Spring Valley Area
SPORTS PREVIEW
FEATURING: St. Peter Saints, Le Sueur-Henderson Giants, Tri-City United Titans and Cleveland Clippers Le Sueur County News | St. Peter Herald Wednesday, April 10, 2019 • Thursday, April 11, 2019
St. Peter softball team shoots for state three-peat By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
St. Peter Softball COACHES Head coach: Heidi Niemeyer 6th year as head coach, 19th year coaching softball in St. Peter Assistant coaches: Dani Roehrkasse – 3rd year at SPHS Tom Witty – 43nd year coaching; 22nd year at SPHS Amanda Rodning – 6th year coaching at SPHS RETURNING STARTERS “Senior captain Mackenzie Brey is just one of those players’” Niemeyer said. “She is determined to go out on the mound and give it her all. One of her biggest strengths is her no fear mentality. She thrives in those moments when everything is on the line. She has great speed and movement on her pitches and is one of the best fielding pitchers I have seen. Another key strength for Mackenzie is her experience. Her focus on softball for so many years really sets her apart. She is a strong leader on and off the field with great character who can successfully motivate her teammates. She broke her own season strikeout record last year at 108. She was also a member of the MN State All Tournament team in 2018. “McKenna Reese, a senior captain, was a surprising addition to our team last year as she rounded out our outfield. She covers a ton of ground in the outfield and makes some amazing catches because of her all in attitude. She was the leader in one of the best outfields we have
St. Peter pitcher Mackenzie Brey goes from first to third on a double by Ellie Johnson last season. (St. Peter Herald file photo)
had in a few years. She is fast on the base path and gets hits in clutch situations. “Junior captain Allie McCabe is the firecracker behind the plate. Her leadership on the field is paramount. She knows what play and pitch to call. She has an amazing pop behind the plate and can defend the bunt like none other I have coached. She controls the base runners well with her solid accurate through downs and does not allow many passed balls. She has a love for the game that is contagious. “Liv Stevens, a junior, walked into the role of third baseman and
backup pitcher as a sophomore last year and soon claimed the lead-off spot in our line up. She is a clutch hitter who also has good speed on the bases. She has a strong arm and good foot work on defense. She has a mean change up on the mound as well. She claimed a spot on the MN State All Tournament team last year as a sophomore and with this experience she is bound to do great things this season. “Junior Shelby Paul was another exciting player to watch grow into a pivotal outfielder and spot in the line up. She came up with some timely hits in the State Tournament
to gain a spot on the MN State All Tournament team.” MOVED ON Graduated letter winners are Olivia McCabe (playing softball at St. Ben’s), Xandra Zachman (playing softball at Gustavus Adolphus College), Ellie Johnson, Kayla Oeltjenbruns, Mara Johnson. 2018 SEASON OUTLOOK 1. Last year’s overall record for the Saints was 21-6. The Saints went 10-2 in the conference and 9-0 in the section. “We captured the blue ribbon for the second year in a row in the 2AA Section Tournament to advance to the MN State Class AA
“We can never count them out. They have a great program at LSH and they are always a great opponent. They have some very talented underclassmen that will be big parts of their success this year. TCU could potentially make a good section run, as well as Jordan, and Belle Plaine.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We are very fortunate to have some quality leadership back this year. We did graduate some very exceptional young woman, but I am certain that this skilled, talented, experienced group we have stepping into this season will do everything they can to be competitive in our conference and our section. We will have to beat some very good up and coming teams this season to make it back to the state tournament, but we believe that the hard work in the off season and preseason will take us where we want to be. Our strength would have to be our team consistency. If one player is not on, someone else steps in and has a big game. We don’t just have one big play maker or hitter, everyone steps in at the right time to get the job done. The experience of playing in the big games on the big stage at least once and some of these girls twice, will be great motivators and confidence builders for our team as a whole. Our key to success will be to continue to work hard on our everyday skills and to strive to be better everyday.” Heidi Niemeyerhead coach
State Tournament where we were the runner up team going 2-1 in the tournament only losing to Maple Lake,” Niemeyer said. “The State Tournament was an unbelievable experience that showcased two well played games in the first two rounds with the semifinal game going into extra innings and the win coming within 13 minutes of the start of commencement for our five seniors. It was truly an unforgettable weekend as we set a St. Peter softball record as the runner-up at the State Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck at Tournament.” 931-8566 or follow him on Twitter. 2. “I believe that Le Sueur will be the team to beat,” Niemeyer said. com @SPHSportsPat.
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Wednesday, April 10, 2019
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Fivesome returns to St. Peter girls golf By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
St. Peter Girls Golf Coaches: Head: Pat Klubben (11th season) Jr. High/Assistant Coach: Nancy Hanson, Sean Keating Key Players: Returning Letter winners: Senior Amelia Wernsing, a section qualifier and four-time varsity letter winner, showed great consistency last year and will be looked upon to fill the No. 1 position to start the year, Klubben said. “She brings back a career best 18-hole score of 91 while carrying a 48.6 nine hole average.” Junior Heidi Mayo, a section qualifier and two-time varsity letter winner, will be expected to compete for the No. 2 position to start the year, Klubben said. “She shot her 18-hole best of 99 at section last year and improved her 9-hole average by five strokes dropping it to 52.” Junior Rae Smit, a two-time time varsity letter winner looks to be fighting for the No. 3 position this year, Klubben said. “She finished last year with a 9-hole average of 55.4 and hopes to bounce back with higher expectations this season. The effort is definitely there, she just needs to regain the confidence.” Sophomore Mia Hansen, a section qualifier and two-time varsity letter winner, shot a season low score of 97 last year at section and looks to compete for the No. 2 or No. 3 position this year, Klubben said. “Mia finished last year with a 9-hole average of 53.6.” Sophomore Emily Salfer, a section qualifier and two-time varsity letter winner, will also look to fight for that No. 2 or No. 3 position, Klubben said. “Coming off a season best score of 100
at section last year, Emily will be looked upon to solidify the middle of the lineup. She brings back a 9-hole average of 53.9.” Keep your Eye On: Sophomores Maddie Doose and Anna LoFaro as well as freshman, Kate Salzwedel are back from playing a lot of JV last year and will be looking to fill the varsity vacancy left by graduation, Kluben said. “Eighth graders Adrianna Bixby and Audra Bixby will also be eyeing the chance to hit the links with the varsity squad.” Moved on: Lost to Graduation: Miranda Bresnahan and Kennady Legg 2019 Season Outlook: After completing a weather shortened dual season with a 2-2 record, the Saints will be looking to improve on that .500 record this year. “Once again our season goals are to score in the 190s in 9-hole meets and 390s or lower in 18hole meets, Klubben said. “That means we need our top four golfers at or below 100 in 18-hole meets. I feel very optimistic as in the past years we have tailed off a little at the end of the year, but last year was different as several girls shot their best rounds in the section tournament. “We have great numbers again this year, which means we will be able to compete with full teams at all levels. There will be competition from day one for varsity and JV positions which will only make us better. It will be a luxury again this year to be able to fill vacant spots in the lineup with experienced players rather than pulling up Jr. High players that are maybe not ready yet. The toughest part of my job will be to create an environment of healthy competition with all of the players.” Conference dual record: 0-2 “We lost two close confer-
ence dual matches by a total of seven strokes last year,”Klubben said. “The East Division looks to be very tight again this year with Fairmont coming back as the team to beat in the East and once again Marshall looks to be the team to beat overall. The BSC will look a little different again this year on the girls side as St. James will not have a girls program. and JCC will move over to the East side to help balance each division.” Section: “Last year we finished in 4th place after the first day of section and qualified as a team for the section finals and went on to finished in 4th place overall,” Klubben said. “Once again we would Heidi Mayo of St. Peter chips a shot to the 18th hole last year at New Prague Golf Club. (St. Peter like to play well enough in the Herald file photo) first round of section to move on as a team to the section finals. We would certainly be a long shot to win our section tournament, but I certainly feel that we can improve on our 4th place finish from last year. Jordan advanced to state last year and will again be the favorite coming out of our section.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “With five varsity letter winners returning from last year, we hope to be competitive in tournaments, conference play, and section play and as always hope to be playing our best at the end of the season to compete for a spot in the state tournament. ”— Pat Klubben, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 5 — Returning varsity letter winners David Tycast, DDS 20 — “We have never had 20 Dr, Uyen Pham or more players since I have been coaching,” Klubben said. “We currently have 22 girls signed up this year.”
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VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
With entire team back, St. Peter boys golf shoots for state By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
St. Peter Boys Golf COACHES Head coach: Neil Doose, 11th Year Assistant coaches: TBD KEY PLAYERS Carter Doose — (12th) Averaged 37.67 per 9 holes 2018, 5 year letter winner, Big South All Conference last 3 years, Big South Conference Medalist last year. Doose has been to the State Tournament 2 years in a row finishing in the top half in 2017 and climbed to 10th overall in 2018. He led the team last year in scoring average, birdies, pars, fairways hit, and Greens in Regulation. He will need to improve on all of those areas if he wants to reach his goals this year. Doose played all summer in the Players Tour, Tim Herron’s College Prep Tour and Hurricane Junior Golf Tour which has helped him improve. He has also signed a scholarship offer to play golf next year at St. Cloud State University. Kendall Nicolai (10th) Averaged 41.07 in 2018. 4 year letter winner, Big South All Conference last year finishing in 14th place, up from 25th place the year before. He also was the team’s best putter last year. He participated in his first State Tournament last year finishing in 65th place overall. “He hopes to improve to the top half or better this year,” Doose said. “Kendall really improved his decision making in 2018 which helped drop his scores. He is such a long ball hitter that he really needs to improve on his wedge game to score better for the team. Kendall had a great summer and won a lot of junior golf tournaments which will help our team a lot.”
Cade Horner (11th) Averaged 41.17 last year. Horner missed the state cut by 1 stroke at section and hopes to take the next step this season. He finished in 27th place in the Big South Conference up from 55th the year before. He dropped his scoring average 5 strokes last year and he too has played a lot of summer golf. Marshall Nicolai (9th) Averaged 44.14 last year. He dropped his scoring average 3 strokes from a year ago and hopes to make the same progress this year. He is a 2-year letter winner. “Marshall is not afraid to spend quality time practicing and that will only make him a better golfer,” Doose said. Kaidan Schmitz (11th) Averaged 44.62 in 2018. He finished in 37th place in the Big South Conference last year up from 85th the year before. “Kaidan continues to improve his overall game and is a 2 year letter winner. We are looking to get Kaidan into the top 4 scores more often this year as he definitely has the ability to shoot low for us.” Seth Lokensgard (12th) Averaged 46.62 in 2018 which was 4 strokes higher than 2017. “If he can drop another 3 to 4 strokes this year, Seth could be a difference maker for the Saints,” Doose said. “He is a 2-year letter winner and finished in 60th place in the Big South which was up from 85th the previous year. We need Seth’s senior leadership and the ability to stay focused to help our team mature and improve as the season goes on.” KEEP YOUR EYE ON Alex Wenner (11th) 49.69 average last year. Played in 6 varsity meets last year and earned his first letter. “Alex improved a lot next year, and hopefully some more
Good Luck Teams!
St. Peter’s Carter Doose, who earned a return trip to state golf, chips to the 18th green last year at New Prague Golf Club. (St. Peter Herald file photo)
this past summer,” Doose said. “It would be great to have him continue to compete for varsity spots.” Michael Moline (11th) 53.29 Average in 2018 which was also his first year. “Michael’s game improved greatly as the season went on, and we continue to look for improvement from him,” Doose said. Will Borgmeier (8th) 48.71 average in JH meets last year. “It
rd a w e RTODAY? YOU
HOW CAN WE
would be great to see him take the leap to JV this year and score well for us,” Doose said. Logan Moe (10th) 48.75 average last year. “Logan finished in 56th place in the Big South Tournament last year and we are truly hoping and can take a huge step forward for the team this year,” Doose said. “He is a 1-year letter winner after playing in 7 varsity meets last year. Looking for big
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the Section 2AA meet (lost by 6 strokes to BEA) Section favorites: BEA, Jordan, Albert Lea, Shattuck “We believe we have a good returning crew that can compete in the subsection, section and conference meets this season,” Doose said. “The team has set a goal of competing in the state tournament as a team this year, and to do that we really have to put in a lot of work all the way down our lineup.” COACH’S COMMENTS “I am very excited for the 2019 golf season to begin. It appears that we will have a much earlier start to our meets this spring which will help a lot. A lot of this years team lives on the course in the summer and I know we are capable of big things. I am also hoping that some of our younger players can make a big leap for us this year as well. We do have a lot of returning talent, but talent only takes you so far. We need to improve on our decision making and shot selection skills on the course and really improve on our short games. Short games are everything. I am excited to see how this group progresses on and off the course this season. The biggest thing for the whole team is to improve our mindsets. We have talked a lot about this the first 2 days of indoor practices and if the kids can buy into those lessons and improve their mindsets, the year could be great for us.” — Neil Doose, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 21 — golfers out this year 7-12. 8 — golfers with varsity experience 8 — new golfers 4 — eagles last year 2 — golfers qualifying for 2018 AA State Tournament 0 — holes in 1 last year
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things and good rounds from Logan this spring.” Ryan Braun (10th) 49.5 average in 2018 on the JV. “I am hoping Ryan can help the varsity at times this year as well,” Doose saidl. “He is bigger and stronger which could really help his game.” Charlie Remmert (11th) “Charlie played JV last year and averaged 58.25,” Doose said. “We are hoping he can drop 5 to 6 strokes this spring.” Nolan Larson (10th) Nolan played 5 JV meets last year and averaged 67. Newcomers: Bennett DeBlieck (11th) “Bennett returns after a year or 2 off and we are hoping he can help our JV team this season,” Doose said. Luke Simonette (10th) Ty Roessler (10th) Jaxen Sandland (8th) Blake Magelee (7th) Anthony Nicolai (7th) Zachary Salzwedel (7th) Cooper DeBlieck (7th) “We are hoping some of these newcomers this year can step up and compete for some JV spots this spring,” Doose said. MOVED ON None 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK In 2018 St. Peter finished in 5th place overall in the Big South Conference and 2nd in the East Division. “We hope to improve on those finishes this season, but we know we will have a lot of hard work to do to accomplish that,” Doose said. “The Big South conference is really tough again this year and many good individuals and teams.” St. Peter’s conference record was 22-11. The Saints overall record was 50-15 The Saints took 2nd place in
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Wednesday, April 10, 2019
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PAGE 5
St. Peter clay target shooting team aims for another big season By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
Senior Brad Boyer gives it his best shot for the St. Peter clay target shooting team. (Photos courtesy of Doug Boyer)
St. Peter freshman Mackenzie Pettis takes aim at a clay target.
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St. Peter Clay Target Shooting COACHES Head coaches: Doug Boyer 5th year; Jesse Lager, 5th year KEY PLAYERS Seniors: Brad Boyer, Dylan Graft, Nathan Pauly, Mitch Pettis, Cole Deegan, Connor Volk, Alex Sieberg, John Bennett, Jasmine Witty Juniors: Bennett DeBlieck, James Gran, Jaden Neubauer, Landon Gran, Blake Rehnelt, Kendrick Wilking, Michael Moline, Alex Wenner, Matthew Johnson Sophomores: Noah Klaseus, Kia Maas, Nathan Pettis, Julia Powers, Jack Leonard, Jack Sourbeck, Freshmen: Jaxson Witty, Mackenzie Pettis KEEP YOUR EYE ON Zach Hermanson, Luke Jones, Carter Wendroth, Brooke Rehnelt, Jaeger Kennedy, Levi Powers MOVED ON Jesse Tate, Blake Makela, Trevor Powers, Ethan Klaseus, Jacob Pehrson, Mari DeBlieck, Cole Pankratz, Cole Salisbury, Riley Mayo, Will Haggenmiller and Ben Eide 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK “Last year we had a great run at the end of the season,” Boyer said. “We placed well at the Clay Target State Tournament, qualified for the MSHSL Tournament for the first time and then placed 5th in the nation at the Clay Target Nationals. Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck at “Whatever class we end up in is usually very competitive. New 931-8566 or follow him on TwitPrague, Alexandria, Marshall and ter.com @SPHSportsPat. similar sized teams are always
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tough.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “I expect our team to compete well by the end of the year. That is Jesse’s and my philosophy. Because of the nature of the sports scoring we don’t really worry about winning the conference or things like that due to the everyone shoots approach we promote. Our goal is to have our top squads compete at state and beyond by the end of the year. We have three athletes who competed at nationals returning, Bennett DeBlieck, Noah Klaseus and James Gran as well as other athletes who represented us at the MSHSL championship in Landon Gran, Brad Boyer and Kendrick Wilking. Kia Maas placed at state last year, Mitch Pettis, Cole Deegan and Connor Volk are all seniors who have consistently competed at state and so have juniors Jaden Neubauer and Julia Powers. Mackenzie Pettis, Luke Jones, Nathan Pettis and Matthew Johnson were outstanding at the end of last year, and Jaxson Witty is one of the most consistent young shooters we’ve had since we started.“ – Doug Boyer, co-head coach BY THE NUMBERS 5th — Place team in the nation in 2018 60 — Team members this year, 25 returning letter winners, 10 three-year letter winners returning
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VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
Andy Regner returns as St. Peter’s ace. (St. Peter Herald file photos)
Strong senior class with juniors sprinkled in makes St. Peter baseball deep By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
St. Peter Baseball COACHES Head coach: Kurt Moelter, 18 years coaching Assistant coaches: Ryan Myhra (7 years), Justin Helget (7 years), Jake Malz (7 years) KEY PLAYERS Andy Regner (Sr., P/IF) – All conference Tyson Sowder (Sr., C/IF/OF) – All conference Dylan Graft (Sr., P/OF) Nick Morgan (Sr., OF) Joey Baron (Sr., IF) Hunter Wilmes (Sr., OF) – All conference Brock Hanson (Sr., IF/P)
Isaac Peterson (Sr., P/IF) KEEP YOUR EYE ON Michael Connor (Jr., OF) Hunter Goebel (Jr., P/OF) Carson Kennedy (Jr., P/IF) Cole McCarthy (Jr., P/IF) Logan Reese (Jr., C/IF) Ethan Volk (Jr., P/OF) Ryan Wilmes (Jr., OF) Wyatt Olson (Jr., P/IF) Kaden Oeltjenbruns (Jr., IF/ OF) MOVED ON Owen Little Jeremy Zuhlsdorf Ryan Connolly Brock Bushaw 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK 2018 record: 15-9 overall , 4th place in the section, 5-5 in the Big South.
St. Peter second baseman Joey Baron leaps over Sibley East runner Connor Deis as he forces him out at second last season.
“Our section once again will be loaded,” Moelter said. “Belle Plaine is always tough and are perennially, the team to beat. Jordan won the section last year and will tough as well. WEM probably has the best pitcher in the section, which makes them a dangerous team as well. “As for the Saints, our goals are always the same each year. We want to improve each day as the year goes on. Obviously, we would like to make a run at State and feel that we have the kids to do it. But, we can’t get caught up in that. We need to focus on the
‘now’ and simply improve each day. If we do that, things will take care of itself.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “It’s always an exciting time of year when baseball starts and this year is no different. We have a strong nucleus returning seniors and a great group of juniors as well. Overall, I feel that this group is very coachable. As a coach, that is what I always want. These kids are excited to show up and are willing to take instruction, criticism and run with it. We have had a very interesting start to the year.
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With the success of our basketball team (going to state), quite a few of our kids have missed the first week or so. But, with them being willing to jump right in, I know they will not miss a beat. We (coaches) are always trying to build a culture and environment of working hard and having success. Well, many of our ball players have enjoyed success. Hockey and basketball both went to State and other kids enjoyed personal/ team success in other sports as well. It has been a great year for SPHS athletics, and we are hoping to continue the trend this spring.”
– Kurt Moelter, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 9 – Seniors coming back that have all had some sort of varsity experience. “This will be very beneficial early in the year,” Moelter said. 4/4: “This is the date of our first game. Right now, it is shaping up that we might be playing that day! Nothing could be worse than last spring!! (Knock on wood)” Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck at 931-8566 or follow him on Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat.
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Wednesday, April 10, 2019
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 7
Inexperienced St. Peter boys tennis team faces tough competition By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
St. Peter Boys Tennis COACHES Head coach: Aaron Rothenberger (13 seasons, 7 as a head coach) Assistant coaches: Bob Messerli (3 seasons) KEY PLAYERS Seniors Bailey More, Matt Pettis, Ken Ringler and Mikinley Prafke and junior Liam Dixon are the returning letter winners from last year’s squad. KEEP YOUR EYE ON Senior Zephaniah Kyoore, juniors Kai Anderson, Harrison Dean, Wareke Gillette, Daniel Nadeau, Xavier Schugel, sophomore Kelson Lund and 8th-grader Marty Anderson MOVED ON Last year’s seniors listed were a part of the 2018 tournament squad that won the Section 2A title and Consolation Championship at the state tournament: Leif and Matthias Annexstad, Hunter Braun, Drew Elofson, Will Haggenmiller, Justyn Hermel, Bennet Madden, Will Miller, Casey Osborne and Rafat Solaiman. Elofson and Solaiman are tied for most wins in St. Peter history with 121 career wins.
2019 SEASON OUTLOOK Last season the Saints went 19-2 (only losses were to Class A State Champions Rochester Lourdes.) The Saints won BSC East Division, BSC Championship, Section 2A Championship, and Class A State Consolation Championship. Individually Drew Elofson won 3rd in Class A State Singles and Rafat Solaiman was 4th. This season the Saints will be without 10 out of 15 members of last season’s tournament squad missing many that were at the top of the lineup. The team is made up of four returning starters with extensive doubles experience and a bunch of athletes that only have a year or two of tennis experience. The teams in Section 2A that will provide a challenge on the road to the section championship will be Mound Westonka and Breck. The Saints will rely on a new generation of players to compete against some of the most difficult competition in Class A tennis. They will be playing against almost all top 10 teams this season and already defeated No. 10 St. James in a doubles tournament last Saturday. COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “Coach Messerli and I are very excited to work with all of the returning players and new players
St. Peter’s Matthew Pettis stretches for a volley in winning the No. 2 doubles match with Ken Ringler at the state team tennis tournament last year. (St. Peter Herald file photos)
that have joined the squad this season. We will have a very inexperience team in both singles and doubles, yet we are very encouraged with the adaptability and competitiveness of our players. Our four veteran returning starters will face some difficult challenges with leading this team, but there are emerging players that can contribute success in our varsity matches this season.“ – Aaron Rothenberger, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 5 – returning letter winners from last season’s squad 4 — returning starters this season 3 — BSC All-Conference returners 2 — average number of seasons of experience in playing the game of tennis that are now playing varsity. 1 — unified team that prides itself upon showing excellent sportsmanship, the right attitude and the upmost effort!
Bailey More of St. Peter reaches a volley at No. 1 doubles last season.
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VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
St. Peter’s Jade Reicks (right) clears a hurdle in winning the Section 2A, 300-meter hurdles last season.
St. Peter’s Caitlin Salfer (second from right) qualifies for the section in the 400-meter run by placing fourth last season in the subsection at Tri-City United. (St. Peter Herald file photos)
St. Peter girls track team hopes to finish strong again By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
St. Peter Girls Track and Field COACHES Head coach: Jeff Portugue, 20 as head coach, 11 as assistant Assistant coaches: Kris Sandborg, George Schoenborn, Bill Stuewe, Dan Guelle KEY PLAYERS “I think we will have some depth in the jumps and distance events,” Portugue said. “I believe we will be fairly strong in the hurdles, as well, with several returning from late season injuries last year.” KEEP YOUR EYE ON “I think some key people to look for is our shot and discus athletes,” Portugue said. “We lost the top five (Jordan Keeley, Tia Schott, Bailey Nesje and Payton Portugue) in those events. It will be important for a few girls to step
into those positions. It will also be important to find our next great sprinter with the loss of Bethany Bresnahan. We have some young girls who just need to get stronger and will need to fill her role.” MOVED ON Bethany Bresnahan, Payton Portugue, Alison Helder, Jordan Keeley, Baily Nesje, Tia Schott, Emily Fugon. 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK “I just hope that the returning girls improve on last season’s performances,” Portugue said. “We graduated some very accomplished student athletes. It is going to take some time to fill the events left vacant by those graduated athletes from last season. It is always important for us to have a few freshman come in and fill those rolls vacated by those graduates. I know Coach Stuewe has been doing an outstanding job developing
kids in the Junior High program that often come in as freshman and are ready to contribute. My main goal each season is just to have the young ladies work hard, stay healthy and be running, jumping and throwing our best in late May and June. If we can do that, I call it a successful season.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We were section runner-ups last season, which was an outstanding accomplishment. The girls really began to run well at the end of the season. I am hoping we can have similar results this season. We want to be at our best at the end of the season and have our best performances late in the year. It is always our team philosophy to move athletes around and find what events the girls perform best in by the end of the season. We will have athletes competing
in a variety of events though out the season. — Jeff Portugue, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 3 — School records broken last season, Jordan Keeley-discus; Maddie More-1,600 and 800 29 — Returning letter winners; seniors Signe Alger, Emily Gessner, Caitlin Salfer, Claire Nuessmeier, Yana Burgess and Xenna Willaert; juniors Reese Portugue, Lauren Feder, AJ Brock, Alli Madden, Amelia Carlson, Nicole Schilling and Izzy Lind; sophomores Katie Peterson, Ella Gilbertson, Liz Mitchell and Maddie More; freshmen Katie Gurrola, Lexi Johnson, Jaiden Landsom, Lauren Odland, Morgan Petersen, Brooke Rehnelt, Maija Tollefson and Josie Wiebusch; eighth-graders Hadley Stuehrenberg, Grace Dlouhy, Natalie Petersen and Hailey Looft.
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Good Luck Teams!
St. Peter boys track returns experience, adds depth By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
St. Peter Boys Track and Field COACHES Head coach: Keith Hanson, 28 years, 17 years head coach Assistant coaches: Erick Boe, Marc Bachman, Dan Guelle, George Schoenborn and Kris Sandborg KEY PLAYERS Jade Reicks — senior returning state participant, 200-meter high hurdles, 100-meter dash, 400-meter relay Ben Bode — senior returning state participant,wheelchair shot and discus Mo Abdi — senior returning state participant, 400-meter relay Mohamed Yaya — senior section participant, 1,600-meter run KEEP YOUR EYE ON Kole Guth — freshman section participant, pole vault MOVED ON Abdikadir Mohamed — state participant, 400-meter relay 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK
“We return a number of state participants from our 4x400 relay along with Jade and Ben in two events,” Hanson said. “We have a large number of kids out this year which will give us more depth in some events. We are hoping to find a few more athletes to help with our field events, We are pretty strong on the track but need to get more scoring from this area.” COACH COMMENTS “The athletes are real positive so far due to the weather and outlook on getting outside to work out, as they have been working very hard inside with what we have available.” — Keith Hanson, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 4 — returning state participants 7 — Seniors out for the team 14 — returning letter winners: seniors Mo Abdi, Jade Reicks, Ben Bode, Mohamed Yaya; juniors Matt Springer, Haroun Warsame; sophomores John Borgmeier, Nathan Fogal, Aden Kurdziolek, Ryan Sandland, Carter Wendroth; freshmen Alex Bosacker and Kole Guth; eighth-grader Brooks Reicks
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Wednesday, April 10, 2019
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 9
Cleveland trap team reloads for another good year By RICHARD ROHLFING
Correspondent
Cleveland Trap Shooting COACHES Head coach: Jack Zimmerman, fifth year Assistant coaches: Dave Voss, Ross Baker, Brandon Ellickson, Tim Ellickson, Cody Blaschko KEY SHOOTERS Jackson Gibbs, sophomore – With an average of 22.5 downed targets thorough the 10 competition rounds last year, Gibbs tied Brandon Ellickson for the Clippers’ most accurate shooter. Gibbs was second in the conference behind Ellickson, who had a better reserve week. Gillian Baumgartner, junior – The Clipper girls top shooter, Baumgartner took second place in the conference among the female shooters. She had a 20 average, 0.7 points below the winner. KEEP YOUR EYE ON Brendon Brown – Senior. His best outing last year was 47 downed targets, the second most in competition week three. Ian Krenik – Senior. He led competition week three last year with a 47. Cody Germscheid – Senior. His best outing last year was a 45, which tied him for second place in competition week two. Brett Klassen – Junior. He led reserve week last season with a 46 and was second in week five with a 46. Caleb Hankins – Junior. He hit 48 targets last year to lead competition week three. Mason Conroy – Junior. He hit 42 targets in week two last season. Francesca Fonseca – Junior. She was the team’s most improved female shooter last season. MOVED ON Brandon Ellickson, Parker Bonogofsky, Matthew Brenke, Ben Miller, Kyle Pope, Evan Koppelman, Gabbi Wenker and Nick VanSickle 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK Last year the Clippers finished in the top spot in their conference, which included seven other teams scattered around the state. Now, in its fifth year, the Clip-
Junior Francesca Fonseca and eighth-grader Martin Gibbs are a couple of the 31 shooters on the Cleveland trap team this year. (Richard Rohlfing/Le Sueur County News)
per trap team lost group of experienced shooters from last year, especially Ellickson, who was with the program since its beginning, but it returns a solid set of athletes. Some have already proven themselves while others are waiting for the chance. COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We are looking forward to another great year. We have many young shooters this year with only three seniors, but I’m confident we will have a respectable season. The kids from Cleveland are always willing to put in the hard work,
and they always show up with a good attitude. Our main goals every year are to, No. 1, be safe but also to have a good time. If you are doing those two things, the scores will follow. It’s always
3 – The number of seniors on good to get out on the trap range after being cooped up all winter, the team: Brendon Brown, Ian so we are hoping for good weather Krenik, Cody Germscheid and some success.” – Jack Zim31 – The number of shooters merman, head coach participating this year BY THE NUMBERS 225 – The number of clay tar-
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PAGE 10
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
Cleveland softball has all the bases covered for this season By RICHARD ROHLFING
Correspondent
Cleveland Softball COACHES Head coach: Dan Fredrickson – 6th year Assistant coach: Sandy Hollerich – 3rd year KEY PLAYERS Katelyn McCabe – Senior, outfield. “Katelyn brings lots of experience,” said Fredrickson. “She is a player who can really be counted on game day. She has some pop in her bat. She hit two home runs last year. Katelyn does a very nice job in left field and has really stabilized that position. We will be counting on her to have an even bigger impact at the plate this year. She is a team leader.” McKenna Robb – Junior, 3rd base and pitcher. She was a member of the All-Valley Conference first team and the All-Section team last season. Last season she had the Clippers’ most doubles (8), most RBIs (24), most total bases (43) and highest batting average (.695). Pitching, Robb had the most wins (8) and the most strikeouts (84). “In my opinion, she is the best hitter and the best pitcher in our conference,” Fredrickson said. “She is an absolute game changer at both. Her work ethic is incredible, and she’ll have another monster year for the Clippers. She is one of the Elite players in Class A.” Joie Weller – Senior, pitcher and outfield. She was an AllConference Honorable Mention last season, when she had a .644 batting average. “Joie was amazing last season at the plate,” Fredrickson said. “She has developed into a very feared hitter in our conference. Joie is also a very accomplished pitcher, and we need her to continue to step up there as well. Joie has already had an outstanding career as a Clipper. This season looks to be her biggest.” Karna Ziebarth – Senior, 1st base. She was an All-Conference Honorable Mention last season. “Karna is absolutely fearless at one of the game’s most crucial positions,” Fredrickson said. “She is an elite level defensive player that can really pick it. At the plate she has displayed menacing poten-
Clippers softball seniors are Sydney Klingel, Allison Schmoll, Katelynn Erickson, Julia McCabe, Joie Weller, Katelyn McCabe, Karna Ziebarth and Emma Hahn. (Photo courtesy of Carynn Klingel)
tial the last two years. With some consistency there, she’s an easy 1st team All-Conference type of player. Karna will hit in the heart of our order.” Julia McCabe – Senior, outfield/infield. In 2018 for the Clippers, she had most runs (26), the most triples (2) and the most stolen bases (9). She earned one of a pair of Hustle awards and was also a member of the All-Valley first team. “Julia is an absolute gamer,” Fredrickson said. “She brings that ‘It factor.’ She hits at the top of our lineup an she was awesome last year setting the table. Julia is constantly on base and plays with a passion and a fire coaches and teammates love and opponents hate. She is a boss in the outfield with lightning in her right arm. Julia has stepped up and proved she’s one of the area’s best. We just need a repeat performance.” Lexi Hollerich – Junior, catcher. She was a member of the AllConference second team. “Lexi is legit,” Fredrickson said. “She’s the best catcher in the conference. She is lights out behind the plate. She will also step up and call pitches this year as well. She has an in-
credible work ethic and natural leadership skills. Lexi has a chance to develop into a very polished hitter. She already has had some big hits in her young career. She’s an all-around dynamic player.” Allison Schmoll – Senior, infield. “Allison is a heady player,” Fredrickson said. “She really understands the game, and she’s a returning starter at the keystone position. She has a nice glove. Allison’s bat has gotten better every year and this looks like a breakout season for her.” Sydney Klingel – Senior, outfield. “Syd is a spark plug,” Fredrickson said. “She has good range in the outfield. And she is good at
making contact and creating some havoc on the bases.” KEEP YOUR EYE ON Nicole McCabe – Sophomore, infield/outfield. “Nicole is crushing the ball in the cages,” Fredrickson said. “She is an impact bat no question about it. When experience catches up to her ability, lookout because she has something special. She’s a very talented overall player. And her bat will be a devastating offensive weapon for the Clippers for many years.” Emma Hahn – Senior, pitcher/ infield. “Emma has looked sharp this spring with her pitching,” Fredrickson said. “She has a rocket arm and can be a real difference
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maker in the circle. She has made some good contact in the cage as well. Emma has a chance to really contribute pitching for us this year, especially with three tournaments and a slate of games strung together.” Halle McCabe – Sophomore, shortstop. “Halle is a smooth athlete,” Fredrickson said. “She has the ability to make things seem easy. Halle will start at shortstop for us. She’s also an excellent outfielder as well. Halle will have a big impact on our program for years to come.” Brianna Connor – Sophomore, 3rd base. “Brianna returns as our starter at third base,” Fredrickson said. “She really took to her role there last year in her freshman season. She has a very strong arm and a very good glove. She has the ability to develop into an impact type bat as well.” Katelynn Erickson – Senior, outfield. “Katelynn will play a reserve role for us this season,” Fredrickson said. “She is a player with an amazing attitude and she’s really improved her contact at the plate each year.” Mollee Grams – Junior, infield/ outfield. “Mollee has a very good bat,” Fredrickson said. “She really has a good approach and is comfortable at the plate. Mollee will start in a reserve role but will definitely see at-bats in a pinch-hit role this season. She has a bright future for us.” Macey Ziebarth – Sophomore, outfield. “Macey is another spark plug type player,” Fredrickson said. “She is a rangy outfielder, and she is dangerous on the bases. She is quickly developing in an allaround player. The future is very bright for this toolsy player.” MOVED ON
Lily Hollerich (SS) 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK The Clippers finished the 2018 season as Valley Conference champions with 8-0 record. They had a respectable fourth place in the section tournament, where they beat Nicollet and JWP . This year, the Clippers are favored to repeat as Valley champs. Martin County West, LCWM, and Nicollet should also head the top of the conference. Teams to beat in the section are New Ulm Cathedral and SESM, but this Clipper team is deep and experienced and ready to come out swinging. While Cleveland lost a key player in Hollerich at shortstop, Halle McCabe has shown in volleyball and basketball that she is one of the Clippers’ best athletes. COACH’S COMMENTS “This season we have an absolute gauntlet of a schedule, playing two returning state tournament teams in our first week, not to mention a loaded top half of our conference and tournaments at TCU and Mayer Lutheran. But this Clipper team is ready to take that next step. We have a talented roster, pitchers that throw tons of strikes, and we are an excellent defensive team. Last year we were one of the best offensive teams in the Section averaging close to eight runs a game. This spring should be a very memorable one for the Clippers. We have that goal of a June date at Caswell.” – Dan Fredrickson, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 8 – Seniors and returning regular starters, a luxury for the Clippers 5 – Returning Clippers who have homered 1 – Valley Conference Championships
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VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 11
Cleveland baseball team faces a year of redemption By RICHARD ROHLFING
Correspondent
Cleveland Baseball COACHES Head coach: Bill John – 1st year; 4 years as assistant varsity coach at Burnsville High School Assistant coaches: Alec Rogers, JV head coach and assistant coach – 1st year; Mike Krenik, assistant coach JV and varsity – 2nd year “Alec was a Cleveland player and graduated in 2016. It’s exciting to work with a young coach in his first season,” John said. “He’s got a passion for the game and enthusiasm to make things happen. Mike will put an emphasis on developing our pitchers. He is also a Cleveland graduate (a little further back than Alec), and is also the head coach of the local town team. He has many years of experience. We also have Carter Kopet, a 2018 graduate, who will be helping out when his studies at Gustavus Adolphus allow. Our goals beyond the season would include the summer program, trying to build it up. I told the parents at our meeting that I was looking to build a program not just a season.” KEY PLAYERS Bryce Novak – Senior, 3B/SS/P, 5-year letter winner, Captain. He was an All-Section player, an AllConference first team member and the team’s MVP last season. Against Valley teams, Novak batted .450 with nine hits and three RBIs. He stole six bases. As a pitcher, he had a 3-1 record with a 1.32 ERA and 31 strikeouts. Overall he led the Clippers in hits (23), runs (19), OBP (.508), battering average (.442) and stolen bases (16). He hit two triples and a double and never struck out. On the mound he whiffed 48 in a 5-2 record and had a 1.59 ERA. In playoffs, he collected six hits in the five games for a .333 batting average and was 2-1 on the mound with 17 strikeouts. “We feel that Bryce will provide excellent leadership on the field and in the dugout,” John said. “He is one of those guys that speaks quietly and carries a big bat. He is also one of the most fundamentally sound looking players I’ve seen in the field.” Danny McCabe – Senior OF, 3-year letter winner, Captain. He
Seniors on the Cleveland baseball team include (from left) Austin Gibeau, Danny McCabe, Brendon Brown, Bryce Novak and Shane Rogers. (Richard Rohlfing/Le Sueur County News)
was an All-Section player and an All-Conference Honorable Mention in 2018. He had a .522 conference batting average with a dozen hits and eight RBIs. In playoffs, he had eight hits with a .471 batting average. Overall, he batted .440 with 22 hits, including two doubles and two triples, seven stolen bases and a team-leading 15 RBIs. “Another leader on the team, he brings with him the recent State Hockey Tournament experience,” John said. “Having had that experience is such a big piece as far as leadership potential.” Brendon Brown – Senior 1B/ OF, 2-year letter winner, Captain. “Brendon has been the vocal leader of this team since I came on board in January,” John said. “He has a lot of motivation for this season, and he looks for accountability in his teammates. We will need his bat with a little power this year.” Shane Rogers – Senior, OF, 2-year letter winner. “He has good speed,” John said. “He covers a lot of ground in the outfield and on the base paths. He has great potential for a break out senior year.” Lucas Mueller – Junior, C, 3-year letter winner. He was an All-Section player last season and
the Clippers’ MIP. In playoffs, he had eight hits with a .471 batting average. “He is a hard-working kid who loves the game,” John said. “He always has a smile on his face when I talk to him. We are looking for him to step up in a leadership capacity with the younger players.” KEEP YOUR EYE ON Austin Gibeau – Senior, the Clippers’ only lefty upperclassman. “He has been hitting the ball well so far the past week,” John said. “We are looking forward to see how he handles himself on the mound. We will really need that left-handed guy to mix up the rotation.” Alex McCabe – Sophomore. With his good athleticism and versatility, it will be interesting to see where he fits best,” John said.
Michael Sullivan – Junior. “He is another young player who has shown some versatility in the first two weeks of practice,” John said. “We were looking for some depth at catcher, and he jumped right in.” “We’ve got a number of freshman and one 8th grader that have looked good in practice, and are looking to see how they perform,” John said. “The spots are always there for competition, and I tell the guys if they prove themselves I’ll find a way to get them on the varsity field. We also have two transfers, Tyce Shook and Jerron Jobe, who have to sit out this year that have looked really good in practice, and we will be excited to have them available for varsity duty next year.” MOVED ON Austin Plonsky (SS/P), Carter
Kopet (IF/OF/P), Cade Olson (RF), Sam Kaderlik (DH/1B), Kyle Pope (OF), Ben Lunderburg (OF) 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK Last year, in a weather-shortened season, the Clippers were 9-8 overall and 4-4 in the Valley Conference (with losses to Madelia, Martin Luther/GH-EC, Martin County West and St. Clair). They lasted five rounds in the section, beating Mountain Lake/ Comfrey at home, losing to host BOLD but then triumphing over host St. Clair and then New Ulm Cathedral at Franklin Rogers Park. In a battle for third place in the Sections, their season ended at Franklin Rogers with a 4-2 loss to Springfield. This year in the conference, JWP and MCW to be strong con-
tenders with again BOLD, Springfield and NUC the usual suspects in the strong 2A section. COACH COMMENTS “It looks like another year of preparing in the gym. The challenging part will be getting gamelike practices in prior to our season opener. That will make it challenging to find the right combination of players and positions. But we’re really working hard. I have included a weight lifting program that’s new to baseball. I think we will see more of that in the coming years as programs figure out that ‘bigger, stronger, faster’ helps in more than just football. I am also big on fundamentally sound baseball. Over 70 percent of the errors in high school baseball are throwing errors. No surprise, but the team that makes the fewest errors typically wins. “We have a mix of returning players and some holes to fill from last year’s seniors. I’ll be really interested to see how the underclassmen respond. I want to see the team give 100 percent effort on and off the field, and make continual improvement. The coaching staff’s job is to prepare the players to play to the best of their abilities, and win the games they should and steal a couple they shouldn’t. “The guys are disappointed at how the season ended last year and feel like they need to work harder to give themselves the best opportunity to redeem themselves. They showed up this March with a chip on their shoulder. Now we have to turn that into positive energy.” – Bill John, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 5 – Number of seniors on the team (Austin Gibeau, Shane Rogers, Danny McCabe, Brendon Brown, Bryce Novak)
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PAGE 12
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
Mankato Loyola/Cleveland track hopes to go the distance again By RICHARD ROHLFING
Eaden Javens (middle distance), Emily Schumacher (hurdles) 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK Last season, the Crusaders boys won the Valley Conference meet. They were also a surprise winner of the subsection meet in St. James. They managed also to make it to state in true-team competition as well and finished in 12th place. The 4x800 (Rentschler, Omtvedt, Peterson and Javens) emerged out of the sections to go to state. While both teams are lacking numbers this year, the boys, with the Crusader state cross country team runners on the team, will be strong in distance but will need athletes to step into new roles in order to be competitive as a team. Look to LCWM/Nicollet to field strong boys and girls teams in the conference as well as Fairmont, Jordan, and Belle Plaine in the section.
Correspondent
Loyola/Cleveland Track and Field COACHES Head coach: Dale Compton – 22nd year Assistant coaches: TJ Palesotti – 16th year, Kari Koester – 2nd year, Alex Nuy – 1st year, Danielle Pierce – 2nd year KEY ATHLETES Micah Rentschler – Senior, distance. As part of the section third-place 4x800 team, which qualified on time, he participated at state last season. He was also part of the conference leading 4x400 team and participated in the sections as a member of the first-place 4x800 team. He was a member of the state cross country team last fall. Mitchell Johnstone – Junior, distance. Last season he was first in the conference and second in the subsection in the 3,200. In the sections, he was fourth in the 3200 with a 10:21.82. He is coming off an All-State performance last fall in cross-country. Jerrett Peterson – Junior, distance. He earned an All-Conference track award last season as a member of the first place 4x800 team. He was also part of the conference leading 4x400 team and won the 800 in the sub-sections with a 2:06.48 finish and also made it to the sections as a member of the first-place 4x800 team. As part of the section third-place 4x800 team, he participated at state last season. He is coming off an All-State performance last fall in cross-country. Brett Omtvedt – Junior, distance. Running the 3,200, he was second in the conference and third in the subsection last year. He was a member of the state cross-country team last fall. Ellie Nygren – Junior, distance. She was the top runner on the girls cross-country team last fall.
quality athletes from last year’s team, losing 10 contributors from the boys varsity and two from the girls side. Losing those seniors will hurt, but we do have quite a few returning letter winners this year. With only three seniors, we will be looking to the strong junior class to step up and help lead the team.” – Dale Compton, head coach
BY THE NUMBERS 3 – Seniors participating: Micah Rentschler, Alec Schaefer, Chantal Weber 18 – Returning letter winners participating (9 boys and 9 girls) 12 – The number of Cleveland athletes participating (seniors: Weber and Schaefer; juniors: Mitchell Johnstone, Brett Omtvedt, Jerrett Peterson, Cooper Thomez, Sydnee Germscheid and Ellie Nygren; sophomore: Tyler Erickson; eighth grader Logan Porter; and sixth graders TJ WalCOMMENTS FROM THE dron and Savannah Meyer) COACH “We graduated a number of
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Along with teammate Micah Rentschler, Chantal Weber and Alec Schaefer are the seniors on the Loyola/Cleveland track and field team this spring. (Richard Rohlfing/Le Sueur County News)
ity. Weber will have throwing duties as well as do high jump and sprints. Alec Schaefer – Senior, distance. He was a member of the state cross country team last fall. Sydnee Germscheid – Junior. Sprints, throws. With a 14.34 finish, she was 16th in the 100-meter dash at the sections. Starting with throws, she is back competing after suffering a knee injury early in the volleyball season. She hopes KEEP YOUR EYE ON Chantal Weber – Senior, util- to be running later in the season.
Mariah Kreykes – Junior, sprints. She made it to the section meet as part of the girls 4x400 team. She is the girls leading sprinter. Dawson Davito – Junior, shot put, discus. His throw of 44-2 was second best in the conference last season. In the subsection meet, he was third in both the discus and the shot put. In the section meet, he was 15th in the discus with a 100-09 throw and 10th in the shot put with a 42-0 throw.
Tyler Erickson – Sophomore, distance. He was a member of the state cross-country team las fall. MOVED ON Landon Javens (distance), Hunter Westman (sprints, jumps), Brady Omtvedt (distance), Payton Remiger (pole vault, hurdles), Evan Skinner (distance), Ben Cahalan (sprints, high jump), Cahlin Clow (throws), John Torgerson (throws), Luke Montgomery (sprints), Kyla Haas (distance),
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Wednesday, April 10, 2019
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Titans girls hope to take 3rd in the conference
Titans boys will be strong in s m e long distance, s a pole vaulting
s By ASHLEY MURTHA , amurtha@lesueurcountynews. g com p , Tri-City United Boys Track and Field COACHES Head coach: Craig Nordling, - 3rd year as head coach, 7th year , at TCU Assistant coaches: distance s coach – Chad Polson, 6th year; throws coach – James Timmerd man, 1st year; pole vault coach : – Jon Hammerschmidt, 3rd year : TOP RUNNERS Hugo Ruiz – junior, 800-mer ter and 1,600-meter racer. Ruiz d went to the State Class A meet r last year in the 1,600 and took n eighth place overall earning the - all-state title. He was also an allconference honorable mention in the Minnesota River Conference in both events last year. Mike Fischer – senior, 100-meter and 200-meter sprinter. Fischer went to the Section 2A meet in the 100 last year. Hunter Rutt – junior, 4x800meter and 3,200-meter runner. Austin Antony – junior, middle distance runner. TOP FIELD ATHLETES Jackson Nesmoe – senior, pole vault. Nesmoe was an MRC champion last year and took third at the State Class A meet. Conrad McCrady – senior, pole vault. McCrady was an MRC runner-up, earning allconference honorable mention. He also took fourth place at the Section 2A meet last year. Thomas Budin – senior, pole
PAGE 13
By ASHLEY MURTHA
amurtha@lesueurcountynews. com
Hugo Ruiz will be one of the top runners for the Titans this year after running eighth at the 2018 State Class A meet. (Leader file photo)
vault. Budin participated in the Section 2A meet last year, finishing at 11th place. Jose Reyes – junior, discus. KEY NEWCOMERS Jack Erickson – sophomore, hurdles. Jordan Meyer – freshman, hurdles. MOVED ON Tyler Nesmoe and Zach Tuma 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK Last year the Titans sent five individuals to the Section 2A meet with two of them going on to the State Class A meet. All five of those qualifiers are returning this year. The Titans have many individuals on the team who will contribute heavily in both field and running events. The team has an even balance through the different grades which will allow for veterans to lead and younger member to contribute. This year there is added depth in the mid-distance and long distance runners which will allow for the team to field a more complete meet roster. “With eight returning members who registered all-time top
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five marks last year, it will be exciting to see what happens this year,” head coach Craig Nordling said. COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “Our numbers continue to grow. We still have members of the team who have not ran in a varsity track meet; however, the number of upperclassmen we have retained is encouraging. We are returning with three senior pole vaulters who all have the ability to advance to the section meet and who will, again, be exciting to watch this year. In addition, underclassmen that are returning have the potential to make it to the Section 2A meet in Mankato. It will be fun to watch how the team progresses throughout the spring.” – Craig Nordling, head coach THE NUMBERS 14 – returning letter winners 7 – seniors 5 – returning Section 2A qualifiers from 2018 2 – returning state qualifiers Reach Reporter Ashley Murtha at 507-931-8572.
Tri-City United Girls Track and Field COACHES Head coach: Brian Fogal, 10th year Assistant coaches: distance coach – Chad Polson, 6th year; throws coach – James Timmerman, 1st year; pole vault coach – Jon Hammerschmidt, 3rd year Student managers: Sydney Walters and Audry Wasiloski KEY PLAYERS Maggie Trnka: senior; high jump, discus and shot put. “We will rely on Maggie Trnka who had a great junior season in high jump and throws,” Fogal said. Grace Factor: junior; long jump and triple jump. Factor “came on strong last year in the long and triple jump until injuries ended her season early.” She was named all-conference honorable mention in both events last year. Anabelle Davies and Erika Kaderlik: junior and sophomore, middle distance. Davies and Kaderlik “will lead our middle distance runners.” Holly Schendel, Alexis Neubauer, and Lauren Houn: junior, sophomore and freshman, sprinters. Schendel, Neubauer and Houn “are our top sprinters.” MOVED ON Gabby Robinson, Abby Schleis and Maddie Dull. 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK Last year the Titans ended in fourth place in the Minnesota River Conference. This year, the conference and Section 2A favorite is Belle Plaine. “I expect that as the season moves forward we will continue to improve,” Fogal said. “We have
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had a great attitude and effort so far these first couple weeks. The Belle Plaine and Jordan girls are both very good and have great numbers. They are in a class by themselves. TCU can hopefully be the top of the rest of the conference.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “This year we are looking to improve on our fourth-place finish at the conference meet. We want to continue to improve all season and stay healthy. Our girls distance is relatively small. We will need to move athletes up to the further distances and stretch out some of our middle distance
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runners. We return most of our team from last year, but we are still very young with most of our team in ninth and 10th grade, but with a year of experience. I believe we will be able to do very well.” – Brian Fogal, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 5 – returning TCU track record-holders: Jaylee Hanvelt, Sarah Novak and Davies in the 4x800-meter relay two years ago; Hanvelt in the 1,600-meter race; Factor in the 4x400 relay; and Davies, Josie Plut and Novak in the 4x800 relay team last year Reach Reporter Ashley Murtha at 507-931-8572.
PAGE 14
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
TCU boys golf shoots for conference title By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
Devin Vosejpka will be one of the Titans’ starters for the third year in a row this season. Head coach Bruce Davis hopes he will be a big hitter for the team. (Leader file photo)
Titans baseball still has loads of talent By ASHLEY MURTHA
amurtha@lesueurcountynews. com
Tri-City United Baseball COACHES Head coach: Bruce Davis, 33rd year coaching Assistant coaches: assistant varsity coach – Jay Fredrickson, 4th year; junior varsity coach – Matt Miller, 14th year; 9th-grade coach – Mark Gregor, 8th year; 8th-grade coach – Jason Hollom, 1st year, 2nd year at TCU; 7th-grade coaches – Austin Pinke, 1st year, 2nd at TCU, and Bruce Hollom, 1st year KEY PLAYERS Devin Vosejpka – senior, third baseman. Vosejpka has started for the Titans for three years. Matthew Feddema – senior, infielder. Kody Glende – senior, pitcher. Sam Barnack – senior, outfielder. Tyler Sladek – senior, outfielder. Kayden Factor – sophomore, catcher. Nick Johnson – senior, pitcher. KEEP YOUR EYE ON Dawson Pint – junior, infielder. Kiern Fisher – junior, infielder.
Adam Fredrickson – junior, infielder. Eric Rabenberg – junior, outfielder. MOVED ON Brad Davis – 2019 team most valuable player and all-conference and all-section player Jack Skluzacek – 2019 all-conference player Zach Sexe – 2019 all-conference player Marty Kalina – 2019 honorable mention all-conference player Tyler Milford – 2019 all-section player 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK Last spring the Titans were 11-8 on the season and 6-6 in the always-tough Minnesota River Conference. TCU was seeded at No. 3 in the Section 2AA playoffs, but was taken out of the championship brackets by No. 2 Belle Plaine and then ended their season with a loss to No. 5 Waterville-ElysianMorristown in the fourth round of the consolation brackets. Despite losing many of last year’s starters to graduation, head coach Bruce Davis said the 2019 Titans look to be very competitive in both the conference and the sec-
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tion. “The Titans have some very good athletes on the team and it will come down to getting quality starting pitching and a strong defense for the Titans to pick up a lot of wins this spring,” Davis said. “The Titans’ goal is to be playing their best baseball when the section tournament begins.” This year’s favorites for both the MRC and Section 2AA are Le Sueur and Jordan. COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “Kody Glende could be the best pitcher in the MRC. If he throws strikes consistently he could dominate the hitters. Devin Vosejpka and Matthew Feddema both have a lot of varsity at-bats and must lead this team offensively for this squad to be successful. Kayden Factor came up and started on the varsity last year and did a tremendous job. If he continues to work hard and improve he could develop into one of the best catchers in the MRC and in Section 2AA.” – Bruce Davis, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 6 – seniors on the team this year
Tri-City United Boys and Girls Golf Coaches Adam Larson (head), Bryce Brunz (assistant), Tiffany Crabb (junior high) Overall record last season — 2nd place in conference (boys), 3rd place (girls) Goals “Boys are going to try their best to win the conference championship and get a couple of individuals to the state tournament,” Larson said. Girls — growth and improvement Strengths “Numbers, we have a lot of boys out for the team 9-12,” Larson said. “This is easily the biggest number we’ve seen (35. Previous high was 31.). There is going to be plenty of competition, and hopefully this will spur us on to make big gains. We have amazing leadership from our seniors this season, and hopefully the rest will be inspired to come along for the ride.” Weaknesses “The team needs the freshman and sophomore class to make huge strides individually so that in the next couple of years we have a solid core that can continue to push on,” Larson said. “We need to become mentally stronger and know that we are good enough to compete with any of the teams. Our confidence needs to grow, and we need to expect great things to happen to us.” Key Players Jacob Duque (returning all conference) and Josh Lebrun (all conference honorable mention). “These boys have been with the program since seventh grade and
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TCU’s Jacob Duque, who tied for medalist honors with a par 36 in the second 9 and shot a 42 in the first 9, pitches to the 18th green last season at Montgomery National Golf Club.
have done everything they’ve been asked to do over the years,” Larson said. “They’ve improved each year as their stroke average has gone down every year. They work harder and put in more time than any golfer I’ve ever seen. They truly love the sport, and it is going to pay off this year.” 2019 Outlook “Our girls program is very raw, with only three members out. We need to have great attitudes and not care about day to day results, but focus on long term growth. My girls captain is Jorgia Pumper, and she is a great kid who has improved a ton over the last three years. She will need to show good leadership to these girls and teach them the ropes about playing in a golf meet.” — Adam Larson, head coach Conference favorites? “Jordan would have to be considered the favorite, based on the fact that they’ve won it every year
TCU’s Jorgia Pumper chips to 18th green last year at New Prague Golf Club. (St. Peter Herald file photos)
since I’ve been here, but don’t sleep on those TCU Titans sneaking up to steal that title away,” Larson said.
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Wednesday, April 10, 2019
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 15
Titans softball hopes to make good playoff run Titan shooters hope to continue success By ASHLEY MURTHA find kids to fill the roles.” amurtha@lesueurcountynews. co
Tri-City United Softball COACHES Head coach: Phil Murry, 29th year coaching Assistant coaches: Assistant varsity coach: Sarah Blaschko, 3rd year; junior varsity coach: Carolyn Harmeyer, 14th year; 9th-grade coach: Sarah Adams, 13th year; 8th-grade coach: Jillian Gangl, 2nd year; pitching coach: Taylor Farm, 1st year KEY PLAYERS Elly Novak – senior, pitcher. Novak won a spot on the second all-state team last year and was named the Pitcher of the Year in the Minnesota River Conference in 2017. This will be her fifth year lettering for the Titans and all four previous years she has been given all-conference honors as well as two all-section honors. Novak “has proven herself to be one of the best players in our area,” Murry said. “She was the pitcher of the year in our conference as a sophomore and was probably better as a hitter that year. She already has over 120 hits in her career.” Ellie Singleton – junior, shortstop. This is Singleton’s third year as the team’s starting shortstop. “She has gotten better every year,” Murry said. “She’s very consistent and does the little things well.” Ellaina Novak – freshman, first baseman and pitcher. Novak is starting her second year on the varsity team. She plays first base and is the second pitcher. KEEP YOUR EYE ON Sydney Sartori – junior, secp ond baseman. Sartori “has really p progressed as a defensive player,” . Murry said. She “looks ready to break out offensively.”
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Elly Novak is the sole returning all-conference player for the Titans. She is one of the area’s star pitchers and has a decent hitting average to match. (Leader file photo)
Destiny Dunagan – senior. Dunagan is “kind of a wildcard for us,” Murry said. She’s “very athletic and runs well. We’re trying to find the best spot to get her in.” MOVED ON Cami Vargo, Mattie Hellerud, Emily Krautkremer and Jocelyn Flicek. 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK The Titans finished the 2018 season with an 8-15 record and look to a tough season. In the conference, Norwood Young America “came out of nowhere last year with a very young team,” Murry said. Le Sueur-Henderson “is another fast-improving young team and Jordan always seems to
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St. Peter looks like it will be the section favorite again this year with LS-H and Jordan also strong contenders. The Titans would at least like to improve their record from last year. “On paper, we have the people to do that,” Murry said. “We just need to get on the field and produce. I expect a top three finish in our conference. If we do that, I think we could put ourselves in a position for a nice run in the post-season.” COACH COMMENTS “One of our strengths should be on the mound. I would put our pitching staff up against any in our conference. Elly Novak will head that staff again. This will be her fifth year pitching at the varsity level. In that time she has struck out close to 600 batters. We also hit for a decent average as a team. Last year we hit over .270 as a team. Defense is the first area (we need to improve on). We averaged over three errors a game last year. We can’t continue to allow that many extra outs and extra baserunners this year. We really spread those errors around and need to improve as a team. The second area we need to improve is cutting down on our strikeouts. We hit well as a team, but struck out way too many times. You give yourself no chance when you don’t hit the ball in play. Our last area is we need someone to step up offensively to take some of the pressure off of Elly Novak. If we can get the people around her to put the ball in play consistently, she will see more pitches to hit.” – Phil Murry, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 2 – seniors 1 – returning all-state player
By ASHLEY MURTHA
amurtha@lesueurcountynews. com
Tri-City United Clay Target Club COACHES Head Coach: Scott Petersen, first year as head coach, fourth year coaching overall Assistant Coaches: Wendy Hurd, fourth year; Scott Sladek, fourth year; Kristopher Anderson, fourth year; Jim Staupe, fourth year; Jonathon Trnka, fourth year; Jeremiah Cihak, second year; Mike Dietz, first year; Mark Miller, fourth year; Natalie Fashant, first year Team range safety officers: Pat Murphy, fourth year; Keith Rozeboom, second year KEY PLAYERS Ben Sladek: Sladek was an individual qualifier at the state level last year and tied for first last June. Wyley Petersen: Petersen was an individual qualifier at the state level last year. He also placed 105th out of 1,300 at the national level last year. James Krautkremer: Krautkremer was an individual qualifier at the state level last year. Wyatt Hurd: Hurd placed 81st out of 1,300 at the national level last year. Jonathan Hurd: Hurd finished at 279th out of 1,300 at the national level last year. Gabe Robinson: Robinson finished at 317th out of 1,300 at the national level last year. MOVED ON Audrey Petersen, Grant Fogarty, Tyler Potratz and Mitchell Leonard. 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK The Titans competed at the state and national level last year
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Ben Sladek tied for first place at the state individual competition last year with four other shooters. (Leader file photo)
with one squad taking 12th place in the nation. That squad consisted of Wyley Petersen, Andrew Trnka, Krautkremer, Lucas Dietz and Bradley Kodada. A second team – consisting of Wyatt Hurd, Robinson, Jonathan Hurd, Audrey Petersen and Potratz – also went to the national competition and took 90th. Out of those two squads, eight of the shooters will be returning again this year. At the state level, one of the Titans’ squads – consisting of Fogarty, Sladek, Wyatt Hurd, Krautkremer and Wyley Petersen – finished at 11th out of 40 in the state competition. Sladek and Fogarty also placed high in the individual state competition. Sladek ended up tying for the individual championship with four other shooters while Fogarty took ninth place overall. “Our 2019 outlook is to continue to place well at the Class 5A championship competition in Alexandria to qualify for the state tournament,” assistant coach Wendy Hurd said. “We plan to
send several athletes to the national tournament again as well. We also plan to attend more local tournaments this year as the sport is continuing to expand.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “This is our fourth season in the clay target league. Our team has 49 athletes in grades 6-12 this year who compete in squads of five and as individuals. We participate in ‘virtual scoring’ (Titans shoot at their local range and then submit scores online to be compared) with other teams in the state. We awarded 36 varsity letters last season and there are many key players and athletes to keep eyes on this season. We have competed at state the last three years since our team started with both a squad qualifier and individual qualifiers. Last season our squad placed 11th at the state tournament.” – Wendy Hurd, assistant coach BY THE NUMBERS 8 – returning national competition participants
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PAGE 16
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
Giants’ baseball team is deep in talent, experience By DANA MELIUS
editor@lesueurcountynews.com
Le Sueur-Henderson baseball COACHES Head coach: Rick Bruns, 25th year overall, 9th year varsity Assistant coaches: Lon Berberich-4th, Mike May-10th, Jordan Sinell-7th, Mike Sparrow-1st KEY PLAYERS “This year we have a number of returning players with a tremendous amount of experience,” Bruns said. Mitchell Casperson is a junior (2-time letter winner, 2-time all-conference Minnesota River Conference) pitcher and middle infielder. Last season, Mitch hit .407 with an even more impressive .590 on-base percentage. He’s a tough out. On the mound, Mitchell was 1-3 as a starter, but had 28 strikeouts and 6 walks. We expect him to take the next step this year, and need him to do so if we are to make a run this season. “Burke Nesbit is a senior who was also all-conference for the Giants last season, and has been a solid all-around athlete during his career at LS-H. Burke finished the season hitting .379 for the Giants, as well as finishing 2-2 on the mound with a 2.29 era. We are going to need Burke to continue his consistent play in the field, as well as help log some innings on the mound for us again this year. “Jayce Luna is also a senior who has had a lot of experience playing varsity baseball, and another three- sport athlete at LS-H. Jayce, along with Burke and Tyler Pengilly, are our three outfielders heading into this season. Combined, in 19 games last season, the trio committed only two errors in
LS-H junior Burke Nesbit jumps back to first base, narrowly avoiding a tag in a game last season. Nesbit’s versatility will give the Giants depth on offense, strong center field play and additional pitching. (County News file photo)
74 opportunities. Jayce will also see some innings on the mound in a closer role. “Tommy Gupton V is a junior who played in every game last season, and was asked to do a lot for the Giants. He finished with a .333 batting average, but was our bulldog on the mound, leading the squad in innings pitched (35) and wins (5). Tommy, another athletic kid and three-sport athlete, held his own in the MRC. I’m excited about his next step this , as well. Mitch and Tommy will
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be the anchors on the mound for the Giants heading into the 2019 season.” KEEP YOUR EYE ON “Zack Berndt is a sophomore at LS-H who joined the squad midway through the season last year and was able to get a lot of experience at the varsity level,” Bruns said. “He’s a well-rounded athlete, who will play or do whatever you ask of him. In ten games last season, he actually led the team in hitting, batting at a .433 clip. He’s young and will only get
better. “Our senior leadership is rounded out with Tyler Pengilly and Logan Kahlow. We’ll need production out of them this season. Logan has been slowed by a nagging football injury, and we need him to get ‘right.’ Tyler is, plain and simple, steady. Another one of those athletes who is wellrounded and willing to do whatever you ask him to do.” MOVED ON Last season the Giants lost three athletes: Mitchell Borchardt,
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Phillip Champagne and Michael Broeckert. 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK “I feel that the experience and athleticism that we have should have us in the hunt not only for the MRC, but also the section. As far as the MRC goes, Jordan and Belle Plaine will be tough again. Southwest Christian is a new addition, and nobody really knows what to expect from them. In the section, I need to add St. Peter to the mix (along with BP and Jordan). The Saints have had
a tremendous year athletically in all sports, and that trend will continue in baseball. “Last season, we finished 9-10 in the oddest year I have ever been a part of. We finished 6-6 in the conference, which happened to be good enough for 2nd place in the MRC. Our first game last season was April 26 and last regular season game was May 19. We managed to play 15 games in that window. In one week, we played a doubleheader on Tuesday, a doubleheader on Thursday, and decided to play 16 innings in a single game on Saturday versus Waterville-Elysian-Morristown. Oh yeah, we also played a doubleheader the following Monday. With all that adversity, I thought that our team had a great season.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “The strength of the 2019 Giants baseball team will be the depth of pitching. We have 7 guys who can pitch. Not just throw, but legitimately pitch“ – Rick Bruns, head coach “This group had tremendous success with the summer American Legion season winning state, and getting an opportunity to participate in the regional tournament. It’s our hope that we pick up where they left off last summer.” BY THE NUMBERS 14- number of multi-sport athletes in grades 10-12 that are playing baseball. 7- Teams in the MRC with the addition of SW Christian. Jordan will be leaving after 2020 season for the Wright County Conference, so we’ll have to find a replacement for the Hubmen.
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Wednesday, April 10, 2019
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VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 17
Giants hope to continue LS-H softball winning tradition
By DANA MELIUS 0 editor@lesueurcountynews.com
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Le Sueur-Henderson Softball COACHES Co-head coaches: Anne Lewis (3rd year), Eric Lewis (19th year) Assistant coaches: Emily Wentzlaff (6th year), Lauren Weierke (2nd year), Larry Milam (15th year), Casie Graham (1st year) KEY PLAYERS Kelsey Berndt Liz Milam Halle Bemmels Olivia Fritz Zoe Thomson Mia Preuhs Erica Cronk Emily Wilke A LOOK BACK The Giants finished 8-4 in the Minnesota River Conference last season, good for third place. Norwood Young America won the MRC with an 11-1 record, with Jordan second at 10-2. The rest of the conference dropped, with Belle Plaine at 5-7, Mayer Lutheran and TriCity United at 3-9, followed by Sibley East at 2-10. St. Peter’s 14-0 Section 2AA record (21-6) overall put the Saints atop those ratings and on to the state, eventually defeating the Giants in a 4-3 heartbreaker. The Giants are three years removed from their state tournament appearance and 22-5 record. The next year, the 2016-17 season, the Giants went 10-14. Last year’s 15-11 record after a slow start was a comeback sea-
Le Sueur-Henderson’s Kylie Dunning hits a chip shot to the 18th green last year at New Prague Golf Club. She made Day 2 of the section by shooting 45-45-90 and tying for ninth in Day 1. (St. Peter Herald file photos)
Kelsey Berndt runs into home plate after hitting a grand slam home run, greeted by her cheering team in a win last season. (County News file photo)
son, and Giants coaches are optimistic about the current campaign. MOVED ON No seniors graduated last year. 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK 2018 record: 15-11. The Giants started the year 1-8, playing 10 games in the first eight days that they could get out on the field. After that they finished their last 17 games going 14-3. The Giants finished section runner-up to St. Peter losing 4-3. “St. Peter is the team to beat,” Lewis said. “They have been in the section finals four years in a row, have won it the last two years in a row, and have a senior pitcher that has pitched
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in all four of those games. Our section always seems to be very competitive, as there are many good teams. “Our goal like every year is to work to get better everyday and play our best ball at the end of the year.” COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “We are excited about the 2019 season. Girls have been working hard so far. We have a goal of getting better everyday, and playing our best ball at the end of the year.” BY THE NUMBERS 5 — Seniors this year 12 — Returning players from a year ago who played significant innings in 2018.
Giant golf teams each return 4 letter winners By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
Le Seur-Henderson/Cleveland/Sibley East Boys and Girls Golf COACHES Head coach: Mike McNulty, first year at LS-H, eight previous years as golf coach Assistant coaches: Craig Hink, assistant coach last year also KEY PLAYERS Girls: Makenna Reinhardt (10) and Kylie Dunning (12) return to team — last year state participants. Reinhardt placed third in section with 88-83-171. Dunning finished seventh in section with 90-88-178 at New Prague. At state, Reinhardt shot 88-98-186 to tie for 56th overall out of 87 golfers at Ridges at Sand Creek
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in Jordan, and Dunning carded 100-100-200 to tie for 72nd. Boys: Ian Krenik (12) top returning player, made second day of section last year and placed 32nd with 87-97-179 at New Prague. KEEP YOUR EYE ON Letter winners returning from last year are Makenna Reinhardt, Kylie Dunning, Kindra Spinler (12), Whitney Wieck (12), Will Becker (11), Kyle Thelemann (11), Blake Olness (12) and Alex Wilson (12). MOVED ON Kendall Lusty (Cleveland graduate), Jack Ammann (transferred to Mankato Loyola) 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK In Section 2AA last season, the Giant girls finished fifth out of 12 teams, and the boys placed
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Blake Olness of Le Sueur-Henderson sends a putt toward the 18th hole last year at Montgomery.
seventh out of 14 teams. In the Minnesota River Conference last season, the Giant girls finished second to champion Jordan out of five teams, and the boys placed fourth out of five teams behind champion Jordan, runner-up TriCity United and third place Belle Plaine. “Girls team returns five of six players from last year’s section team — should be a threat to win some conference meets and compete for section title,” McNulty said. COMMENTS FROM THE COACH “Golf is a life sport, we are here to learn, compete and to love the game of golf.” Mike McNulty, head coach
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PAGE 18
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
Deep Giants track teams hope to send many to state Le Sueur Henderson Track and Field
The Le Sueur-Henderson trap team has nine girls and 41 boys.
LS-H trap team aims high for state, nationals Le Sueur-Henderson Trap Team HEAD COACH Deanne McConnell, 7th year KEY PLAYERS Seniors: Alan Eotvos, Justin McConnell, Andrew Randall, Jagger Borgmann, Carter Gaffaney, Collin Ernsting, Blake Wilet, Fred Richardson and Nate Weyl. Juniors: Reid Johnston, Emma Johnston, Kyle Krenik and Joel Berglund. Sophomores: Lincoln Drent, Devin Preuhs, Cole Leonard, Hailey Ehlers, Dayson Bittner, Sam Menne, Jace Kabes, Zach Plonske, Abby Stowell, Mason Davis and Sarah Lawrence. Freshmen: Nick McConnell, Elsa Strom, Caroline Tuck, Tristin Bittner, Garek Dobosenski and Tyler Miller. KEEP YOUR EYE ON Lincoln Drent and Elsa Strom MOVED ON Ben Bauleke, Gavin Dobosenski, Aiden Fulghum, Taylor Svihel, Tim Otto, Kris Doyle, Andrey
Le Sueur-Henderson trap team practices Tuesdays after school out at Caribou Gun Club in Le Sueur. (Photos courtesy of Deanne McConnell)
Merwin and Joe Froelich. 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK “We are looking forward to another season of growth and development for our shooters. I think we will do well by season end at the State Championship with a goal of being able to shoot at the State Tournament and another appearance at the National Tournament,” McConnell said. COACH COMMENTS “We have a lot of key shooters returning this year. There is high
motivation with our top shooters to attend the National Tournament. I’m excited to see where this team is at by season end.” — Deanne McConnell, head coach BY THE NUMBERS 35th — in the Nation in 2018 (first appearance at the National Tournament) 50 — Athletes on the team (9 girls) 9 — Seniors 8th — Season in the Clay Target League
COACHES Head coach: Sue Hynes, 13 years of coaching track Assistant coaches: Lynessa Walters, 1 year; Terry Turek, 12 years; Ann Zeiher, 1 year KEY PLAYERS Vicky Flores: 12th grade, 5 year letter winner, strengths in the 800, 1,600 and 3,200 Gabby Straub: 12th grade, 5 year letter winner, strengths in the hurdles and high jump Karina Lieske: 11th grade, 1 year letter winner, strengths in the sprints and relays William Clarke: 12th grade, 3 year letter winner, strengths in the long, triple and high jumps and the 200 Gabe Webster: 12th grade, 3 year letter winner, strengths, shot and disc, placed 7th in state in 2018 Lane Schwarz: 12th grade, 4 year letter winner, strengths in anything that is 400 and up Jorge Hernandez: 12th grade, 3 year letter winner, strengths in the sprints Corey Steinborn: 12th grade, 3 year letter winner, strengths in the mid distance Trace Edmondson: 11th grade, 1 year letter winner, strengths in the mid to long distance Matt Skelly: 11th grade, 1 year letter winner, strengths in the sprints KEEP YOUR EYE ON Cooper Vanden Eide, Lexi Terwedo, Drea Terwedo, Hailey Jaurez, Arlett Rios, Abby Strom, Greta Nesbit, Joycelyn Machtemes,
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• Fresh Arrangements • Plants • Candles • Gifts • Titan Clothing • Tuxedo Rentals & Much Much More!
Le Center Floral
Your full-service florist and gift shop Jenniffer Smisek, Owner/Designer 44 E. Minnesota St. | Le Center, MN 507-357-6732
Senior William Clarke holds the Le Sueur-Henderson school record in the triple jump. (Le Sueur County News file photos)
LS-H senior Gabby Straub hopes to finally jump to state.
Meyhlayna Straub, Lukas Graff, Isaias Sanches, Xerxes Machtemes Brenden Lapp, Wes Kim MOVED ON Kim Scheffler, Dana Bach, Jared Miller, Jacob Tesch, Evan Eibes, Matthew Plieseis, Sam Rame 2019 SEASON OUTLOOK “We have several runners who have made it to sections and we should repeat that again this year,
Bring your old paint and household chemicals to the Blue Earth County HHW Facility, located at 651 Summit Ave. in Mankato. This facility is open to residents of Le Sueur, Nicollet & Sibley Counties. Tuesdays 12 noon - 6 p.m. · 2nd Saturdays 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Open April 2nd through October 29th
Got a room to paint? Browse our product ReUse room, where residents can get free usable household products.
Paints & Stains Garden Chemicals Rechargeable Batteries Solvents
Delivering to St. Peter Daily lecenterfloral@hotmail.com www.lecenterfloral.com
and our goal is to send multiple individuals to state,” Hynes said. COACH COMMENTS “We have great leadership from the upperclassmen which is a great asset with such a new coaching staff. We have good depth and numbers on our team and that is going to score us a lot of points during the season.” — Sue Hynes, head coach
Cleaners Old Gasoline Adhesives Aerosols
Mercury Containing Devices (Thermometers, etc.) Fluorescent Bulbs (From households only)
For more information, contact the Tri-County Solid Waste Office at 507-381-9196 www.tricountyrecycling.org
al.christensen@co.nicollet.mn.us
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
PAGE 19
GOOD LUCK
SPRING SPORTS ATHLETES!
Mankato * 507.625.1121 St Peter * 507.931.4000 Gaylord * 507.237.5521
We always put you FIRST!
GETTING YOU WHERE YOU NEED TO BE.
Approved Auto Repair
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE ASSOCIATION
Certified Technicians
Find us on Facebook!
MAY YOU HAVE A # 1 SEASON!
C e le b rat i n g 136 Y ea rs A better way to bank.
of St. Peter
111 Jefferson • 507-934-9290 www.autotronicsofstpeter.com
220 South Third Street • St. Peter • Telephone 931-3310 • www.nicolletcountybank.com
PAGE 20
VALLEY SPORTS PREVIEW
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
2018 Jeep Renegade Latitude 4x4 4 cyl, Heated seats & Steering wheel, Remote start. MSRP $27,415 Lagers Sale Price $25,708 Rebate $1,750 Finance Bonus Cash $1,500* Bonus Cash $1,500
SALE PRICE
$20,958 New 2017 Jeep Wrangler Willys Wheeler 4x4 Auto, Hardtop, Tow Pkg, PW, PDl
2018 Jeep Compass Limited 4x4 Heated Leather, remote start, back up camera, moonroof
MSRP $36,570 Lagers Sale Price $31,976 Finance Bonus Cash $2,000*
MSRP $32,135 Lagers Sale Price $29,182 Rebate $1,250 Finance Bonus Cash $1,000* Bonus Cash $1,000
SALE PRICE
SALE PRICE
$29,976
Stock #12505
2018 Dodge Challenger GT AWD V6, Heated & Cooled leather, Uconnect 8.4
$25,932 Heated seats & Steering wheel, remote start MSRP $32,030 Lagers Sale Price $30,354 Rebate $2,000 Finance Bonus Cash $1,000* Bonus Cash $500
SALE PRICE
SALE PRICE
Stock #12763
$26,854
5.7 Hemi, Tow Pkg, PW, PDL, Uconnect
4 cyl, auto 7 pass, sunscreen, back up camera
MSRP $24,390 Lagers Sale Price $23,248 Rebate $2,750 Finance Bonus Cash $500* Bonus Cash $1,000
MSRP $46,375 Lagers Sale Price $41,526 Rebate $3,000 Finance Bonus Cash $500* Bonus Cash $2,050
SALE PRICE
SALE PRICE
Lager’s St. Peter
Stock #13120
2018 Ram 1500 Crew 4x4 Express
2018 Dodge Journey SE
$18,998
Stock #12869
2019 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Plus 4x4
MSRP $35,635 Lagers Sale Price $33,937 Rebate $750 Bonus Cash $5,250 Finance Bonus Cash $1,000*
$27,687
Stock #12700
Stock #12958
$35,976
Stock #12916
www.lagerschryslerdodgejeep.com 910 Old Minnesota Ave. 507-931-4070 • 800-657-4802 * Must finance with Lager’s Inc. fiance source to qualify. See dealer for details WAC.