NPHS Signing Day 2023

Head Coach Janelle Higgins sat down with Sports Director Paxton Gordon to talk all things knights softball.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655146989142.png" alt="NP Post Podcast Sponsored by Kubota" />
 <figcaption>NP Post Podcast Sponsored by Kubota</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="North Platte Post Sports Network: Head Coach Janelle Higgins 4-19-2023" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=z9555-13e867b-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=1&fonts=Times%20New%20Roman&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00"></iframe></div>Head Coach Janelle Higgins sat down with Sports Director Paxton Gordon to talk all things knights softball.

North Platte Post Sports Network: Head Coach Janelle Higgins 4-19-2023

Story by NPCC Athletic Communications

Knights Softball lost both games of a home doubleheader Tuesday afternoon – falling 10-0 and 12-3 to McCook Community College.

North Platte Community College watched the first game slip away early. The Knights struggled to put runs on the board and had a tough time defensively containing MCC despite running wild on the base paths with five stolen bases. Nancy Martinez stole two.

Angelina Lockhart toed the rubber for North Platte. The pitcher lasted three and a third innings, allowing four hits and six runs. Taelyn Dakamas threw one and two-thirds innings in relief out of the bullpen.

Kelsey Woodhouse led NPCC with one hit in two at bats. She had a single in the fifth inning.

The Knights out hit McCook eight to six in the second game – with Martinez, Elena Montoya and April Grace each collecting two. NPCC also put up three runs in the fifth inning, led by Martinez, Grace and Krysta-Lyn Lewis all of whom had RBIs.

Dakamas led things off in the pitcher’s circle for the Knights. The righty surrendered five runs on four hits over three innings, striking out two. Lockhart threw four innings out of the bullpen.

“We played very scared to lose today and it showed,” said NPCC Head Softball Coach Janelle Higgins. “We put so much pressure on ourselves and try to control too much of the game instead of just having fun. With the inconsistency of our schedule this year, when we do get to play, they are trying so hard to be perfect in a game of failure. Tomorrow is a new day and a day to be better.”

The Knights will travel to Beatrice Friday where they will battle Southeast Community College in a doubleheader beginning at 1 p.m.

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsKnights Softball lost both games of a home doubleheader Tuesday afternoon – falling 10-0 and 12-3 to McCook Community College.North Platte Community College watched the first game slip away early. The Knights struggled to put runs on the board and had a tough time defensively containing MCC despite running wild on the base paths with five stolen bases. Nancy Martinez stole two.Angelina Lockhart toed the rubber for North Platte. The pitcher lasted three and a third innings, allowing four hits and six runs. Taelyn Dakamas threw one and two-thirds innings in relief out of the bullpen.Kelsey Woodhouse led NPCC with one hit in two at bats. She had a single in the fifth inning.The Knights out hit McCook eight to six in the second game – with Martinez, Elena Montoya and April Grace each collecting two. NPCC also put up three runs in the fifth inning, led by Martinez, Grace and Krysta-Lyn Lewis all of whom had RBIs.Dakamas led things off in the pitcher’s circle for the Knights. The righty surrendered five runs on four hits over three innings, striking out two. Lockhart threw four innings out of the bullpen.“We played very scared to lose today and it showed,” said NPCC Head Softball Coach Janelle Higgins. “We put so much pressure on ourselves and try to control too much of the game instead of just having fun. With the inconsistency of our schedule this year, when we do get to play, they are trying so hard to be perfect in a game of failure. Tomorrow is a new day and a day to be better.”The Knights will travel to Beatrice Friday where they will battle Southeast Community College in a doubleheader beginning at 1 p.m.

 Knights Softball drops doubleheader against McCook

NPCC Softball: McCook Community College Vs. North Platte Community College

Redshirt senior&nbsp;Kyleigh&nbsp;Lay threw 6.1 innings of strong relief in game two and Central Missouri scored four times with two outs in the fourth in game one to sweep a double header from Nebraska-Kearney,&nbsp;<a href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2023/central-missouri/boxscore/7345" target="_blank">7-2</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2023/central-missouri/boxscore/7346" target="_blank">9-3</a>, Monday in Warrensburg. The Jennies improve to 31-14 (15-7) which includes a 14-6 home mark. The&nbsp;Lopers, meanwhile, are 15-27 (6-12) with 34 of their games played away from Kearney. This double dip was originally scheduled for Saturday but pushed back due to inclement weather over the weekend. In game one, a big fourth inning started with a two-out, run scoring single up the middle. A single, hit-by-pitch, single and walked followed to make it 5-0 Jens. UCM finished with 10 singles among 12 hits with the top two hitters in the order going a combined 4 for 5 with three runs and two RBI's. Redshirt sophomore Paige&nbsp;Petefish&nbsp;(10-3) scattered five hits and fanned seven over six full innings. Sophomore shortstop and leadoff hitter&nbsp;Sydney Thomason&nbsp;(2 for 3) belted a two-run shot in the sixth to get UNK on the scoreboard. It snapped a 15-game homerless stretch for the Lopers. The Blue &amp; Gold came out hot in the night cap as they ran UCM's top pitcher, Andi Siebeneck, after only two thirds of an inning. She entered the day with nine wins and leading the team in ERA (2.45) and shutouts (four). Wahoo freshman infielder&nbsp;Mary Chvatal&nbsp;had an RBI single, Colorado sophomore&nbsp;Jaiden Harteker&nbsp;delivered an RBI double to left center with Lincoln sophomore first baseman&nbsp;Leah Jurgens&nbsp;belting a run scoring triple to right. However, Lay (4-1) came in and allowed only two hits and two walks the rest of the way. UCM chipped away at the 3-0 deficit by scoring single runs in the first and third innings and then tallied two runs after two were out in the fourth. Senior center fielder and nine-hole hitter Peyton Corrigan brought home the go-ahead with a double down the right field line. The big hit came on a full count. The Jens then busted things open with a five-run sixth. The big blow was a three-run shot to left by pinch hitter MaKenzie Cooper. Finally, grad transfer and third baseman Jessica Sader went 3 for 3 from the six hole. For UNK, Thomason (Ripon, Calif.) was 2 for 3 with a run scored with freshman left fielder&nbsp;Anna Reiling&nbsp;(Kearney) having a double. The Lopers head to nationally-ranked Central Oklahoma on Friday and then play Newman Saturday in Wichita.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Story by UNK Athletic CommunicationsRedshirt senior&nbsp;Kyleigh&nbsp;Lay threw 6.1 innings of strong relief in game two and Central Missouri scored four times with two outs in the fourth in game one to sweep a double header from Nebraska-Kearney,&nbsp;<a href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2023/central-missouri/boxscore/7345" target="_blank">7-2</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lopers.com/sports/softball/stats/2023/central-missouri/boxscore/7346" target="_blank">9-3</a>, Monday in Warrensburg. The Jennies improve to 31-14 (15-7) which includes a 14-6 home mark. The&nbsp;Lopers, meanwhile, are 15-27 (6-12) with 34 of their games played away from Kearney. This double dip was originally scheduled for Saturday but pushed back due to inclement weather over the weekend. In game one, a big fourth inning started with a two-out, run scoring single up the middle. A single, hit-by-pitch, single and walked followed to make it 5-0 Jens. UCM finished with 10 singles among 12 hits with the top two hitters in the order going a combined 4 for 5 with three runs and two RBI's. Redshirt sophomore Paige&nbsp;Petefish&nbsp;(10-3) scattered five hits and fanned seven over six full innings. Sophomore shortstop and leadoff hitter&nbsp;Sydney Thomason&nbsp;(2 for 3) belted a two-run shot in the sixth to get UNK on the scoreboard. It snapped a 15-game homerless stretch for the Lopers. The Blue &amp; Gold came out hot in the night cap as they ran UCM's top pitcher, Andi Siebeneck, after only two thirds of an inning. She entered the day with nine wins and leading the team in ERA (2.45) and shutouts (four). Wahoo freshman infielder&nbsp;Mary Chvatal&nbsp;had an RBI single, Colorado sophomore&nbsp;Jaiden Harteker&nbsp;delivered an RBI double to left center with Lincoln sophomore first baseman&nbsp;Leah Jurgens&nbsp;belting a run scoring triple to right. However, Lay (4-1) came in and allowed only two hits and two walks the rest of the way. UCM chipped away at the 3-0 deficit by scoring single runs in the first and third innings and then tallied two runs after two were out in the fourth. Senior center fielder and nine-hole hitter Peyton Corrigan brought home the go-ahead with a double down the right field line. The big hit came on a full count. The Jens then busted things open with a five-run sixth. The big blow was a three-run shot to left by pinch hitter MaKenzie Cooper. Finally, grad transfer and third baseman Jessica Sader went 3 for 3 from the six hole. For UNK, Thomason (Ripon, Calif.) was 2 for 3 with a run scored with freshman left fielder&nbsp;Anna Reiling&nbsp;(Kearney) having a double. The Lopers head to nationally-ranked Central Oklahoma on Friday and then play Newman Saturday in Wichita.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lopers head to UCO and NU this weekend

A long-time NCAA Division I assistant with a track record of success around the country, Julian&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;will join&nbsp;the Nebraska women's basketball staff for the 2023-24 season, Head Coach Amy Williams announced on Monday, April 17. Assibey&nbsp;(pronounced ah-SEE-bay) comes to Lincoln after spending the past three years as an assistant coach at Florida, where he helped the Gators to three consecutive postseason berths.&nbsp;In his first season (2020-21) in Gainesville,&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;helped the Gators to their first&nbsp;postseason berth since a 2016 NCAA Tournament bid, and their first postseason victory since 2014. In 2021-22,&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;helped guide the Gators to a 21-11 record and a trip to the first round of the NCAA Tournament. In 2022-23, Florida finished with a 19-15 overall record that included three wins to advance to the Postseason&nbsp;WNIT&nbsp;Great Eight. "We are very excited to add Julian, his wife&nbsp;Kaylee, and son's Malachi and Elijah to our Husker women's basketball family," Williams said. "Julian is a high-energy, passionate coach and a dynamic recruiter. His 16 years of collegiate coaching experience coupled with his values and integrity make him the perfect person to positively impact our student-athletes through the game of basketball." Assibey&nbsp;went to Florida after spending four successful seasons (2016-2020) at Montana State, where he helped the Bobcats to a pair of Big Sky regular-season titles and one conference tournament crown. In addition to his assistant coaching duties,&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;served as the recruiting coordinator for the Bobcats, who produced nine all-conference honorees including a pair of Big Sky players of the year in his four seasons. In 2019-20, Montana State produced one of the best seasons in school history, finishing with a 25-6 record that including a Big Sky regular-season title with a 19-1 mark. The Bobcats advanced to the Big Sky Tournament title game against Idaho, but the game was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;Fallyn&nbsp;Freije&nbsp;was named the 2020 Big Sky Player of the Year. In&nbsp;Assibey's&nbsp;first year at Montana State (2016-17), the Bobcats rolled to Big Sky regular-season and tournament titles, led by league player of the year Peyton Ferris. The Bobcats earned an automatic bid to the 2017 NCAA Tournament and finished the season with a 25-7 record that included a 15-3 Big Sky mark. Assibey&nbsp;previously served the 2014-15 season as the video coordinator at Colorado, before advancing to a full-time assistant role&nbsp;for the Buffaloes in 2015-16. He returned to the state of Colorado after a pair of previous stops at Western Colorado (2010-11) and two years at Metro State Denver (2007-09). Following his season at Western Colorado,&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;traveled to Andover, Mass., where he spent three seasons as an assistant at Merrimack College. The Warriors posted a 12-game improvement in the win column from his first season (5-21) in 2011-12 to his second season (17-12) in 2012-13.&nbsp; Born and raised in Ghana, West Africa,&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;grew up in Downey, Calif., before earning four letters in men's basketball while also competing in track and field (long jump, triple jump, 4x100-meter relay) at William Penn in&nbsp;Oskaloosa, Iowa. He earned his bachelor's degree in sports administration and strength and conditioning in 2005. Following his two seasons as an assistant coach at Metro State Denver (2007-09), he spent one season on staff as an assistant coach at William Penn (2009-10). While coaching at Merrimack in Massachusetts,&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;completed his master's degree in coaching and athletic administration from Concordia University in 2013. Julian and his wife,&nbsp;Kaylee, have two sons, Malachi and Elijah.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Story NU Athletic CommunicationsA long-time NCAA Division I assistant with a track record of success around the country, Julian&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;will join&nbsp;the Nebraska women's basketball staff for the 2023-24 season, Head Coach Amy Williams announced on Monday, April 17. Assibey&nbsp;(pronounced ah-SEE-bay) comes to Lincoln after spending the past three years as an assistant coach at Florida, where he helped the Gators to three consecutive postseason berths.&nbsp;In his first season (2020-21) in Gainesville,&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;helped the Gators to their first&nbsp;postseason berth since a 2016 NCAA Tournament bid, and their first postseason victory since 2014. In 2021-22,&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;helped guide the Gators to a 21-11 record and a trip to the first round of the NCAA Tournament. In 2022-23, Florida finished with a 19-15 overall record that included three wins to advance to the Postseason&nbsp;WNIT&nbsp;Great Eight. "We are very excited to add Julian, his wife&nbsp;Kaylee, and son's Malachi and Elijah to our Husker women's basketball family," Williams said. "Julian is a high-energy, passionate coach and a dynamic recruiter. His 16 years of collegiate coaching experience coupled with his values and integrity make him the perfect person to positively impact our student-athletes through the game of basketball." Assibey&nbsp;went to Florida after spending four successful seasons (2016-2020) at Montana State, where he helped the Bobcats to a pair of Big Sky regular-season titles and one conference tournament crown. In addition to his assistant coaching duties,&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;served as the recruiting coordinator for the Bobcats, who produced nine all-conference honorees including a pair of Big Sky players of the year in his four seasons. In 2019-20, Montana State produced one of the best seasons in school history, finishing with a 25-6 record that including a Big Sky regular-season title with a 19-1 mark. The Bobcats advanced to the Big Sky Tournament title game against Idaho, but the game was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;Fallyn&nbsp;Freije&nbsp;was named the 2020 Big Sky Player of the Year. In&nbsp;Assibey's&nbsp;first year at Montana State (2016-17), the Bobcats rolled to Big Sky regular-season and tournament titles, led by league player of the year Peyton Ferris. The Bobcats earned an automatic bid to the 2017 NCAA Tournament and finished the season with a 25-7 record that included a 15-3 Big Sky mark. Assibey&nbsp;previously served the 2014-15 season as the video coordinator at Colorado, before advancing to a full-time assistant role&nbsp;for the Buffaloes in 2015-16. He returned to the state of Colorado after a pair of previous stops at Western Colorado (2010-11) and two years at Metro State Denver (2007-09). Following his season at Western Colorado,&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;traveled to Andover, Mass., where he spent three seasons as an assistant at Merrimack College. The Warriors posted a 12-game improvement in the win column from his first season (5-21) in 2011-12 to his second season (17-12) in 2012-13.&nbsp; Born and raised in Ghana, West Africa,&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;grew up in Downey, Calif., before earning four letters in men's basketball while also competing in track and field (long jump, triple jump, 4x100-meter relay) at William Penn in&nbsp;Oskaloosa, Iowa. He earned his bachelor's degree in sports administration and strength and conditioning in 2005. Following his two seasons as an assistant coach at Metro State Denver (2007-09), he spent one season on staff as an assistant coach at William Penn (2009-10). While coaching at Merrimack in Massachusetts,&nbsp;Assibey&nbsp;completed his master's degree in coaching and athletic administration from Concordia University in 2013. Julian and his wife,&nbsp;Kaylee, have two sons, Malachi and Elijah.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Huskers add Assibey as Assistant Coach

The Nebraska Baseball Academy will have an all-skills camp in North Platte on June 15 at Bill Wood Field, 18th and Sycamore.

The camp is for players second grade through high school seniors. Registration in $90.

For more information, click <a href="https://www.bigredacademy.com/content/youth-camps/6/15-north-platte-camp-2330">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681747280683.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte PostThe Nebraska Baseball Academy will have an all-skills camp in North Platte on June 15 at Bill Wood Field, 18th and Sycamore.The camp is for players second grade through high school seniors. Registration in $90.For more information, click <a href="https://www.bigredacademy.com/content/youth-camps/6/15-north-platte-camp-2330">HERE</a>.

Nebraska Baseball Academy camp scheduled in North Platte

LINCOLN - Nebraska Athletics is proud to officially unveil a modernized version of Herbie Husker, one of the most iconic logos and mascots in college athletics. Nebraska Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Trev Alberts and University leaders led the initiative to develop an updated and modernized version of the Herbie Husker logo and costume.&nbsp; The new logo is being unveiled today and the updated Herbie Husker mascot will make his first public appearance at Saturday's Red-White Spring Game presented by FNBO.

The return to a Herbie Husker costume and logo that closely resembles the original version comes as Nebraska celebrates the 50th&nbsp;year of Herbie Husker. Alberts and University leadership have also placed a priority on embracing the Cornhusker tradition and the agricultural background of the state of Nebraska. "Herbie Husker has been one of the iconic symbols of Nebraska Athletics for nearly 50 years," Alberts said.&nbsp; "Our fans are passionate about all things related to the Huskers, and they have a particular fondness for Herbie.&nbsp; We are excited to present modernized Herbie Husker marks and logos and thrilled to unveil our new Herbie mascot at Saturday's spring game." Led by Director of Licensing Lonna Henrichs and Spirit Squad Head Coach Erynn Butzke, Nebraska Athletics began working with Torch Creative in January of 2022 to develop the new logos.&nbsp; Throughout the process, the focus remained on digitally updating the beloved Herbie mark that features blonde hair, overalls, and an ear of corn in his pocket. "Partnering with Trev, Lonna, and the University of Nebraska on modernizing Herbie has been a dream come true for Torch Creative," the company said. "We have the ultimate respect for their passion for Cornhusker Athletics and worked to match this enthusiasm in creating a more contemporary look for Herbie yet harkens back to the original 1974 version.&nbsp; Much like that iteration, we hope the modern Herbie continues to represent the heritage of the university and its passionate fanbase." In addition to the primary Herbie Husker logo, sport specific logos were created for 10 of Nebraska's varsity programs. &nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Athletics has also updated its marks for Lil' Red and the Blackshirts. New merchandise is now available online at shop.huskers.com and fans can purchase new Herbie gear at Saturday's spring game. The Herbie Husker character evolved out of Nebraska's trip to the Cotton Bowl following the 1973 season. Artist Dirk West designed a Cornhusker cartoon for the Cotton Bowl press headquarters, and Nebraska Sports Information Director Don Bryant later contacted West for permission to use the cartoon. West refined his original cartoon and improved some of the character's features. The new Herbie Husker character first appeared on the cover of the 1974 Nebraska Football media guide and has been a favorite of Nebraska fans over the past five decades.&nbsp; The previous updated iteration of the Herbie Husker character occurred in 2003. That version of Herbie Husker had represented the Cornhuskers at athletic competitions over the past two decades.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681749946886.jpeg" alt="updated Herbie Husker for volleyball team, courtesty UNL" />
 <figcaption>updated Herbie Husker for volleyball team, courtesty UNL</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN - Nebraska Athletics is proud to officially unveil a modernized version of Herbie Husker, one of the most iconic logos and mascots in college athletics. Nebraska Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Trev Alberts and University leaders led the initiative to develop an updated and modernized version of the Herbie Husker logo and costume.&nbsp; The new logo is being unveiled today and the updated Herbie Husker mascot will make his first public appearance at Saturday's Red-White Spring Game presented by FNBO.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sometimes to move forward, you gotta look back. <a href="https://t.co/tqjPX5UdZl">pic.twitter.com/tqjPX5UdZl</a>&mdash; Nebraska Huskers (@Huskers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Huskers/status/1647978248226365445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> The return to a Herbie Husker costume and logo that closely resembles the original version comes as Nebraska celebrates the 50th&nbsp;year of Herbie Husker. Alberts and University leadership have also placed a priority on embracing the Cornhusker tradition and the agricultural background of the state of Nebraska. "Herbie Husker has been one of the iconic symbols of Nebraska Athletics for nearly 50 years," Alberts said.&nbsp; "Our fans are passionate about all things related to the Huskers, and they have a particular fondness for Herbie.&nbsp; We are excited to present modernized Herbie Husker marks and logos and thrilled to unveil our new Herbie mascot at Saturday's spring game." Led by Director of Licensing Lonna Henrichs and Spirit Squad Head Coach Erynn Butzke, Nebraska Athletics began working with Torch Creative in January of 2022 to develop the new logos.&nbsp; Throughout the process, the focus remained on digitally updating the beloved Herbie mark that features blonde hair, overalls, and an ear of corn in his pocket. "Partnering with Trev, Lonna, and the University of Nebraska on modernizing Herbie has been a dream come true for Torch Creative," the company said. "We have the ultimate respect for their passion for Cornhusker Athletics and worked to match this enthusiasm in creating a more contemporary look for Herbie yet harkens back to the original 1974 version.&nbsp; Much like that iteration, we hope the modern Herbie continues to represent the heritage of the university and its passionate fanbase." In addition to the primary Herbie Husker logo, sport specific logos were created for 10 of Nebraska's varsity programs. &nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Athletics has also updated its marks for Lil' Red and the Blackshirts. New merchandise is now available online at shop.huskers.com and fans can purchase new Herbie gear at Saturday's spring game. The Herbie Husker character evolved out of Nebraska's trip to the Cotton Bowl following the 1973 season. Artist Dirk West designed a Cornhusker cartoon for the Cotton Bowl press headquarters, and Nebraska Sports Information Director Don Bryant later contacted West for permission to use the cartoon. West refined his original cartoon and improved some of the character's features. The new Herbie Husker character first appeared on the cover of the 1974 Nebraska Football media guide and has been a favorite of Nebraska fans over the past five decades.&nbsp; The previous updated iteration of the Herbie Husker character occurred in 2003. That version of Herbie Husker had represented the Cornhuskers at athletic competitions over the past two decades.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska Athletics unveils updated Herbie Husker

LINCOLN — Registration is open for most sports in the 39th annual Cornhusker State Games, which take place July 14 to 30 in Lincoln, Omaha and several other Nebraska communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nebraska Sports Council officials announced 
this week that participants registered by June 21 will receive “Summer Fun
 Freebies” including a CSG shirt, Arby’s Roast Beef sandwich and 
vouchers for free admission to several attractions, including a Saltdogs
 baseball game, a Storm Chasers baseball game, the Nebraska State Fair, 
the Lancaster Super Fair and the NEBRASKAland Days Rodeo.

More than 1,500 Nebraskans are already registered 
for the mid-summer sports festival, which offers competition in more 
than 70 sports for athletes of all ages and abilities.&nbsp;More than 10,000 
total participants are expected again this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Officials also announced that entry fees for most 
sports will increase after April 21.&nbsp;Those interested can find 
information and register at <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001I7yJjpmALdC1WK2SkPYcDZP8Dy38UROuRs-ZhVAR1IMyh3Mf_9cF-wK8DQAUzTazArtEtu8PuZ-cIeTe1HIM8ehVow0MiuImKvo5PYHO9-B42UpLWFCN1VmhIgrpdAnPPyXoedQ3a6MPELk2zP876NVgNelMc4P3&amp;c=UWiJ5u2ccpQ9NkKRYkbWtcX2kTIwClzxR6Cim9G_TuNt13FAEf5qHA==&amp;ch=iEHUtqWKY2fdtcimdVmG0GyJf2WIkNY15MkzJQgm5o73yYEtpXGFZA==" target="_blank">CornhuskerStateGames.com</a>.

The Cornhusker State Games is conducted by the 
Nebraska Sports Council, a 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization with a 
mission of providing sporting events and programs that educate and 
motivate Nebraskans to live healthy, active lives.&nbsp;The Games are funded 
primarily through sponsorships from more than 100 Nebraska business.

Learn more at <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001I7yJjpmALdC1WK2SkPYcDZP8Dy38UROuRs-ZhVAR1IMyh3Mf_9cF-9AtTVwYOniEWDy9SyQpUAUcVxV-fU948FkPF-as_nxEKVNdZ2WdX0lyoHGvAIqtVSSl-Jk3WdbV0s6x_gZU5CTZGFqLbMtqXY5NA_1LLbiK&amp;c=UWiJ5u2ccpQ9NkKRYkbWtcX2kTIwClzxR6Cim9G_TuNt13FAEf5qHA==&amp;ch=iEHUtqWKY2fdtcimdVmG0GyJf2WIkNY15MkzJQgm5o73yYEtpXGFZA==" target="_blank">NebraskaSportsCouncil.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681163546250.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseLINCOLN — Registration is open for most sports in the 39th annual Cornhusker State Games, which take place July 14 to 30 in Lincoln, Omaha and several other Nebraska communities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nebraska Sports Council officials announced 
this week that participants registered by June 21 will receive “Summer Fun
 Freebies” including a CSG shirt, Arby’s Roast Beef sandwich and 
vouchers for free admission to several attractions, including a Saltdogs
 baseball game, a Storm Chasers baseball game, the Nebraska State Fair, 
the Lancaster Super Fair and the NEBRASKAland Days Rodeo.More than 1,500 Nebraskans are already registered 
for the mid-summer sports festival, which offers competition in more 
than 70 sports for athletes of all ages and abilities.&nbsp;More than 10,000 
total participants are expected again this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Officials also announced that entry fees for most 
sports will increase after April 21.&nbsp;Those interested can find 
information and register at <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001I7yJjpmALdC1WK2SkPYcDZP8Dy38UROuRs-ZhVAR1IMyh3Mf_9cF-wK8DQAUzTazArtEtu8PuZ-cIeTe1HIM8ehVow0MiuImKvo5PYHO9-B42UpLWFCN1VmhIgrpdAnPPyXoedQ3a6MPELk2zP876NVgNelMc4P3&amp;c=UWiJ5u2ccpQ9NkKRYkbWtcX2kTIwClzxR6Cim9G_TuNt13FAEf5qHA==&amp;ch=iEHUtqWKY2fdtcimdVmG0GyJf2WIkNY15MkzJQgm5o73yYEtpXGFZA==" target="_blank">CornhuskerStateGames.com</a>.The Cornhusker State Games is conducted by the 
Nebraska Sports Council, a 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization with a 
mission of providing sporting events and programs that educate and 
motivate Nebraskans to live healthy, active lives.&nbsp;The Games are funded 
primarily through sponsorships from more than 100 Nebraska business.Learn more at <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001I7yJjpmALdC1WK2SkPYcDZP8Dy38UROuRs-ZhVAR1IMyh3Mf_9cF-9AtTVwYOniEWDy9SyQpUAUcVxV-fU948FkPF-as_nxEKVNdZ2WdX0lyoHGvAIqtVSSl-Jk3WdbV0s6x_gZU5CTZGFqLbMtqXY5NA_1LLbiK&amp;c=UWiJ5u2ccpQ9NkKRYkbWtcX2kTIwClzxR6Cim9G_TuNt13FAEf5qHA==&amp;ch=iEHUtqWKY2fdtcimdVmG0GyJf2WIkNY15MkzJQgm5o73yYEtpXGFZA==" target="_blank">NebraskaSportsCouncil.com</a>.

Registration open for Cornhusker State Games

The NSAA voted on Wednesday morning 7-1 in favor of adding a shot clock for Class B Boys and Girls basketball starting in the 2023-24 season. Class A was the only class that had a shot clock in the 2022-23 season while every other class didn't run a shot clock. 

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NSAA Board votes 7-1 to approve a shot clock for Class B boys beginning in 2023-24. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/nebpreps?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#nebpreps</a>&mdash; Mike Sautter (@MikeSautter_) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeSautter_/status/1646509032855969796?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The NSAA voted on Wednesday morning 7-1 in favor of adding a shot clock for Class B Boys and Girls basketball starting in the 2023-24 season. Class A was the only class that had a shot clock in the 2022-23 season while every other class didn't run a shot clock.

NSAA approves of shot clock changes for 2023-24 season

Story by NPCC Athletic Communications

Jayden Jones of North Platte will join the Knights for their inaugural season on the course in the fall of 2023.

The 2020 graduate of North Platte High School closed out his high school career as a three-time state qualifier. In his junior season, Jones led the Bulldogs to the 2019 Class B Boys Golf Championship with a round of 78. Individually, his score placed him fifth in the field just seven strokes back of the leader.

During his senior season Jones was poised to return to the Nebraska State Boys Golf Championship, but the season was cut short due to COVID-19 pandemic.

"I am excited to continue to play golf at the next level," said Jones. "Being close to home and knowing the coach made my decision much easier."

Jayden is the son of Jay and Heidi Jones.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsJayden Jones of North Platte will join the Knights for their inaugural season on the course in the fall of 2023.The 2020 graduate of North Platte High School closed out his high school career as a three-time state qualifier. In his junior season, Jones led the Bulldogs to the 2019 Class B Boys Golf Championship with a round of 78. Individually, his score placed him fifth in the field just seven strokes back of the leader.During his senior season Jones was poised to return to the Nebraska State Boys Golf Championship, but the season was cut short due to COVID-19 pandemic."I am excited to continue to play golf at the next level," said Jones. "Being close to home and knowing the coach made my decision much easier."Jayden is the son of Jay and Heidi Jones.

Jones joins Knights for their inaugural season

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">North Platte High School is excited to announce North Platte&#39;s own Jimmie Pack as the New High School Head Basketball coach. Go Bulldogs!&mdash; nphs_bulldogs (@nphs_bulldogs) <a href="https://twitter.com/nphs_bulldogs/status/1645534698678960128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

North Platte High School announces new basketball head coach

North Platte Post Sports Network: Head Coach Janelle Higgins 4-7-2023

North Platte High School finished runner-up at the Kearney Golf Invite with a season-low 324. Rylan Perry shot a new personal record 77 to finish 5th, and Jesse Mauch shot a new personal record 78 finishing right behind Perry in 6th. Luke Borges shot an 83 finishing 14th, River Johnston shot an 86, and Elliot Longmore shot an 89.

North Platte High School finished runner-up at the Kearney Golf Invite with a season-low 324. Rylan Perry shot a new personal record 77 to finish 5th, and Jesse Mauch shot a new personal record 78 finishing right behind Perry in 6th. Luke Borges shot an 83 finishing 14th, River Johnston shot an 86, and Elliot Longmore shot an 89.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Kearney Invite Results: NP finishes Runner Up! 🥈 Team fires a season low 324 🔥 ..but falls just short in a team playoff w/ Kearney. Perry - 5th 🏅 77 *PR Mauch- 6th 🏅 78 *PR Borges - 14th 🏅 83 Great day to be a Dawg! Big step in the right direction for our squad. <a href="https://t.co/a4t5UVKy46">pic.twitter.com/a4t5UVKy46</a>&mdash; North Platte Bulldog Golf Teams (@NP__Golf) <a href="https://twitter.com/NP__Golf/status/1644110088448122882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

North Platte finishes runner up at Kearney Golf Invite

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NCA announces All Stars Teams

Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame

Andy&nbsp;Birkel, Lincoln Southeast (2004):&nbsp;Birkel&nbsp;was undefeated in the 100, 200 and 400 meters as a senior, winning the all-class gold medal in each. He also was a standout on Southeast’s state championship football team. He started his prep career at Lincoln East, where he set a school record with a 90-yard interception return. In college, he earned all-conference honors in football playing at Northern Colorado.

Nicole&nbsp;Brungardt, Norfolk Catholic (2008):&nbsp;She set Norfolk Catholic records in volleyball (kills) and basketball (points scored), and&nbsp;won seven Class B gold medals at the state track meet. In college, she started four years for the Wayne State volleyball team and was a two-time track All-American.

Ted Butler, Lincoln Southeast (1994):&nbsp;He won back-to-back state heavyweight wrestling championships as a junior and&nbsp;senior, andwas a standout center and defensive lineman in football. On the baseball diamond, he led the Knights in home runs and doubles. In college, he was a two-year starter at center for Boise State.

Matt&nbsp;Herian, Pierce (2002):&nbsp;A three-year all-state selection as a tight end,&nbsp;Herian&nbsp;also earned all-state honors in basketball, scoring more than 1,000 points, and was a state qualifier in track. At Nebraska,&nbsp;Herian&nbsp;became the Huskers’ all-time leader in receptions and receiving yards for a tight end.

Lukas&nbsp;Hulett, Bellevue East (2006):&nbsp;A track specialist,&nbsp;Hulett&nbsp;ran the fastest 400 in Nebraska high school history while winning the 200 and 400 at the state track meet.&nbsp;At&nbsp;Nebraska, he was a four-time All-American and earned 18 Big 12 meet medals.

Chris&nbsp;Kelsay, Auburn (1998):&nbsp;He earned all-state honors in football and&nbsp;basketball, and&nbsp;won state meet medals in the shot put for Auburn. He went on to earn All-American honors playing defensive end at&nbsp;Nebraska, and&nbsp;followed that with a 10-year NFL career after being drafted in the second round by the Buffalo Bills.

Sam Koch, Seward (2001):&nbsp;While he played multiple positions on Seward’s football team, it was his skills as a punter that made Koch stand out and carried him into his future. He was a two-year starter at Nebraska, setting a school record for average yards per punt. The first Husker punter drafted by the&nbsp;NFL,&nbsp;he spent 16 years with the Baltimore Ravens.

Dennis Korinek, Ulysses (1951):&nbsp;A six-man football phenom, Korinek still holds the state’s six-man career scoring record with 821 points, an effort that includes 118 rushing touchdowns. He led Ulysses to the six-man state championship with a win in the 1949 Apple Bowl. He won two events at the state track meet and tied the state record in the shot put before going on to the University of Nebraska, where he lettered three times in football and once in baseball.

Preston Love Jr., Omaha Tech (1960):&nbsp;All-state in football and basketball and a state champion in the high hurdles, Love was considered the best football player in the state his senior year. He attended Northwestern on a football and track scholarship, placing third in the Big 10 indoor hurdles, before transferring to Nebraska, where he lettered in football and track.

Luke Pinkelman, Cozad (2007):&nbsp;He set a state meet record in the shot put and won the all-class gold medal in the discus his senior year, capping a career in which he won three Class B shot put gold medals and two all-class discus golds. After a year at Iowa State, he returned&nbsp;to Nebraska, where he earned All-American honors in the shot put and discus.&nbsp;Also&nbsp;a football standout, he was a two-time all-state pick for the Haymakers.

Cami (Hubbs) Pruett, Omaha Westside (2007):&nbsp;Nebraska’s only undefeated four-time state tennis champion, she led Westside to three state titles while amassing a 117-0 singles record and a 22-0 doubles record. At Ohio State, she set freshman records for most wins in singles and&nbsp;doubles, and&nbsp;was twice voted the team’s most valuable player.

Stephanie (Streeks)&nbsp;Ruffridge, Gering (1993):&nbsp;Class A’s record-holder for blocks in a single volleyball match and blocks in a season,&nbsp;Streeks&nbsp;emerged as Gering’s premier three-sport star, earning all-state honors in basketball and winning the all-class gold medal in the high jump.&nbsp;Streeks&nbsp;played at Long Beach State, which won the NCAA volleyball title her redshirt season.

Tim Cannon, Omaha Bryan/Millard North:&nbsp;Back-to-back state titles at Millard North capped his 43-year career in&nbsp;boys&nbsp;basketball. His career record was 539-375, including 401-288 in 34 seasons at Bryan and 138-87 at Millard North.

Jerry Cover, Norfolk:&nbsp;In his 42 years as a golf coach, the last 37 at Norfolk, his teams were girls state champions three times, and he retired after his 2019 boys state championship team. The Panthers were state runners-up 11 times.

Dave&nbsp;Eppert, Lincoln East:&nbsp;A two-time national coach of the year in gymnastics, his Spartans were state champions five times in girls and four times in boys, with seven runner-up teams. East was ranked No. 1 nationally in&nbsp;boys&nbsp;gymnastics in 1988 and 1989.

Jean Janssen&nbsp;Groth, Wisner-Pilger (deceased):&nbsp;In only two of her 41 seasons did the Gators finish below .500 in volleyball. Her career record of 828-252 included 14 state tournament appearances, five trips to the state finals and the 1994 Class C-2 state championship.

Ron&nbsp;Mimick, Aquinas:&nbsp;The ninth coach to reach the 300-win milestone in football, he’s been at Aquinas since 1991. His football teams have won seven state titles and been in two other finals, and his boys track teams have won two titles and been runners-up twice.

John&nbsp;Farrand, Lincoln:&nbsp;Beyond his 41 years in coaching cross country, track and football in Classes A and B, the past president of the Nebraska Coaches Association has been a starter for cross country and track meets, a floor manager for state tournaments and has sat on the board of appeals for the state track meet.

James Ayres, Ogallala: He was involved in wrestling officiating for 49 years, starting with junior varsity matches and working state and district meets from 1976 to 2007, he continued as head supervisor and assistant supervisor of officials at the state tournament until 2019.

–Lincoln East’s undefeated 2022&nbsp;boys&nbsp;tennis team: The Spartans, with three freshmen, two sophomores and a senior, didn’t lose a match all season in any of the four divisions while winning the program’s 11thstate title. Hunter Nelson and Samarth&nbsp;Sajeesh&nbsp;played singles. Kirby Le and Caden&nbsp;Haar, and Joseph Bicknell and Kayden Le, were the doubles teams.

–South Sioux City&nbsp;girls&nbsp;basketball, 1995-2005: The Cardinals, coached by Kelly Flynn, were Class B state champions 10 of the 11 seasons and runner-up the other year.

–Rachel&nbsp;Balkovec, Omaha: The first woman to be a full-time manager of a minor-league baseball team has returned for her second season with the Class A Tampa Tarpons in the New York Yankees organization. The Omaha&nbsp;Skutt&nbsp;and New Mexico graduate has been in pro baseball for 12 seasons.

–John and Delores&nbsp;Bellar&nbsp;family,&nbsp;Walthill: The&nbsp;Bellars’ three sons were teachers and coaches – John has retired from BRLD, Jay is retiring as NSAA executive director and Jeff is football coach at Norfolk Catholic —&nbsp;and many of their grandchildren have been&nbsp;high school athletes.

–Ansley volleyball, 1973: Under first-year coach Pat&nbsp;Hoblyn, the Warriors completed a 19-0 season by winning the Class C state championship.

–Blair&nbsp;boys&nbsp;soccer, 1998: Coached by Todd Wick, the Bears, who won their first state title, were the first undefeated boys team in the first 11 years of NSAA-sanctioned soccer and were ranked nationally.

Ogallala&nbsp;girls&nbsp;basketball, 1998: In an epic rematch of the previous year’s Class B final, the Indians beat four-time returning champion South Sioux City 69-58 for their first state title and a No. 23 national ranking by USA Today.

<figure>
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 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska High School Sports Hall of FameAndy&nbsp;Birkel, Lincoln Southeast (2004):&nbsp;Birkel&nbsp;was undefeated in the 100, 200 and 400 meters as a senior, winning the all-class gold medal in each. He also was a standout on Southeast’s state championship football team. He started his prep career at Lincoln East, where he set a school record with a 90-yard interception return. In college, he earned all-conference honors in football playing at Northern Colorado.Nicole&nbsp;Brungardt, Norfolk Catholic (2008):&nbsp;She set Norfolk Catholic records in volleyball (kills) and basketball (points scored), and&nbsp;won seven Class B gold medals at the state track meet. In college, she started four years for the Wayne State volleyball team and was a two-time track All-American.Ted Butler, Lincoln Southeast (1994):&nbsp;He won back-to-back state heavyweight wrestling championships as a junior and&nbsp;senior, andwas a standout center and defensive lineman in football. On the baseball diamond, he led the Knights in home runs and doubles. In college, he was a two-year starter at center for Boise State.Matt&nbsp;Herian, Pierce (2002):&nbsp;A three-year all-state selection as a tight end,&nbsp;Herian&nbsp;also earned all-state honors in basketball, scoring more than 1,000 points, and was a state qualifier in track. At Nebraska,&nbsp;Herian&nbsp;became the Huskers’ all-time leader in receptions and receiving yards for a tight end.Lukas&nbsp;Hulett, Bellevue East (2006):&nbsp;A track specialist,&nbsp;Hulett&nbsp;ran the fastest 400 in Nebraska high school history while winning the 200 and 400 at the state track meet.&nbsp;At&nbsp;Nebraska, he was a four-time All-American and earned 18 Big 12 meet medals.Chris&nbsp;Kelsay, Auburn (1998):&nbsp;He earned all-state honors in football and&nbsp;basketball, and&nbsp;won state meet medals in the shot put for Auburn. He went on to earn All-American honors playing defensive end at&nbsp;Nebraska, and&nbsp;followed that with a 10-year NFL career after being drafted in the second round by the Buffalo Bills.Sam Koch, Seward (2001):&nbsp;While he played multiple positions on Seward’s football team, it was his skills as a punter that made Koch stand out and carried him into his future. He was a two-year starter at Nebraska, setting a school record for average yards per punt. The first Husker punter drafted by the&nbsp;NFL,&nbsp;he spent 16 years with the Baltimore Ravens.Dennis Korinek, Ulysses (1951):&nbsp;A six-man football phenom, Korinek still holds the state’s six-man career scoring record with 821 points, an effort that includes 118 rushing touchdowns. He led Ulysses to the six-man state championship with a win in the 1949 Apple Bowl. He won two events at the state track meet and tied the state record in the shot put before going on to the University of Nebraska, where he lettered three times in football and once in baseball.Preston Love Jr., Omaha Tech (1960):&nbsp;All-state in football and basketball and a state champion in the high hurdles, Love was considered the best football player in the state his senior year. He attended Northwestern on a football and track scholarship, placing third in the Big 10 indoor hurdles, before transferring to Nebraska, where he lettered in football and track.Luke Pinkelman, Cozad (2007):&nbsp;He set a state meet record in the shot put and won the all-class gold medal in the discus his senior year, capping a career in which he won three Class B shot put gold medals and two all-class discus golds. After a year at Iowa State, he returned&nbsp;to Nebraska, where he earned All-American honors in the shot put and discus.&nbsp;Also&nbsp;a football standout, he was a two-time all-state pick for the Haymakers.Cami (Hubbs) Pruett, Omaha Westside (2007):&nbsp;Nebraska’s only undefeated four-time state tennis champion, she led Westside to three state titles while amassing a 117-0 singles record and a 22-0 doubles record. At Ohio State, she set freshman records for most wins in singles and&nbsp;doubles, and&nbsp;was twice voted the team’s most valuable player.Stephanie (Streeks)&nbsp;Ruffridge, Gering (1993):&nbsp;Class A’s record-holder for blocks in a single volleyball match and blocks in a season,&nbsp;Streeks&nbsp;emerged as Gering’s premier three-sport star, earning all-state honors in basketball and winning the all-class gold medal in the high jump.&nbsp;Streeks&nbsp;played at Long Beach State, which won the NCAA volleyball title her redshirt season.Tim Cannon, Omaha Bryan/Millard North:&nbsp;Back-to-back state titles at Millard North capped his 43-year career in&nbsp;boys&nbsp;basketball. His career record was 539-375, including 401-288 in 34 seasons at Bryan and 138-87 at Millard North.Jerry Cover, Norfolk:&nbsp;In his 42 years as a golf coach, the last 37 at Norfolk, his teams were girls state champions three times, and he retired after his 2019 boys state championship team. The Panthers were state runners-up 11 times.Dave&nbsp;Eppert, Lincoln East:&nbsp;A two-time national coach of the year in gymnastics, his Spartans were state champions five times in girls and four times in boys, with seven runner-up teams. East was ranked No. 1 nationally in&nbsp;boys&nbsp;gymnastics in 1988 and 1989.Jean Janssen&nbsp;Groth, Wisner-Pilger (deceased):&nbsp;In only two of her 41 seasons did the Gators finish below .500 in volleyball. Her career record of 828-252 included 14 state tournament appearances, five trips to the state finals and the 1994 Class C-2 state championship.Ron&nbsp;Mimick, Aquinas:&nbsp;The ninth coach to reach the 300-win milestone in football, he’s been at Aquinas since 1991. His football teams have won seven state titles and been in two other finals, and his boys track teams have won two titles and been runners-up twice.John&nbsp;Farrand, Lincoln:&nbsp;Beyond his 41 years in coaching cross country, track and football in Classes A and B, the past president of the Nebraska Coaches Association has been a starter for cross country and track meets, a floor manager for state tournaments and has sat on the board of appeals for the state track meet.<h2>Official</h2>James Ayres, Ogallala: He was involved in wrestling officiating for 49 years, starting with junior varsity matches and working state and district meets from 1976 to 2007, he continued as head supervisor and assistant supervisor of officials at the state tournament until 2019.<h2>Great Moment in High School Sports</h2>–Lincoln East’s undefeated 2022&nbsp;boys&nbsp;tennis team: The Spartans, with three freshmen, two sophomores and a senior, didn’t lose a match all season in any of the four divisions while winning the program’s 11thstate title. Hunter Nelson and Samarth&nbsp;Sajeesh&nbsp;played singles. Kirby Le and Caden&nbsp;Haar, and Joseph Bicknell and Kayden Le, were the doubles teams.<h2>Dominant Dynasty</h2>–South Sioux City&nbsp;girls&nbsp;basketball, 1995-2005: The Cardinals, coached by Kelly Flynn, were Class B state champions 10 of the 11 seasons and runner-up the other year.<h2>Ron Gustafson Inspirational Award</h2>–Rachel&nbsp;Balkovec, Omaha: The first woman to be a full-time manager of a minor-league baseball team has returned for her second season with the Class A Tampa Tarpons in the New York Yankees organization. The Omaha&nbsp;Skutt&nbsp;and New Mexico graduate has been in pro baseball for 12 seasons.<h2>Fischer Family Award</h2>–John and Delores&nbsp;Bellar&nbsp;family,&nbsp;Walthill: The&nbsp;Bellars’ three sons were teachers and coaches – John has retired from BRLD, Jay is retiring as NSAA executive director and Jeff is football coach at Norfolk Catholic —&nbsp;and many of their grandchildren have been&nbsp;high school athletes.<h2>Golden Anniversary Team</h2>–Ansley volleyball, 1973: Under first-year coach Pat&nbsp;Hoblyn, the Warriors completed a 19-0 season by winning the Class C state championship.<h2>Silver Anniversary Teams</h2>–Blair&nbsp;boys&nbsp;soccer, 1998: Coached by Todd Wick, the Bears, who won their first state title, were the first undefeated boys team in the first 11 years of NSAA-sanctioned soccer and were ranked nationally.Ogallala&nbsp;girls&nbsp;basketball, 1998: In an epic rematch of the previous year’s Class B final, the Indians beat four-time returning champion South Sioux City 69-58 for their first state title and a No. 23 national ranking by USA Today.

Ogallala grabs two spots in 2023 sports hall of fame class 

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Track and Field: DCS Invite 2023 results

Story by Tri-City Storm Communications

The Tri-City Storm defeated the Omaha Lancers by a final score of 3-1 in Tuesday’s battle at the Viaero Center. Trevor Connelly extended his season-long point streak to eighteen games, and broke the organization’s record for most consecutive games with at least one point. His eighteen-game point streak is the longest by any player in the league this season. Trevor Connelly, Jake Richard, and Sebastian Törnqvist each netted a goal for Tri-City in the victory. Cameron Korpi collected the win in net for the Storm.

Jake Richard netted his team-leading thirty-first goal of the season at 15:39 of Tuesday’s opening period to give Tri-City a 1-0 lead in the matchup. The goal was scored on the powerplay, and was assisted by Sebastian Törnqvist, and Alex Bump. Sebastian Törnqvist scored his eleventh goal of the year with one second remaining in Tuesday’s 1st&nbsp;period to give Tri-City a two-goal lead in the matchup. The goal was assisted by Daimon Gardner and Tanner Adams. The Storm outshot the Lancers 11-7 in the opening period, and the team carried a 2-0 lead into the 2nd&nbsp;period.

Tucker Shedd scored the only goal of Tuesday’s middle period in the opening minute. The goal was netted at 0:56 of the period, and was assisted by Drew Montgomery. The Lancers outshot the Storm by a 9-8 margin during the 2nd&nbsp;period. Tri-City carried a 2-1 advantage into Tuesday’s final period.

The lone goal of the 3rd&nbsp;period was scored by Trevor Connelly at 18:48. Connelly’s goal was scored into an empty net to seal Tri-City’s two-goal win. Graham Gamache notched an assist on the scoring play. Each team recorded 13 shots on goal during the 3rd&nbsp;period, and the Storm outshot the Lancers 32-29 overall during the battle.

Cameron Korpi recorded the win in goal for the Storm after stopping 28 of Omaha’s 29 shots on net. Kevin Pasche dropped the game in goal for the Lancers after making 29 saves on 31 shots.

Tri-City will return to action with back-to-back road games against the Sioux City Musketeers and Sioux Falls Stampede this weekend on Friday, and Saturday. The Storm will return to the Viaero Center for home games against the Des Moines Buccaneers on Friday, April 14th, and Saturday, April 15th. Tickets to each Storm home game are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by contacting the Viaero Center Box Office at 308-338-8144.

Tri-City hits the ice again on Friday, April 7th, in a road game against the Sioux City Musketeers. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:05pm CT. Skate to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>&nbsp;for individual game tickets and more information regarding the Tri-City Storm organization.&nbsp;#StormAhead

Story by Tri-City Storm CommunicationsThe Tri-City Storm defeated the Omaha Lancers by a final score of 3-1 in Tuesday’s battle at the Viaero Center. Trevor Connelly extended his season-long point streak to eighteen games, and broke the organization’s record for most consecutive games with at least one point. His eighteen-game point streak is the longest by any player in the league this season. Trevor Connelly, Jake Richard, and Sebastian Törnqvist each netted a goal for Tri-City in the victory. Cameron Korpi collected the win in net for the Storm.Jake Richard netted his team-leading thirty-first goal of the season at 15:39 of Tuesday’s opening period to give Tri-City a 1-0 lead in the matchup. The goal was scored on the powerplay, and was assisted by Sebastian Törnqvist, and Alex Bump. Sebastian Törnqvist scored his eleventh goal of the year with one second remaining in Tuesday’s 1st&nbsp;period to give Tri-City a two-goal lead in the matchup. The goal was assisted by Daimon Gardner and Tanner Adams. The Storm outshot the Lancers 11-7 in the opening period, and the team carried a 2-0 lead into the 2nd&nbsp;period.Tucker Shedd scored the only goal of Tuesday’s middle period in the opening minute. The goal was netted at 0:56 of the period, and was assisted by Drew Montgomery. The Lancers outshot the Storm by a 9-8 margin during the 2nd&nbsp;period. Tri-City carried a 2-1 advantage into Tuesday’s final period.The lone goal of the 3rd&nbsp;period was scored by Trevor Connelly at 18:48. Connelly’s goal was scored into an empty net to seal Tri-City’s two-goal win. Graham Gamache notched an assist on the scoring play. Each team recorded 13 shots on goal during the 3rd&nbsp;period, and the Storm outshot the Lancers 32-29 overall during the battle.Cameron Korpi recorded the win in goal for the Storm after stopping 28 of Omaha’s 29 shots on net. Kevin Pasche dropped the game in goal for the Lancers after making 29 saves on 31 shots.Tri-City will return to action with back-to-back road games against the Sioux City Musketeers and Sioux Falls Stampede this weekend on Friday, and Saturday. The Storm will return to the Viaero Center for home games against the Des Moines Buccaneers on Friday, April 14th, and Saturday, April 15th. Tickets to each Storm home game are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by contacting the Viaero Center Box Office at 308-338-8144.Tri-City hits the ice again on Friday, April 7th, in a road game against the Sioux City Musketeers. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:05pm CT. Skate to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>&nbsp;for individual game tickets and more information regarding the Tri-City Storm organization.&nbsp;#StormAhead

Connelly sets team record in Storm win

Story by NU Athletic Communications

The Nebraska bullpen combined for seven scoreless innings, as the Huskers posted a 6-1 win at Kansas State on Tuesday night at Tointon Family Stadium.

Nebraska (16-9-1) scored six runs on 12 hits and no errors, while Kansas State (19-12) had one run on seven hits and no errors.

Caleb Clark made the start on the mound for the Huskers, allowing one run on three hits in two innings of work. The freshman struck out a pair of Wildcats and issued two walks in the 12 batters he faced. Corbin Hawkins collected his first collegiate win after pitching 1.2 scoreless innings in relief. Will Walsh and Jake Bunz teamed up to pitch the next 2.1 innings for the Big Red. Shay Schanaman threw three one-hit innings to pick up his fourth save of the season.

Brice Matthews went 2-for-5 with a double and two RBI, while Max Anderson was 2-for-4 with a solo home run. Ben Columbus and Josh Caron pieced together two-hit games, and Gabe Swansen, Garrett Anglim, Cole Evans and Casey Burnham recorded one hit.

With the two hits, Matthews stretched his hit streak to 12 games and his reached base streak to 29 games, while Columbus has now reached base safely in 15 consecutive games.

Nebraska jumped out to a two-run lead with a pair of hit batters and a hit in the top of the second. Swansen and Caron were both plunked and advanced to second and third on a passed ball, while Anglim lifted a sacrifice fly to plate Swansen. Evans followed by lining at 1-2 pitch to left, scoring Caron and doubling the Husker lead to 2-0.

K-State got one of the runs back in the bottom half of the second frame to make it a 2-1 game through two innings. A hit batter and a single through the right side placed runners on first and second, before Cash Rugley’s two-out RBI single to right scored the Wildcats’ first run of the night.

The Wildcat offense threatened in the fourth and nearly tied the game at two. A single and a walk had runners on first and second with two outs. K-State appeared to load the bases in the next at-bat on an infield single, but the baserunner at third tried advancing home on the play and was tagged out by Caron in a play at the plate.

The NU offense tacked on two runs on a pair of hits in the seventh to grow the lead to 4-1. Anglim led off the inning with an infield single to third base, and Evans was plunked on the first pitch to put runners on first and second with no outs. Burnham dropped down a sacrifice bunt, which loaded the bases for the Big Red after Luke Sartori was ruled safe on a play at third after video review.

With the bases loaded, Matthews drilled an 0-2 pitch down the left-field line for a two-RBI double, plating Sartori and Evans.

Schanaman replaced Bunz after a leadoff walk in the seventh and retired the first three Wildcats he faced to maintain the three-run lead after seven.

Nebraska added two more runs in the ninth to stretch the lead to five. Anderson belted a one-out solo homer that cleared the Husker bullpen in right for his team-leading ninth homer of the season. Columbus dropped a two-out double into right-center, before Caron ripped an RBI single to center to score Columbus for NU’s sixth run of the night.

Schanaman toed the rubber in the ninth and worked around a one-out single to clinch the 6-1 win for the Huskers.

Nebraska returns to Big Ten play this weekend, as the Huskers travel to Michigan for a three-game series on Friday-Sunday, April 7-9 in Ann Arbor, Mich.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska bullpen combined for seven scoreless innings, as the Huskers posted a 6-1 win at Kansas State on Tuesday night at Tointon Family Stadium.Nebraska (16-9-1) scored six runs on 12 hits and no errors, while Kansas State (19-12) had one run on seven hits and no errors.Caleb Clark made the start on the mound for the Huskers, allowing one run on three hits in two innings of work. The freshman struck out a pair of Wildcats and issued two walks in the 12 batters he faced. Corbin Hawkins collected his first collegiate win after pitching 1.2 scoreless innings in relief. Will Walsh and Jake Bunz teamed up to pitch the next 2.1 innings for the Big Red. Shay Schanaman threw three one-hit innings to pick up his fourth save of the season.Brice Matthews went 2-for-5 with a double and two RBI, while Max Anderson was 2-for-4 with a solo home run. Ben Columbus and Josh Caron pieced together two-hit games, and Gabe Swansen, Garrett Anglim, Cole Evans and Casey Burnham recorded one hit.With the two hits, Matthews stretched his hit streak to 12 games and his reached base streak to 29 games, while Columbus has now reached base safely in 15 consecutive games.Nebraska jumped out to a two-run lead with a pair of hit batters and a hit in the top of the second. Swansen and Caron were both plunked and advanced to second and third on a passed ball, while Anglim lifted a sacrifice fly to plate Swansen. Evans followed by lining at 1-2 pitch to left, scoring Caron and doubling the Husker lead to 2-0.K-State got one of the runs back in the bottom half of the second frame to make it a 2-1 game through two innings. A hit batter and a single through the right side placed runners on first and second, before Cash Rugley’s two-out RBI single to right scored the Wildcats’ first run of the night.The Wildcat offense threatened in the fourth and nearly tied the game at two. A single and a walk had runners on first and second with two outs. K-State appeared to load the bases in the next at-bat on an infield single, but the baserunner at third tried advancing home on the play and was tagged out by Caron in a play at the plate.The NU offense tacked on two runs on a pair of hits in the seventh to grow the lead to 4-1. Anglim led off the inning with an infield single to third base, and Evans was plunked on the first pitch to put runners on first and second with no outs. Burnham dropped down a sacrifice bunt, which loaded the bases for the Big Red after Luke Sartori was ruled safe on a play at third after video review.With the bases loaded, Matthews drilled an 0-2 pitch down the left-field line for a two-RBI double, plating Sartori and Evans.Schanaman replaced Bunz after a leadoff walk in the seventh and retired the first three Wildcats he faced to maintain the three-run lead after seven.Nebraska added two more runs in the ninth to stretch the lead to five. Anderson belted a one-out solo homer that cleared the Husker bullpen in right for his team-leading ninth homer of the season. Columbus dropped a two-out double into right-center, before Caron ripped an RBI single to center to score Columbus for NU’s sixth run of the night.Schanaman toed the rubber in the ninth and worked around a one-out single to clinch the 6-1 win for the Huskers.Nebraska returns to Big Ten play this weekend, as the Huskers travel to Michigan for a three-game series on Friday-Sunday, April 7-9 in Ann Arbor, Mich.

NU pitching stifles Wildcats 

North Platte guards&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/ijeh_fumnanya_kmhm">Fumnanya Ijeh</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/grigsby_jada_655l">Jada Grigsby</a>&nbsp;were chosen as All-Region IX and Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference selections for their efforts on the court during the 2022-23 season.

Additionally, forward&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/halley_reece_i7j8">Reece Halley</a>&nbsp;joins her teammates as a NCCAC selection by receiving the ninth most votes from coaches within the conference.

Ijeh led the Knights to their third straight Region IX Championship appearance, while averaging 11.2 points per game this past season. Her points per game average ranked her seventh amongst Region IX players. Ijeh finishes off her sophomore season shooting 38.3 percent (100-261) from the floor, including 78.9 percent (90-114) from the free throw line.

Grigsby played multiple roles this season but managed to cap off her freshman campaign as the Knights leading scorer and rebounder. The guard averaged 11.5 points and 6.6 rebounds per game to finish sixth and third amongst Region IX players. Grigsby scored in double-figures in 20-of-28 games this past season.

Halley was the only player to start every game last season for the Knights. During her freshman campaign the Torrington, Wyo. native chipped in 9.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, while being a mainstay in the heart of the Knights interior during the 2022-23 season.

<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/ijeh_fumnanya_kmhm">Fumnanya Ijeh</a>, So., G, North Platte Community College <a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/grigsby_jada_655l">Jada Grigsby</a>, Fr., G, North Platte Community College Kaylee Klover, So., F, Southeast Community College Jordan Koehler, So., F, Southeast Community College Hannah Macke, So., G, Southeast Community College Matalynn Campbell, Fr., G, Southeast Community College Madison Jelinek, So., F, Central Community College Nikie Nelson, Fr., G, Central Community College

Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference Team

<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/ijeh_fumnanya_kmhm">Fumnanya Ijeh</a>, So., G, North Platte Community College <a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/grigsby_jada_655l">Jada Grigsby</a>, Fr., G, North Platte Community College <a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/halley_reece_i7j8">Reece Halley</a>, Fr., F, North Platte Community College Madison Jelinek, So., F, Central Community College Amy Mitchell, So., G, Central Community College Nikie Nelson, Fr., G, Central Community College Vanessa Jurewicz, So., G, McCook Community College Taryn Lindsey, Fr., G, McCook Community College Matalynn Campbell, Fr., G, Southeast Community College Jordan Koehler, So., F, Southeast Community College Kaylee Klover, So., F, Southeast Community College

Gemma Gruettner Bacoul, Fr., G, McCook Community College

Lynn Schlake, Southeast Community College

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsNorth Platte guards&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/ijeh_fumnanya_kmhm">Fumnanya Ijeh</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/grigsby_jada_655l">Jada Grigsby</a>&nbsp;were chosen as All-Region IX and Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference selections for their efforts on the court during the 2022-23 season.Additionally, forward&nbsp;<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/halley_reece_i7j8">Reece Halley</a>&nbsp;joins her teammates as a NCCAC selection by receiving the ninth most votes from coaches within the conference.Ijeh led the Knights to their third straight Region IX Championship appearance, while averaging 11.2 points per game this past season. Her points per game average ranked her seventh amongst Region IX players. Ijeh finishes off her sophomore season shooting 38.3 percent (100-261) from the floor, including 78.9 percent (90-114) from the free throw line.Grigsby played multiple roles this season but managed to cap off her freshman campaign as the Knights leading scorer and rebounder. The guard averaged 11.5 points and 6.6 rebounds per game to finish sixth and third amongst Region IX players. Grigsby scored in double-figures in 20-of-28 games this past season.Halley was the only player to start every game last season for the Knights. During her freshman campaign the Torrington, Wyo. native chipped in 9.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, while being a mainstay in the heart of the Knights interior during the 2022-23 season.All-Region IX Team<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/ijeh_fumnanya_kmhm">Fumnanya Ijeh</a>, So., G, North Platte Community College <a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/grigsby_jada_655l">Jada Grigsby</a>, Fr., G, North Platte Community College Kaylee Klover, So., F, Southeast Community College Jordan Koehler, So., F, Southeast Community College Hannah Macke, So., G, Southeast Community College Matalynn Campbell, Fr., G, Southeast Community College Madison Jelinek, So., F, Central Community College Nikie Nelson, Fr., G, Central Community College Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference Team<a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/ijeh_fumnanya_kmhm">Fumnanya Ijeh</a>, So., G, North Platte Community College <a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/grigsby_jada_655l">Jada Grigsby</a>, Fr., G, North Platte Community College <a href="https://npccknights.com/sports/wbkb/2022-23/bios/halley_reece_i7j8">Reece Halley</a>, Fr., F, North Platte Community College Madison Jelinek, So., F, Central Community College Amy Mitchell, So., G, Central Community College Nikie Nelson, Fr., G, Central Community College Vanessa Jurewicz, So., G, McCook Community College Taryn Lindsey, Fr., G, McCook Community College Matalynn Campbell, Fr., G, Southeast Community College Jordan Koehler, So., F, Southeast Community College Kaylee Klover, So., F, Southeast Community CollegeHonorable MentionGemma Gruettner Bacoul, Fr., G, McCook Community CollegeCoach of the YearLynn Schlake, Southeast Community College

Ijeh and Grigsby headline postseason awards

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The NPCC Knights Softball games originally scheduled for tomorrow against McCook have been rescheduled for 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. April 18 due to weather. <a href="https://t.co/z19ChlCDXg">pic.twitter.com/z19ChlCDXg</a>&mdash; NPCC Athletics (@NPCCKnights) <a href="https://twitter.com/NPCCKnights/status/1642968390590672896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Knights reschedule games against McCook

The Tri-City Storm is set to host the Omaha Lancers in tonight’s midweek game at the Viaero Center. The Storm completed a two-game sweep over the Sioux Falls Stampede in last weekend’s home series. Tonight’s game matchup was originally scheduled as the Storm’s Home Opener for the 2022-2023 season. Tickets purchased for September 30th, 2022, or October 2nd, 2022, will be honored at tonight’s game. Tickets are still available for the contest, and may be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by calling the Viaero Center Box Office at 308-338-8144. Puck drop for tonight’s midweek battle between the Storm and the Lancers is scheduled for 7:05pm CT.

Tri-City (31-18-3-3) will face off against the Omaha Lancers for the final time this season in tonight’s home game at the Viaero Center. The Storm has posted a 7-1-0-1 record in head-to-head matchups against the Lancers this season, after the team finished the 2021-2022 regular season with a 7-3-0-0 record against Omaha. Tri-City is 29-10-3-2 in battles against Omaha over the last five seasons. The Storm can rise within one point of 2nd&nbsp;place in the USHL’s Western Conference standings with a win over the Lancers on home ice tonight. A victory in tonight’s game would also guarantee a 4th&nbsp;place or better finish for Tri-City in the final standings. A Top-4 finish in the Western Conference standings also assures a home series for the Storm in the team’s first playoff series in the upcoming Clark Cup Playoffs. Scoring leaders for Tri-City entering tonight’s home game at the Viaero Center include Jake Richard (30), Trevor Connelly (20), Graham Gamache (19), Evan Werner (17), and Kieran Cebrian (16). Connelly tied the organization’s record for consecutive games with at least one point in Saturday’s 6-4 home win over the Sioux Falls Stampede. His seventeen-game point streak is the longest by any player in the league this season.

Omaha (16-29-5-4) enters tonight’s road game against the Storm as the 8th-place team in the USHL’s Western Conference standings. A victory for the Lancers would bring the team within seven points of the final playoff spot in the conference. Omaha has posted a record of 3-5-0-2 over the past ten games, and is 3-6-1-0 in head-to-head matchups against Tri-City this season. The Lancers hold a record of 9-13-1-0 in games played against the Storm at the Viaero Center over the past five years. Scoring leaders for Omaha entering tonight’s road game against Tri-City include Griffin Jurecki (13), Charlie Lurie (11), Alex Bump (9), Aleksi Kivioja (9), Vincent Salice (8), and Nick Pierre (8). The Lancers will return to action this weekend with a home-and-home series against the Lincoln Stars following tonight’s contest against the Storm. The Lancers hold a road record of 8-15-3-0 this season, and posted a 4-3 shootout victory over the Storm on December 9th, 2022. Three of the four previous games in this year’s series played at the Viaero Center have been decided by two goals or less.

Story by Tri-City Storm CommunicationsThe Tri-City Storm is set to host the Omaha Lancers in tonight’s midweek game at the Viaero Center. The Storm completed a two-game sweep over the Sioux Falls Stampede in last weekend’s home series. Tonight’s game matchup was originally scheduled as the Storm’s Home Opener for the 2022-2023 season. Tickets purchased for September 30th, 2022, or October 2nd, 2022, will be honored at tonight’s game. Tickets are still available for the contest, and may be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stormhockey.com/" target="_blank">www.StormHockey.com</a>, or by calling the Viaero Center Box Office at 308-338-8144. Puck drop for tonight’s midweek battle between the Storm and the Lancers is scheduled for 7:05pm CT.Tri-City (31-18-3-3) will face off against the Omaha Lancers for the final time this season in tonight’s home game at the Viaero Center. The Storm has posted a 7-1-0-1 record in head-to-head matchups against the Lancers this season, after the team finished the 2021-2022 regular season with a 7-3-0-0 record against Omaha. Tri-City is 29-10-3-2 in battles against Omaha over the last five seasons. The Storm can rise within one point of 2nd&nbsp;place in the USHL’s Western Conference standings with a win over the Lancers on home ice tonight. A victory in tonight’s game would also guarantee a 4th&nbsp;place or better finish for Tri-City in the final standings. A Top-4 finish in the Western Conference standings also assures a home series for the Storm in the team’s first playoff series in the upcoming Clark Cup Playoffs. Scoring leaders for Tri-City entering tonight’s home game at the Viaero Center include Jake Richard (30), Trevor Connelly (20), Graham Gamache (19), Evan Werner (17), and Kieran Cebrian (16). Connelly tied the organization’s record for consecutive games with at least one point in Saturday’s 6-4 home win over the Sioux Falls Stampede. His seventeen-game point streak is the longest by any player in the league this season.Omaha (16-29-5-4) enters tonight’s road game against the Storm as the 8th-place team in the USHL’s Western Conference standings. A victory for the Lancers would bring the team within seven points of the final playoff spot in the conference. Omaha has posted a record of 3-5-0-2 over the past ten games, and is 3-6-1-0 in head-to-head matchups against Tri-City this season. The Lancers hold a record of 9-13-1-0 in games played against the Storm at the Viaero Center over the past five years. Scoring leaders for Omaha entering tonight’s road game against Tri-City include Griffin Jurecki (13), Charlie Lurie (11), Alex Bump (9), Aleksi Kivioja (9), Vincent Salice (8), and Nick Pierre (8). The Lancers will return to action this weekend with a home-and-home series against the Lincoln Stars following tonight’s contest against the Storm. The Lancers hold a road record of 8-15-3-0 this season, and posted a 4-3 shootout victory over the Storm on December 9th, 2022. Three of the four previous games in this year’s series played at the Viaero Center have been decided by two goals or less.

Storm set for Tuesday Night Home Game

By EDDIE PELLS AP National Writer

HOUSTON — UConn topped off one of the most impressive March Madness runs in history Monday night, clamping down early and breaking it open late to bring home its fifth national title with a 76-59 victory over San Diego State.

Adama Sanogo had 17 points and 10 rebounds and Tristen Newton also had a double-double with 19 points and 10 boards for the Huskies (31-8), who became the fifth team since the bracket expanded in 1985 to win all six NCAA Tournament games by double-digits on the way to a championship.

They won the six games by an average of an even 20 points, only a fraction less than what North Carolina did in sweeping to the title in 2009.

UConn built a 16-point lead late in the first half, only to see the Aztecs (32-7) trim the lead to five with 5:19 left. But Jordan Hawkins (16 points) answered with a 3 to trigger a 9-0 run and the only drama left was whether UConn would cover the 7 1/2-point spread and go six for six with double-digit wins.

Keshad Johnson had 14 points for San Diego State, which came up one win shy in this, its first trip to the Final Four.

UConn set the stage for this one over an 11:07 stretch in the first half during which the Aztecs didn't make a single basket. Unable to shoot over or go around this tall, long UConn team, they missed 14 straight shots from the floor.

They went from leading by four to trailing by 11, and when they weren't getting shots blocked (Alex Karaban had three and Sanogo had one) or altered on the inside, they were coming up short — a telltale sign of a team that was out of hops after that draining 72-71 buzzer-beater win over Florida Atlantic two nights earlier.

UConn fan Bill Murray was one of the few celebrities on hand to watch the Huskies make it five for five in title games in one of the most unexpected Final Fours in history. This one marked the last that Jim Nantz would call after 37 years behind the mic.

He's had a lot of UConn stories to tell, though this certainly wasn't the most dramatic.

Even with that brief bout of uncertainty midway through the second half, UConn never truly let the Aztecs, who overcame a 14-point deficit in the semifinal, start thinking about any more last-second dramatics.

This was a team built strictly for 2023 — replenished by coach Dan Hurley, who went to the transfer portal to find more outside shooting after back-to-back first-round exits in the tournament.

And yet, there was something decidedly old-school about the way the Huskies took care of business in the early going.

They didn't even think much about 3-point shooting at the start, instead skip passing into Sanogo on the post and wearing down SDSU while building the early lead.

The Aztecs were too good a team to cave and an over-pursuing defense is what triggered the late run to within five. A team built on defense only shot 32% from the floor.

And after its late run, they started getting burned and Hurley and Co. were hugging it out on the bench before the buzzer.

UConn's latest coronation makes Hurley the third coach to bring a trophy home to Storrs, Connecticut. He joins Jim Calhoun (1999, 2004, 2001) and Kevin Ollie (2014).

By EDDIE PELLS AP National WriterHOUSTON — UConn topped off one of the most impressive March Madness runs in history Monday night, clamping down early and breaking it open late to bring home its fifth national title with a 76-59 victory over San Diego State.Adama Sanogo had 17 points and 10 rebounds and Tristen Newton also had a double-double with 19 points and 10 boards for the Huskies (31-8), who became the fifth team since the bracket expanded in 1985 to win all six NCAA Tournament games by double-digits on the way to a championship.They won the six games by an average of an even 20 points, only a fraction less than what North Carolina did in sweeping to the title in 2009.UConn built a 16-point lead late in the first half, only to see the Aztecs (32-7) trim the lead to five with 5:19 left. But Jordan Hawkins (16 points) answered with a 3 to trigger a 9-0 run and the only drama left was whether UConn would cover the 7 1/2-point spread and go six for six with double-digit wins.Keshad Johnson had 14 points for San Diego State, which came up one win shy in this, its first trip to the Final Four.UConn set the stage for this one over an 11:07 stretch in the first half during which the Aztecs didn't make a single basket. Unable to shoot over or go around this tall, long UConn team, they missed 14 straight shots from the floor.They went from leading by four to trailing by 11, and when they weren't getting shots blocked (Alex Karaban had three and Sanogo had one) or altered on the inside, they were coming up short — a telltale sign of a team that was out of hops after that draining 72-71 buzzer-beater win over Florida Atlantic two nights earlier.UConn fan Bill Murray was one of the few celebrities on hand to watch the Huskies make it five for five in title games in one of the most unexpected Final Fours in history. This one marked the last that Jim Nantz would call after 37 years behind the mic.He's had a lot of UConn stories to tell, though this certainly wasn't the most dramatic.Even with that brief bout of uncertainty midway through the second half, UConn never truly let the Aztecs, who overcame a 14-point deficit in the semifinal, start thinking about any more last-second dramatics.This was a team built strictly for 2023 — replenished by coach Dan Hurley, who went to the transfer portal to find more outside shooting after back-to-back first-round exits in the tournament.And yet, there was something decidedly old-school about the way the Huskies took care of business in the early going.They didn't even think much about 3-point shooting at the start, instead skip passing into Sanogo on the post and wearing down SDSU while building the early lead.The Aztecs were too good a team to cave and an over-pursuing defense is what triggered the late run to within five. A team built on defense only shot 32% from the floor.And after its late run, they started getting burned and Hurley and Co. were hugging it out on the bench before the buzzer.UConn's latest coronation makes Hurley the third coach to bring a trophy home to Storrs, Connecticut. He joins Jim Calhoun (1999, 2004, 2001) and Kevin Ollie (2014).

🏀 UConn wins March Madness with smothering of SDSU

The Keith County Chamber will present the 19th annual Drover Golf Tournament June 3 at Crandall Creek Golf Club in Ogallala and June 4 at Bayside Golf Club in Brule.

The event beings at 11 a.m. June 3 at Crandall Creek, and 9 a.m. June 4 at Bayside.

Registration is limited to 60 teams. For more information or to register, email <a href="mailto:info@explorekeithcounty.com">info@explorekeithcounty.com</a> or call (308) 284-4066.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680014922430.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Keith County Chamber will present the 19th annual Drover Golf Tournament June 3 at Crandall Creek Golf Club in Ogallala and June 4 at Bayside Golf Club in Brule.The event beings at 11 a.m. June 3 at Crandall Creek, and 9 a.m. June 4 at Bayside.Registration is limited to 60 teams. For more information or to register, email <a href="mailto:info@explorekeithcounty.com">info@explorekeithcounty.com</a> or call (308) 284-4066.

19th annual Drover golf tourney scheduled for early June

By JAY COHEN AP Baseball Writer

CHICAGO — Marcus Stroman is getting used to Major League Baseball's new pitch clock. And it's no small deal for the Chicago Cubs right-hander.

"It's tough," he said. "It's a big adjustment."

Stroman committed baseball's first regular-season pitch-clock violation Thursday in the third inning of the Cubs' 4-0 victory over Milwaukee on opening day. It was the first of 14 violations in 15 games on a day the average game time shrunk 26 minutes to 2 hours, 45 minutes.

Meanwhile, stolen base attempts per game more than doubled from last opening day, an indication that efforts to spur the running game may be working. Runners were 21 of 23 on steal attempts Thursday, compared to 5 of 9 in seven games on the first day of the 2022 season.

Five pitch timer violations were by batters, eight by pitchers and one by a catcher as all MLB teams opened on the same day for the first time since 1968.

Stroman clocked an unwelcome spot in the record books while facing Christian Yelich. He took a long look at rookie Brice Turang leading off second base with no outs at Wrigley Field, and then just as he turned his attention back to Yelich, plate umpire Ron Kulpa called the violation. Kulpa pointed to his wrist in announcing the call, and the automatic ball made it a 2-2 count against Yelich. Stroman didn't argue.

"You've got to be looking at the clock. You're trying to worry about the pitch. You're trying to worry about the guys on base. You're trying to worry about your grip," Stroman said. "There's so many things going on now.

"So it definitely adds another layer to the game that's tough, to be honest with you. It's definitely not easy to be a pitcher out there and to feel rushed at times."

MLB instituted the pitch clock this season to speed the pace of play. Players have 30 seconds to resume play between batters. Between pitches, pitchers have 15 seconds with nobody on and 20 seconds if there is a baserunner. Batters must be in the box and alert to the pitcher with at least eight seconds on the clock.

When a pitcher fails to throw a pitch in time, the penalty is an automatic ball. When a batter isn't ready in time, it's an automatic strike.

Boston Red Sox star slugger Rafael Devers became the first batter to strike out via violation. Devers was looking down and kicking debris off his cleats in the eighth inning when Lance Barksdale signaled a violation that resulted in strike three.

"There's no excuse," Boston manager Alex Cora said. "They know the rules."

J.D. Davis of the San Francisco Giants became the first hitter called for a pitch-clock violation in any count during the ninth inning of a game at Yankee Stadium.

Meanwhile in Washington, Atlanta Braves reliever Collin McHugh put his arms out wide after being called for a violation by umpire Dan Bellino in the eighth inning against Washington. That put batter Jeimer Candelario ahead 1-0, and McHugh followed with three more balls — a three-pitch walk, essentially.

"I didn't even realize it happened, quite honestly," Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said. "It's going to happen."

The opening day rollout was mostly smooth, but a few issues arose in Miami.

In the fifth inning, New York Mets ace Max Scherzer stared down the Marlins' Bryan De La Cruz until the clock hit zero. De La Cruz began shouting "Ball! Ball! Ball!" — as in, call an automatic ball. But plate umpire Larry Vanover thought the hitter was calling for a timeout. Scherzer escaped without the automatic ball and later induced a popup from De La Cruz.

The next inning, Vanover angered Mets All-Star Jeff McNeil with a violation he did call. McNeil was waiting for baserunner Pete Alonso to retreat to first after a foul ball when Vanover dinged him for an automatic strike. That prompted an argument with McNeil and Mets manager Buck Showalter, who seemed irritated that the pitch clock began before Alonso returned to first.

It worked out anyway for McNeil — he grounded an RBI single a few pitches later.

"I love the pace," Scherzer said. "I don't like the clock. I'll double down on that. I think the umpire should have discretion to turn the clock off."

The Baltimore Orioles stole five bases during a 10-9 win over the Boston Red Sox, leading a league-wide surge in swipes on Day 1. The league-wide success rate of 91.3% dwarfed last year's 75% clip — in fact, there was only one day all of last season when the league had 20-plus steals with a success rate better than 90%, when runners were 22 of 24 on July 26.

Those baserunning exploits come after MLB limited pitchers to two pickoff attempts per batter — a third attempt must result in an out, otherwise pitchers are charged a balk. The bases were also made bigger, shrinking the distance between bags by 4 1/2 inches.

AP Baseball Writer Ronald Blum in New York and AP Sports Writers Howard Fendrich in Washington, Kyle Hightower in Boston, Alanis Thames in Miami, Tim Booth in Seattle and Beth Harris in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

By JAY COHEN AP Baseball WriterCHICAGO — Marcus Stroman is getting used to Major League Baseball's new pitch clock. And it's no small deal for the Chicago Cubs right-hander."It's tough," he said. "It's a big adjustment."Stroman committed baseball's first regular-season pitch-clock violation Thursday in the third inning of the Cubs' 4-0 victory over Milwaukee on opening day. It was the first of 14 violations in 15 games on a day the average game time shrunk 26 minutes to 2 hours, 45 minutes.Meanwhile, stolen base attempts per game more than doubled from last opening day, an indication that efforts to spur the running game may be working. Runners were 21 of 23 on steal attempts Thursday, compared to 5 of 9 in seven games on the first day of the 2022 season.Five pitch timer violations were by batters, eight by pitchers and one by a catcher as all MLB teams opened on the same day for the first time since 1968.Stroman clocked an unwelcome spot in the record books while facing Christian Yelich. He took a long look at rookie Brice Turang leading off second base with no outs at Wrigley Field, and then just as he turned his attention back to Yelich, plate umpire Ron Kulpa called the violation. Kulpa pointed to his wrist in announcing the call, and the automatic ball made it a 2-2 count against Yelich. Stroman didn't argue."You've got to be looking at the clock. You're trying to worry about the pitch. You're trying to worry about the guys on base. You're trying to worry about your grip," Stroman said. "There's so many things going on now."So it definitely adds another layer to the game that's tough, to be honest with you. It's definitely not easy to be a pitcher out there and to feel rushed at times."MLB instituted the pitch clock this season to speed the pace of play. Players have 30 seconds to resume play between batters. Between pitches, pitchers have 15 seconds with nobody on and 20 seconds if there is a baserunner. Batters must be in the box and alert to the pitcher with at least eight seconds on the clock.When a pitcher fails to throw a pitch in time, the penalty is an automatic ball. When a batter isn't ready in time, it's an automatic strike.Boston Red Sox star slugger Rafael Devers became the first batter to strike out via violation. Devers was looking down and kicking debris off his cleats in the eighth inning when Lance Barksdale signaled a violation that resulted in strike three."There's no excuse," Boston manager Alex Cora said. "They know the rules."J.D. Davis of the San Francisco Giants became the first hitter called for a pitch-clock violation in any count during the ninth inning of a game at Yankee Stadium.Meanwhile in Washington, Atlanta Braves reliever Collin McHugh put his arms out wide after being called for a violation by umpire Dan Bellino in the eighth inning against Washington. That put batter Jeimer Candelario ahead 1-0, and McHugh followed with three more balls — a three-pitch walk, essentially."I didn't even realize it happened, quite honestly," Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said. "It's going to happen."The opening day rollout was mostly smooth, but a few issues arose in Miami.In the fifth inning, New York Mets ace Max Scherzer stared down the Marlins' Bryan De La Cruz until the clock hit zero. De La Cruz began shouting "Ball! Ball! Ball!" — as in, call an automatic ball. But plate umpire Larry Vanover thought the hitter was calling for a timeout. Scherzer escaped without the automatic ball and later induced a popup from De La Cruz.The next inning, Vanover angered Mets All-Star Jeff McNeil with a violation he did call. McNeil was waiting for baserunner Pete Alonso to retreat to first after a foul ball when Vanover dinged him for an automatic strike. That prompted an argument with McNeil and Mets manager Buck Showalter, who seemed irritated that the pitch clock began before Alonso returned to first.It worked out anyway for McNeil — he grounded an RBI single a few pitches later."I love the pace," Scherzer said. "I don't like the clock. I'll double down on that. I think the umpire should have discretion to turn the clock off."The Baltimore Orioles stole five bases during a 10-9 win over the Boston Red Sox, leading a league-wide surge in swipes on Day 1. The league-wide success rate of 91.3% dwarfed last year's 75% clip — in fact, there was only one day all of last season when the league had 20-plus steals with a success rate better than 90%, when runners were 22 of 24 on July 26.Those baserunning exploits come after MLB limited pitchers to two pickoff attempts per batter — a third attempt must result in an out, otherwise pitchers are charged a balk. The bases were also made bigger, shrinking the distance between bags by 4 1/2 inches.AP Baseball Writer Ronald Blum in New York and AP Sports Writers Howard Fendrich in Washington, Kyle Hightower in Boston, Alanis Thames in Miami, Tim Booth in Seattle and Beth Harris in Los Angeles contributed to this report.