BY ANTHONY FIUZA Sentinel sports editor afiuza@lewistownsentinel. com
LEWISTOWN — In 2025 the Mifflin County baseball team brings back plenty of varsity athletes from a year ago and returning to lead the Huskies is head coach Ray Hoppel.
Mifflin County was a playoff club last season, but Hoppel believes there’s more to be desired.
“I feel like we left something on the field last year. The way our season ended definitely left a sour taste. However, this is going to be a drastically different team in terms of the names you will be seeing in the box score. But my expectations of them are not different - compete to the best of their ability and do not back down from anyone,” Hoppel noted.
Despite all the new faces, Mifflin County does return several players from the 2024 squad.
“Aidan Attivo, Jayden Smith, Madden Weaver, Aidan Arnold, Tye Plank, Logan Alexander, and Grady Hoppel all saw some valuable innings for us last year, and will be looked upon for their experience,” Hoppel added.
“We have a very talented junior class that will be stepping up to the varsity level this year and will be asked to contribute a lot. Last year’s team was very senior-heavy. This year’s group is the opposite.”
Hoppel wants his Huskies
MIFFLIN COUNTY BASEBALL
play on in Capouillez Field.
What is Hoppel looking forward to regarding the new field?
“At this point, just being on it. The timelines have shifted so many times, and delays in the construction have popped up from seemingly every direction that seniors who were planning on being on a new field may never see it. I am just hoping that we get the opportunity to showcase these improvements to our field to our fans this season,” Hoppel said during an interview in early March.
According to a Sentinel report published on March 24, Mifflin County superintendent Vance Varner doesn’t expect the Husky baseball home opener to occur at Capouillez Field on April 4.
Even with a new field coming, the Huskies may not take long to adjust to it.
to battle as much as possible during the spring season.
“My expectations are that we compete every pitch and attempt to win every inning. If we can do that, the wins will take care of themselves,” the Huskies coach explained.
The Huskies were 14-7 overall last season and were Mid-Penn Commonwealth Co-Champs and District 6
Class 6A Champs.
Assistant coaches for the Huskies are Brett Leister, Matt Shoemaker, Bailey Hetrick, Dan Kochenderfer, Jeff Kanagy, Josh Nichols, Dean Diernbach and Dave Quay.
Tough foes in the conference this year include Central Dauphin, Cedar Cliff, and Cumberland Valley.
“And now Mechanics-
burg, who was 20-4 last year, is coming into our division. It’s a brutal schedule, and we will need to play extremely well in order to match our success from last season,” Hoppel said. What can fans expect from the Huskies this season?
“They will see a team that plays hard. I feel like we have good pitching depth
and a solid defense, which will allow us to stay in every ballgame we play. If we can continue to progress with the bats, I feel like we will be okay,” Hoppel voiced.
In the near future the Huskies will have a new field to
“I personally do not think there will be a large adjustment. Most of our players have played on turf before, and tend to like the fact that the bounces in the infield are true and not so erratic as we had with our previous surface. It will definitely benefit us from a practice perspective, especially on days when the weather is not cooperative. We may have the opportunity to be outside when in most years, the rain would have forced us into the gym,” Hoppel added.
Sentinel photo by MSP STUDIOS
MIFFLIN COUNTY SOFTBALL
Husky softball ready for better results in 2025 season
BY MINA PHILLIPS
Sports correspondent sports@lewistownsentinel. com
LEWISTOWN — The Mifflin County softball team is ready to swing into action this season.
The Huskies—led by head coach Craig Weston — are trying to build on an 11-7 campaign from a season ago.
The softball team at Mifflin County has high hopes this season because they will have a brand new field to play on. This new field is an advantage to the team in many ways. Weston explained, “The biggest impact will be being able to play on it when the weather does not cooperate.”
According to a Sentinel report on March 24, Weston expects his team to play on the new field (First Quality Field) the first week of April. MC softball is scheduled to play against DuBois in their home opener on April 4.
Weston has two main goals for his team this season.
“No. 1 is to work hard everyday to get better and No. 2 is to be the best team player that they can be.”
The Huskies are working
ery game better than the last, and make it an exciting and productive season.
Mifflin County had several notable wins last season including a 15-8 win over Altoona in the district playoffs, a 4-3 win over Bald Eagle and a doubleheader sweep over Red Land on May 9.
From April 24 through May 3, the Huskies won five straight games.
Huskies returning for the softball season include, Ava Baker, Riley Hine, Piper Specht, Carly Dickson, Malaina Maxwell, Falynn Reinard, Jalee Bodtorf, Mya Felmlee, Layla Osman, Macy Pietzsch and Lexi Trutt.
With a lot of experience coming back, the Huskies are hoping that leads to a winning formula once more.
The Huskies travel to play Altoona on April 1.
hard in practice to freshen up their skills and practice their communication. Their
biggest focus point in practice this season has been working together to “play as a team,” Weston added. The Huskies are excited for the season and with the
advantage of a brand new field, they hope to be the best they can be, make ev-
Sentinel photo by MSP STUDIOS
MIFFLIN COUNTY TENNIS
Mazur, Breneman return to guide Husky tennis team
BY ANTHONY FIUZA
Sentinel sports editor afiuza@lewistownsentinel. com
LEWISTOWN — Heading into the new tennis season, the Huskies are eyeing better results on the courts.
“We can continue to improve on consistency, endurance, and strategy. Where to place the ball, anticipating our returns, as well as body control are all things we will continue to improve,” Huskies head coach Jeff Mazurek said.
Key returnees are Landon Mazur, Logan Breneman, Luke Foltz, Hudson Sellers, and Morgan Crader.
“They have all played varsity level and will be expected to do so this year.
Newcomer Aidan Newlen is playing No. 1 singles and learned the game quicky, worked hard with Coach Fisher in the offseason.
Newcomer Reese Hine is on No. 1 doubles with newcomer Brice Rishel who did play
two years ago. These three make a huge difference for us,” Mazurek added.
What are the Huskies’ expectations for 2025?
“We expect to be competitive, secure several wins both regular season but also at districts and at the MidPenn tournament,” Mazurek stated.
Noah Fisher is the Huskies’ lone assistant coach.
We have gotten off to a 2-1 record (this season) with wins over Gettysburg and CD East with a loss to State College.
“We play tough teams like Hershey, Lower Dauphin, Central Dauphin, Cumberland Valley, and
Palmyra. Teams we look forward to playing because we are more evenly matched include Chambersburg, Red Land, CD East and Northern York,” Mazurek added.
Fans of the Huskies can expect the club to battle more on the courts after a strong offseason.
“The Huskies’ tennis team will be more competitive than last season. Between the newcomers who have worked hard in the offseason with our experienced players, there will be several great matches to watch,” Mazurek added.
Sentinel photo by MSP STUDIOS
MIFFLIN COUNTY BOYS LACROSSE
Huskies’ boys lacrosse club building strong foundation
BY MINA PHILLIPS Sports correspondent sports@lewistownsentinel. com
LEWISTOWN — The Mifflin County boys lacrosse team is feeling hopeful as they begin their new season. The team this year is led by head coach Brett Rogers and assisted by Jim McCarter, Jeff Brytczuk, and Eathan Warner. The team is entering this season ready to give it their all, in hopes of outdoing the previous season’s 5-13 record.
The Huskies have been working in more than mandatory team practices to prepare for this season and the hardships it may bring.
Rogers spoke on how he hopes the team will improve this season, saying “because we are a new sport in this area, we will improve at every facet of the game this season by building our ranks and absorbing all the opportunities/experience from our summer open fields, winter open gyms, travel leagues and our intramural programs aimed at middle and junior high aged area youth.”
Every coach has hopes and aspirations for their team as a whole as well as moments they are excited for themselves as the coach.
Rogers explained what he is most excited for this season.
“As a coach, I’m looking forward to seeing how our offseason work prepared us for this upcoming season. Similarly, a lot of our players put in a lot of time in the offseason and I’m looking forward to them feeling their improvement in our matchups this season.”
MC boys lacrosse fans are in for a treat this season as they are working hard to make every game better than the last, making for an exciting season for fans to watch.
The MC boys visit Cedar Cliff on March 27. Then, they host Mechanicsburg on April 3.
“Lacrosse is a very fast and aggressive game, so our fans can expect to see a lot of aggressive, agile play at every position on the field. Lacrosse is a contact sport, and our players enjoy the competitiveness of it. Our fans can expect constant excitement,” Rogers said as he explained what everyone can look forward to while following the season.
Sentinel photo by MSP STUDIOS -
JUNIATA SOFTBALL
Juniata softball eyes another title run during new season
BY KENNY VARNER
Sports correspondent
MIFFLINTOWN — The last two seasons have been historical ones for the Juniata softball team as they finished as state runner-ups.
This season, the Lady Indians are hoping to continue that run into a third year and they have many returners that helped them make such a juggernaut in that timeframe.
Leading the team once again will be head coach Craig Bubb. He will be assisted by Jack McCurdy, Jordan Shirey, Olivia Frey and we have a new addition this year, Stevie Miller from Altoona Area (Bald Eagle Area grad).
The Indians came off a run the veteran coach was quite proud of.
“We were 25-3 last season, 25-4 the previous season, so it was quite a two-year run with a combined 50-7 record,” said Bubb.
However, Juniata lost a lot of talent
from last season in Liz Gaisior and Alexea Frontz.
“We lost Liz Gaisior and Alexea Frontz who were both first team allstate and TVL first team all-conference as well as D6 All-Stars,” said Bubb. “We lost Shalelyn Armstrong (second team league all-conference) and Alexa Kuhn who had the memorable walk-off hit in the 11th inning that kept our season alive in the district semifinals against Central Cambria.”
Bubb and company return nine players from last year’s squad.
“We return nine players that had meaningful playing time,” added Bubb. “They are Regan Lowrey, Victoria Moore, Savannah Marshall, Sophie Smith, Ashley Piper, Ava Lauver, Riley Lyter, Addie Rutherford, Kalynn Brown and Destiny Yohn.”
The veteran coach has a large list of players who he will be looking to
See Indians/ Page 10
Sentinel photo by MIKE GOSS
Pictured is the Juniata softball team, front row, from left, Hope Kehler, Riley Lyter, Sophia Smith, Kalynn Brown, Addison Rutherford, Ava Lauver, Ashley Piper.
BY KENNY VARNER Sports correspondent
MIFFLINTOWN — The two-time District 6 Class 3A runner-up Juniata baseball team is hoping to make another run at the title tilt.
Once again, the Indians will be led by head coach Ty Treaster who has been able to get his team into the championship both year’s under his watch.
He will be assisted this year by coaches Danny Wert, Dominic Kirchoff, Benji Treaster, Randy Treaster, Aaron Geedey and Kenny Cavanaugh.
Coming off a 9-10 campaign “Big Red” lost some veterans off their team due to graduation. They were Grant Reinhold, Mason Nipple, Wyatt Stoner, Brandon Snyder and Jerret Condo.
Returning letterwinners for this season will be Carson Kepner, Gage Harlon, Drew Geedey, Cam Bargo, and Daylyn Kennedy, Treaster has two players specifically he will be looking for to lead the team.
See Baseball/ Page 13
Sentinel photo by MIKE GOSS
Pictured is the Juniata baseball team, front row, from left, Camden Bargo, Connor Bruce, Carson Kepner, Gage Harlon, John Peck.
Second row, Quentin Houtz, Jack Greenholt, Calvin Decker, Caleb Auker, Drew Geedey, Bryce Harlon.
EAST JUNIATA TRACK
Pictured is the East Juniata boys track team, front row, from left, Ayden Dowling, Evan Hubley, Jonah Hess, Hudson Rickenbaugh, Linus Neumann, A.J. Rohlf.
Second row, Wesley Ehrisman, Ryan Mitchell, Davis Hart, Cody Nipple, Chase Fisher, Cohen Apple. Third row, Coy Kerstetter, Thaddaeus Auker, Shay Brininger, Kyler Holcombe, Christian Meter, Chase Kerstetter, Jayden McKnight.
Search
Continued from Page 12
an 84-68 decision in its opener on April 9. Their average margin of defeat was 74.3 points.
Towsey hopes a larger roster – with more than 20 girls out this spring will translate on the scoreboard.
“We have more young ladies out than we have had in many years,” she said. “The girls team now has the numbers to potentially be competitive.”
Seniors on the Tigers’ roster this spring include Addyson Feltman, who is expected to compete in the hurdles and sprints; Annu Fusta, sprints; Naomi Leitzel, throws; and Rachel Zeiders, distances.
The juniors include Hayden Cook in the throws; Carolyn Dressler, middle distances; Adelie Fisher, throws; Lily Goodling,
throws and distances; Natalie Hoffman, sprints; Makaylyn Peters, middle distances; and Laylah Reichenbach, uncertain for events.
The sophomores on the roster are Hannah Book, who will compete in the running events; Addison Eby, throws; and Emma Mattern, sprints.
Out for the first time are freshmen Briahna Brubaker; Morgan Ehrisman; Drue Hoffman, sprints; Addison Phillips; Haven Smith; Kentley Stroup, throws; Kolby Stroup, throws; Cali Wagner; and Hannah Zeiders, throws.
Towsey admits she isn’t certain in what events some of the newcomers are best suited to compete.
Greenwood dominated the girls side as well, going 5-0, followed by Susquenita and Millersburg. At 2-3 in the league, Juniata finished fourth with Saint Joe’s fifth and the Tigers in sixth.
At the TVL meet, the Tigers almost caught fifth-place St. Joe’s, finishing up three points behind
them in the team standings.
Youth can be a strength for numbers yet a weakness for results.
“Having several young athletes, especially in the field, it will take time to teach them their events,” Towsey said. “We have lost a couple of high-potential sophomores due to injury and other factors.
“While our numbers have been steadily increasing, we lack depth overall,” Towsey added. “One or two injuries can have a serious impact on the team performance.
One of the bright spots for East Juniata last year was in the 100-meter hurdles where Riley Apple ran a 16.00. Apple is not competing this spring.
Towsey expects the same perennial powers to be at the top of the standings this season, too.
“I think we will be competitive with all the teams in the TVL, if we can stay healthy and injury free,” Towsey said.
Baseball
Continued from Page 11
“I will be looking for leadership from seniors Carson Kepner and Gage Harlon,” said Treaster.
Treaster believes that he will not only look to his veteran players for playing time but he might have some new faces that will be battling for some valuable playing time this season.
“We have several underclassmen battling for playing time,” said Treaster. “There will be a couple of freshmen working for time as well.”
The Indians’ coach sees his team’s strength as the ability to adjust to any situation.
“Strengths will be having versatile players and some solid arms to get us through games,” added Treaster. “We have exciting underclassmen talent ready to step into positions.” He sees his team’s possible weakness coming from the plate.
“Our weaknesses are getting our offense going,” said Treaster.
The goals are simple ones for the team that will be looking to continue to make another postseason run.
“The goals are always a winning season, a shot at TVL, and compete for the D6 championship if given the opportunity,” said Treaster.
The Indians look to have four teams that will be the toughest coming from the TVL.
“Toughest teams will be Halifax, Upper Dauphin, Susquenita, Newport,” added Treaster.
East Juniata track
District 4 Class 2A Last year: Boys 3-4, 2-3 Tri-Valley League; Girls 0-7, 0-5 TVL.
Coaches: head coach Johnna Towsey, fifth year; assistant coaches Simon Cameron and Wade Gans; and volunteer assistants Cory Benner, Bobbi Kerstetter and Cara Leitzel.
Coach: Ty Treaster
Juniata baseball
Assistants: Coaches Danny Wert, Dominic Kirchoff, Benji Treaster, Randy Treaster, Aaron Geedey, Kenny Cavanaugh.
League: Tri-Valley League 2024 record: 9-10 record last year
Sentinel photo by MIKE GOSS
EAST JUNIATA SOFTBALL
Wes Diehl brings experience to East Juniata softball
BY GREG WILLIAMS Sentinel reporter gwilliams@lewistownsentinel. com
COCOLAMUS – For openers, the East Juniata Tigers definitely made a statement.
The Tigers scorched Lewisburg, of the Heartland Athletic Conference, 15-0 in three innings on March 19. East Juniata was one year removed from a fairly successful 11-10 campaign.
The Tigers also finished second in the Tri-Valley League West Division, which was dominated by rival Juniata. At 9-7 in league play, East Juniata fell six games behind the Indians in the standings.
This spring brings a new year and a new outlook, starting with first-year head coach Wes Diehl.
Against Lewisburg, junior Madison Snyder and senior Marley Wilson each knocked in three runs as the Tigers rolled in their non-league opener.
East Juniata (1-0) had five extra-base hits in the victory and pounded out 11 hits.
Snyder was a one-person wrecking crew as she doubled, tripled and scored three times, while Wilson batted 2-for-2 with a double, triple and three runs scored.
Senior Ryley Dressler went 3-for-3 with a double and three runs scored and sophomore Rebecca Hoover hit 2-for-3 with a double and two runs scored and senior Alicia Spade doubled and scored twice. Wilson scattered four hits.
One game certainly does not make a season, but it shows some seismic potential for the Tigers.
East Juniata certainly has the experience to ascend to the top with four senior starters in Dressler at third base, Wilson pitching, Spade in left field and
Kennedy Yoder at second base.
“Three of the four have started since ninth grade as varsity players,” Diehl said. “So, my team has experienced leadership. But the bond the girls have among each other I believe is the true strength of the team. The relationships they have created over the years with themselves as well as some underclassmen have proven to benefit the entire team. Our pitching is strong as well.”
While Juniata’s Elizabeth Gaisior was the TVL’s strikeout queen last year with 224 K’s in 83 innings. Wilson put together some sparkling numbers as well, fanning 68 batters in 77 innings. That ranked third in the TVL’s strikeout leaders. Snyder was second in both earned run average at 0.78 and walks plus hits per inning pitched (WHIP) at 0.83 in 18 innings pitched.
Wilson ranked third with six wins, while Snyder was fifth with three.
For their efforts, Dressler was named a third-team TVL All-Star, while now-departed senior Annika Martin was on the second team along with Snyder. At the plate, Dressler hit .510, which ranked sixth in the TVL. Her 26 hits were second as were her 30 RBIs. Martin led the league with 34 runs scored.
Offensively, the Tigers averaged 8.7 runs per game in the TVL and 8.5 overall. Hitting is one of Diehl’s concerns for the upcoming campaign.
“Some of the younger starters still struggle at the plate,” Diehl explained. “The pitching we faced in our first game against Lewisburg was not strong pitching. We took advantage of the strikes we got with some strong hits and extra base hits as well but we have not faced consistent strong pitching yet since the season is still young.”
Still, the Tigers sharpened their claws and banged out plenty of offense in the three innings.
One of those budding stars is Hoover, who is a stalwart behind the plate.
The remainder of the Tigers’ starting lineup are juniors, with Landyn Cramer at first base, Kennedy Seigler-Lewis in center field and Ellie Yoder in right field. Snyder can play shortstop when she doesn’t pitch.
“Marley Wilson is a solid pitcher,” Diehl added. “Madi Snyder is strong on defense and solid in batting as well. We have speed on the bases in Kennedy Seigler Lewis and Alicia Spade. Madison Snyder is also strong on the mound. The overall attitude of my team is good. Very coachable and respectful.”
Rounding out the roster are sophomores Kylee Burd and Jordana Stefan and freshmen Liza Hommel, Riley Naylor and Cora Woleslagle.
Susquenita is the reigning champion in the TVL East, with Upper Dauphin expected to challenge and Line Mountain and Halifax rounding out the division.
In the West, Juniata had a rough debut in the post-Gaisior era. East Juniata and Newport look to close the gap and end the Indians’ run. Greenwood looks to improve from last year where the two combined to go 3-13. Saint Joe’s, which did not field a team this spring, was winless in 16 TVL outings.
“The TVL in the years I have coached has always consisted of teams like Line Mountain, Upper Dauphin or Susquenita as being teams to beat,” Diehl said.
“I expect that to be the case this season as well,” Diehl added. “I honestly have no idea what to expect out of where we will finish. I have high hopes as
Sentinel photo by MIKE GOSS Pictured is the East Juniata softball, front row, from left, Eliza Hammel, Kennedy Seigler-Lewis, Ellie Yoder, Madison Snyder, Coach Wes Diehl. Second row, Coach Neal Wolf, Ryley Dressler, Marley Wilson, Kennedy Yoder, Alicia Spade.
MOUNT UNION SOFTBALL
Trojans return seven letterwinners
BY DENNY SROKA Sports correspondent
MOUNT UNION — The Mount Union softball team came into practice this season and had a solid foundation to work from. Eight players from the Trojans’ 14-player roster participated in summer travel ball and diligently prepared during the offseason for the 2025 Inter-County Conference East campaign.
The Trojans’ roster is well-balanced with a strong sophomore presence for the future. The Trojans have three seniors, four juniors and seven sophomores on the roster.
“We have 14 players and left the freshmen on the junior high roster to gain playing time and experience,” stated Trojans head coach Dennis Drake. “Last season we brought up freshmen and by the end of the season I could see that by them staying on the junior high roster they would gain more experience on the field.”
Drake is starting his second season leading the Trojans’ program, finishing the season with a 10-11 record and they
See Return / Page 21
Sentinel photo by BOB HOCKENBROCK
Pictured is the Mt. Union softball team, back row, from left, Olivia Morgan, Aubrey Baker, Kaylynn Wharton, Syd-
Front row, Andreya Simmons, Kara Benson, Reagan Yocum, Isabella Yocum, Sayde Wise, Haley Atherton.
MIDD-WEST TRACK
Mustangs adding focus to relays in 2025
BY MINA PHILLIPS Sports correspondent sports@lewistownsentinel. com
MIDDLEBURG— The Midd-West track and field team is warming up for yet another competitive season.
This year the team is led by head coach Jason Gemberling and assistant coaches Chelsey Beaver and Tom Williams.
With every new season, it is always a main goal to try to improve from the previous year.
“Every year we just ask the kids on our team to keep giving us their best effort each day at practice. We have decent numbers for both the boys and girls teams and hope to see great results as the year goes,” Gemberling explained.
Midd-West has been working hard at practice to condition their bodies and minds in the right way, to prepare for whatever the season may bring.
“Some main focus points have been finding the right kids for our relays and getting our kids into events that we feel they can see their most potential. After that it will be seeing the kids work toward their goals,” Gemberling shared.
Midd-West is excited to get to work and give it their
all. The family, friends, and fans of the team should get excited for the season because the kids are ready to put in the work to make this a season to remember.
“We hope fans will see
and appreciate the hard work the kids have put in all season. Our kids have seen success by putting in great effort and we hope for them to show that again this season,” Gemberling added.
Sentinel photo by BOB HOCKENBROCK
Pictured is the Midd-West girls track team, front row, from left, Emma Williams, Nittany Weaver, Kaydin Bingaman,
Seibel, Maya Zechman, Bella
MIDD-WEST TRACK
photo by BOB HOCKENBROCK
Pictured is the Midd-West boys track team, front row, from left, Ben Hummel, Will Stover, Jasher Wolf, Wyatt Nelson, Graydon VanHorn, Joseph Gable.
Second row, Konnor Kullman, Jake Sellers, Noah Wagner, James Devine, Sam Hostetler, Gannon Treaster. Third row, Weston Shultz, Aiden Rose, Landon Reid, Manasseh Prinsloo, Parker Eppley, Grant Boop. Fourth row, Owen Swartz, Gavin Gelnett, Ben Delong, Jayden White, Ian Hall, Quentin Hartley. Fifth row, Nick Hummel, D’Angelo Drumheller, Wyatt Portzline, Wyatt Sherman, Gabe Dively, Aiden Parker. Sixth row, Graham Yount, Lane Yount, Grant Yount, Nathon Straub, Connor Stoltzfus.
Midd-West track & field
Tough
Continued from Page 14
Offensively, Bonnell led the TVL with 28 RBIs and finished second with 24 hits and third in the league in batting with a .500 average. He was voted as a second-team TVL All-Star.
The Tigers will have to fill the shoes of seniors Kolten Martin, who earned first-team TVL All-Star honors, and Clark Ritzman. That duo finished among the league leaders in many offensive and pitching categories.
Martin led Tiger hurlers with 56 strikeouts, which was fourth among league leaders, eighth with three wins and 10th in walks plus hits per inning pitched (WHIP) at 0.83 in 31 2/3 innings pitched.
The versatile Weges can pitch, catch and play shortstop, while Price could find himself pitching or playing second or third base or shortstop.
Carolus also could play second or third as well as pitch or catch, and Messimer also pitches and can play third or center field.
Bonnell is also versatile as he can play first or third base, shortstop or even pitch.
Senior Jonny Dubiel is vying for time in either left or right field, while freshmen Evett Campbell, Kaden Pannebaker and Kamden Price can do the same.
Barge could also use junior Remington Shirk and Shearer behind the plate. Shirk also can
play right field, and Shearer could find himself in center.
Barge also could turn to the arm of junior Hunter Shafferman, who can also play second or third base, or freshman Meyer Ramsey, who is also a second or third baseman.
Rounding out the Tigers’ roster are sophomore Ian Druckenmiller, a first baseman, and sophomore Camden Feltman, a second baseman.
Barge hopes having a year under his belt will help him in his second year at the helm. “Helped coach various teams in the past,” he said. “But this is my second year coaching at EJ.”
Barge takes a lot of pride being back at his alma mater. He played football, basketball and baseball for the Tigers.
East Juniata baseball
District 4 Class 2A
Last year: 7-12, 5-11 Tri-Valley League.
Coaches: head coach Mark Barge, second year; Mike Weges, assistant coach; and Bob Price and Chantz Crissman, volunteer coaches.
Sentinel
MIDD-WEST BASEBALL
Mustang baseball swings for more wins on the diamond
BY MINA PHILLIPS
Sports correspondent sports@lewistownsentinel. com
MIDDLEBURG — The Midd-West baseball team is ready to hit this season out of the park.
This year’s team is coached by Keith Kline and he is assisted by Jason Walter, Ben Miller, and Trent Smeltz.
This is Kline’s first year coaching Mustangs. He and the team are looking forward to seeing what the new leadership will bring as a whole.
This year’s varsity team is made up of 15 students. Three seniors who will be working to make their senior year their best year to date, six juniors, two sophomores, and four freshmen. There are an additional 14 underclassmen who will make up this Midd West JV
baseball team this season.
“I am a first year coach with high expectations,” Kline said.
The Mustangs will have to work hard this season and start strong to outdo their previous record of 8-11.
Midd-West visits Warrior Run on March 28.
On March 31, Midd-West heads to Montoursville.
The Mustangs also battle Milton, Danville, Central Columbia, Greenwood and Mount Carmel.
Midd-West hosts Selinsgrove on May 12.
Gavin Maust, Nolan Erikson,
Matthews, Xavier Fuller, Isaiah Osgood, Brady Master, Braxton Smith. Back row, Ian Erdley, Ryder Hornberger, Colton Aumiller, Kaden Walter, Levi
Kyle Shupp, Andrew Snook.
18 of 63 at the plate for a .286 batting average.
Continued from Page 17
were 5-3 in the ICC East Division. The Trojans reached the PIAA District 6 playoffs last season but were eliminated in the first round by the top-seed West Shamokin.
The Trojans’ assistant coaches include Kassandra Wilson, Natalee Buckley, Jason Harris, and Taylor Trego. Tom Bilger will lead the junior high along with Jake Coffman and Jess Scott.
Senior letterwinner Maddie Dimoff is expected to be a team leader working at first base and plays a solid defensive game.
Senior letterwinner Callie Trego has worked hard in the offseason on her hitting and plays solid in the outfield going
Reagan Yocum is a senior letterwinner that went 20-for67 last season for a .299 batting average. Yocum plays anywhere in the infield and will see duty on the mound this season as well.
Ke’ Wible is a junior letter winner that is an all-around athlete. Wible can play in any position and will lead the Trojans pitching rotation. Wible had 24 hits on 61 plate appearances for a .393 batting average last season.
Sydnee Harris is a junior letterwinner that is a strong athlete that can move around the infield as well as play the outfield. Harris has speed on the base paths and had 18 hits on 67 at-bats for a .269 batting average last spring.
Payton Williams is a sopho-
more letterwinner that also has speed on the base paths. Williams will pitch and she had 17 hits on 56 at-bats for a .304 batting average last season.
Bella Yocum, a sophomore letterwinner, will take over the catching duties this season and saw limited plate appearances last season.
A player to watch this season is Sayde Wise. She is a junior that has been playing travel ball and came back out for high school ball this season.
The Trojans pitching should be strong with Wible giving up 86 hits in 63 innings with 43 walks. Williams pitched 50 innings allowing 75 hits with 47 strikeouts and 27 walks. The Trojans will also pitch Reagan Yocum and with these three on the mound they should have a solid core.
“The girls came into prac-
tice, and it is early, but they all seemed to have improved through offseason work,” said Drake.
“Our team goals are much the same,” added Drake. “We want to win the ICC East to get to the ICC playoffs and do well at the district level to get back into the PIAA State Tournament.”
“In the ICC the Claysburg team always has good pitching and Southern Huntingdon also always has a good team,” added Drake.
The Trojans had a couple scrimmages starting with Penns Valley before they opened the regular season on the road at McConnellsburg. Their home opener will be March 27 against Juniata Valley in an inter-divisional contest.
Sentinel photo by BOB HOCKENBROCK
Pictured is the Midd-West baseball team, front row, from left, Jesse Rahm, Landon Hartman, Jayden Rivera, Maverick Smith, Connor Riches, Blayze Cummins, Daniel Foreman, Haven Bridge, Derek Wert. Middle row,
Derek Keister, Alex Trojan, David Davidson, Jackson Wray, Prospero
Snyder, Noah Wert, Weston Kuhns,
MIDD-WEST SOFTBALL
Midd-West wants to remain sharp with Spriggle at the helm
BY MINA PHILLIPS
Sports correspondent sports@lewistownsentinel.com
MIDDLEBURG — The Midd-West softball team is ready to hit the ground running as they begin their season. The team is coached by head coach Tabatha Spriggle and assisted by Alisha Kurtz and Brad Wilt. They also have the help of volunteer coaches Shawn Dorman, Bree Solomon, Marlo Spriggle, Brad Mitch and Storm Wilt.
The team lost five starting seniors last year that helped with the impressive 16-7 record. The Mustangs will have to work hard to continue to see success.
“Graduating five starting seniors last year is a big challenge, but our team is ready to step up. Our players have been putting in the work during the offseason, focusing on improving skills, building chemistry, and embracing new roles. We’re looking to fill some key positions and emphasize strong communication on and off the field. If we can find our rhythm, trust each other, and execute our game plan, we are confident this will be a successful season,” Spriggle shared her hopes for how the team will work together to make this yet another impressive season.
Midd-West had some main focus points going into practice to prepare them for the season. Spriggle sectioned these points into five key categories. Building team chemistry, which will involve “establishing strong relationships on and off the field.”
Fundamentals and conditioning which will require “sharpening basic skills and improving fitness levels. Setting team goals, which will include “creating individu-
al and team objectives for the season.” Defining roles, which consists of “ensuring everyone understands their responsibilities and how to contribute.” And Developing game strategy which will mainly focus on “learning plays, formations, and tactics for different situations.”
Spriggle has set a very clear game plan for her team and is excited to put it into play and get to work. There is much to look forward to this season for the team, however, Spriggle shared, “I’m most
looking forward to building strong bonds with my players and understanding their motivations for playing this sport. Once we learn their ‘why,’ we can better support their growth and help them develop into the players they aspire to be. As a team, I hope to see plenty of growth - both individually and collectivelybecause success can be measured in many ways. And, of course, I hope we can rack up plenty of wins along the way.”
Spriggle will continue to
set her team up for success and the team will work to improve each time they hit the field. Fans can expect a competitive season.
Sentinel photo by BOB HOCKENBROCK
Pictured is the Midd-West softball team, front row, from left, Violet Weaver, Julie Fry, Miley Beachel, Cali Sauer, Kady Wagner, Allison Walter. Middle row, Jayda Dunn, Ava Yoder, Kylie Mitch, Hailie Womer, Briahna Keister, Kinley Hoover, Katie Zimmerman. Back row, Brianna Hohman, Madison Swineford, Emma Wagner, Alexa Hostetler, Sam Leitch.
MIDD-WEST GIRLS LACROSSE
Midd-West girls lacrosse eyes more ticks in the win column
BY MINA PHILLIPS
Sports correspondent sports@lewistownsentinel.com
MIDDLEBURG — The Midd-West girls lacrosse team is gearing up for the start of a new season. The team is made up of 15 girls, nine of which are seniors, along with two juniors, two sophomores and two freshmen. They are led this year by head coach Kailey Wagner.
The girls had a tough season last year, ending the season with a record of 2-10. The team is set to play 13 games this year in the regular season.
The Midd-West girls are starting the season this year with nine seniors, after only having four last season. Addison Friel and Samantha Landis are two of the four graduated seniors, they led the team in assists last year. Although the girls lost two of the top assists, they
Optimism
Continued from Page 22
Aurand. “Our number one player(Kint) is our only Senior. Not only that but he is a good kid mentally. He’s got his act together. Hes got the student part of student-athlete down, it translates on the court and he is great with his teammates. So obviously you look to the senior to step up.”
“Our number two is a freshman girl (Sylvia Gaisior). She has what it takes mentally as well so when other young players that are maybe a year or two older than her see the young ones stepping up that’s contagious. So her game on the court helps everyone off the court as well.”
The team has a lot of
are keeping their top scorers, seniors Audreyanna Norman and Claire Steininger. Norman ended the season last year as top scorer, leading the team with an impressive 24 goals. Steininger followed with a total of 10.
The Mustangs will face Selinsgrove in a road matchup on April 1. On April 3, Midd-West travels to play Mifflinburg.
Fans should anticipate a more competitive season this year.
With nine seniors, the team is on track to outdo their previous record. The girls will continue to work hard in practice with hopes that their hard work and dedication will show on the field and get them a few more wins in the book this year.
younger classman that will be looking for some playing time.
“I have another freshman Jackson Sheetz, he’s a starter for number two doubles,” said Aurand. “Asher Wriglesworth who is our third singles player is only a sophomore and in the tennis world for a sophomore who is a returning starter, two thumbs up for that and Dayton Miller in number two doubles. He is only a sophomore as well. We have a very young team. In the next two years combined we only lose three players.”
Aurand sees his full roster as his team’s biggest strength coming into the season.
“I see depth as our biggest strength. We don’t have the strengths we had at number one last year. Thats no knock on Darin Kint but
Xane Whitesel was a twotime representative to states. Thats a tough act to follow,” said Aurand. “But our depth. We have people at number two doubles last year that are still at number two doubles. Both of our number one doubles players were number one players last year. It’s not because the team hasn’t gotten any better, it’s a muscle memory sport. It’s a full year of these returning starters getting a whole another year of their career better but the team has such depth that the middle and lower parts of our starting order that they haven’t even been able to move up. So the heart of our order is going to be even stronger this year.”
Youth and inexperience will be some weaknesses the Indians will be working on this season.
“The fact that we’re real young is a weakness. Like I said before tennis is a muscle memory sport. So the more years you play it, the better you are,” said Aurand. “There is a correlation between how many balls you hit and how good you are. So you have younger players who play less balls that would mean in theory this year that could be a weakness when you got to play a bunch of schools that half or three-quarters of their starters are seniors. But that doesn’t they have the talent to overcome that. But you know how it is in high school sports in high school sports that mental edge is even more important because it’s kids.”
The goals for those year’s team is a simple one..
“Goals for the team is to make the team championship
and challenge Westmont Hilltop for the team championship,” said Aurand. “Last year was considered a bad year for the program because we lost to Westmont Hilltop in the finals. If you have a program that making a team championship is Meh! Thats how you know you’ve got a
good program.”
Aurand doesn’t see just one team on those year’s schedule as tough, he sees all of them as tough.
“We don’t compete in a league so our whole schedule is geared around us gearing up for the end of the season,” added Aurand.
Sentinel photo by BOB HOCKENBROCK
Pictured is the Midd-West girls lacrosse team, front row, from left, Audrey Norman, Maci Tittle, Kina Aigler, Sydney Jordan, Bailey McCoy, Hailey Kline. Back row, Ella Swartz, Claire Steininger, Layla Brunson, Emma Stahl, Alaina Brower, Alyssa Deubner.
SPRING SPORTS 2025
Sentinel photo by YUSHENG HE
Sentinel photos by SAM BAUMGARDNER
Good Luck Athletes!
Sentinel photos by SAM BAUMGARDNER
Sentinel photo by KENNY VARNER
SPRING SPORTS 2025
Sentinel photos by SAM BAUMGARDNER
Sentinel photo by YUSHENG HE
Sentinel photo by MIKE GOSS
Sentinel photo by JEFF SHOMO
Thursday, March 27, 2025
Mifflin County softball
April 1 at Altoona 4:15 p.m.
April 3 at Chambersburg 4:15 p.m.
April 4 vs DuBois 4:15 p.m.
April 7 vs Cedar Cliff 4:15 p.m.
April 9 at Mechanicsburg 4:15 p.m.
April 11 vs Mt. Union 4:15 p.m.
April 15 at Cumberland Valley 4:15 p.m.
April 17 vs Central Dauphin 4:15 p.m.
April 21 at State College 4:15 p.m.
April 23 vs Altoona 4:15 p.m.
April 24 at West Perry 4:30 p.m.
April 28 vs State College 4:15 p.m.
April 29 vs Chambersburg 4:15 p.m.
May 1 at Cedar Cliff 4:15 p.m.
May 5 vs Mechanicsburg 4:15 p.m.
May 7 vs Cumberland Valley 4:15 p.m.
May 9 vs Williamsport 4:15 p.m.
May 12 vs Central Mtn. 4:15 p.m.
May 14 at Bald Eagle 4:30 p.m.
Mifflin County baseball
April 1 at Altoona 4:15 p.m.
April 3 vs Chambersburg 4:15 p.m.
April 5at State College 12 p.m.
April 7 at Cedar Cliff 4:15 p.m.
April 9 vs Mechanicsburg 4:15 p.m.
April 11 vs Mt. Union 4:15 p.m.
April 15 vs Cumberland Valley 4:15 p.m.
April 17 vs Central Dauphin 4:15 p.m.
April 21 vs State College 4:15 p.m.
April 23 vs Altoona 4:15 p.m.
April 24 at Greater Latrobe 5:30 p.m.
April 25 at Peoples Natural Gas Field (Altoona) 12:30 p.m.
April 29 at Chambersburg 4:15 p.m.
May 5 at Mechanicsburg 4:15 p.m.
May 7 at Cumberland Valley 6:30 p.m.
May 9 vs Cedar Cliff 4:15 p.m.
SPRING SPORTS SCHEDULES
Mifflin County track & field
March 29 at Chambersburg 10 a.m.
April 1 at Altoona 3:45 p.m.
April 8 at CD East 4:30 p.m.
April 10 at Central Dauphin 4 p.m.
April 15 at Carlisle 3:45 p.m.
April 26 at Lock Haven 12 p.m.
May 2 at Mansion Park, Al- toona 12:30 p.m.
May 10 at Chambersburg 9 a.m.
May 13-14 at Mansion Park TBA
May 23-24 at PIAA Champion- ships TBA
Mifflin County boys tennis
March 27 vs Red Land 4 p.m.
March 31 vs Northern 4 p.m.
April 2 at Lower Dauphin 4 p.m.
April 4 vs Cedar Cliff 4 p.m.
April 7 at Hershey 4 p.m.
April 9 vs Carlisle 4 p.m.
April 11 vs Cumberland Valley 4 p.m.
April 14 at Central Dauphin 4 p.m.
April 15 at Juniata 4 p.m.
April 16 at Palmyra 4 p.m.
April 17 at Central Mtn. 10 a.m.
April 22 at Mechanicsburg 4 p.m.
April 24 at CD East 8:30 a.m.
April 25 at CD East 8:30 a.m.
Mifflin County girls lacrosse
March 27 vs Cedar Cliff 4:30 p.m.
April 3 at Mechanicsburg 5:30 p.m.
April 8 vs Cumberland Valley 4:30 p.m.
April 10 at Central Dauphin 4 p.m.
April 12 vs Lewisburg 11 a.m.
April 14 at CD East 4 p.m.
April 16 at Carlisle 6 p.m.
April 22 at State College 6:30 p.m.
April 24 vs Chambersburg 4:30 p.m.
April 29 at Cedar Cliff 6:30 p.m.
May 6 vs Mechanicsburg 4:30 p.m.
May 8 at Cumberland Valley 4:30 p.m.
May 13 vs Central Dauphin 4:30 p.m.
May 14 vs CD East 6 p.m.
East Juniata softball
March 31 vs Sugar Valley 4:30 p.m.
April 2 at Halifax 4:30 p.m.
April 4 at Newport 4:30 p.m.
April 7 vs Greenwood 4:30 p.m.
April 11 vs Juniata 4:30 p.m.
April 12 vs Cowanesque Valley 1 p.m.
April 12 vs Millville 3 p.m.
April 14 vs Line Mtn. 4:30 p.m.
April 16 at Upper Dauphin 4:30 p.m.
April 23 vs Susquenita 4:30 p.m.
April 24 at Fannett-Metal 4:30 p.m.
April 28 vs Halifax 4:30 p.m.
April 30 vs Newport 4:30 p.m.
May 2 at Greenwood 4:30 p.m.
May 5 at Bucktail 4:30 p.m.
May 7 at Juniata 4:30 p.m.
May 9 at Line Mtn. 4:30 p.m.
Mifflin County boys lacrosse
March 27 at Cedar Cliff 6:30 p.m.
April 3 vs Mechanicsburg 4:30 p.m.
April 5 at York Suburban 12 p.m.
April 8 at Cumberland Valley 6 p.m.
April 10 vs Central Dauphin 4:30 p.m.
April 12 at Carlisle 10:45 a.m.
April 14 at CD East 6 p.m.
April 16 vs Carlisle 4:30 p.m.
April 22 vs State College 4:30 p.m.
April 24 at Chambersburg 7 p.m.
April 29 vs Cedar Cliff 4:30 p.m.
May 6 at Mechanicsburg 5:45 p.m.
May 8 vs Cumberland Valley 4:30 p.m.
May 12 at Central Dauphin 6:30 p.m.
May 14 vs CD East 4:30 p.m.
East Juniata baseball
March 28 vs Susquenita 4:30 p.m.
March 31 vs Sugar Valley 4:30 p.m.
April 2 vs Halifax 4:30 p.m.
April 4 vs Newport 4:30 p.m.
April 7 at Greenwood 4:30 p.m.
April 9 vs St. Joe’s 4:30 p.m.
April 11 at Juniata 4:30 p.m.
April 14 at Line Mtn. 4:30 p.m.
April 16 vs Upper Dauphin 4:30 p.m.
April 23 at Susquenita 4:30 p.m.
April 28 at Halifax 4:30 p.m.
April 30 at Newport 4:30 p.m.
May 2 vs Greenwood 4:30 p.m.
May 7 vs Juniata 4:30 p.m. May 9 vs Line Mtn. 4:30 p.m.
East Juniata track & field
March 29 at Bellefonte 9:30 a.m.
April 1 at Midd-West 4 p.m.
April 2 at Greenwood 4 p.m.
April 8 vs Juniata 4 p.m.
April 11 at Tulpehocken 3:30 p.m.
April 16 at Millersburg 3:30 p.m.
April 23 at Susquenita 4 p.m.
May 2 at Central Columbia TBA
May 7 at TVAA League Meet 3:30 p.m.
SPRING SPORTS 2025
Sentinel photos by YUSHENG HE
Sentinel photo by KENNY VARNER
Sentinel photo by YUSHENG HE Sentinel photo by SAM BAUMGARDNER
