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MEMBERS OF THE 2025 WEBSTER CITY FOOTBALL TEAM are, front row (left to right): Eli Estlund, Cael Alexander, Cody Elliot, Dawson Bertran, Carter Mickelson, Jamey Stansfield, Aiden Hrnicek, Jaxon Griffith, Gavin Wynkoop, Nate Beaulieu, Cole Nohrenberg, Beau Nohrenberg and Addison Punkham. Second row: Salomon Inthisane, Yerik Vasquez, John Wilwerding, Zack Lahr, Coyce Bertran, Gryffin Stevens, Luke Blake, Kaleb Hansen, Grant Arends, Jack Randall, Edwin Ramos Nolasco, Israel Torres, Tristan Bohl and Ayden Elliot. Third row: Malachi Streigle, Peyton Weisberg, Mavryk Ahrens, Harrison Scheurmann, Isaac Stines, Briggs Peppel, Gordon Bargfrede, Boston Farley, Rey Perez, Will Ruby and Zakiah Christensen. Fourth row: Grayson Simonton, Henry Ehn, Diego Perez, Everett Henderson, Tony Williams, Reed Larson, Winston Cheyne, Brandon Burney, AJ Sexe, Brandon Law, Jax Olson, Andrew Vaughn and Leland Feldhaus. Not pictured: Isaac Vongsee.
LYNX EAGER TO GET BACK TO WINNING WAYS
By DANA BECKER sports@freemanjournal.net
Andy Brim got his feet wet last fall, leading the Webster City football team as the head coach for the first time.
Now, Brim wants to get the Lynx back to the playoffs and contending with the best of the best in Class 3A.
To do that, Webster City will need its returning starters and letterwinners to take that next step after going 3-6 a season ago. That was the first time the Lynx have finished below .500 since 2014 when they
went 5-6, snapping a run of nine straight seasons with a winning record.
Leading the way will be seniors Nate Beaulieu, Dawson Bertran, Cody Elliott, Eli Estlund, Jaxon Griffith, Aiden Hrnicek, Carter Mickelson, Bean Nohrenberg, Cole Nohrenberg, Adison Punkham, Jamey Stansfield and Gavin Wynkoop.
Bertran, Estlund, Griffith, Hrnicek, Mickelson and the Nohrenberg twins are all returning starters, as Estlund, Griffith and Cole Nohrenberg made the all-district team. Cole Nohrenberg is a two-time alldistrict selection.
Juniors Kaleb Hansen and Israel Torres are two more returning starters, as they are joined by classmates Grant Arends, Coyce Bertran and Zack Lahr, along with sophomore Boston Farley, as letterwinners back.
“We have several key positions returning this year but also have some that we will have to replace,” said Brim, who spent almost two decades as an assistant coach before replacing Bob Howard. “Our schedule this year is really difficult like last season but I feel like we can compete with anyone.
“Each week, we will have to be ready to compete. We’ll also see some new teams in our district this season, as we haven’t played Sioux Center or MOC-Floyd Valley.”
Last year, Hrnicek was thrown into the spinback position after an injury sidelined starter Luke Estlund. He finished with 210 yards rushing and a pair of touchdowns while completing 6 of 8 passes for 64 yards with a score.
Griffith was second on the team with 824 yards rushing last year, averaging over
Courtesy of Patrick Coons Photography
WEBSTER CITY FOOTBALL
DFJ file photo
WEBSTER CITY’S JAXON GRIFFITH runs the ball against Hampton-Dumont-CAL last season in Webster City.
Oct. 3 ...........................................................................................Sioux Center
Oct. 10 .............................................................................at Sioux City Heelan Oct. 17 .................................................................................................Algona Oct. 24 ............................................................................at MOC-Floyd Valley
Friday,
Algona at
Friday,
Algona
Friday, Sept. 19
Waverly-Shell Rock at ................................Algona
WEBSTER CITY’S COYCE BERTRAN (3) makes an interception as teammate Aiden Hrnicek (6) pursues the play in 2024.
Sioux Center at
Friday, Sept. 26
Algona
Friday, Oct.
Friday, Oct. 10
Sioux
Friday, Oct. 17
Algona
Friday, Oct. 24
MEMBERS OF THE 2025 WEBSTER CITY VOLLEYBALL TEAM are, front row (left to right): Morgan Hackbarth, Janey Putney, Clara Grossoehme, Ashlee Nydegger, Joselyn Carden, Hailey Brim and Alivia Burns. Back row: Jakaela Cherry (manager), Kaitlyn Winkler, Lovie Pruismann, Jaylyn Bahrenfuss, Avery Poppen, Tristyn Wright, Evie Davis and Elie Peterson (manager). Not pictured: managers Kenley Koop and Marissa Miller.
VETERAN GROUP ANCHORS LYNX ON THE COUR T
By CHRIS JOHNSON sports@freemanjournal.net
Jess Howard has a strong veteran core returning to the volleyball court in 2025, and she is hoping this group can make some noise in the North Central Conference.
A year removed from a 16-win season, the Webster City volleyball team will lean on eight returning letterwinners as Howard
enters her 19th season as Webster City head coach.
Spearheaded by the senior quartet of Hailey Brim, Alivia Burns, Morgan Hackbarth and Ashlee Nydegger the Lynx are looking for big things.
Hackbarth was second on the team with 241 digs, and 29 aces. Brim had 26 aces.
Juniors Lovie Pruismann, Avery Poppen and Tristyn Wright were key assists for
Webster City as well last fall. Poppen had 61 kills to go along with a team high 33 assists and team high 35 blocks. Wright had 91 kills, 18 blocks and 138 digs. Sophomore Jaylyn Bahrenfuss is back as well.
“We bring back a strong nucleus of girls from last year,” Howard said. “Defensively, the back row will be solid. They are quick to the ball and do a great job of reading hitters
and getting their bodies in the right spot to get a hand on the ball.”
Howard also likes how the Lynx shake out offensively.
“Offensively, we are bringing back a group of girls that have plenty of varsity experience from last year,” Howard said. “This group of girls mesh very well together
DFJ photo by David Borer
DFJ file photo
MORGAN HACKBARTH serves the ball for Webster City last season. Hackbarth will be a senior this season.
WC VOLLEY , Continued from Page 4
on the court, and have depth to continually push each other to get better at every practice.”
The specialty of this Lynx squad appears to be on defense.
“This team is very strong defensively,” Howard said. “The defensive specialists are quick to the ball and anticipate very well.
“At the net, we have some height this year that will help to slow down attacks and frustrate (opposing) hitters.”
Being only a couple of weeks into the season, Howard has already seen great improvement from Webster City.
“This team has made great strides in the short amount of time that we have been practicing. I only see them getting better as the season goes on,” Howard said. “We continually talk about the mental side of the game and how to push each other to make the team better as a whole.”
With four seniors in the mix and a solid junior
class, Howard is pleased with the progress of the collective leadership on and off the court.
“This is a great group of seniors that have a balance of players who lead by their actions and voice,” Howard said. “They mesh very well together and has a competitive mindset.”
In an ultra-competitive NCC race, where a year ago the league title came down to the final week, the Lynx finished with an impressive 6-1 record in conference play. Humboldt was the eventual champion.
Algona was the champion in 2023, while Clarion-Goldfield-Dows won or shared in four straight titles prior to that.
“Our goals aren’t any different this year than they have been in the past,” Howard said. “We want to finish on top of the conference, and once the regular season concludes, our focus will turn to making a run at qualifying for the state tournament.”
MEMBERS OF THE 2025 WEBSTER CITY GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY TEAM are, front row (left to right): Izzy McNeil, Rubi Andrade-Murillo, Hayden Soesbee, McKenna Buakham, Jessica Utrera and Marlene Saavedra Mendoza. Back row: Julia Griep, Megan Vandeer, Izzy Grossoehme, Victorious Mirembe, Heidi Mendoza and Sadie Rippentrop. Not pictured: Abby Peterson.
LYNX RELYING HEAVILY ON THEIR SENIOR CLASS
By CHRIS JOHNSON sports@freemanjournal.net
With five senior girls back, Webster City cross country coach Derek Turner has high hopes for the Lynx in 2025. Webster City will be led by seniors Izzy Grossoehme, Julia Griep, Heidi Mendoza, Izzy McNeil and Abby Peterson.
The Lynx have raised the bar of expectations based on their talent.
“As always, our goal is to compete with the top three to four teams in our conference,” Turner said. “However, improvement over the course of the season is what our measure of success will
be. Are we getting better every practice? Are our times improving? Are we doing everything we need outside of practice to achieve those goals?
“Those are the things that we can ask ourselves throughout the year to determine if we are on the right course to be the best we can be come the end of
October.”
The key aspect for the Lynx will be the seniors back, that will be able to help lead the young group coming in.
“I think our main strength will be our experience,” Turner said. “We will have 10
DFJ photo by David Borer
file photo
IZZY GROSSOEHME runs for the Webster City girls cross country team last season.
seniors between both squads which is the most we have had in quite some time. Along with quite a few juniors we have a squad that has experienced varsity competition and knows what it takes to be successful.
“The past few years we have been on the edge of making a breakthrough into the top half of our conference and I think this year will be one that if we can do that. This team is hungry to find success and if we can keep on track I think they will find it. The athletes on both sides are ready to take the next step. I’m excited for what the year will bring.”
With experience and youth also comes the need to improve and Turner sees that as competing well in uncomfortable situations.
“If we want to compete with the top teams in our conference, we need to be
comfortable getting uncomfortable. In practice, in competition, in all parts of cross country,” Turner said. “When we leave our comfort zone is where we make big improvements and find out what our potential can be. I think this team is up to the task.
“Being able to do that is what the best runners are able to do. If we want to put ourselves up with the teams that are constantly winning conference titles or qualifying for state, that is what we need to do.”
Also running for the Lynx on the girls’ side this season will be Rubi AndradeMurillo, Hayden Soesbee, McKenna Buakham, Jessica Utrera, Marlene Saavedra, Megan Vandeer, Victorious Mirembe and Sadie Rippentrop.
by
MEMBERS OF THE 2025 WEBSTER CITY BOYS CROSS COUNTRY TEAM are, front row, (left to right): Jack Barner, Leland Eggers, Aiden Wardell, Kaleb Draeger, Owen Anderson and Tariq Burton. Back row: Arlen Lake, Jaxin Loughry, Gabe Thumma, Justin Callahan, Kyzer Zinnel and Daniel Murillo-Delfin. Not pictured: Ben Youngdale and Jordon Betts.
STRONG NUCLEUS FUELS LYNX BOYS HARRIERS
By CHRIS JOHNSON sports@freemanjournal.net
As he enters his sixth season as Webster City cross country coach, Derek Turner has great expectations for both the boys and girls squads this fall.
Returning for their senior year on the the boys’ side are Justin Callahan, Jack Barner, Gabe Thumma, Kyzer Zinnel, Arlen Lake and Ben Youngdale.
“We return the vast majority of our varsity athletes from last year on both sides, which is a great thing,” Turner said. “The
boys have also added several that I feel can definitely compete for a varsity position.”
Veteran leadership will be a key factor for the Lynx boys.
“I think our main strength will be our experience,” Turner said. “We will have 10 seniors between both squads, which is the
most we have had in quite some time. Along with quite a few juniors we have a squad that has experienced varsity competition and knows what it takes to be successful.
“The past few years we have been on the
DFJ photo
David Borer
WC BOYS XC , Continued from Page 8
DFJ file photo
WEBSTER CITY’S JUSTIN CALLAHAN races to the finish line next to St. Edmond’s Liam Shannon last year.
edge of making a breakthrough into the top half of our conference and I think this year will be one that if we can do that. This team is hungry to find success and if we can keep on track I think they will find it.The athletes on both sides are ready to take the next step. I’m excited for what the year brings.”
Even with the experience, Turner knows there will be plenty to work on.
“If we want to compete with the top teams in our conference, we need to be comfortable getting uncomfortable. In practice, in competition...in all parts of cross country,” Turner said. “When we leave our comfort zone, that’s where we make big improvements and find out what our potential can be.
“I think this team is up to the task. That’s what the best runners are able to do. If we want to put ourselves up with the teams that are constantly winning conference titles or
qualifying for state, that’s what we need to do.”
Also running for Webster City will be Leland Eggers, Aiden Wardell, Kaleb Draeger, Owen Anderson, Tariq Burton, Jaxin Loughry, Daniel Murillo-Delfin and Jordon Betts.
With an upperclassmed-led team, Turner has big things in mind for his boys.
“As always, our goal is to compete with the top three to four teams in our conference,” Turner said. “However, improvement over the course of the season is what our measure of success will be. Are we getting better every practice? Are our times improving? Are we doing everything we need outside of practice to achieve those goals?
“Those are the things that we can ask ourselves throughout the year to determine if we are on the right course to be the best we can be come the end of October.”
MEMBERS OF THE 2025 SOUTH HAMILTON FOOTBALL TEAM are, front row (left to right): Brody Harris, Parker Stuck, Titus Herrick, Gaige Willis and Jose Babcock. Second row: Liam Ealy, Spencer Davis, Davien Henderson, Kaden Dean, Ryan Oskvig and Lyndon Johnson. Third row: Cooper Stuck, Garrett Johnson, Ben Swenson, Jacob Lutjen, Kyler Ziesman and Wyatt Gelder. Back row: Quinlan Junker, Lane Widick, Nathan Friest, Mason Ostrem, Owen Ealy, Kash Northrop and Mason Uttecht.
HAWKS HUNGRY TO KEEP MOMENTUM GOING
By DANA BECKER sports@freemanjournal.net
Under Paul Skartvedt, the South Hamilton football team has recorded three straight seasons with at least five wins, going 21-9 overall during that time.
Skartvedt and the Hawks will look to keep that going this year with a handful of key returning starters back —
alongside with several other letterwinners. Running the football and stopping the run have been two key points of emphasis for the program since long before Skartvedt stepped into the head coaching position. That will continue this season with the talents of players like Jose Babcock, Wyatt Gelder and Kaden Dean.
The trio of Babcock, Gelder and Dean will be counted on to replace much of the 2,600-plus yards gone from
a season ago. Dean had 100 yards and a touchdown, averaging over six yards per carry, Gelder added 96 and Babcock 68 with a score.
“Jose, Wyatt and Kaden all saw a lot of snaps a year ago and we will rely heavily on them,” Skartvedt said. “Our offensive line has experience and that should help us knock
DFJ photo by Angela Hewitt
some holes open for our running backs.
“I feel very confident in the kids we have along the offensive line and in the backfield to carry the ball.”
Lyndon Johnson, a junior, is the leading returning receiver after averaging over 16 yards per reception. South Hamilton will be breaking in a new quarterback in 2025, as Braden Young graduated alongside classmatea and leading rusher Nick Severseike.
Garrett Johnson is likely to get the first opportunity at replacing Young. Gelder and Dean are slated to handle the tailback spots, with Babcock at fullback.
“We need the younger guys who did not get many snaps last year at the varsity level to step up,” Skartvedt said. “They need to be ready for their turn when we call their number to play.
“This is a good group who enjoys being with each other and works hard together. I am excited to see their growth.”
Babcock, Dean, Gelder, Brody Harris, Ben Swenson, Titus Herrick and Liam Ealy are among the Hawks who will be back on the defensive side of the ball. Babcock recorded 24 tackles a year ago and Harris 17, while Gelder, Dean, Swenson and Herrick all posted double-digit totals.
FOOT , Continued from Page 10
Herrick also caused havoc with three quarterback sacks.
“Jose and Brody will be key at the linebacker spot, with Wyatt and Kaden having started for us at defensive back.
“Ben and Titus will help us on the defensive line, with some younger guys needing to step up to fill in some holes lost to graduation.”
South Hamilton forced 15 turnovers and had a special teams touchdown last year. Harris and Babcock both have experience in the kicking game.
The Hawks have reached the round of 16 in the playoffs during each of the past three seasons, and four of the last five overall.
“We have a goal of making it back to the playoffs this year,” Skartvedt said. “Improving every practice and every game is a key to that happening.
“I think one of the most important goals that we have is being a good leader in our locker room, our school and our community.”
South Hamilton will be competing with 2024 district champion Manson Northwest Webster, along with perennial playoff qualifiers Emmetsburg and South Central Calhoun. Pocahontas Area and East Sac County round the league out.
GELDER runs the ball for South Hamilton in Jewell last fall.
are 21-9 the past three seasons.
DFJ file photo
WYATT
The Hawks
DFJ file photo
SOUTH HAMILTON PLAYERS Brock Zorn (65), Brody Harris (55), Lyndon Johnson (80) and Landon Sogard (88) run onto the field in 2024.
SH
HAWKS BRING SQUAD BACK INTACT FOR 2025
By CHRIS JOHNSON sports@freemanjournal.net
Shannon Skartvedt will have the luxury of seeing the same group return on the volleyball court, alongside some talented newcomers.
The third-year South Hamilton volleyball coach had no seniors a year ago.
“We are returning our entire lineup,” Skartvedt said. “We had no seniors.”
With that experience, the Hawks are hoping to build on their seven wins.
Junior Tessa Skartvedt is back after earning second-team Heart of Iowa AllConference honors. Skartvedt led the Hawks with 155 kills. She had 77 digs and 21 assists, along with 27 blocks.
Sophomore Emma Lammers was honorable mention all-conference. Lammers had 286 for the Hawks.
Sophomore Sara Scheller was also honorable mention all-conference a year ago. Scheller had 373 attacks and 34 kills with 21 blocks and 104 digs.
“Tessa was second team all-conference last year and will be returning at the middle
and outside hitter positions,” Skartvedt said. “Emma was honorable mention allconference last year and will be returning as our DS/libero.
“Sara was also honorable mention all-conference last season and will be returning as a middle hitter.”
DFJ photo by Angela Hewitt
MEMBERS OF THE 2025 SOUTH HAMILTON VOLLEYBALL TEAM are, front row (left to right): Lillie Ammerman, Emma Lammers and Abby Richardson. Middle row: Alexis Crosby, Aliya Erickson, Allie Neuberger and Riah Van De Pol. Back row: Tessa Skartvedt, Fiona Rott, Stella Martensen, Daytona Ferrie, Sara Scheller and Claire Hewitt.
Friday, Aug. 29
Football: Hawks vs. Saint Ansgar, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 30
Volleyball: Hawks at Clarion-Goldfield/ Dows Tournament, 9 a.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 2
Cross Country: Hawks at Webster City, 5 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 5
Football: Hawks at Panorama, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 6
Volleyball: Hawks at South Central Calhoun Tournament, 9 a.m.
Monday, Sept. 8
Volleyball: Hawks at Saydel, 5 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 11
Volleyball: Hawks at Perry Invitational, 4 p.m.
Cross Country: Hawks at Gilbert, 5 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 12
Football: Hawks at Southeast Valley, 7 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 18
Cross Country: Hawks at Colo-Nesco, 4:30 p.m.
Volleyball: Hawks vs. Saydel, 6:30 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 19
Football: Hawks vs. South Central Calhoun, 7 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 22
Volleyball: Hawks at Grand View Christian, 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 23
Cross Country: Hawks at West Marshall, 5:30 p.m.
Volleyball: Hawks vs. PCM, 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 25
Cross Country: Hawks at Roland-Story, 5 p.m.
Volleyball: Hawks at Roland-Story, 6:30 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 26
Hawks at East Sac County, 7 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 29
Cross Country: Hawks at Nevada, 5:30 p.m.
Volleyball: Hawks vs. West Marshall, 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 2
Cross Country: Hawks at Perry, 5 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 3
Football: Hawks at Pocahontas Area, 7 p.m.
Monday, Oct. 6
Volleyball: Hawks at Ogden Tournament, 5 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 7
Volleyball: Hawks at Perry, 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 9
Cross Country: Hawks host Jim Klein Invitational, 4:30 p.m.
Volleyball: Hawks vs. Greene County, 6:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 10
Football: Hawks vs. Emmetsburg, 7 p.m.
Monday, Oct. 13
Cross Country: Hawks at HOIAC meet in Monroe, 4:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 17
Football: Hawks vs. Manson NW, 7 p.m.
Skartvedt likes how things line up at the net for South Hamilton.
“We have a strong front row in terms of hitting and blocking,” Skartvedt said. “We have definitely improved from last year in our passing and getting them the ball.”
Even with a wealth of experience, Skartvedt sees room for improvement.
“We can always improve in our serve receive,” Skartvedt said. “But we have been working really hard (to get better).”
With no seniors a year ago, Skartvedt now has five to lean on in 2025.
“I have really enjoyed watching the seniors step up with more confidence and leadership this year,” Skartvedt said. “Our chemistry has been good so far, so we need to continue to focus on” team and not I” in terms of play and winning games.”
To be successful on the court, Skartvedt believes the team mentality is key for the Hawks.
“To continue improving, we have to put others before ourselves,” Skartvedt said. “That will help us to win more games as compared to last year.”
THE CREDITS
The annual Fan Fall Sports Preview Edition was a combined effort of the Messenger sports staff and advertising department.
Chris Johnson and Eric Pratt designed, assembled and edited the tab. Dana Becker, Johnson and Pratt gathered information and wrote stories. Nick Manwarren designed the cover.
We would like to take this time to thank each and every coach and the athletic directors for their cooperation during the summer months to help bring this special section to fruition.
MEMBERS OF THE 2025 SOUTH HAMILTON GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY TEAM are, front row (left to right): Kayley Zanker, Bianca Seaton, Vivian Swenson and Isabel Swenson. Back row: Rosemary Chamness, Cici Herrick, Olivia Beaune, Laurel Johnson and Addison Engelby.
HAWK GIRLS DRIVEN BY PLENTY OF EXPERIENCE
By DANA BECKER sports@freemanjournal.net
Six of the seven runners who comprised the varsity lineup for the South Hamilton girls cross country team return this fall. Seniors Olivia Beaune, Brooklyn Doolittle,
Isabel Swenson, Kayley Zanker and Bianca Seaton are joined by junior Cici Herrick as six of the seven runners who competed at the state qualifying event. Rosemary Chamness and Viviane Swenson are also back with distance running experience for Hawks head coach Emily Bochmann, who
has been with the program since 2015.
“One of our strengths this year is that every single runner has experience,” Bochmann said. “They also have a strong willingness to work hard to improve as a runner.”
Beaune finished 12th at the state-
qualifying meet, helping South Hamilton finish sixth overall. Herrick finished 16th overall with Doolittle placing 25th as all seven runners were in the Top-52.
“Olivia and Cici lead our team in
DFJ photo by Angela Hewitt
SOUTH HAMILTON PLAYERS make a tackle during a game last season in Jewell. South Hamilton is 21-9 combined the past three years.
CLASS 2A, DISTRICT 2 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
Friday, Aug. 29
Southeast Valley at ..............Manson NW
OABCIG at ............................Ridge View
Cherokee at .................Carroll Kuemper
Okoboji at ..........................Hartley-HMS
Algona at ..................................pirit Lake
Estherville-LC at .................Emmetsburg
Friday, Sept. 5
Emmetsburg at .............Southeast Valley
Tri-Center at ..............................OABCIG
Carroll Kuemper at ......................Algona
Boyden-Hull/RV at .....................Okoboji
Spirit Lake at ..............................Hull WC
Cherokee at ......................Estherville-LC
Friday, Sept. 12
South Hamilton at ........Southeast Valley
OABCIG at ....................Boyden-Hull/RV
Carroll Kuemper at ..............Shenandoah
Emmetsburg at ...........................Okoboji
Central Lyon/GLR at ..............Spirit Lake
Estherville-LC at ...........Clarion-Goldfield
Friday, Sept. 19
Southeast Valley at ............Estherville-LC
OABCIG at ...................Carroll Kuemper
Okoboji at ..............................Spirit Lake
Friday, Sept. 26
Kuemper at ..................Southeast Valley
Spirit Lake at .............................OABCIG
Estherville-LC at .........................Okoboji
Friday, Oct. 3
Okoboji at ....................Southeast Valley
Estherville-LC at ........................OABCIG
Spirit Lake at ................Carroll Kuemper
Friday, Oct. 10
Southeast Valley at .................Spirit Lake
OABCIG at .................................Okoboji
Carroll Kuemper at ............Estherville-LC
Friday, Oct. 17
Southeast Valley at ....................OABCIG
Okoboji at ....................Carroll Kuemper
Spirit Lake at .....................Estherville-LC
, Continued from Page 14
stretching, bonding and core workouts,” Bochmann said. “We look to them as leaders for our team.
“This is a tight-knit group of runners who have competed together for a long time. Each girl brings something special to the team.”
South Hamilton captured first place at the Colo-Nesco Invitational last year while also placing fourth at the West Marshall Invitational and Webster City Invitational. They added a fifth at the Heart of Iowa Conference meet.
Herrick was 18th at the conference race while Beaune finished 28th overall.
“We are working on staying mentally
tough and pacing ourselves throughout the race,” Bochmann said. “We are also working to develop packs on the course.
“Some of our goals are to continually improve to hopefully make state this year. I know our top runners are also working to break the school record time.”
The Hawks open the 2025 season at Maynes Grove for the Iowa Falls-Alden Invitational. They will head to meets hosted by Webster City, Gilbert, Colo-Nesco, West Marshall, Roland-Story, Nevada and Perry before hosting the annual Jim Klein Invitational on Oct. 9.
The HOIAC meet is set for Oct. 13 at Gateway Recreation in Monroe this year.
SH GIRLS XC
SOUTH HAMILTON BOYS CROSS COUNTRY
MEMBERS OF THE 2025 SOUTH HAMILTON BOYS CROSS COUNTRY TEAM are, front row (left to right): Kaden Greenlee, Mason Roethler, Sterling Dietzel and Evan Gibson. Back row: Jesus Garcia, Hayden Hill, Jackson Olmstead, Caden Christensen and Trevor Zanker.
By CHRIS JOHNSON sports@freemanjournal.net
In her first season as South Hamilton boys cross country coach, Robyn Reisetter will have a young group of runners to teach. Reisetter has coached cross country
before, but this is her first time at the head of a high school program.
Returning for the Hawks will be junior Hayden Hill, along with sophomores Caden Christensen and Trevor Zanker.
“Hayden will be running in the No. 1 spot,” Reisetter said. “I believe we’ve
got a few other new athletes who will be contenders in the top 50 percent of the pack.”
With a young group overall, there will be some growing pains for the Hawks. Resetter is eager to show them the ropes and get them used to varsity action.
“Being a young team, there is a lot of eagerness to learn and improve,” Reisetter said. “The mental toughness I see from these kids makes me really proud to be their coach.”
DFJ photo by Angela Hewitt
Wirth,
Christina Babcock.
As the season has developed early, Reisetter noted that the group will have to work on running together.
“Pack running is an area to work on,” Reisetter said. “With that, we will have the ability to improve our scoring.”
The Hawks hope to develop leadership from all classes for the future.
“We are a young team this year, with no seniors,” Reisetter said. “The chemistry among our team will continue to develop as the season progresses.
“The leadership is there among our returning runners.”
Also running for the Hawks will be Kaden Greenlee, Mason Roethler, Sterling Dietzel,
Reisetter is hoping to build the program that can carry over for seasons to come.
“Our goal this season is to build a strong foundation and continue developing a team culture of hard work, resilience and support,” Reisetter said. “We’re aiming to improve our times across the board, score well as a team, and continue to see growth both individually and as a team throughout the season.
“Beyond results, I want every runner to finish the season knowing they’ve grown stronger, and learned the value of perseverance.”
Evan Gibson, Jesus Garcia and Jackson Olmstead.
DFJ photo by Angela Hewitt TEAM MEMBERS for the 2025 South Hamilton varsity fall cheer squad are, front row, (left to right): Karlie Hill and Kyra Leahy. Middle row: Hailey Johnson, Grace
Ember Cuba Valles and Juanita Olvera. Back row: Adriana Ramirez, Bella Sogard and
SOUTH HAMILTON BOYS CC
eight yards per carry while scoring four touchdowns. He will be counted on to help replace the production lost from Cael Nixon and Estlund, who topped 1,000 combined yards on the ground.
“Aiden will be a key player on both sides of the ball for us. He is a smart football player and a great leader that makes the kids around him better,” Brim said. “Jaxon returning will be helpful for us, as he is a tremendous athlete that has the ability to impact any game in just a few plays.”
Mickelson was the leading receiver for both receptions and yards, finishing with six for 84, while Griffith caught two passes in 2024, with one going for a score.
“Cole will return to anchor the offensive line with two years of experience. He is one of the strongest kids we have ever had in the weight room, so it will be fun to see how that strength and power translates to the field,” Brim said. “Eli will be a key returner on both the offensive and defensive lines. He really improved a lot last year and just seems to get better every day.”
Griffith and Hrnicek anchored the defense for Webster City a year ago, and will be asked to do the same this fall. Griffith had a team-leading 56.5 tackles with 5.5 for loss, while Hrnicek recorded 52.5 tackles — three for loss — and had a sack as well.
Dawson Bertran, Mickelson, Bean Nohrenberg, Estlund and Wynkoop were top tacklers last year, as Estlund recorded 4.5 for loss while Hrnicek recovered four fumbles and Griffith picked off two passes.
“A strong tradition we have is what we call ‘waiting your turn,’” Brim said. “We have several kids who have worked really hard throughout the offseason, and they are ready to compete for their chance to play.”
Griffith will also get his hands on the ball in the return game, as he averaged 23.5 yards per kickoff return with a score while also fielding punts. The kicking game is sound with Torres, as he made 20 of 22
WC FOOT , Continued from Page 1
WEBSTER CITY’S ELI ESTLUND records a tackle against Hampton-Dumont-CAL in Webster City last
Estlund is now back for his senior year.
extra-point attempts as a sophomore while registering 14 touchbacks and averaging 33 yards per punt.
The Lynx open the year with North Central Conference rival Iowa Falls-Alden at home before hosting 4A contender Fort Dodge. They hit the road to take on another NCC opponent in Clear Lake, followed by a home contest against Gilbert.
Webster City closes out September on the road at defending 3A runner-up and NCC foe Humboldt followed by Sioux Center, Bishop Heelan, Algona and MOCFloyd Valley.
DFJ file photo
GAVIN WYNKOOP makes a tackle against Charles City’s Deacon Caspers in Webster City last season.
DFJ file photo
season.
WEBSTER CITY FALL SPORTS SCHEDULES
Friday, Aug. 29
Football: Lynx vs. Iowa Falls-Alden, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 30
Volleyball: Lynx at St. Edmond Tournament, 8:30 a.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 2
Girls Tennis: Lynx vs. St. Edmond, 4:15 p.m.
Cross Country: Lynx host Webster City Invitational, 5 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 4
Girls Tennis: Lynx at Hampton-Dumont/ CAL, 4:15 p.m.
Volleyball: Lynx at Algona, 7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 5
Football: Lynx vs. Fort Dodge, 7 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 8
Girls Tennis: Lynx vs. Osage, 4:15 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 9
Volleyball: Lynx vs. Clear Lake, 7 p.m.
Cross Country: Lynx at Waverly-Shell Rock, 6 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 10
Girls Tennis: Lynx host NCC Tournament, 10 a.m.
Friday, Sept. 12
Football: Lynx at Clear Lake, 7 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 15
Cross Country: Lynx at Ballard, 5:10 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 16
Volleyball: Lynx vs. Charles City, 7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 19
Football: Lynx vs. Gilbert, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 20
Volleyball: Lynx at Forest City Tournament, 9 a.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 23
Volleyball: Lynx at Hampton-Dumont/CAL, 7 p.m.
Cross Country: Lynx at Mason City, 6:15 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 25
Volleyball: Lynx vs. St. Edmond, 7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 26
Football: Lynx at Humboldt, 7 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 29
Cross Country: Lynx at Algona, 4:30 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 2
Volleyball: Lynx at Iowa Falls-Alden, 7 p.m.
Cross Country: Lynx at Hampton-Dumont/ CAL, 4:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 3
Football: Lynx vs. Sioux Center, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 4
Volleyball: Lynx at Madrid Invitational, 8 a.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 7
Cross Country: Lynx at Eagle Grove, 5 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 9
Volleyball: Lynx vs. Humboldt, 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 10
Football: Lynx at Bishop Heelan, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 14
Volleyball: Lynx vs. Fort Dodge, 7 p.m.
Cross Country: Lynx at NCC meet in Algona, 3:30 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 16
Volleyball: Lynx at Clarion-Goldfield/Dows, 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 17
Football: Lynx vs. Algona, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 18
Volleyball: Lynx at Winterset Tournament, 9 a.m.
Friday, Oct. 24
Football: Lynx at MOC-Floyd Valley, 7 p.m.
DFJ photo by David Borer
WEBSTER CITY opened its first-ever fall girls tennis season earlier this month, with a full preview published in the Sports section of the DFJ. Team members for the Lynx this year are (left to right) Alivia Burns, Gabbie Sebert, Kaylee Kohl, Camdyn Coons, Allie Severe and Sylvia Otteros. Not pictured: Paisyn Bare and Olivia Bergman.
DFJ photo by David Borer
TEAM MEMBERS for the 2025 Webster City cheer squad are, front row, (left to right): Alleyna Dawson, Allie Severe, Bria Wallerich and Evy Streigle. Back row: Breckyn Eide, Ava Gose, Greenlee Williams and Isabel Weinschenk.
