JumpStart - Spring 2017 Sports Preview by Austin Daily Herald

Table of Contents

Cover story

Going up and over

Austin’s Sydney Marsh pushes forward in quest to get better Page 3

Season previews

Austin Packers.......Pages 4-9 Southland Rebels............. Pages 10-11 LeRoy-Ostrander Cardinals...........Pages 12-13 Grand Meadow Superlarks.........Pages 14-15 Lyle-Pacelli.........Pages 16-17 Blooming Prairie Awesome Blossoms.......... Pages 18-20 Hayfield Vikings.............Pages 21-22

An Austin Daily Herald publication

Story previews compiled by Rocky Hulne, Photos and layout by Eric Johnson

Features

Riverland baseball and softball schedules

Page 23

5 Things to Watch

A rundown of the top five story lines to watch during the spring of 2017. Page 13

State Tournament Headquarters

Get the lowdown on all tournaments. Page 23

Follow sports writer Rocky Hulne and photographer Eric Johnson on Twitter

@RockyHulneADH

@EricJohnsonADH

Get all the reports, scores and photos from your area sports teams

University of Minnesota

Men’s and Women’s schedules. Page 24

Bruins 2016-17 in pictures

Page 24

Hayfield’s Kate Kruger smiles as she trots home after her three-run homerun against Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton in their Section 1A West tournament game last season. Herald file photo

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

Going up and over Austin’s Sydney Marsh pushes forward in quest to get better By Rocky Hulne Austin junior Sydney Marsh is no stranger to fear. She’s even beginning to conquer it. The pole vaulter competed in her first ever Minnesota Class AA State Track and Field Meet last season, where she placed 11th and now she’s looking to make an even bigger impact this spring. Marsh spent a good portion of the winter lifting weights and staying shape in anticipation of the track and field season. “We worked a lot [on pole vault] in the summer, but I wasn’t able to work over the winter,” AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

Marsh said. “I’m excited to get started again and make some more progress this year.” Marsh had humble beginnings in the pole vault as she started competing in the event as a seventh grader. She recalled having the fear of falling into the pit or having a pole land on her back, but she never stopped trying to get better. “I always kept going. If you never fail, you’re never going to get better,” Marsh said. “If you mess up it’s OK, you just have to keep improving. It just took a lot of practice and motivation. Coaches told me it was going to be scary the first time, but it would get better. After so many years, it’s gotten easier and easier.”

See MARSH, Page 4

Austin assistant coach Pete Walker shows Sydney Marsh a replay of one of her vaults at the Minnesota Class AA State Track and Field Meet last year. Herald file photo

“If you mess up it’s OK, you just have to keep improving. — Sydney Marsh FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Two 2016 state qualifiers leading the charge Younger runners showing early promise

Schedule / Home meets in bold

The Austin girls track and field team brings back two state qualifiers and it also has a group of younger athletes who could be big contributors this season. Austin brings back senior Odongonga Oballa, who took eighth in the 400-meter dash at the Minnesota Class AA state meet last season and junior Sydney Marsh, who took 11th in the pole vault, also returns to the lineup. “The girls are working hard. We've got a fantastic group of freshmen this year,” Austin head coach Nancy Jones said. “They're really coachable, they're showing some promise and we're looking forward to see where we're at.” Austin will look to Amber Hansen to lead the team in throwing, Paiton Schwab and Abby Lewis will step up in the distance events, Miranda Bergemann will lead in middle distance running and Paige Raymond will lead in the hurdles. Raymond said the team has been working together to prepare for the season. “We're trying to get back in shape and get more people to that level,” Raymond said.

May 4................................................at Mankato East, 4 p.m.

April 13 ................................................vs. Albert Lea, Kasson-Mantorville, Stewartville, 4 p.m. April 18................................at Rochester Century, 4:30 p.m. April 21.......................................Austin Invite, 4 p.m. April 25...............vs. Owatonna and Winona, 4:30 p.m. May 9.......................................................at Farmington, TBA May 16........................................at Mankato West, 4:30 p.m. May 25..........at Big Nine Meet in Mankato West, 10:30 a.m.

Austin’s Odongonga Oballa rounds turn three during the 400 meter dash last year during the Minnesota Class AA State Track and Field Meet at Hamline University. Herald file photo “With the hurdlers, we're always trying to help each other out and we're pushing each other to get faster and better. I think it's like that with every event group.” Lewis, a sophomore, went to the state

cross country meet in the fall, but she suffered a hip injury. Jones said the team will have to hold her back until she’s ready. “She had a really good cross country season and I know she's frustrated right now be-

cause she can't run,” Jones said. “Sometimes with athletes like that, you have to hold them back.” Hansen broke the AHS record in the shot put last season and Jones said her goals will be even bigger this season. “We want to see Amber get to state this year,” Jones said. “That's a goal for her and we'd love to see that happen. We'd like to not only have her have the shot put record by the end of the season, but the discus record as well.” Austin will also look to its younger athletes to step up as eighth grade distance runners Molly Garry and Emma Keenan will be asked to contribute along with eighth grader Elaina Bentley in the sprints. Freshman Tori Watkins and sophomore Taige Iverson should also have a big impact.

Marsh: Starting where she left off From Page 1 Going into the season last year, Marsh was happy to vault as high as 10 feet, then she put up a height of 10-feet, 6-inches at the Section 1A Meet and she landed a height of 10-3 at the state meet. Marsh was inspired to take her work ethic to a new level after she competed with the state’s best at state last season. Now she’s focused on making an even bigger mark this spring. “The state meet made me enjoy pole vault-

“The state meet made me enjoy pole vaulting more and it made me think that maybe I can do it in college.” — Sydney Marsh ing more and it made me think that maybe I can do it in college,” Marsh said. “I’m hoping to make it to some of the big meets. I’m hoping to get back to state and get back to the Hamline Elite meet. I want to start this year where I left off last year and keep improving.”

Austin’s Sydney Marsh competes in the pole vault at the Minnesota Class AA state track and field meet in St. Paul last season. Herald file photo

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

Gash eyeing trip to state and record The Austin boys track and field team has a balanced roster as it looks to field a competitive squad in 2017. The Packers return Jany Gash, a two-time state qualifier in the triple jump. Gash took fourth at the Minnesota Class AA state meet in the triple jump last season as he became the first Austin boy to reach the state podium since 2010. “His expectations for himself are far higher than mine [for him],” Austin head coach Ryan Timm said of Gash. “I think he wants to go for the school record and he won’t be happy unless he gets it.” The Packers will look to Sam Hagan and Sam Bailey to led the way in the sprints, Thomas Kroymann and Pat Hagan should step up in the throws and Joe Kroymann and Henry Hinchcliffe should step up in the distance events. Joe Kroymann said the Packers began to pick up their energy level after the basketball team wrapped up play in the state tournament. “After state basketball, we’re excited to come back with the mentality that we’re ready to go to practice every day and just work hard,” Kroymann said. “We’ve got a few guys in every different discipline in track. We’ve got good throwers, we’ve got good jumpers and we’ve got good runners. We’ve got a lot of people

Schedule / Home meets in bold April 13..................vs. Albert Lea, Kasson-Mantorville, Stewartville, 4 p.m. April 18..............................................at Albert Lea, 4:30 p.m. April 21.......................................Austin Invite, 4 p.m. April 25..............................................at Owatonna, 4:30 p.m. April 27...........................................at Stewartville, 4:30 p.m. May 2....vs. Mankato East, Rochester J. Marshall, 4:30 p.m. May 4................................................at Mankato East, 4 p.m. May 9.......................................................at Farmington, TBA May 16....vs. Mankato West, Rochester Mayo, 4:30 p.m. May 25..........at Big Nine Meet in Mankato West, 10:30 a.m.

that are going to be competitive in different events.” Timm said the team has a lot of new athletes ranging to every grade level and he’s excited to see what the team has to offer when things get started. “This group is working really hard. I’m happy to see the positive atmosphere,” Timm said. “I’ve always enjoyed coaching, but I’ve gotten more comfortable it’s gotten more fun for me and I’ve gotten to know the kids. This is my third year working with some of them.”

Austin’s Jany Gash makes one of his jumps in the preliminaries of the triple jump during the Minnesota Class AA State Track and Field Meet at Hamline University last season. Herald file photo AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Krock takes over the reins of Austin baseball The Austin baseball team has a new coach and a lot of new players in tow as it looks to get things going this spring. The Packers will turn to first year head coach Joe Kroc to lead a team that graduated a bulk of seniors from a team that went 8-12 overall last season. Kroc, an Austin grad, previously coached the Austin Post 91 Legion baseball team. “It’s been good,” Kroc said. “Even during state basketball, the guys had a lot of energy in the morning practices. Everything we’ve asked for as a coaching staff, they’ve done. I can’t complain about anything that they’ve done so far.” The Packers have plenty of players who can step up this season, including seniors Forest Lewis, Tanner Steene and Evan Horstmann. Also looking to step up will be Jack Dankert, Phillip Zynda and Hunter Guyette, who will likely see time at catcher as Zynda comes back from a knee injury. “A lot of guys have been working in the fall and winter towards this season and we’re excited for the young guys to step up. It should be a fun year,” Dankert said. “We have to buy in. We’re not at team that’s going to hit the long ball, but if everyone buys and plays small ball we should be alright.” Kroc said there are a few players in the sophomore class that could make an immediate impact this season. He likes what he’s seen from that group and he’s been emphasizing the team to build up its work ethic in practice. “One thing we’ve been focusing on is making sure we have energy and focus every minute of practice,” Kroc said. “We’re hoping that can translate into the seventh inning and help us get some wins.” Lewis said the Packers have adjusted quickly to playing under Kroc and the team has picked up the pace early on. “It’s very high tempo. They’re pushing us really hard and we’re all giving it our all every day,” Lewis said. “We have a lot of juniors and sophomores stepping up to fill up spots. We have the potential and with the coaches pushing us, we should be able to make a

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Austin’s Phillip Zynda lifts the ball during an at-bat against Faribault Saturday afternoon at Dick Seltz Field. Herald file photo good run.” The Packers will rely on a bulk of pitchers to keep the rotation balanced. The key will be to find pitchers who can throw strikes. “We’re ready for the season and we’re working hard every day. Everyone can step up for us,” Steene said. Austin junior Pete Conner said the Packers will have a good spring if the whole team plays to their capabilities. “As long as everyone buys into their role, we’ll be pretty successful,” Conner said.

Schedule / Home games in bold April 4.................................................Stewartville 1, Austin 0 April 8.........................................vs. Albert Lea, 1 p.m. April 11.........................................vs. Faribault, 5 p.m. April 13...........................................vs. Winona, 5 p.m. April 14....vs. Alexandria at US Bank Stadium, 1:45 p.m. April 15...............vs. Northfield, doubleheader at noon April 18......................................................at Red Wing, 5 p.m. April 20...........................at Rochester John Marshall, 5 p.m. April 22.............................................................at Byron, noon

April 25......vs. Rochester Mayo, doubleheader at 4 p.m. April 27.............................................at Mankato West, 5 p.m. May 2.....................................vs. Mankato East, 5 p.m. May 4......................................................at Owatonna, 5 p.m. May 9............................................................at Winona, 5 p.m. May 11..........................................vs. Red Wing, 5 p.m. May 16...................vs. Rochester John Marshall, 5 p.m. May 19..........at Rochester Century, doubleheader at 4 p.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

Packers hoping to build on late 2016 success The Austin softball team is hoping a late playoff run last year and a solid summer can carry over and get the Packers going this spring. Austin, which finished 7-17 overall last season, won three playoff games to reach the final three in the Section 1AAA tournament. This year, the Packers are hoping to start a little faster as they look to seniors Cally Heiny, Hannah Burkhart, Ally Wood, Emily Billings and Justine Reimers to lead the way, along with a strong core of juniors. “I think our seniors will have to step up in a leadership capacity for us. We've got a good group of juniors, and we've got some sophomores and freshmen,” Austin head coach Al Eckmann said. “We've got a little bit of everything.” The Packers bring back the pitching duo of juniors Hannah Rasmussen and Tori Gardner and junior starters Adison Medgarden and Halie Rettarath are also back in the lineup. Rasmussen pitched throughout the playoff run in 2016 and she’s hopping to be even more effective in 2017. “Last year helped me a lot, being a younger pitcher. Now I know what to expect and I have my junior and senior season to try to get to state,” Rasmussen said. “We need to work as a team and we need to all get along. We can't let outside of softball programs have an impact on our play.” Eckmann is hoping Rasmussen and Gardner can take their game to a new level this spring. “They're getting to be veterans and we need to count on them. I think our pitching will have to step up and be pretty good and it should be pretty good,” Eckmann said. “I think our defense is going to be outstanding. We've been picking up everything and our hitting is not too bad either.” Heiny said that last year’s playoff run has the Packers thinking positive headed into this season. “We’re excited to get this season going and we’re excited about the team we have here,” Heiny said.

Austin catcher Courtney Kusick looks the ball in on a play at the plate against Rochester Century in the Packers’ 2017 season opener under the Wescott Athletic Field dome. Herald file photo Eckmann credited his coaching staff with helping to prepare for the Packers for the season and he said it also helps to have the Dome. The Packers are hoping to put together a solid season, but the Big Nine is loaded with Mankato West and Winona, who played in the state title game last season, and Northfield is expected to be tough as well. “Experience helps, but the Big Nine is going to unbelievable this year,” Eckmann said. “There's a lot of good teams. It's going to be tough, but we'll be ready and we'll go after them.”

“We’re excited to get this season going and we’re excited about the team we have here.”

— Cally Heiny Senior

Schedule / Home games in bold March 30..............................Rochester Century 14, Austin 0; Rochester Century 6, Austin 5 April 3..........................................Austin 9, Blooming Prairie 2 April 4....................................................at Stewartville, 5 p.m. April 6.........................................vs. Northfield, 5 p.m. April 10.....................vs. Kasson-Mantorville, 4:30 p.m. April 11......................................................at Faribault, 5 p.m. April 13.........................................................at Winona, 5 p.m. April 18.........................................vs. Red Wing, 5 p.m. April 20..................vs. Rochester John Marshall, 5 p.m. AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

April 21..............................................vs. Byron, 5 p.m. April 25.............at Rochester Mayo, doubleheader at 4 p.m. April 27..................................vs. Mankato West, 5 p.m. May 2..................................................at Mankato East, 5 p.m. May 4..........................................vs. Owatonna, 5 p.m. May 6......................................................at Albert Lea, 11 a.m. May 9..............................................vs. Winona, 5 p.m. May 11.......................................................at Red Wing, 5 p.m. May 16.............................at Rochester John Marshall, 5 p.m.

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Packers hitting court with returning core

Austin’s Jens Ourada returns at No. 2 singles during the Packers’ match against Northfield last year. Herald file photo

Several returning Austin players saw time with the varsity last season The Austin boys tennis team has a strong group of returnees as it looks to have a competitive season on the tennis courts. The Packers will look to captains Josh Brehmer, Noah Kremin, Jens Ourada and Todd Weaver to lead the way. “Brehmer, Kremin, Ourada and Weaver are ready to have a good year,” head coach Jeff Anderson, who is in his fourth year as Packer tennis coach said. “We also have

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Schedule / Home meets in bold April 4..........................................Austin 4, Faribault 3 April 6..........................................at Mankato West, 4:30 p.m. April 11...............................................at Northfield, 4:30 p.m. April 13.............vs. Rochester John Marshall, 4:30 p.m. April 15....................................................at Albert Lea, 9 a.m. April 18................................vs. Stewartville, 4:30 p.m.

April 20................................................at Red Wing, 4:30 p.m. April 22..............................................at Mankato East, 9 a.m. April 25......................................vs. Winona, 4:30 p.m. April 27...................................................at Waseca, 4:30 p.m. May 1.................................................at Owatonna, 4:30 p.m. May 13.........................at Big Nine Meet in Rochester, 9 a.m.

some guys that played some varsity last year but should step into some positions,

and we have quite a few new players that are good athletes and should be able to

help us this year.” The Packers graduated just one senior from last year and Anderson likes the energy has team shown early on. “The strength of our team is our work ethic. Many of these guys played all winter in Rochester and so far in practice I see a very hard working team,” Anderson said. “We would like this season to be a stepping stone to building a program that is successful on and off the court.” AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

Austin boys golf will look to fill vacancies The Austin boys golf team will have to turn to some new leadership as it looks to replace four very consistent golfers who graduated from last year’s team. The Packers will now look to senior Mati Parada and junior Noah Bawek, who both saw some varsity time last season, to lead the way. “Noah’s come a long way mentally and he’ll be ready to step in,” Austin head coach Matt Raso said. “Matias got out and played a lot this summer and he seems really involved in getting better. We’re going to need those two to set the tone. We have some capable guys to fill out the varsity spots. It’s tough when you have a group of kids that have been — Mati Parada on varsity for Senior four years and then they all graduate. I’m excited for some guys who have been working hard for the last three years to get opportunities.” Jake Halsey and Chase Callahan will also fill in for the Packers this season. Parada said it will be up to a handful of players to carry the team scores during meets. Parada spent a bulk of his summer golfing, and he’s looking to make his senior season his best one. “I want to take this season extremely serious. Our top three or four guys are going to have to consistently pull the scores, because we don’t really have a deep team,” Parada said. “Last year we had Ethan [Morey] and James [Snee] anchoring the team and this

“I want to take this season extremely serious..”

Austin’s Noah Bawek chips a shot at Austin Country Club last season. Herald file photo year [Noah and I] have to be the anchors.” Bawek has been with the Packers since he was an eighth-grader, and he’s ready to take the next step and develop as a leader this season. “Mati and I really have to step up to the plate this year. We’ll have to consistently shoot on the 70s or 80s, and one thing we’ll always need to work on is the mind game. We’ve got to lead by example,” Bawek said. “We’re always good to each other, and I think it’s going to be another fun season in

the van.” While the Packers do have talent on the team, they are limited in depth. Raso said he wants to see the number of golfers in the program begin to grow. “The thing is we’ve got to find ways to get younger kids involved in started in fifthor sixth-grade,” Raso said. “Getting good at golf takes time and it takes multiple years before you figure things out. We’ll teach them some life lessons as well. It’s more than just golf.”

Schedule / Home meets in bold April 8........................................at Hayfield Invite, 9:30 a.m. April 17.............................................at Northfield, 2:30 p.m. April 21..................................vs. Red Wing, 2:30 p.m. April 24............vs. Faribault, Mankato West, 2:30 p.m. April 26..................................................at Rochester, 1 p.m. May 1..........................................at Mankato East, 2:30 p.m. May 4.....................................................at Northfield, 2 p.m. May 9..................................at Rochester Century, 3:30 p.m. May 15..............................................at Albert Lea, 3:30 p.m. May 23.....................at Big Nine meet in Rochester, 10 a.m. May 25.......................................................at Winona, 2 p.m.

Austin girls hoping to see years of hard work paying off The Austin girls golf team has fielded a young squad over the past few years and a lot of those golfers are now veterans who are hoping to take their game to a new level this season. The Packers will lean on their lone senior in Anna Schara and a strong group of juniors that includes Kristina Thorson, Madison Hasley and Maddie Brown. Schara said she has come a long way with AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

Schedule / Home meets in bold April 17..................................vs. Northfield, 2:30 p.m. April 18......................................................at Red Wing, noon April 20................................................at Red Wing, 2:30 p.m. April 25.................................................at Faribault, 2:30 p.m. May 1....vs. Mankato E., Roch. John Marshall, 2:30 p.m.

May 8......................................................at Winona, 2:30 p.m. May 9.................................................at Red Wing, 12:30 p.m. May 15.................................vs. Albert Lea, Owatonna, Rochester Mayo, 2:30 p.m. May 23.......................at Big Nine Meet in Red Wing, 10 a.m.

her confidence on the course. “I remember when I was younger and I

was so scared; now it’s a lot easier to play on varsity,” Schara said. “I’m excited. I think this

season I’ll do really well, and I want the team to do well. I want the girls to get comfortable and really like the sport.” Austin has nine golfers on the roster, and Thorson said the team is close and ready to compete. “Even though we have small team, we have a lot of juniors. I think that we’ll be a better team and we’re tight knit,” Thorson said. FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Chris Webber pitches for Southland in Marcusen Park last season. Herald file photo

Southland looking to juniors to give them boost in 2017 season The Southland baseball team will look to a big junior class to give it a boost as it looks to bounce back from last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 6-12 record. The Rebels have seven juniors on this

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s squad; including returning starters Isaac Eissinger, Jared Landherr and Bret Matthews. The Rebels will also got a boost from senior pitcher Chris Webber.

Schedule / Home games in bold April 4....................................Southland 7, Chatfield 0 April 6...............................at Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 5 p.m. April 7...............................vs. Wabasha-Kellogg, 5 p.m. April 10...............................................at Saint Charles, 5 p.m. April 11....................................vs. Dover-Eyota, 5 p.m. April 13...................................at GMLOK in Kingsland, 5 p.m. April 21..............................vs. Fillmore Central, 5 p.m. April 25....................................................at Caledonia, 5 p.m. April 27...............................vs. Lewiston-Altura, 5 p.m.

April 28.............................................at Winona Cotter, 5 p.m. May 2........................................vs. La Crescent, 5 p.m. May 4........................................at Rushford-Peterson, 5 p.m. May 5.........................................................at Chatfield, 5 p.m. May 9.....................vs. Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 5 p.m. May 11.........................................at Wabasha-Kellogg, 5 p.m. May 12....................................vs. Saint Charles, 5 p.m. May 16..................................................at Dover-Eyota, 5 p.m. May 18.............................................vs. GMLOK, 5 p.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

Accounting for vacancy Rebels have to make up for 10 who graduated The Southland softball team graduated 10 seniors from last year’s squad that went 5-16 overall, but the Rebels hope to reload and improve this season. Southland will look to veteran players Ramsey Gillson, the teams’s lone senior, and Lily Riddles to lead the way on the field. “I believe communication will be a strong point with these Girls. They did very well last year and I think they will do well with it this year,” said Southland head coach Greg Schulte, who is in his 12th year at the helm. “A weakness, would be lack of experience. Only one senior and six juniors; we are going to have a young team.” The Rebels have four players back with varsity experience, and Schulte is hoping the rest of the team can adjust quickly to varsity softball. “We want to try and do better than the year before. However, we’ll take one game at a time,” Schulte said. Southland second baseman Lily Riddles leaps to make a catch against Dover-Eyota in Rose Creek last season. Herald file photo

Schedule / Home meets in bold April 4.............................................Chatfield 14, Southland 0 April 6....................vs. Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 5 p.m. April 7..............................vs. Wabasha-Kellogg, 5 p.m. April 10...................................vs. Saint Charles, 5 p.m. April 11................................................at Dover-Eyota, 5 p.m. April 13...........................................vs. GMLOK, 5 p.m. April 21..........................................at Fillmore Central, 5 p.m. April 25.......................................vs. Caledonia, 5 p.m. April 27.....................................at Lewiston-Altura, 4:30 p.m.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

April 28.................................vs. Winona Cotter, 5 p.m. May 2....................................................at La Crescent, 5 p.m. May 4.............................vs. Rushford-Peterson, 5 p.m. May 5...........................................vs. Chatfield, 5 p.m. May 9...............................at Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 5 p.m. May 11.........................................at Wabasha-Kellogg, 5 p.m. May 12................................................at Saint Charles, 5 p.m. May 16.....................................vs. Dover-Eyota, 5 p.m. May 18...............................at GMLOK in Spring Valley, 5 p.m.

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

GMLOK baseball hoping work ethic can give boost The Grand Meadow/LeRoy-Ostrander/Kingsland baseball team brings back eight players from last year’s team that went 9-12 overall. The Bulldogs will look to Zach Myhre and Drew Copley to lead the way as the team replaces four seniors from last season. “Our strength is our work ethic and our weakness is our low number of players,” GMLOK head coach Jamie Fenske, who is in his sixth year at the helm, said.

“Our strength is our work ethic and our weakness is our low numberr of players.” — Jamie Fenske Head coach

Schedule / Home games in bold April 6.......................................................................................at Wabasha-Kellogg, 5 p.m. April 7..............................................................................vs. St. Charles, 5 p.m. April 10..............................................................................................at Dover-Eyota, 5 p.m. April 13............................................................................vs. Southland, 5 p.m. April 18...................................................................................................at Chatfield, 5 p.m. April 25........................................................................................at Fillmore Central, 5 p.m. April 27.............................................................................vs. Caledonia, 5 p.m. April 28........................................................................................at Lewiston-Altura, 5 p.m. May 2.........................................................................vs. Winona Cotter, 5 p.m. May 4.................................................................................................at La Crescent, 5 p.m.

May 5.............................................................................at Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 5 p.m. May 8............................................................................vs. Dover-Eyota, 5 p.m. May 9.....................................................................vs. Wabasha-Kellogg, 5 p.m. May 11.............................................................................................at Saint Charles, 5 p.m. May 12.................................................................vs. Rushford-Peterson, 5 p.m. May 18..................................................................................................at Southland, 5 p.m. May 19...............................................................................vs. Chatfield, 5 p.m.

GMLOK gunning to continue improvement behind 9 seniors T he Grand Meadow/LeRoy-Ostrander/Kingsland softball team will be senior heavy this year. The Bulldogs improved from

1-14 the year before to 13-10 last season, losing to 8-0 to Pine Island in the playoffs. The squad features nine seniors.

All home games in Kingsland

Schedule / Home games in bold April 4.......................GMLOK 13, Plainview-Elgin-Millville 5 April 6..............................vs. Wabasha-Kellogg, 5 p.m. April 7....................................................at St. Charles, 5 p.m. April 10...................................vs. Dover-Eyota, 5 p.m. April 13..................................................at Southland, 5 p.m. April 18........................................vs. Chatfield, 5 p.m. April 20.................................vs. Mabel-Canton, 5 p.m. April 25..............................vs. Fillmore Central, 5 p.m. April 27...................................................at Caledonia, 5 p.m. April 28..............................vs. Lewiston-Altura, 5 p.m. April 29..................................vs. Saint Charles, 2 p.m. May 1.......................................at Rushford-Peterson, 5 p.m. May 2...............................................at Winona Cotter, 5 p.m. May 4.......................................vs. La Crescent, 5 p.m. May 5...............................at Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 5 p.m. May 8...................................................at Dover-Eyota, 5 p.m. May 9..........................................at Wabasha-Kellogg, 5 p.m. May 18......................................vs. Southland, 5 p.m. May 19......................................................at Chatfield, 5 p.m. All home games in Spring Valley

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

5 Stories to watch

Third time’s a charm?

The Hayfield softball team has competed in the last two Minnesota Class A state softball tournaments, but the Vikings went winless in each of those state appearances. Hayfield lost two crucial seniors from last year’s squad, but it brings back a strong core of juniors who will lead them this season. The team also returns standout shortstop Kyal Heydt, who was one of the team’s top players as a freshman before she missed last season with an ACL inury.

A new leader of the Pack

The Austin baseball team will look to former Packer and Austin grad Joe Kroc to take charge this season. Kroc led the Austin Post 91 Legion baseball team to a state tournament in 2015, and he’s ready to lead a team that has a strong junior and sophomore class this spring.

Encore performance? Last season, GMLOKS runner Peter Torkelson made a big splash in multiple events as he earned a school record and he was able to get to the podium at the Min-

nesota Class A state track and field meet. Torkelson, a senior, owns the GMLOKS record in the 1600-meter run, the 3200-meter run and the 300-meter hurdles, and he took third in the 3200-meter run at state last season. Torkelson will be a major contender to medal in both distance races at state this spring.

On track to finish strong

The Austin boys and girls track and field teams will both have plenty of contenders to make some noise at the Section 1AA and Class AA state meet this spring. The boys team brings back two-time triple jump state qualifier Jany Gash, who took fourth at state last season, and the team has plenty of other quality athletes as well. The girls team returns Odongonga Oballa, a sprinter, and Sydney Marsh, a pole vaulter, who both went to state last season and the Packers also have a strong group of freshmen that should push the team to new levels.

Youth movement

The Austin softball team has a big group of juniors and sophomores, and even a freshman, in the lineup as it looks make strides throughout the season. The Packers return junior pitcher Hannah Rasmussen, who led Austin to three straight postseason wins in 2016, and Austin is hoping to recapture some of that magic.

Hayfield catcher Grace Mindrup hoists pitcher Jacinda Gustine after the final out in the Section 1A championship last season.

GMLO golf setting sights on conference championship The GMLO boys golf team will look to contend for a conference title as it brings back two all-conference golfers into the mix. GMLO will look to Mark Cotton, who is in his fifth year on varsity, and Grant Vikre, who is on his second year on varsity, to lead the way. “We have good numbers, but we have to replace four lettermen who graduated,” GMLO head coach Craig Knight, who is in his 11th year at the helm, said. “We want to contend for a conference title.”

“We have good numbers, but we have to replace four lettermen graduating.” — Craig Knight, coach AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

Schedule / Home meets in bold

April 8............................Boys at Hayfield Tournament, TBA April 11.........................................at Saint Charles, 4:30 p.m. April 13.......................at Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 4:30 p.m. April 18...........................................at Dover-Eyota, 4:30 p.m. April 21.............Southland Invite in Adams, 12:45 p.m. April 28..................................vs. Kingsland, 4:30 p.m. May 1.................................................................at Triton, TBA May 2....................................vs. St. Charles, 4:30 p.m. May 5.................................vs. Dover-Eyota, 4:30 p.m. May 8...................................................at Chatfield, 4:30 p.m. May 9...................................at Saint Ansgar, Iowa, 4:15 p.m. May 12.............vs. Plainview-Elgin-Millvlille, 4:30 p.m. May 16...............................................at Kingsland, 4:30 p.m. May 25.................at Three Rivers meet in Rochester, 2 p.m.

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@RockyHulneADH and @EricJohnsonADH FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Peter Torkelson of GMLOKS runs with a herd of runners in the 1600-meter run at the Minnesota Class A State Track and Field Meet in St. Paul last year. Herald file photo

Seniors tasked with pacing GMLOKS boys track The GMLOKS boys track and field team will will look to a strong group of five seniors to lead the way as it hopes to make strides this spring. Peter Torkelson, who owns the GMLOKS record in the 1600-meter run, the 3200-meter run and the 300-meter hurdles, will return to lead the GMLOKS. Torkelson also took third in the 3,200-me-

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

ter run at the Minnesota Class A State Track and Field Meet at Hamline Unviersity last season. Mason Heimer, Christophor Bain and Drew Lewison will also step up in leadership roles. “We only have five seniors out this year and three sophomores,” said GMLOKS head coach Chris Detert, who is in his third year at

the helm. “That is going to hurt us. But the seniors we do have will contribute a lot to the team.” GMLOKS has 11 total athletes with varsity experience, and Detert hopes the squad can make it a successful season. “I would like to win the southeast conference title again this year, send as many kids as I can to the section meet and hopefully

Schedule / Home meets in bold April 11......................................................at Hayfield, 4 p.m. April 18................................................at Stewartville, 4 p.m. April 20..........................................................at Triton, 4 p.m. April 25........................................at Blooming Prairie, 4 p.m. May 2..........................Invite at Grand Meadow, 4 p.m.

get some kids to the state meet,” Detert said. AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

GMLOKS brings back 3 state qualifiers The GMLOKS girls track and field team will return three athletes with state meet experience as it turns to a new head coach this season. Aaron Thauwald is the new head coach at GMLOKS and he’s looking forward to working with a strong group that includes returning state qualifiers Lauren Buccholtz, Emily Hovden and Jordyn Glynn. Katelyn Luthe should also step — Aaron up for GMLOKS. “Our relay teams are the strongest component of our team,” Thauwald said. “We should be competitive in those events in nearly every meet this year. We need a little work on the field events, such as throwing.” GMLOKS has 20 athletes with varsity expe-

rience, and the team has just five seniors. The squad is hoping to continue improving on last year’s success. “We look to send a few individuals to state along with a few relay teams,” Thauwald said. “We want our team to be competitive in every meet this year, including conference, sub-sections and even sections.” Thauwald Thauwald said that BucCoach choltz, Luthe and Hovden have stepped up as leaders for the team. “They have the leadership qualities that every team needs to be successful,” he said. “They are hard working, motivated and they care about the success of the team.”

“Our relay teams are the strongest component of our team.”

Jordyn Glynn runs in the 4 x 200-meter relay for GMLOKS at the Minnesota Class A state track and field meet in St. Paul last year. Herald file photo

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Athletics combining youth, experience “We need our seniors and juniors to step up ... we need them to lead the younger kids and teach them what it is to play our style of baseball.”

The Lyle-Pacelli baseball runs when it is at the plate. “We will be solid defensiveteam will look to a mix of ly with all of our outfield back youth and experience as it and good athletes who will replaces a bulk of last year’s fill in at the infield positions,” team that went 18-5 overall Meyer said. “Offensively we before losing in the Section will be a differen- looking 1A semifinals. team than in the past. We LP brings back five starters, don’t have the power like but it graduated the bulk of its years past, so we may have to pitching leaders and hitting play some small ball to creleaders from last year. ate runs, but I think we have “We need our seniors and good knowledgeable baseball juniors to step up not only to players to do that.” play well and to replace our Meyer said it’s hard to preseniors from last year, but dict how the young players we need them to lead the will come along this season, younger kids and teach them but he’s hoping the team will what it is to play our style of grow as the year goes on. baseball,” said LP head coach “It’s really hard to know Brock Meyer, who is in his — Brock Meyer what this team can do this sixth year on the job. Head coach year. With a mix of older and LP has multiple young younger players, it should be pitchers who will need to an interesting year,” Meyer learn to pitch at the varsity said. “Probably a lot of ups and downs.” level, and it will have to learn to manufacture

Schedule / Home games in bold April 11........................vs Glenville-Emmons, 4:30 p.m. April 13......................vs. Schaeffer Academy, 4:30 p.m. April 18...........................................at Spring Grove, 4:30 p.m. April 20................................at Schaeffer Academy, 4:30 p.m. April 22......................Lyle-Pacelli Tournament, 10 a.m. April 25......................................vs. Houston, 4:30 p.m. April 27................................................at Randolph, 4:30 p.m. April 29............................vs. Blooming Prairie, 10 a.m.

May 1...................................................at Cleveland, 4:30 p.m. May 2................................vs. Mabel-Canton, 4:30 p.m. May 5....................................at Glenville-Emmons, 4:30 p.m. May 9..................................vs. Spring Grove, 4:30 p.m. May 11.............................................................at Triton, 4 p.m. May 16...................................................at Houston, 4:30 p.m. May 18.....................................vs. Randolph, 4:30 p.m. May 19.......................................vs. Hayfield, 4:30 p.m.

RIGHT: Lyle-Pacelli’s Taylor Arett pitches against United South Central in the Section 1A West tournament last season at Riverland Community College. LEFT: Lyle-Pacelli’s Bryce Strouf slides past Glenville-Emmons third baseman Hunter Robertson in Marcusen Park. Herald file photos

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

Lyle-Pacelli a young but experienced team The Lyle-Pacelli softball team continues to have a very young roster, but the team finally has some experience on its side as it brings back seven players who have been playing since they were seventh-grader, and it will have nine total letter-winners back from last season. LP graduated just one player from last year’s team that finished 4-13 overall. The team’s lone senior — Danielle Hinz, who was All-SEC and All-Section 1A last season, returns as LP’s primary pitcher and utility player. Sophomore Abby Bollinberg will return as the team’s lead-off hitter and shortstop. “A lot of the players have worked on their game in the off season through summer ball, fall ball and dome ball this winter,” LP head coach Jeff Yocom said. “The girls are challenging each other for positions, which most can play multiple positions, which we stress.” LP has three pitchers it can use in the circle as Hinz, sophomore Miranda Arkells and freshman Andrea Cecil may all see playing time. “All have a different styles of pitching and Im confident in all three,” Yocom said. “Our infield should be solid, although young. Our hitting should be decent too.” Yocom said his players still needs to work

Schedule / Home meets in bold

April 10.............................vs. Alden-Conger, 4:30 p.m. April 11......................vs. Glenville-Emmons, 4:30 p.m. April 13.....................vs. Schaeffer Academy, 4:30 p.m. April 25....................................vs. Houston, 4:30 p.m. April 27...............................................at Randolph, 4:30 p.m. April 28...............................at Schaeffer Academy, 4:30 p.m. April 29.........................Lyle-Pacelli Tournament, TBA May 1.................................................at Cleveland, 4:30 p.m. May 2...............................vs. Mabel-Canton, 4:30 p.m. May 4.......................................vs. Hayfield, 4:30 p.m. May 5...................................at Glenville-Emmons, 4:30 p.m. May 9..........................................at Mabel-Canton, 4:30 p.m. May 12......................................................at Triton, 4:30 p.m. May 13........................................at Hayfield Invite, 8:30 a.m. May 16..................................................at Houston, 4:30 p.m. May 18...................................vs. Randolph, 4:30 p.m.

Lyle-Pacelli’s Abby Bollingberg runs towards third base against GMLOK in Todd Park last year. Herald file photo

on their knowledge of the game at times, but he thinks the Athletics have the potential to

pick up a few more wins and pursue a playoff victory in 2017.

“If these girls play their game, they can play with anybody, which I’m very excited about,” Yocom said. “I think we should finish 500 or above. We would also like to win a playoff game.” Yocom is in his fourth year and said this year’s squad could surprise some opponents. “I’ve not been this excited as I have been this year,” he said. “These girls work hard in practice and bond well together.”

LP track coach looking for competitive year S

chedule

April 11 .............................................. at Hayfield, 4:30 p.m.

The Lyle-Pacelli track and field team will turn to a new head coach as it looks toward the upcoming season. Nathaniel Kenne, who has been an assistant track and field and cross country coach, takes over the program, and he’s hoping he can keep athletes focused on trying to improve. “It’s our job as the coaches to help these students improve as athletes and as young people,” Kenne said. “The level of motivation you can develop from sports can be carried well beyond the season.” Nathan Drees will serve as the captain of

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

“The level of motivation you can develop from sports can be carried well beyond the season.” — Nathaniel Kenne Head coach the LP boys team, and Caitlin Roberts will be the captain of the LP girls. Both have provided solid leadership early on. Kenne said his team has found a good sense of camaraderie, and he expects that to

help the squad in competition. “They all get along with each otherand push each other to be better and try new things,” he said. “We are looking at continuing to improve our veteran athletes and help them reach their goals for this season. We also have several new additions to the team, so we’re working on helping them develop their skills in the events they are wanting to try out.” Kenne said LP will be short on some entry spots during meets, but he’s still expecting the squad to compete and have a great year.

April 13 .................... at Plainview-Elgin-Millville, 4:30 p.m. April 22 ........................................at Pine Island, 10:30 a.m. April 25 ................................at Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. April 27 .............................................. at Hayfield, 4:30 p.m. May 2................... at GMLOKS in Grand Meadow, 4:30 p.m. May 4 ............ at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 4:30 p.m. May 16 ................ at GMLOKS in Grand Meadow, 4:30 p.m. May 19 ................................................... at Triton, 4:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Blooming Prairie looking to break out of growing pains Blossoms bring back large majority of last year’s squad The Awesome Blossoms are hoping another year of growth can help them improve on last year’s record of 3-18 overall. BP graduated just one player from last year’s team and it brings back — Matt Kittelson its leading Head coach hitter in freshman Seth Peterson. The Blossoms will also look to juniors Brad Staska and Max Romeo and seniors Connor Getchell, Ben Smith and Camden Heimerman to lead the way this spring. “We are looking to get better each and every day,” said BP head coach Matt Kittelson, who is in his third year at the helm. “Our goal is to go out and compete in every single game and put

“We are looking to get better each and every day.”

Blooming Prairie’s Seth Peterson gets back to second base just before the tag of Hayfield’s Jake Olive in Blooming Prairie. Herald file photo ourselves in a position to contend for the Gopher Conference and the 1A West Sub-Section.” BP has 10 players with varsity experience, but the team will miss the one player who graduated: Riley Olson, who was the second leading hitter and led BP in innings pitched last season. “We will need to rely on a number of guys to step up and provide quality innings on the mound, especially with a new pitch count rule going into effect,” Kittelson said.

Schedule / Home games in bold April 6....................................................at Maple River, 5 p.m. April 7...............................................vs. Triton, 4 p.m. April 10..........................................vs. Medford, 5 p.m. April 13.......................vs. United South Central, 5 p.m. April 17..................at Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, 5 p.m. April 20..........................vs. New Richland-HEG, 5 p.m. April 21....vs. Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton, 4:30 p.m. April 24..................at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. April 29................................................at Lyle-Pacelli, 10 a.m.

Blossoms softball ready to take the next step The Blooming Prairie softball team is hoping to take the next step as a program, but it must stay healthy as it prepares for the upcoming season. Lonnie Lembke, who was a co-head coach for BP last season, will take over as the head coach this season, and he’s looking to lead a team that has 13 players back from last year’s team that finished 10-14 overall, but it made it to the Section 1A semifinals. BP graduated three players from that team, but it has two five-year varsity players in tow in center fielder Bria Baldwin and pitcher/shortstop Elly Strunk. “They both have five years of varsity experience so the team and I both will be looking at them to lead the team,” Lembke said. “We also have a strong group of juniors that have experience and will be looked to lead our younger girls.” Junior outfielder Linnea Sunde, junior pitcher/shortstop McKenna Hein and freshman catcher Maya Lembke all played big roles last season and will all be big factors this year as well. BP has just 14 players in high school on the team, so the team must avoid being injured, but Lembke feels there is potential for

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Blooming Prairie’s Elly Strunk heads into her wind-up against Wabasha-Kellogg during the Section 1A Tournament at Todd Park last season. Herald file photo

May 1 .......................................vs. Maple River, 5 p.m. May 2.....................................................at Hayfield, 4:30 p.m. May 4..........................................................at Medford, 5 p.m. May 8 ....................................at United South Central, 5 p.m. May 9.............................vs. Schaeffer Academy, 5 p.m. May 11..........vs. Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, 5 p.m. May 15......................................at New Richland-HEG, 5 p.m. May 18..........vs. Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. May 19...........................................at Mankato Loyola, 5 p.m.

Schedule / Home meets in bold April 3........................................Austin 9, Blooming Prairie 2 April 7.....vs. Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton, 4:30 p.m. April 10......................................................at Medford, 5 p.m. April 11....................................vs. Maple River, 5 p.m. April 13.................................at United South Central, 5 p.m. April 17........vs. Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, 5 p.m. April 20....................................at New Richland-HEG, 5 p.m. April 21..............................vs. Mankato Loyola, 5 p.m. April 24 ........vs. Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. April 25........................................vs. Triton, 4:30 p.m. May 1....................................................at Maple River, 5 p.m. May 2...............................at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 4:30 p.m. May 4............................................vs. Medford, 5 p.m. May 8.........................vs. United South Central, 5 p.m. May 11..................at Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, 5 p.m. May 13...................................................at Randolph, 11 a.m. May 15...........................vs. New Richland-HEG, 5 p.m. May 16......................vs. Rochester Lourdes, 4:30 p.m. May 18.................at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m.

the squad. “We want to finish all games strong, be at the top of our conference, and be there at the end in the section tourney,” Lembke said. “I feel we are progressing quickly. I am very impressed with the younger girls stepping up and playing with confidence. If this continues, we will be a contender at the end.” AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

The Blooming Prairie boys golf team made history by earning its its first ever trip to the Minnesota Class A State Golf Meet last year, and Taylor Christianson earned her third straight trip as an individual to the state girls golf meet. Herald file photo

Blooming golf team ready to follow up on historic 2016 state tournament season The Blooming Prairie boys golf team made school history last season and the BP girls have a perennial state qualifier in the lineup as they look to keep the momentum going headed into this season. The BP boys earned the first trip as a team to the Minnesota Class A state golf meet last season as they finished fifth as a squad. BP graduated two golfers from that team, but cohead coach Cory Hendrickson said the hopes are still high. “I feel like we have some kids in our program who have ability to not only get to the state tournament, but be in contention for a AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

state championship,” Hendrickson said. “Our boys team has to replace two really good players in Jon Hatch and Ethan Strunk, but I feel like they can be very competitive in both the Gopher Conference and in Section 1A.” Senior Taylor Christianson has competed in the last three state meets and took sixth place last year, and senior Tommy Braaten has competed in two state meets and took fourth place last year. “Taylor and Tommy have been playing high school golf for years and have experienced lots of success,” Hendrickson said. “As a coach, I expect that they will show our young-

er, less-experienced golfers the proper way to practice and perform in meets.” The girls team has just three golfers on the team as eighth-grader Jessica Ressler has varsity experience, and the boys team returns Lucas Noble and Jake Ressler, along with Braaten. “Our biggest strength, in my opinion, is that even though we don’t have lots of kids out for golf, the ones we do have are extremely committed to getting better and having fun,” Hendrickson said. “That makes the job of a coach much easier.” Hendrickson and Carl Peterson are in their second year as co-head coaches for BP.

Schedule / Home meets in bold April 6.................................vs. Triton, 4:30 p.m. (B,G) April 8.............................................at Hayfield, 9:30 a.m. (B) April 11...........................at New Richland-HEG, 4:30 p.m.(B) at Stewartville, noon (G) April 13........................at Alden-Conger Invite, 4:30 p.m. (G) April 18..................................at Alden-Conger, 4:30 p.m. (B) April 20............................................at Stewartville, noon (B) at Blue Earth (G) April 22...................Blooming Prairie Invite, 9 a.m. (B) April 25..............Blooming Prairie Invite, 4:30 p.m. (B) at Triton (G) April 27 .........................at New Richland-HEG, 4:30 p.m. (G) May 1....................................................at Triton, 1 p.m. (B,G) May 2...........................................at Blue Earth, 4:30 p.m. (B) May 4................................Blooming Prairie Invite (G) May 11....at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 4:30 p.m. (B,G) May 15........................................at Waseca, 12:30 p.m. (B,G) May 18..................at Gopher meet in Waseca, 10 a.m. (B,G) B-Boys, G-Girls FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

BP girls track team has returning experience in all areas The Blooming Prairie girls track and field team will look to its seniors to step up and lead the way as it looks toward a successful season on the track this spring. BP will look to sprinter Kylie Forystek, thrower Leah Inwards, distance runner Allison Pryor, and pole vaulter and sprinter Leah Schiefert to step up. BP will also get a boost from juniors Asia Thostenson, a hurdler and sprinter; Sam Wurst, a middle distance runner; and freshmen Gemini Johnson and Jayde Wacek, Baylee Sorenson and Viridiana Villaraell. Eighth-graders Abby

Bratten, Anna Kittelson, Greta Sunday and Taylor Wurst will step up as well. “Our mid-distance continues to be a strength for our team. We have some younger kids coming into the sprints and long distance that I hope can give us a boost,” BP head coach Kari Botin said. “Our field events continue to be a strength as well. I am looking for Leah Inwards score a lot of points in shot put and discus and for Leah Schiefert to give us a boost in the pole vault. Also, Sam Wurst was really coming on strong in the high jump last year and we hope to continue

to build that up as well.” BP has the majority of its team back from last season and Botin is hoping every athlete can contribute on meet days. “We use all of our kids in the meets. It’s good to be able to move kids around a bit and fill in the gaps that we have had in the past,” Botin said. “We are hoping to continue to build our program and fill in some holes from last year. The hurdles have been a weakness for us, so we are hoping to get more girls hurdling and hoping to get some of our young long distance runners involved as well.”

Schedule / Home meets in bold April 11 at Hayfield, 4:30 p.m. April 18 at Stewartville, 4:30 p.m. April 25 Blooming Prairie Invite, 4:30 p.m. April 27 at Hayfield, 4:30 p.m. May 1 at Gopher Meet at United South Central, 4:30 p.m. May 2 Blooming Prairie Invite, 4:30 p.m. May 9 at Rushford-Peterson, 1 p.m. May 16 at Gopher Conference Meet in Medford, 4:30 p.m.

Blooming boys track team will feature a lot of newcomers The Blooming Prairie boys track and field team have a lot of newcomers in the mix as they look towards growing throughout the season. BP has 10 players back from last season with varsity experience, and the team has added 17 athletes, including a larger group of middle schoolers and freshmen. “We have a few [freshman] athletes who will consistently score points, but for the most part our strength will be in our flexibility to

“We have a few [freshman] athletes who will consistently score points but for the most part our strength will be in out flexibility to use well-trained, hungry novices where they pick up points.” — Ryan Slack BP head coach use well-trained, hungry novices where they can pick up points,” BP head coach Ryan

Slack, who is in his fifth year on the job, said. BP graduated two seniors from last year’s

team, and the Awesome Blossoms will look to senior middle distance runner Elijjah Baker and senior pole vaulter Quentin Kubista to lead the way. “Both of these boys are good mentors to younger athletes, which we really need on our young team,” Slack said. “We have many other leaders on our team, but our other section and maybe state hopeful is junior Alec Ille in the distance events.”

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Continuing a state tourney trend The Hayfield softball team will have to replace some of its big leaders from a group that has gone to back-to-back Minnesota Class A State Softball Tournaments as it looks to continue that trend this spring. The Vikings graduated standouts seniors Jackie Sanvick, a pitcher, and Grace Mindrup, a catcher who is now playing at UW-La Crosse, and this team has no seniors. That means the Vikings will lean pretty heavily on a junior class that includes Kyal Heydt, who is coming back from an ACL injury; Alexis Dudycha, Jacie Gustine, Kate Kruger, Olivia Matti, Carrie Rutledge, Maggie Streightiff and Brooke Zahnle. Hayfield will also look to eighth-graders Jenna Jacobsen and Cailtyn Hendrickson to step up. “I have not figured out which junior will be our vocal leader. Each player is very good at holding themselves accountable for their game,” Hayfield head coach Jana Wagner said. “We have work to do but each year our

The Hayfield softball team greets Maggie Streightiff after she hit a three-run homer in the 10th inning against Pine River/Backus in the Minnesota Class A State Softball semifinals in Mankato last year. Herald file photo

Hayfield golf team falling back on seniors The Hayfield boys golf team will look for its three seniors to lead the way this season. The Vikings will look for Andy Pike, Jackson Heydt and Tanner Boelter to lead a team that has two freshmen and a seventh-grader on the roster.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

“We want to make it as much fun as we can and make sure we see progress,” Hayfield head coach Kevin Bronson said. “I’m really excited for this season. I think we can really surprise some people this year.”

Schedule / Home games in bold April 4............................................Hayfield 9, Faribault BA 5 April 6................................at Kasson-Mantorville, 4:30 p.m. April 10................................................at Goodhue, 4:30 p.m. April 11..................................vs. Randolph, 4:30 p.m. April 13.............................at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 4:30 p.m. April 17 ..vs. Janesville-Waldord-Pemberton, 4:30 p.m. April 20................................at Rochester Lourdes, 4:30 p.m. April 24.................................vs. Alden-Conger, 5 p.m. April 25......vs. Pine Island, 4:30 p.m.; vs. Byron, 6 p.m. May 1......................................vs. Lake City, 4:30 p.m. May 2...............................at United South Central, 4:30 p.m. May 4...............................................at Lyle-Pacelli, 4:30 p.m. May 8........................................................at Chatfield, 4 p.m. May 9...........................................vs. Triton, 4:30 p.m. May 13.......................Hayfield Tournament, 8:30 a.m. May 16...............................at Zumbrota-Mazeppa, 4:30 p.m. May 17................................vs. Stewartville, 4:30 p.m. May 18...............................vs. Cannon Falls, 4:30 p.m.

goal is to improve upon last year’s outcome. If we can take the solid base of experience and push the girls to work on the small things with a positive attitude, it is possible we could vie for another state berth.” Hayfield was struck by the injury bug again this season as junior Kelly Johnson sustained an ACL injury.

Schedule / Home meets in bold April 8..................................Hayfield Invite, 9:30 a.m. April 18....................................at Zumbrota-Mazeppa, noon April 20..................................................at Stewartville, noon April 21...........................................at Southland, 12:45 p.m. April 22........................................at Blooming Prairie, 9 a.m. April 25..........................................................at Triton, 1 p.m. April 27..........................................at Cannon Falls, 2:30 p.m. May 2...................................Hayfield Invite, 2:30 p.m. May 4...............................................at Pine Island, 2:30 p.m. May 9........................................................at Triton, 2:30 p.m. May 15..............................at New Richland-HEG, 12:30 p.m. May 16.................................................at Lake City, 2:30 p.m. May 18....................................at Southland Invite, 4:30 p.m. May 24...............................at HVL meet in Rochester, 8 a.m.

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Vikings plan to make solid run behind returners The Hayfield baseball team is looking to make a solid run as it brings back six returning starters from last year’s team that went 13-11 overall last season. The Vikings will lean on senior pitcher Adam Fjerstad and senior catcher Dominic Dublin. “Adam Fjerstad has been one of the best pitchers in the conference for the past couple seasons, and every game he has been able to throw to fellow senior Dominic Dublin behind the — Kasey Krekling plate,” Haycoach field head coach Kasey Krekling said. Hayfield has 11 seniors on its roster this season, and most of them have a lot of varsity experience. “We have a strong senior class, and they will lead the team by example,” Krekling said. “They have been at the varsity level for a couple years now and know what it takes to compete at a high level. It’s always nice to have strong players at pitcher and catcher, and we have two seniors that have been very good starters for us at those two positions since their

“We have a strong senior class and they will lead the team by example.”

Hayfield’s Adam Fjerstad fires home against Lyle-Pacelli Friday in Hayfield. Herald file photo sophomore year.” Hayfield will need to search for pitching depth this season due to a new pitch count rule, but Krekling thinks the team can stay competitive. “We want to compete for an conference title in the always tough HVL Blue Division and then make a deep postseason run come playoff time,” Krekling, who is in his sixth year at the helm, said.

Schedule / Home games in bold April 6.......................................................at Triton, 4:15 p.m. April 7...................at Faribault Bethlehem Academy, 5 p.m. April 10........................vs. Kasson-Mantorville, 4 p.m. April 13...................................vs. Stewartville, 4 p.m. April 17...vs. Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton, 4:30 p.m. April 18.............................at Zumbrota-Mazeppa, 4:15 p.m. April 20...................vs. Kenyon-Wanamingo, 4:30 p.m. April 22.............vs. Goodhue, doubleheader at 11 a.m. April 27..........................................................at Byron, 5 p.m.

May 1......................................vs. Lake City, 4:30 p.m. May 2...........................vs. Blooming Prairie, 4:30 p.m. May 5........................................at Rochester Lourdes, 4 p.m. May 8..........................................vs. Triton, 4:15 p.m. May 13................at Cannon Falls, doubleheader at 11 a.m. May 16.............................at Kenyon-Wanamingo, 4:30 p.m. May 18.....................vs. Zumbrota-Mazeppa, 4:15 p.m. May 19.............................................at Lyle-Pacelli, 4:30 p.m.

Hayfield’s boys and girls track teams bring back numbers Vikings load up roster with juniors Girls showing off early work effort The Hayfield boys track and field team will bring back ten athletes with varsity experience as they look to make a mark this season. Hayfield’s lone senior Trey Chatman is facing knee surgery, so the Vikings will look to juniors Masen Walsh, AJ Johnston, Kyle Jacobsen, Jacob Reynolds and Tucker Cordle to lead the way. “We had several athletes make some tremendous gains last season, and it appears that they are picking up right where they left off,” Hayfield head coach Vince Reynolds, who has been at the helm for 17 years total, said. “Our numbers are good for the size

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Schedule / Home meets in bold April 11................................Hayfield Invite, 4:30 p.m. April 18...........................................at Stewartville, 4:30 p.m. April 22..........................................at Pine Island, 10:30 a.m. April 27................................Hayfield Invite, 4:30 p.m. May 2.......................at GMLOS in Grand Meadow, 4:30 p.m. May 9.......................................at Rushford-Peterson, 1 p.m. May 13.........................at HVL meet in Stewartville, 10 a.m. May 16..................................................at Pine Island, 4 p.m. May 19.....................................................at Triton, 4:30 p.m.

school we are, but will struggle to fill every event.”

The Hayfield girls track and field team graduated just two athletes from last year’s team and it has 12 players back with varsity experience as the Vikings look to have a solid squad. Hayfield head coach Kellie Baker said the team has shown some strong energy and work ethic early on. “We are a team and really push the team concept,” said Baker, who has been head coach for 10 years. “Everyone is more than willing to step up when

needed and help each other. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been on the team.” Hayfield has a handful of new athletes on the team and the Baker is looking to find events to plug them into. There is certainly a lot of energy around Hayfield as the season draws near. “I’m excited that the track season is here,” Baker said. “In the last week and a half of practice, the athletes have been working really hard. I think it is going to be a great season.” AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

Riverland Schedules Baseball

Riverland 14, Presentation 0 Riverland 11, Presentation, 3 Miles CC 3, Riverland 2 (8 innings); Riverland 5, Aurora 4 Riverland 11, Malone University 4 Riverland 5, Itasca 4 Riverland 13, Anoka-Ramsey 3 Ellsworth 3, Riverland 0 Ellsworth 11, Riverland 6 April 6.................vs. St. Mary’s, 2:30 p.m. April 8........................at Central Lakes, 2 p.m.

Softball

Lake Region 23, Riverland 0 Lake Region 12, Riverland 0 Itaca 11, Riverland 8 Lake Region 13, Riverland 3 St. Cloud Tech 6, Riverland 5 St. Cloud Tech 12, Riverland 2 Lake Region 12, Riverland 2 Itasca 10, Riverland 2 RCC 3, Minnesota West 2 Minnesota West 6, RCC 4

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW

April 11.........................at Gustavus JV, 2 p.m. April 14................vs. Western Tech, 2 p.m. April 18.............................at Rochester, 2 p.m. April 20..............vs. Central Lakes, 2 p.m. April 22.....................at Anoka-Ramsey, 1 p.m. April 24..................vs. Gustavus JV, 2 p.m. April 26............vs. Minnesota West, 2 p.m. May 2.........................at Western Tech, 2 p.m. May 6................vs. Anoka-Ramsey, 1 p.m. May 7................................at Luther JV, 2 p.m.

State Tournament Headquarters Baseball June 15-16 — Saints Field, Dick Siebert Field-University of Minnesota, Dick Putz Field-St. Cloud, Joe Faber Field-St. Cloud, Chaska Athletic Park, Mini Met-Jordan, CHS Field, Minnetonka High School, Target Field

Boys and Girls Track June 9-10 — Hamline University, St. Paul

Softball June 8-9 — Caswell Park-North Mankato.

Boys and Girls Golf June 13-14 —Pebble Creek, Sand Creek and Bunker Hills

Boys Tennis June 6-9 — Baseline Center and Reed Sweatt Center

April 7......................at Anoka-Ramsey, 3 p.m. April 8........................at St. Cloud Tech., noon April 14.................vs. Fergus Falls, 3 p.m. April 15....................vs. Ridgewater, noon April 21..............vs. St. Cloud Tech, 3 p.m. April 22...............vs. Anoka Ramsey, noon April 25............vs. Minnesota West, 3 p.m. April 28.........................at Fergus Falls, 3 p.m. April 29............................at Ridgewater, noon

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Gophers 9, UC Irvine 8 UC Irvine 7, Gophers 5 Gophers 13, Seattle University 4 Gophers 6, Seattle University 3 Gophers 11, Seattle University 7 North Dakota State 3, Gophers 1 Hawaii 11, Gophers 2 Gophers 4, Oral Roberts 3 Hawaii 4, Gophers 0 Gophers 6, Iowa 3 Gophers 7, South Dakota State 5 Gophers 5, Milwaukee 4 Gophers 5, Missouri State 2 Missouri State 7, Gophers 2 Missouri State 12, Gophers 3 California 7, Gophers 1 Sacramento State 3, Gophers 2 Gophers 9, Sacramento State 2 Gophers 5, Sacramento State 2 Gophers 5, Ohio State 2 Gophers 15, Ohio State 5 Gophers 6, Ohio State 5 Gophers 5, Kansas 2 Gophers 3, Michigan State 2 Gophers 4, Michigan State 3 Gophers 9, Michigan State 4 Gophers 7, North Dakota State 1 April 7....................vs. Rutgers, 3 p.m. April 8....................vs. Rutgers, 2 p.m. April 9....................vs. Rutgers, 1 p.m. April 11..at North Dakota State, 6:30 p.m. April 14.....................at Indiana, 5:30 p.m. April 15..........................at Indiana, 1 p.m. April 16............................at Indiana, noon April 18.vs. South Dakota State, 6 p.m. April 21...........vs. Nebraska, 6:30 p.m. April 22...............vs. Nebraska, 2 p.m. April 23...............vs. Nebraska, 1 p.m. April 25................................at NIU, 3 p.m. April 28..............vs. Illinois, 6:30 p.m. April 29...................vs. Illinois, 2 p.m. April 30...................vs. Illinois, 1 p.m. May 2.......vs. Georgia State, 6:30 p.m. May 3........vs. Georgia State, 6:30 p.m. May 5...................at Penn State, 5:30 p.m. May 6........................at Penn State, 1 p.m. May 7.........................at Penn State, noon May 12.vs. Long Beach State, 6:30 p.m. May 13.....vs. Long Beach State, 2 p.m. May 14.....vs. Long Beach State, 1 p.m. May 18...............vs. Purdue, 6:30 p.m. May 19................vs. Purdue, 6:30 p.m. May 20...................vs. Purdue, 1 p.m. May 24-28 Big Ten Tournament

BASEBALL

SOFTBALL

Gophers 3, Maryland 2 Gophers 5, Texas 2 Gophers 5, Colorado 1 Gophers 11, Texas 6 Gophers 10, Maryland 2 Gophers 4, Notre Dame 1 Gophers 3, Notre Dame 2 Gophers 11, North Carolina State 0 Gophers 7, North Carolina State 1 Gophers 10, UC Davis 1 Gophers 9, Fresno State 2 Gophers 5, UC Davis 4 Gophers 3, Cal Poly 1 Gophers 12, Idaho State 2 Gophers 2, Troy 0 Gophers 4, Florida Atlantic 1 Gophers 3, LSU 0 Gophers 7, Illinois State 3 Gophers 7, Seattle University 0 Washington 3, Gophers 2 Gophers 14, Seattle University 6 Gophers 8, South Dakota 0 Washington 9, Gophers 0 Gophers 6, Oregon State 0 Gophers 10, California 0 Gophers 10, Pacific 0 Gophers 12, Pacific 1 Gophers 16, Nebraska 0 Gophers 5, Nebraska 4 Gophers 8, Nebraska 1 Gophers 12, Illinois 0 Illinois 4, Gophers 3 Gophers 4, Illinois 0 Gophers 8, South Dakota 0 Gophers 12, South Dakota 0 April 7.....................vs. Indiana, 6 p.m. April 8.....................vs. Indiana, 1 p.m. April 9......................vs. Indiana, noon April 14...........vs Northwestern, 6 p.m. April 15...........vs Northwestern, 1 p.m. April 16............vs Northwestern, noon April 19........at Wisconsin, 3 and 5:30 p.m. April 21........................vs Iowa, 6 p.m. April 22........................vs Iowa, 1 p.m. April 23.........................vs Iowa, Noon April 26...vs. N. Dakota St., 4 and 6 p.m. April 28...................vs. Purdue, 6 p.m. April 29.....................vs. Purdue, noon April 30.....................vs. Purdue, noon May 5.........................at Penn State, 5 p.m. May 6.........................at Penn State, 2 p.m. May 7..........................at Penn State, noon May 11-13..................Big Ten Tournament

U n i v e r s i t y o f m i n n e s o t a

The 2016-17 Austin Bruins Austin’s Will Reedy tangles with Bismarck’s Parker Mismash along the boards during the second period at Riverside Arena early in the season. MIDDLE: Austin’s John Richards avoids a check as he chases the puck against Minot. BELOW: Austin’s Jan Stefka angles toward the net against Coulee Region during Paint the Rink Pink. Herald file photos

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW