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ALL SPORTS PROGRAM 2026-27

ROCK STATE

The All Sports Program is put together in order to promote the 13 athletic programs. Thanks to our designer, Anna Christello, for her help in producing this year’s program and to Almar Printing for printing this year’s publication. We also thank Ryan Kelley ’91, Nick Johnson ’03, Mateo Reynolds ’27, Jack McGovern ’28, and Justus Woods ’29 for providing many of the action photos. The program can be enjoyed in both print and digital versions

(www.rockhursths.edu/asp)

We love working on this publication each year because of the visibility we are able to give to each program. All 13 of our programs deserve so much recognition for the work of Hawklet student-athletes and coaches, from the freshman teams to the varsity squads. Our coaches do so much to help mold these young men into champions in athletics and in life – and of course, the parents are instrumental in this process as well. We hope you enjoy this year’s program, and thanks for your support! Rock State!

TABLE OF CONTENTS 15

CROSS COUNTRY

108

BASEBALL

FOOTBALL

117

GOLF

SOCCER

124

LACROSSE

SWIM & DIVE

134

TENNIS

BASKETBALL

140

TRACK & FIELD

HOCKEY

148

VOLLEYBALL

100

WRESTLING Any comments about the program can be sent to: All Sports Program Editor 9301 State Line Road Kansas City, MO 64114 allsports@rockhursths.edu (816) 363-2036

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ROCK STATE

WELCOME FROM THE PRESIDENT

Dear Rockhurst Community and Our Guests, Welcome to today’s athletic contest! We are so grateful to come together in the spirit of competition that serves the development of the young people we serve today. Of course, there is so much more than competition that takes place in the educational purposes of athletics. Students learn teamwork, self-sacrifice, perseverance, and dedication. They learn how to accept feedback and guidance. They learn how to handle themselves when things go well and when things do not. With an emphasis on virtue education, student athletes at Rockhurst can have action on virtue, as opposed to an idea they consider. Whether winning or losing, they learn how to be reflective in what went well and what did not in order to grow in continuous improvement. The lessons are many and they can help one grow in virtue, but the purpose of today’s activities is rooted in the education and formation we are called to provide young people. We wish for all those participating to grow in what it means to practice sportsmanship. It is for these deeper life lessons to be gained through athletic competition that we salute the dedication of our coaching staff. Our coaches spend countless hours planning practices, strategies, scouting, and directing in order for our studentathletes to be in the best position for competition. But, beyond the coaching, they are working with young men to help them see themselves in

relationship to their teammates, their opponents, the officials, and the results that come with competition. It is in the modeling and formation coaches provide “beyond the game” that help young people move from something immediate, to something that can be life-long in its impact. Thanks to our coaches for their dedication to our student-athletes and managers. And this is the appropriate context for those who cheer them on in competition. Whether we are classmates or teachers, siblings or parents, friends or alumni, we are here in support of the young men who play. May our support be reflective of the highest callings that ground the purpose that answer the question “why” we are here. Thank you to our parents, friends, and benefactors who support the mission of Rockhurst and ensure our very ability to live out this aspect of our mission. And finally, as a Jesuit Catholic school, we thank God - for the many gifts and talents of the studentathletes who share in competition today. We ask that God keep all young athletes competing safe from harm and call forth in all present today, our best selves for the greater honor and glory of God. Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam. We are so glad to be with you today! Enjoy the game. Go Hawklets! Rock State! God Bless, David J. Laughlin President

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ROCK STATE

WELCOME FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Welcome to Rockhurst! As one of 85 schools in the Jesuit Schools Network in the USA and Canada, Rockhurst is a Jesuit high school with a mission to form boys into good, virtuous, and strong young men. Rockhurst fulfills its mission through cura personalis, caring for each student as an individual to guide them into becoming a good man, well-formed in body, soul, and mind. Through a wide range of extracurricular, cocurricular, and athletic activities, students receive the guidance and opportunities needed to grow into men of honor and character. The mission of forming young men through Rockhurst’s athletic programming is carried out through the leadership of Athletic Director Mr. Tom Kruse, Associate Athletic Directors Mr. Kevin McGill and Mr. Billy Thomas, and our seasoned coaches, over 70% of whom are members of our full-time faculty and staff. Their guidance drives our student-athletes toward excellence on and off the field and in body, mind, and soul.

I am deeply grateful for our coaches, trainers, physicians, parents, volunteers, managers, and statisticians who inspire our student-athletes. Their invaluable efforts help our student-athletes move toward healthy development and competition and academic excellence. Perhaps most importantly, they uplift them through prayer in chapel and on the field. I thank Mr. Robbie Haden ’09 and Mrs. Anna Christello for their tremendous effort in publishing this year’s edition of the All Sports Program. On behalf of Rockhurst’s faculty, I offer prayers for the safety, excellence, and honorable competition of our student-athletes, coaches, families, and supporters. May they compete well, finish the race, and keep the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7) Our Lady, Queen of Victories, pray for us.

Fr. Stephen Kramer, SJ Principal

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ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

WELCOME FROM ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

I want to personally welcome everyone to one of the greatest venues in Kansas City. Rockhurst High School is rich with tradition and pride and it is an incredible honor to serve as the Director of Athletics here. We welcome our visiting fans to the campus of Rockhurst High School for an exciting event. We ask that you always show respect to both the officials, and tonight's opponent, and their fans. I am grateful for all those who work behind the scenes to make this game possible.

I am grateful for the great coaches we have in place here, and the time commitment they put in for our young men. They care for our Hawklets as young men first and foremost, and then as student-athletes. I am grateful for the alumni who continue to be invested in our programs. The “Rockhurst Brotherhood” is real, as at almost any sporting event you will run into many alumni that understand what competing for The Rock is all about. Our community support at Rockhurst is unlike any place I have been. I’d like to thank Robbie Haden ’09, Director of Communications & Branding, for his work in putting together the All Sports Program this year and all that he does for Rockhurst.

I am excited for this school year to get underway, and see the many great things that will take place on the fields, courses, pools, gyms, and tracks throughout this year. We have so many opportunities for young men to develop in the areas of faith, service, leadership, and personal growth through athletics. Athletics here at Rockhurst is simply an extension of the classroom. Our young men will hopefully learn that through competition, at the highest level, anything is possible.

Again, I want to thank you for being here and supporting Rockhurst High School. We ask you to show great sportsmanship tonight to our visiting team and their fans and a huge thank you to the officials working our great game. Enjoy the game!!

I am grateful for the partnership that our Athletic Department has with Rockhurst parents. I love seeing our parents' involvement in not only their sons' lives, but the friendships that develop with other families throughout their time here.

Tom Kruse Athletic Director

Rock State,

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ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

ASSOCIATE ATHLETIC DIRECTORS

Associate Athletic Director

Kevin McGill

Billy Thomas

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Director of Community Engagement

Martin Radosevic, Jr. '16

ATHLETIC TRAINER

Athletic Tranier

Paul McGannon brings 40+ years of athletic trainer experience and is a full-time member of Rockhurst’s staff. Previously he was at Sports Rehab doing athletic training coverage, and also was part owner of the company. A 1972 graduate of The Rock, Paul went on to earn his Bachelor of Science at Rockhurst University and his Masters of Science from the University of Central Missouri. His biggest sports influence was being part of the 1985 World Champion KC Royals. An avid hockey fan, Paul is part of NHL21 Civic Group, which attempts to bring NHL games and ultimately an NHL franchise to Kansas City. He was inducted into the Rockhurst Sports Hall of Fame in 2022. Paul and his wife have three sons: PT ’01, Brian ’05, and Kevin.

Paul McGannon '72 www.gohawklets.com

HALL OF FAME

HALL OF FAME Inductees are listed in alphabetical order with graduation year. The year in parenthesis is their induction year. Doug Albers ‘97 (2020) Paul D. Ammatelli ‘82 (2012) W. Robert Aylward ‘45 (2006) Louis Robert Bauers ‘63 (2003) Jon Benson ’10 (2025) Matt Benson ’10 (2025) Eric Berg - Coach (2012) Tony Blevins ‘93 (2018) Brad E. Budde ‘76 (2004) Ted Brooks ‘93 (2020) Peter C. Brown ‘76 (2012) Doug Bruce ‘67 (2008) Dan Boyd ’03 (2021) Patrick J. Caldwell ‘61 (2007) Michael Chonko ‘88 (2016) Aaron Clevinger ‘00 (2020) Jason Cole ‘99 (2019) David B. Cone ‘81 (2005) Sean Connelly ‘98 (2018) John Cooper ‘87 (2011) Jeffrey S. Crippin ‘76 (2004) Jerome C. Culver - Coach (2006) Chris Cummings ‘72 (2009) Chris Damico ‘89 (2015) ●Matt Darby ’00 (2024) Sam Davidson ’01 (2021) Alton Davis, Jr. - Coach (1998) Jim Doriac ‘88 (2018) Sean Doyle ‘99 (2017) Justin Dro ‘97 (2023) William H. Dunn, Sr. ‘40 (2018) Michael Ertz ‘85 (2013) Tom Freeman ‘83 (2010) Zach Frisch ’05 (2022) Robert Gamble ‘89 (2014) J. Randall Gardner ‘72 (2011) Merle Gardner ‘87 (2019) Christopher J. Garlich ‘75 (2004) Jim Gates ‘96 (2018) Ronald L. Geldhof - Coach (2004) Alex George ‘55 (1998) James Gleeson ‘29 (1991) Mark J. Goodspeed ‘75 (2004) Joseph B. Groner ‘64 (2004) Louise Grovenburg - Parent (2006) Eddie Halpin - Coach (1991) Mark Hanrahan ‘76 (2013) Chris Heller ‘89 (2014) Vince Hodes ’90 (2022) Chris Holmes ‘89 (2019) D.J. Hord ’05 (2022) Jim Houston ‘82 (2020) Travis Huenfeld ‘91 (2016) John Hungerford ‘84 (2014) Thomas W. Jantsch ‘77 (2004) Timothy C. Jantsch ‘77 (2004) Matt Jewett ‘00 (2020)

Will John ‘03 (2020) Timothy G. Johnson ‘80 (2005) Kevin Kane ’02 (2021) John Kafka ‘68 (2019) Jeff Koons ’04 (2025) Kevin Kopp ‘93 (2018) Tom Knox ‘88 (2013) Jerry L. Krause ‘56 (2012) William J. Krizman ‘76 (2012) Matthew Krull ‘94 (2016) Chris Lawson - Coach (2020) Len LeCluyse ‘43 (1992) Jon Lecuyer ‘01 (2023) Bill Lillis ‘76 (2009) Helm W. Lillis ‘50 (2007) T. Michael Lillis ‘56 (2004) Thomas Lillis ‘49 (1998) Michael Long ‘84 (2014) Brad Martin ’02 (2025) Pat Mason ‘17 (1991) ●Tim Mauck ’90 (2024) John Mayberry, Jr. ‘02 (2020) Ken Mayer ‘65 (2009) Paul McGannon, Jr. ’72 (2022) Paul McGannon, Sr. ‘44 (2005) ●Michael McGee ’09 (2024) Raymond “Red” McKee ‘25 (1991) William J. McMahon ‘37 (2012) Edward Mehrer ‘56 (1998) Andy Metzler ‘00 (2017) Brian T. Meyers ‘72 (2012) Paul Migliazzo ‘82 (2008) Carelton “Mickey” Miller ‘81 (2013) Steven B. Mingori ‘62 (2007) Harold Mitchem ‘86 (2013) John Morris ’74 - Coach (2021) Christopher Muehlbach ‘73 (2003) Matt Muehlbach ‘87 (2014) Thomas F. Muehlbach ‘64 (2004) Sean Mulcahy ‘72 (2009) Owen Murphy ‘32 (1992) Mark Nusbaum - Coach (2023) Sean O’Donnell ’01 (2021) Thomas “Tay” Officer ‘94 (2019) Jon Osgood ‘97 (2020) Jerome C. Overton ‘55 (2006) Phil Poppa ‘70 (2015) David C. Poskin ‘78 (2005) Chris Powell ‘90 (2015) Rick Pribyl ‘66 (2008) Thomas M. Raimo ‘55 (2007) Kenyon Rasheed ‘87 (2011) Lester Ratcliff ‘84 (2023) Edward Reardon ‘33 (2003) Edward “Jay” Reardon ‘76 (2004) Jerome J. Reardon ‘69 (2012) Kerry Reardon ‘67 (2002)

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Jack Reichmeier ‘49 (1992) Ryan Reid ‘03 (2023) Tim Reidy ’02 (2021) Alonzo Robinson ‘53 (2005) Thomas Robinson ’06 (2022) Bert Roney ‘91 (2019) Matt Roney ‘93 (2016) Christopher Russell ‘87 (2017) James J. Ryan - Coach (1998) W. Stephen Ryan ‘59 (2007) Tim Ryan ‘87 (2010) ●Nathan Scheelhaase ’09 (2024) Todd Schieffer ‘90 (2015) Don Schilling ‘61 (2009) Shawn Schmelzle ‘88 (2011) Kevin Sears ’03 (2021) Tony Severino - Coach (2008) Brandon Shelby ‘00 (2017) Allan Smith ‘05 (2023) Guerin Smith ’05 (2025) McCasey Smith ‘98 (2015) Timothy “Ryan” Smith ‘96 (2016) Raymond Sonnenberg ‘30 (1992) Virgil D. Staponski ‘67 (2007) John A. Steck ‘40 (2006) Janet Cauley Stephenson Parent (2003) Thomas L. Stephenson ‘67 (2012) Mark Stipetich ‘71 (2010) Cecil Stockdale ‘76 (2004) Phillip Strozier ‘06 (2023) John “Red” Sullivan ‘26 (1991) Alex Sweetin ’09 (2025) Conner Teahan ’07 (2022) Mark Teahan ‘78 (2003) John Teasdale ’97 (2022) Joseph Teasdale ‘53 (2003) Tony Temple ’04 (2021) Pat Tierney ‘66 (2009) Beach Tuckness - Coach (2001) Carl Tutorino ‘74 (2019) Brad Tyrer ‘82 (2011) Jason Tyrer ‘88 (2018) Mark Van Keirsbilk ‘85 (2011) ●Nick Vigantelli ’06 (2024) Kevin E. Wall ‘70 (2012) ●Kevin Ward ’00 (2024) Derek Wathan ‘95 (2017) James Whitaker ‘63 (1998) William T. Whitaker ‘77 (2004) Mick White ’10 (2025) Bob Williams ‘48 (1992) John A. Williams ‘50 (2006) Paul Winkeler - Coach (2017) Kevin Wyatt ‘82 (2010) Vic Zahner ‘27 (1992)

HALL OF FAME 2026 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES The page now turns on the remarkable story of athletics at The Rock to this year’s class. Once again, the honorees represent a standard of excellence that sets Rockhurst High School apart from some of the top programs in the nation.

Kevin Hart ’74 - Football Brad Batz ’95 - Baseball Grant Ramsey ’96 - Tennis Michael Duschen ’05 - Track & Field Connor McDonough ’05 - Track & Field Seth Sinovic ’05 - Soccer Eric Sweetin ’05 - Soccer Matthew Margritier ’11 - Swim & Dive Ford McLiney ’11 - Swim & Dive To learn more about the Rockhurst High School Sports Hall of Fame, visit www.rockhursths/hof

HALL OF FAME The Rockhurst High School “Sports Hall of Fame” honors alumni, coaches, and friends who have had a major impact on the school’s athletic tradition. Given The Rock’s storied heritage of sporting excellence in the Midwest, selection to the Sports Hall means recognition among the “best of the best” in Midwestern athletic history. The Sports Hall was established in 1991 by legendary coach and athletic director, Al Davis, Jr., along with his devoted student and friend, Mike Lillis ’56. Since the Charter Class of five men was inducted, the Sports Hall has grown to 162 members, plus the 2026 class of nine inductees, for a total of 171 members.

Honorees were determined by a Selection Committee that carefully reviews nominations by Alumni Class Captains, as well as recommendations from the public at large, before submitting a slate to David Laughlin, President of Rockhurst High School, for his blessing. Formal induction ceremonies occur each year during the Alumni Reunion Week. Members of the Sports Hall have distinguished themselves in many ways and were considered for a variety of reasons to be honored. A breakdown of some of the categorical members is listed. Note that some will overlap between categories.

Category....................................... Members Alumni........................................................ 156 Baseball........................................................8 Basketball..................................................27 Coach............................................................ 11 Football........................................................79 Friend of the program.........................4 Golf..................................................................8 Lacrosse.......................................................4 Multi-Sport................................................47 Soccer..........................................................15 Swim & Dive...............................................7 Tennis............................................................13 Track & Field/CC...................................16 Wrestling.....................................................2

ROCK STATE

Colleges & Universities Accepting Members of the Class of 2026 Arizona State UniversityTempe Auburn University* Babson College* Baldwin Wallace University* Baylor University Bellarmine University* Belmont University Benedictine College* Bentley University Boston College* Bucknell University* Butler University* Case Western Reserve University Clark University College of Charleston Colorado School of Mines Colorado State University Concordia University, St. Paul* Creighton University* Davidson College Delaware State University DePaul University Drake University* Drury University* Elon University* Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Daytona Beach* Fairfield University Farmingdale State College Florida Institute of Technology Florida State University Fordham University Furman University* Georgetown University* Georgia Institute of Technology* Gonzaga University Hamline University* Hampton University Harford Community College* Howard University* Indiana University Bloomington* Iowa State University of Science and Technology Jackson State University John Brown University

Johnson County Community College* Kansas City Kansas Community College Kansas State University* Kent State University Knox College Lewis University Loras College* Loyola Marymount University Loyola University Chicago* Marquette University Metropolitan Community College - Kansas City* Metropolitan Community College - Longview* Miami University-Oxford* Michigan State University* Missouri State University Missouri University of Science and Technology* Missouri Western State University Montana State University Morehouse College Morgan State University Morningside University North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University Northwest Missouri State University Oklahoma State University* Oklahoma State UniversityOKC Olivet Nazarene University* Penn State University Park Pittsburg State University* Purdue University* Queens University of Charlotte* Regis University Rockhurst University* Saint Louis University* Santa Clara University Seattle University* Seton Hall University Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Southern Methodist University* Southern University and A & M College Southwest Baptist University* Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, Tulsa* State Fair Community College State Technical College of Missouri* Stetson University Syracuse University* Texas A&M University Texas Christian University* The Catholic University of America The University of Alabama* The University of Arizona* The University of Iowa The University of Kansas* The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill The University of Tampa The University of Tennessee* The University of Utah The University of the South Tuskegee University United States Navy (Enlisting)* United States Naval Academy* University of Arkansas* University of California, San Diego University of California, Santa Cruz University of Central Missouri* University of Colorado Boulder University of Colorado Colorado Springs University of Connecticut* University of Dallas University of Dayton University of Denver* University of Florida University of Georgia*

University of Hawaii at Manoa* University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign University of Kentucky University of Miami University of Michigan University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Campus University of Mississippi* University of MissouriColumbia* University of Missouri-Kansas City* University of NebraskaLincoln* University of North Dakota University of Notre Dame* University of Oklahoma* University of Oregon* University of Saint Mary* University of San Diego* University of Southampton University of St. Thomas, MN* University of WisconsinMadison University of Wyoming Valparaiso University Villanova University* Wake Forest University* Washington University in St. Louis* Washington and Lee University* Western Michigan University* Westminster College Fulton, MO Wichita State University Wichita State UniversityCampus of Applied Sciences and Technology William Jewell College Wofford College Xavier University Xavier University of Louisiana

* Colleges Attending

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ROCK STATE

Beyond Athletics...College Counseling As a college preparatory high school, Rockhurst is committed to helping students discover collegiate opportunities and programs that meet one’s academic, spiritual, and social needs. Each student who graduates from RHS has the ability to succeed in a college or university setting. The academic foundation instilled by our faculty is the greatest bridge afforded to our students as they make the transition into collegiate studies. Thanks to the context in which our students learn - both in the classroom and through co-curricular activities - each graduate is able to embrace new settings, relationships, and disciplines through a myriad of lenses. The philosophy of the College Counseling Office is to understand and serve the specific needs of each student while enabling him to find a suitable and satisfactory match for his college experience. Through comprehensive programming, which introduces students to the world of college early in their Rockhurst experience, our students receive personal interaction and educational opportunities throughout the year. Ownership of the college selection process belongs to each of the students, while we gladly assist with their exploration, application, and matriculation. With more than 3,200 colleges and universities in the United States, there is a suitable place for each and every graduate. Rockhurst students attend colleges all across the nation with the largest percentage concentrated in the Midwest. Fourteen percent of our 2026 graduates are attending a Jesuit college or university this fall.

4-Year ACT Average..................................26 Attending Catholic Institutions....... 20% National Merit Finalists............................... 7 National Merit Semifinalists..................... 7 National Merit Commended...................9 Advanced Placement Scholars.........50

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ROCK STATE

VISION STATMENT Rockhurst High School will be sought out and recognized for its ability to educate “men for others”. Rockhurst High School will, in the Jesuit tradition, foster lifelong friendships based on enduring principles and Ignatian values. It will be nationally and locally recognized as the best value-added education because of its success in developing community leaders for an increasingly diverse world.

MISSION STATMENT Rockhurst High School serves the greater Kansas City area by educating Ignatian leader, “men for others”, in the Roman Catholic, Jesuit college preparatory tradition in the spirit of Saint Ignatius Loyola, its goal is the formation of the whole person within a diverse and disciplined environment, as one who is open to growth, strives for academic excellence, is religious, loving, and committed to justice through service.

SPORTSMANSHIP It is the desire of Rockhurst High School that good sportsmanship be practiced by students, players, coaches, and fans. Acts such as throwing items on the playing surface, participation in vulgar cheers, participation in cheers against referees, etc., will be considered offensive to RHS as they don’t teach good sportsmanship. Violators will be escorted from the game and could be banned from attending future Rockhurst activities. Please support your school in a manner that will reflect positively on both you and your school.

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S C H O O L S

ROCK STATE

STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS The goal of each Rockhurst team is to earn a banner that will be hung and celebrated in either the performance gym (1st Place) or the Loyola Center (2nd and 3rd Place). Since the school’s first State Championship in 1932 (basketball), Rockhurst has placed in the top-three at State 172 times - almost all coming after the 1960s. Baseball 2004 (2nd) 2010 (3rd) Basketball 1932 (1st) 1949 (2nd) 1970 (2nd) 1971 (3rd) 1986 (2nd) 1987 (1st) 1989 (1st) 2000 (3rd) 2005 (3rd) 2007 (2nd) 2013 (1st) 2026 (3rd) Cross Country 2011 (2nd) 2015 (2nd) 2016 (1st) 2018 (1st) 2023 (2nd) 2024 (1st) Football 1969 (2nd) 1971 (1st) 1973 (2nd) 1981 (1st) 1982 (2nd) 1983 (1st) 1986 (1st) 1987 (1st) 1989 (2nd) 1999 (2nd) 2000 (1st) 2002 (1st) 2007 (1st) 2010 (1st) 2014 (2nd) 2018 (2nd)

Golf 1974 (1st) 1976 (1st) 1977 (3rd) 1978 (2nd) 1979 (3rd) 1984 (1st) 1991 (1st) 1993 (2nd) 1996 (2nd) 1997 (2nd) 1998 (1st) 1999 (1st) 2000 (1st) 2002 (3rd) 2003 (3rd) 2004 (2nd) 2005 (1st) 2006 (1st) 2007 (3rd) 2008 (1st) 2009 (1st) 2010 (1st) 2011 (2nd) 2012 (1st) 2013 (2nd) 2014 (3rd) 2015 (2nd) 2016 (2nd) 2017 (1st) 2018 (3rd) 2019 (3rd) 2022 (1st) 2023 (2nd) 2025 (3rd) 2026 (2nd)

Lacrosse 2001 (2nd) 2003 (1st) 2006 (1st) 2007 (2nd) 2008 (1st) 2009 (2nd) 2010 (1st) 2011 (1st) 2014 (1st) 2017 (1st) 2019 (2nd) 2021 (1st) 2022 (1st) 2023 (1st) 2024 (1st) 2025 (2nd) 2026 (2nd) Soccer 1987 (3rd) 1988 (2nd) 1989 (2nd) 1991 (3rd) 1994 (3rd) 1998 (1st) 1999 (1st) 2001 (3rd) 2002 (2nd) 2003 (3rd) 2004 (2nd) 2005 (3rd) 2006 (3rd) 2007 (1st) 2008 (1st) 2010 (1st) 2013 (1st) 2015 (3rd) 2016 (2nd) 2017 (1st) 2018 (3rd) 2021 (1st) 2022 (1st) 2023 (1st) 2024 (3rd) 2025 (2nd)

Swim & Dive 2005 (1st) 2006 (1st) 2006 (1st) 2007 (1st) 2008 (1st) 2009 (1st) 2010 (1st) 2011 (1st) 2012 (1st) 2013 (1st) 2014 (1st) 2019 (2nd) 2020 (1st) 2021 (1st) 2022 (1st) 2023 (1st) 2024 (2nd) 2025 (2nd) Tennis 1975 (1st) 1976 (1st) 1982 (3rd) 1983 (1st) 1986 (2nd) 1989 (3rd) 1995 (3rd) 1996 (1st) 1997 (1st) 1998 (1st) 1999 (1st) 2000 (1st) 2001 (1st) 2002 (1st) 2003 (1st) 2004 (1st) 2005 (1st) 2007 (1st) 2008 (2nd) 2009 (1st) 2010 (2nd) 2011 (3rd) 2012 (2nd) 2013 (1st) 2014 (1st)

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2015 (1st) 2016 (2nd) 2017 (3rd) 2018 (2nd) 2019 (3rd) 2021 (2nd) 2022 (3rd) 2024 (3rd) 2025 (2nd) 2026 (2nd) Track & Field 1975 (1st) 1976 (1st) 2025 (1st) 2026 (1st) Volleyball 2025 (3rd)

1ST PLACE FINISHES

2ND PLACE FINISHES

3RD PLACE FINISHES

CROSS COUNTRY

cross country

Sophomore Standout Leads Surprising State Squad In 2024, Rockhurst put together arguably the best cross country team in Missouri state history. The Hawklets ran away with the State Title, putting four runners in the top-17, and then went on to finish 13th at Nike Nationals. The problem for the 2025 team? Seven of the team’s top nine runners graduated. And those departures led to lots of outside doubt about the defending State Champs. Heading into the season, projections had Rockhurst ranked around #30 out of the 70 teams in Class 5. Most also had Rock outside of the top-four in its 18-team district, meaning a potential end to the program’s streak of 18 consecutive State Meet qualifications under Head Coach Mike Dierks ’91. One thing that the 2025 team did not lack? A #1 runner. In early-September, just a few weeks into the season, Jack McGovern ’28 went from a top runner in the country in his class to a top runner in the country, period. In 2024, McGovern turned in the best freshman season in Rockhurst history. He was the #3 runner for the State Champion Hawklets that went on to finish 13th at Nike Cross Nationals (NXN). Individually, he placed 8th at State and his 5K PR of 15:17 ranked #11 among all freshmen nationally for the year.

sub-15:00 in mind. Not only would he break that iconic mark, he would shatter it. McGovern won the race in 14:44.70… the fastest 5K ever by a Missouri runner on a Missouri course, which also made him the fourth fastest runner in state history. But McGovern’s magic at Gans Creek wasn’t over. Meanwhile, fellow sophomore Jack Morrison ’28 was also looking to build off of his stellar freshman campaign. Morrison was the #5 runner on the 2024 team and finished 43rd at State. His season PR of 16:13 made him the #6 freshman in Missouri. Jake Bond ’26, most known for his middle distance prowess on the track (1:52.28 in the 800m as a junior) would step up to the varsity cross country ranks following the graduation of five of the team’s top seven runners from the 2024 squad. Charlie Sullivan ’29 would carry the torch as a freshman who would quickly earn a varsity spot, and by mid-season he was in Rock’s top five. Ryne Hallier ’26, Josh Barney ’27, Alex Graziano ’27, Jack Grisolano ’27, Jack Neely ’27, John Henggeler ’28, and Crosby Pullins ’29 all contributed to the varsity group’s success throughout the year. Even in the program’s best years (i.e. 2024), the coaching staff still places a priority on the development of the top JV runners who will be the next in line. The Hawklets began finding their groove at the KC XC Classic hosted at Ray-Pec. Rockhurst finished 2nd out

After starting his season with a runner-up finish at the Todd Warner Kick-Off (15:18) and winning Forest Park in St. Louis (15:05), he headed to Gans Creek with

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cross country

of 23 teams led by McGovern (1st), Morrison (10th), and Bond (32nd) all earning individual medals. The following week, Rock won the Kearney Invitational as all seven runners were medalists, placing in the top-35. The team victory was a nice confidence boost heading into the State Series. The District Championship Meet was held in Nixa, bringing additional logistical challenges and hotel stay before race day. But the Hawklets made no excuses and ran great. Out of the 18 teams, only the top four qualify for State. Rockhurst finished 3rd with 86 points, just six behind 2nd; and four and ten points ahead of 4th and 5th, respectively, in a very competitive race. McGovern was again the race champion, coming through in 14:52, and Morrison was 10th in 15:55. Bond (11th, 15:56) and Sullivan (27th, 16:26) both ran their best races of the season to round out Rock’s medalists as individual State qualifiers. Hallier’s PR of 16:48 made him the team’s fifth scorer and was a big reason Rockhurst edged out the two teams behind them.

As a team, Rockhurst finished in the middle of the pack as the Hawklets placed 8th out of 16 teams. The step back from the team’s State Championship in 2024 sparks a fire for the 2026 squad to return to the State podium. McGovern will return as Missouri’s top runner. The end of his sophomore season ended with a 4th Place finish at the Nike Midwest Regional, becoming the seventh runner in Missouri history to earn a NXN qualification. Racing among the nation’s best in Portland, OR, McGovern was the top sophomore finisher as he placed 10th overall – he is just the second Missouri runner ever to earn Nike All-American status. Rockhurst is proud to boast both: McGovern and Herriott. Coach Dierks expects a balanced and deep group to be ready to hit the course in 2026. More young runners poised to compete for varsity spots include Oliver Acorn ’28, Abram Bland ’28, and numerous other Class of 2029 runners. “The 2026 squad is exciting as we return 13 of our top 15 runners, in addition to adding some talented and driven

With a 3rd Place finish, the Hawklets punched their ticket to State – the 19th consecutive State Championship Meet qualification under Coach Dierks. That is the third longest streak in all of Missouri on the boys side, and the second longest streak in Class 5 (big class).

kids,” said Coach Dierks. “They are working toward putting their mark on the Hawklet distance legacy."

"Heading into the season we knew that a lot of fresh faces would have to step up, but that didn't deter their attitudes and efforts,” said Coach Dierks. “It ended up being a mixture of seniors and youth which steadied the seesaw season at times, showing those flashes of potential. Sharing in the jubilation with the team when they qualified for State was truly memorable.” Rockhurst returned to Gans Creek for the team’s final race of the season. And McGovern shined again in Columbia. The sophomore outlasted an amazingly talented field to cross the finish line first in 14:52.2, beating the next fastest runner by 11 seconds. He became just the fourth sophomore to win Missouri’s big class since 1975. He was also the fourth individual State Champion in Rockhurst history, joining Zach Herriott ’12, Wes Porter ’20, and Henry Acorn ’25. This also marked the rare feat of a school having back-toback unique individual State Champs.

www.gohawklets.com

cross country

2026 HEAD COACH

2026 ASSISTANT COACHES

Assistant Coach

Alex Dobens Coach Dobens ’08 returned to Rockhurst and the cross country and track & field programs in 2020-21. He graduated from The Rock in 2008 and earned several varsity letters in cross country and track; he is a member of the Cross Country All-Time Team. Coach Dobens attended the College of the Holy Cross where he ran collegiately. He entered the teaching and coaching world in 2013 at Bishop Machebeuf High School in Denver before joining Rockhurst’s staff in 2020. He teaches Classical Languages classes, is the Head JV Cross Country Coach, and the Track & Field Distance Coach.

Head Coach

Michael Dierks Coach Dierks ’91 wore many hats during his 29-year full-time work at Rockhurst: Spanish teacher, Journalism teacher, Prep News adviser, Director of Alumni and finally as the Athletic Director. Alongside those roles, he has been involved with cross country and track & field and is continuing as the Head Cross Country Coach after retiring from other duties in 2024. In his 30 years as head coach, the program has qualified for the State Meet 21 seasons (including the past 19 in a row). They have also advanced past the District Meet in all but three of his seasons, and won State Titles in 2016, 2018, and 2024. As a runner at the University of Notre Dame, Coach Dierks has brought a strong pack running philosophy to the program. He relies upon his runners to be competitive, passionate and team-oriented. He recognizes that it is a combination of the internal drive and running for the boys which must motivate endurance athletes. In 2025, Coach Dierks was inducted into the Missouri Track and Cross Country Coaches Association (MTCCCA) Hall of Fame. With more spare time, he enjoys traveling and time with his dog Murphy, while also cheering on his nephew, Connor (RHS ’27).

Assistant Coach

Ryan McAnany Coach McAnany ’12 enters his 10th season at The Rock. He previously spent time as an Alumni Service Corps volunteer at St. Louis University High School in 2016. While a student-athlete at Rockhurst, Coach McAnany excelled in cross country as a three-year letterman and was selected as the 2011 Golden Spike Winner. He was also a varsity track & field letterman. He continued his running career at the University of Dallas. He teaches Scripture & English and serves as the Assistant Pastoral Director in addition to his coaching duties in cross country and track. He and his wife Moira have three young children, Beatriz, Patrick, and Molly.

www.gohawklets.com

cross country

2026 ASSISTANT COACHES

Assistant Coach

Alan Ratermann

Carl Nelson

Coach Ratermann is in his eighth season with the XC team after assisting in 2015 while he was with Rockhurst as part of the Alumni Service Corps. During his time at The Rock, Coach Ratermann has taught English and is also the Director of Ignatian Service Programs. Coach Ratermann graduated from Rockhurst University in 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts in English, Theology, and Nonprofit Leadership Studies. He ran cross country for SLUH (’11) and was a member of their State Championship season. He shares his passion for sport in general and working with anyone committed to excellence.

Coach Nelson ’13 returned to his alma mater as a cross country coach in 2024. A former college athlete, he enjoyed a successful four-year stint running at Regis University in Colorado. He is an accomplished marathon runner and brings that experience to all levels of runners. During the day, Coach Nelson is an accountant. He and his wife, Dr. Bridgett Nelson, returned to KC for her residency. In his free time he enjoys gardening and raising hens for their fresh eggs.

Assistant Coach

Zander Haddad Coach Haddad begins his fourth season coaching cross country. He was raised in St. Louis and attended De Smet Jesuit High School where he ran cross country all four years. He continued his Jesuit education at Rockhurst University, earning his BA in Secondary Education and Spanish. Between his stint as a student teacher at Rockhurst and coming back, he worked at St. Thomas Aquinas as a teacher and assistant cross country coach. He teaches Spanish and is the Spanish Club Moderator, serves as the Head Moderator for the Student Government Association (SGA), and helps with the Pastoral Department.

www.gohawklets.com

cross country

2026 VARSITY SCHEDULE Saturday, September 5

Tim Nixon Invitational

Cap Fed Sports Complex

Saturday, September 12

Forest Park XC Festival

St. Louis, MO

Saturday, September 19

Kris Solsberg Invitational

Lee’s Summit North HS

Friday, September 25

Gans Creek Classic

Columbia, MO

Saturday, October 3

Kansas City Classic

Raymore, MO

Saturday, October 10

Kearney Invitational

Jesse James Park

Saturday, October 31

District Championship

TBA

Saturday, November 7

State Championships

Columbia, MO

2025 SEASON RESULTS

Todd Warner Kick-Off

2nd out of 11 teams with 65 points

Forest Park XC Festival

6th out of 24 teams with 199 points

Gans Creek Classic

7th out of 32 teams with 291 points

KC XC Classic

2nd out of 23 teams with 153 points

Kearney Classic

1st out of 26 teams with 57 points

District Championship

3rd out of 18 teams with 86 points

State Championship

8th out of 16 teams with 210 points

www.gohawklets.com

cross country

ALL-TIME TEAM Tim Jantsch Tom Jantsch Matt Blake Jeff Bresette Stewart Gillin Patrick Fanning Hans Van Zanten Pat Robinson Hal Marsh Michael Schaefer Chris Brown Rory Donnelly Sean O’Donnell Chris Winger Brennan Metzler Brian Graham Patrick Tweedy Jeff Poskin Evan Daugherty Alex Dobens Michael Neisius Enrique Mejia Matt Neisius Zach Herriott Ryan McAnany Tanner Shuey Van Schloegel William Thompson Gray Ryan Sam Wilkerson John Luder Danny Toomey Peter Campbell Andrew Connor Luke Hupke Will Reboulet Tom Seitzer Wes Porter

1977 1977 1985 1986 1987 1991 1992 1993 1995 1999 2000 2000 2001 2001 2003 2003 2004 2005 2008 2008 2009 2010 2010 2012 2012 2012 2013 2015 2016 2016 2017 2017 2018 2018 2019 2019 2019 2020

Cross Country 2026 Team Page & Schedule

www.gohawklets.com

cross country 2025 SEASON STATS Top 15 5,000 meter times Name

Time

Course

*$# Jack McGovern

14:44.7

Gans Creek

* Jack Morrison

15:34.2

Gans Creek

* Jake Bond

15:56.0

Nixa

* Charlie Sullivan

16:26.4

Nixa

Jack Grisolano

16:34.8

Gans Creek

Ryne Hallier

16:48.4

Nixa

Jack Neely

16:56.8

Gans Creek

John Henggeler

17:06.8

Staley

Crosby Pullins

17:09.5

Gans Creek

Alex Graziano

17:21.6

Gans Creek

Guy Jacobs

17:24.2

Gans Creek

Benjamin Patt

17:25.9

Gans Creek

Landon Hochstein

17:28.1

Gans Creek

Henry Pfeifauf

17:32.0

Olathe North

Joshua Barney

17:32.7

Gans Creek

District Championship Inman Elementary School - Nixa, MO Name

5K Time

Place

Avg/Mile

*@$ Jack McGovern

14:51.9