<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Xltm-rxaNIAnwehuUiTpv8kU1LMRxahh_71LLAYqWEN5NDkLKg5PSTkQnIAakur2OHkMqiBBm2Bmgzci7d0G-5GbKxm17eNPXRr3f3R2R6biyJDbq-QuyLABdeYjpToJXcWyoHwnGTmBHIZ1fC9RKOBRnfU07P75NKylBfXd3MduWgkwYiqfmMNL4ZlO8NOu5uTZz8V_cS0_URabkyWf-KU8FsKVPUh5HU8F0xWH7_c=&amp;c=H_Zc-9B_puKO828ycfiWx4-Gype7UJqkLoqbHudYVYudHaNLOZ_xHQ==&amp;ch=eqUm5spma5rcULhu_MtSs17o9yW4TzQqt16D58SaIdPuog1uh8i4Sw==&amp;jrc=1">You can use this link to download the registration form.&nbsp;</a>

<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Xltm-rxaNIAnwehuUiTpv8kU1LMRxahh_71LLAYqWEN5NDkLKg5PSTkQnIAakur2OHkMqiBBm2Bmgzci7d0G-5GbKxm17eNPXRr3f3R2R6biyJDbq-QuyLABdeYjpToJXcWyoHwnGTmBHIZ1fC9RKOBRnfU07P75NKylBfXd3MduWgkwYiqfmMNL4ZlO8NOu5uTZz8V_cS0_URabkyWf-KU8FsKVPUh5HU8F0xWH7_c=&amp;c=H_Zc-9B_puKO828ycfiWx4-Gype7UJqkLoqbHudYVYudHaNLOZ_xHQ==&amp;ch=eqUm5spma5rcULhu_MtSs17o9yW4TzQqt16D58SaIdPuog1uh8i4Sw==&amp;jrc=1">You can use this link to download the registration form.&nbsp;</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619630626080.jpeg" alt="Golf Tournament Flier.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Golf Tournament Flier.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

Area sports: Annual Drover Golf Tournament registrations open

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619628268473.jpeg" alt="Girls A-4 District 2021.JPG" />
 <figcaption>Girls A-4 District 2021.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>

NPHS Soccer: Bulldog Girls hosting A-4 district, Fremont first round

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619626589726.jpeg" alt="Boys Soccer A-6 district 2021.JPG" />
 <figcaption>Boys Soccer A-6 district 2021.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure>

NPHS Soccer: Bulldog boys headed to Lincoln for districts

&nbsp; By RALPH D. RUSSO - Associated Press

The NCAA Board of Governors voted Tuesday to give President Mark Emmert a two-year contract extension through 2025.

Emmert’s contract was set to expire in 2023, but the board voted unanimously to extend his deal, the NCAA said in a statement.

The announcement comes less than a month after the NCAA and Emmert drew sharp criticism for inequities between the women’s and men’s Division I basketball tournaments.

Exactly one month ago, Board of Governors chairman Jack DeGioia told AP the board was satisfied with Emmert’s handling of the basketball tournament issues and his overall performance.

Emmert has also been facing scrutiny and political pressure for the NCAA’s inability to move forward with proposed reforms to its rules prohibiting athletes from earning money off their names, images and likenesses.

“We have confidence in Mark’s continuing leadership of the NCAA,” DeGioia, who is president of Georgetown University, told AP.

DeGioia’s comments came one day after Emmert told AP: “We’ve had a bunch of challenges to say the least, but there’s no doubt in my mind the NCAA is moving in a good direction despite all of this and as long as my board is supportive I want to keep doing this job.”

Dozens of states have bills in the pipeline that will prohibit the NCAA from stopping college athletes from being compensated for endorsement and sponsorship deals. Florida and Mississippi are among the states with laws scheduled to go into effect July 1.

Emmert and the NCAA have turned to federal lawmakers for help with NIL.

The NCAA is also awaiting a ruling from the Supreme Court in an antitrust case the association has been fighting for several years.

Emmert has been NCAA president since November 2010, when he succeeded the late Myles Brand. Only Walter Byers (1951-1988) has headed the NCAA longer than Emmert.

According to the NCAA’s federal tax returns, Emmert made $2.7 million during 2018, USA Today reported last year.

&nbsp; By RALPH D. RUSSO - Associated Press The NCAA Board of Governors voted Tuesday to give President Mark Emmert a two-year contract extension through 2025.Emmert’s contract was set to expire in 2023, but the board voted unanimously to extend his deal, the NCAA said in a statement.The announcement comes less than a month after the NCAA and Emmert drew sharp criticism for inequities between the women’s and men’s Division I basketball tournaments.Exactly one month ago, Board of Governors chairman Jack DeGioia told AP the board was satisfied with Emmert’s handling of the basketball tournament issues and his overall performance.Emmert has also been facing scrutiny and political pressure for the NCAA’s inability to move forward with proposed reforms to its rules prohibiting athletes from earning money off their names, images and likenesses.“We have confidence in Mark’s continuing leadership of the NCAA,” DeGioia, who is president of Georgetown University, told AP.DeGioia’s comments came one day after Emmert told AP: “We’ve had a bunch of challenges to say the least, but there’s no doubt in my mind the NCAA is moving in a good direction despite all of this and as long as my board is supportive I want to keep doing this job.”Dozens of states have bills in the pipeline that will prohibit the NCAA from stopping college athletes from being compensated for endorsement and sponsorship deals. Florida and Mississippi are among the states with laws scheduled to go into effect July 1.Emmert and the NCAA have turned to federal lawmakers for help with NIL.The NCAA is also awaiting a ruling from the Supreme Court in an antitrust case the association has been fighting for several years.Emmert has been NCAA president since November 2010, when he succeeded the late Myles Brand. Only Walter Byers (1951-1988) has headed the NCAA longer than Emmert.According to the NCAA’s federal tax returns, Emmert made $2.7 million during 2018, USA Today reported last year.

NCAA extends contract of President Mark Emmert through 2025

Story by George Haws - Sports Information Coordinator

The North Platte Community College Knights softball team picked up two more wins Monday, in a matchup against Northwest Kansas Technical College at Dowhower Softball Complex in North Platte.

“It’s great to finally get into rhythm and show how we can play,” said NPCC Knights head softball coach Janelle Higgins. “The team is starting to click and pick each other up in tough situations.”

The Knights began scoring runs early. They got things started in the first inning when an error scored them two runs.

In the top of the second inning, NWKTC tied things up, capitalizing on an error to score three runs.

Then the Knights pulled away for good with six runs in the third inning. Jenny Singer, of Calgary, Alberta, singled on a 1-2 count, scoring one run, Zoey Bredleau-Beehler, of Portland, Ore., singled on a 1-0 count to bring in a runner. 

Jordan Young, of Johnstown, Colo., singled on a 3-2 count, scoring two runs, and Kirsten Greenwalt, of Aurora, Colo., doubled on the first pitch of at bat, scoring two.

Nevaeh Ramirez, of Thornton, Colo., was in the circle for the Knights. She allowed 10 hits and six runs over the seven innings, striking out six.

The Knights tallied nine hits, led by Greenwalt, Young and Singer, who each collected two hits.

In the second game, the Knights scored one run in the third inning, two in the fourth and three in the fifth. 

That’s when Greenwalt knocked the ball out of the park for a home run, and Horner scored a home run of her own on a long ball.

The Knights collected six hits on the game, led by Greenwalt and Ashlyn Wheeling, of Thornton, Colo., who each had two hits.

The Knights host McCook Community College in a doubleheader Wednesday. The first game begins at 5 pm.

With their two wins against Southeast Community College last Friday, the Knights secured the number two seed in Region IX. They will host SCC again in the first round of the regional tournament Saturday. The first game of the doubleheader will begin at 1 pm.

Story by George Haws - Sports Information CoordinatorThe North Platte Community College Knights softball team picked up two more wins Monday, in a matchup against Northwest Kansas Technical College at Dowhower Softball Complex in North Platte.Final scores were 9-6 and 6-3.“It’s great to finally get into rhythm and show how we can play,” said NPCC Knights head softball coach Janelle Higgins. “The team is starting to click and pick each other up in tough situations.”The Knights began scoring runs early. They got things started in the first inning when an error scored them two runs.In the top of the second inning, NWKTC tied things up, capitalizing on an error to score three runs.Then the Knights pulled away for good with six runs in the third inning. Jenny Singer, of Calgary, Alberta, singled on a 1-2 count, scoring one run, Zoey Bredleau-Beehler, of Portland, Ore., singled on a 1-0 count to bring in a runner. Jordan Young, of Johnstown, Colo., singled on a 3-2 count, scoring two runs, and Kirsten Greenwalt, of Aurora, Colo., doubled on the first pitch of at bat, scoring two.Nevaeh Ramirez, of Thornton, Colo., was in the circle for the Knights. She allowed 10 hits and six runs over the seven innings, striking out six.The Knights tallied nine hits, led by Greenwalt, Young and Singer, who each collected two hits.In the second game, the Knights scored one run in the third inning, two in the fourth and three in the fifth. That’s when Greenwalt knocked the ball out of the park for a home run, and Horner scored a home run of her own on a long ball.The Knights collected six hits on the game, led by Greenwalt and Ashlyn Wheeling, of Thornton, Colo., who each had two hits.North Platte is now 11-25 on the season.The Knights host McCook Community College in a doubleheader Wednesday. The first game begins at 5 pm.With their two wins against Southeast Community College last Friday, the Knights secured the number two seed in Region IX. They will host SCC again in the first round of the regional tournament Saturday. The first game of the doubleheader will begin at 1 pm.

Knights defeat NW Kansas Tech in doubleheader

It's hard to believe but after over a year without hitting the pitch the 2021 NSAA season is almost at an end. Teams around the state are finishing off their regular season schedule as they get ready for district play. North Platte, for their part, is looking forward to hosting a district tournament on the girls side of things while the boys are playing well at the right time to make a push as they will probably travel to Omaha.&nbsp;Here is how the points standings look before the final game of the season against Scottsbluff.

Boys: If districts started today, North Platte would be in A-5 hosted by Millard South with Kearney, North Platte and Papillion La Vista&nbsp;

Girls:&nbsp; If the district started today North Platte would host A-4 with Elkhorn South, Omaha Westside and Fremont

It's hard to believe but after over a year without hitting the pitch the 2021 NSAA season is almost at an end. Teams around the state are finishing off their regular season schedule as they get ready for district play. North Platte, for their part, is looking forward to hosting a district tournament on the girls side of things while the boys are playing well at the right time to make a push as they will probably travel to Omaha.&nbsp;Here is how the points standings look before the final game of the season against Scottsbluff.Boys: If districts started today, North Platte would be in A-5 hosted by Millard South with Kearney, North Platte and Papillion La Vista&nbsp;Class A:<ul>
 <li>Lincoln Southwest&nbsp;(13-0),&nbsp;45.8462</li><li>Omaha South&nbsp;(14-1),&nbsp;45.2667</li><li>Gretna&nbsp;(13-2),&nbsp;44.3333</li><li>Creighton Preparatory School&nbsp;(10-4),&nbsp;43.6429</li><li>Millard South&nbsp;(11-4),&nbsp;43.0667</li><li>Lincoln East&nbsp;(10-4),&nbsp;42.3571</li><li>Lincoln Southeast&nbsp;(8-4),&nbsp;42.3333</li><li>Omaha Westside&nbsp;(8-5),&nbsp;42.0769</li><li>Millard West&nbsp;(8-6),&nbsp;42.0714</li><li>Kearney&nbsp;(9-5),&nbsp;41.5714</li><li>Grand Island&nbsp;(8-5),&nbsp;41.3846</li><li>Omaha Bryan&nbsp;(9-7),&nbsp;41.2500</li><li>Lincoln High&nbsp;(9-6),&nbsp;41.0000</li><li>Millard North&nbsp;(7-9),&nbsp;41.0000</li><li>Papillion-LaVista South&nbsp;(8-7),&nbsp;40.8667</li><li>Elkhorn South&nbsp;(7-6),&nbsp;40.5385</li><li>Bellevue West&nbsp;(6-8),&nbsp;40.2857</li><li>Omaha Northwest&nbsp;(9-8),&nbsp;40.0588</li><li>Papillion-LaVista&nbsp;(7-8),&nbsp;39.9333</li><li>Omaha Burke&nbsp;(8-8),&nbsp;39.8125</li><li>Lincoln Pius X&nbsp;(5-7),&nbsp;39.5833</li><li>Norfolk&nbsp;(7-7),&nbsp;39.5714</li><li>Omaha Central&nbsp;(5-8),&nbsp;39.0769</li><li>North Platte&nbsp;(7-9),&nbsp;38.9375</li><li>Columbus&nbsp;(5-7),&nbsp;38.8333</li><li>Fremont&nbsp;(5-9),&nbsp;38.2143</li><li>Lincoln Northeast&nbsp;(3-8),&nbsp;38.1818</li><li>Omaha Benson&nbsp;(4-11),&nbsp;37.3333</li><li>Lincoln North Star&nbsp;(0-11),&nbsp;35.1818</li><li>Bellevue East&nbsp;(1-13),&nbsp;34.8571</li><li>Omaha North&nbsp;(0-17),&nbsp;33.8824</li>
 </ul>Girls:&nbsp; If the district started today North Platte would host A-4 with Elkhorn South, Omaha Westside and FremontClass A:<ul>
 <li>Lincoln Southwest&nbsp;(12-0),&nbsp;45.7500</li><li>Gretna&nbsp;(16-0),&nbsp;45.3125</li><li>Lincoln East&nbsp;(13-1),&nbsp;44.7143</li><li>North Platte&nbsp;(12-4),&nbsp;43.5000</li><li>Papillion-LaVista South&nbsp;(10-4),&nbsp;43.2143</li><li>Omaha Marian&nbsp;(10-3),&nbsp;43.0769</li><li>Kearney&nbsp;(9-5),&nbsp;42.4286</li><li>Papillion-LaVista&nbsp;(9-6),&nbsp;42.4000</li><li>Lincoln Southeast&nbsp;(8-4),&nbsp;42.3333</li><li>Columbus&nbsp;(9-4),&nbsp;42.2308</li><li>Elkhorn South&nbsp;(7-4),&nbsp;42.1818</li><li>Lincoln Pius X&nbsp;(8-5),&nbsp;41.8462</li><li>Millard North&nbsp;(9-7),&nbsp;41.6250</li><li>Millard West&nbsp;(7-6),&nbsp;41.4615</li><li>Omaha Burke&nbsp;(7-8),&nbsp;40.9333</li><li>Omaha Central&nbsp;(9-5),&nbsp;40.9286</li><li>Millard South&nbsp;(7-7),&nbsp;40.2143</li><li>Omaha Westside&nbsp;(4-7),&nbsp;39.7273</li><li>Lincoln North Star&nbsp;(5-7),&nbsp;39.5833</li><li>Bellevue East&nbsp;(8-5),&nbsp;39.5385</li><li>Lincoln High&nbsp;(6-8),&nbsp;38.5714</li><li>Bellevue West&nbsp;(5-9),&nbsp;38.4286</li><li>Norfolk&nbsp;(4-8),&nbsp;37.9167</li><li>Omaha South&nbsp;(4-13),&nbsp;37.5294</li><li>Fremont&nbsp;(4-10),&nbsp;37.4286</li><li>Grand Island&nbsp;(3-10),&nbsp;37.3846</li><li>Lincoln Northeast&nbsp;(2-10),&nbsp;36.3333</li><li>Omaha Benson&nbsp;(3-10),&nbsp;35.5385</li><li>Omaha Northwest&nbsp;(2-12),&nbsp;35.4286</li><li>Omaha Bryan&nbsp;(3-10),&nbsp;35.3077</li><li>Omaha North&nbsp;(0-15),&nbsp;32.4000</li>
 </ul>

NPHS Soccer: Bulldogs get ready for district play with one remaining

Area Sports: Track and Field results from Medicine Valley invite (4/26) 

North Platte Community College Head Women’s Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman has been named the National Junior College Athletic Association Coach of the Year for Region IX and Northwest Plains District.

“We are obviously very proud of Jeff and the women’s basketball team and their accomplishments this year,” said Kevin O’Connor, NPCC athletic director. “After getting off to a rough start, the team bounced back and played extremely well the last part of the season. Their efforts paid off by winning the Region IX championship, then defeating a very good Rochester, Minn. team to capture the district title and qualify for the national tournament.”

Thurman said the awards are more than just a personal accolade.

“It is the culmination of work that our student-athletes put in this year, on and off the court,” said Thurman.

He also credited NPCC Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach Sarafina Handy, for her “tireless work behind the scenes.”

“I could not have accomplished any of this without her,” said Thurman. “These awards could not have happened without the belief and trust of everyone inside our program. I thank them for it.”

The team ended their season on Thursday at the NJCAA national championship tournament in Hickory, N. Carolina. Their final, overall record was 10-13.

Story by George Haws - Sports Information CoordinatorNorth Platte Community College Head Women’s Basketball Coach Jeff Thurman has been named the National Junior College Athletic Association Coach of the Year for Region IX and Northwest Plains District.“We are obviously very proud of Jeff and the women’s basketball team and their accomplishments this year,” said Kevin O’Connor, NPCC athletic director. “After getting off to a rough start, the team bounced back and played extremely well the last part of the season. Their efforts paid off by winning the Region IX championship, then defeating a very good Rochester, Minn. team to capture the district title and qualify for the national tournament.”Thurman said the awards are more than just a personal accolade.“It is the culmination of work that our student-athletes put in this year, on and off the court,” said Thurman.He also credited NPCC Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach Sarafina Handy, for her “tireless work behind the scenes.”“I could not have accomplished any of this without her,” said Thurman. “These awards could not have happened without the belief and trust of everyone inside our program. I thank them for it.”The team ended their season on Thursday at the NJCAA national championship tournament in Hickory, N. Carolina. Their final, overall record was 10-13.

Thurman named Coach of the Year

(North Platte, Nebraska, April 26, 2021) – On May 25th&nbsp;and 26th, the best of Nebraska High School Class D boys’ golfers will compete in North Platte for the state championship title. The event is expected to draw 90-110 golfers to the Lake Maloney Golf Course. Class D is one of the highest-traveling classes, so we can expect many family, friends and well-wishers to come to North Platte to watch the tournament.

It will take a small army of volunteers to ensure that these boys have a memorable state championship experience. Helping with a state championship is incredibly rewarding. Just by getting to know these incredible young men, volunteers will find that their hope in the leadership of tomorrow is renewed.

One of the highly sought-after volunteer duties is for scoring monitors. These monitors will accompany athletes, personally recording the hole-by-hole strokes of each golfer as well as helping with the speed of play by watching tee shots and looking for lost balls. Scoring monitors do not have to make any rules decisions. At least thirty scoring monitors will be needed throughout the tournament.

Other volunteers needed are Official Score Card Keepers, Score Board staff, Spotters, and Real Time Scorers. Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Samantha Geisler at the North Platte / Lincoln County Visitors Bureau at 308-221-6865 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sgeisler@playnorthplatte.com" target="_blank">sgeisler@playnorthplatte.com</a>. You can also apply to be a volunteer online at PLAYNORTHPLATTE.COM.

Priority is given to volunteers who can work both days of the tournament. Volunteers will receive coffee and rolls in the morning, lunch, and an official NSAA jacket. Deadline to volunteer is May 10th, 2021.

(North Platte, Nebraska, April 26, 2021) – On May 25th&nbsp;and 26th, the best of Nebraska High School Class D boys’ golfers will compete in North Platte for the state championship title. The event is expected to draw 90-110 golfers to the Lake Maloney Golf Course. Class D is one of the highest-traveling classes, so we can expect many family, friends and well-wishers to come to North Platte to watch the tournament.It will take a small army of volunteers to ensure that these boys have a memorable state championship experience. Helping with a state championship is incredibly rewarding. Just by getting to know these incredible young men, volunteers will find that their hope in the leadership of tomorrow is renewed.One of the highly sought-after volunteer duties is for scoring monitors. These monitors will accompany athletes, personally recording the hole-by-hole strokes of each golfer as well as helping with the speed of play by watching tee shots and looking for lost balls. Scoring monitors do not have to make any rules decisions. At least thirty scoring monitors will be needed throughout the tournament.Other volunteers needed are Official Score Card Keepers, Score Board staff, Spotters, and Real Time Scorers. Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Samantha Geisler at the North Platte / Lincoln County Visitors Bureau at 308-221-6865 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sgeisler@playnorthplatte.com" target="_blank">sgeisler@playnorthplatte.com</a>. You can also apply to be a volunteer online at PLAYNORTHPLATTE.COM.Priority is given to volunteers who can work both days of the tournament. Volunteers will receive coffee and rolls in the morning, lunch, and an official NSAA jacket. Deadline to volunteer is May 10th, 2021.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619442843766.png" alt="Pre-Volunteer AD 2021.png" />
 <figcaption>Pre-Volunteer AD 2021.png</figcaption>
 </figure>

Volunteers sought for Class D Boys State Golf Championship

Area Sports: Track and Field results from Mike Troxel Hershey invite (4/24) 

Area Sports: Boys Track and Field results from Don Bader invite (4/23) 

Area Sports: Girls Track and Field results from Don Bader invite (4/23) 

&nbsp; By STEPHEN WADE and MARI YAMAGUCHI - Associated Press

TOKYO (AP) — Only three months before the postponed Olympics are set to open, Tokyo and Japan’s second largest metropolitan area of Osaka have been placed under emergency orders aimed at stemming surging cases of the coronavirus.

The measures, which take place during Japan’s “golden week” holiday period, are meant to limit travel and keep people out of public places. They are to end on May 11, just ahead of a widely reported visit to Hiroshima by International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach.

Bach said this week that the visit, reported for May 17-18, is still in the “planning phase.” But Bach’s presence was immediately criticized by opposition lawmakers who say the Olympics are being prioritized ahead of public safety.

“Japan should decide its own public health policies. There is no reason we should be told by Mr. Bach what to do,” said Yuichiro Tamaki, the head of the Democratic Party for the People.

Bach said the duration of the state of emergency had nothing to do with his planned visit to the city, where he would greet the Olympic torch relay. Hiroshima was destroyed in 1945 by the American detonation of an atomic bomb over the city, and is a favorite backdrop for visiting politicians and dignitaries.

“This (state of emergency) is absolutely in line with the overall policy of the government,” Bach said. “But it is not related to the Olympic Games. It is related to the golden week.”

Japan’s third state of emergency is to include shutdown orders for bars, department stores, malls, theme parks, as well as theaters and museums. Even restaurants that do not serve alcohol are being asked to close early, as well as public transportation. Schools will stay open, but universities are asked to return to online classes.

“I hope that the situation is going be better as soon as possible,” Seiko Hashimoto, the president of the organizing committee, said Friday in a online briefing.

Japan has attributed about 10,000 deaths to COVID-19, good by global standards but poor by standards in Asia. It has vaccinated less than 1% of the population and has not enforced lockdowns with people becoming impatient and less cooperative as cases have again accelerated.

Hashimoto said several test events would continue during the emergency period, but without fans. The Olympics open on July 23.

She was asked again if there were any plans to cancel the Olympics. The question had disappeared at briefings, but has surfaced again in the last several weeks.

“As the organizing committee, we are not thinking about cancellation,” Hashimoto said.

The IOC gets almost 75% of its income from selling television rights and has seen that cash flow stalled by the postponement. It needs the games to happen, which will be followed in six months by the boycott-threatened Beijing Winter Olympics.

Tokyo is officially spending $15.4 billion to organize the Olympics, with several government audits suggesting the number is much larger.

The IOC and organizers are hoping to muffle more cancellation questions next week by rolling out the second edition of the “Playbooks,” guides that are to explain how the Olympics can be held safely in a pandemic.

The first edition rolled out in February was vague. Next week promises to offer more details and is likely to include requirements that 15,400 Olympic and Paralympic athletes be tested almost daily while in Japan.

The IOC has said vaccinations are not required to participate in the Olympics, but it has encouraged all athletes to be vaccinated.

The Playbooks are not expected to offer a decision on venue capacities, nor if any fans will be allowed at all. Fans from abroad have already been banned.

Hashimoto, who participated in seven Olympics as an athlete and won a bronze medal in speedskating at the 1992 Albertville Games, has been open about her concerns. Between 70-80% of the Japanese public polled say they games should not go on.

“I understand a lot of people are worried and also healthcare workers might be worried,” Hashimoto said. “I think about the feelings of those people — every day I think about this.”

&nbsp; By STEPHEN WADE and MARI YAMAGUCHI - Associated Press TOKYO (AP) — Only three months before the postponed Olympics are set to open, Tokyo and Japan’s second largest metropolitan area of Osaka have been placed under emergency orders aimed at stemming surging cases of the coronavirus.The measures, which take place during Japan’s “golden week” holiday period, are meant to limit travel and keep people out of public places. They are to end on May 11, just ahead of a widely reported visit to Hiroshima by International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach.Bach said this week that the visit, reported for May 17-18, is still in the “planning phase.” But Bach’s presence was immediately criticized by opposition lawmakers who say the Olympics are being prioritized ahead of public safety.“Japan should decide its own public health policies. There is no reason we should be told by Mr. Bach what to do,” said Yuichiro Tamaki, the head of the Democratic Party for the People.Bach said the duration of the state of emergency had nothing to do with his planned visit to the city, where he would greet the Olympic torch relay. Hiroshima was destroyed in 1945 by the American detonation of an atomic bomb over the city, and is a favorite backdrop for visiting politicians and dignitaries.“This (state of emergency) is absolutely in line with the overall policy of the government,” Bach said. “But it is not related to the Olympic Games. It is related to the golden week.”Japan’s third state of emergency is to include shutdown orders for bars, department stores, malls, theme parks, as well as theaters and museums. Even restaurants that do not serve alcohol are being asked to close early, as well as public transportation. Schools will stay open, but universities are asked to return to online classes.“I hope that the situation is going be better as soon as possible,” Seiko Hashimoto, the president of the organizing committee, said Friday in a online briefing.Japan has attributed about 10,000 deaths to COVID-19, good by global standards but poor by standards in Asia. It has vaccinated less than 1% of the population and has not enforced lockdowns with people becoming impatient and less cooperative as cases have again accelerated.Hashimoto said several test events would continue during the emergency period, but without fans. The Olympics open on July 23.She was asked again if there were any plans to cancel the Olympics. The question had disappeared at briefings, but has surfaced again in the last several weeks.“As the organizing committee, we are not thinking about cancellation,” Hashimoto said.The IOC gets almost 75% of its income from selling television rights and has seen that cash flow stalled by the postponement. It needs the games to happen, which will be followed in six months by the boycott-threatened Beijing Winter Olympics.Tokyo is officially spending $15.4 billion to organize the Olympics, with several government audits suggesting the number is much larger.The IOC and organizers are hoping to muffle more cancellation questions next week by rolling out the second edition of the “Playbooks,” guides that are to explain how the Olympics can be held safely in a pandemic.The first edition rolled out in February was vague. Next week promises to offer more details and is likely to include requirements that 15,400 Olympic and Paralympic athletes be tested almost daily while in Japan.The IOC has said vaccinations are not required to participate in the Olympics, but it has encouraged all athletes to be vaccinated.The Playbooks are not expected to offer a decision on venue capacities, nor if any fans will be allowed at all. Fans from abroad have already been banned.Hashimoto, who participated in seven Olympics as an athlete and won a bronze medal in speedskating at the 1992 Albertville Games, has been open about her concerns. Between 70-80% of the Japanese public polled say they games should not go on.“I understand a lot of people are worried and also healthcare workers might be worried,” Hashimoto said. “I think about the feelings of those people — every day I think about this.”

Tokyo under ‘emergency orders’ with Olympics 3 months away

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619177930667.png" alt="4-22 Paxton invite 1" />
 <figcaption>4-22 Paxton invite 1</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619177954427.png" alt="4-22 Paxton invite 2" />
 <figcaption>4-22 Paxton invite 2</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619177974681.png" alt="4-22 Paxton invite 3" />
 <figcaption>4-22 Paxton invite 3</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619177997344.png" alt="4-22 Paxton invite 4" />
 <figcaption>4-22 Paxton invite 4</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619178021140.png" alt="4-22 Paxton invite 5" />
 <figcaption>4-22 Paxton invite 5</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619178042513.png" alt="4-22 Paxton invite 6" />
 <figcaption>4-22 Paxton invite 6</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619178064702.png" alt="4-22 Paxton invite 7" />
 <figcaption>4-22 Paxton invite 7</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619178103965.png" alt="4-22 Paxton invite 8" />
 <figcaption>4-22 Paxton invite 8</figcaption>
 </figure>

Area Sports: Track and Field results from Paxton invite (4/22) 

There are three categories in&nbsp; the Bass Nation Central Regional which wraps up Friday at Milford Lake. On Thursday championship awards and prizes were awarded in one of the divisions, the State Team competition.

Teams from eight states entered the tournament. The group from Texas finished third and received $2,000. New Mexico was second and will get $3,000, and Colorado finished first and receives $5,000. The Kansas team finished sixth.

The other divisions include boaters and co-anglers. The fishing has been tough the last two days to the cold weather. John Stewart, Tournament Director, observed that it was tougher on the fish. "Two weeks ago all the fisherman were saying that the fishing was really good and then this cold front came through. " Stewart added that the anglers are used to the weather and they come prepared. "The fishing could be a little better,"

Stewart, who is from nearby Solomon, KS. called Milford Reservoir a great fishing lake. "We came here hoping we would hit it just right and get some really good catches." Stewart also credited Acorn's Resort and the Geary County Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau with being good hosts, and were also a reason the tournament was brought to Milford Lake.&nbsp;

Top winners in the boater and non-angler divisions move on to the TNT Bass Nation championship. A total of $34,500 in prize money will be given away in the tournament at Milford Lake.

Stewart would like to return to the lake with the tournament again in the future. "Maybe we'll come a month later or something like that."

There are three categories in&nbsp; the Bass Nation Central Regional which wraps up Friday at Milford Lake. On Thursday championship awards and prizes were awarded in one of the divisions, the State Team competition.Teams from eight states entered the tournament. The group from Texas finished third and received $2,000. New Mexico was second and will get $3,000, and Colorado finished first and receives $5,000. The Kansas team finished sixth.The other divisions include boaters and co-anglers. The fishing has been tough the last two days to the cold weather. John Stewart, Tournament Director, observed that it was tougher on the fish. "Two weeks ago all the fisherman were saying that the fishing was really good and then this cold front came through. " Stewart added that the anglers are used to the weather and they come prepared. "The fishing could be a little better,"Stewart, who is from nearby Solomon, KS. called Milford Reservoir a great fishing lake. "We came here hoping we would hit it just right and get some really good catches." Stewart also credited Acorn's Resort and the Geary County Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau with being good hosts, and were also a reason the tournament was brought to Milford Lake.&nbsp;Top winners in the boater and non-angler divisions move on to the TNT Bass Nation championship. A total of $34,500 in prize money will be given away in the tournament at Milford Lake.Stewart would like to return to the lake with the tournament again in the future. "Maybe we'll come a month later or something like that."

Colorado wins state team division in Bass Nation Central Regional

Story by Heather Johnson -&nbsp;Area Public Information Specialist

The North Platte Community College softball team lost its first game of a doubleheader against Hastings College on Wednesday, 5-11, then bounced back with an 11-5 win.

“It shows the grit and heart this team has to win game two after losing game one,” said NPCC head softball coach Janelle Higgins. “Game one, we played well, just got caught watching the game in the fifth and allowed Hastings to get too far ahead.”

The first game started out slow, with Hastings scoring one run in the first inning and another in the third. North Platte waited until the fourth inning to put a run on the board.

It was another three runs for each team in the sixth inning, bringing the score to 5-10.&nbsp;

Nevaeh Ramirez, of Thornton, Colo., was in the pitcher’s circle for the Knights. She lasted all seven innings, allowing 14 hits and 11 runs while striking out eight and walking one.

The Knights racked up eight hits on the day. Madisyn Hamar, of Chadron, and Morganne Brown, of Milliken, Colo., all managed multiple hits. Hamar led the Knights with three hits in three at bats.

The second game was nearly a reversal of the first, with most of the action occurring after the third inning. However, that time the Knights dominated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

North Platte scored a run in the first inning, on an error.

After Hastings scored one run in the top of the third, the Knights answered with one of their own.

Hastings scored when NPCC’s Jordan Young, Johnstown, Colo., induced #18 to hit into a fielder’s choice, but one run scored. The Knights then answered when Young grounded out, scoring one run.

The Knights pulled away for good with four runs in the fourth inning. A sacrifice bunt by Brown scored one run, Las Vegas, Nev. native Essence McRae’s sac fly scored a run, Jace Cundiff, of El Dorado Springs, Mo., singled on a 1-2 count, scoring one run, and Zoey Bredleau-Beehler, Portland, Ore., singled on the first pitch of the at bat, scoring one run.

Young got the start for the Knights. She went seven innings, allowing five runs on nine hits and striking out one.

The Knights collected 11 hits altogether. Hamar, Cundiff and Ashlyn Wheeling, of Thornton, Colo., all collected multiple hits with Hamar and Wheeling each managing three hits to lead the Knights.

“Our youth continues to show as we get comfortable with a close game instead of staying focused,” Higgins said. “We are still trying to find our groove after starting out 26 games on the road, and then Mother Nature has been playing havoc with our schedule. Every time we start to get into rhythm, games get moved or cancelled, and it’s like starting all over again the next week. This team has the talent to make the end of the year fun if we get into rhythm.”

Their next game will be at home against Southeast Community College. They will play a doubleheader beginning at 2 p.m. Friday at the Dowhower Softball Complex.

Story by Heather Johnson -&nbsp;Area Public Information SpecialistThe North Platte Community College softball team lost its first game of a doubleheader against Hastings College on Wednesday, 5-11, then bounced back with an 11-5 win.“It shows the grit and heart this team has to win game two after losing game one,” said NPCC head softball coach Janelle Higgins. “Game one, we played well, just got caught watching the game in the fifth and allowed Hastings to get too far ahead.”The first game started out slow, with Hastings scoring one run in the first inning and another in the third. North Platte waited until the fourth inning to put a run on the board.It was another three runs for each team in the sixth inning, bringing the score to 5-10.&nbsp;Nevaeh Ramirez, of Thornton, Colo., was in the pitcher’s circle for the Knights. She lasted all seven innings, allowing 14 hits and 11 runs while striking out eight and walking one.The Knights racked up eight hits on the day. Madisyn Hamar, of Chadron, and Morganne Brown, of Milliken, Colo., all managed multiple hits. Hamar led the Knights with three hits in three at bats.The second game was nearly a reversal of the first, with most of the action occurring after the third inning. However, that time the Knights dominated.&nbsp;&nbsp;North Platte scored a run in the first inning, on an error.After Hastings scored one run in the top of the third, the Knights answered with one of their own.Hastings scored when NPCC’s Jordan Young, Johnstown, Colo., induced #18 to hit into a fielder’s choice, but one run scored. The Knights then answered when Young grounded out, scoring one run.The Knights pulled away for good with four runs in the fourth inning. A sacrifice bunt by Brown scored one run, Las Vegas, Nev. native Essence McRae’s sac fly scored a run, Jace Cundiff, of El Dorado Springs, Mo., singled on a 1-2 count, scoring one run, and Zoey Bredleau-Beehler, Portland, Ore., singled on the first pitch of the at bat, scoring one run.Young got the start for the Knights. She went seven innings, allowing five runs on nine hits and striking out one.The Knights collected 11 hits altogether. Hamar, Cundiff and Ashlyn Wheeling, of Thornton, Colo., all collected multiple hits with Hamar and Wheeling each managing three hits to lead the Knights.“Our youth continues to show as we get comfortable with a close game instead of staying focused,” Higgins said. “We are still trying to find our groove after starting out 26 games on the road, and then Mother Nature has been playing havoc with our schedule. Every time we start to get into rhythm, games get moved or cancelled, and it’s like starting all over again the next week. This team has the talent to make the end of the year fun if we get into rhythm.”The Knights are now 7-25 on the season.Their next game will be at home against Southeast Community College. They will play a doubleheader beginning at 2 p.m. Friday at the Dowhower Softball Complex.

Knights split games against Hastings

&nbsp; Three Nebraska volleyball players have been&nbsp;named to the American Volleyball Coaches Association All-America Team, the AVCA announced on Wednesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=41724">Lauren Stivrins</a>&nbsp;earned first-team honors,&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=41719">Nicklin Hames</a>&nbsp;earned second-team honors, and&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=41726">Lexi Sun</a>&nbsp;garnered third-team accolades. Additionally,&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=41721">Madi Kubik</a>&nbsp;received honorable mention.&nbsp; The Huskers' three&nbsp;AVCA All-America selections improved their total to 95 all-time, which leads the nation. A nation-leading total of 47 players have combined for the Huskers' 95 awards. The Nebraska volleyball program has had multiple All-Americans six years in a row.&nbsp; Stivrins is a three-time AVCA All-American and a three-time All-Big Ten First-Team selection. She earned All-America first-team accolades for the second time in her Husker career. She becomes the first Husker to earn three AVCA All-America selections since Kadie Rolfzen (2013-16) and the first NU middle blocker to do so since Melissa Elmer (2003-05). Stivrins posted 3.19 kills per set, 1.03 blocks per set and a team-best .468&nbsp;hitting percentage. Stivrins' hitting percentage was the best in the Big Ten and the second-best in school history for a season. The middle blocker from Scottsdale, Ariz., had double-digit kills in 11 of 18 matches played and hit .400 or better 14 times. In her four seasons at Nebraska, Stivrins owns a school-record .396&nbsp;career hitting percentage in the NCAA Tournament. She led the Huskers to a .270 season hitting average and .168 opponent hitting percentage, both of which ranked second in the conference. Hames was named an AVCA All-American for the first time in her career, as she received honorable mention the last two years. The junior setter was an All-Big Ten First-Team and AVCA All-North Region Team selection as well this season. Hames led the Big Ten in assists at 10.91 per set. The Maryville, Tenn., native posted 10 double-doubles in 19 matches, and she served 16 aces. Hames set the Huskers to a .270 hitting percentage, the second-best mark in the Big Ten.&nbsp; Sun earned AVCA All-America honors for the second time in her career.&nbsp;The All-Big Ten First-Team selection&nbsp;led the Huskers in kills with 3.64 per set. She also added 2.21 digs per set with 43 blocks and a team-high 26 aces on the season, and she recorded five double-doubles. Sun, who hit .242 for the season, was a two-time Big Ten Player of the Week during the 11-week regular season. An AVCA third-team All-American in 2019, Sun reached double-digit kills in 15 of 19 matches. She ranked fifth among all Big Ten Players in kills per set and was a unanimous choice to the All-Big Ten First Team. Kubik, a sophomore, received All-America honorable mention for the second straight year. She was the AVCA North Region Freshman of the Year in 2019, and this year she made the All-North Region Team again after putting up 2.83 kills and 2.36 digs per set with 25 blocks and 13 aces. A six-rotation hitter for the Big Red, Kubik posted double-doubles in six matches and had 11 matches with at least 10 kills. In the NCAA Regional Final against Texas on Monday, Kubik tied her season high with&nbsp;15 kills.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic Communications&nbsp; Three Nebraska volleyball players have been&nbsp;named to the American Volleyball Coaches Association All-America Team, the AVCA announced on Wednesday.&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=41724">Lauren Stivrins</a>&nbsp;earned first-team honors,&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=41719">Nicklin Hames</a>&nbsp;earned second-team honors, and&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=41726">Lexi Sun</a>&nbsp;garnered third-team accolades. Additionally,&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=41721">Madi Kubik</a>&nbsp;received honorable mention.&nbsp; The Huskers' three&nbsp;AVCA All-America selections improved their total to 95 all-time, which leads the nation. A nation-leading total of 47 players have combined for the Huskers' 95 awards. The Nebraska volleyball program has had multiple All-Americans six years in a row.&nbsp; Stivrins is a three-time AVCA All-American and a three-time All-Big Ten First-Team selection. She earned All-America first-team accolades for the second time in her Husker career. She becomes the first Husker to earn three AVCA All-America selections since Kadie Rolfzen (2013-16) and the first NU middle blocker to do so since Melissa Elmer (2003-05). Stivrins posted 3.19 kills per set, 1.03 blocks per set and a team-best .468&nbsp;hitting percentage. Stivrins' hitting percentage was the best in the Big Ten and the second-best in school history for a season. The middle blocker from Scottsdale, Ariz., had double-digit kills in 11 of 18 matches played and hit .400 or better 14 times. In her four seasons at Nebraska, Stivrins owns a school-record .396&nbsp;career hitting percentage in the NCAA Tournament. She led the Huskers to a .270 season hitting average and .168 opponent hitting percentage, both of which ranked second in the conference. Hames was named an AVCA All-American for the first time in her career, as she received honorable mention the last two years. The junior setter was an All-Big Ten First-Team and AVCA All-North Region Team selection as well this season. Hames led the Big Ten in assists at 10.91 per set. The Maryville, Tenn., native posted 10 double-doubles in 19 matches, and she served 16 aces. Hames set the Huskers to a .270 hitting percentage, the second-best mark in the Big Ten.&nbsp; Sun earned AVCA All-America honors for the second time in her career.&nbsp;The All-Big Ten First-Team selection&nbsp;led the Huskers in kills with 3.64 per set. She also added 2.21 digs per set with 43 blocks and a team-high 26 aces on the season, and she recorded five double-doubles. Sun, who hit .242 for the season, was a two-time Big Ten Player of the Week during the 11-week regular season. An AVCA third-team All-American in 2019, Sun reached double-digit kills in 15 of 19 matches. She ranked fifth among all Big Ten Players in kills per set and was a unanimous choice to the All-Big Ten First Team. Kubik, a sophomore, received All-America honorable mention for the second straight year. She was the AVCA North Region Freshman of the Year in 2019, and this year she made the All-North Region Team again after putting up 2.83 kills and 2.36 digs per set with 25 blocks and 13 aces. A six-rotation hitter for the Big Red, Kubik posted double-doubles in six matches and had 11 matches with at least 10 kills. In the NCAA Regional Final against Texas on Monday, Kubik tied her season high with&nbsp;15 kills.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Three Huskers Named AVCA All-Americans

Area Sports: Track and Field results from Chase County invite (4/21)

Area Sports: Track and Field results from Hitchcock invite (4/21) 

&nbsp; By STEPHEN WADE - Associated Press

TOKYO (AP) — Japanese residents with tickets to the Tokyo Olympics may not know until weeks before the games open if they’ll be allowed to attend.

Fans from abroad have already been barred, and on Wednesday organizing committee president Seiko Hashimoto said a decision on venue capacity — or if there will be any fans at all, or just empty venues — may not be made until June. She had previously promised that decision for this month.

“We are still studying the timing,” Hashimoto said at a news conference in Tokyo after she and CEO Toshiro Muto finished an online, closed-door briefing with the IOC executive board in Switzerland.

She confirmed that June “was an option. I guess we need a little more time to make a proper judgment.”

Government minister Taro Kano, who is in charge of the vaccine rollout in Japan, hinted last week that empty venues seemed likely as COVID-19 surges across Japan.

Hashimoto’s backpedaling is typical of the ever-changing planning as virus cases rise in Japan with Tokyo’s postponed Olympics set to open in three months in the midst of a pandemic.

Hashimoto acknowledged the low public support in Japan for going ahead with the Olympics, particularly since less than 1% of the population has been vaccinated. Polls repeatedly show 70-80% are opposed to going ahead with the games.

“In local municipalities the situations are rather dire,” Hashimoto said. “And in this context, Japanese citizens and residents have worries and concerns. I know that. ... For the safety and security of the games, we must contain the spread of the virus as soon as possible.”

Many of the worries now center around the torch relay.

A leg of the relay on Wednesday was moved off the public streets in Matsuyama City in the prefecture of Ehime. It was to take place in a city park with “no spectators or stage performances,” an organizing committee statement said.

This followed the torch being detoured last week in Osaka — Japan’s second largest metropolitan area — and run only in a city park.

Some legs of the relay will also be taken off the public streets on May 1-2 on Japan’s southern island of Okinawa.

The torch relay will feature a total of 10,000 runners crisscrossing Japan until it arrives on July 23 at the opening ceremony in Tokyo. The relay began on March 25 in northeastern Japan and, though it has run with few incidents, organizers have cautioned that it may need to be rerouted as conditions change.

Osaka and Tokyo were expected to come under new emergency orders this week. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike has said measures needed to be taken “as soon as possible” to stem the spread. And Hashimoto acknowledged they were likely to come quickly into force.

Japan has attributed more than 9,600 deaths to COVID-19, good by global standards but poor by standards in Asia.

“If the coronavirus infection keeps getting worse, it’s no time to be holding the Olympics,” Kotaro Nagasaki, the governor of Yamanashi prefecture, said this week.

Yamanashi is located southwest of Tokyo and is the home of the famous Mt. Fuji.

Some Tokyo test events are also being postponed or rescheduled. Many that are going forward are being held without athletes — so-called operational events — or with only Japanese athletes.

A qualifying event from artistic swimming in Tokyo that was first scheduled for earlier in the year, and then pushed back to early May, will now be held outside of Japan in June, swimming governing body FINA said in a statement.

It had to be moved partially because a FINA diving event is to take place in Tokyo on May 1-6 at the new Olympic swimming venue. It is to be held without fans, and will feature divers from abroad.

Olympic Minister Tamayo Marukawa last week said that all athletes might need to be tested daily during the Olympics. Japan’s Kyodo news agency on Tuesday reported that daily saliva tests for Olympic and Paralympic athletes are being planned, quoting “officials with knowledge of the planning.”

Hashimoto confirmed that “in principle, testing will be daily.” Early plans had called for tests every four days.

This change is likely to appear in the second edition of the “Playbook,” which is to be published by the end of the month. These guides are put out by the IOC and so far have set out vague rules for 15,400 Olympic and Paralympic athletes and tens of thousands of others — judges, officials, media and broadcasters — when they enter Japan.

A final edition of Playbook is to be published in June.

So far, Japanese athletes have not been vaccinated and officials repeatedly say there is no plan to do so. There is sure to be strong public opposition to any plan to push young athletes ahead of the elderly, medical workers and other vulnerable communities.

&nbsp; By STEPHEN WADE - Associated Press TOKYO (AP) — Japanese residents with tickets to the Tokyo Olympics may not know until weeks before the games open if they’ll be allowed to attend.Fans from abroad have already been barred, and on Wednesday organizing committee president Seiko Hashimoto said a decision on venue capacity — or if there will be any fans at all, or just empty venues — may not be made until June. She had previously promised that decision for this month.“We are still studying the timing,” Hashimoto said at a news conference in Tokyo after she and CEO Toshiro Muto finished an online, closed-door briefing with the IOC executive board in Switzerland.She confirmed that June “was an option. I guess we need a little more time to make a proper judgment.”Government minister Taro Kano, who is in charge of the vaccine rollout in Japan, hinted last week that empty venues seemed likely as COVID-19 surges across Japan.Hashimoto’s backpedaling is typical of the ever-changing planning as virus cases rise in Japan with Tokyo’s postponed Olympics set to open in three months in the midst of a pandemic.Hashimoto acknowledged the low public support in Japan for going ahead with the Olympics, particularly since less than 1% of the population has been vaccinated. Polls repeatedly show 70-80% are opposed to going ahead with the games.“In local municipalities the situations are rather dire,” Hashimoto said. “And in this context, Japanese citizens and residents have worries and concerns. I know that. ... For the safety and security of the games, we must contain the spread of the virus as soon as possible.”Many of the worries now center around the torch relay.A leg of the relay on Wednesday was moved off the public streets in Matsuyama City in the prefecture of Ehime. It was to take place in a city park with “no spectators or stage performances,” an organizing committee statement said.This followed the torch being detoured last week in Osaka — Japan’s second largest metropolitan area — and run only in a city park.Some legs of the relay will also be taken off the public streets on May 1-2 on Japan’s southern island of Okinawa.The torch relay will feature a total of 10,000 runners crisscrossing Japan until it arrives on July 23 at the opening ceremony in Tokyo. The relay began on March 25 in northeastern Japan and, though it has run with few incidents, organizers have cautioned that it may need to be rerouted as conditions change.Osaka and Tokyo were expected to come under new emergency orders this week. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike has said measures needed to be taken “as soon as possible” to stem the spread. And Hashimoto acknowledged they were likely to come quickly into force.Japan has attributed more than 9,600 deaths to COVID-19, good by global standards but poor by standards in Asia.“If the coronavirus infection keeps getting worse, it’s no time to be holding the Olympics,” Kotaro Nagasaki, the governor of Yamanashi prefecture, said this week.Yamanashi is located southwest of Tokyo and is the home of the famous Mt. Fuji.Some Tokyo test events are also being postponed or rescheduled. Many that are going forward are being held without athletes — so-called operational events — or with only Japanese athletes.A qualifying event from artistic swimming in Tokyo that was first scheduled for earlier in the year, and then pushed back to early May, will now be held outside of Japan in June, swimming governing body FINA said in a statement.It had to be moved partially because a FINA diving event is to take place in Tokyo on May 1-6 at the new Olympic swimming venue. It is to be held without fans, and will feature divers from abroad.Olympic Minister Tamayo Marukawa last week said that all athletes might need to be tested daily during the Olympics. Japan’s Kyodo news agency on Tuesday reported that daily saliva tests for Olympic and Paralympic athletes are being planned, quoting “officials with knowledge of the planning.”Hashimoto confirmed that “in principle, testing will be daily.” Early plans had called for tests every four days.This change is likely to appear in the second edition of the “Playbook,” which is to be published by the end of the month. These guides are put out by the IOC and so far have set out vague rules for 15,400 Olympic and Paralympic athletes and tens of thousands of others — judges, officials, media and broadcasters — when they enter Japan.A final edition of Playbook is to be published in June.So far, Japanese athletes have not been vaccinated and officials repeatedly say there is no plan to do so. There is sure to be strong public opposition to any plan to push young athletes ahead of the elderly, medical workers and other vulnerable communities.

Tokyo Games delay decision until June on fans -- or no fans

Maxwell Public Schools would like to announce the hiring of its next head football coach.&nbsp; Eamonn Feeney has been hired to replace Ryan Jones as head football coach of the wildcats. Eamonn is a graduate of Maxwell High School in 2008.&nbsp; He played college football at Doane University and graduated from there in 2012.&nbsp; Mr. Feeney has been a teacher and coach at Minden, Wilber-Clatonia, and most recently at Sidney high school.&nbsp; 

“Eamonn will bring passion and hard work to a place that he knows a lot about.&nbsp; He is very knowledgeable about the game of football and our student-athletes will love playing for him.&nbsp; Coach Feeney is a relationship builder and knows what successful football looks like.”&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

 Mr. Feeney and his wife Hope have been hired to teach at Maxwell Public Schools.&nbsp; 

“Our administration is excited to add both Mr. and Mrs. Feeney to our wonderful staff here at Maxwell.&nbsp; We foresee them both being here for many years to come.”&nbsp; 

Coach Feeney had this to say, “I am extremely excited to be announced as the head football coach at Maxwell High School. To take over the program that I grew up respecting, watching and eventually playing for is a huge honor. I’d like to thank Coach Jones and the administration at Maxwell for trusting me with this opportunity and I can’t wait to get started. Go Wildcats!”

From Activities Director Ryan JonesMaxwell Public Schools would like to announce the hiring of its next head football coach.&nbsp; Eamonn Feeney has been hired to replace Ryan Jones as head football coach of the wildcats. Eamonn is a graduate of Maxwell High School in 2008.&nbsp; He played college football at Doane University and graduated from there in 2012.&nbsp; Mr. Feeney has been a teacher and coach at Minden, Wilber-Clatonia, and most recently at Sidney high school.&nbsp; “Eamonn will bring passion and hard work to a place that he knows a lot about.&nbsp; He is very knowledgeable about the game of football and our student-athletes will love playing for him.&nbsp; Coach Feeney is a relationship builder and knows what successful football looks like.”&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Mr. Feeney and his wife Hope have been hired to teach at Maxwell Public Schools.&nbsp; “Our administration is excited to add both Mr. and Mrs. Feeney to our wonderful staff here at Maxwell.&nbsp; We foresee them both being here for many years to come.”&nbsp; Coach Feeney had this to say, “I am extremely excited to be announced as the head football coach at Maxwell High School. To take over the program that I grew up respecting, watching and eventually playing for is a huge honor. I’d like to thank Coach Jones and the administration at Maxwell for trusting me with this opportunity and I can’t wait to get started. Go Wildcats!”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619017507848.jpeg" alt="Eamonn Feeney.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Eamonn Feeney.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

Maxwell hires new Football coach

Story by NU Athletic Communications

The Big Ten Network will televise Nebraska's May 1 Red-White Spring Game presented by FNBO. Kickoff at Memorial Stadium is set for shortly after 1 p.m.(CT). The game can also be heard on the Learfield/IMG College Husker Sports Network with coverage beginning at 11 a.m.

Mobile tickets remain on sale at Huskers.com/tickets for the spring game.

Capacity at Memorial Stadium for the spring game is capped at 50 percent and ticket sales were approaching 30,000 as of Tuesday morning.

Fans may now purchase up to 10 tickets for the spring game, an increase from the earlier limit of four tickets per customer.

Husker fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance of game day. If tickets remain on the day of the Red-White game, prices will increase to $15 in the main seating bowl and $25 for club seats.

Fans are reminded they are required to wear a face covering in Memorial Stadium for the Red-White Spring Game presented by FNBO. Regular stadium policies will be in place, including Nebraska's Clear Bag Policy, and concessions will be available throughout Memorial Stadium.

Additional information on the Red-White Spring Game can be found at Huskers.com/gameday. 

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Big Ten Network will televise Nebraska's May 1 Red-White Spring Game presented by FNBO. Kickoff at Memorial Stadium is set for shortly after 1 p.m.(CT). The game can also be heard on the Learfield/IMG College Husker Sports Network with coverage beginning at 11 a.m.Mobile tickets remain on sale at Huskers.com/tickets for the spring game.Capacity at Memorial Stadium for the spring game is capped at 50 percent and ticket sales were approaching 30,000 as of Tuesday morning.Fans may now purchase up to 10 tickets for the spring game, an increase from the earlier limit of four tickets per customer.Tickets are $10 each.Husker fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance of game day. If tickets remain on the day of the Red-White game, prices will increase to $15 in the main seating bowl and $25 for club seats.Fans are reminded they are required to wear a face covering in Memorial Stadium for the Red-White Spring Game presented by FNBO. Regular stadium policies will be in place, including Nebraska's Clear Bag Policy, and concessions will be available throughout Memorial Stadium.Additional information on the Red-White Spring Game can be found at Huskers.com/gameday.

Big Ten Network to Televise Nebraska Spring Game

It was a snowy rainy mess on Tuesday (4/20) but that didn't stop the girls from taking the court in North Platte in a triangular meet against Holdrege and McCook.&nbsp;

On the day North Platte tallied a 5-4 win over Holdrege getting three singles and two doubles wins. McCook beats the Dawgs 0-9.

Below are the results including the JV results on the day as well.&nbsp;

It was a snowy rainy mess on Tuesday (4/20) but that didn't stop the girls from taking the court in North Platte in a triangular meet against Holdrege and McCook.&nbsp;On the day North Platte tallied a 5-4 win over Holdrege getting three singles and two doubles wins. McCook beats the Dawgs 0-9.Below are the results including the JV results on the day as well.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619011638777.jpeg" alt="4-20 NPHS girls tennis vs Holdrege" />
 <figcaption>4-20 NPHS girls tennis vs Holdrege</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619011606421.jpeg" alt="4-20 NPHS girls tennis vs McCook Varsity" />
 <figcaption>4-20 NPHS girls tennis vs McCook Varsity</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619011560598.jpeg" alt="4-20 NPHS girls tennis vs McCook JV" />
 <figcaption>4-20 NPHS girls tennis vs McCook JV</figcaption>
 </figure>

NPHS Tennis: NPHS goes 1-1 against Holdrege and McCook

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (AP) — Youngstown State football has been placed on probation for two years and hit with recruiting sanctions by the NCAA. 

The school and the NCAA agreed several rules violations were committed under former head coach Bo Pelini. 

The school agreed it failed to monitor its football program when it permitted three football staff members to recruit off-campus without completing the coaches' certification test for the 2019-20 academic year. 

Pelini left Youngstown State in 2019 for LSU, where he was defensive coordinator. He left that program last December.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587379293613.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (AP) — Youngstown State football has been placed on probation for two years and hit with recruiting sanctions by the NCAA. The school and the NCAA agreed several rules violations were committed under former head coach Bo Pelini. The school agreed it failed to monitor its football program when it permitted three football staff members to recruit off-campus without completing the coaches' certification test for the 2019-20 academic year. Pelini left Youngstown State in 2019 for LSU, where he was defensive coordinator. He left that program last December.

NCAA, Youngstown State agree to violations under Bo Pelini

Area youth will have the opportunity to hone their volleyball skills this summer through three camps offered by the North Platte Community College Knights Volleyball Team.

The Knights will host high school team camps June 28-29 and July 12-13. Three divisions will be available to pick from: varsity, junior varsity and reserve. The cost is $40 per player, which includes a t-shirt.

Junior sports camps are planned for June 30-July 2 for girls entering third through fifth grades and July 14-16 for girls entering sixth through eighth grades. The camps will consist of a combination of volleyball and basketball instruction.

The volleyball portion will be from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day, and basketball will be from 1:30-4 p.m. each day. The fee is $50 per sport or $70 for both. T-shirts will be included.

The Knights will also offer position camps July 19 for liberos, July 20 for setters and July 21 for hitters. Those camps are open to girls entering seventh through 12th grades. Each session is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost is $60, which includes a t-shirt.

“We are excited to announce these dates,” said NPCC head volleyball coach Alexa McCall. “Summer camps are one of our favorite things to do, and we are excited to have campers in the gym this summer learning from our current Knights players.”

Questions about the camps can be directed to McCall at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mccalla@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">mccalla@mpcc.edu</a>. Sign-up forms are available on the back of the camp brochures, which are posted under the “camps” section on the college’s athletic website,&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/" target="_blank">npccknights.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614021426391.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Heather Johnson-MPCCArea youth will have the opportunity to hone their volleyball skills this summer through three camps offered by the North Platte Community College Knights Volleyball Team.Team CampsThe Knights will host high school team camps June 28-29 and July 12-13. Three divisions will be available to pick from: varsity, junior varsity and reserve. The cost is $40 per player, which includes a t-shirt.Junior Sports CampsJunior sports camps are planned for June 30-July 2 for girls entering third through fifth grades and July 14-16 for girls entering sixth through eighth grades. The camps will consist of a combination of volleyball and basketball instruction.The volleyball portion will be from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day, and basketball will be from 1:30-4 p.m. each day. The fee is $50 per sport or $70 for both. T-shirts will be included.Position CampThe Knights will also offer position camps July 19 for liberos, July 20 for setters and July 21 for hitters. Those camps are open to girls entering seventh through 12th grades. Each session is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost is $60, which includes a t-shirt.“We are excited to announce these dates,” said NPCC head volleyball coach Alexa McCall. “Summer camps are one of our favorite things to do, and we are excited to have campers in the gym this summer learning from our current Knights players.”Questions about the camps can be directed to McCall at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mccalla@mpcc.edu" target="_blank">mccalla@mpcc.edu</a>. Sign-up forms are available on the back of the camp brochures, which are posted under the “camps” section on the college’s athletic website,&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/" target="_blank">npccknights.com</a>.