated that he expects another tight race in the NCTL Stars Division this year, with Dryden and Kingston being the favorites and North Huron and Mayville also being tough outs.

New players to watch out for this year include, Nick Foote, Ryan Osborne, Lucas Boice, Logan Boice, Jose Abreu and Dylan Smith.

“Overall, there are a lot of question marks for us coming into the season with our youth,” Walker said. “Howev-

er, our team is ready to prove that even though we lost a large amount of talent, our program can sustain the attrition of graduation and compete on a yearly basis with all the top area programs. I am looking forward to seeing how we stack up against the top teams in the league.”

The Deckerville softball team will also have to replace a few senior stars from last season, but also returns a strong group from last season.

“I have a good core of returning players who will be the true leaders of this young team,” said head coach Christi Pavlovics. “We lost many good players from last year and the returning juniors, along with sophomore Kaylynn Kappen will have to step in to fill those voids.”

Pavlovics must replace the production of Madisyn Guza (.579 batting average, 43 runs scored, 20 runs batted in) and Emma Morningstar (.427 batting average, 32 runs scored, 27 runs batted in), along with Liz Binder, Amanda Kosal, Kaylynn Shutz, Julia Flanagan and Cheyanne Nichols.

See EAGLES 7 Members of the Deckerville varsity baseball team are (front row from left) Isaac Keinath, Lucas Boice, Kris Kosal, Connor Lamont, Traiten Colesa, Logan Boice (middle row) head coach Todd Walker, Ryan Osborne, Ethan Bowerman, Wyatt Watson, Curtis Vogel, Carson Benjey (back row) Nick Foote, Dylan Smith, Richie Oldenburg, Josemaria Abreu, Derek Dreher and Jeffrey Stone.

(Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Deckerville varsity softball team are (front row from left) team managers Johanna Kubacki, Shelby Flanagan, Rachel Vogel, Aleyah Keinath (middle row) Tristen Howard, Cassidy Franzel, Breanna Pashak, Karly Kappen, RayAnn Thompson (back row) head coach Christi Pavlovics, Amaya Cortimilia, Kaylyn Kappen, Heaven Valadez, Haileigh Foote, Lauren Flanagan, Addison Williams, Coti Perez and Lindsey Shutz. Missing are Mikeala Warczinski and assistant coach Monica Warczinski. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

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FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019

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Members of the Deckerville boys track team are (front row from left) Brady Fagan, Ben Tanton, Jack Lapp, Kurt Howard, Cole Shutz, Aaron Wilcox, Riley Regentine, Riley Fagan, and Arantes (middle row) coach Wright, Derek Snyder, Victon Ayllon, Brett Tanton, Chase Simkiss, TravisTrigger, Tyler Park, coach Woodard and coach Linn (back row) Luis Cambronero, Brett Dumaw, Luke Asher, Justin Trigger, Ben Hutchinson, Trevor Barker and Richie Barker. (Sharon Rich/For the Tribune)

Members of the Deckerville girls varsity track team are (front row from left) Nya Snyder, Heaven Valadez, Natasha Martinez, Ally Nutzmann, Ana Rojas, Alexa Roberts, Kaylee Wagester, Allison Lapp (middle row) coach Wright, Alyssa Confer, Taryn Kunze, Maegan Garant, Abigail Sanford, Riley Shutz, Ana Kowaski, Morgan Armstead (back row) Taylor Paape, Jenna Park, Samantha Dumire, Emma Beaver, Ella Watson, Claire Watson and coach Steve Linn. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

EAGLES

defense, and this is what helps the Lady Eagles have successful Continued from 6 seasons. At the plate, the team needs to be aggressive, and “The Lady Eagles will have to they need to work on improvfind their own identity this year ing each game to be successwith so many four-year startful.” ing losses due to graduation,” Deckerville returns six Pavlovics said. “Yet, this group players from last year’s squad, is willing to put forth the extra which went 16-9-1 overall and effort to become a successful 4-4 in conference play, includteam.” ing Addison Williams (OF/P), Pavlovics added: “Our team Lauren Flanagan (IF/OF), prides themselves on good Mickaela Warczinsky (UTIL),

Lindsey Shutz (P/OF), Kaylyn Kappen (C), and the team’s lone senior, Haleigh Foote (1B).

Shutz and Williams will be throwing the majority of the innings for Deckerville.

New players to the team include: Coti Perez, Karyly Kappen, Tristan Howard, Cassidy Franzel, Breanna Pashek, Amaya Cortimillia, Rayann Thompson and Heaven Valadez.

Pavlovics, who sports a 260-

225-1 career coaching record, is looking for her squad to compete for a league title this year.

“There are very competitive teams in the NCTL, and the Lady Eagles must be prepared and focused every game in order to be successful and to reach their lofty goal of winning a league championship every year.”

The girls track team, which took home league and regional titles last season, will have to

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replace six seniors, but return four key runners.

Morgan Armstead (distance), Ella Watson (sprints, hurdles), Claire Watson (sprints, high jump) and Riley Shutz (hurdles, sprints) will lead the Eagles this season.

“We are young as well as experienced,” said head coach Steve Linn. “If the new kids come along, we’ll be fine. We have lots of new freshmen and foreign exchange students.”

8

FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019

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Lakers look like contenders across the board

BY PAUL P. ADAMS Tribune Sports Editor PIGEON — Elkton-Pigeon-Bay Port’s baseball team could be on the verge of taking the next step.

The Lakers, who finished 21-12, 6-4, in 2018, have a talented core of players.

That group features the likes of Andrew Siegfried, Ryan Castro, Karson Binder, Adam Legault, Preston Warren and Bryce Sears.

“I feel our defense will be solid, along with our pitching,” said Ron Dubs, who enters his third year as coach. “We have some real hard working guys, with good baseball knowledge.”

Dubs will have to find a way to replace Brennan Wissner, Brady Smith, Taylor Kady and Nick Siegfried, all who played key roles.

The Lakers are slightly inexperienced, as only three players are returning, who saw significant playing time last year.

“I feel we can compete in every game we play,” Dubs said. “We do lack experience from last year, but the guys stepping in, have played a lot of ball and are working hard.”

Dubs added about competing in the Greater Thumb West: “I feel our league is as tough as any around, with Caro coming in this year, it even makes it tougher.

“I’m not sure of any clear-cut favorite, but I know it’s going to be real tough, and if you don’t come to play, you will get beat on any day by anyone in our league.”

In softball, EPBP put together a decent 18-13, 6-4 season, in 2018.

Coach Barry Albrecht had a wealth of experience, as the team features 10 returning players, including six seniors.

“We’re a very experienced team, with good pitching, defense and team speed,” said Albrecht.

Among the key returnees are Abigail Schuette, Greta Elston, Tiffany White and Jaelyn Talaski.

“With the years of experience we have, I am confident we can compete well this year,” Albrecht said. “We play in a talented league, and I believe we have an opportunity this year, to compete for a league championship.

Members of the Elkton-Pigeon-Bay Port varsity baseball team are (front row from left) Preston Warren, Clayton Troup, Andrew Siegfried, Adam LeGault, Bryce Sears and Ethan Guster (back row) Mitchell Richmond, Ryan Castro, Anthony Sheridan, Jayvien Wolschlager and Jax McCabe. Missing is Karson Binder. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Elkton-Pigeon-Bay Port varsity softball team are (front row from left) Kristyn Wurst, Katlin Kady and Abigail Schuette (middle row) Greta Elston, Lanea Rosa, Kyle Bowles and Maddie Wisenbaugh (back row) Tiffany White, Jaelyn Talaski, Emily Guardian and Addison Pasek. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune) Members of the Elkton-Pigeon-Bay Port tennis team are (front row from left) Charity Hundersmarck, Cassie Witherspoon, Channah Lotter and Elsie Hawkins (middle row) Faith Schuyler, DeLaney Guigar, Isabel McCleary and Tia Young (back row) Kristen Harp, Savanna Stroud and coach Brenda Smith.

Missing is Sally Shim.

(Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

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Members of the Elkton-PigeonBay Port track team are (front row from left) Leah Truemner, Leah Irion, Ashley Kuhl, Kaylynn Carr, Abbey Smith, McKenzie Gothro, Joslyn Cociuba and Karly Cunningham (middle row) Samuel Gasta, Haley McArdle, Emma Irion, Jordyn Wisenbaugh, Heather Rooney, Erin McArdle, Marissa Jarson, Greta Thomsen and Jared Chandler (back row) Isiah Sageman, Brendan Adams, Noah Vaughan, Daniel Velasco, Alex Smith, Zac Kretzschmer and Mihayu Kim. (Paul P. Adams/ Huron Daily Tribune) Members of the Elkton-PigeonBay Port soccer team are (front row from left) Lauren Henry, Kaitlin Brown, Madison Krohn, Mandy Arnott, Carla Buchanan, Emma Csanyi and Morgan Langley (middle row) Hannah Helmuth, Alexandria Scaddan, Courtney Kipp, Jeong Won Choi, Vanessa Santos, Ryleigh Tate and Emalee Steinman (back row) coach Becky Krohn, Hannah Penfold, Maya Viers, Hannah Keim, Jacquelyn Good, Savannah Schulz, Halee Robinson, Jadyn Iseler, Jessica Viers and coach Katie Maust. (Paul P. Adams/ Huron Daily Tribune) Members of the Elkton-PigeonBay Port golf team are (front row from left) Christian Fox, Jared Reiter, J.T. Warren and Brady Rosenthal (back row) Maci Main, Andrew Davis, Katy Shetler, Brady Krohn and Jonathan Brown.

(Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

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Pirates loaded with experience in soccer

BY PAUL P. ADAMS Tribune Sports Editor HARBOR BEACH — Harbor Beach’s soccer team is used to being at or near the top of the conference standings.

With nearly a dozen returning athletes, veteran coach Brian Fuller believes the Pirates have the pieces to compete for some hardware.

Among the returnees are Megan Pawlowski, Hallie Essenmacher, Haylie Essenmacher, Makara Kramer and Alicia Booms.

However, the roster features just 16 players, so depth could be an issue.

“We would like to compete for league and district titles,” said Fuller. “We realize that hard work and fortune are necessary, and we need to stay healthy and focused to compete.”

Added Fuller: “The league has a number of young players mixing with veterans, who have had success.”

In track, numbers are up for both boys and girls, as Harbor Beach looks to make some noise in the conference title picture.

On the girls side, Makara Kramer leads the returnees and will slot in with the middle distance and relays.

Hannah Emerick will be steady in the distance, while Makayla Roberts (sprints) and Kayla Klee (sprints) bring plenty of talent and experience.

For the boys, Michael Anderson returns after qualifying for the state meet in the 3,200.

“The team has a positive attitude and great work ethic,” said coach Jim Tamlyn.

“We lost some hard-working seniors that also exhibited great leadership – we will need some younger kids to step up and fill

those leadership roles.

Overall, we are relatively young.”

Added Tamlyn: “We will be as competitive as we can be based on our youth.

Some individuals have set high (very high) individual goals. By all accounts, the league is always strong. There are some great athletes in this conference. I am looking forward to a very competitive season. We will continue to work hard all season and improve each and every day.”

In softball, Kayla Gust takes over as coach, and will try to find a way to improve upon a 4-21, 1-9 record from a season ago.

Gust has a pair of returning players, in Katrina Gentner, who batted .358 and senior Jessica Weber, who hit .344.

“We are a young team that is very coachable and committed to building upon the fundamentals of the game,” said

Gust. “We have a strong “team-oriented” mindset, players are dedicated to putting the team first regardless of their individual roles.”

Overall, the Pirates are young, as they don’t have a junior varsity team.

Harbor Beach may not be quite ready to compete for a league championship, but improve on the 1-9 record from last year is a priority for Gust.

“The teams within our league are well rounded and will be tough competition,” she said. “To be competitive in the league, we will have to be resilient. Players (and coaches) will have to follow the steps necessary to prepare for the season which is quickly approaching. The girls have been working hard in practice, and are eager to play. I believe we will have an exciting season.”

See PIRATES 11

Members of the Harbor Beach girls soccer team are (front row from left) Hallie Essenmacher, Paige Wolschleger, Megan Pawlowski, Alicia Booms, Haylie Essenmacher (middle row) Madison Roggenbuck, Amy Zarek, Brooklyn Karg, Kirsten Stein, Debra Hoppe, Emily Bucholtz (back row) coach Pfaff, Makara Kramer, Brenna Bischer, Annika Kirsch, Tristen Lloyd, Teagan Messing, and head coach Brian Fuller. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Harbor Beach softball team are (front row from left) Amber Pleiness, Layne London, Jenna Reinke, Taryn Arntz, Kenzie Knoblock, Olivia Klaski, Shelby Woodward, Rachael Schelke (back row) assistant coach Joe Terwillegar, Madelyn Geiger, Maya Pfaff, Leandra Wolschleger, Jenna Guza, Jessica Weber, Katrina Gentner, Jennifer Heckroth, Chelsea Brown and head coach Kayla Gust. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

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FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019

11

Members of the Harbor Beach track team are (front row from left) Paige Anderson, Valentine Herman, Hannah Emerick, Makayla Roberts, Kayla Klee, Sarah Lu, Makara Kramer (middle row) Alex Boltiador, Tyler Masterson, Dakota Deer, Santiago Aristizabal, Elliot Siemen, Gabriel Kociba, Matthew Farmer (back row) coach Debbie Anderson, Matthew Halifax, Gabriel Del Rosario, Seanluke Bender, Michael Anderson, Isaiah Learman, Griffin Emerick, Nathan Siemen, Luke Bulgrien, Ethan Woodke, Xavier Iseler and coach Jim Tamlyn. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune) Members of the Harbor Beach baseball team are (front row from left) Caleb Hunter, Adam Booms, Dylan Kadar, Ross Arntz, Luke Woodke, Sean Hessling (back row) Cody J. Brown, Garrison Booms, Evan Smaglinski, Parker Jahn, Mason Jahn and Devin Finkel.

(Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Harbor Beach golf team are (from left) Dylan Burton, coach Dan Gonzales, Teresa Razo and Gavin Iseler. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

PIRATES Continued from 1B In golf, Harbor Beach is low on numbers, featuring just three golfers.

Dylan Burton is the lone returnee.

“The kids have great determination to work hard and improve,” said coach Dan Gonza-

les.

Added Gonzales: “Due to lack of participation, this year, we will not be able to score as a team, but Dylan Burton, Gavin Iseler and Teresa Razo will all play for individual recognition.”

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Experience a key for N. Huron baseball

BY PAUL P. ADAMS Tribune Sports Editor KINDE — Experience should be a key for the North Huron baseball team.

There is a core of seven players that veteran coach Richard Wilson

will lean on.

John Hoody, Ty Knoblock, Codey Kozfkay, Austin Majeski, Brad Hoody and Joe Weiss will lead a team that went 13-7, 5-3, a season ago.

“We have some hitters and some athletic players, who understand the game, along with a couple of decent

pitchers,” said Wilson.

Overall pitching depth could be an issue for the Warriors.

“You can never have enough pitching,” Wilson said.

Wilson hopes to have North Huron in the mix for a league championship.

“If all goes well, we should be competitive,” he said. “In our division, Dryden, Deckerville and Kingston will field good teams.”

Wilson also pointed to Mayville and newcomer to the league Genesee as teams to watch.

See N. HURON 13 Members of the North Huron varsity baseball team are (front row from left) Conner Sutliff, Adam Gorkowski, Landon Jimkoski, John Hoody, Jordan Wahl, Brad Hoody, coach Richard Wilson (back row) Dylan Koehn, Codey Kozfkay, Will Case, Ty Knoblock, Austin Majeski, Joe Weiss and Noah Koth. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

e

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Members of the North Huron varsity softball team are (front row from left) Madi Koroleski, Karrigan Schipinski, Mollie Zaleski, Jaclyn Braun, Hannah Mills, Liz Trudeau, Cheyanne Hoody, Ellie Bender (back row) Rainy Byrne, Paige Koroleski, Patricia Pineau, Jaclyn Pitts, Brooke Gordon, Laci Wolschleger, Emma Trudeau, coach Ashley Wisneski and assistant coach Sarah Wrubel. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

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Members of the North Huron track team are (front row from left) Shelby Knoblock, Lucy Wiley, Tegan Kozlowski, Sierra Schumacher, Ellie Bender, Brooke Gordon (back row) Blake King, Ty Woodke, Maxwell Iseler, De’Andre Morris, Grace Wiley, Kylee Richmond and coach Chad Knoblock. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the North Huron golf team are (front row from left) Dylan Whelan, Brayden Schipinski, Jaclyn Braun, Lexi Bogart, Robby Iseler, Christian Brown (back row) coach Richard Peterson, Dylan Koehn, James Pineau, Ty Knoblock, Codey Kozfkay, Cody Parks and Isaac Upthegrove. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

N. HURON

However, there is a lot of talent in those 12.

Continued from 12 On the boys side, the Warriors lost a pair of state qualifying pole In track, North Huron will be deal- vaulters in Andrew Pechette and Ben ing with low numbers, with only 12 Zaleski. total athletes (four boys, eight girls).

This season, De’Andre Morris

should be a solid contributor, as he qualified for the state cross country finals, in the fall.

For the girls, Grace Wiley and Lucy Wiley will provide points in the pole vault.

“Our numbers will have a huge

impact on our season,” said coach Chad Knoblock. “Our goal is to get out there and rack up some personal bests, with the hope that some of those times and distances will send some of our athletes to the state meet in June.”

14

FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019

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Eagles hoping for repeat in softball

BY PAUL P. ADAMS Tribune Sports Editor CASEVILLE — Last season, the Caseville softball team put it all together, to capture the North Central Thumb League Stripes championship.

The Eagles finished a perfect 8-0 in division play.

If the team is going to repeat, it will have to do so with some young players, according to coach Ken Ewald.

“This year’s team is extremely young, however, they are showing a lot of growth and potential,” said

Ewald.

Caseville features a big roster, with 18 total players.

Ewald tabbed Kaylin Ewald (pitcher), Natalie Campis (catcher), Dezi Breismiester (outfield), Chelsey Breismister (shortstop), Emma Hopkins (third) and Adrian Ewald (pitch-

er/second) as players to watch.

Ewald believes staying focused on fundamentals, and bringing a positive attitude will lead to a successful season for the Eagles.

“We need to stay mentally tough and have no communication breakdowns on the field,” he said.

Members of the Caseville varsity softball team are (front row from left) Emma Hopkins, Natalie Campis, Dezera Breismiester, Kaylin Ewald, Alissa Logsdon (middle row) Jessica Nugent, Nicole Dufty, Tyonna Outiveros, Adrian Ewald, Chelsey Breismiester, assistant coach John Atwell (back row) Ashlee Guigar, Katelyn McCormick, Chentel Hill, Paige Samborski, Isabelle Baker and head coach Ken Ewald. (Mike Gallagher/ Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Caseville varsity track team are (front row from left) Chance Shippey Kenzie Maust, Rylee Martin, Matthew Kennedy (back row) head coach Dru Leppek, Andrew Bond, Pinkney Barrios, Brodey Miller, Garrett Miller and Jacob Speare. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Caseville varsity baseball team are (front row from left) Chance Shippey, Tristan Brenner, Steven Wilkins (back row) Matthew Kennedy, Jacob Speare, Jacob Kennedy and Ronnie Ballard. Missing are Charles Witherspoon and Shyann Kubont. (Mike Gallagher/Huron Daily Tribune)

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OWENDALE-GAGETOWN

Members of the Owendale-Gagetown softball team are (front row from left) Amber Haldane and Libby Ondrajka (middle row) Jessica Partaka, Cristal Crandall, Kaitlyn LaCroix, Allison Haldane, Dagon LaCroix and Madelyn Haldane (back row) assistant coach Alyssa Briolat, Katriana Curtoys, Monee Schember, Aaliyah Gonzales, Cydnee Waske, Carlee Rievert, Carley Haldane, Megan Fritz and head coach Bob Haldane. (Julie Warack/For the Tribune)

Members of the Owendale-Gagetown baseball team are (front row from left) Branden Fritz, Casey Baker, Andrew Partaka, Cordell Clarkson and Matthew Fritz (back row) coach Steve Riske, Clay Evans, Brandon Binder, Boyd Evans and Seth Waske. (Julie Warack/For the Tribune)

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Bearcats look to continue dominance in softball

BY PAUL P. ADAMS Tribune Sports Editor

UBLY — For the better part of the last decade, Greater Thumb East softball teams have used Ubly as the measuring stick.

Last season, the Bearcats rolled through the league, with a perfect 10-0 record, while finishing 25-8 overall.

They also won their seventh straight district championship, advancing to the regional title game.

Veteran coach Courtney Dekoski has plenty of reason to believe her team can repeat that success.

Dekoski welcomes back nine players, including both of her starting pitchers and an experienced catcher.

Sadie Souva and Katelyn Sweeney will handle duties in the circle, while Bethany Gronowicz will provide a steady presence behind the plate.

“Our biggest strength would be our experience on the mound,” said Dekoski. “Sadie and Katelyn have been sharing duties for two years now, and they have done a phenomenal job.”

Added Dekoski: “Bethany Gronowicz has been our go-to catcher for these pitchers, and has become a vocal leader on the team.”

Dekoski will be tasked with breaking in a new outfield, though.

“We have some new faces playing

in the outfield,” she said. “They have been working hard, but lack the varsity game experience.”

Once again, the GTE looks to run through Ubly.

“For that to happen, it is important that we not take any team for granted, and show up ready to play from the first inning,” Dekoski said. “We are optimistic about the upcoming season.”

In baseball, Ubly turned in a respectable 19-11 overall record and finished 7-3 in the league, while winning a district championship.

Jim Becker, who is in his 20th season as coach for the Bearcats, has four key players set to return.

Casey Sweeney leads the group, and will see action at pitcher, shortstop and outfield. He hit .364 from the leadoff spot, as season ago.

Tyler Jones will return at first and hit .318.

Also returning up the middle, is Ethan Lemke at second, while Ryche Roggenbuck turned in a 6-1 record, with a 1.36 ERA on the mound.

Ubly did lost a pair of outstanding players, though, in Ryan Sweeney and Anthony Sweeney.

“We have some speed, and will need to utilize it in order to be successful,” said Becker. “I think defensively, we will be pretty solid.”

The Bearcats will have some sophomores looking to make an impact.

Sophomores Andrew Becker, Nolan Van Erp and Carson Heleski will all settle into starting roles.

All saw varsity time as freshmen.

“Those guys were solid down the home stretch, and contributed greatly to the district championship,” Becker said.

Becker is hopeful the sophomores can take on bigger roles, as the team attempts to compete for league and district championships.

“We want to be competitive,” he said. “I like the group we have. But we will need consistency out of our guys. We are not overpowering on the mound, or at the plate, but we have quality kids, and hopefully we can do the things necessary to compete for a league title and in the postseason.”

In girls track, numbers are a bit low, but the Bearcats do feature former state champion Haili Gusa.

As a sophomore, Gusa won the 800 title, and is a multiple state qualifier both in track and cross country.

Last season, she dealt with injuries, but is injury free for 2019, and looking to recapture her crown in the 800.

Other key athletes include: juniors Isle Roggebuck, Andrea Grifka and Jaclyn Toth. Underclassmen expecting to play a big role are Dejnae Leipprandt and Alexiss Guigar.

“This is a rebuilding year, but with hard work and commitment we expect to be competitive,” said coach Pat Bolda.

In boys track, Ubly won the GTE championship, but the team will have a much different look in 2019 Gone are state champion Alex Grifka, along with Nicholas Swanson and Andrew Gilbert.

Grika won the 1,600 state title last season, while Swanson and Gilbert were also solid contributors.

First-year coach Moses Garner has Joshua Brandel, Prestin Hallock, Zachary Garner, Levi Peruski and Ethan Sabin set to return.

The Bearcats should be strong in sprinting, middle distance and hurdles.

However, they do not have a discus thrower , and lack overall depth in the field events.

“The boys have been working hard at practice, and I’m confident they will grow as the season goes on,” said Garner.

In golf, Ubly has just two returning golfers, with Eli Emming and Blake Badger.

“We’re young with multiple underclassmen, with great work ethics,” said fifth-year coach Dave Hanson.

“I believe we will compete and get better every week. Hopefully, we can improve enough to compete for a league title.”

Members of the Ubly varsity softball team are (front row from left) Mikaela VanErp, McKenzie Stomack, Kelsey Knoblock, Emily Winkel-Fritz, Cheyenne Porzondek and Shelby May (back row) coach Stone, Samantha Souva, Bethany Gornowicz, Katelyn Sweeney, Sadie Souva, Natalie Pallas and coach Courtney Dekoski. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Ubly golf team are (front row from left) Jaiden Schulte, Nathan Particka and Nicholas Wright (back row) Blake Badger, Eli Emming, Zachary Ziehm, Isaac Warczinsky and coach David Hanson. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

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Members of the Ubly track team are (front row from left) Alyson Benson, Lily Kieliszewski, Andrea Grifka, Madison Michalaski and Jaelyn Toth (middle row) Hunter Faber, Matthew Brandel, Isle Roggenbuck, Dajane Leipprandt, Alexiss Guigar, Haili Gusa, Ethan Sabins and Theron Harris (back row) boys coach Moses Garner, Prestin Hallock, Josh Brandel, Zachary Garner, Levi Peruski, Logan Mueller, Ethan Gillig, Cole Hagen, Colin Oberski, Dylan Hagen and girls coach Pat Bolda. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Ubly varsity baseball team are (front row from left) Dawson Schumacher, Bryce Essenmacher, Nolan VanErp, Ethan Lemke, Ryche Roggenbuck, Casey Sweeney, Tyler Jones and Andrew Becker (back row) coach Daniel Tuper, Griffin Peruski, Kyle Sweeney, Logan Hulburt, Carter Hughes, Ethan Smalley, Austin Cregeur, coach Lucas Rothe and coach Jim Becker. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

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USA teams hope for more deep runs

BY MIKE GALLAGHER Tribune Sports Writer SEBEWAING – Last year, for the first time in the storied program histories of both the softball and baseball teams at Unionville-Sebewaing Area, both of the Patriots squads found themselves in the state semifinals.

The softball team finished the season with a 31-9 record, which included a 9-1 conference record.

Its season came to an end in the state semifinals, as they fell to Centreville.

For the baseball team, its regular season didn’t quite go as expected, as they went 16-15, finishing fourth in the Greater Thumb West Conference.

Once the postseason kicked off however, the Patriots hit their stride, making their way all the way to the state finals, the first time in program history, where they lost to Beal City.

This season, both teams have similar goals in sight, but will have to replace a good deal of talent from last year’s squads.

“We hope to be playing as deep into June as possible,” said softball head coach Isaiah Gainforth. “I see us being very competitive in the league this year and I think multiple teams will be greatly improved.”

The major piece that USA must replace is Katie Englehardt.

Englehardt finished the 2018 season with a .492 batting average, 63 hits and 62 runs batted in, along with six home runs.

She was also the team’s No. 1 pitcher, as she threw 140.1 innings, finishing with a 20-5 record, a 2.19 earned run average and 183 strikeouts.

“We have three pitchers who all bring something to the table,” Gainforth said. “We will rely on pitchers who have pitched but haven’t logged a lot of innings at the varsity level.”

Leading the staff will be sophomore Brynn Polega, who went 7-1 last season, threw 54.2 innings and struck out 58 batters.

Joining her will be Grace Williamson, who had a 4-3 record and 46 strikeouts in 39.2 innings pitched, and freshman Laci Harris.

Offensively, the Patriots will need to have their players take over the roles of Lauren Adam, who was the table setter for the USA offense, and Bri Osantowske, who delivered power for the Patriot lineup.

Adam finished last season with a .377 average, 52 hits, 54 runs, and 30 stolen bases in 30 attempts.

Osantowske had a .375 batting average, 45 hits, 45 runs batted in, and five home runs.

“We have a lot of players coming back this season who played a lot of innings last year for us,” Gainforth said. “We have a lineup that will put the ball in play and should put a lot of pressure on the defense.”

Shortstop Rylee Zimmer returns for her final season, after batting .445 last season, which included 57 hits, 53 runs scored, 41 runs batted in and 11 triples.

Catcher Maci Montgomery burst onto the softball scene last season as a freshman, playing all 40 games, batting .492, collecting 61 hits, 36 runs batted in and 11 doubles.

Delanie Pavlichek, who became a household name after her grand slam in the state quarterfinals last season, returns as well, and she finished last season with a .380 batting average, 30 hits and 25 runs batted in.

See USA 19

Members of the Unionville-Sebewaing Area varsity softball team are (front row from left) Nichole Schember, Rylee Zimmer and Delanie Pavlichek (middle row) Grace Williamson, Macy Reinhardt, Maci Montgomery and Brynn Polega (back row) Bailey Sy, Chelsea Bolzman, Carissa Dinsmoore, Danielle Harper and Laci Harris. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Unionville-Sebewaing Area varsity baseball team are (front row from left) Nic Lutz, Rocky Hahn, Evan Goslin, Cruz Fernandez, Braden Carter, Caden Finkbeiner and Chase Payne (back row) Joshua Eurich, Keegan Bixman, Jalen Gangler, Cody Babcock, Zach Soper, Jeremiah Hahn and Tyler Osantowske. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

Members of the Unionville-Sebewaing Area soccer team are (front row from left) Samantha Barriger, Alexis Kilburn, Teagan Valentine and Katie Hahn (middle row) Allyson Harrison, Jayden Gaeth, Emilee Steely, Emma Trischler, Hailey Eremia, Gwen Hahn and Lexi Shepherd (back row) assistant coach Aaron Kuhl, assistant coach Kathy Trischler, Lydia Kilburn, Kaitlyn Liken, Brooke Kolar, Ashlyn LaPratt, Hannah Cryderman, Lean Urban and head coach Kevin Kuhl. Missing are Mira Baker, Jordyn Cooper, Emma Greenfield, Paige Hudson and Lexi Kuhl. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

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FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019

19

Members of the Unionville-Sebewaing Area track team are (front row from left) Elizabeth Aleksink, Kilee Lintner, Isabella Mammel, Hannah Cryderman, Grace Williamson, Ashlyn LaPratt, Allison Eimers and Hailey Eremia (middle row) Tyler Aleksink, Nicholas Kilburn, Ty Pavlichek, Luca Pappalardo, Chase Suber, Isaac Oh, Matthew Harrison, Bentley Alderson, Ethan Engelhardt, Walker Foley, Noah Crumm, James Burgett, Tristan VanHove and Alex Sella (back row) coach Mike Peter, coach Sarah Rievert, Bennett Weber, Jacob Selden Justin Hunt, Adam Maust, Jacob Nimtz, Etzhan Umarou, Braylon Ballard, Ethan Liken, Bryce Langmaid, Garrison Dyer, Sam Koch and coach Adam Gennrich. Missing is coach Randy Carpenter. (Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune) Members of the UnionvilleSebewaing Area clay target team are (front row from left) TJ Bermia, Hunter Hines, Landen Eremia, Leah Urban, Haleigh Holdwick, Devin King, Draper Holland and Hunter Wolf (back row) assistant coach Guy Hill, head coach Aaron Holdwick, team manager Season Holdwick, Austin Dufty, Avery Kuhl, Nick Ewald, Evan Volz, RSO coach Doug Elston and assistant coach Fred Deming.

(Paul P. Adams/Huron Daily Tribune)

USA

season, accounted for 209.2 of the Patriots 224 innings pitched.

Continued from 18 Braden Carter, who threw 12 innings, returns this season, along with Landin Senior Nichole Schember returns for Zimmer, who only threw 1.1 innings. her senior season, and will add valuable Head coach Tyler Bader, who earned experience to the Patriots infield, as she Michigan High School Baseball Coaches played 39 games last season, and finAssociation Division 4 Coach of the Year ished with a .286 batting average. honors last season, will look to Carter, Other players to watch for this season Nash Morton, Josh Eurich and Keegan include Carissa Dinsmoore, Danielle Bixman to fill in on the mound.

Harper, Bailey Sy, Chelsea Bolzman and Offensively, USA returns three key freshman Macy Reinhardt. bats, that will be leaned on to produce.

The USA baseball team meanwhile, As a sophomore, Zimmer played in 23 had four seniors from last year move on games, batting .388 in 67 at-bats, colto play at the college level. lecting 26 hits.

Devin Riskey (P, Cleary), Brendan Jalen Gangler (RF, DH) and Nic Lutz Prime (P, Mott), Myles Geiger (3B, Oliv- (1B) are the other two bats. et), and Cooper Kauffold (C, Alma) were Gangler posted a .352 batting averkey cogs on last year’s squad, along with age, which included eight doubles and fellow senior Hunter Bohn (P, SS).

23 runs batted in, while Lutz finished Last season, Riskey, Prime, and Bohn, with a .269 average and 15 runs batted along with senior Isaiah Williamson and in.

Tyler Heckroth, who is not playing this Carter played 36 games last season

and had a .263 batting average.

There will be plenty of new faces to help the Patriots along this season as well, including Cody Babcock, Evan Goslin, Cade Rierson, Jeremiah Hahn, Zach Soper, Caden Finkbeiner, Cruz Fernandez, Chase Payne, Rocky Hahn and Tyler Osentoski.

After going 9-7 overall and 2-6 in league play last season, the USA girls soccer team is looking to compete in league play this season.

“Our goals this year are to be better than last year,” said head coach Kevin Kuhl. “We want to at least split with our league teams while doing well outside of our league. Last year we did well outside our league, but our league was very strong, and we did not fare well.”

The Patriots return 13 letter winners from last season and have 21 players on the roster.

Leading the returning letter winners is senior captain Alexis Kilburn, a

three-time all-conference selection, who finished last season with 10 goals, two assists and 64 defensive stops.

“We will be a very young team again this year with 10 sophomores and only three seniors,” Kuhl said. “There will be a lot of holes to fill from last year and some quick learning curves to handle.”

In girls track, the team does not feature great numbers, but it does have one of the best athletes in the area, in sophomore Grace Williamson.

As a freshman, Williamson burst onto the scene, establishing herself as the top sprinter and high jumper in the Thumb.

She won Athlete of the Meet honors at the Huron Daily Tribune Meet of Champions and Thumb Meet of Champions.

Williamson won regional titles in the 200 and high jump and saved her best for the state meet.

At the finals, she was state runner-up in both the 200 (25.58) and high jump (5-2).

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The Team.Biz

20

Spring Sports Preview

FRIDAY, APRIL 12, 2019

michigansthumb.com Members of the Bad Axe varsity tennis team are (front row from left) Katey Krohn, Aritsara Sawetsuttipan, Rylee Janssen, Subin Seo, Bethanie Engel, Madison Kociba, Jailyn Campbell, Jordan Reinhart (middle row) Zoe Howard, Ashley Dennis, Isadora Augusto, Alyssia Gucwa, Megan Miller, Megan Booms, Amanda Nugent (back row) coach Mark Prescott, Adriana Prill, Jelena Prescott, Kyla Gilbert, Anna Trhlikova, Lucia Butragweno, Meadow Glass and coach Michael Cowles. (Mike Gallagher/ Huron Daily Tribune)

HATCHETS

Errer, who was a second team all-conference player and Ben Continued from 2 McVey, an honorable mention all-conference player, “There is not an easy team but return Vinny Blackstock, to play, top to bottom. USA Spencer Britt, Michael Erla, continues to be the gold stanJack Fischer, Micah Gordon, dard, Reese will be tough, Caleb Guigar, Keegan Powell, along with Caro and Cass Sam Thompson and Ryan City, and Lakers still has their Wehner. core players who won a dis“I believe Cass City is the trict two years ago. It should team to beat this year,” Breault be an exciting season for the said. “As usual though, the Thumb.” league will be very competitive The Hatchet baseball team and if you don’t come to play, is also returning a solid group anyone can beat anyone.” of players, and after finishing Both the girls and boys track the 2018 season on a strong teams are anticipating big note, knocking off Caro in the seasons after finishing second districts, they are hoping to and third respectively in their carry that momentum into the conference.

2019 campaign.

The girls team features ‘We will be a very young, but 14 athletes, including two experienced team,” said head seniors, five juniors, three coach Bob Breault. “We have sophomores and four freshseveral interchangeable playmen. ers and depth at all positions.”

“The girls team lost an Bad Axe went 6-20 overall excellent athlete from last and 0-10 in conference play year’s team, Emma Cubitt, last season but return nine who was our team captain players that will see playing and one of our main scoring time this season. athletes,” said head coach Lee The Hatchets lose Jason Kahler, who is entering his

42nd year as head coach and 55th overall. “The girls that we will be counting on this year will have a big job to make our team as good as last year.”

Kahler will look to senior Gabby Beeler (sprints, long jump, relays), juniors Jelena Prescott (distance), Laken Chapin (long jump, sprints), and Melanie Rogers (shot, discus) and sophomore Danielle Cubitt (sprints, high jump) to lead this year’s squad.

“We feel we have one of the best distance runners in Jelena Prescott in the area,” Kahler said. “She was a state qualifier in cross country and a top finisher at the state meet. Adding to that is Maddie Laskowski, who is also an excellent distance runner, so it gives us very good depth in these events.”

Kahler expects sophomores Esther Ingram and Katey Krohn, along with first-year runners Kara Cummings and Grace Vanhoutteghem to be key to the team’s success this year as well.

“The league this year will

be a very tough competition,” Kahler said. “Reese will probably dominate the league again this year, however, we do have an opportunity to finish second in the league with our main big performers.”

The boys track team features 21 athletes, and a good blend of youth and experience, as the team is made up of 10 upperclassmen and 11 underclassmen.

“Our real strong area this year will be in distances races and in some of the sprint races as well as the pole vault,” Kahler said. “We also this year will have some young, but real good sprinters.”

Captains James Kervin (high jump, 400m) and David Knarian (distance, relays) will be the key point earners for the Hatchets this season, while Logan Kociba (pole vault) and Ethan Kent (middle distance, long jump) will also be important to the team’s success.

In the sprints, the Hatchets will be led by sophomores Jensen Emerick, Carson Affer and Jack Fitzpatrick, junior

Eli Buss and senior Juan Castillon.

“We feel that we will do better this year in the league and regional because of an overall larger number on the team and stronger individuals,” Kahler said. “We have a chance to finish anywhere from first to fourth in this year in the league.”

The Bad Axe girls tennis team will have to replace all four singles players from last season, but have quite a bit of depth returning players.

Jailyn Campbell, Rylee Jansen, Adriana Prill, Jordan Reinhart, Megan Booms, Katey Krohn, Kyla Gilbert and Meadow Glass all return from last year’s team, which went 4-5 overall.

Booms and Krohn will step into the high singles positioning.

“I expect us to be tough to beat by the end of the season, due to our youth,” said head coach Mark Prescott. “Also, there will be a lot of competition for spots within our team.”

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