Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren said the conference will take a “decentralized” approach to COVID-19 protocols by allowing each school to put in place its own plan. 

Warren also said there has been no determination on whether games would be forfeited — as has been suggested by the Southeastern Conference and Big 12 —- if teams cannot play because of COVID-19 issues this season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605400788485.jpeg" alt="FB Penn State Huskers NU Communocations" />
 <figcaption>FB Penn State Huskers NU Communocations</figcaption>
 </figure>Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren said the conference will take a “decentralized” approach to COVID-19 protocols by allowing each school to put in place its own plan. Warren also said there has been no determination on whether games would be forfeited — as has been suggested by the Southeastern Conference and Big 12 —- if teams cannot play because of COVID-19 issues this season.

Big Ten says schools will decide on COVID-19 protocols

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FNBO Nationals state tournament bracket

By: Ralph Russo - Associated Press

The last time Texas got a wandering eye for another conference it fueled a series of realignments in college sports that nearly killed the Big 12.

Texas is once again exploring free agency, stealing the headlines at the Southeastern Conference media days and cranking up speculation about another round of conference shuffling. And the Longhorns aren’t alone in looking around.

There have been discussions between Texas and Oklahoma and SEC officials about switching conferences, but no formal invitations have been extended, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press on Wednesday night.

The person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the talks were intended to be confidential, said officials from Texas initiated the discussion. The Houston Chronicle first reported the discussions.

Adding two members would give the powerhouse SEC 16 teams, the most in major college football. Losing two schools would be a devastating blow to the 10-member Big 12.

Questions about the report were greeted by a series of no comments from the primary parties involved, but no denials.

“I’m talking about the 2021 season,” SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said at SEC football media days.

Texas A&amp;M athletic director Ross Bjork was adamant about not wanting the Longhorns, once the school’s greatest rival, in the SEC.

“We want to be the only SEC program in the state of Texas,” Bjork told reporters. “There’s a reason why Texas A&amp;M left the Big 12, to be standalone, to have our own identity. And that’s our feeling.”

SEC bylaws require at least three-fourths (11) of the members to vote in favor of extending an invitation to join.

“The college athletics landscape is shifting constantly,” Oklahoma said in a statement. “We don’t address every anonymous rumor.”

A Texas statement offered a similar response: “Speculation always swirls around collegiate athletics. We will not address rumors or speculation.”

Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby did not return messages from AP seeking comment. Just last week at Big 12 media days in Arlington, Texas, he talked about how conference realignment was no longer a top concern for the Big 12.

“Not to say it couldn’t happen, but it’s not one of the things that keeps me up at night,” he said.

Any move to leave the Big 12 would be complicated by an agreement its schools made after the last round of realignment to hand their media rights over to the league through their current television deals. The grant of rights lines up with the Big 12′s contracts with Fox and ESPN and runs through the 2024-25 school year.

Back in 2010, the then Pac-10 tried to woo Texas and five other Big 12 schools into the West Coast-based conference to form a Pac-16.

Texas stayed put and instead started its own television network. After another flirtation between Texas, Oklahoma and then-Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott, Texas A&amp;M bolted for the SEC in 2012 and Missouri followed.

The Big 12, which had already lost Nebraska to the Big Ten and Colorado to the Pac-12, managed to hang on by inviting TCU and West Virginia.

College sports was turned upside down for about three years as conferences jockeyed to fortify themselves and schools scrambled to not be left out. The Big East was poached right out of the major college football business before finally reconstituting as the American Athletic Conference.

Life without Texas and Oklahoma would be uncertain — at best — for the other schools in the Big 12.

Even an unconfirmed report, prompted an assertive response from Oklahoma State.

“If true, we would be gravely disappointed,” the Cowboys’ statement said. “While we place a premium on history, loyalty and trust, be assured, we will aggressively defend and advance what is best for Oklahoma State and our strong athletic program, which continues to excel in the Big 12 and nationally.”

The mere possibility of adding Texas and Oklahoma to the strongest football conference in the country is certain to draw the attention of the other Power Five conferences. Especially as the leaders of those leagues look to expand the College Football Playoff from four to 12 teams.

Oklahoma is the only Big 12 team to make the playoff, doing so four times. The road to the CFP would be tougher through the SEC but a bigger field could provide more paths.

The SEC recently signed a new television deal with ESPN that gives the cable TV sports giant all of its rights. It is unclear if adding Texas and Oklahoma would create an opportunity for the SEC to increase the value of those contracts for all its members and not just provide enough to cover additions at the current rate.

The SEC announced earlier this year it had distributed about $45.5 million each to its members. The Big 12 schools received about $10 million less from its conference.

When Texas A&amp;M coach Jimbo Fisher was asked about Texas and Oklahoma being interested in the SEC during his session with the media in Hoover, he said: “I bet they would.””

“Listen, we’ve got the greatest league in ball,” Fisher said. “That’s the choices they make or what they do, I don’t know, but I don’t know how I feel about it.”

By: Ralph Russo - Associated PressThe last time Texas got a wandering eye for another conference it fueled a series of realignments in college sports that nearly killed the Big 12.Texas is once again exploring free agency, stealing the headlines at the Southeastern Conference media days and cranking up speculation about another round of conference shuffling. And the Longhorns aren’t alone in looking around.There have been discussions between Texas and Oklahoma and SEC officials about switching conferences, but no formal invitations have been extended, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press on Wednesday night.The person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the talks were intended to be confidential, said officials from Texas initiated the discussion. The Houston Chronicle first reported the discussions.Adding two members would give the powerhouse SEC 16 teams, the most in major college football. Losing two schools would be a devastating blow to the 10-member Big 12.Questions about the report were greeted by a series of no comments from the primary parties involved, but no denials.“I’m talking about the 2021 season,” SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said at SEC football media days.Texas A&amp;M athletic director Ross Bjork was adamant about not wanting the Longhorns, once the school’s greatest rival, in the SEC.“We want to be the only SEC program in the state of Texas,” Bjork told reporters. “There’s a reason why Texas A&amp;M left the Big 12, to be standalone, to have our own identity. And that’s our feeling.”SEC bylaws require at least three-fourths (11) of the members to vote in favor of extending an invitation to join.“The college athletics landscape is shifting constantly,” Oklahoma said in a statement. “We don’t address every anonymous rumor.”A Texas statement offered a similar response: “Speculation always swirls around collegiate athletics. We will not address rumors or speculation.”Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby did not return messages from AP seeking comment. Just last week at Big 12 media days in Arlington, Texas, he talked about how conference realignment was no longer a top concern for the Big 12.“Not to say it couldn’t happen, but it’s not one of the things that keeps me up at night,” he said.Any move to leave the Big 12 would be complicated by an agreement its schools made after the last round of realignment to hand their media rights over to the league through their current television deals. The grant of rights lines up with the Big 12′s contracts with Fox and ESPN and runs through the 2024-25 school year.Back in 2010, the then Pac-10 tried to woo Texas and five other Big 12 schools into the West Coast-based conference to form a Pac-16.Texas stayed put and instead started its own television network. After another flirtation between Texas, Oklahoma and then-Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott, Texas A&amp;M bolted for the SEC in 2012 and Missouri followed.The Big 12, which had already lost Nebraska to the Big Ten and Colorado to the Pac-12, managed to hang on by inviting TCU and West Virginia.College sports was turned upside down for about three years as conferences jockeyed to fortify themselves and schools scrambled to not be left out. The Big East was poached right out of the major college football business before finally reconstituting as the American Athletic Conference.Life without Texas and Oklahoma would be uncertain — at best — for the other schools in the Big 12.Even an unconfirmed report, prompted an assertive response from Oklahoma State.“If true, we would be gravely disappointed,” the Cowboys’ statement said. “While we place a premium on history, loyalty and trust, be assured, we will aggressively defend and advance what is best for Oklahoma State and our strong athletic program, which continues to excel in the Big 12 and nationally.”The mere possibility of adding Texas and Oklahoma to the strongest football conference in the country is certain to draw the attention of the other Power Five conferences. Especially as the leaders of those leagues look to expand the College Football Playoff from four to 12 teams.Oklahoma is the only Big 12 team to make the playoff, doing so four times. The road to the CFP would be tougher through the SEC but a bigger field could provide more paths.The SEC recently signed a new television deal with ESPN that gives the cable TV sports giant all of its rights. It is unclear if adding Texas and Oklahoma would create an opportunity for the SEC to increase the value of those contracts for all its members and not just provide enough to cover additions at the current rate.The SEC announced earlier this year it had distributed about $45.5 million each to its members. The Big 12 schools received about $10 million less from its conference.When Texas A&amp;M coach Jimbo Fisher was asked about Texas and Oklahoma being interested in the SEC during his session with the media in Hoover, he said: “I bet they would.””“Listen, we’ve got the greatest league in ball,” Fisher said. “That’s the choices they make or what they do, I don’t know, but I don’t know how I feel about it.”

AP source: Texas, Oklahoma talk to SEC about joining league

Post Podcast: Chatting with NPHS AD Jordan Cudney

This week the North Platte Football coaches put on four day camps for youth and middle school aged kids.&nbsp; They got a better turnout then expected with 60 kids signing up for each session.&nbsp;

"Its been a great week with a lot of good kids. Its good to teach them what being a Bulldog is all about. We are looking forward to seeing these kids when they get to high school." said Coach Rice of the camps.&nbsp;

The camps also gave some of the High School players a taste of what its like to coach and impart some lessons to the younger generation.&nbsp;

The camps run through Thursday the 22nd.&nbsp; Practice for the Fall Football season starts on Aug. 9th

This week the North Platte Football coaches put on four day camps for youth and middle school aged kids.&nbsp; They got a better turnout then expected with 60 kids signing up for each session.&nbsp;"Its been a great week with a lot of good kids. Its good to teach them what being a Bulldog is all about. We are looking forward to seeing these kids when they get to high school." said Coach Rice of the camps.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626885524152.jpeg" alt="NPHS FB Camp 1.jpg" />
 <figcaption>NPHS FB Camp 1.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>The camps also gave some of the High School players a taste of what its like to coach and impart some lessons to the younger generation.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626885580994.jpeg" alt="NPHS Camp 3.jpg" />
 <figcaption>NPHS Camp 3.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>The camps run through Thursday the 22nd.&nbsp; Practice for the Fall Football season starts on Aug. 9th

NPHS Football camps a rousing success

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Post Podcast: Chatting with local boxers about the Buffalo Bill Brawl

Six standout players from Nebraska's 1971 national championship team form the 2021 Nebraska Football Hall of Fame Class announced on Tuesday. 

The 2021 inductees were chosen by the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame, which is sponsored by the Nebraska Chapter of the National Football Foundation and the College Football Hall of Fame. The 2021 Hall of Fame class will be officially inducted at a Sept. 10 banquet in Lincoln, and also recognized the following day at the Huskers' home game against Buffalo.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Nebraska Football Hall of Fame Class will also be recognized at this year's banquet.

The six 1971 players selected to the 2021 class by acclimation of the Board of Directors include defensive end John Adkins, center Doug Dumler, defensive tackle Bill Janssen, tight end Jerry List, monster back Dave Mason and offensive guard Keith Wortman. The 1971 Cornhuskers captured Nebraska's second straight national title with a perfect 13-0 record. Along the way, Nebraska defeated No. 2 Oklahoma, 35-31, in the Game of the Century and capped its championship run with a 38-6 dismantling of second-ranked Alabama in the Orange Bowl.

In addition, the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame will present the Clarence E. Swanson Meritorious Service Award to the late Duane and Phyllis Acklie family and the Lyell Bremser Special Merit Award to Jim and Suzanne Pillen. The recipients of those awards were chosen in the spring of 2020, but will be recognized as part of this year's Hall of Fame activities.

Prior to 2015, players must have been either an All-American or first-team all-conference selection to make the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame ballot. Beginning in 2015, Huskers who earned second-team all-conference honors dating back to the expansion of the Big Eight to the Big 12 (1996) and now the 14-team Big Ten, are eligible. Players are not eligible for the ballot until after a 10-year waiting period from the end of their collegiate careers. Major national award winners earn automatic induction. Active NFL players are not on the ballot.  

The 2020 Nebraska Football Hall of Fame Class announced last December will also be honored. That group includes running back Doug DuBose, defensive end Ray Phillips, and four members of the 1970 national championship team. The 1970 group includes assistant coach Carl Selmer, quarterback Van Brownson, fullback Dan Schneiss and offensive tackle Wally Winter. The final member of the 2020 class was Chris Bober, a Division II All-American at UNO.

2021 Nebraska Football Hall of Fame Inductees

John Adkins, Defensive End, 1968-71—A three-year letterwinner as a defensive end, Adkins earned honorable-mention All-Big Eight honors in 1971. He made 41 tackles and had 10 tackles for loss in his senior season. A native of Lynchburg, Va., Adkins was an Academic All-American in 1970.

Doug Dumler, Center, 1970-72—Dumler was a three-year starter at center for the Huskers, anchoring a powerful offensive line. Dumler earned second-team All-Big Eight honors, as well as Academic All-Big Eight recognition, and went on to play five seasons in the NFL with the Patriots and the Vikings.

Bill Janssen, Defensive Tackle, 1969-72—Janssen was a versatile performer and member of two national championship teams. Janssen played defensive end, offensive guard, center and defensive tackle during his career. He was a second-team All-Big Eight pick as a senior when he made 48 tackles and eight TFL. He was also an Academic All-Big Eight selection.

Jerry List, Tight End, 1970-72—List was one of the Big Eight's top tight ends for three straight years, earning honorable-mention all-conference recognition. List finished his career with 67 receptions, topping 20 catches each season from 1970 to 1972. List passed away in 1993.

Dave Mason, Monster, 1969-72—Mason was a standout defensive back for the Huskers from 1969 to 1972, earning second-team All-Big Eight honors as a senior in 1972. Mason made his mark on the 1971 national title run, returning three interceptions for touchdowns. He was also a two-time Academic All-Big Eight selection.

Keith Wortman, Offensive Guard, 1970-71—Wortman was a standout offensive lineman on Nebraska's back-to-back national championship teams. The Whittier, Calif., native earned honorable-mention All-Big Eight honors in 1971, when NU averaged better than 39 points per game. Wortman went on to play 10 seasons in the NFL with the Packers and Cardinals.

By NU Athletic CommunicationsSix standout players from Nebraska's 1971 national championship team form the 2021 Nebraska Football Hall of Fame Class announced on Tuesday. The 2021 inductees were chosen by the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame, which is sponsored by the Nebraska Chapter of the National Football Foundation and the College Football Hall of Fame. The 2021 Hall of Fame class will be officially inducted at a Sept. 10 banquet in Lincoln, and also recognized the following day at the Huskers' home game against Buffalo.Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Nebraska Football Hall of Fame Class will also be recognized at this year's banquet.The six 1971 players selected to the 2021 class by acclimation of the Board of Directors include defensive end John Adkins, center Doug Dumler, defensive tackle Bill Janssen, tight end Jerry List, monster back Dave Mason and offensive guard Keith Wortman. The 1971 Cornhuskers captured Nebraska's second straight national title with a perfect 13-0 record. Along the way, Nebraska defeated No. 2 Oklahoma, 35-31, in the Game of the Century and capped its championship run with a 38-6 dismantling of second-ranked Alabama in the Orange Bowl.In addition, the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame will present the Clarence E. Swanson Meritorious Service Award to the late Duane and Phyllis Acklie family and the Lyell Bremser Special Merit Award to Jim and Suzanne Pillen. The recipients of those awards were chosen in the spring of 2020, but will be recognized as part of this year's Hall of Fame activities.Prior to 2015, players must have been either an All-American or first-team all-conference selection to make the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame ballot. Beginning in 2015, Huskers who earned second-team all-conference honors dating back to the expansion of the Big Eight to the Big 12 (1996) and now the 14-team Big Ten, are eligible. Players are not eligible for the ballot until after a 10-year waiting period from the end of their collegiate careers. Major national award winners earn automatic induction. Active NFL players are not on the ballot. The 2020 Nebraska Football Hall of Fame Class announced last December will also be honored. That group includes running back Doug DuBose, defensive end Ray Phillips, and four members of the 1970 national championship team. The 1970 group includes assistant coach Carl Selmer, quarterback Van Brownson, fullback Dan Schneiss and offensive tackle Wally Winter. The final member of the 2020 class was Chris Bober, a Division II All-American at UNO.2021 Nebraska Football Hall of Fame InducteesJohn Adkins, Defensive End, 1968-71—A three-year letterwinner as a defensive end, Adkins earned honorable-mention All-Big Eight honors in 1971. He made 41 tackles and had 10 tackles for loss in his senior season. A native of Lynchburg, Va., Adkins was an Academic All-American in 1970.Doug Dumler, Center, 1970-72—Dumler was a three-year starter at center for the Huskers, anchoring a powerful offensive line. Dumler earned second-team All-Big Eight honors, as well as Academic All-Big Eight recognition, and went on to play five seasons in the NFL with the Patriots and the Vikings.Bill Janssen, Defensive Tackle, 1969-72—Janssen was a versatile performer and member of two national championship teams. Janssen played defensive end, offensive guard, center and defensive tackle during his career. He was a second-team All-Big Eight pick as a senior when he made 48 tackles and eight TFL. He was also an Academic All-Big Eight selection.Jerry List, Tight End, 1970-72—List was one of the Big Eight's top tight ends for three straight years, earning honorable-mention all-conference recognition. List finished his career with 67 receptions, topping 20 catches each season from 1970 to 1972. List passed away in 1993.Dave Mason, Monster, 1969-72—Mason was a standout defensive back for the Huskers from 1969 to 1972, earning second-team All-Big Eight honors as a senior in 1972. Mason made his mark on the 1971 national title run, returning three interceptions for touchdowns. He was also a two-time Academic All-Big Eight selection.Keith Wortman, Offensive Guard, 1970-71—Wortman was a standout offensive lineman on Nebraska's back-to-back national championship teams. The Whittier, Calif., native earned honorable-mention All-Big Eight honors in 1971, when NU averaged better than 39 points per game. Wortman went on to play 10 seasons in the NFL with the Packers and Cardinals.

Six 1971 Greats Comprise 2021 Nebraska Football Hall of Fame Class

TOKYO (AP) — Sweden didn’t have to bunker down on defense against the Americans this time.

Stina Blackstenius scored a pair of goals and the Swedes stunned the United States at the Olympics with a 3-0 victory Wednesday in the women’s soccer tournament.

The Americans, ranked No. 1 in the world and the favorites to win gold in Tokyo, were riding a 44-match unbeaten streak heading into the match. But Sweden, ranked No. 5, has been the U.S. team’s nemesis of sorts in recent years. The Swedes bounced the Americans from the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games in the quarterfinals, the earliest U.S. Olympic exit ever, by making a defensive stand.

This April, Sweden played the United States to a 1-1 draw in Stockholm, which snapped a winning streak dating back to January 2019 when the Americans lost to France in the run-up to the World Cup. It was the U.S. team’s only draw this year.

“Did we expect this result tonight? No,” said U.S. forward Megan Rapinoe, who did not start but came on as a substitute in the 64th minute with the score 2-0. “It’s frustrating, and it’s frustrating that it’s Sweden. They found a lot of space on us. I don’t even know how many goals we have given up this whole year. I don’t remember the last time we gave up a goal. So to give up three is not great.”

Sweden’s offense deserved all the credit. Blackstenius’ header into the far corner off a cross from Sofia Jakobsson in the 26th minute gave the team a first-half lead.

The United States, which came out stale, had its best chance of the opening half in the final moments when Rose Lavelle’s shot hit the post. Coach Vlatko Andonovski made changes for the second half, subbing in Carli Lloyd for Alex Morgan and Julie Ertz for Sam Mewis.

But Blackstenius scored again in the 54th minute, beating goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, as the Americans continued to struggle. Lina Hurtig added the final goal in the 72nd.

Sweden goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl acknowledged the win over the favorites was encouraging, but it’s still just the beginning of the tournament. Ahead are group games against Australia and New Zealand.

“I know for a fact that you can go very far in a tournament even if you lose to the USA or whoever you play in the first game,” Lindahl said. “So in the end I don’t know how much it means, but for sure we showed the world and ourselves that we can play well against a team like the U.S. or any team.”

The loss was the first for the United States under Andonovski, who took over when former coach Jill Ellis stepped down following the team’s World Cup victory in France. Late in the match, Andonovski sat expressionless on the bench.

The Swedes were without Magda Eriksson because of injury. The team said she has been training, but because of the compact schedule of the tournament she was held out of the opener.

Tokyo is Sweden’s seventh Olympics. After getting eliminated by Sweden on penalties in the quarterfinals five years ago, U.S. goalkeeper Hope Solo famously called the Swedes cowards for their defensive tactics.

Sweden went on to win the silver medal, losing to Germany 2-1 in the final.

The United States has been to all seven Olympics that have included women’s soccer, too, winning four Olympic gold medals, more than any other nation. The team is vying to become the first to win Olympic gold following a World Cup title.

In 2008, the United States also lost its first match, 2-0 to Norway, but went on to win the gold medal.

“I think ultimately as an athlete you go through ups and downs, and this is a hard result but it’s the nature of a tough tournament,” U.S. forward Christen Press said. “It wasn’t going to be easy. We weren’t going to breeze through six games no matter what. So here we are.”

It was just the sixth time that the United States had lost by three or more goals.

Sweden now leads Group G heading into Saturday’s game against Australia in Saitama, while the United States faces New Zealand at the same stadium. The top two teams in the group advance to the knockout round.

“It is what it is,” Rapinoe said. “We got bopped, and we have two more games coming quick and fast. And now we know exactly what we need to do. We need to win these games and eventually get out of the group and go from there.”

TOKYO (AP) — Sweden didn’t have to bunker down on defense against the Americans this time.Stina Blackstenius scored a pair of goals and the Swedes stunned the United States at the Olympics with a 3-0 victory Wednesday in the women’s soccer tournament.The Americans, ranked No. 1 in the world and the favorites to win gold in Tokyo, were riding a 44-match unbeaten streak heading into the match. But Sweden, ranked No. 5, has been the U.S. team’s nemesis of sorts in recent years. The Swedes bounced the Americans from the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games in the quarterfinals, the earliest U.S. Olympic exit ever, by making a defensive stand.This April, Sweden played the United States to a 1-1 draw in Stockholm, which snapped a winning streak dating back to January 2019 when the Americans lost to France in the run-up to the World Cup. It was the U.S. team’s only draw this year.“Did we expect this result tonight? No,” said U.S. forward Megan Rapinoe, who did not start but came on as a substitute in the 64th minute with the score 2-0. “It’s frustrating, and it’s frustrating that it’s Sweden. They found a lot of space on us. I don’t even know how many goals we have given up this whole year. I don’t remember the last time we gave up a goal. So to give up three is not great.”Sweden’s offense deserved all the credit. Blackstenius’ header into the far corner off a cross from Sofia Jakobsson in the 26th minute gave the team a first-half lead.The United States, which came out stale, had its best chance of the opening half in the final moments when Rose Lavelle’s shot hit the post. Coach Vlatko Andonovski made changes for the second half, subbing in Carli Lloyd for Alex Morgan and Julie Ertz for Sam Mewis.But Blackstenius scored again in the 54th minute, beating goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, as the Americans continued to struggle. Lina Hurtig added the final goal in the 72nd.Sweden goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl acknowledged the win over the favorites was encouraging, but it’s still just the beginning of the tournament. Ahead are group games against Australia and New Zealand.“I know for a fact that you can go very far in a tournament even if you lose to the USA or whoever you play in the first game,” Lindahl said. “So in the end I don’t know how much it means, but for sure we showed the world and ourselves that we can play well against a team like the U.S. or any team.”The loss was the first for the United States under Andonovski, who took over when former coach Jill Ellis stepped down following the team’s World Cup victory in France. Late in the match, Andonovski sat expressionless on the bench.The Swedes were without Magda Eriksson because of injury. The team said she has been training, but because of the compact schedule of the tournament she was held out of the opener.Tokyo is Sweden’s seventh Olympics. After getting eliminated by Sweden on penalties in the quarterfinals five years ago, U.S. goalkeeper Hope Solo famously called the Swedes cowards for their defensive tactics.Sweden went on to win the silver medal, losing to Germany 2-1 in the final.The United States has been to all seven Olympics that have included women’s soccer, too, winning four Olympic gold medals, more than any other nation. The team is vying to become the first to win Olympic gold following a World Cup title.In 2008, the United States also lost its first match, 2-0 to Norway, but went on to win the gold medal.“I think ultimately as an athlete you go through ups and downs, and this is a hard result but it’s the nature of a tough tournament,” U.S. forward Christen Press said. “It wasn’t going to be easy. We weren’t going to breeze through six games no matter what. So here we are.”It was just the sixth time that the United States had lost by three or more goals.Sweden now leads Group G heading into Saturday’s game against Australia in Saitama, while the United States faces New Zealand at the same stadium. The top two teams in the group advance to the knockout round.“It is what it is,” Rapinoe said. “We got bopped, and we have two more games coming quick and fast. And now we know exactly what we need to do. We need to win these games and eventually get out of the group and go from there.”

Sweden stuns US 3-0 in women’s soccer at Olympics

Timely hitting is so important in the game of baseball. The FNBO Nationals of North Platte used some of that timely hitting in the bottom of the sixth inning to break a tie that would propel them to a win and an invite to the state tournament.&nbsp; Now they look forward to a Hastings team that they feel is beatable. The same Hastings team that needed late inning heroics to beat North Platte in the first round of the tournament.&nbsp; If the FNBO Nationals want to add a District Championship to their already impressive season they would need to beat Hastings twice. This season the FNBO Nationals are 1-2 against Hastings with the win coming in early June at Bill Wood Field.&nbsp; The championship games start at 5pm with a second game to immediately follow if needed.&nbsp;

The state tournament starts on July 24th.&nbsp;

Timely hitting is so important in the game of baseball. The FNBO Nationals of North Platte used some of that timely hitting in the bottom of the sixth inning to break a tie that would propel them to a win and an invite to the state tournament.&nbsp; Now they look forward to a Hastings team that they feel is beatable. The same Hastings team that needed late inning heroics to beat North Platte in the first round of the tournament.&nbsp; If the FNBO Nationals want to add a District Championship to their already impressive season they would need to beat Hastings twice. This season the FNBO Nationals are 1-2 against Hastings with the win coming in early June at Bill Wood Field.&nbsp; The championship games start at 5pm with a second game to immediately follow if needed.&nbsp;The state tournament starts on July 24th.&nbsp;

FNBO Nationals headed to state; looking to win district

The University of Nebraska will have seven athletes representing four countries at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The group includes a pair of current Nebraska student-athletes as well as five former Huskers. Four Huskers will represent the United States in Tokyo. Jordan Larson, Kelsey Robinson and Justine Wong-Orantes make up one-quarter of the USA women's volleyball team, while former Husker runner Amber (Parkinson) Neben is a member of the road cycling team. Four-time All-American Sarah Pavan will compete in beach volleyball for her home country of Canada. Beatriz Padron, an incoming freshman, will swim in the 200-meter freestyle for Costa Rica, the country's lone female swimmer in Tokyo. Keisei Tominaga, an incoming sophomore guard for the Nebraska men's basketball team, will represent the host country Japan in 3-on-3 basketball. Neben, Larson, Pavan and Robinson are all repeat Olympians, while Padron, Tominaga and Wong-Orantes are first-time Olympians. Neben and Larson are both competing in their third Olympics, while Pavan and Robinson are making their second Olympic appearances. Additionally, former Husker Taylor Edwards was named an alternate for the United States softball team while incoming freshman gymnast Emma Spence was an alternate for Team Canada. Several Huskers have strong shots at earning medals in Tokyo. The United States women's volleyball team won its third straight FIVB Volleyball Nations League title last month and is the No. 1-ranked team in the world. The Americans have medaled in each of the past three Olympics but have never won a gold medal in women's volleyball. On the beach, Pavan and her teammate Melissa Humana-Paredes were the 2019 world champions and are No. 1 in the FIVB Olympic Ranking for women's beach volleyball. The Huskers' Olympic schedule begins with women's beach volleyball on July 23. Team USA volleyball begins play on July 24, the same day that the 3-on-3 men's basketball competition begins and the women's road cycling race is held. The heats of the women's 200-meter freestyle swim are on Monday, July 26. Fans can follow the progress of the Huskers in Tokyo by visiting huskers.com/olympics. Huskers at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics United States Jordan Larson (Women's Volleyball, July 24-Aug. 8) Kelsey Robinson (Women's Volleyball, July 24-Aug. 8) Justine Wong-Orantes (Women's Volleyball, July 24-Aug. 8) Amber (Parkinson) Neben (Women's Road Cycling, July 24) Canada Sarah Pavan (Women's Beach Volleyball, July 23-Aug. 6) Costa Rica Beatriz Padron (Women's Swimming: 200-Meter Freestyle, July 26-28) Japan Keisei Tominaga (3x3 Men's Basketball, July 24-28) Dates above reflect U.S. Central Time Noting Nebraska's 2020 Tokyo Olympians

By NU Athletic Communications

The University of Nebraska will have seven athletes representing four countries at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The group includes a pair of current Nebraska student-athletes as well as five former Huskers. Four Huskers will represent the United States in Tokyo. Jordan Larson, Kelsey Robinson and Justine Wong-Orantes make up one-quarter of the USA women's volleyball team, while former Husker runner Amber (Parkinson) Neben is a member of the road cycling team. Four-time All-American Sarah Pavan will compete in beach volleyball for her home country of Canada. Beatriz Padron, an incoming freshman, will swim in the 200-meter freestyle for Costa Rica, the country's lone female swimmer in Tokyo. Keisei Tominaga, an incoming sophomore guard for the Nebraska men's basketball team, will represent the host country Japan in 3-on-3 basketball. Neben, Larson, Pavan and Robinson are all repeat Olympians, while Padron, Tominaga and Wong-Orantes are first-time Olympians. Neben and Larson are both competing in their third Olympics, while Pavan and Robinson are making their second Olympic appearances. Additionally, former Husker Taylor Edwards was named an alternate for the United States softball team while incoming freshman gymnast Emma Spence was an alternate for Team Canada. Several Huskers have strong shots at earning medals in Tokyo. The United States women's volleyball team won its third straight FIVB Volleyball Nations League title last month and is the No. 1-ranked team in the world. The Americans have medaled in each of the past three Olympics but have never won a gold medal in women's volleyball. On the beach, Pavan and her teammate Melissa Humana-Paredes were the 2019 world champions and are No. 1 in the FIVB Olympic Ranking for women's beach volleyball. The Huskers' Olympic schedule begins with women's beach volleyball on July 23. Team USA volleyball begins play on July 24, the same day that the 3-on-3 men's basketball competition begins and the women's road cycling race is held. The heats of the women's 200-meter freestyle swim are on Monday, July 26. Fans can follow the progress of the Huskers in Tokyo by visiting huskers.com/olympics. Huskers at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics United States Jordan Larson (Women's Volleyball, July 24-Aug. 8) Kelsey Robinson (Women's Volleyball, July 24-Aug. 8) Justine Wong-Orantes (Women's Volleyball, July 24-Aug. 8) Amber (Parkinson) Neben (Women's Road Cycling, July 24) Canada Sarah Pavan (Women's Beach Volleyball, July 23-Aug. 6) Costa Rica Beatriz Padron (Women's Swimming: 200-Meter Freestyle, July 26-28) Japan Keisei Tominaga (3x3 Men's Basketball, July 24-28) Dates above reflect U.S. Central Time Noting Nebraska's 2020 Tokyo Olympians<ul>
 <li>The 2020 Tokyo Olympics mark the 10th consecutive Summer Olympics with at least seven Husker Olympians.</li><li>At 46 years old,&nbsp;Amber Neben&nbsp;is the oldest Husker to ever compete in the Olympics.</li><li>At 18 years old,&nbsp;Beatriz Padron&nbsp;is the fifth-youngest Husker to compete in the Olympics and the youngest since Helene Muller swam for South Africa in the 1996 Olympics.</li><li>Jordan Larson&nbsp;and&nbsp;Kelsey Robinson&nbsp;are the only Huskers competing in Tokyo who have previously won an Olympic medal. Larson and Robinson were both on the Team USA volleyball team that won a&nbsp;Bronze Medal in 2016, while Larson was on the 2012 U.S. Olympic team that won a Silver Medal.</li><li>Along with teammate Foluke Akinradewo Gunderson,&nbsp;Jordan Larson&nbsp;is looking to become the first United States female indoor volleyball player to be a three-time Olympic medalist.</li><li>Jordan Larson&nbsp;is also looking to become just the sixth Husker to be a three-time Olympic medalist, while her teammate&nbsp;Kelsey Robinson&nbsp;is seeking to become the ninth Husker to be a two-time medalist.</li><li>Beatriz Padron&nbsp;and&nbsp;Keisei Tominaga&nbsp;are the first Huskers to participate in the Olympics while still enrolled at Nebraska since&nbsp;Robin Mackin pitched for Canada in the 2008 Olympics prior to her junior season.</li><li>Beatriz Padron&nbsp;is the first Husker to compete for Costa Rica in the Olympics, while&nbsp;Keisei Tominaga&nbsp;is the first Husker to represent Japan at the Olympics. Huskers have now represented a total of 32 countries at the Olympics.</li>
 </ul> Noting Nebraska's Olympic History<ul>
 <li>A total of 110 Huskers have been Olympians (not including three alternates), combining for spots in a total of 164 Olympic Games, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. At the Summer Olympics, 108 Huskers have combined for 161 appearances.</li><li>Huskers have combined to win 50 Olympic medals, including 12 Gold Medals, 13 Silver Medals and 25 Bronze Medals. At the Summer Olympics, Huskers have won 47&nbsp;medals, including 11 Gold Medals, 11 Silver Medals and 25 Bronze Medals.</li><li>At least one Husker has competed in 17 consecutive Summer Olympics, dating back to 1956.</li><li>At least one Husker has won a medal in 11 consecutive Summer Olympics, dating back to 1976.</li>
 </ul>

Seven Huskers Set to Compete in Tokyo

The NCAA spent nearly $68 million on legal services during the 2019-20 fiscal year even as it lost hundreds of millions in revenue in the pandemic, according to tax documents released Monday.

Revenue was down more than 50% over the previous year, from more than $1.1 billion to just over $520 million, mostly because the lucrative college basketball tournaments were canceled as the coronavirus hit the U.S. hard early in 2020.

The media rights loss for the men’s tourney alone was $702 million, the NCAA said. Championship revenue was down $162 million due to the cancellation of winter and spring title events, though the NCAA said the blow was offset to some extent since expenses for those dropped by $119 million.

Saying it “continues to defend its mission and core values,” the NCAA also listed its legal expenses for 2019-20 at $67.7 million, more than double the $33 million the previous year “due to an accrual of $34.8 million related to the Alston case.”

Last month, the Supreme Court ruled against the NCAA in that case, upholding a lower court’s ruling in an antitrust case. The 9-0 decision means the NCAA cannot cap compensation schools provide to athletes for educational benefits.

The 990 tax form, which the NCAA is required to file as a tax exempt organization, also showed President Mark Emmert’s compensation for the fiscal year at over $2.8 million.

The NCAA spent nearly $68 million on legal services during the 2019-20 fiscal year even as it lost hundreds of millions in revenue in the pandemic, according to tax documents released Monday.Revenue was down more than 50% over the previous year, from more than $1.1 billion to just over $520 million, mostly because the lucrative college basketball tournaments were canceled as the coronavirus hit the U.S. hard early in 2020.The media rights loss for the men’s tourney alone was $702 million, the NCAA said. Championship revenue was down $162 million due to the cancellation of winter and spring title events, though the NCAA said the blow was offset to some extent since expenses for those dropped by $119 million.Saying it “continues to defend its mission and core values,” the NCAA also listed its legal expenses for 2019-20 at $67.7 million, more than double the $33 million the previous year “due to an accrual of $34.8 million related to the Alston case.”Last month, the Supreme Court ruled against the NCAA in that case, upholding a lower court’s ruling in an antitrust case. The 9-0 decision means the NCAA cannot cap compensation schools provide to athletes for educational benefits.The 990 tax form, which the NCAA is required to file as a tax exempt organization, also showed President Mark Emmert’s compensation for the fiscal year at over $2.8 million.Associated Press

NCAA hit hard by pandemic, spent $68 million on legal fees

Story by Rob Anderson - Creighton Athletics

OMAHA, Neb. -- After 50 years in education, including the last 41 at Creighton University, McCormick Endowed Director of Athletics Bruce Rasmussen has announced that he will be retiring, with his last day on August 16, 2021. Hired as Director of Athletics on August 1, 1994, Rasmussen's impact on the Creighton and the Omaha community has been immense.

In his 27 years as athletics director, Creighton has risen to national prominence with its success inside and outside the lines of athletic competition. The Bluejays have won 43 regular-season conference titles and 43 conference tournament titles, graduated outstanding young women and men, built new facilities for nearly every sports program, and celebrated record-breaking fundraising campaigns.

Over the past 16 months, Bruce has been instrumental in guiding the athletic department through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, with its cancelations, postponements, and additional safety protocols. He established the Bluejays Persevere initiative, in which 50% of men's basketball season ticket holders donated all or a portion of the costs of their 2020-2021 season tickets to Creighton Athletics.

Rasmussen fostered Creighton's success in the Missouri Valley Conference, and he played a major role in Creighton's entrance into the BIG EAST Conference in March 2013. 

Creighton's reputation as one of the nation's top academic institutions is reflected in the achievements Bluejay student-athletes have had in the classroom during Bruce's time as athletics director. Creighton's baseball, softball, men's and women's basketball, men's and women's cross country, women's golf, women's soccer, and men's and women's tennis teams all have received national awards for their academic accomplishments. 

His work has been recognized nationally. In 2019, he became Division I's first four-time recipient of the Under Armour Athletic Director of the Year Award (an honor he also received in 2004, 2010, and 2015), and he received the 2019 Gary Cunningham Lifetime Achievement Award from the Division I-AAA Athletic Directors Association. In addition, he served a five-year term on the highly-esteemed NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Selection Committee, serving as its chairman in his final year in 2018.

Locally, Bruce served as a member of the College World Series of Omaha Inc. Executive Committee, playing a vital role in Creighton and the city of Omaha remaining as hosts of the College World Series. He was one of six individuals on the CWS Oversight Committee that helped select the location for the new downtown TD Ameritrade Park Omaha.

After months of thought and prayerful consideration, I have decided that this is the right time for me to step down as Athletics Director at Creighton University. My last day of employment will be August 16. My focus will shift to my family and other passions that have been on my heart for years. Being the Athletic Director at Creighton University has been the privilege of my lifetime. I will dearly miss the daily relationships with my awesome coaches, staff and students. I have also been blessed to have interacted with the many faculty and staff on Creighton's campus for the past 41 years, and with so many, many supporters who have had such a dynamic and multi-generational impact on the young men and women who have come through our athletics programs. It has been an extraordinary honor to have served Creighton University--a special place with special people-- and being a part of something bigger than myself has been one of the joys of my life.

There are many things I've been thankful for during my career at Creighton University. I thank Bluejay nation for the privilege of serving you and for the rewarding life that this has allowed me to lead. I thank my wife, Jill, and my children, who each were so very supportive of my love affair with Creighton University. My thanks also go out to my senior staff, coaches and department staff, our unbelievable student-athletes, my many colleagues over the years at Creighton University, and the donors and fans of our program for their support. Many of my very dear friends are as a result of my career at Creighton—they have mentored me and provided guidance throughout my career. I thank Father Hendrickson and the Presidents at Creighton who preceded him. You cannot have any measure of success in athletics without a caring and supportive President and Board of Trustees. None of what we have achieved could have been accomplished without the collective efforts of everyone who loves the University and our athletics program and the many giants upon whose shoulders we have stood. To all of you I extend my heartfelt thanks and deep appreciation for your encouragement, wisdom and support.

I have said it often throughout my career, but it needs to be repeated—the success of Creighton Athletics would not be possible without so many people going beyond their jobs and their families to make a commitment to us. Our supporters need to know that by doing so, they have touched the hearts and changed the lives of thousands of students who also happened to be athletes over the years. When I see our product—the young men and women who have come through our programs—and how they are leading in their families and businesses and communities, and to see their character and servant hearts, I am so proud of them and Creighton University. This could not have been accomplished without your support.

I just completed my 50th year in education, including teaching, coaching and administration, and it is the right time to step aside and provide an opportunity for both new and different voices and a more contemporary vision. I take great comfort in knowing that the program is in good hands with the amazing staff we currently have in our athletics department. I have always tried to do what is right for Creighton University. This is without doubt the most difficult professional decision that I have ever made. I have spent a great amount of time thinking about this. This is the right time for me. It is short notice because I am uncomfortable with farewell tours and long "good-byes".

Story by Rob Anderson - Creighton AthleticsOMAHA, Neb. -- After 50 years in education, including the last 41 at Creighton University, McCormick Endowed Director of Athletics Bruce Rasmussen has announced that he will be retiring, with his last day on August 16, 2021. Hired as Director of Athletics on August 1, 1994, Rasmussen's impact on the Creighton and the Omaha community has been immense.In his 27 years as athletics director, Creighton has risen to national prominence with its success inside and outside the lines of athletic competition. The Bluejays have won 43 regular-season conference titles and 43 conference tournament titles, graduated outstanding young women and men, built new facilities for nearly every sports program, and celebrated record-breaking fundraising campaigns.Over the past 16 months, Bruce has been instrumental in guiding the athletic department through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, with its cancelations, postponements, and additional safety protocols. He established the Bluejays Persevere initiative, in which 50% of men's basketball season ticket holders donated all or a portion of the costs of their 2020-2021 season tickets to Creighton Athletics.Rasmussen fostered Creighton's success in the Missouri Valley Conference, and he played a major role in Creighton's entrance into the BIG EAST Conference in March 2013. Creighton's reputation as one of the nation's top academic institutions is reflected in the achievements Bluejay student-athletes have had in the classroom during Bruce's time as athletics director. Creighton's baseball, softball, men's and women's basketball, men's and women's cross country, women's golf, women's soccer, and men's and women's tennis teams all have received national awards for their academic accomplishments. His work has been recognized nationally. In 2019, he became Division I's first four-time recipient of the Under Armour Athletic Director of the Year Award (an honor he also received in 2004, 2010, and 2015), and he received the 2019 Gary Cunningham Lifetime Achievement Award from the Division I-AAA Athletic Directors Association. In addition, he served a five-year term on the highly-esteemed NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Selection Committee, serving as its chairman in his final year in 2018.Locally, Bruce served as a member of the College World Series of Omaha Inc. Executive Committee, playing a vital role in Creighton and the city of Omaha remaining as hosts of the College World Series. He was one of six individuals on the CWS Oversight Committee that helped select the location for the new downtown TD Ameritrade Park Omaha.Rasmussen issued the following letter:After months of thought and prayerful consideration, I have decided that this is the right time for me to step down as Athletics Director at Creighton University. My last day of employment will be August 16. My focus will shift to my family and other passions that have been on my heart for years. Being the Athletic Director at Creighton University has been the privilege of my lifetime. I will dearly miss the daily relationships with my awesome coaches, staff and students. I have also been blessed to have interacted with the many faculty and staff on Creighton's campus for the past 41 years, and with so many, many supporters who have had such a dynamic and multi-generational impact on the young men and women who have come through our athletics programs. It has been an extraordinary honor to have served Creighton University--a special place with special people-- and being a part of something bigger than myself has been one of the joys of my life.There are many things I've been thankful for during my career at Creighton University. I thank Bluejay nation for the privilege of serving you and for the rewarding life that this has allowed me to lead. I thank my wife, Jill, and my children, who each were so very supportive of my love affair with Creighton University. My thanks also go out to my senior staff, coaches and department staff, our unbelievable student-athletes, my many colleagues over the years at Creighton University, and the donors and fans of our program for their support. Many of my very dear friends are as a result of my career at Creighton—they have mentored me and provided guidance throughout my career. I thank Father Hendrickson and the Presidents at Creighton who preceded him. You cannot have any measure of success in athletics without a caring and supportive President and Board of Trustees. None of what we have achieved could have been accomplished without the collective efforts of everyone who loves the University and our athletics program and the many giants upon whose shoulders we have stood. To all of you I extend my heartfelt thanks and deep appreciation for your encouragement, wisdom and support. I have said it often throughout my career, but it needs to be repeated—the success of Creighton Athletics would not be possible without so many people going beyond their jobs and their families to make a commitment to us. Our supporters need to know that by doing so, they have touched the hearts and changed the lives of thousands of students who also happened to be athletes over the years. When I see our product—the young men and women who have come through our programs—and how they are leading in their families and businesses and communities, and to see their character and servant hearts, I am so proud of them and Creighton University. This could not have been accomplished without your support.I just completed my 50th year in education, including teaching, coaching and administration, and it is the right time to step aside and provide an opportunity for both new and different voices and a more contemporary vision. I take great comfort in knowing that the program is in good hands with the amazing staff we currently have in our athletics department. I have always tried to do what is right for Creighton University. This is without doubt the most difficult professional decision that I have ever made. I have spent a great amount of time thinking about this. This is the right time for me. It is short notice because I am uncomfortable with farewell tours and long "good-byes".

Athletic Director Bruce Rasmussen announces retirement date

Lincoln – Husker quarterback Adrian Martinez earned preseason recognition on Monday morning, as he was named to the Maxwell Award watch list.

The Maxwell Award has been presented to the College Player of the Year since 1937 and is named in honor of Robert "Tiny" Maxwell, a former standout at Swarthmore College and a renowned sports writer and football official.

Martinez, who makes his third straight appearance on the Maxwell Award watch list, comes off a shortened 2020 season where he completed 71.5 percent of his passes for 1,055 yards and four TDs, while rushing for a team-high 521 yards and seven scores. Martinez became the third player in program history to lead Nebraska in both rushing and passing in the same season and was the fourth Husker quarterback to lead NU in rushing. His 71.5 completion percentage ranked fifth in Big Ten history and was the fourth-best mark in a Big Ten Conference season.

Martinez, who set NU's single-game completion percentage record by completing 18-of-20 passes against Iowa, finished his junior year by totaling 412 yards of total offense in the win over Rutgers. In that game, he completed 24-of-28 passes for 255 yards and one touchdown, and he rushed a career-high 23 times for a career-high 157 yards and two scores.

He enters the 2021 season with 13 school records, including NU's career record for games with at least 400 yards of total offense (five).

Martinez is bidding to be the Huskers' fifth Maxwell Award winner, along with Mike Rozier (1983), Tommie Frazier (1995), Eric Crouch (2001) and Ndamukong Suh (2009).

The Maxwell Watch List is the first of 16 award watch lists over the next two weeks by the National College Football Awards Association.

Lincoln – Husker quarterback Adrian Martinez earned preseason recognition on Monday morning, as he was named to the Maxwell Award watch list.The Maxwell Award has been presented to the College Player of the Year since 1937 and is named in honor of Robert "Tiny" Maxwell, a former standout at Swarthmore College and a renowned sports writer and football official.Martinez, who makes his third straight appearance on the Maxwell Award watch list, comes off a shortened 2020 season where he completed 71.5 percent of his passes for 1,055 yards and four TDs, while rushing for a team-high 521 yards and seven scores. Martinez became the third player in program history to lead Nebraska in both rushing and passing in the same season and was the fourth Husker quarterback to lead NU in rushing. His 71.5 completion percentage ranked fifth in Big Ten history and was the fourth-best mark in a Big Ten Conference season.Martinez, who set NU's single-game completion percentage record by completing 18-of-20 passes against Iowa, finished his junior year by totaling 412 yards of total offense in the win over Rutgers. In that game, he completed 24-of-28 passes for 255 yards and one touchdown, and he rushed a career-high 23 times for a career-high 157 yards and two scores.He enters the 2021 season with 13 school records, including NU's career record for games with at least 400 yards of total offense (five).Martinez is bidding to be the Huskers' fifth Maxwell Award winner, along with Mike Rozier (1983), Tommie Frazier (1995), Eric Crouch (2001) and Ndamukong Suh (2009).The Maxwell Watch List is the first of 16 award watch lists over the next two weeks by the National College Football Awards Association.

Martinez Named to Maxwell Award Watch List

With a roster that included three Nebraska freshmen, the United States volleyball team placed fifth at the 2021 FIVB U20 World Championship, which concluded Sunday.

Outside hitters Ally Batenhorst and Lindsay Krause and libero Lexi Rodriguez each played a prominent role in the United States posting a 6-2 record at the tournament. After helping Team USA to its highest finish since the 2011 U20 World Championship, the trio now turn their attention to their first collegiate season, as the Huskers open the 2021 season next month.

Batenhorst started every match and totaled 82 kills. The Houston native ranked second on Team USA in kills at the U20 World Championship behind Emily Londot, who was the AVCA National Freshman of the Year at Ohio State last season. Batenhorst led the team in kills in four of Team USA's eight matches. She also served up nine aces to lead the United States in that category. Among the 15-team field, Batenhorst tied for ninth among all players in kills and 15th in aces.

A Papillion native, Krause made the most her playing time. She played in every match and finished with 36 kills on only 79 swings, posting a .316 attack percentage. Krause also tallied eight blocks.

Rodriguez was the Americans' libero for the entirety of the tournament and led Team USA in digs. Rodriguez was credited with the eighth-most digs of any player at the U20 World Championship.

Husker fans can get their first look at Batenhorst, Krause, Rodriguez and the rest of the Huskers at the annual Red-White Scrimmage, which is set for Saturday, Aug. 21. Tickets for the Red-White Scrimmage are on sale now by visiting Huskers.com/tickets.

Team USA Results at FIVB U20 World Championship (5th Place, 6-2)

USA 3, Russia 1 USA 3, Thailand 0 USA 3, Turkey 0

USA 3, Brazil 1 Russia 3, USA 1 Netherlands 3, USA 2

USA 3, Dominican Republic 0 USA 3, Poland 2 (Fifth-Place Match)

By NU Athletic CommunicationsWith a roster that included three Nebraska freshmen, the United States volleyball team placed fifth at the 2021 FIVB U20 World Championship, which concluded Sunday.Outside hitters Ally Batenhorst and Lindsay Krause and libero Lexi Rodriguez each played a prominent role in the United States posting a 6-2 record at the tournament. After helping Team USA to its highest finish since the 2011 U20 World Championship, the trio now turn their attention to their first collegiate season, as the Huskers open the 2021 season next month.Batenhorst started every match and totaled 82 kills. The Houston native ranked second on Team USA in kills at the U20 World Championship behind Emily Londot, who was the AVCA National Freshman of the Year at Ohio State last season. Batenhorst led the team in kills in four of Team USA's eight matches. She also served up nine aces to lead the United States in that category. Among the 15-team field, Batenhorst tied for ninth among all players in kills and 15th in aces.A Papillion native, Krause made the most her playing time. She played in every match and finished with 36 kills on only 79 swings, posting a .316 attack percentage. Krause also tallied eight blocks.Rodriguez was the Americans' libero for the entirety of the tournament and led Team USA in digs. Rodriguez was credited with the eighth-most digs of any player at the U20 World Championship.Husker fans can get their first look at Batenhorst, Krause, Rodriguez and the rest of the Huskers at the annual Red-White Scrimmage, which is set for Saturday, Aug. 21. Tickets for the Red-White Scrimmage are on sale now by visiting Huskers.com/tickets.Team USA Results at FIVB U20 World Championship (5th Place, 6-2)Preliminary Pool Play (3-0)USA 3, Russia 1 USA 3, Thailand 0 USA 3, Turkey 0Top Bracket Pool Play (1-2)USA 3, Brazil 1 Russia 3, USA 1 Netherlands 3, USA 2Final Round (2-0)USA 3, Dominican Republic 0 USA 3, Poland 2 (Fifth-Place Match)

Huskers Help U.S. to Fifth-Place Finish

The Juniors have a chance to win the A-7 District tournament with a pair of wins against Hastings. Hastings being a higher seed and having not lost yet, they get the opportunity to play again with a loss.&nbsp;

The Seniors face a Kearney team in Kearney who will be looking to get back to the championship and avenge the loss over the weekend to the Hastings team. Should the Seniors beat Kearney to get to the championship they too would have to beat Hastings twice to win the District and earn a trip to state.&nbsp;

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Your NPFNBO juniors will play Hastings today at 1 mt in the championship, in Scottsbluff have to beat Hastings twice today to get the A-7 junior championship and your NPFNBO seniors will take on Kearney at 6 tonight in Kearney in an elimination game <a href="https://twitter.com/Huskeradiosport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Huskeradiosport</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTNews2?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JustinTNews2</a>&mdash; North Platte Legion (@NPFNBO) <a href="https://twitter.com/NPFNBO/status/1417136275002302472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>The Juniors have a chance to win the A-7 District tournament with a pair of wins against Hastings. Hastings being a higher seed and having not lost yet, they get the opportunity to play again with a loss.&nbsp;The Seniors face a Kearney team in Kearney who will be looking to get back to the championship and avenge the loss over the weekend to the Hastings team. Should the Seniors beat Kearney to get to the championship they too would have to beat Hastings twice to win the District and earn a trip to state.&nbsp;

FNBO Nationals deep in districts; Juniors chance to win today

The NJCAA every year not only recognizes outstanding individuals who earned Academic All-American but the teams around the country as well.&nbsp;

This year two of the NPCC Knights teams were on that list: Men's Basketball (3.62 GPA) and Womens Volleyball (3.72).

For Men's Basketball they also earned team of the year honors with the highest GPA in NJCAA Men's Basketball this year.&nbsp;

The NJCAA every year not only recognizes outstanding individuals who earned Academic All-American but the teams around the country as well.&nbsp;This year two of the NPCC Knights teams were on that list: Men's Basketball (3.62 GPA) and Womens Volleyball (3.72).For Men's Basketball they also earned team of the year honors with the highest GPA in NJCAA Men's Basketball this year.&nbsp;You can see the whole list below:&nbsp;<div><html>
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 <h1>NJCAA Academic All-American Teams</h1>
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Two Knights teams earn All-American honors

The Husker Football Letterman's Association put out a statement after the Trev Alberts hiring was announced. The HFLA is an organization of former football players who continue to support the organization in various ways.&nbsp;

The Husker Football Letterman's Association put out a statement after the Trev Alberts hiring was announced. The HFLA is an organization of former football players who continue to support the organization in various ways.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626307655889.png" alt="HFLA Statement on Hiring of Athletic Director Trev Alberts 7.14.21 .png" />
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HFLA statement on Trev Alberts hiring

Story by NU Athletic Communications

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Ronnie Green announced Wednesday that Trev Alberts has been named Nebraska's Athletic Director. Alberts, who becomes the 16th Athletic Director in program history, returns to his alma mater after spending the last 12 years at Nebraska-Omaha, guiding the program through a successful transition to the Division I level, including securing conference affiliation for all of Omaha's athletic programs. He served as UNO's Director of Athletics since 2009, and was elevated to Vice Chancellor for Athletics in 2014. Alberts helped spearhead Omaha's newest facilities, including Baxter Arena and Maverick Park.

A member of the College Football Hall of Fame, Alberts is one of the most decorated student-athletes in school history. As a senior in 1993, he won the Butkus Award as the nation's top linebacker, was the Big Eight Defensive MVP and was a first-team All-American. He was Big Eight Male Athlete of the Year in 1993-94 and received the NCAA's highest honor, The Today's Top Six Award, in 1993. A three-time academic All-Big Eight honoree, Alberts was a also CoSIDA Academic All-American in 1993.

UNL Chancellor Ronnie Green on the Hiring of Trev Alberts as Huskers Athletic Director:

"I am excited to announce Trev Alberts as the new Athletic Director for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Since his winning days in Memorial Stadium, Trev has been passionate about Nebraska and has gained tremendous experience in collegiate athletics. He knows how to help build competitive, winning programs and is committed to long-term success. He knows how to navigate the complex financial aspects of a media-driven business. He remains a student athlete at heart and prioritizes student success, on and off the playing field. I am so pleased to welcome this Husker back home to Husker Nation."

"It is such a tremendous honor to have this opportunity to lead Husker Athletics. UNL has incredibly talented coaches and student athletes, and a fan base like no other program in the country.  The future of Big Red is bright. I can't wait to join the Husker Athletics team and get going."

University of Nebraska System President Ted Carter:

"Trev Alberts understands the special role that Husker athletics plays in our state, and he knows firsthand the discipline and hard work necessary to compete with the best. I'm thrilled that we have found someone in the Nebraska family to lead our student-athletes, coaches and staff forward."

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln Chancellor Ronnie Green announced Wednesday that Trev Alberts has been named Nebraska's Athletic Director. Alberts, who becomes the 16th Athletic Director in program history, returns to his alma mater after spending the last 12 years at Nebraska-Omaha, guiding the program through a successful transition to the Division I level, including securing conference affiliation for all of Omaha's athletic programs. He served as UNO's Director of Athletics since 2009, and was elevated to Vice Chancellor for Athletics in 2014. Alberts helped spearhead Omaha's newest facilities, including Baxter Arena and Maverick Park.A member of the College Football Hall of Fame, Alberts is one of the most decorated student-athletes in school history. As a senior in 1993, he won the Butkus Award as the nation's top linebacker, was the Big Eight Defensive MVP and was a first-team All-American. He was Big Eight Male Athlete of the Year in 1993-94 and received the NCAA's highest honor, The Today's Top Six Award, in 1993. A three-time academic All-Big Eight honoree, Alberts was a also CoSIDA Academic All-American in 1993.UNL Chancellor Ronnie Green on the Hiring of Trev Alberts as Huskers Athletic Director:"I am excited to announce Trev Alberts as the new Athletic Director for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Since his winning days in Memorial Stadium, Trev has been passionate about Nebraska and has gained tremendous experience in collegiate athletics. He knows how to help build competitive, winning programs and is committed to long-term success. He knows how to navigate the complex financial aspects of a media-driven business. He remains a student athlete at heart and prioritizes student success, on and off the playing field. I am so pleased to welcome this Husker back home to Husker Nation."Nebraska Athletic Director Trev Alberts:"It is such a tremendous honor to have this opportunity to lead Husker Athletics. UNL has incredibly talented coaches and student athletes, and a fan base like no other program in the country. The future of Big Red is bright. I can't wait to join the Husker Athletics team and get going."University of Nebraska System President Ted Carter:"Trev Alberts understands the special role that Husker athletics plays in our state, and he knows firsthand the discipline and hard work necessary to compete with the best. I'm thrilled that we have found someone in the Nebraska family to lead our student-athletes, coaches and staff forward."

Alberts Named Nebraska Athletic Director

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Join us in welcoming back one of our own to the Big Red Family: Trev Alberts, Athletic Director.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GBR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GBR</a> <a href="https://t.co/jPoCtAAKJt">pic.twitter.com/jPoCtAAKJt</a>&mdash; Nebraska Huskers (@Huskers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Huskers/status/1415317643746230279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
</div>

BREAKING: Nebraska announces new Athletic Director

ATHENS, Ohio (AP) — Ohio football coach Frank Solich is retiring after leading the program through 16 seasons of unprecedented success to "focus on his health." 

The school announced that Solich was stepping down less than two months before the start of the season and his 77th birthday. 

Offensive coordinator Tim Albin was promoted to head coach. He received a four-year contract. 

Solich is the winningest head coach in the history of the Mid-American Conference with 115 victories. 

Including a stint as head coach at Nebraska, his alma mater, Solich is 173-101 as a major college football head coach.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626269597463.png" alt="Photo: Ohio Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo: Ohio Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>ATHENS, Ohio (AP) — Ohio football coach Frank Solich is retiring after leading the program through 16 seasons of unprecedented success to "focus on his health." The school announced that Solich was stepping down less than two months before the start of the season and his 77th birthday. Offensive coordinator Tim Albin was promoted to head coach. He received a four-year contract. Solich is the winningest head coach in the history of the Mid-American Conference with 115 victories. Including a stint as head coach at Nebraska, his alma mater, Solich is 173-101 as a major college football head coach.

Ohio coach Frank Solich stepping down to focus on health

Tickets to Nebraska volleyball's annual Red-White Scrimmage will go on sale Thursday, July 15 at 10 a.m. (Central).

The Huskers will host their annual scrimmage on Saturday, Aug. 21 at 6 p.m. at the Bob Devaney Sports Center. Tickets can be purchased for $10 online at Huskers.com/tickets, in person at the ticket office or by calling 1-800-8-BIG-RED. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets online for the best chance at securing seats quickly.

Tickets for all Nebraska Athletic events – including the Red-White Scrimmage – are mobile tickets only. For more information on mobile ticketing, visit huskers.com/gomobile.

Tickets to Nebraska volleyball's annual Red-White Scrimmage will go on sale Thursday, July 15 at 10 a.m. (Central).The Huskers will host their annual scrimmage on Saturday, Aug. 21 at 6 p.m. at the Bob Devaney Sports Center. Tickets can be purchased for $10 online at Huskers.com/tickets, in person at the ticket office or by calling 1-800-8-BIG-RED. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets online for the best chance at securing seats quickly.Tickets for all Nebraska Athletic events – including the Red-White Scrimmage – are mobile tickets only. For more information on mobile ticketing, visit huskers.com/gomobile.

Red-White (VB) Tickets on Sale Thursday

LINCOLN, Neb. – Duck hunters must choose between two daily bag limits when they register for their Harvest Information Program number this year.

Nebraska and South Dakota are entering a new “two-tier” program starting with the 2021-2022 regular duck season.

Tier I is the current traditional six-duck bag limit with species and sex restrictions. Tier II is a three-duck bag limit with no species or sex restrictions.

HIP registration begins Aug. 1. When hunters go to register, they will be asked whether they plan to hunt ducks. If so, they will be prompted to select a tier. Hunters will be bound to that bag limit for the entire season.

The regulations will not apply to goose limits or during the early teal season, which have their own bag limits.

All hunters age 16 and older, including residents, nonresidents, lifetime permit holders, veterans and senior permit holders, are required to register for HIP if they plan to hunt migratory game birds in Nebraska between Sept. 1, 2021, and July 31, 2022.

Residents under the age of 16 are exempt from the HIP requirement if they choose the Tier I bag limit, but must register for HIP if selecting Tier II. All nonresidents under the age of 16 must register for HIP regardless of the tier they select.

Hunters who choose the Tier II option will be provided a journal, where they will record information on hunting activity and harvest. The journal will be submitted to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission at the end of the hunting season. In addition, postage-paid envelopes will be provided to each hunter with the expectation that a wing from each duck harvested also will be sent. This process will be similar to ongoing federal collection efforts to estimate harvest. Duck harvest and species composition will then be compared to hunters using the Tier I option.

In a survey, duck identification skills were identified as a factor preventing potential hunters from taking up the sport. The new two-tier regulations are an effort to remove the barrier associated with identification skills.

Starting Aug. 1, hunters can register for HIP at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MTIuNDMxMDYxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ISVAvIn0.cHplGRdi0lOsGBB9z16E44hK0Y5J4-RDxY4Uz7gFYx4/s/1372948182/br/109198307919-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/HIP</a>. Registered hunters are assigned a number that they must carry with them while hunting.

HIP, which is required by federal regulation of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, helps wildlife managers estimate the number of migratory game birds harvested each year. Migratory birds include doves, ducks, geese, snipe, rail, coots and woodcock.

The two-tier program will continue for the next four seasons, and then be reexamined to determine whether it affected waterfowl hunter numbers and duck populations.

For more information on the two-tier system, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MTIuNDMxMDYxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9EdWNrVGllcnMvIn0.MAjeZmJ8oMhNj3WtmdH71OQctTlJL-z5DlywLmQQv1I/s/1372948182/br/109198307919-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/DuckTiers</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571333039832.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Neb. – Duck hunters must choose between two daily bag limits when they register for their Harvest Information Program number this year.Nebraska and South Dakota are entering a new “two-tier” program starting with the 2021-2022 regular duck season.Tier I is the current traditional six-duck bag limit with species and sex restrictions. Tier II is a three-duck bag limit with no species or sex restrictions.HIP registration begins Aug. 1. When hunters go to register, they will be asked whether they plan to hunt ducks. If so, they will be prompted to select a tier. Hunters will be bound to that bag limit for the entire season.The regulations will not apply to goose limits or during the early teal season, which have their own bag limits.All hunters age 16 and older, including residents, nonresidents, lifetime permit holders, veterans and senior permit holders, are required to register for HIP if they plan to hunt migratory game birds in Nebraska between Sept. 1, 2021, and July 31, 2022.Residents under the age of 16 are exempt from the HIP requirement if they choose the Tier I bag limit, but must register for HIP if selecting Tier II. All nonresidents under the age of 16 must register for HIP regardless of the tier they select.Hunters who choose the Tier II option will be provided a journal, where they will record information on hunting activity and harvest. The journal will be submitted to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission at the end of the hunting season. In addition, postage-paid envelopes will be provided to each hunter with the expectation that a wing from each duck harvested also will be sent. This process will be similar to ongoing federal collection efforts to estimate harvest. Duck harvest and species composition will then be compared to hunters using the Tier I option.In a survey, duck identification skills were identified as a factor preventing potential hunters from taking up the sport. The new two-tier regulations are an effort to remove the barrier associated with identification skills.Starting Aug. 1, hunters can register for HIP at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MTIuNDMxMDYxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9ISVAvIn0.cHplGRdi0lOsGBB9z16E44hK0Y5J4-RDxY4Uz7gFYx4/s/1372948182/br/109198307919-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.gov/HIP</a>. Registered hunters are assigned a number that they must carry with them while hunting.HIP, which is required by federal regulation of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, helps wildlife managers estimate the number of migratory game birds harvested each year. Migratory birds include doves, ducks, geese, snipe, rail, coots and woodcock.The two-tier program will continue for the next four seasons, and then be reexamined to determine whether it affected waterfowl hunter numbers and duck populations.For more information on the two-tier system, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MTIuNDMxMDYxOTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vb3V0ZG9vcm5lYnJhc2thLmdvdi9EdWNrVGllcnMvIn0.MAjeZmJ8oMhNj3WtmdH71OQctTlJL-z5DlywLmQQv1I/s/1372948182/br/109198307919-l" target="_blank">OutdoorNebraska.org/DuckTiers</a>.

Duck hunters must choose from two bag limits when they register for HIP

NPHS Coaches and players will but putting on a couple of football camps for youths and Middle schoolers. The camps will be four days long starting on July 19th.&nbsp;

<a href="https://npbulldogcamps.ryzerevents.com/">You can register for the camps here</a>

<div><iframe title="NP Bulldog Football camps with Coach Rice" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=j7rdk-108a889-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=3&font-color=&btn-skin=1b1b1b"></iframe></div>NPHS Coaches and players will but putting on a couple of football camps for youths and Middle schoolers. The camps will be four days long starting on July 19th.&nbsp;<a href="https://npbulldogcamps.ryzerevents.com/">You can register for the camps here</a>

NPHS Bulldog football camps coming up soon! Audio with Coach Rice

Husker fans can mark Thursday, July 29 on their calendar, with the annual Nebraska Football Fan Day set for that evening.

The event will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Memorial Stadium, with Fan Day annually being the best opportunity for fans to meet and greet Husker players, coaches and staff before the start of football season.

More information on the 2021 Nebraska Football Fan Day will be available in the coming days, including fan entrances, parking information, player seating maps, health guidelines, autograph policies and more.

Husker fans can mark Thursday, July 29 on their calendar, with the annual Nebraska Football Fan Day set for that evening.The event will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Memorial Stadium, with Fan Day annually being the best opportunity for fans to meet and greet Husker players, coaches and staff before the start of football season.More information on the 2021 Nebraska Football Fan Day will be available in the coming days, including fan entrances, parking information, player seating maps, health guidelines, autograph policies and more.

Fan Day Set for Thursday, July 29

Lincoln – Big Ten Player of the Year Spencer Schwellenbach heard his named called Monday afternoon during the second round of the 2021 MLB Draft when he was taken 59th overall by the Atlanta Braves.

Since 2015, the Huskers have had four players taken in the first 10 rounds of the Draft, including Schwellenbach (2nd – Atlanta in 2021), Scott Schreiber (9th – Tampa Bay in 2018), Ryan Boldt (2nd – Tampa Bay in 2016) and Tanner Lubach (9th – Anaheim in 2015).

Schwellenbach was named the 2021 John Olerud Two-Way Player of the Year after hitting .284 with six homers and 40 RBIs at shortstop, while also going 3-1 with 10 saves and a 0.57 ERA in 31.2 innings of work.

Tabbed an All-American by five different publications in 2021, including a first-team pick by D1Baseball and ABCA/Rawlings, Schwellenbach ranked in the top 10 in the Big Ten in runs, RBIs and walks, while in the field he committed just four errors in 186 chances. He made his debut on the mound in 2021, and led the Big Ten with 10 saves and did not allow a run in 17 of his 18 appearances. He fanned 34 in 31.2 innings and held opposing hitters to a .198 average. His last appearance on the mound was a season-high 4.2-inning shutout relief appearances in the NCAA Tournament over then No. 1 Arkansas on June 6.

Rounds 2-10 of the 2021 MLB Draft take place today, and the draft concludes on Tuesday with rounds 11-20 starting at 11 AM. A live video stream for Monday and Tuesday can be found on MLB.com.

By NU Athletic CommunicationsLincoln – Big Ten Player of the Year Spencer Schwellenbach heard his named called Monday afternoon during the second round of the 2021 MLB Draft when he was taken 59th overall by the Atlanta Braves.Since 2015, the Huskers have had four players taken in the first 10 rounds of the Draft, including Schwellenbach (2nd – Atlanta in 2021), Scott Schreiber (9th – Tampa Bay in 2018), Ryan Boldt (2nd – Tampa Bay in 2016) and Tanner Lubach (9th – Anaheim in 2015).Schwellenbach was named the 2021 John Olerud Two-Way Player of the Year after hitting .284 with six homers and 40 RBIs at shortstop, while also going 3-1 with 10 saves and a 0.57 ERA in 31.2 innings of work.Tabbed an All-American by five different publications in 2021, including a first-team pick by D1Baseball and ABCA/Rawlings, Schwellenbach ranked in the top 10 in the Big Ten in runs, RBIs and walks, while in the field he committed just four errors in 186 chances. He made his debut on the mound in 2021, and led the Big Ten with 10 saves and did not allow a run in 17 of his 18 appearances. He fanned 34 in 31.2 innings and held opposing hitters to a .198 average. His last appearance on the mound was a season-high 4.2-inning shutout relief appearances in the NCAA Tournament over then No. 1 Arkansas on June 6.Rounds 2-10 of the 2021 MLB Draft take place today, and the draft concludes on Tuesday with rounds 11-20 starting at 11 AM. A live video stream for Monday and Tuesday can be found on MLB.com.