Story by NU Athletic Communications&nbsp;

With summer collegiate baseball leagues coming to an end, Nebraska baseball was well represented in various leagues around the country.

Below is a recap of how each Husker fared in their summer league action.

ReturnersEvan Borst – Coastal Plain League (Macon Bacon)Appeared in six games, making five starts. • Went 1-0 with a 3.04 ERA. • Totaled 14 strikeouts in 20.2 innings. • Pitched a season-high five innings in two outings. • Allowed just two earned runs over the final 15.2 innings. • Tallied three outings with at least three strikeouts, including a season-high five strikeouts.

Max Buettenback – Northwoods League (Willmar Stingers)Earned all-star and postseason all-star recognition while leading the Stingers to the playoffs. • Ranked among the league leaders throughout the summer, finishing third in hitting (.395) and OPS (1.109), fourth in RBI (62), on-base percentage (.504) and slugging percentage (.605), sixth in hits (81), tied for seventh in stolen bases (30) and tied for ninth with nine homers. • Added 14 doubles, a triple and 49 runs in 53 regular-season games. • Ended the summer on a 17-game hit streak while recording 26 multi-hit performances. • Posted eight games with more than two hits, including four three-hit contests and a quartet of four-hit games. • Drove in two-plus RBI in 19 games and had three games with at least four RBI, including a season-high six RBI.

Dylan Carey – Cape Cod League (Falmouth Commodores)Played in 27 games for the Commodores. • Hit .304 at the plate with five doubles, a homer and 13 RBI. • Scored 16 runs and stole six bases. • Posted a .383 on-base percentage and an OPS of .774.

Grant Cleavinger – West Coast League (Corvallis Knights)Appeared in eight games, making a pair of starts. • Went 0-2 with a 6.75 ERA. • Recorded 18 punchouts in 9.1 innings of work. • Compiled a 1.82 WHIP and held opposing batters to a .188 hitting clip. • Posted six outings of at least an inning, including a season-high three-inning appearance. • Had four appearances with three-plus strikeouts, along with a season-high five strikeouts.

Trey Frahm – Coastal Plain League (Holly Springs Salamanders)Made six relief appearances for the Salamanders. • Went 0-1 with a save and a 4.26 ERA. • Totaled nine strikeouts in 6.1 innings. • Posted a 1.42 WHIP and limited opponents to a .190 batting average. • Had a strikeout in every outing, including two multi-strikeout games and a season-high three punchouts. • Pitched at least one inning in final five outings while tossing a season-high 1.2 innings.

Ryan Harrahill – Alaska Baseball League (Matsu Miners)Appeared in 12 games, making two starts. • Went 4-1 with a save and a 3.09 ERA. • Tallied 23 strikeouts in 23.1 innings. • Totaled a 1.11 WHIP and held opposing batters to a .190 batting average. • Recorded four outings of three-plus innings, with a season-high four innings in a relief appearance. • Didn’t allow an earned run over the final eight outings, totaling 12 consecutive innings without an earned run allowed. • Struck out three batters in three appearances and had a season-high four strikeouts in a three-inning save.

Ty Horn – West Coast League (Corvallis Knights)Earned all-star recognition while helping the Knights to a league-best 41-13 overall record. • Made nine appearances, making seven starts. • Went 1-0 with a save and a 2.20 ERA. • Totaled 39 strikeouts in 32.2 innings of work. • Had eight appearances with at least four innings, including a season-high five innings in two outings. • Posted four-plus punchouts in seven outings, along with a season-high seven strikeouts in a four-inning start. • Never allowed more than one earned run in eight consecutive appearances, totaling 28.2 innings.

Carson Jasa – California Collegiate League (Walnut Creek Crawdads)Earned All-Division honors and appeared in the California Collegiate Showcase Game. • Made eight starts for the Crawdads. • Went 4-1 with a 4.08 ERA. • Recorded 52 strikeouts in 39.2 innings of action. • Pitched at least four innings in every outing, including a season-high seven-inning start. • Struck out a minimum of five batters in each start, along with five appearances of seven-plus strikeouts. • Struck out a season-high nine batters in a five-inning appearance.

Will Jesske – Kernels Collegiate League (Normal Cornbelters)Appeared in 40 games for the Cornbelters, hitting .320 at the plate. • Totaled 12 doubles, two triples and three homers. • Drove in 33 runs and scored 36 times. • Posted a .401 on-base percentage and .487 slugging percentage. • Compiled 15 multi-hit performances, including seven three-hit games and a four-hit contest. • Had at least two RBI in seven games, including a pair of three-RBI performances and two four-RBI contests.

Hayden Lewis – Northwoods League (Willmar Stingers)Appeared in 26 games, helping the Stingers to the playoffs. • Hit .266 with five doubles, a triple and three homers. • Drove in 16 RBI and scored 17 runs. • Tallied six stolen bases. • Posted a .358 on-base percentage and an OPS of .794. • Recorded 10 multi-hit performances, including one three-hit game. • Had three games of at least two RBI, along with a season-high three RBI.

Joshua Overbeek – Mid America League (Abilene Flying Bison)Played in 38 games for the Flying Bison. • Hit .340 at the plate with 10 doubles, two triples and six home runs. • Tallied 47 RBI and 40 runs. • Posted a .412 on-base percentage and .545 slugging percentage. • Recorded 13 stolen bases. • Compiled 17 multi-hit games, including six three-hit contests and a four-hit performance. • Drove in at least two runs in 13 games, along with seven three-RBI contests and season-high six-RBI outing.

Case Sanderson – Northwoods League (La Crosse Loggers)Earned all-star and postseason all-star honors while leading the Loggers to the Northwoods League Championship game. • Ranked among the league leaders throughout the summer, finishing second in on-base percentage (.505), fifth in hitting (.359) and OPS (1.049) and tied for eighth with 51 RBI. • Became the first player in organization history to have a three-homer game after going 3-for-4 with three home runs and seven RBI on July 30. • Tallied 13 doubles and six homers. • Scored 48 runs and stole five bases. • Posted 18 multi-hit games in the 46-game span, including seven three-hit contests and a season-high four hits once. • Drove in at least two runs in 14 games, along with six performances with three-plus RBI, including a season-high seven RBI. • Accounted for three-plus runs in 17 games for the Loggers.

Rhett Stokes – Northwoods League (Willmar Stingers)Played in 23 games for the Stingers in the summer. • Hit .372 at the plate with six doubles and a home run. • Tallied 15 RBI and scored 26 runs. • Had nine stolen bases in 10 attempts. • Posted a .431 on-base percentage and an OPS of .899. • Compiled 11 multi-hit performances, including six games with three hits. • Drove in at least two runs in four games, along with a season-high three RBI.

Gabe Swansen - Northwoods League (Willmar Stingers)Saw action in 18 games for the Stingers. • Hit .333 at the plate with five doubles and a home run. • Totaled 13 RBI and 16 runs. • Posted a .402 on-base percentage and an OPS of .842. • Finished play on a 10-game hit streak. • Had at least two hits in eight of the 18 games, including a pair of three-hit performances. • Tallied two RBI in four contests.

Tucker Timmerman – Alaska Baseball League (Matsu Miners)Appeared in eight games, making six starts for the Miners. • Went 3-1 with a 0.27 ERA. • Totaled 29 punchouts in 33 innings. • Compiled a .91 WHIP and held opponents to a .193 hitting clip. • Allowed just one earned run all summer, finishing the season on a 29-inning scoreless streak. • Last at least five innings in five of six starts, including a season-high seven-inning start. • Surrendered four hits or less in four starts. • Reached five strikeouts in three starts, along with a season-high eight strikeouts.

NewcomersKayden Anderson – Independence League (Fremont Moo)Played in 11 games for the Moo. • Hit .326 with four doubles. • Tallied 10 RBI and scored 12 runs. • Stole four bases in five attempts. • Posted a .473 on-base percentage and an OPS of .891. • Recorded four multi-hit games, including one three-hit contest. • Drove in a run in eight games, along with a season-high three RBI.

Pryce Bender – Jayhawk Collegiate League (Haysville Aviators)Saw action in 16 games as a two-way player for the Aviators. • Hit .241 at the plate with two doubles, a triple and a home run. • Drove in nine runs and scored 18 times. • Had five stolen bases in five attempts. • Made three appearances on the mound, making two starts. • Went 2-0 with a 3.55 ERA. • Totaled 11 strikeouts in 12.2 innings. • All three outings went at least three innings, including a season-high 5.2-inning start. • Recorded two appearances with four-plus punchouts, along with a season-high five strikeouts.

Robbie Bolin – Team USA/Cape Cod League (Falmouth Commodores)Represented Team USA at the historic Honkbalweek Haarlem and saw limited action with the Commodores in the Cape Cod League to end the summer. • Earned recognition as the best hitter of the tournament after leading Team USA in hitting. • Hit .391 with nine hits and an RBI. • Scored six runs and stole a tournament-high five bases. • Tallied four hits and scored four runs in a nine-game stint with the Commodores. • Drew six walks and stole five bases in five attempts.

Luke Broderick – Team USARepresented Team USA at the historic Honkbalweek Haarlem. • Appeared in one game for the Stars and Stripes, making a 3.1-inning relief appearance. • Allowed just three hits and didn’t surrender a run. • Compiled six punchouts and a pair of walks.

TJ Coats – KC Collegiate Baseball League (Precision Baseball KC)Played in 16 games with Precision Baseball KC. • Hit .447 with seven doubles and four home runs. • Drove in 17 runs and scored 17 times. • Totaled 21 hits in 47 at-bats. • Posted a .552 on-base percentage and an OPS of 1.403. • Drew eight walks and stole one base in two attempts.

Jaron Cotton – Northwoods League (Bismarck Larks)Saw action in 34 games with the Larks. • Hit .213 with six doubles and a triple. • Drove in 17 runs and scored 25 times. • Posted a .385 on-base percentage and an OPS of .688. • Stole seven bases in seven attempts. • Had five multi-hit performances, including a season-high three hits. • Drew 21 walks on the season and tallied 14 games with an RBI, along with a season-high three RBI.

Cooper Markle – Mid America League (Abilene Flying Bison)Played in 32 games for the Flying Bison. • Hit .278 at the plate with 10 doubles, a triple and three home runs. • Tallied 28 RBI and 29 runs. • Posted a .383 on-base percentage. • Compiled seven multi-hit games, including one three-hit performance and a four-hit contest. • Drove in at least two runs in eight games, along with four three-RBI contests.

Kanon Sundgren – Northwoods League (La Crosse Loggers)Helped the Loggers advance to the Northwoods League Championship game. • Hit .307 with four doubles and a home run in 19 games. • Drove in 16 runs and scored 13 times. • Stole two bases in two attempts. • Posted a .400 on-base percentage and an OPS of .800. • Totaled five multi-hit games, including a pair of three-hit games and a four-hit performance. • Posted 12 games with an RBI, along with three multi-RBI contests. • Concluded action with the Loggers on a five-game hit streak.

Story by NU Athletic Communications&nbsp;With summer collegiate baseball leagues coming to an end, Nebraska baseball was well represented in various leagues around the country.Below is a recap of how each Husker fared in their summer league action.ReturnersEvan Borst – Coastal Plain League (Macon Bacon)Appeared in six games, making five starts. • Went 1-0 with a 3.04 ERA. • Totaled 14 strikeouts in 20.2 innings. • Pitched a season-high five innings in two outings. • Allowed just two earned runs over the final 15.2 innings. • Tallied three outings with at least three strikeouts, including a season-high five strikeouts.Max Buettenback – Northwoods League (Willmar Stingers)Earned all-star and postseason all-star recognition while leading the Stingers to the playoffs. • Ranked among the league leaders throughout the summer, finishing third in hitting (.395) and OPS (1.109), fourth in RBI (62), on-base percentage (.504) and slugging percentage (.605), sixth in hits (81), tied for seventh in stolen bases (30) and tied for ninth with nine homers. • Added 14 doubles, a triple and 49 runs in 53 regular-season games. • Ended the summer on a 17-game hit streak while recording 26 multi-hit performances. • Posted eight games with more than two hits, including four three-hit contests and a quartet of four-hit games. • Drove in two-plus RBI in 19 games and had three games with at least four RBI, including a season-high six RBI.Dylan Carey – Cape Cod League (Falmouth Commodores)Played in 27 games for the Commodores. • Hit .304 at the plate with five doubles, a homer and 13 RBI. • Scored 16 runs and stole six bases. • Posted a .383 on-base percentage and an OPS of .774.Grant Cleavinger – West Coast League (Corvallis Knights)Appeared in eight games, making a pair of starts. • Went 0-2 with a 6.75 ERA. • Recorded 18 punchouts in 9.1 innings of work. • Compiled a 1.82 WHIP and held opposing batters to a .188 hitting clip. • Posted six outings of at least an inning, including a season-high three-inning appearance. • Had four appearances with three-plus strikeouts, along with a season-high five strikeouts.Trey Frahm – Coastal Plain League (Holly Springs Salamanders)Made six relief appearances for the Salamanders. • Went 0-1 with a save and a 4.26 ERA. • Totaled nine strikeouts in 6.1 innings. • Posted a 1.42 WHIP and limited opponents to a .190 batting average. • Had a strikeout in every outing, including two multi-strikeout games and a season-high three punchouts. • Pitched at least one inning in final five outings while tossing a season-high 1.2 innings.Ryan Harrahill – Alaska Baseball League (Matsu Miners)Appeared in 12 games, making two starts. • Went 4-1 with a save and a 3.09 ERA. • Tallied 23 strikeouts in 23.1 innings. • Totaled a 1.11 WHIP and held opposing batters to a .190 batting average. • Recorded four outings of three-plus innings, with a season-high four innings in a relief appearance. • Didn’t allow an earned run over the final eight outings, totaling 12 consecutive innings without an earned run allowed. • Struck out three batters in three appearances and had a season-high four strikeouts in a three-inning save.Ty Horn – West Coast League (Corvallis Knights)Earned all-star recognition while helping the Knights to a league-best 41-13 overall record. • Made nine appearances, making seven starts. • Went 1-0 with a save and a 2.20 ERA. • Totaled 39 strikeouts in 32.2 innings of work. • Had eight appearances with at least four innings, including a season-high five innings in two outings. • Posted four-plus punchouts in seven outings, along with a season-high seven strikeouts in a four-inning start. • Never allowed more than one earned run in eight consecutive appearances, totaling 28.2 innings.Carson Jasa – California Collegiate League (Walnut Creek Crawdads)Earned All-Division honors and appeared in the California Collegiate Showcase Game. • Made eight starts for the Crawdads. • Went 4-1 with a 4.08 ERA. • Recorded 52 strikeouts in 39.2 innings of action. • Pitched at least four innings in every outing, including a season-high seven-inning start. • Struck out a minimum of five batters in each start, along with five appearances of seven-plus strikeouts. • Struck out a season-high nine batters in a five-inning appearance.Will Jesske – Kernels Collegiate League (Normal Cornbelters)Appeared in 40 games for the Cornbelters, hitting .320 at the plate. • Totaled 12 doubles, two triples and three homers. • Drove in 33 runs and scored 36 times. • Posted a .401 on-base percentage and .487 slugging percentage. • Compiled 15 multi-hit performances, including seven three-hit games and a four-hit contest. • Had at least two RBI in seven games, including a pair of three-RBI performances and two four-RBI contests.Hayden Lewis – Northwoods League (Willmar Stingers)Appeared in 26 games, helping the Stingers to the playoffs. • Hit .266 with five doubles, a triple and three homers. • Drove in 16 RBI and scored 17 runs. • Tallied six stolen bases. • Posted a .358 on-base percentage and an OPS of .794. • Recorded 10 multi-hit performances, including one three-hit game. • Had three games of at least two RBI, along with a season-high three RBI.Joshua Overbeek – Mid America League (Abilene Flying Bison)Played in 38 games for the Flying Bison. • Hit .340 at the plate with 10 doubles, two triples and six home runs. • Tallied 47 RBI and 40 runs. • Posted a .412 on-base percentage and .545 slugging percentage. • Recorded 13 stolen bases. • Compiled 17 multi-hit games, including six three-hit contests and a four-hit performance. • Drove in at least two runs in 13 games, along with seven three-RBI contests and season-high six-RBI outing.Case Sanderson – Northwoods League (La Crosse Loggers)Earned all-star and postseason all-star honors while leading the Loggers to the Northwoods League Championship game. • Ranked among the league leaders throughout the summer, finishing second in on-base percentage (.505), fifth in hitting (.359) and OPS (1.049) and tied for eighth with 51 RBI. • Became the first player in organization history to have a three-homer game after going 3-for-4 with three home runs and seven RBI on July 30. • Tallied 13 doubles and six homers. • Scored 48 runs and stole five bases. • Posted 18 multi-hit games in the 46-game span, including seven three-hit contests and a season-high four hits once. • Drove in at least two runs in 14 games, along with six performances with three-plus RBI, including a season-high seven RBI. • Accounted for three-plus runs in 17 games for the Loggers.Rhett Stokes – Northwoods League (Willmar Stingers)Played in 23 games for the Stingers in the summer. • Hit .372 at the plate with six doubles and a home run. • Tallied 15 RBI and scored 26 runs. • Had nine stolen bases in 10 attempts. • Posted a .431 on-base percentage and an OPS of .899. • Compiled 11 multi-hit performances, including six games with three hits. • Drove in at least two runs in four games, along with a season-high three RBI.Gabe Swansen - Northwoods League (Willmar Stingers)Saw action in 18 games for the Stingers. • Hit .333 at the plate with five doubles and a home run. • Totaled 13 RBI and 16 runs. • Posted a .402 on-base percentage and an OPS of .842. • Finished play on a 10-game hit streak. • Had at least two hits in eight of the 18 games, including a pair of three-hit performances. • Tallied two RBI in four contests.Tucker Timmerman – Alaska Baseball League (Matsu Miners)Appeared in eight games, making six starts for the Miners. • Went 3-1 with a 0.27 ERA. • Totaled 29 punchouts in 33 innings. • Compiled a .91 WHIP and held opponents to a .193 hitting clip. • Allowed just one earned run all summer, finishing the season on a 29-inning scoreless streak. • Last at least five innings in five of six starts, including a season-high seven-inning start. • Surrendered four hits or less in four starts. • Reached five strikeouts in three starts, along with a season-high eight strikeouts.NewcomersKayden Anderson – Independence League (Fremont Moo)Played in 11 games for the Moo. • Hit .326 with four doubles. • Tallied 10 RBI and scored 12 runs. • Stole four bases in five attempts. • Posted a .473 on-base percentage and an OPS of .891. • Recorded four multi-hit games, including one three-hit contest. • Drove in a run in eight games, along with a season-high three RBI.Pryce Bender – Jayhawk Collegiate League (Haysville Aviators)Saw action in 16 games as a two-way player for the Aviators. • Hit .241 at the plate with two doubles, a triple and a home run. • Drove in nine runs and scored 18 times. • Had five stolen bases in five attempts. • Made three appearances on the mound, making two starts. • Went 2-0 with a 3.55 ERA. • Totaled 11 strikeouts in 12.2 innings. • All three outings went at least three innings, including a season-high 5.2-inning start. • Recorded two appearances with four-plus punchouts, along with a season-high five strikeouts.Robbie Bolin – Team USA/Cape Cod League (Falmouth Commodores)Represented Team USA at the historic Honkbalweek Haarlem and saw limited action with the Commodores in the Cape Cod League to end the summer. • Earned recognition as the best hitter of the tournament after leading Team USA in hitting. • Hit .391 with nine hits and an RBI. • Scored six runs and stole a tournament-high five bases. • Tallied four hits and scored four runs in a nine-game stint with the Commodores. • Drew six walks and stole five bases in five attempts.Luke Broderick – Team USARepresented Team USA at the historic Honkbalweek Haarlem. • Appeared in one game for the Stars and Stripes, making a 3.1-inning relief appearance. • Allowed just three hits and didn’t surrender a run. • Compiled six punchouts and a pair of walks.TJ Coats – KC Collegiate Baseball League (Precision Baseball KC)Played in 16 games with Precision Baseball KC. • Hit .447 with seven doubles and four home runs. • Drove in 17 runs and scored 17 times. • Totaled 21 hits in 47 at-bats. • Posted a .552 on-base percentage and an OPS of 1.403. • Drew eight walks and stole one base in two attempts.Jaron Cotton – Northwoods League (Bismarck Larks)Saw action in 34 games with the Larks. • Hit .213 with six doubles and a triple. • Drove in 17 runs and scored 25 times. • Posted a .385 on-base percentage and an OPS of .688. • Stole seven bases in seven attempts. • Had five multi-hit performances, including a season-high three hits. • Drew 21 walks on the season and tallied 14 games with an RBI, along with a season-high three RBI.Cooper Markle – Mid America League (Abilene Flying Bison)Played in 32 games for the Flying Bison. • Hit .278 at the plate with 10 doubles, a triple and three home runs. • Tallied 28 RBI and 29 runs. • Posted a .383 on-base percentage. • Compiled seven multi-hit games, including one three-hit performance and a four-hit contest. • Drove in at least two runs in eight games, along with four three-RBI contests.Kanon Sundgren – Northwoods League (La Crosse Loggers)Helped the Loggers advance to the Northwoods League Championship game. • Hit .307 with four doubles and a home run in 19 games. • Drove in 16 runs and scored 13 times. • Stole two bases in two attempts. • Posted a .400 on-base percentage and an OPS of .800. • Totaled five multi-hit games, including a pair of three-hit games and a four-hit performance. • Posted 12 games with an RBI, along with three multi-RBI contests. • Concluded action with the Loggers on a five-game hit streak.

Huskers in Summer League review

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Th Nebraska Kearney volleyball team reported to fall camp today (Aug. 19) in preparation for its season-opener in three weeks.

The Lopers have just four days of “fall camp” as they scrimmage Metro State (Aug. 23/7 p.m.; Aug. 24; 12 p.m.) and Colorado School of Mines (Aug. 24/10:30 a.m.) this weekend. UNK then faces Colorado State-Pueblo next Friday (Aug. 30/5 p.m.) in its final tune-up. All scrimmages are free and open to the public, but match results will not be recorded.

Head coach&nbsp;Rick Squiers, 758-108 in his Loper tenure, and his staff must replace All-Americans Emersen Cyza (outside hitter) and Jaden Ferguson (right side) but plenty of firepower returns to help the Lopers duplicate last year’s 29-6 record. UNK reached the second round of the NCAA’s ultra-tough Central Regional, were MIAA Tournament runners-up and finished 10th&nbsp;in the final national poll.

North Platte redshirt junior setter&nbsp;Peyton Neff&nbsp;is a returning All-American with newcomer libero/defensive specialist&nbsp;Alli Wiese&nbsp;(Mattawan, Mich.) a two-time All-American playing for Hillsdale (Mich.) College. UNK added more experience in the backrow in redshirt junior&nbsp;Aleena Peterson&nbsp;(Kansas City) from Southwest Baptist. &nbsp;Next, fifth-year senior right-side&nbsp;Lauren Taubenheim&nbsp;(Lincoln Pius), senior outside&nbsp;Asha Regier&nbsp;(Newton, Kan.) and sophomore middle&nbsp;Mia Berg&nbsp;(Eureka, Mo.) have each earned All-MIAA honors in their careers. Finally, eight freshmen have come aboard.

UNK begins the year Sept. 6-7 in California with the home opener set for Sept. 10 vs. Peru State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724181623000.jpeg" alt="North Platte native Peyton Neff (UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>North Platte native Peyton Neff (UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Th Nebraska Kearney volleyball team reported to fall camp today (Aug. 19) in preparation for its season-opener in three weeks.The Lopers have just four days of “fall camp” as they scrimmage Metro State (Aug. 23/7 p.m.; Aug. 24; 12 p.m.) and Colorado School of Mines (Aug. 24/10:30 a.m.) this weekend. UNK then faces Colorado State-Pueblo next Friday (Aug. 30/5 p.m.) in its final tune-up. All scrimmages are free and open to the public, but match results will not be recorded.Head coach&nbsp;Rick Squiers, 758-108 in his Loper tenure, and his staff must replace All-Americans Emersen Cyza (outside hitter) and Jaden Ferguson (right side) but plenty of firepower returns to help the Lopers duplicate last year’s 29-6 record. UNK reached the second round of the NCAA’s ultra-tough Central Regional, were MIAA Tournament runners-up and finished 10th&nbsp;in the final national poll.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724181686624.jpeg" alt="Lauren Taubenheim (UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Taubenheim (UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte redshirt junior setter&nbsp;Peyton Neff&nbsp;is a returning All-American with newcomer libero/defensive specialist&nbsp;Alli Wiese&nbsp;(Mattawan, Mich.) a two-time All-American playing for Hillsdale (Mich.) College. UNK added more experience in the backrow in redshirt junior&nbsp;Aleena Peterson&nbsp;(Kansas City) from Southwest Baptist. &nbsp;Next, fifth-year senior right-side&nbsp;Lauren Taubenheim&nbsp;(Lincoln Pius), senior outside&nbsp;Asha Regier&nbsp;(Newton, Kan.) and sophomore middle&nbsp;Mia Berg&nbsp;(Eureka, Mo.) have each earned All-MIAA honors in their careers. Finally, eight freshmen have come aboard.UNK begins the year Sept. 6-7 in California with the home opener set for Sept. 10 vs. Peru State.

UNK Volleyball Roster Features Two All-Americans, Four All-MIAA Selections & Eight Freshmen

By: Dave Collins Sports Director X: @DMCbroadcasting

&nbsp;The excitement
of the upcoming Chadron State football season has been clouded over in recent
days after a very serious injury at last Saturday’s practice.

Junior safety
Jason Pugal faces a lengthy rehabilitation after he was injured making a hit as the offense and defense were going through game-like action in full pads.&nbsp; 

I was covering practice at the field Saturday and while Pugal was being assessed by training staff the players separated out around the field in their position groups and shortly after were directed to go to the locker room. Practice was canceled for the remainder of the morning once it was understood Pugal was going to need serious medical attention.&nbsp; 

Trainers, local emergency crews and athletics department staff were all on hand to manage the situation, and were able to get Pugal immobilized, back-boarded and taken to Chadron Community Hospital. He was eventually transferred to Rapid City via helicopter later in the afternoon for additional treatment.

According to
the family’s Go Fund Me page, Pugal suffered a “severe neck injury” –
fracturing his neck and compressing his C6 vertebra. The injury has left him
without feeling from the chest down.&nbsp; The
statement reads that Pugal has undergone spinal fusion surgery and will begin
an intense rehab as his next steps once he gets back home in
California.

He was about to
begin his first season with the Eagle football team, transferring from Palomar
College.&nbsp; The 20-year-old is married, and
donations on his Go Fund Me page had reached over $20,500 of the $30,000 goal as of Monday night.&nbsp; 

The family has been told it will cost $28,000
just to fly Jason home to begin rehab, and the communities that know and
support Jason and CSC football have clearly stepped up in a major way already.

&nbsp; Here is a link to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/gby9sf-support-jasons-journey-to-recovery">Go Fund Me Page</a>&nbsp;if you'd like to contribute, and where the family is also updating Jason’s status.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I’ll pass along
significant updates as we get them as well.&nbsp;


Meanwhile, the team did return to the practice field yesterday following
Sunday’s mandatory off day.&nbsp; The season opener is in just over a week when UNK visits Chadron, August 29.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724162018972.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: Dave Collins Sports Director X: @DMCbroadcasting&nbsp;The excitement
of the upcoming Chadron State football season has been clouded over in recent
days after a very serious injury at last Saturday’s practice.Junior safety
Jason Pugal faces a lengthy rehabilitation after he was injured making a hit as the offense and defense were going through game-like action in full pads.&nbsp; I was covering practice at the field Saturday and while Pugal was being assessed by training staff the players separated out around the field in their position groups and shortly after were directed to go to the locker room. Practice was canceled for the remainder of the morning once it was understood Pugal was going to need serious medical attention.&nbsp; Trainers, local emergency crews and athletics department staff were all on hand to manage the situation, and were able to get Pugal immobilized, back-boarded and taken to Chadron Community Hospital. He was eventually transferred to Rapid City via helicopter later in the afternoon for additional treatment. According to
the family’s Go Fund Me page, Pugal suffered a “severe neck injury” –
fracturing his neck and compressing his C6 vertebra. The injury has left him
without feeling from the chest down.&nbsp; The
statement reads that Pugal has undergone spinal fusion surgery and will begin
an intense rehab as his next steps once he gets back home in
California.He was about to
begin his first season with the Eagle football team, transferring from Palomar
College.&nbsp; The 20-year-old is married, and
donations on his Go Fund Me page had reached over $20,500 of the $30,000 goal as of Monday night.&nbsp; The family has been told it will cost $28,000
just to fly Jason home to begin rehab, and the communities that know and
support Jason and CSC football have clearly stepped up in a major way already.&nbsp; Here is a link to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/gby9sf-support-jasons-journey-to-recovery">Go Fund Me Page</a>&nbsp;if you'd like to contribute, and where the family is also updating Jason’s status.&nbsp;&nbsp;I’ll pass along
significant updates as we get them as well.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, the team did return to the practice field yesterday following
Sunday’s mandatory off day.&nbsp; The season opener is in just over a week when UNK visits Chadron, August 29.

CSC safety faces long rehabilitation after devastating practice injury Saturday

Lincoln&nbsp;- A total of 11 current and former Husker student-athletes across all sports will receive their degrees during University of Nebraska-Lincoln Summer Commencement ceremonies at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Saturday, Aug. 17 at 9 a.m.

Former Husker Niles Paul (Omaha, Neb.), who spent six NFL seasons with Washington after being drafted in the fifth round in 2011, will earn his degree to headline a group of four football student-athletes in the graduating class. In his four seasons as a Husker (2007-10), Paul hauled in more than 100 receptions for more than 1,500 yards, while racking up more than 4,000 all-purpose yards for the Big Red. He claimed All-Big 12 honors as both a returner and wide receiver during his career while also earning Academic All-Big 12 accolades.

Teddy Prochazka (Elkhorn, Neb.), Braden Klover (Wymore, Neb.) and Keegan Menning (Fremont, Neb.) add three more homegrown Huskers to football’s graduating class.

Former Nebraska men’s basketball starter Trey McGowens (Pendleton, S.C.) also leads the group of graduates. McGowens, who spent his final season at Nebraska in 2021-22, spent time in the NBA G League with the Long Island Nets in 2023-24, while also playing for the Edmonton Stingers in Canada’s CEBL. He was the MVP of the 2023 FIBA 3x3 U23 Men’s World Cup for USA Basketball.

Clay Bradford (Humble, Texas) and Rans Sanders (Grand Island, Neb.) add a pair of graduates for the Nebraska baseball program, while Brooke Bream (Phoenix, Ariz.) represents the Husker women’s golf team.

A trio of international students round out the class of summer graduates, led by men’s tennis student-athlete Nic Wiedenhorn (Stuttgart, Germany), women’s tennis player Raphaelle Lacasse (Montreal, Quebec, Canada) and women’s gymnast Lucy Stanhope (Warrington, England).

Overall, the 11 Husker graduates in August came to Nebraska from four states and three foreign countries. Over the last three graduations (December 2023, May 2024, August 2024), a school-record total of 154 Husker student-athletes from 27 states and 12 foreign countries have earned their degrees from the University of Nebraska.

Nebraska continues to feature one of the highest graduation rates in the nation, while leading the nation in NCAA Today’s Top Ten Award winners (18) across all sports. Nebraska also leads the Big Ten and ranks second in NCAA Division I with 362 College Sports Communicators Academic All-Americans (362) across all sports. More than 100 Nebraska student-athletes all time have earned prestigious NCAA Postgraduate Scholarships.

August 2024 Nebraska Student-Athlete Graduates (11)

Student-Athlete (Sport), Hometown - Major

Story by NU Athletic Communications&nbsp;Lincoln&nbsp;- A total of 11 current and former Husker student-athletes across all sports will receive their degrees during University of Nebraska-Lincoln Summer Commencement ceremonies at Pinnacle Bank Arena on Saturday, Aug. 17 at 9 a.m.Former Husker Niles Paul (Omaha, Neb.), who spent six NFL seasons with Washington after being drafted in the fifth round in 2011, will earn his degree to headline a group of four football student-athletes in the graduating class. In his four seasons as a Husker (2007-10), Paul hauled in more than 100 receptions for more than 1,500 yards, while racking up more than 4,000 all-purpose yards for the Big Red. He claimed All-Big 12 honors as both a returner and wide receiver during his career while also earning Academic All-Big 12 accolades.Teddy Prochazka (Elkhorn, Neb.), Braden Klover (Wymore, Neb.) and Keegan Menning (Fremont, Neb.) add three more homegrown Huskers to football’s graduating class.Former Nebraska men’s basketball starter Trey McGowens (Pendleton, S.C.) also leads the group of graduates. McGowens, who spent his final season at Nebraska in 2021-22, spent time in the NBA G League with the Long Island Nets in 2023-24, while also playing for the Edmonton Stingers in Canada’s CEBL. He was the MVP of the 2023 FIBA 3x3 U23 Men’s World Cup for USA Basketball.Clay Bradford (Humble, Texas) and Rans Sanders (Grand Island, Neb.) add a pair of graduates for the Nebraska baseball program, while Brooke Bream (Phoenix, Ariz.) represents the Husker women’s golf team.A trio of international students round out the class of summer graduates, led by men’s tennis student-athlete Nic Wiedenhorn (Stuttgart, Germany), women’s tennis player Raphaelle Lacasse (Montreal, Quebec, Canada) and women’s gymnast Lucy Stanhope (Warrington, England).Overall, the 11 Husker graduates in August came to Nebraska from four states and three foreign countries. Over the last three graduations (December 2023, May 2024, August 2024), a school-record total of 154 Husker student-athletes from 27 states and 12 foreign countries have earned their degrees from the University of Nebraska.Nebraska continues to feature one of the highest graduation rates in the nation, while leading the nation in NCAA Today’s Top Ten Award winners (18) across all sports. Nebraska also leads the Big Ten and ranks second in NCAA Division I with 362 College Sports Communicators Academic All-Americans (362) across all sports. More than 100 Nebraska student-athletes all time have earned prestigious NCAA Postgraduate Scholarships.August 2024 Nebraska Student-Athlete Graduates (11)Student-Athlete (Sport), Hometown - Major<ul>
 <li>Clay Bradford&nbsp;(Baseball), Humble, Texas - Child, Youth &amp; Family Studies</li><li>Brooke Bream&nbsp;(Women’s Golf), Phoenix, Arizona - Economics</li><li>Braden Klover&nbsp;(Football), Wymore, Nebraska - Nutrition &amp; Health Sciences</li><li>Raphaelle Lacasse&nbsp;(Women’s Tennis), Montreal, Quebec, Canada - Finance</li><li>Trey McGowens&nbsp;(Men’s Basketball), Pendleton, South Carolina&nbsp;- Child, Youth &amp; Family Studies</li><li>Keegan Menning&nbsp;(Football), Fremont, Nebraska - Accounting/Finance</li><li>Niles Paul&nbsp;(Football), Omaha, Nebraska - Individualized Program of Studies</li><li>Teddy Prochazka&nbsp;(Football), Elkhorn, Nebraska - Sports Media &amp; Communication</li><li>Rans Sanders&nbsp;(Baseball), Grand Island, Nebraska - Child, Youth &amp; Family Studies</li><li>Lucy Stanhope&nbsp;(Women’s Gymnastics), Warrington, England - Psychology</li><li>Nic Wiedenhorn&nbsp;(Men’s Tennis), Stuttgart, Germany - Sports Media &amp; Communication</li>
 </ul>

11 Huskers to earn Degrees at August commencement

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Sarah Weber netted three goals, good for the 35th hat trick in program history and first since 2018, as the sixth-ranked Nebraska soccer team defeated Colorado State 3-2 on Sunday afternoon at Hibner Stadium in front of 1,336 fans.

Weber’s hat trick marked her first, second and third goals of the season and improved her career mark to 35 finishes, which ties her for 10th in Husker history. Florence Belzile, who finished the 2023 season ranked second nationally with 17 assists, tallied a pair of dishes along with Jordan Zade who recorded her 17th and 18th career assists. Grad transfer Gracie English rounded out the group with an assist of her own, good for the first point of her Husker career.&nbsp;

With the win, Nebraska improves to 1-1-0 on the season, while Colorado State suffers its first loss of the year (0-1-0).

To get the scoring started, Zade sent a throw to Belzile, who dribbled and dished to Weber, gathering and scoring into the back left corner of the net in the 14th minute. Less than 10 minutes later, the Huskers stretched the lead to 2-0, as Belzile sent a pass into the 18, which was intercepted by the goalie, before Weber gathered and shot for the finish. Colorado State outshot the Huskers 9-6 in the first half but were unable to capitalize, and Nebraska held the score advantage at half.&nbsp;

In the second half, Colorado State evened the game with goals by Mia Massey and Maggie Altman in the 63rd and 70th minute before Weber recorded the hat trick. In the 71st minute, Zade got the play started as she dribbled across midfield and passed to English. The Belleville, Ill., native then sent a cross to Weber who netted the goal.&nbsp;

Cece Villa started for the Huskers in goal, as she tallied the win and played the complete game along with Lauryn Anglim and Zade.&nbsp;

The Huskers continue their five-game homestand on Thursday, Aug. 22 at 7:05 p.m. (CT). Action will be streamed on Big Ten Plus.&nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsSarah Weber netted three goals, good for the 35th hat trick in program history and first since 2018, as the sixth-ranked Nebraska soccer team defeated Colorado State 3-2 on Sunday afternoon at Hibner Stadium in front of 1,336 fans.Weber’s hat trick marked her first, second and third goals of the season and improved her career mark to 35 finishes, which ties her for 10th in Husker history. Florence Belzile, who finished the 2023 season ranked second nationally with 17 assists, tallied a pair of dishes along with Jordan Zade who recorded her 17th and 18th career assists. Grad transfer Gracie English rounded out the group with an assist of her own, good for the first point of her Husker career.&nbsp;With the win, Nebraska improves to 1-1-0 on the season, while Colorado State suffers its first loss of the year (0-1-0).To get the scoring started, Zade sent a throw to Belzile, who dribbled and dished to Weber, gathering and scoring into the back left corner of the net in the 14th minute. Less than 10 minutes later, the Huskers stretched the lead to 2-0, as Belzile sent a pass into the 18, which was intercepted by the goalie, before Weber gathered and shot for the finish. Colorado State outshot the Huskers 9-6 in the first half but were unable to capitalize, and Nebraska held the score advantage at half.&nbsp;In the second half, Colorado State evened the game with goals by Mia Massey and Maggie Altman in the 63rd and 70th minute before Weber recorded the hat trick. In the 71st minute, Zade got the play started as she dribbled across midfield and passed to English. The Belleville, Ill., native then sent a cross to Weber who netted the goal.&nbsp;Cece Villa started for the Huskers in goal, as she tallied the win and played the complete game along with Lauryn Anglim and Zade.&nbsp;The Huskers continue their five-game homestand on Thursday, Aug. 22 at 7:05 p.m. (CT). Action will be streamed on Big Ten Plus.&nbsp;

Weber’s hat trick powers Huskers past CSU

Despite holding the 22-13 advantage in shots, the No. 6 Nebraska soccer team (0-1-0) dropped the season opener against Oklahoma State (1-0-0) 2-0 at Hibner Stadium on Thursday evening in front of 1,379 fans.

In a matchup between two former Big 12 foes, the teams saw a scoreless first 45 minutes, but Nebraska led in shots (9-6) and corners (8-1). The Huskers had action from 18 athletes led by Sarah Weber with two shots and a full 45 minutes of play.

The Huskers continued to hold the momentum in the first half taking seven shots to Oklahoma State’s two, but it was the Cowgirls who found the back of the net twice in the final 45 minutes. Lexi Lee scored in the 67th minute, with assists from Laudan Wilson and Xcaret Pineda, before Adelhia Ghonda recorded the finish in the 75th minute, with the dish from Reganne Morris.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sami Hauk recorded three saves and played the entire 90 minutes, along with Reese Borer and Lauryn Anglim. Weber and Sadie Waite combined for 10 shots, and midfielder Florence Belzile tallied the team’s lone pair of shots on goal.&nbsp;

Up next, NU continues its homestand as the Huskers host Colorado State on Sunday, Aug. 18 at 7:05 p.m. (CT). Action will be streamed on Big Ten Plus.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsDespite holding the 22-13 advantage in shots, the No. 6 Nebraska soccer team (0-1-0) dropped the season opener against Oklahoma State (1-0-0) 2-0 at Hibner Stadium on Thursday evening in front of 1,379 fans.In a matchup between two former Big 12 foes, the teams saw a scoreless first 45 minutes, but Nebraska led in shots (9-6) and corners (8-1). The Huskers had action from 18 athletes led by Sarah Weber with two shots and a full 45 minutes of play.The Huskers continued to hold the momentum in the first half taking seven shots to Oklahoma State’s two, but it was the Cowgirls who found the back of the net twice in the final 45 minutes. Lexi Lee scored in the 67th minute, with assists from Laudan Wilson and Xcaret Pineda, before Adelhia Ghonda recorded the finish in the 75th minute, with the dish from Reganne Morris.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sami Hauk recorded three saves and played the entire 90 minutes, along with Reese Borer and Lauryn Anglim. Weber and Sadie Waite combined for 10 shots, and midfielder Florence Belzile tallied the team’s lone pair of shots on goal.&nbsp;Up next, NU continues its homestand as the Huskers host Colorado State on Sunday, Aug. 18 at 7:05 p.m. (CT). Action will be streamed on Big Ten Plus.

Huskers fall to Cowgirls, 2-0 

Nebraska Rifle Head Coach Richard Clark announced the hiring of Kristen Derting as assistant coach for the Husker program on Thursday. 

Derting will enter the coaching ranks during the 2024-25 season with the Big Red. She is a graduate of Ole Miss and competed on the Rebel rifle team for five years. During that time, she was a six-time CRCA All-American and an 11-time All-GARC (Great American Rifle Conference) team member. During her collegiate career, Derting posted career highs of 594 in the smallbore, 598 in the air rifle and 1,188 in the aggregate.&nbsp;“I am very excited to be joining the Nebraska rifle team as its assistant coach,” Derting said. “I look forward to growing and improving the skills of the team this season.” 

In addition to competing for Ole Miss, Derting qualified for the USA National Team and has competed in five international competitions over the last two years, including the World Cup in 2023 and the Continental American Championships in 2022.“We are excited to welcome Kristen to the Nebraska rifle program,” Clark said. “Her experience as a collegiate athlete at Ole Miss and member of the USA National Team make her an excellent addition to our coaching staff. She brings a wealth of technical knowledge and leadership skills that will help push our program to the next level.”

The Salem, Ore., native was a force for the Rebels, as the team qualified for four straight NCAA Championships during her tenure. In 2023-24, Derting led the team with an air rifle average of 593.4 and competed in both the smallbore and air rifle in every match for Ole Miss.&nbsp;Derting earned her bachelor’s degree in hospitality management from the University of Mississippi in December of 2023 and her master’s degree in hospitality administration/management from Mississippi in August of 2024.

Story by NU Athletic Communications&nbsp;Nebraska Rifle Head Coach Richard Clark announced the hiring of Kristen Derting as assistant coach for the Husker program on Thursday. Derting will enter the coaching ranks during the 2024-25 season with the Big Red. She is a graduate of Ole Miss and competed on the Rebel rifle team for five years. During that time, she was a six-time CRCA All-American and an 11-time All-GARC (Great American Rifle Conference) team member. During her collegiate career, Derting posted career highs of 594 in the smallbore, 598 in the air rifle and 1,188 in the aggregate.&nbsp;“I am very excited to be joining the Nebraska rifle team as its assistant coach,” Derting said. “I look forward to growing and improving the skills of the team this season.” In addition to competing for Ole Miss, Derting qualified for the USA National Team and has competed in five international competitions over the last two years, including the World Cup in 2023 and the Continental American Championships in 2022.“We are excited to welcome Kristen to the Nebraska rifle program,” Clark said. “Her experience as a collegiate athlete at Ole Miss and member of the USA National Team make her an excellent addition to our coaching staff. She brings a wealth of technical knowledge and leadership skills that will help push our program to the next level.”The Salem, Ore., native was a force for the Rebels, as the team qualified for four straight NCAA Championships during her tenure. In 2023-24, Derting led the team with an air rifle average of 593.4 and competed in both the smallbore and air rifle in every match for Ole Miss.&nbsp;Derting earned her bachelor’s degree in hospitality management from the University of Mississippi in December of 2023 and her master’s degree in hospitality administration/management from Mississippi in August of 2024.

Huskers hire Derting as Assistant Coach

OMAHA, Neb.&nbsp;–The&nbsp;Omaha Supernovas, Nebraska’s professional volleyball team and first Pro Volleyball Champions, have officially sold out its inaugural clinics which are set to kick off next week. 120 fourth- through eighth-graders will attend the three clinics that will run from&nbsp;August 19 through 21 at the&nbsp;College of Saint Mary Fieldhouse, the Supernovas home practice facility.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Supernovas Head Coach&nbsp;Laura “Bird” Kuhn, Assistant Coach&nbsp;Thomas Robson&nbsp;and outside hitter&nbsp;Brooke Nuneviller&nbsp;will run the clinics.&nbsp;

August 19 will be the one and only Serving Clinic with a mix between technical training and games. The Supernovas were the best serving team in the PVF last season, leading the league with 98 aces and a 1.00 aces per set average. That also included outside hitter&nbsp;Bethania de la Cruz&nbsp;winning the PVF Server of the Year award with a league-leading 35 aces. August 20 and 21 will be the All Skills Clinic to improve an athlete’s all-around volleyball skills.&nbsp;

Supernovas season tickets for the 2025 season are officially on sale and going fast! To become a season ticket member and secure the best seat in professional volleyball, click this&nbsp;<a href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001S5EehWRkElHW5LjS-13riEQag5hwD89IU2uqzEUM1bhP-7na0eWB5-uPjG9oHCb0PRIb3rbNYgt-jsS6m1yChap8wJNzpllUkiF4LEJSC75Et5XiCT-i30voVnZSmXiaSq1NUNIlTgUSB2kbYSsvnCLPID6cXU-WLBkHsWU6O9rm17ohzU9zD3-dja4jmDvU&amp;c=_Z-o2Lbp-hb61ymyamvHGtIvAN0c8kMyQ-p3nb1PmlvNsezCIWVR4A==&amp;ch=zwVfsIWJc98_UJ2d8DI5KcmUVm9YK6pjntqNXtQLQoO5UMB4So5wnA==" target="_blank">link</a>&nbsp;or call 402-502-5268.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fans will be able to see the Supernovas and championship trophy as part of the Championship Trophy Tour. Please click this&nbsp;<a href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001S5EehWRkElHW5LjS-13riEQag5hwD89IU2uqzEUM1bhP-7na0eWB5yBvk8SiH6Nn-QThZEnq3d6fZnuGOuYAk5txe1InaWFR5-O-19hBbtyhG6PSynLm39VLNqM_Fl97CmejpcpkKqdvlWjsu4XnFw9N7WVvoMVTnBlAS5XP38lAWmek2rSPcdN3BU93BjQu&amp;c=_Z-o2Lbp-hb61ymyamvHGtIvAN0c8kMyQ-p3nb1PmlvNsezCIWVR4A==&amp;ch=zwVfsIWJc98_UJ2d8DI5KcmUVm9YK6pjntqNXtQLQoO5UMB4So5wnA==" target="_blank">link</a>&nbsp;to see where the Supernovas are this summer!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Story by Supernovas Commination'sOMAHA, Neb.&nbsp;–The&nbsp;Omaha Supernovas, Nebraska’s professional volleyball team and first Pro Volleyball Champions, have officially sold out its inaugural clinics which are set to kick off next week. 120 fourth- through eighth-graders will attend the three clinics that will run from&nbsp;August 19 through 21 at the&nbsp;College of Saint Mary Fieldhouse, the Supernovas home practice facility.&nbsp;&nbsp;Supernovas Head Coach&nbsp;Laura “Bird” Kuhn, Assistant Coach&nbsp;Thomas Robson&nbsp;and outside hitter&nbsp;Brooke Nuneviller&nbsp;will run the clinics.&nbsp;August 19 will be the one and only Serving Clinic with a mix between technical training and games. The Supernovas were the best serving team in the PVF last season, leading the league with 98 aces and a 1.00 aces per set average. That also included outside hitter&nbsp;Bethania de la Cruz&nbsp;winning the PVF Server of the Year award with a league-leading 35 aces. August 20 and 21 will be the All Skills Clinic to improve an athlete’s all-around volleyball skills.&nbsp;Supernovas season tickets for the 2025 season are officially on sale and going fast! To become a season ticket member and secure the best seat in professional volleyball, click this&nbsp;<a href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001S5EehWRkElHW5LjS-13riEQag5hwD89IU2uqzEUM1bhP-7na0eWB5-uPjG9oHCb0PRIb3rbNYgt-jsS6m1yChap8wJNzpllUkiF4LEJSC75Et5XiCT-i30voVnZSmXiaSq1NUNIlTgUSB2kbYSsvnCLPID6cXU-WLBkHsWU6O9rm17ohzU9zD3-dja4jmDvU&amp;c=_Z-o2Lbp-hb61ymyamvHGtIvAN0c8kMyQ-p3nb1PmlvNsezCIWVR4A==&amp;ch=zwVfsIWJc98_UJ2d8DI5KcmUVm9YK6pjntqNXtQLQoO5UMB4So5wnA==" target="_blank">link</a>&nbsp;or call 402-502-5268.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fans will be able to see the Supernovas and championship trophy as part of the Championship Trophy Tour. Please click this&nbsp;<a href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001S5EehWRkElHW5LjS-13riEQag5hwD89IU2uqzEUM1bhP-7na0eWB5yBvk8SiH6Nn-QThZEnq3d6fZnuGOuYAk5txe1InaWFR5-O-19hBbtyhG6PSynLm39VLNqM_Fl97CmejpcpkKqdvlWjsu4XnFw9N7WVvoMVTnBlAS5XP38lAWmek2rSPcdN3BU93BjQu&amp;c=_Z-o2Lbp-hb61ymyamvHGtIvAN0c8kMyQ-p3nb1PmlvNsezCIWVR4A==&amp;ch=zwVfsIWJc98_UJ2d8DI5KcmUVm9YK6pjntqNXtQLQoO5UMB4So5wnA==" target="_blank">link</a>&nbsp;to see where the Supernovas are this summer!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Supernovas sell out Inaugural Clinics

After playing a pair of exhibition matches, the Nebraska soccer team begins its regular season this week at home against Oklahoma State and Colorado State.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Both matches will be played at Hibner Stadium, with Thursday’s game set for 7:05 p.m. (CT) and Sunday’s game kicking off at 1:05 p.m. (CT). Action will be streamed on B1G+ (subscription required), and fans can purchase general admission and single match tickets to each game by calling 1-800-8 BIG RED or by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://huskers.com/tickets" target="_blank">Huskers.com/tickets</a>.&nbsp;

NU continues its five-match homestand as it hosts Duke on Thursday, Aug. 22 at 7:05 p.m. (CT).&nbsp;

Scouting the Oklahoma State Cowgirls

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsAfter playing a pair of exhibition matches, the Nebraska soccer team begins its regular season this week at home against Oklahoma State and Colorado State.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both matches will be played at Hibner Stadium, with Thursday’s game set for 7:05 p.m. (CT) and Sunday’s game kicking off at 1:05 p.m. (CT). Action will be streamed on B1G+ (subscription required), and fans can purchase general admission and single match tickets to each game by calling 1-800-8 BIG RED or by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://huskers.com/tickets" target="_blank">Huskers.com/tickets</a>.&nbsp;Next UpNU continues its five-match homestand as it hosts Duke on Thursday, Aug. 22 at 7:05 p.m. (CT).&nbsp;Quick Notes<ul>
 <li>Seniors Florence Belzile, Sarah Weber and Jordan Zade received Big Ten Preseason Honors recognition, announced by the conference on Tuesday.</li><li>The Big Ten also released its preseason poll on Tuesday, as voted by the head coaches. Nebraska is picked to finish fourth in the conference and currently sits in sixth in the United Soccer Coaches Preseason Poll.&nbsp;</li><li>The 2023 season was one to remember as NU ended the year ranked No. 7 in the United Soccer Coaches poll after an impressive NCAA-tournament run, finishing in the Elite Eight for the first time since 1999.&nbsp;</li><li>Last season, the Husker coaching staff was named the NCAA North Region Staff of the Year by the United Soccer Coaches and Eleanor Dale, Weber and Zade earned spots on the 2023 All-North Region team. Dale also garnered first-team NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer All-America honors, as she became the 20th All-American in program history and the fourth first-team honoree.</li><li>The 2023 Big Ten Champs finished the season atop the conference rankings in goals scored with 68, also good for fifth in the nation. The Huskers received numerous conference awards led by NCAA First-Team All-American Dale who became the first Husker to claim the Big Ten Forward of the Year honor. Dale was joined by Weber as a first-team All-Big Ten member, and defender Zade and midfielder Haley Peterson were named to the second team.</li><li>The Huskers have 10 regular-season home games scheduled for their 10th season at Hibner Stadium in 2024. Additionally, NU will host one exhibition, five non-conference and five conference matches.</li><li>Nebraska went 3-1-2 during the spring season with victories over Colorado, Kansas and Omaha.&nbsp;</li><li>NU returns three of four All-Big Ten performers from last season, seniors Weber, Peterson and Zade. Nebraska’s all-time all-conference total increased to 110, including 38 honorees since joining the Big Ten in 2011.</li><li>Last season, many Huskers were high in individual standings as Weber tallied 16 total goals, good for fifth in the nation, and midfielder Belzile recorded a team-high 17 assists, which ranked first in the conference and second nationally. Additionally, Belzile’s assists tied for second-most in both conference and Husker history.&nbsp;</li><li>During the 2023 season, the Huskers averaged 1,326 fans per game at Hibner Stadium, third most in Husker history and 15th in the nation. NU garnered 2,318 fans in the NCAA Second Round match versus Tennessee, the most fans in attendance since 2015.</li><li>Head Coach John Walker enters his 31st season, alongside assistant coaches Savanah Anderson-Baer (second season), Ian Bridge (ninth season) and Marty Everding (27th season).&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Scouting the Oklahoma State Cowgirls<ul>
 <li>Oklahoma State finished the 2023 season with a 12-8 record overall and 5-5 mark in conference play. OSU opened conference play winning four-straight matches, but eventually fell to Oklahoma in the first round of the Big 12 tournament to end its season.&nbsp;</li><li>The Cowgirls will host Oral Roberts for their home opener on Sunday, Aug. 18 in Stillwater, Okla.&nbsp;</li><li>Head Coach Colin Carmichael enters his 20th season at the helm of the Oklahoma State soccer program. He was previously an assistant with Team USA and has a 251-105-50 collegiate coaching record.&nbsp;</li><li>Players to Watch</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>#13 Xcaret Pineda (Junior MF): Appeared in all the team’s matches and led OSU last season with 60 shots, 25 of which were on goal. Pineda was named to the Preseason All-Big 12 Soccer team.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>#11 Lauden Wilson (Sophomore MF): Started in 14 of OSU’s matches last season and was tied for the team lead of six assists which gave her a spot on the All-Big 12 Freshman team.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Scouting the Colorado State Rams<ul>
 <li>Colorado State finished the 2023 season with a 12-6-4 record overall and 6-3-2 mark in conference play. CSU made it all the way to the Mountain West Conference Championship game, but eventually fell to Utah State to end its season.&nbsp;</li><li>The Rams will finish off their short road trip on Thursday, Aug. 22 at Northern Colorado.&nbsp;</li><li>Head Coach Keeley Hagen enters her fourth season at the helm of the Colorado State soccer program. She was previously an assistant at Texas and has a 22-21-15 coaching record.&nbsp;</li><li>Players to Watch</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>#18 Olivia Fout (Junior F): Started in all 21 matches she appeared in and set a CSU single-season record with 12 goals. Fout was named the Mountain West Newcomer of the Year and made First team All-Mountain West.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>#15 Avery Vander Ven (Senior M): Started in all 22 of CSU’s matches last season and set the CSU single-season record with nine assists. Vander Ven was named to the Second-Team All-Mountain Team and the Mountain West All-Newcomer Team.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>

Huskers welcome Cowgirls, Rams to start 2024

By&nbsp;Kendall Grayson/Tri City Storm

KEARNEY, NE.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The NHL’s Colorado Avalanche has hired Tri-City Storm Goaltending Coach Matt Zaba as the Goalie Coach for the organization’s AHL affiliate, the Colorado Eagles. Zaba was Tri-City’s Goaltending Coach for the past seven seasons, and coached three USHL Goaltenders of the Year during his time with the organization (Filip Larsson in 2018, Isaiah Saville in 2019, and Arsenii Sergeev in 2022). Five goalies who played under Zaba during his tenure with the Storm were selected in the NHL Draft. &nbsp;Matt Zaba, 40, from Yorkton, Saskatchewan, was hired by the organization on July 27th, 2017.

He was drafted 231st&nbsp;overall by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2003 NHL Draft following a junior hockey career in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) with the Penticton Panthers &amp; Vernon Vipers. Zaba played four years of college hockey with the Colorado College Tigers.&nbsp;His professional hockey career began during the 2007-2008 season in the ECHL&nbsp;with the Charlotte Checkers and Idaho Steelheads. Zaba made his NHL debut with the New York Rangers on January 23rd, 2010, in a road game against the Montreal Canadiens. He spent five seasons in Europe playing for HC Bolzano (Bolzano, Italy) and the Vienna Capitals (Vienna, Austria). Zaba boasted the best Goals Against Average (GAA) in Italy during the 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 seasons, and led HC Bolzano to an Italian League Championship during his second season with the organization. 

Following his&nbsp;professional playing career, Zaba joined Colorado College as a Volunteer Assistant Coach from 2016-2017 before joining the Storm.&nbsp;“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who I have had the pleasure of working with and getting to know in my last seven seasons working with the Tri-City Storm. I loved every second of it and will be forever grateful for all the success we had on the ice and the lifelong friends I gained because of it. I look forward to following the team and wish them nothing but the best moving forward.” – Matt Zaba

By&nbsp;Kendall Grayson/Tri City StormKEARNEY, NE.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The NHL’s Colorado Avalanche has hired Tri-City Storm Goaltending Coach Matt Zaba as the Goalie Coach for the organization’s AHL affiliate, the Colorado Eagles. Zaba was Tri-City’s Goaltending Coach for the past seven seasons, and coached three USHL Goaltenders of the Year during his time with the organization (Filip Larsson in 2018, Isaiah Saville in 2019, and Arsenii Sergeev in 2022). Five goalies who played under Zaba during his tenure with the Storm were selected in the NHL Draft. &nbsp;Matt Zaba, 40, from Yorkton, Saskatchewan, was hired by the organization on July 27th, 2017. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723131769808.jpeg" alt="Matt Zaba named Goalie Coach for Colorado Eagles" />
 <figcaption>Matt Zaba named Goalie Coach for Colorado Eagles</figcaption>
 </figure>He was drafted 231st&nbsp;overall by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2003 NHL Draft following a junior hockey career in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) with the Penticton Panthers &amp; Vernon Vipers. Zaba played four years of college hockey with the Colorado College Tigers.&nbsp;His professional hockey career began during the 2007-2008 season in the ECHL&nbsp;with the Charlotte Checkers and Idaho Steelheads. Zaba made his NHL debut with the New York Rangers on January 23rd, 2010, in a road game against the Montreal Canadiens. He spent five seasons in Europe playing for HC Bolzano (Bolzano, Italy) and the Vienna Capitals (Vienna, Austria). Zaba boasted the best Goals Against Average (GAA) in Italy during the 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 seasons, and led HC Bolzano to an Italian League Championship during his second season with the organization. Following his&nbsp;professional playing career, Zaba joined Colorado College as a Volunteer Assistant Coach from 2016-2017 before joining the Storm.&nbsp;“I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who I have had the pleasure of working with and getting to know in my last seven seasons working with the Tri-City Storm. I loved every second of it and will be forever grateful for all the success we had on the ice and the lifelong friends I gained because of it. I look forward to following the team and wish them nothing but the best moving forward.” – Matt Zaba

Tri Cities' Matt Zaba named Goalie Coach for Colorado Eagles

&nbsp; By: Dave Collins Sports Director X: @DMCbroadcasting

Tommy Thomas and Xavier Harrell are two of the returning vets that Chadron State will count on for big plays and leadership this fall.

Normally more of a "show-me rather than tell-me leader," Harrell said at RMAC Football Media Day he's ready to take his leadership up a level and help the young Eagles on defense prepare and succeed.

Wide receiver Tommy Thomas echoed Harrell's leadership responsibility and also feels the freshmen need to feel like they're already part of the Eagle Family as the team grows together in fall camp.

Thomas remembers back when he was a freshman and his only opportunity to play beyond high school came from the faith CSC had in him.&nbsp; And he learned quickly that hard work and gratitude are keys to his success as one of the RMAC's best pass catchers, and something he hopes to pass along to the young Eagles.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722898978182.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; By: Dave Collins Sports Director X: @DMCbroadcastingTommy Thomas and Xavier Harrell are two of the returning vets that Chadron State will count on for big plays and leadership this fall.Normally more of a "show-me rather than tell-me leader," Harrell said at RMAC Football Media Day he's ready to take his leadership up a level and help the young Eagles on defense prepare and succeed.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1889785218&color=%23601030&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=false"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/xavier-harrell-on-how-he-leads-the-young-guys" title="Xavier Harrell On How He Leads The Young Guys" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Xavier Harrell On How He Leads The Young Guys</a></div></div>Wide receiver Tommy Thomas echoed Harrell's leadership responsibility and also feels the freshmen need to feel like they're already part of the Eagle Family as the team grows together in fall camp.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1889786928&color=%23601030&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=false"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tommy-thomas-on-leading-the-young-guys" title="Tommy Thomas On Leading The Young Guys" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Tommy Thomas On Leading The Young Guys</a></div></div>Thomas remembers back when he was a freshman and his only opportunity to play beyond high school came from the faith CSC had in him.&nbsp; And he learned quickly that hard work and gratitude are keys to his success as one of the RMAC's best pass catchers, and something he hopes to pass along to the young Eagles.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1889787954&color=%23601030&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=false"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tommy-thomas-on-work-ethic" title="Tommy Thomas On Work Ethic" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Tommy Thomas On Work Ethic</a></div></div>

🔊 Harrell & Thomas taking on big leadership roles in CSC fall camp

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/football/roster">The 118th football team</a>&nbsp;in Nebraska Kearney history reported to fall camp this past weekend with the first practice happening on Monday, Aug. 5.

The Lopers will practice daily (8:30-10:30 a.m.) and then hold a walkthrough (4-5 p.m.). Some key dates are Sunday, Aug. 11 (first full padded practice; 2:30-4:30 p.m.), Tuesday, Aug. 13 (first scrimmage; morning) and Thursday, Aug. 21 (second scrimmage; 7-9 p.m.). Practices and scrimmages are free and open to the public. Finally, UNK’s fall semester begins on Monday, Aug. 26.

Head coach&nbsp;Ryan Held&nbsp;and his staff have a roster of 133 players that includes 66 Nebraska natives and players from 19 other states. Picked 10th&nbsp;in the MIAA preseason coaches’ and media polls, the Lopers have 13 returning starters (six defense, four offense and three on special teams) as well as 20 other letterwinners.

Returning All-MIAA players are left tackle&nbsp;Kooper Reece&nbsp;(Valentine) and defensive end&nbsp;Quillan Felton&nbsp;(Lithonia, Ga.). Reece received his honor in 2021 and is trying to return from a major injury sustained in Oct. 2022. Next, graduate transfer&nbsp;Reagan Jones&nbsp;(Wichita) is the new starting quarterback racking up over 4,000 yards of total offense and 31 touchdowns in four years at Missouri Western. F

Finally, UNK brought in 19 other transfers including back&nbsp;Isaiah Harris&nbsp;(Nebraska), receiver&nbsp;Shane Dailey Jr.&nbsp;(Idaho State), defensive back&nbsp;Chandler Brown&nbsp;(U. of Buffalo) and three offensive and three defensive linemen.

The year kicks off Thursday, Aug. 29 at Chadron State with the home opener set for the night of Sept. 7 vs. Northwest Missouri.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722970380465.jpeg" alt="Kooper Reece (UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Kooper Reece (UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>UNK AthleticsKearney, Neb. –&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lopers.com/sports/football/roster">The 118th football team</a>&nbsp;in Nebraska Kearney history reported to fall camp this past weekend with the first practice happening on Monday, Aug. 5.The Lopers will practice daily (8:30-10:30 a.m.) and then hold a walkthrough (4-5 p.m.). Some key dates are Sunday, Aug. 11 (first full padded practice; 2:30-4:30 p.m.), Tuesday, Aug. 13 (first scrimmage; morning) and Thursday, Aug. 21 (second scrimmage; 7-9 p.m.). Practices and scrimmages are free and open to the public. Finally, UNK’s fall semester begins on Monday, Aug. 26.Head coach&nbsp;Ryan Held&nbsp;and his staff have a roster of 133 players that includes 66 Nebraska natives and players from 19 other states. Picked 10th&nbsp;in the MIAA preseason coaches’ and media polls, the Lopers have 13 returning starters (six defense, four offense and three on special teams) as well as 20 other letterwinners.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722970399450.jpeg" alt="Quillan Felton (UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Quillan Felton (UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>Returning All-MIAA players are left tackle&nbsp;Kooper Reece&nbsp;(Valentine) and defensive end&nbsp;Quillan Felton&nbsp;(Lithonia, Ga.). Reece received his honor in 2021 and is trying to return from a major injury sustained in Oct. 2022. Next, graduate transfer&nbsp;Reagan Jones&nbsp;(Wichita) is the new starting quarterback racking up over 4,000 yards of total offense and 31 touchdowns in four years at Missouri Western. FFinally, UNK brought in 19 other transfers including back&nbsp;Isaiah Harris&nbsp;(Nebraska), receiver&nbsp;Shane Dailey Jr.&nbsp;(Idaho State), defensive back&nbsp;Chandler Brown&nbsp;(U. of Buffalo) and three offensive and three defensive linemen.The year kicks off Thursday, Aug. 29 at Chadron State with the home opener set for the night of Sept. 7 vs. Northwest Missouri.&nbsp;

Lopers Prepping for Rival Chadron State on Aug. 29th

The Big Ten Network announced its 2024 volleyball TV schedule on Monday. Nebraska will appear on BTN, FS1 and NBC a total of 17 times during the season, including 14 of 20 conference matches.&nbsp;

In addition to the 17 matches on BTN, FS1 and NBC, Nebraska will play Kentucky on ESPN2 on Aug. 27 at the AVCA First Serve Showcase in Louisville, Ky. Any additional matches selected for TV, including those on Nebraska Public Media, will be announced at a later date.&nbsp;

The Huskers will appear on NBC on Saturday, Oct. 19 at Ohio State at 2:30 p.m. (CT). Nebraska's match on FS1 will be Thursday, Oct. 3 at Illinois at 6 p.m.&nbsp;

NU's first BTN match will be against in-state foe Creighton on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. at the Devaney Center. Seven of Nebraska's eight matches to end the season will be televised on BTN, including the final weekend at Penn State on Friday, Nov. 29 at 4 p.m. (CT), and at Maryland on Saturday, Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. (CT).&nbsp;

Additionally, one date changed from the original schedule announced in June. Nebraska's match at Northwestern will now be played on Sunday, Nov. 3 at Noon. It was originally scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 2. The Huskers play at Wisconsin that Friday, Nov. 1 at 8 p.m.

2024 Nebraska Volleyball TV Schedule(As of Aug. 5; NPM matches still to be determined):

Big Ten Network Announces 2024 Volleyball TV Schedule

Chadron State opened fall football camp on Monday with 129 players registered and ready to begin the college football journey in 2024.&nbsp; 

According to CSC historian and reporter Con Marshall the preliminary roster includes 20 seniors, 26 juniors, 17 sophomores, 23 redshirt freshmen and 49 brand new freshmen.  Thirty-eight of the returnees earned letters last year, when the Eagles finished with a 5-6 record overall and had a 4-5 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference mark.

Since Dalton Holst's graduation two seasons ago the Eagles have used a revolving door at quarterback by design, competition for the job or due to injury.&nbsp; It's one of the biggest question marks coming into the 2024 season once again, but the coaching staff believes they've already identified who QB1 is before he's taken his first regular season snap at the school.&nbsp; Head Coach Jay Long:

Saddleback College / San Diego State transfer DJ Ralph got to play with the team for the first time at the spring game at Wayne State in April. 

At RMAC Media Day Coach Long shared his excitement for what he sees in Ralph, as well as the excitement shown from his new teammates Tommy Thomas (WR) and Xavier Harrell (LB):

I talked to Ralph's former teammate at Saddleback and current Western Colorado starting QB Drew Nash at media day, and he had glowing things to report about Ralph as a person and a player.

 Following the spring session, veteran quarterback Mason Hamilton chose to end his football career with the Eagles and focus on finishing his degree according to Coach Long.

Despite shifting positions to wide receiver in the spring, Junior Preston Pearson took several snaps in the scrimmage at Wayne State but will remain on the outside catching passes rather than throwing them this fall.&nbsp; If needed, Pearson will be available to play QB should depth be hampered by injury, or if the Eagles decide they want to go to the QB power-run game with Pearson as they've done in the past.

Redshirt freshman Kasey Jones, true freshman Wyatt Sprague and JUCO transfer Miguel Larios are the other quarterbacks on the roster that will battle behind Ralph on the depth chart and look to standout in fall camp.

It'll be a fun position to watch unfold over the next few weeks in camp and during the season with another group of guys who all bring unique characteristics and varying experience to the position for this season and into the future.

By: Dave Collins Sports Director X: @DMCbroadcasting<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722893488889.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Chadron State opened fall football camp on Monday with 129 players registered and ready to begin the college football journey in 2024.&nbsp; According to CSC historian and reporter Con Marshall the preliminary roster includes 20 seniors, 26 juniors, 17 sophomores, 23 redshirt freshmen and 49 brand new freshmen. Thirty-eight of the returnees earned letters last year, when the Eagles finished with a 5-6 record overall and had a 4-5 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference mark.Since Dalton Holst's graduation two seasons ago the Eagles have used a revolving door at quarterback by design, competition for the job or due to injury.&nbsp; It's one of the biggest question marks coming into the 2024 season once again, but the coaching staff believes they've already identified who QB1 is before he's taken his first regular season snap at the school.&nbsp; Head Coach Jay Long:<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1889719155&color=%23601030&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=false"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/coach-long-on-qb-starter" title="Coach Long On QB Starter" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Coach Long On QB Starter</a></div></div>Saddleback College / San Diego State transfer DJ Ralph got to play with the team for the first time at the spring game at Wayne State in April. At RMAC Media Day Coach Long shared his excitement for what he sees in Ralph, as well as the excitement shown from his new teammates Tommy Thomas (WR) and Xavier Harrell (LB):<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1889725260&color=%23601030&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=false"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/coach-long-on-dj-ralph-leading" title="Coach Long On DJ Ralph Leading" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Coach Long On DJ Ralph Leading</a></div></div>I talked to Ralph's former teammate at Saddleback and current Western Colorado starting QB Drew Nash at media day, and he had glowing things to report about Ralph as a person and a player. Following the spring session, veteran quarterback Mason Hamilton chose to end his football career with the Eagles and focus on finishing his degree according to Coach Long.Despite shifting positions to wide receiver in the spring, Junior Preston Pearson took several snaps in the scrimmage at Wayne State but will remain on the outside catching passes rather than throwing them this fall.&nbsp; If needed, Pearson will be available to play QB should depth be hampered by injury, or if the Eagles decide they want to go to the QB power-run game with Pearson as they've done in the past.Redshirt freshman Kasey Jones, true freshman Wyatt Sprague and JUCO transfer Miguel Larios are the other quarterbacks on the roster that will battle behind Ralph on the depth chart and look to standout in fall camp.It'll be a fun position to watch unfold over the next few weeks in camp and during the season with another group of guys who all bring unique characteristics and varying experience to the position for this season and into the future.

🔊 Eagles heading into fall camp with starting QB known, competition for depth

University of Maryland Eastern Shore athletics

PRINCESS ANNE, Maryland — The University of Maryland Eastern Shore and head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://umeshawksports.com/sports/softball/roster/coaches/aaron-robinson/2447">Aaron Robinson</a>&nbsp;are thrilled to announce the addition of Janelle Higgins as an assistant coach to the softball program this season. Higgins brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Division I level, enhancing her impact on collegiate softball.

Coach Higgins, the esteemed head softball coach at North Platte Community College (NPCC), arrives at UMES with a distinguished record of excellence both on and off the field. Under her leadership, the North Platte Knights captured the Region IX Division II championships in 2012, 2015, 2017, and 2021, with Higgins earning Region IX Division II Coach of the Year honors each of those years. Her exceptional leadership was also recognized with the Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference Coach of the Year awards in 2012 and 2017, and she was named Co-Coach of the Year in 2016. Currently, Higgins serves as an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion region ambassador for the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA).

Her tenure at NPCC has been marked by remarkable achievements, including NCCAC championships in 2012 and 2017, co-conference championships in 2016, and NCCAC runner-up finishes in 2013 and 2015. Higgins has nurtured an impressive roster of athletes, with 39 Nebraska Community College All-Region IX athletes, 57 All-Region IX academic athletes, and numerous accolades, including NJCAA Academic Achievement awards, NFCA All-American Scholar honors, and NFCA All-Region Midwest recognitions.

Before her impactful role at NPCC, Higgins contributed her expertise at Dawson Community College in Glendive, Montana, where she served as the head softball coach, assistant basketball coach, faculty member, and director of Campus Corps. Under her leadership, the Lady Buccaneers achieved notable success, including a second-place finish in the Mon-Dak Conference and a fourth-place finish in the regional tournament. Higgins also held coaching positions at Southwestern Community College and Saydel High School, where she played a key role in leading her teams to state tournament appearances and high rankings.

Higgins holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Northwest Missouri State University and a Master of Science in Recreation and Sports Science from Ohio University. Her commitment to education and coaching is matched by her dedication to community service. She actively participates in numerous volunteer roles, including serving on various boards and committees, mentoring youth, and organizing charitable events. Her team's community involvement is extensive, ranging from supporting local events and charitable causes to hands-on projects like rebuilding city sports fields and hosting fundraisers.

A passionate advocate for making a positive impact, Higgins' leadership extends beyond the softball field. Her efforts significantly contribute to the welfare of her community, embodying her belief that sports and service go hand in hand.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722881072990.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>University of Maryland Eastern Shore athleticsPRINCESS ANNE, Maryland — The University of Maryland Eastern Shore and head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://umeshawksports.com/sports/softball/roster/coaches/aaron-robinson/2447">Aaron Robinson</a>&nbsp;are thrilled to announce the addition of Janelle Higgins as an assistant coach to the softball program this season. Higgins brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Division I level, enhancing her impact on collegiate softball.Coach Higgins, the esteemed head softball coach at North Platte Community College (NPCC), arrives at UMES with a distinguished record of excellence both on and off the field. Under her leadership, the North Platte Knights captured the Region IX Division II championships in 2012, 2015, 2017, and 2021, with Higgins earning Region IX Division II Coach of the Year honors each of those years. Her exceptional leadership was also recognized with the Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference Coach of the Year awards in 2012 and 2017, and she was named Co-Coach of the Year in 2016. Currently, Higgins serves as an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion region ambassador for the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA).Her tenure at NPCC has been marked by remarkable achievements, including NCCAC championships in 2012 and 2017, co-conference championships in 2016, and NCCAC runner-up finishes in 2013 and 2015. Higgins has nurtured an impressive roster of athletes, with 39 Nebraska Community College All-Region IX athletes, 57 All-Region IX academic athletes, and numerous accolades, including NJCAA Academic Achievement awards, NFCA All-American Scholar honors, and NFCA All-Region Midwest recognitions.Before her impactful role at NPCC, Higgins contributed her expertise at Dawson Community College in Glendive, Montana, where she served as the head softball coach, assistant basketball coach, faculty member, and director of Campus Corps. Under her leadership, the Lady Buccaneers achieved notable success, including a second-place finish in the Mon-Dak Conference and a fourth-place finish in the regional tournament. Higgins also held coaching positions at Southwestern Community College and Saydel High School, where she played a key role in leading her teams to state tournament appearances and high rankings.Higgins holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Northwest Missouri State University and a Master of Science in Recreation and Sports Science from Ohio University. Her commitment to education and coaching is matched by her dedication to community service. She actively participates in numerous volunteer roles, including serving on various boards and committees, mentoring youth, and organizing charitable events. Her team's community involvement is extensive, ranging from supporting local events and charitable causes to hands-on projects like rebuilding city sports fields and hosting fundraisers.A passionate advocate for making a positive impact, Higgins' leadership extends beyond the softball field. Her efforts significantly contribute to the welfare of her community, embodying her belief that sports and service go hand in hand.

Janelle Higgins named assistant softball coach at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Chadron State opens the football season at home on a Thursday night this month against rival Nebraska-Kearney (UNK). Eagles Head Coach Jay Long said at RMAC Media Day in Denver that the series will now feature a trophy the teams will play for and he announced that its name will sound familiar.

The Eagles will have back-to-back night contests before conference play begins, and the match-up against the rival Lopers will continue into the foreseeable future.

Senior defensive star Xavier Harrell has ridden thousands of miles on the team's charter buses over his career and is excited for several reasons to open the season at home for the Eagles' first three games.

I'll have much more coverage from media day as well as coverage from fall camp all month long leading up to kickoff of the season.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722893488889.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>By: Dave Collins Sports Director X: @DMCbroadcastingChadron State opens the football season at home on a Thursday night this month against rival Nebraska-Kearney (UNK). Eagles Head Coach Jay Long said at RMAC Media Day in Denver that the series will now feature a trophy the teams will play for and he announced that its name will sound familiar.<div><iframe width="100%" height="450" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1889531646&color=%23601030&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=false&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/coach-long-on-unk-good-life-trophy" title="Coach Long On UNK Good Life Trophy" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Coach Long On UNK Good Life Trophy</a></div></div>The Eagles will have back-to-back night contests before conference play begins, and the match-up against the rival Lopers will continue into the foreseeable future.<div><iframe width="100%" height="450" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1889536020&color=%23601030&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=false&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/coach-long-on-unk-3y-contract" title="Coach Long On UNK - 3Y Contract" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Coach Long On UNK - 3Y Contract</a></div></div>Senior defensive star Xavier Harrell has ridden thousands of miles on the team's charter buses over his career and is excited for several reasons to open the season at home for the Eagles' first three games.<div><iframe width="100%" height="450" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1889538732&color=%23601030&auto_play=false&hide_related=true&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=false&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/xavier-harrell-on-3-home-games-to-open" title="Xavier Harrell On 3 Home Games To Open Season" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Xavier Harrell On 3 Home Games To Open Season</a></div></div>I'll have much more coverage from media day as well as coverage from fall camp all month long leading up to kickoff of the season.

🔊 New rivalry trophy for CSC-UNK football series begins this fall

Nebraska defensive back Isaac Gifford was named to the 2024 to Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List on Thursday.&nbsp; The Wuerffel Trophy highlights athletic and community service accomplishments.

Gifford has been active in the Huskers’ Life Skills program, including volunteering extensively at the Lincoln Food Bank, speaking at schools and helping with hospital visits and the Huskers’ annual road race to race money for the fight against pediatric brain cancer. For his efforts, he received the Sam Foltz 27 Hero Leadership Award last spring. He was also named to the Tom Osborne and Brook Berringer Citizenship Teams for his work in the community.

On the field, Gifford is a two-year starter who has anchored the Huskers’ defensive backfield. An All-Big Ten performer in 2023, he led Nebraska with 86 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss. Gifford was also second on the Blackshirts with eight pass breakups. He played a major role in Nebraska ranking in the top-20 nationally in both total defense and scoring defense.

This season, the 11 semifinalists for the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy will be honored as part of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team.

The 2024 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy finalists and recipient will be selected by an illustrious national voting committee, including a fan vote component, and announced on ESPN’s Home Depot College Football Awards Show on December 12th.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Presentation Gala will take place February 1, 2025, at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska defensive back Isaac Gifford was named to the 2024 to Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List on Thursday.&nbsp; The Wuerffel Trophy highlights athletic and community service accomplishments.Gifford has been active in the Huskers’ Life Skills program, including volunteering extensively at the Lincoln Food Bank, speaking at schools and helping with hospital visits and the Huskers’ annual road race to race money for the fight against pediatric brain cancer. For his efforts, he received the Sam Foltz 27 Hero Leadership Award last spring. He was also named to the Tom Osborne and Brook Berringer Citizenship Teams for his work in the community.On the field, Gifford is a two-year starter who has anchored the Huskers’ defensive backfield. An All-Big Ten performer in 2023, he led Nebraska with 86 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss. Gifford was also second on the Blackshirts with eight pass breakups. He played a major role in Nebraska ranking in the top-20 nationally in both total defense and scoring defense.This season, the 11 semifinalists for the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy will be honored as part of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team.The 2024 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy finalists and recipient will be selected by an illustrious national voting committee, including a fan vote component, and announced on ESPN’s Home Depot College Football Awards Show on December 12th.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Presentation Gala will take place February 1, 2025, at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.

Gifford named to Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List

Five student-athletes from the Nebraska volleyball team were named to the Preseason All-Big Ten Team on Thursday after a vote by the league's 18 head coaches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/merritt-beason">Merritt Beason</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/lexi-rodriguez">Lexi Rodriguez</a>&nbsp;were unanimous selections to the 18-player Preseason All-Big Ten Team. They were joined by fellow Huskers&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/taylor-landfair">Taylor Landfair</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/harper-murray">Harper Murray</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bergen-reilly">Bergen Reilly</a>&nbsp;on the team. All five players were All-Big Ten selections in 2023. Seventeen of the 18 players on the team were either All-Big Ten or All-Pac 12 First Team selections last season. NU's five selections were the most for any team in the conference; no one else had more than three.&nbsp;

The coaches picked Nebraska as the top team in the preseason poll. The Huskers won their fourth Big Ten title in 2023 with a 19-1 conference record. Nebraska finished the season at 33-2 and reached the NCAA Championship match, falling 3-0 to Texas in Tampa, Fla. Wisconsin, Penn State, Purdue and Minnesota rounded out the top five, followed by three of the conference's newcomers in Oregon, USC and UCLA. &nbsp;

Beason earned AVCA All-America First Team honors in 2023 and was selected as the AVCA North Region Player of the Year, becoming the second Husker (<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/staff/kelly-hunter">Kelly Hunter</a>) to earn that distinction. She was named to the AVCA All-Region Team and All-Big Ten First Team unanimously in her first year at Nebraska. Beason averaged 3.76 kills per set on .282 hitting with 2.05 digs per set.&nbsp;

Rodriguez also was named to the AVCA All-America First Team in 2023, her third career All-America honor and second selection to the first team. She became the 14th Husker in school history to earn at least three All-America honors at Nebraska. The Sterling, Ill., native also was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year for the second time in her career, becoming the fifth player in Big Ten history to receive that honor twice in a career. She was chosen to the AVCA All-Region and All-Big Ten First Team for the third straight year. Rodriguez led the Huskers to a nation-leading opponent hitting percentage for the second year in a row with 3.60 digs per set.&nbsp;

At Minnesota last season, Landfair earned AVCA All-Region honors and All-Big Ten First Team accolades for the third time. She averaged 3.19 kills and 2.03 digs per set for the Golden Gophers. Landfair was a first-team AVCA All-American and the Big Ten Player of the Year in 2022, as well as the AVCA North Region Player of the Year.&nbsp;

Murray was an AVCA All-America Third Team selection and the Big Ten Freshman of the Year. She earned AVCA North Region Freshman of the Year, as well as All-Big Ten First Team, Big Ten All-Freshman Team and AVCA All-Region accolades. Murray finished second on the team with 3.23 kills per set and had a .237 hitting percentage to go with 2.07 digs per set and a team-high 36 service aces.&nbsp;

Reilly was named an AVCA Second-Team All-American, AVCA All-Region, Big Ten Setter of the Year, All-Big Ten First Team and Big Ten All-Freshman Team in her first season as a Husker. She became the first freshman to win Big Ten Setter of the Year since the award originated in 2012. Reilly led all Big Ten setters with 10.51 assists per set, and set the Huskers to a .273 hitting percentage on the season, which ranked second in the Big Ten and in the top 25 nationally.&nbsp;

2024 BIG TEN VOLLEYBALL PRESEASON POLL1. Nebraska2. Wisconsin3. Penn State4. Purdue5. Minnesota6. Oregon7. USC8. UCLA9. Ohio State10. Indiana11. Illinois12. Michigan State13. Washington14. Maryland15. Michigan16. Northwestern17. Rutgers18. Iowa

2024 PRESEASON ALL-BIG TEN TEAMRaina Terry, Gr., OH, IllinoisCamryn Haworth, Sr., S, IndianaMelani Shaffmaster, RS-Sr., S, Minnesota<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/merritt-beason">MERRITT BEASON</a>, Sr., OPP, Nebraska<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/taylor-landfair">Taylor Landfair</a>, Sr., OH, Nebraska<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/harper-murray">Harper Murray</a>, So., OH, Nebraska<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bergen-reilly">Bergen Reilly</a>, So., S, Nebraska<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/lexi-rodriguez">LEXI RODRIGUEZ</a>, Sr., L, NebraskaEmily Londot, Fifth-Year, OH/OPP, Ohio StateMimi Colyer, Jr., OH, OregonJESS MRUZIK, Gr., OH, Penn StateChloe Chicoine, So., OH, PurdueEva Hudson, Jr., OH, PurdueAnna Dodson, Gr., MB, UCLAMia Tuaniga, Sr., S, USCCarter Booth, Jr., MB, WisconsinSarah Franklin, Sr., OH, WisconsinAnna Smrek, Sr., MB/OPP, Wisconsin

Unanimous selection listed in ALL CAPS

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsFive student-athletes from the Nebraska volleyball team were named to the Preseason All-Big Ten Team on Thursday after a vote by the league's 18 head coaches.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/merritt-beason">Merritt Beason</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/lexi-rodriguez">Lexi Rodriguez</a>&nbsp;were unanimous selections to the 18-player Preseason All-Big Ten Team. They were joined by fellow Huskers&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/taylor-landfair">Taylor Landfair</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/harper-murray">Harper Murray</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bergen-reilly">Bergen Reilly</a>&nbsp;on the team. All five players were All-Big Ten selections in 2023. Seventeen of the 18 players on the team were either All-Big Ten or All-Pac 12 First Team selections last season. NU's five selections were the most for any team in the conference; no one else had more than three.&nbsp;The coaches picked Nebraska as the top team in the preseason poll. The Huskers won their fourth Big Ten title in 2023 with a 19-1 conference record. Nebraska finished the season at 33-2 and reached the NCAA Championship match, falling 3-0 to Texas in Tampa, Fla. Wisconsin, Penn State, Purdue and Minnesota rounded out the top five, followed by three of the conference's newcomers in Oregon, USC and UCLA. &nbsp;Beason earned AVCA All-America First Team honors in 2023 and was selected as the AVCA North Region Player of the Year, becoming the second Husker (<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/staff/kelly-hunter">Kelly Hunter</a>) to earn that distinction. She was named to the AVCA All-Region Team and All-Big Ten First Team unanimously in her first year at Nebraska. Beason averaged 3.76 kills per set on .282 hitting with 2.05 digs per set.&nbsp;Rodriguez also was named to the AVCA All-America First Team in 2023, her third career All-America honor and second selection to the first team. She became the 14th Husker in school history to earn at least three All-America honors at Nebraska. The Sterling, Ill., native also was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year for the second time in her career, becoming the fifth player in Big Ten history to receive that honor twice in a career. She was chosen to the AVCA All-Region and All-Big Ten First Team for the third straight year. Rodriguez led the Huskers to a nation-leading opponent hitting percentage for the second year in a row with 3.60 digs per set.&nbsp;At Minnesota last season, Landfair earned AVCA All-Region honors and All-Big Ten First Team accolades for the third time. She averaged 3.19 kills and 2.03 digs per set for the Golden Gophers. Landfair was a first-team AVCA All-American and the Big Ten Player of the Year in 2022, as well as the AVCA North Region Player of the Year.&nbsp;Murray was an AVCA All-America Third Team selection and the Big Ten Freshman of the Year. She earned AVCA North Region Freshman of the Year, as well as All-Big Ten First Team, Big Ten All-Freshman Team and AVCA All-Region accolades. Murray finished second on the team with 3.23 kills per set and had a .237 hitting percentage to go with 2.07 digs per set and a team-high 36 service aces.&nbsp;Reilly was named an AVCA Second-Team All-American, AVCA All-Region, Big Ten Setter of the Year, All-Big Ten First Team and Big Ten All-Freshman Team in her first season as a Husker. She became the first freshman to win Big Ten Setter of the Year since the award originated in 2012. Reilly led all Big Ten setters with 10.51 assists per set, and set the Huskers to a .273 hitting percentage on the season, which ranked second in the Big Ten and in the top 25 nationally.&nbsp;2024 BIG TEN VOLLEYBALL PRESEASON POLL1. Nebraska2. Wisconsin3. Penn State4. Purdue5. Minnesota6. Oregon7. USC8. UCLA9. Ohio State10. Indiana11. Illinois12. Michigan State13. Washington14. Maryland15. Michigan16. Northwestern17. Rutgers18. Iowa2024 PRESEASON ALL-BIG TEN TEAMRaina Terry, Gr., OH, IllinoisCamryn Haworth, Sr., S, IndianaMelani Shaffmaster, RS-Sr., S, Minnesota<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/merritt-beason">MERRITT BEASON</a>, Sr., OPP, Nebraska<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/taylor-landfair">Taylor Landfair</a>, Sr., OH, Nebraska<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/harper-murray">Harper Murray</a>, So., OH, Nebraska<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/bergen-reilly">Bergen Reilly</a>, So., S, Nebraska<a target="_blank" href="https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/roster/player/lexi-rodriguez">LEXI RODRIGUEZ</a>, Sr., L, NebraskaEmily Londot, Fifth-Year, OH/OPP, Ohio StateMimi Colyer, Jr., OH, OregonJESS MRUZIK, Gr., OH, Penn StateChloe Chicoine, So., OH, PurdueEva Hudson, Jr., OH, PurdueAnna Dodson, Gr., MB, UCLAMia Tuaniga, Sr., S, USCCarter Booth, Jr., MB, WisconsinSarah Franklin, Sr., OH, WisconsinAnna Smrek, Sr., MB/OPP, WisconsinUnanimous selection listed in ALL CAPS

Five Huskers named to Preseason All-Big Ten Team

Story by Omaha Supernovas Communication

OMAHA, Neb.&nbsp;– The&nbsp;Omaha Supernovas, Nebraska’s professional volleyball team and inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation Champions, have signed former Creighton libero&nbsp;Allison Whitten.&nbsp;

The South Carolina native spent her fifth and final season of college volleyball with Creighton. Under head coach&nbsp;Kirsten Bernthal Booth, Whitten served as the team’s libero for each set of the 2022 season that saw the Bluejays reach the NCAA Tournament.

"We are thrilled to welcome Allison back to Omaha as she joins the Supernovas. As a former Bluejay with robust experience at a high level, Allison will be a fantastic addition to our team,” said Supernovas Head Coach&nbsp;Laura “Bird” Kuhn. “Her all gas and no brakes mentality are a perfect fit for our roster and aligns seamlessly with our culture as we build towards the 2025 season."&nbsp;

A four-year starting transfer from Morehead State, Whitten quickly excelled when inserted into Creighton’s lineup, recording 3.65 digs per set across 26 matches which included a season-high 29 against Florida State. She totaled 2,289 career digs which wound up being sixth on the active players list that season.&nbsp;

Prior to Creighton, Whitten became one of the best liberos in Morehead State’s history, racking up 1,823 digs and a 4.37 digs per set mark across four seasons for the Eagles. That also included 103 aces and 149 assists. She would become the 27th member of Morehead State’s 1,000 dig club and had her senior season rank inside the top five for most digs in a single campaign with 577 digs in 119 sets.&nbsp;

“Allison Whitten is a special player and an even more special person,” said Bernthal Booth. “She is going to work hard every day to be the best she can be, and she will always have the team at the forefront of any decision she makes. The Supernovas are adding a great one and I’m thrilled she’ll be here in Omaha.”&nbsp;

Whitten also has a prolific high school background as one of the best volleyball players to come out of South Carolina. She won an unprecedented six state titles with two coming from Hillcrest High School and the other four from St. Joeseph's High School. She was a two-time South Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year nominee and was named the 1A Player of the Year in 2015 and the 2A Player of the Year in 2016. Whitten piled up more than 1,000 career kills and digs while being a finalist for PrepVolleyball’s National Freshman, Sophomore and Junior Player of the Year.&nbsp;

Whitten becomes the second libero to join the Supernovas roster and 12th overall addition this offseason. Whitten joins&nbsp;Camila Gómez&nbsp;as the other libero. Gómez signed from the Grand Rapids Rise who lost to the Supernovas in the inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation Championship in May.&nbsp;

To keep up to date who the Supernovas have signed in the PVF Free Agency period, check out the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Xl1qUBfd6pkjXrzJThV43X0tseLnJBaq7bbBQs9MEpnN8Z5LMCYBkpitZrQqneujgqefrBEI5ZSY8Gl0dpL36c2QoWwCVkHPwSkmYAqLHN5BGP6CEPG0jAA3TXzxJYd6NA-bNqiEHtAgcx_DTpdDdBiCtcz6CmItVh43cGcJo_akKNSddoeSGeTe2VdfI7xCq12M2fzYI1ThM_ZftiNd7fVRSX2bwXqJ&amp;c=E9IjFAwlqbP6zw4FjO74n967_3N-66Ny8UQqIsL86EJ5MTDh79cicQ==&amp;ch=aSNkozJhsVKxu0nnuXdhDIAhHccDVbJvRi5PbILJS5e2ZKkWvTIE1w==">Supernovas Free Agency Live Tracker.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

To celebrate the first-ever PVF Championship, fans will be able to see the Supernovas and championship trophy as part of the Championship Trophy Tour. Please click this&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Xl1qUBfd6pkjXrzJThV43X0tseLnJBaq7bbBQs9MEpnN8Z5LMCYBkkWLMMvfOpIc0OIqzw3Aon6KNcjfNOJatYYQS0dcAEasz8e_tVYQA7Dtc7wTox0L0VwoR-VzucPjTdHUhYbOUw7V6DgfTxNHHyWl1J-X0ZHEbIVQVQbR7lHVSgK3NXnKBQBDj09drSav&amp;c=E9IjFAwlqbP6zw4FjO74n967_3N-66Ny8UQqIsL86EJ5MTDh79cicQ==&amp;ch=aSNkozJhsVKxu0nnuXdhDIAhHccDVbJvRi5PbILJS5e2ZKkWvTIE1w==">link</a>&nbsp;to see where the Supernovas are this summer!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Season tickets are now on sale! For more information on becoming a 2025 season ticket member, visit the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Xl1qUBfd6pkjXrzJThV43X0tseLnJBaq7bbBQs9MEpnN8Z5LMCYBkrFENv3VWGSrWHUBuI4dYghuyj7Sg9cxOQJHvZAzrzEnwDKrZtgzansOFcIK0DboPmAttW_pzcS-19UuSRFSHNM-MaDmSjjErmvh2eGXQBWKDBNSORNWGrY=&amp;c=E9IjFAwlqbP6zw4FjO74n967_3N-66Ny8UQqIsL86EJ5MTDh79cicQ==&amp;ch=aSNkozJhsVKxu0nnuXdhDIAhHccDVbJvRi5PbILJS5e2ZKkWvTIE1w==">Supernovas Ticket FAQ page</a>&nbsp;or by calling 402-502-5268.&nbsp;

Story by Omaha Supernovas CommunicationOMAHA, Neb.&nbsp;– The&nbsp;Omaha Supernovas, Nebraska’s professional volleyball team and inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation Champions, have signed former Creighton libero&nbsp;Allison Whitten.&nbsp;The South Carolina native spent her fifth and final season of college volleyball with Creighton. Under head coach&nbsp;Kirsten Bernthal Booth, Whitten served as the team’s libero for each set of the 2022 season that saw the Bluejays reach the NCAA Tournament."We are thrilled to welcome Allison back to Omaha as she joins the Supernovas. As a former Bluejay with robust experience at a high level, Allison will be a fantastic addition to our team,” said Supernovas Head Coach&nbsp;Laura “Bird” Kuhn. “Her all gas and no brakes mentality are a perfect fit for our roster and aligns seamlessly with our culture as we build towards the 2025 season."&nbsp;A four-year starting transfer from Morehead State, Whitten quickly excelled when inserted into Creighton’s lineup, recording 3.65 digs per set across 26 matches which included a season-high 29 against Florida State. She totaled 2,289 career digs which wound up being sixth on the active players list that season.&nbsp;Prior to Creighton, Whitten became one of the best liberos in Morehead State’s history, racking up 1,823 digs and a 4.37 digs per set mark across four seasons for the Eagles. That also included 103 aces and 149 assists. She would become the 27th member of Morehead State’s 1,000 dig club and had her senior season rank inside the top five for most digs in a single campaign with 577 digs in 119 sets.&nbsp;“Allison Whitten is a special player and an even more special person,” said Bernthal Booth. “She is going to work hard every day to be the best she can be, and she will always have the team at the forefront of any decision she makes. The Supernovas are adding a great one and I’m thrilled she’ll be here in Omaha.”&nbsp;Whitten also has a prolific high school background as one of the best volleyball players to come out of South Carolina. She won an unprecedented six state titles with two coming from Hillcrest High School and the other four from St. Joeseph's High School. She was a two-time South Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year nominee and was named the 1A Player of the Year in 2015 and the 2A Player of the Year in 2016. Whitten piled up more than 1,000 career kills and digs while being a finalist for PrepVolleyball’s National Freshman, Sophomore and Junior Player of the Year.&nbsp;Whitten becomes the second libero to join the Supernovas roster and 12th overall addition this offseason. Whitten joins&nbsp;Camila Gómez&nbsp;as the other libero. Gómez signed from the Grand Rapids Rise who lost to the Supernovas in the inaugural Pro Volleyball Federation Championship in May.&nbsp;To keep up to date who the Supernovas have signed in the PVF Free Agency period, check out the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Xl1qUBfd6pkjXrzJThV43X0tseLnJBaq7bbBQs9MEpnN8Z5LMCYBkpitZrQqneujgqefrBEI5ZSY8Gl0dpL36c2QoWwCVkHPwSkmYAqLHN5BGP6CEPG0jAA3TXzxJYd6NA-bNqiEHtAgcx_DTpdDdBiCtcz6CmItVh43cGcJo_akKNSddoeSGeTe2VdfI7xCq12M2fzYI1ThM_ZftiNd7fVRSX2bwXqJ&amp;c=E9IjFAwlqbP6zw4FjO74n967_3N-66Ny8UQqIsL86EJ5MTDh79cicQ==&amp;ch=aSNkozJhsVKxu0nnuXdhDIAhHccDVbJvRi5PbILJS5e2ZKkWvTIE1w==">Supernovas Free Agency Live Tracker.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;To celebrate the first-ever PVF Championship, fans will be able to see the Supernovas and championship trophy as part of the Championship Trophy Tour. Please click this&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Xl1qUBfd6pkjXrzJThV43X0tseLnJBaq7bbBQs9MEpnN8Z5LMCYBkkWLMMvfOpIc0OIqzw3Aon6KNcjfNOJatYYQS0dcAEasz8e_tVYQA7Dtc7wTox0L0VwoR-VzucPjTdHUhYbOUw7V6DgfTxNHHyWl1J-X0ZHEbIVQVQbR7lHVSgK3NXnKBQBDj09drSav&amp;c=E9IjFAwlqbP6zw4FjO74n967_3N-66Ny8UQqIsL86EJ5MTDh79cicQ==&amp;ch=aSNkozJhsVKxu0nnuXdhDIAhHccDVbJvRi5PbILJS5e2ZKkWvTIE1w==">link</a>&nbsp;to see where the Supernovas are this summer!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Season tickets are now on sale! For more information on becoming a 2025 season ticket member, visit the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://db9xbvgbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Xl1qUBfd6pkjXrzJThV43X0tseLnJBaq7bbBQs9MEpnN8Z5LMCYBkrFENv3VWGSrWHUBuI4dYghuyj7Sg9cxOQJHvZAzrzEnwDKrZtgzansOFcIK0DboPmAttW_pzcS-19UuSRFSHNM-MaDmSjjErmvh2eGXQBWKDBNSORNWGrY=&amp;c=E9IjFAwlqbP6zw4FjO74n967_3N-66Ny8UQqIsL86EJ5MTDh79cicQ==&amp;ch=aSNkozJhsVKxu0nnuXdhDIAhHccDVbJvRi5PbILJS5e2ZKkWvTIE1w==">Supernovas Ticket FAQ page</a>&nbsp;or by calling 402-502-5268.&nbsp;

Supernovas sign former Creighton Libero Allison Whitten 

ROSEMONT, Ill.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Big Ten Conference announced Wednesday that Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis will host the 2025 TIAA Big Ten Women’s and Men’s Basketball Tournaments, with future events headed to United Center in Chicago, T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.

“We look forward to partnering with the cities of Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis, and Las Vegas as they host the Big Ten Basketball Tournaments from 2025-28,” said Big Ten Commissioner, Tony Petitti. “Each city will be an exciting postseason opportunity for our student-athletes, coaches, and fans, both locally and from across the country.”

The 2025 TIAA Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament will take place March 5-9, followed by the 2025 TIAA Men’s Basketball Tournament from March 12-16. The events will be the first to feature a 15-team field following the additions of Oregon, UCLA, USC and Washington this summer.

The Big Ten also announced basketball tournament locations for 2026-28. The women’s tournament will remain in Indianapolis in 2026 before moving to Las Vegas in 2027 and Detroit in 2028. The Big Ten will host the men’s tournament in Chicago for the 12th&nbsp;time in 2026, return to Indianapolis in 2027, and head to Las Vegas in 2028. This will mark the first time Big Ten Tournaments will be held in Las Vegas or Detroit.

The TIAA Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament&nbsp;returns&nbsp;to Indianapolis next season, where it has been&nbsp;held&nbsp;27 times since the tournament began in 1982. Eight different programs have claimed&nbsp;a&nbsp;tournament title,&nbsp;with Iowa winning the last three tournament championships.

The TIAA Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament&nbsp;is back in&nbsp;Indianapolis for the 14th time. Seven different teams have claimed the Big Ten Tournament title since the inaugural event in 1998, including Illinois&nbsp;winning&nbsp;its fourth tournament championship in 2024.

An overview of future Big Ten Women’s and Men’s Basketball Tournament sites can be found below.

Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament Future Sites:

Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament Future Sites:

Story by Big Ten CommunicationsROSEMONT, Ill.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Big Ten Conference announced Wednesday that Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis will host the 2025 TIAA Big Ten Women’s and Men’s Basketball Tournaments, with future events headed to United Center in Chicago, T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.“We look forward to partnering with the cities of Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis, and Las Vegas as they host the Big Ten Basketball Tournaments from 2025-28,” said Big Ten Commissioner, Tony Petitti. “Each city will be an exciting postseason opportunity for our student-athletes, coaches, and fans, both locally and from across the country.”The 2025 TIAA Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament will take place March 5-9, followed by the 2025 TIAA Men’s Basketball Tournament from March 12-16. The events will be the first to feature a 15-team field following the additions of Oregon, UCLA, USC and Washington this summer.The Big Ten also announced basketball tournament locations for 2026-28. The women’s tournament will remain in Indianapolis in 2026 before moving to Las Vegas in 2027 and Detroit in 2028. The Big Ten will host the men’s tournament in Chicago for the 12th&nbsp;time in 2026, return to Indianapolis in 2027, and head to Las Vegas in 2028. This will mark the first time Big Ten Tournaments will be held in Las Vegas or Detroit.The TIAA Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament&nbsp;returns&nbsp;to Indianapolis next season, where it has been&nbsp;held&nbsp;27 times since the tournament began in 1982. Eight different programs have claimed&nbsp;a&nbsp;tournament title,&nbsp;with Iowa winning the last three tournament championships.The TIAA Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament&nbsp;is back in&nbsp;Indianapolis for the 14th time. Seven different teams have claimed the Big Ten Tournament title since the inaugural event in 1998, including Illinois&nbsp;winning&nbsp;its fourth tournament championship in 2024.An overview of future Big Ten Women’s and Men’s Basketball Tournament sites can be found below.Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament Future Sites:<ul>
 <li>March 5-9, 2025 – Gainbridge Fieldhouse (Indianapolis)</li><li>March 4-8, 2026 – Gainbridge Fieldhouse (Indianapolis)</li><li>March 3-7, 2027 – T-Mobile Arena (Las Vegas)</li><li>March 1-5, 2028 – Little Caesars Arena (Detroit)</li>
 </ul>Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament Future Sites:<ul>
 <li>March 12-16, 2025 – Gainbridge Fieldhouse (Indianapolis)</li><li>March 11-15, 2026 – United Center (Chicago)</li><li>March 10-14, 2027 – Gainbridge Fieldhouse (Indianapolis)</li><li>March 8-12, 2028 – T-Mobile Arena (Las Vegas)</li>
 </ul>

Big Ten Conference announces 2025-28 Basketball Tournament sites

Nebraska Soccer Head Coach John Walker announced Wednesday that 2023 Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year Ellie Felt will transfer from Oregon State and join the Huskers in January of 2025.&nbsp;

A Portland, Oregon native, Felt has an impressive resume as she played in the 2022 High School All-American Game, was named to the Sports Illustrated Best High School Players in the Nation last year and earned two-time All-American honors. Additionally, she was a two-time USA Today HSSA Girls Soccer Player of the Year and Metro League Player of the Year.&nbsp;

On the club side, the midfielder competed for Coach Joaquim Capuia at Portland Thorns Academy where she was ranked top five nationwide in assists and was named to the Best 11 for the Northwest Conference, three-time All-American USCA for Club Youth Girls, ECNL All-Conference in 2022 and 2023, and an IMG Top 150 Players in the U.S. for 2024 graduates.&nbsp;

“I chose Nebraska because of the incredible coaching staff and their ability to develop players to the next level, as well as the hard working and competitive culture of the girls,” Felt said. “I also appreciate the support that Nebraska provides their athletes to help them succeed at the highest level.”

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska Soccer Head Coach John Walker announced Wednesday that 2023 Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year Ellie Felt will transfer from Oregon State and join the Huskers in January of 2025.&nbsp;A Portland, Oregon native, Felt has an impressive resume as she played in the 2022 High School All-American Game, was named to the Sports Illustrated Best High School Players in the Nation last year and earned two-time All-American honors. Additionally, she was a two-time USA Today HSSA Girls Soccer Player of the Year and Metro League Player of the Year.&nbsp;On the club side, the midfielder competed for Coach Joaquim Capuia at Portland Thorns Academy where she was ranked top five nationwide in assists and was named to the Best 11 for the Northwest Conference, three-time All-American USCA for Club Youth Girls, ECNL All-Conference in 2022 and 2023, and an IMG Top 150 Players in the U.S. for 2024 graduates.&nbsp;“I chose Nebraska because of the incredible coaching staff and their ability to develop players to the next level, as well as the hard working and competitive culture of the girls,” Felt said. “I also appreciate the support that Nebraska provides their athletes to help them succeed at the highest level.”