Nky Sports September Premier Edition
Magazine
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Player of the Month
Drew Barker Conner Cougars
Inside This Issue Game of the Month Highlands vs University Christian Photo by E.L. Hubbard
NKY Sports Top 10 NKU sports Heidi Thelen Notre Dame Volleyball Star Sidelined for Now
Dr. Tim Kremchek of Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine to Open Offices in Northern Kentucky in the Month of October!
NKY Sports Magazine − 1
NKY NKYSports Sports Photo by Tony Tribble Beechwood vs Notre Dame
Beechwood’s Jenna Fessler (13) during the Tigers’ game against Notre Dame Academy. Notre Dame defeated Beechwood in Girls Volleyball (25-9, 19-25, 25-13) (Photo by Tony Tribble)
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Beechwood hangs with NKY sports ##1# notre dame NKY Sports Magazine − 2
Inside this Issue Page
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Football
Heidi Thelen: when will she return to action?
Game of the Month Highlands vs University Christian
Cooper gets in win column over NCC!
Recap on Ryle Cooper Battle Player of the Month UK signee Drew Barker Ryle and St. Henry Slug it out!
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Beechwood Hangs with Notre Dame Top Players to Watch Results and Top 10 Picks Heidi Thelen Bluegrass Urgent Care Player of the Month
soccer
No doubt about it! Highlands vs University Christian Game of the month NKU fall sports update
Volleyball
Ryle vs St. Henry Battle NKU Playing Tough in Div. 1 Matchups
area cheerleaders
Top Players to Watch
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Visit us at: www.nkysportsmedia.com NKY Sports Magazine − 3
Nky sports Magazine Published by Sports Media, LLC 5294 Madison Pike Independence, Kentucky 41051 859-957-3547
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A l e tt e r f r o m o ur P ubl i sh e r
Northern Kentucky: Talented Teams, Talented Players, Talented Coaches. Welcome to the first edition of NKY Sports Magazine. Sports Media, was created to put local sports back in print. There are many online sources to view sports in this area, in particular high school sports. However, we are the only one presently that brings both color and full sized glossy magazines with the online version. We started with one monthly magazine covering the SWOL select baseball leagues and are now putting our knowledge to work in the high school, college and professional arena. Each month our talented staff of writers and photographers will be out in NKY covering the action. We are making it convenient to find our magazine, go to any NKY Kroger, CVS or local high school sporting event. We also service over 300 locations in the four counties; Kenton, Boone, Campbell and Grant.
Northern Kentucky: Talented Teams, Talented Players, Talented Coaches. Northern Kentucky has always been a hotbed for talent when it comes to sports. Some of the greats have played their high school careers in this area and went on to further their careers in major colleges across the country and throughout the professional ranks. It’s no different again this year as many of the area’s talented young athletes strive to make a name for themselves, their coaches and their schools. Join us right here for all the action as we endeavour to be your source for sports in NKY.
Don Hubbard President Sports Media
On the cover >> dRew barker-conner cougars Each month we will feature the talented players and teams that dot the NKY landscape. This month our photograper, E.L. Hubbard captured the Bluegrass Magazine Urgent Care Player of the Month, Drew Barker. Barker is Inside This Issue a recent signee of the Univerisity of Kentucky and looks to make his senior year a memorable one. If this first game against rival
Boone County is any indication, fans will be talking about Barker for a long time. Barker amassed 398 yards, 163 rushing and 235 passing. He had 2 rushing TD’s and 4 FREE through the air, and that was the stats of a heat shortened game that was stopped after halftime.
NKY Sports September Premier Edition
Player of the Month
Drew Barker Conner Cougars
Game of the Month Highlands vs University Christian NKY Sports Top 10 NKU sports
Photo by E.L. Hubbard
The views and opinions expressed in any articles are not necessarily those of the publisher but those of the authors or interviewee alone. We accept articles and advertising from third parties subject to the moral and ethical standards of the publisher. NKY Sports Magazine − 4
PreGame
Heidi Thelen Notre Dame Volleyball Star Sidelined for Now
Dr. Tim Kremchek of Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine to Open Offices in Northern Kentucky in the Month of October!
NKY Sports Magazine − 1
Front Cover Picture: Drew Barker with his first run from scrimmage, an 80-yarder off tackle.
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Foot 1-0
Simon Kenton VS Collins
Shelbyville, KY--Down by 7 to start the 4th quarter against last season’s Class 4A state runner-up Collins. Simon Kenton showed it’s got what it takes to get back to winning football games. The Pioneers roared back with 9 unanswered points, capping it off with a winning 11-yard field goal by Tyler Smith in the closing seconds to down Collins 23-21. Senior signal caller Brenan Kuntz willed
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Final Score SK 23 Collins 21
other plans mixing up defensive schemes and holding the high powered Jaguar offense to only 10 points and a 168 total yards. Cooper’s William Ludwig was 11 of 21 through the air with 1-TD but the star
0-1 of the game was the Ryle rush defense. Holding the Cooper running attack to 5 yards all game. Final Score Ryle 17 Cooper 10
Boone Co.VS CovCath
Florence, KY--Covington Catholic showed why it’s among the elite in NKY and the state, blasting the Rebels from Boone County, 48-0. CovCath racked up 33 first half points and coasted to an impressive first game win. Junior quarterback Adam Wagner had an equally impressive game putting up huge numbers. Wagner was 9 of 11 passing with 215 yards and almost 20 yards per pass play. He also led Colonels in rushing with 89 in 11 attempts. Sam Dressman NKY Sports Magazine − 6
in the hands of it’s skilled QB, Kuntz to set up the winning field goal. Kuntz threw for 123 yards and 1-TD and ran for another 102. Powell rushed for 113 yards on the night. Kuntz favorite target Grant Wassom led the Pioneers with 5 catches, 74 yards and 1-TD.
Ryle VS Cooper
Union, KY---Ryle is normally the favorite with the matchup against Cooper, but on this night the Jaguars came into the game the favorites and looking to start another run like last years. However Ryle had
0-1
his team to victory marching them down the field on its first possession in the 4th quarter. Setting them up for a 6 yard off tackle run from Dillon Powell to get what should have been a game tying TD. Smith missed the insuing PAT, and it looked like Collins may eek out a win for the home team. Marksberry rallied the defense letting them know they were in a must stop situation, and once again they came through putting the ball
0-1
and Sam Hatter were the recipients of Wagner’s accurate arm. Dressman hauled in 4 catches and 118 yard, while Hatter added 2 and 60 yards against a defense that was not up to the task of stopping the Colonel attack. Defensively Ben Zumdick, Matthew Way and Brody Thoreson led CovCath to a shut out and it’s first victory of season. After Dixie, the Colonels will face two tough opponents, Moller (Cincinnati area power) and Highlands. Highlands has
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been the Colonels achilles heel for the past several seasons. This years showdown should be another classic as the two top rated teams in NKY face off. That game is slated for September 28th.
Final Score Boone Co 0 CovCath 48
tball 1-0
Walton-Verona VS Bellevue
Bellevue, KY--Chris and Wil Lattimore, Walton-Verona’s dynamic duo compiled 212 yards of offense helping the Bearcats to a tough fought season opening victory. Bellevue and Walton have split series games over the past couple of years each on a classic matchup. This game would not dissappoint as the both clubs slugged it out for 4 quarters, as the Bearcats pre-
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vailed by 1-point, 21-20. Walton held the lead at each quarter stopping point taking a14-6 lead into the locker room at halftime. Tyler Ackerson, Bellevue’s signal caller racked up 159 yards through the air but gave the ball back to Bearcats 3-times via interceptions. Even with the turnovers, Bellevue was still within striking distance in this contest. The Lattimore’s
and QB-Justin Kline kept drives alive keeping the lead all game. Chris Lattimore rushed for 63 yards and Wil added 108 yards on only 2 receptions.
Final Score WV 21 Bellevue 20
Campbell Co. VS Newport
Alexandria,KY---Playing before their home crowd, in a new stadium the Campbell County Camels played inspiring football and came away with a big 27-7 opening season win. The Camels game plan was to grind it out on the ground, and that’s exactly what they did. 40 rushes for 248 yards and 3 touchdowns. Campbell County was led by senior running back Alex
Howard, 2-touchdowns and 134 yards on 17 carries. After Newport scooped up a fumble and returned it 54 yards for their only score. Junior Eli Matthews electified the jammed pack crowd with a 76-yard kickoff return for the final Camel Score. Brandon Morris chipped in with 64 rushing yards and 1-TD, as the defense tossed a shutout on their end not allowing the Newport offense to
0-1
0-1
get started. Newport was only able to total a dismal 158 yards of total offense and struggled to mount a very serious charge.
Final Score Campbell Co 27 Newport 7
Find articles and features updated on a regular basis
at: www.nkysportsmedia.com
for the best in all sports in nky NKY Sports Magazine − 7
Players to Watch a look at the t o p nk y ta l ent b y spo rt
football
Drew Barker, Conner Cougars, QB Senior, 6’-4”. Drew was recruited heavily
after last season, because of his combination arm strength, speed, agility and overall football IQ. Drew signed with Kentucky and looks to put up some impressive numbers this season. Barker is the real deal and a true team player. Is the leader and motivates his teammates to play at a higher level.
Adam Wagner, Covinton Catholic QB, Junior 6’-1”. Adam is taking over at QB for the talented Covington Catholic high school football team and he is one of the standouts. In 2-games this season he has led through the air and on the ground. Adam is quick with his feet and has an accurate and strong arm. With room to grow he will be a force to recon with this year.
Drew Houliston, Highlands, QB, Senior 6’1”. Houliston is the signal caller of the
#1 rated NKY team. He’s the leader and very talented. Can scamble and throw on the run and has a good mindset when he sets up in the pocket to throw. He accurate and long and most likely to take his club to an unprecedented 7th straight state championship.
William Ludwig, Cooper, QB/DL, Senior 6’1”. Ludwig is a bruising type of
quarterback. Has the tools to lead Cooper far into the tournament again. He is a true double threat as he can run with ball and get it to the talented Jaguar receivers as well.
Desean Brumfield, Holmes, QB, 5’8” Sophomore. Desean is quick, and tricky. He lacks the size at
this point but makes up for it in his very quick feet and elusive moves in the backfield. He can throw the football with accuracy but lacks the overall arm strength. Desean may run for as many yards as he passes.
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Volleyball Heidi Thelen, Senior. Heidi is one of the best volleyball players in the state and nation.
Her natural instincs to the ball and ball striking ability are next to none. She is quick on to the net and plays above it most of the time. All the accolades being tossed around about this exciting player are true.
Alexa Nichols, Ryle, Senior. Alexa has signed to play college volleyball at
Belmont University but has her hopes set on doing something big with the six returning seniors from last years 28 win season. Alexa is strong and powerful force inside and has a high percentage of kills when she gets to the net.
Ashley Bush, Ryle,
Senior. Bush is the other part of the dynamic duo on a team that is considered one of the best in the state. Bush has signed to continue her career at Northwestern. She is the best setter and one of the best defenders in NKY. She keeps it at the net for Ryle big three hitters and is always consistent on defense.
Kendyll Kraus, St. Henry,
Junior. Kendyll is the best player on a talent laden St. Henry squad and she is only a junior.. She’s agile and quick to get to sets to her teammates at the net.. St.Henry’s kill ratio is one of the best in the area, and mainly due to her setting abilities. Kraus is not a one-dimensional player and can defend against some of the best hits around. She is scrappy and makes the other players around her better.
Soccer Drew Berkemeyer, Bishop Brossart Drew is a goal scorer. Get him the ball and he has the moves to get it done. This season Brossart should be fun to watch and Berkemeyer will provide the Mustangs with plenty of fire power around the goal. Drew has great footwork and an untireing desire to win.
Anavey Fangman, Ryle
senior. Anavey has always been a tough competitor and is a player to watch this season as she hopes to help Ryle move past regionals and into state play this season. Anavey is fast, a good dribbler and is a very unselfish player on the field.
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Key Matchups for Sep Week 2 saw some teams keep their records unblemished while others got in the win column. The actions is just heating up and their are some classic matchups this month that will determine how far some of these teams will go in end of year play. Key games in the month of September
Newport Central Catholic Tommy Donnelly runs the ball. (Photo by Tony Tribble)
Conner vs Simon Kenton; This will be a classic matchup between two of the area’s top Quarterbacks. Barker vs Kuntz. Conner has the better offense overall, the Pioneers take the edge in defense. Simon Kenton can only help to contain the Barker Avery Bricking runs the ball for Cooper. train, while putting up some numbers when they (Photo by Tony Tribble) have the ball. Time of possesion should determine the outcome in this one. Dixie vs Beechwood. Beechwood is back to looking like a state contender and Dixie has a tough squad again this year, should be a close game. Both teams are strong on both sides of the ball with the Tigers holding the slight edge. Dixie has the edge on offense and this one looks to be a dogfight. Week 4 the biggest game on the schedule will be Conner vs Ryle. Ryle upset a good Cooper team, clawing back from a late deficit to win 17-10. Conner will be test for the second week in a row.
Conner wide receiver Brian Loney carries for a TD (Photo by E.L.Hubbard)
Week 5 has two good games on tap, Dixie vs Newport Central Catholic and Simon Kenton vs Cooper. Richie Pauls fumbles the ball. Teams equally paired at this point in the season, but Cooper’s (Photo by Tony Tribble) Cooper is showing signs of last season and should have a couple more wins under their belt. Week 6 has a showdown match between the now #1 and #2 teams in the area, Highlands vs Covington Catholic. Both teams looked in midseason form early. Each quarterback is leading his team and the defenses are superb. It should be another monumental game, edge still going to Highlands at this point due to overall experience at the skill positions but that’s why they play the game.
Cooper wide receiver Aaron Morgan with a stiff arm on Newport Central Catholic’s Nate Enlsen. (Photo by Tony Tribble) NKY Sports Magazine − 10
Newport Central Catholic’s Jacob Raleigh cools off during their football game. (Photo by Tony Tribble)
pt. && Week 2 action In week two Cooper got in the win column with a tough fought win against an always tough Newport Central Catholic. 31-22. Some of the mistakes they made in the Ryle contest were put behind them and the offense came out on fire against a solid defense. William Ludwig passed for 208 yards and 3 touchdowns, Avery Bricking rushed for 125 yards in the win. Highlands put up 50 against the Campbell County Camels. Drew Houliston threw for over 300 yards and 4 TD’s and the defense gave up a late score on an Avery Wood toss. Boone County wide receiver Tony Leroy is brought down by Conner defensive back Brian Loney (Photo by E.L.Hubbard)
Newport Central Catholic coach gets his team ready to play Cooper. (Photo by Tony Tribble)
Boone County quarterback Aaron Floyd celebrates a TD (Photo by E.L.Hubbard)
The best game of the week was Covinton Catholic Boone Co. QB Aaron Floyd hands off to back Jerry Marshall vs Dixie. The Colonels came out on top with a hard running (Photo by E.L.Hubbard) fought 21-13 victory, and Dixie came away knowing they can play with the best in the area. CovCath jumped out to a 14-0 lead at half and looked like they had the game in control, but Dixie roared back in the third period with two scores, a missed PAT and it was 14-13, with one period to play. Star of the game was Sam Dressman who rushed for 99 yards and 1-TD, and on the other side, Dixie Quarterback, pumped it up with 207 yards in the air and 1-TD. The difference in the game was the 3 picks by CovCath defenders. Dixie won the yardage game by a whooping 371 to 240, but fell short in the scoring column. In other week 2 action-------------------------Simon Kenton 48-0 over Holy Cross Walton-Verona got its 2nd win of season with a 48-13 victory at Newport. Bellevue blasted Harlan 38-0 Grant County over Owen County 35-10 moving Grant to 2-0 Conner puts up 40 in the first half, game called due to heat index, and wins 40-7 over Boone County Ryle falls to 1-1 as they are beaten solidly by a really good Scott County team, (2012 6A runner-up) 5614. Lloyd got the offense in gear blasting Dayton, 6312 Beechwood showed how good they might be beating and Cincinnati GMC school Lima Senior 2014, in the Skyline Shootout.
Cooper’s Avery Bricking celebrates a touchdown with teamate Kyle Henderson. (Photo by Tony Tribble)
Marc Franzen runs the ball for Newport Central Catholic. (Photo by Tony Tribble) NKY Sports Magazine − 11
Volleyball
In our feature game, Beechwood hung with the mighty Notre Dame Pandas but fell 2-1. Beechwood played tough at the net all night against the much taller Panda club, ranked #1 in the NKY Sports Top Ten Poll. But size and experience finally wore down the Lady Tigers. 25-9, 19-25 and 25-13. Notre Dame traveled to Cincinnati to meets it’s Notre Dame counterpart Mt. Notre Dame in a matchup of two of the best teams in the Tri-State. Each match was better than the first with Mt. Notre Dame getting the better of it’s NKY sister. 3-1. 25-19, 25-21, 21-25 and 25-20. This match was particularly good for the Pandas in their quest to unseat the Louisville strangle hold in state competition. Ryle is off and running racking up wins to an 8-0 clip thus far. The Lady Raiders have been on fire and playing together as well as anyone in the area. On the 12th of September #1 Notre
Dame and #2 Ryle meet to see who is playing best right now. Ryle has only lost 3 total sets in route to their 8 wins, it should be fun to watch these two teams match up against each other. Simon Kenton is making some noise amoung the bigger schools, jumping out to an 7-2 record. Their only two losses have come from Lexington Christian and Scott. They did not play well in the Scott loss dropping two straight sets, but this team has promise. Boone County is unblemished in two matches, and is should be tough again this year. They have some experience left over from last season an could make it deep in the tournament if they can keep up the consistent play. St. Henry has a 7-3 start and as expected will be very tough on opponents this season. Their only losses to date have come from big schools in Cincinnati, Mt. Notre Dame and Mercy and Assumption in Louisville. They have a tough schedule and it makes them dangerous when tournament time comes around.
Top: Notre Dame’s Lauren Hollman gets the ball past Beechwood’s Jenna Fessler . Notre Dame defeated Beechwood in Girls Volleyball(25-9, 19-25, 25-13) (Photo by Tony Tribble Bottom: Notre Dame’s Lauren Hollman and Micaela Stephenson, watch as the ball gets past Beechwood’s Jenna Fessler. Photo by Tony Tribble)
NKY Sports Magazine − 12
Small School Walton-Verona has jumped out of to an impressive 9-1 record while dropping only 4 total sets. Their lone loss came at the hands of Lloyd in the Ludlow classic 2-1. These girls can make a run this year, they have good teams chemistry and a lot of talent.
Scott High School has been known for good volleyball in the area and this season they are showing signs of recovering their old form as they start the season 4-3. They have big wins over Beechwood, Highlands and Simon Kenton. Their losses have come from very good opponents, Notre Dame, Campbell County and McCracken County. This club has the potential and can play with any team in the area, but not beat them at this point.
Lloyd has been a nice surprise this season at 7-5, but needs to gain the experience to keep consistent play throughout matches. They can play with the better teams but sometimes slips when playing teams they should beat.
Cooper is now 6-2 and their only losses come from #1 Notre Dame (0-2) and #2 Ryle (0-2). After those two powerhouses, the Lady Jags have reeled off 13 sets in piling up the 6 victories. They are near the top, not elite yet.
The Lady Mustangs from Brossart are 4-1, with quality wins over Lloyd, (3-0), Calvary Christian and Augusta in the “All A Classic”. Their lone defeat was at the hands of Cooper, (0-3). They have good balance in their starting unit, a little weaker coming off the bench and have a tough schedule that will test their true abilities.
Ludlow is 5-3 to start the season and looking promising this season. Quality wins include, Calvary Christian (much improved) and Bellevue. Lloyd, Walton-Verona and St. Henry dropped the Lady Panthers in straight sets. They are young and will improve to an even better club over the next couple seasons. Bottom Right: Notre Dame’s Elly Ogle (6) tries to get the ball past Beechwood’s Taylor Weibel (Photo by Tony Tribble)
Notre Dame’s Alicia Von Handor. (Photo by Tony Tribble)
Beechwood’s Brook Del Barba tries to the ball past two Notre Dame players.. (Photo by Tony Tribble)
Campbell County has been one of the most up and down teams to date. Their 3-6 record should be better, but they have played a tough schedule to date, losing to Cincinnati Anderson, Tates Creek and Simon Kenton. Wins over Scott, Dixie and Harrison County have shown signs of a team that can be really good at times. Consistency will be the key to this club, but they are young and have a good program.
Holy Cross is 3-2 and playing up to what has been expected at this point in the season. The Lady Indians have good wins over a tough Beechwood team and a good Villa Madonna squad. Losses against St. Henry and Newport Central Catholic were not surprises at this point in season. Look for them to get stronger as they gain experience throughout this season.
Villa Madonna 3-2 this year pulled off a big wins over Lloyd and Grant County. While dropping expected losses to St. Henry and and a tough loss to Holy Cross in 9th region “All A Classic”
NKY Sports Magazine − 13
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NKY Sports Magazine − 14
FREEDOM’S TANIS NAMED LEAGUE’S MVP FLORENCE, KY – The Florence Freedom are pleased to announce third baseman Jacob Tanis has been named as the Frontier League’s Most Valuable Player.
player for us both offensively and defensively. He’s a great teammate and one of the most professional young men I’ve ever had the privilege to manage.” Tanis, in his first season with the Freedom, was also recognized on the league’s post-season all-star team as the top third baseman. He wins these honors after not making the Frontier League’s mid-season classic as an all-star.
Tanis, 24, was elected the Morgan Burk Award winner as the MVP by managers, coaches, general managers and members of the league’s media. Through 91 games this season, the Peachtree, Georgia native is fourth in the league with 17 home runs, and leads the league with 72 RBIs. “We’re so excited to honor Jacob as the MVP,” Freedom manager Fran Riordan said. “He has been such a productive
Top 10 Fall Sports Teams NKY
Football
1. Highlands 2. Covington Catholic 3. Conner 4. Simon Kenton 5. Beechwood 6. Dixie 7. Cooper 8. Scott 9. Ryle 10. Newport CC
Girls Soccer
2-0 2-0 1-0 2-0 1-0 0-1 1-1 2-0 1-0 1-1
1. Notre Dame Academy 2-1 2. Ryle 3-0-1 3. Campbell County 4-0-1 4. Boone County 5-1 5. Bishop Brossart 4-1 6. Dixie 4-1 7. Simon Kenton 4-2 8. Newport CC 3-1 9. Beechwood 4-2-1 10. Ludlow 4-2
Volleyball
1. Notre Dame Academy 2. Ryle 3. Boone County 4. St. Henry 5. Simon Kenton 6. Walton-Verona 7. Bishop Brossart 8. Cooper 9. Holy Cross 10. Beechwood
4-1 9-0 2-0 7-3 7-2 9-1 4-1 6-2 3-2 2-3
Boys Golf
No Results Posted at Press Time
Boys Soccer 1. Scott 2. Boone County 3. Bishop Brossart 4. Covington Catholic 5. Campbell County 6. Newport CC 7. St. Henry 8. Highlands 9. Simon Kenton 10. Pendleton County
4-0-1 4-1-1 5-1 2-3 5-1 4-1-1 3-2-1 2-3-1 3-3 4-2
Girls Golf
No Results Posted at Press Time
Check back next month for top area players and teams.
NKY Sports Magazine − 15
Player of the Month Drew Barker Conner Cougars-QB By Patricia A. Scheyer Drew Barker, the 17-year-old quarterback for Conner High School in Hebron, is in a very good place this year. Not only is he the lead player on
the football team, he also maintains a 3.4 grade point average, and received a 23 on his ACT test for college entrance. Drew doesn’t have to worry about gaining entrance into a college, because this December he will officially sign to play football for the University of Kentucky.
Photo by E.L. Hubbard
“I will actually graduate from Conner early, in December, so I will enroll at UK in January,” said Drew. “Obviously I can’t play football in the spring semester, so I will probably start in the fall as a red shirt freshman and practice with the team, unless they would give me play time in the games, in which case I wouldn’t be classified as a red shirt. UK has two quarterbacks that will be juniors next year, Jalen Whitlow and Maxwell Smith, so I may not get playing time.” Drew lives in Burlington, but spent
NKY Sports Magazine − 16
grades 1 through 5 at Blessed Sacrament in Ft Mitchell. Then he attended Conner Middle School for grades 6 to 8, and is finishing up Conner High School. Football has been an integral part of Drew’s life since he was six. His parents put him in the Boone County Peewee Football league, and he played for the Blackhawks for four years, the Panthers for two years, and the Longhorns for a year until he played for Conner’s freshman team in the eighth grade. “I wasn’t always a quarterback---I was a running back while I was on the Panthers,” Drew explained. “I was very attracted to football at first because I liked the ‘hit—being hit’ philosophy, and it was great being out there on the field. As I have
grown older, I realize football also teaches about life. It shows you how to handle adversity—when you go as far as you can, and your back is against the wall, you have to think fast and try to come out on top; you can’t give up. It also teaches you how to communicate, because if you are a quarterback, you have to communicate with your team so you can win.” Coach Dave Trosper calls the plays in the Conner football games, but he allows Drew to audible the plays if he needs to, and Drew says he audibles the plays about 60 to 70 percent of the time. “I do have a good grasp of what
is going on when I am out on the field,” said Drew.
weights and then runs to keep up strength and endurance.
Drew keeps up on his schoolwork, and is in the zoology program at Conner. His favorite subject is biology, or any science, but he doesn’t plan on going into science as a career.
In his off time, Drew relaxes by listening to music and playing video games. He likes to hang out with his friends, especially his best friend, Andrew Way, who is also on the team. Drew said that one of the reasons he likes going to UK is that he has several friends at the school and going there feels like going home.
“I have a plan to graduate from college in 3 ½ years, and try to play pro ball,” Drew explained. “I am really not particular about what team I play for---being in the NFL is a dream all by itself. I will go into sports marketing to have a career after football, and finish my masters degree in the fifth year.” Drew has no girlfriend at the moment because his schedule is busy enough that there would be no time. He practices four to five hours every day except Sunday. He is not on a special diet although he said his mother always makes sure he drinks milk and has enough protein. Before every game, Drew said the coaches take the team out for dinner a little after four at a restaurant like Olive Garden or Chick-fil-a to make sure the team eats right. “They also bring in a pastor to help us get in the right frame of mind for the game,” said Drew. To train for the games, the team watches films of the opposition teams. Most days the team spends time in the weight room lifting
This year Conner’s team has changed their defensive strategy a little, just to keep things fresh. “Our line is pretty good,” Drew said. “We have four good receivers, and I think our season is going to be very good. Probably our stiffest competition is Cooper, but we have to be ready for all the teams.” In the meantime, Drew plans to be busy. He was named to the Elite Eleven, the list of top quarterbacks in the country, in July, putting him in the company of Tim Tebow and Aaron Rod, both players Drew admires. He is scheduled to play in the US Army All American game at the Alamo Dome in San Antonio on January 4, as one of six quarterbacks in the country selected to play. Drew is the son of Terry and Ellie Barker, his very proud parents who live in Burlington. He also has an older sister, Taylor, who is also proud of her baby brother. NKY Sports Magazine − 17
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Area Cheerleaders
Top Left: Ryle Cheerleader prepares for game (photo by Tony Tribble) Top Middle: Conner Cheerleading Squad Top Right: Boone County with lift Bottom Left: Holy Cross 2013 Squad Bottom Right: Conner Cheerleader applauds another Cougar Touchdown (photos by E.L. Hubbard)
NKY Sports Magazine − 19
Ponzer nets goal to give NKU Women 1-0 Victory
Allison Ponzer reacting after scoring the winning goal in the Norse’s 1-0 win over Tennessee Tech. Photo by Jeff McCurry, NKU sports information
HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. – Allison Ponzer netted a goal in the 84th minute to give the Northern Kentucky University women’s soccer team a 1-0 victory over Tennessee Tech on Sunday afternoon.Megan Frye started the play with a perfect pass into the box, where Ponzer tapped the ball past Tennessee Tech goalie Jordan Brown into the back of the net. It was the first goal of the
season for the Norse, who outshot the Golden Eagles by a 24-10 margin. Ponzer, a senior from Simon Kenton High School, scored her first goal since the 2011 season with the winning marker on Sunday. A year ago, she finished with a team-leading six assists.Tanner Ruberg collected three saves and earned her second shutout of the season for Northern Kentucky, which improved to 1-2-1. Ruberg,
who was named Atlantic Sun Conference Defensive Player of the Week last Monday, lowered her goals against average to 0.95 and has 23 saves this season. Brown finished with 10 saves for Tennessee Tech, which dropped to 0-4 this season. A year ago, Tennessee edged Northern Kentucky, 3-2, in Cookeville, Tenn. The series between the two programs is now tied at 1-1.
NKU Men play Uk to 1-1 draw, in front of record crowd HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. – Ian O’Reilly scored a goal late in the second half Sunday night as Northern Kentucky University earned a 1-1 draw against the University of Kentucky in a men’s soccer exhibition game in front of a crowd of 1,462 at the NKU Soccer Stadium. Norse goalie A.J. Fleak assisted on O’Reil-
ly’s goal, which came in the 84th minute and enabled NKU to tie the contest at 1-all. After Kentucky’s Caleb Richardson picked up his second yellow card and was sent off the field, Fleak sent a long kick downfield into the box. O’Reilly beat a pair of Wildcat defenders and sent a header into the net for the
tying marker. Kentucky took a 1-0 lead at the 29:42 mark when Tyler Riggs finished off a lead pass from Richardson with a 12-yard strike into the back of the net. The Wildcats maintained that advantage until the 84th minute.
Butler in 3-0 win over lady norse INDIANAPOLIS – Kelly Mahoney and Sophia Maccagnone netted goals in the first 12 minutes as Butler posted a 3-0 win over visiting Northern Kentucky on Wednesday night in a women’s soccer match.Mahoney began the scoring at the NKY Sports Magazine − 20
7:48 mark by directing a header off a corner kick by Stephanie Kaylor into the net. Less than four minutes later, Butler took a 2-0 lead when Maccagnone sent a 25-yard shot past NKU goalie Tanner Ruberg.Ali Backscheider gave Butler a 3-0
lead in the 38th minute by finishing off a rebound shot that Tanner had saved from just in front of the goal. The Bulldogs (2-1) owned a 27-4 advantage in shot attempts and held a 6-0 edge in corner kicks in the first meeting between the
two programs. Ruberg, who was named Atlantic Sun Conference Defensive Player of the Week on Monday, recorded seven saves for NKU (0-2-1). Goalie Julie Burton earned the shutout for Butler, which held the Norse without a shot on goal.Maccagnone added an assist for Butler, which is now 9-1-3 at home during the last two seasons. The Bulldogs posted a 12-5-4 overall record last season. Megan Frye and Casey McMillan each attempted two shots for NKU, which returns home to meet Tennessee Tech at noon Sunday. The Norse then hit the road next Friday to meet Morehead State at 7 p.m. in Morehead, Ky.
NKU volleyball defeats Wright State in four sets
ance much of the match and allowed the home team to pull out the hard-fought win in front of a raucous crowd. “I think what really helped us this game was our serving,” NKU head coach Liz Hart said. “We hit a lot of aces and kept them out of system, which is going to help our defense. It was a great turnout by our fans. We appreciate them coming, and I think they make a big difference. Not our best game, but it’s a win and we’re going to make the adjustments for this weekend.” Snyder, a graduate of Newport Central Catholic who has stepped in for graduated All-Atlantic Sun Conference setter Jenna Schreiver, added three kills, two aces and two blocks. Simpson contributed three block assists as the Norse finished with a team total of nine blocks. Several of the veterans also enjoyed solid performances in the victory. Junior
12 digs and two aces, while sophomore defensive specialist Mel Stewart recorded 15 digs. “We had some aggressive serving which forced them into overpasses, and Chuck (Jenna Ruble) was able to put them away,” Hart said. “She did a really good job, she’s one of our most experienced hitters, so we’re going to rely on her a lot this year. She did a good job and made a lot of good choices.” With the score knotted at 21-all in the fourth set, Ruble keyed the Norse’s match-ending 4-1 run. She hammered down a kill to give Northern Kentucky a 22-21 lead and followed with an ace to extend the advantage to 23-21. Jayden Julian converted an attack to give the Norse a 24-22 edge, and Creamer ended the match with a kill off an assist from Snyder.
The Norse – who opened the HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. – A Volleyball B ox S core refurbished court in Regents season against Clemson, No. Wright State vs Northern Kentucky (Sep 03, 2013 at Highland Heights, Ky) 7 Michigan and Xavier – imHall and a new-look startAttack S erve B lock Wright S tate S K E TA P ct Ast S A S E RE Dig B S B A B E B HE P ts ing lineup greeted Northern proved to 1-3, while Wright SENF, Ellen 3 3 0 9 .333 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 GARR, Haley 4 2 5 12 - . 250 0 0 2 1 3 1 2 1 0 Kentucky University volleyState dropped to 1-4. Northern AIELLO, Marisa 4 12 0 16 .750 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 SPLINTER, Heidi 4 13 5 45 .178 1 0 1 2 9 0 1 0 0 ball fans in the Norse’s home Kentucky also defeated Wright RUFFING, Stephanie 2 1 4 8 - . 375 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 MENG, Emily 4 2 1 4 .250 39 2 1 0 11 0 1 1 1 opener Tuesday night against State a year ago in Dayton, Ohio. GREEN, Carleigh 4 0 0 0 .000 1 0 0 1 8 0 0 0 0 PUTHOFF, Miranda 4 0 0 0 .000 0 2 2 4 13 0 0 0 0 Wright State. LANGJAHR, Ashley 2 5 3 12 .167 0 0 3 1 0 0 1 0 0 GLASSMEYER, Katie 4 0 0 0 .000 0 1 2 3 7 0 0 0 0 Northern Kentucky’s newNorthern Kentucky is now 11-12 SMITH, Alana 3 5 6 29 - . 034 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 Totals 4 43 24 135 .141 42 5 12 12 59 2 6 2 1 comers then produced in all-time against Wright State. Team Attack B y S et TOTAL TEAM BLOCKS: 5.0 big-time fashion during a Set K E TA Pct S E T S CORE S 1 2 3 4 Team Records: 1 7 7 32 .000 Wright State (1) 12 25 21 22 1-4 2 13 4 36 .250 25-12, 22-25, 25-21, 25-22 The Norse visit Oxford, Ohio, on Northern Kentucky (3) 25 22 25 25 1-3 3 13 8 36 .139 4 10 5 31 .161 win over visiting Wright Saturday for matches against State. Freshman outside hitter Evansville at 11 a.m. and host Attack S erve B lock Northern Kentucky S K E TA P ct Ast S A S E RE Dig B S B A B E B HE P ts Tristen Simpson recorded Miami (Ohio) at 7 p.m. FREPPON, Kaela Jo 4 7 4 17 .176 2 3 2 1 7 0 0 0 0 a career-high 12 kills and SIMPSON, Tristen 4 12 3 23 .391 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 SNYDER, Taylor 4 3 0 5 .600 30 2 1 0 10 0 2 0 2 CREAMER, Keely 4 6 2 19 .211 1 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 - still learning this team’s attacked at a .391 clip, while “I’m RUBLE, Jenna 4 11 4 29 .241 0 1 0 0 2 2 2 1 0 JULIAN, Jayden 4 5 6 32 - . 031 0 2 0 0 6 0 1 0 0 personality in terms of what are freshman setter Taylor Snyder STEWART, Mel 4 0 0 0 .000 0 1 1 1 15 0 0 0 0 HURLEY, Lauren 3 0 0 0 .000 0 1 1 1 6 0 0 0 0 collected a double-double (30 their strengths and weakness, PRICKEL, Anna 4 0 0 0 .000 6 2 0 0 12 0 0 0 0 WANSTRATH, Megan 2 2 0 5 .400 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 1 0 assists, 10 digs) in her home and who can come ready to play Totals 4 46 19 130 .208 39 12 5 5 60 2 14 2 2 debut on the spiffy, newly every match,” Hart said. “I think Team Attack B y S et TOTAL TEAM BLOCKS: 9.0 Set K E TA Pct finished Regents Hall court. this year is going to be just 1 11 2 25 .360 Site: Highland Heights, Ky (Regents Hall) 2 11 4 41 .171 Date: Sep 03, 2013 Attend: 422 Time: 1:54 In addition, freshman outside figuring it out on the fly, seeing 3 13 4 32 .281 Referees: Don Goodwin, Emi Vishoot 4 11 9 32 .062 hitter Keely Creamer added how they do and who comes six kills and five block assists, ready to play each day, and while transfer Kaela Jo Freppon served up middle hitter Jenna Ruble collected 11 kills hopefully we can get a little bit more stathree of the Norse’s 12 aces. The Norse and four blocks. Senior libero Anna Prickel bility out on the court. In the meantime, serving game kept Wright State off balanchored the back row and finished with we’re going to play whoever’s hot.” ## 2 3 5 9 13 15 1 6 7 8 11
## 8 10 11 14 17 21 1 6 13 16
NKY Sports Magazine − 21
By Patricia A. Scheyer Notre Dame Academy in Park Hills has always been famous for its volleyball team. Over the years the Pandas have racked up 32 runner up state titles and 29 state championships in 12 sports, including basketball, bass fishing ,bowling, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track and volleyball and Lacrosse, which is a club sport. Heidi Thelen, a 16-year-old senior from Edgewood, tried a lot of different sports at St Pius in Edgewood, and finally realized that volleyball was a good fit for her. “My mom and dad played basketball, and so did my older brother,” said Heidi. “I tried it, but I really liked volleyball. It was like that was the sport that fit me. I didn’t like the contact sports. I fell in love with volleyball, and played it in seventh and eighth grades under my coaches Matt Long and Theresa Schreiber.” When Heidi moved up to Notre Dame, everyone who watched her play knew she was a natural for volleyball. Heidi is 6 foot 2 inches tall, a little taller than her mother, who is 6 foot, but shorter than her dad and older brother, who are both 6 foot 6 inches tall. Heidi assumed the position of middle hitter on Notre Dame’s team, and her job is to block the other team’s spikes, and to spike the ball for her team. She has done her job so well that when Penn State came to see her play in the eighth grade, they offered her a full four year scholarship to come and play volleyball for them when she graduates. She has been to their camp during the past three summers. She officially signs with the college in September. “Two other girls on my team have full scholarships, one to Xavier, and one to LSU,” said Heidi. “My cousin Abby plays on the team, and she is really good, too. She is six foot tall.”
NKY Sports Magazine − 22
Heidi has piled up the awards during her tenure at high school. She is first team KVCA, All District All Regional All State for three years, NKGVCA Division three First Team for three years, Prep Volleyball top 50 players in the country for three years, First Team AAA, Best Offensive Player, and Northern Kentucky Player of the Year. Even though she is a natural, Heidi still puts in the practice hours to ensure her skills are constantly honed. Practices are five times a week, for 2 ½ to 3 hours each. She is not necessarily on a specialized diet, however. “I don’t eat a lot of junk food,” Heidi explained. “I don’t drink soft drinks. There is no special diet, but my mom makes sure I eat healthy. I get a lot of exercise.” She also gets A’s and B’s in her classwork. Heidi has a definite yearning to be a nurse anesthetist when she grows up, or rather, when she is older. Her favorite subject is math, but she admits she is now taking an anatomy class which she finds ‘intriguing’. Heidi has just been released medically to go back to playing the game she loves after having been injured with tendonitis in her Achilles tendon. She was under orders to rest the injured limb, and do certain exercises, along with wearing lifts in her shoes. She is looking forward to getting back to playing volleyball. But Heidi knows how to wind down and relax when she is not on the volleyball court. She loves movies, and craves some down time in the basement with recent movies, preferably ones starring Angelina Jolie or Ryan Gsling. Her best friend, Rachel, who is not as tall, and doesn’t play sports, provides a good change from the grueling schedule of weekly volleyball games. Heidi doesn’t have a boyfriend right now, and mostly she thinks that is a good thing because she really hasn’t a nickels worth of time to
Player of the Month Heidi Thelen Notre Dame Academy Pandas Middle Hitter give to a relationship. Heidi has a few goals that she would like to achieve. “First of all, I want to win state at the end of this season, which is held November 8th and
ninth,” Heidi stated. “Then I would love to go to the 2017 Olympics with a volleyball team. Penn State is a good place to go to the tryouts from. Christa Harmotto went to Penn State, and then to the Olympics, and she brought home a silver medal. I really want to do that, and maybe win gold.” Heidi would also like to be named State of Kentucky Player of the Year this year, and Gatorade Player of the year, as more short term goals. Anything is possible for this soonto-be 17-year-old young lady who has a lot of talent, looks and intelligence, but has her head on straight and knows exactly where she is going and what she wants out of life.
NKY Sports Magazine − 23
No Doubt About It!!
Highlands defensive lineman Matt Gall (71) celebrates his fumble recovery against University Christian during their game at Highlands in Fort Thomas (E.L. Hubbard photo)
highlands-47 university christian-17
Game of the Month
NKY Sports Magazine − 24
T
By Patricia A. Scheyer
he hot, humid air on the football field was full of tension as two state championship teams took the field last Saturday for the first game of the 2013 season. Although both teams, University
“
We have a lot of good football players Highlands Coach Dale Mueller said simply. “That is the key to good winning football players
,”
----
”
Christian and Highlands, knew there would ultimately be a winner and a loser, the athletes took their places knowing they were all accustomed to winning, and if it was in their individual power, they would make their team win. In the beginning quarter of Saturday’s game, the Bluebirds had some trouble finding their wings, and quarterback Drew Houliston began his starter career by throwing an interception and turning the ball over on a fumble. But the blue and white clad football players kept flooding onto the field, undeterred by mistakes, keeping offense and defense fresh. “We have a lot of good football players,” Highlands Coach Dale Mueller said simply. “That is the key to winning----good football players. Along with that is the fact that we don’t cut anybody. If someone comes out and is willing to try hard for the team, he is on the team. We have 96 players and we are able to send good players in fresh almost every play. It does wear down
Top: An ESPN camerman films the game between University Christian (Fla) and Highlands in Fort Thomas Saturday, Bottom: University Christian’s (Fla) Tamarius Bowe is taken down by Highlands Joey Cochran during their game at Highlands (E.L. Hubbard photo)
other teams who don’t have the bench depth.” Because of their good football players, the Bluebirds won over the Christians, 47-17. But the win included passes caught by eight different receivers, a nod to the talent on the deep bench. Each year there is a turnover, as
Highlands quarterback Drew Houliston finds his receiver for a two-point conversion during their game against University Christian (E.L. Hubbard photo)
the school graduates the stars of the previous year’s football season, and the juniors take over the leadership roles, and Mueller is never worried. “This is a whole community thing,” he explained. “There is a level of excellence sought after in Ft. Thomas that carries over into football. We have working families here, who value hard work, and our players know that working hard for something pays off. We lost 33 players last year, including NKY Sports Magazine − 25
Socc
Boys NKY Soccer Bishop Brossart Boys lost their first match of the season, a 1-0 set back at the hands of Scott and Luke Treadway’s goal in the waning minutes of the match. The Mushtangs are now 5-1 and have a very good chance of going deep in the tournament this season. They are balance and have 5 seniors that return from a good club a year ago. The defense has only allowed 3 goals while posting 25 goals to start of impressive in this 2013 campaign. Scott is undefeated at 4-0-1, they were crusing when they ran into a shootout with Cooper. The game ended in a 6-6 tie in a game that went back and forth with many stars in that contest. Scott has the Brossart victory, along with big wins over Simon Kenton and Dixie. This team has what it takes to make back to state this season, but must play defense the entire game against the big boys. Campbell County Camels have started the season 5-1 and is a force in the area as one of the top teams. Their lone loss came at the hands of a very good Covinton Catholic team (1-6). Other than CovCath, the Camels have outscored their opponents 20-3. They are good, but only time remains to see if they can play with the best. Covington Catholic at first glance with a 2-3 record would appear that they are having a down season. Their losses this season have been to Cincinnati soccer powerhouse Elder and Louisville Trinty. The colonels may be one of the best in NKY even with their auspisious start. Rounding out the other good soccer clubs is Boone County at 4-1-1 and Newport Central Catholic 4-1-1. Both clubs will be contenders come tournament time. Boone County lone loss to a very good and a constant at state Tates Creek. NCC only loss was their first game set back to the Bluebirds of Highlands 2-1.. NKY Sports Magazine − 26
Holy Cross midfielder/forward Kate Dreas moves the ball as Ryle defender Karlene Zembrodt covers her during their game at Rosedale Park in Covington Wednesday, August 21, 2013. (E.L. Hubbard photo)
cer
Holy Cross defender Makenzie Thelen clears the ball away from Ryle forward Kit Thelen (E.L. Hubbard photo)
Girls NKY Soccer On the girls side, only Campbell County and Ryle remain unblemished. The Lady Camels 4-0-1 and Ryle at 3-0-1. Both clubs have come out playing good team soccer and have a lot of talent up and down the field. Ryle has big wins over Holy Cross and Newport Central Catholic and Dixie. Campbell County has gotten the best of Conner, Louisville Male and Mercy. Both clubs have their tied games against a good Highlands team. Boone County could be a very good team this year in NKY their only loss to Laurel County in a shut out 3-0. They have beaten Simon Kenton, Scott and Grant County.
Ryle midfielder Lydia Murphy shoots for a goal as Holy Cross covers her at the net (E.L. Hubbard photo)
Dixie is coming together as a team this season and it is showing in their 4-1 record. Their only defeat at the hands of the Ryle Raiders. Dixie has quality wins over Cooper and Scott so far this season. Newport Central Catholic is 3-1 and has only yeilded 2 goals. One of them in their 1-0 loss to Ryle. They are tough and speedy, this team will contend for a title this season.
Holy Cross defender Brenna D’Amico and Ryle forward Anevey Fangman battle during their game at Rosedale Park in Covington (E.L. Hubbard photo)
Notre Dame is good, it’s early and they have one loss to Cincinnati St. Ursula (1-0). The have beaten Highlands 3-0 and also shutout Lexington Catholic 2-0. Their program speaks for itself and this team will be at or around the top when the season ends. Bishop Brossart is 3-1 and loaded with potential. Their only loss this season at the hands of a very good West Jessamine club 3-1. Solid wins over Highlands and St. Henry put this team near the top of the early polls. Rounding out St. Henry 1-2-1 and Beechwood 4-2-1. Both have quality players and can hang with some of the good teams. However inexperience will hurt them this season. NKY Sports Magazine − 27
No Doubt it!
continued from page 26
Donovan McCoy, our All State Quarterback for all of Kentucky, and now we have Drew Houliston, who I expect will achieve that title, too.” There was no pep rally before the game at the school, because Coach Mueller said the school values its academic time, and pep rallies take students out of class. Players were a little apprehensive Thursday night at practice, frustratedwhen they couldn’t get a knowledge of the fighting Christian team because the school had 21 new transfers of juniors and seniors who were too new to have film of their capabilities on the field.
win. John Kemplin, 17 and on the offensive line, said many of the players have been Varsity ready since grade school. John is sitting out the game Saturday with a stress fracture of his spine. Josh Watson, 17, will also be sitting on the sidelines with a torn ACL, says it is difficult to sit on the sidelines, and he would love to be
Assistant Head Coach Brian Weinrich was not surprised by the pre-game tension in the players.
“We just want to win,” said 17-year-old junior safety Griffin Urlage. “We haven’t really worked on any new plays, we just want to do our plays well. I’m really excited though—I think it will be a good game, and maybe we will win 34 to 21.”
“Tension---that’s what a game is,” he said. “We worry about the games one at a time. We are looking at Saturday right now. The first thing is showing up.”
Coach Mueller had a different take on the transfers at their rival school.
Highlands quarterback Drew Houliston carries the ball against University Christian during their game at Highlands (E.L. Hubbard photo)
“It must be a very good school if that many students want to transfer in,” Mueller said. “At Highlands we let everybody play and show what they’ve got. We use all of our resources.”
in the game.
Fifteen-year-old sophomore wide receiver Chandler New felt that the game would be close, but said confidently that they would NKY Sports Magazine − 28
Houliston is well on his way to filling his predecessor’s shoes, completing 13 of 15 passes in the second half to put the game out of reach for the Christians, in front of a sold out home crowd and a national audience courtesy of ESPNU. Despite the fact that there wasn’t a legal parking space within a mile of David Cecil Memorial stadium in Ft Thomas, everyone seemed to enjoy that their Bluebirds came back from a 10 to 0 lead by the University Christians in the first half to wear the opposition down and win the game resoundingly.
“Whether we win or not on Saturday depends on how we play as a team,” he stated.The Highlands Bluebirds have won the state championship for the last six years under the leadership of Coach Dale Mueller. After this game the Bluebirds’ record is 88 and 3 over the last six seasons.
Coach Dale Mueller knew what winning the game would mean. “This means a lot to the guys--really, to all of us,” he stated. “Winning sets the tone for the season, but we will try hard all year. I know whether we win or lose, we will be here on Sunday looking at the films. What we expect from our players is that they do their best. And we expect that of whatever our players attempt to do. This is a fraternity of guys. We all help our team win.”
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Players to Watch C o nt i nu ed
Soccer Luke Treadway, Scott,
Senior. Luke has been rated amoung the top soccer palyers in greater Cincinnati since first taking up the sport at a very young age. He has all the skills, quick to the ball, good passer and great scorer. At present he is injured but looks to make it back out on the field where he has helped his Scott Eagle team to a district runner-up last season.
Will Fugazzi, St.Henry,
Senior. Will is playing his final season at St. Henry and it should be a good one. Fugazzi is a scorer and good overall defender. He should help bolster coach Steve Hahn’s squad and secure another winning season.
Cory Knaley, Simon Kenton, Senior. Cory is a big part of a talented Pioneer
club that should be even better than the very successful season they had in 2012. Knaley is quick and around the goal his is a prolific scorer. He is like having coach on the field.
Tyler Smith, Simon Kenton Senior. Smith doubles as the Pioneer place kicker
on the football team. He has a strong leg and good when he gets around the goal. With Smith and Knaley, coach Jeremy Wolfe should be pretty excited.
Maddie Tierney, Notre Dame, Senior. Maddie is simply the best soccer player in Northern Kentucky. She earned all-state honors as a junior, and should be well on her way to repeat that and maybe more. Notre Dame fell one goal short of the State Championship and should be knocking at the door again this season. With Tierney they can, she has all the gifts, speed, strength, good footwork and can score against anybody. Maddie has signed to play and continue her career next season with Xavier, this should be a record setting year for the senior. NKY Sports Magazine − 30
Football Brenan Kuntz, Simon Kenton senior, 6’3” QB. Much has been expected from
Brenan from the time he was playing in middle school. He has now entered his senior year. The year it’s supposed to all come together. In the first two games he has not disappointed anyone. He is stong, tall and quick. He has a very good arm and reads defenses quickly making good decisions on the field. Kuntz has become the leader and should be a big year for the senior
Alex Howard, Campbell CountySenior 5’10” Runningback. Howard
is quick in hitting holes and if he gets behind the linebackers he can run a long time. He has some very shifty moves and will cause problems for opposing defenses. Howard should enjoy a solid senior season for the Camels.
Josh Castleman, ScottSenior 5’10” Running back. Castleman is a part of a
very interesting offense used by the Eagles this season and it’s working for this senior. After 2-games Josh has racked up 235 yards. He is not a big or overpowering runner, but he is very elusive. Just when defenders think they have him, he’s gone.
Grant Wassom, Simon Kenton, Senior 6’0’ Wide Receiver. Wassom is a very fluid and athletic receiver. Great hands and deceptive speed. He runs his routes with precision and great timing and knows how to get open. This will be Grant’s breakout season and he could set some records along the way.
Ryan Hill, Ryle, Senior 5’8” Wide Receiver. Hill is small but very hard to defend. After 2 contest he is the
leading receiver in the area. He has good hands and quick feet. He knows how to run a route and improvise when his QB is in trouble. Hill makes a huge impact and makes the most of his size and speed.
Volleyball Jenna Fessler, Beechwood , senior. Fessler is the setter for the Lady
Tiger volleyball team. She is one the best at that position in the area. She is quick to the ball knows where all her hitters are at all times and delivers the ball. Jenna is fun to watch, because she is good at what she does.
Elly Ogle, Notre Dame Senior. Ogle and Thelen have been considered the
best two volleball players to play together in a long time. Ogle is bound for LSU, next fall but this season nothing short of a championship will satisfy. When we talk about talented setters, there are a few that turn your head at their talent, but Ogle is in another level. She simply is the best at this position in NKY. She is dead on accurate and makes her heavy hitters look really good. Her defense is nothing short of stellar and this could be the year a school who is not from Louisville wins the whole thing. NKY Sports Magazine − 31
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NKY Sports Magazine − 32