🔊 Chadron State Sports Journal: The Big Event has gone VIRTUAL!

By: Kaleb Center, CSC Sports Information Director



CHADRON, Neb. -- April 15, 2020 --&nbsp;Chadron State College softball players&nbsp;Angelica Maples&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bailey Marvel&nbsp;were among the players honored Wednesday by the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference for their work in the classroom. The pair were named to the league's academic honor roll in the annual All-Academic release.

Those student-athletes who met the minimum requirements for nomination to the All-Academic First Team, but who were not selected by the league's sports information directors, earn recognition on the honor roll.

Minimum qualifications include a 3.3 cumulative grade point average, at least two full semesters' worth of academic credit at current school, and the student-athlete must use a season of eligibility.

For this season, which ended early due to a virus outbreak, career accomplishments were considered, in addition to season statistics.

Maples, who holds a 3.376 GPA&nbsp; in criminal justice, is a three-year starter, first in the infield then in outfield mostly the past two seasons. The senior from Marysville, Calif., led CSC in home runs as a sophomore, with six, and was leading again this season with four. Maples was tied at ninth in RMAC for home runs when the season ended and was having a career season at the plate batting .288. She ranks seventh all-time at CSC in stolen bases (21).

Marvel, a sophomore from Lakewood, Colo.,&nbsp;batted .396 as a freshman and was at a clip of .351 this season for a career average of .383. She led the team in stolen bases both seasons, with a career 21 steals, and scored the most runs both seasons with 62 combined. Marvel has started all 72 games of her career at shortstop, accruing only eight errors to her name for a stellar .967 career in the field. With a GPA of 3.673, she owns the second-highest career batting average and on-base percentage in CSC history.

The RMAC Academic Player of the Year award went to Hailey Hinson of Colorado Mesa University.



By: Kaleb Center, CSC Sports Information Director

CHADRON, Neb. -- April 15, 2020 --&nbsp;Chadron State College softball players&nbsp;Angelica Maples&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bailey Marvel&nbsp;were among the players honored Wednesday by the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference for their work in the classroom. The pair were named to the league's academic honor roll in the annual All-Academic release.Those student-athletes who met the minimum requirements for nomination to the All-Academic First Team, but who were not selected by the league's sports information directors, earn recognition on the honor roll.Minimum qualifications include a 3.3 cumulative grade point average, at least two full semesters' worth of academic credit at current school, and the student-athlete must use a season of eligibility.For this season, which ended early due to a virus outbreak, career accomplishments were considered, in addition to season statistics.Maples, who holds a 3.376 GPA&nbsp; in criminal justice, is a three-year starter, first in the infield then in outfield mostly the past two seasons. The senior from Marysville, Calif., led CSC in home runs as a sophomore, with six, and was leading again this season with four. Maples was tied at ninth in RMAC for home runs when the season ended and was having a career season at the plate batting .288. She ranks seventh all-time at CSC in stolen bases (21).Marvel, a sophomore from Lakewood, Colo.,&nbsp;batted .396 as a freshman and was at a clip of .351 this season for a career average of .383. She led the team in stolen bases both seasons, with a career 21 steals, and scored the most runs both seasons with 62 combined. Marvel has started all 72 games of her career at shortstop, accruing only eight errors to her name for a stellar .967 career in the field. With a GPA of 3.673, she owns the second-highest career batting average and on-base percentage in CSC history.The RMAC Academic Player of the Year award went to Hailey Hinson of Colorado Mesa University.

🥎 Two Eagles earn RMAC All-Academic honors

Courtesy:&nbsp; Nebraska Athletics

Lincoln - University of Nebraska men's basketball coach Fred Hoiberg unveiled the Huskers spring recruiting class on Wednesday. The five-member class features graduate transfer Kobe Webster, junior college transfers Teddy Allen and Lat Mayen and Division I transfers Kobe King and Trey McGowens.  All five players possess Division I experience and have combined for 2,847 points, 807 rebounds, 536 assists and 242 steals during their collegiate careers.

"We are excited to bring in this five-man class that brings size, length, athleticism, scoring ability and experience," Hoiberg said. "We feel as if we addressed our needs with this group and certainly elevated our program. This is a hard-working group that will bring energy and toughness every time they step out on the floor. When you add this class with the players who have had a year in our system, it will allow us to play a style which we think can be successful in the Big Ten."

Teddy Allen spent the 2019-20 season at Western Nebraska Community College, where he led the nation in scoring. Allen earned first-team all-region accolades, as he averaged 31.4 points, 7.4 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game last season. He led the country in field goals made (286) and ranked in the top 10 nationally in free throws made (third, 229, attempted (third, 260) and free throw percentage (eighth, 88.1). As a freshman in 2017-18, he played at West Virginia University, chipping in 7.0 points and 2.7 rebounds off the bench as the Mountaineers went 26-11 and reached the NCAA Sweet 16.

Kobe King committed to Nebraska in February of 2020 after playing 63 games, including 20 starts, at the University of Wisconsin. King started the first 19 games for the Badgers this past season, averaging 10.0 ppg on 46 percent shooting and ranked second on the team in assists through 19 contests. In Big Ten play, King was the Badgers' leading scorer at 12.6 ppg on 52 percent shooting. He had 11 double-figures performances in 19 games, including a career-high 24 points on 10-of-15 shooting in a win over Indiana.

Lat Mayen played at Chipola (Fla.) College, where he earned first-team all-conference recognition after he averaged 11.8 points per game on 47 percent shooting along with 8.4 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. He shot 38 percent from 3-point range (38-99) and 81.5 percent from the foul line. He was ranked the No. 34 junior player in the nation according to JucoRecruiting. Mayen was considered one of the top Australian recruits coming into college. In his two-year career at TCU, Mayen redshirted his first season and played just 17 games before season-ending knee injury in 2018-19.

Trey McGowens signed with Nebraska after starting the last two seasons at Pittsburgh, where he averaged double figures in both seasons. In 2019-20. he started 32 games, averaging 11.5 points, 3.6 assists, 3.3 rebounds and 1.9 steals per game. He ranked in the top 15 in the ACC in steals (fourth, assists (10th) and assist-to-turnover ratio (15th, 1.26-to-1). A former top-100 recruit, McGowens burst on the scene as a freshman, averaging 11.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.9 steals and 1.7 assists per game. A two-time ACC Freshman of the Week, he finished third in the conference in steals per game and tied or set three single-game Pitt freshman records, including points (33, steals (7) and free throws (18). He reached double figures 17 times, highlighted by a career-high 33-point performance against Louisville.

Kobe Webster comes to Nebraska after starting for three seasons at Western Illinois University. He will have one year of eligibility remaining after graduating in three years. Webster, who has totaled over 1,400 points and nearly 300 assists, while leading WIU in both scoring and assists in each of the past three seasons. A two-time All-Summit League selection, Webster averaged 17.1 points, 3.6 assists and 3.2 rebounds per game in 2019-20, ranking among the Summit League leaders in scoring (sixth, assists (fifth) and assist-to-turnover ratio (fourth, 1.72-to-1). He had 21 double-figure performances, highlighted by a school-record 40-point performance against Omaha.

In addition to these five newcomers, Nebraska also adds a trio of Division I transfers who sat out the 2019-20 season in Dalano Banton, Shamiel Stevenson and Derrick Walker.

Courtesy:&nbsp; Nebraska Athletics Lincoln - University of Nebraska men's basketball coach Fred Hoiberg unveiled the Huskers spring recruiting class on Wednesday. The five-member class features graduate transfer Kobe Webster, junior college transfers Teddy Allen and Lat Mayen and Division I transfers Kobe King and Trey McGowens. All five players possess Division I experience and have combined for 2,847 points, 807 rebounds, 536 assists and 242 steals during their collegiate careers."We are excited to bring in this five-man class that brings size, length, athleticism, scoring ability and experience," Hoiberg said. "We feel as if we addressed our needs with this group and certainly elevated our program. This is a hard-working group that will bring energy and toughness every time they step out on the floor. When you add this class with the players who have had a year in our system, it will allow us to play a style which we think can be successful in the Big Ten."Teddy Allen spent the 2019-20 season at Western Nebraska Community College, where he led the nation in scoring. Allen earned first-team all-region accolades, as he averaged 31.4 points, 7.4 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game last season. He led the country in field goals made (286) and ranked in the top 10 nationally in free throws made (third, 229, attempted (third, 260) and free throw percentage (eighth, 88.1). As a freshman in 2017-18, he played at West Virginia University, chipping in 7.0 points and 2.7 rebounds off the bench as the Mountaineers went 26-11 and reached the NCAA Sweet 16.Kobe King committed to Nebraska in February of 2020 after playing 63 games, including 20 starts, at the University of Wisconsin. King started the first 19 games for the Badgers this past season, averaging 10.0 ppg on 46 percent shooting and ranked second on the team in assists through 19 contests. In Big Ten play, King was the Badgers' leading scorer at 12.6 ppg on 52 percent shooting. He had 11 double-figures performances in 19 games, including a career-high 24 points on 10-of-15 shooting in a win over Indiana.Lat Mayen played at Chipola (Fla.) College, where he earned first-team all-conference recognition after he averaged 11.8 points per game on 47 percent shooting along with 8.4 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. He shot 38 percent from 3-point range (38-99) and 81.5 percent from the foul line. He was ranked the No. 34 junior player in the nation according to JucoRecruiting. Mayen was considered one of the top Australian recruits coming into college. In his two-year career at TCU, Mayen redshirted his first season and played just 17 games before season-ending knee injury in 2018-19.Trey McGowens signed with Nebraska after starting the last two seasons at Pittsburgh, where he averaged double figures in both seasons. In 2019-20. he started 32 games, averaging 11.5 points, 3.6 assists, 3.3 rebounds and 1.9 steals per game. He ranked in the top 15 in the ACC in steals (fourth, assists (10th) and assist-to-turnover ratio (15th, 1.26-to-1). A former top-100 recruit, McGowens burst on the scene as a freshman, averaging 11.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.9 steals and 1.7 assists per game. A two-time ACC Freshman of the Week, he finished third in the conference in steals per game and tied or set three single-game Pitt freshman records, including points (33, steals (7) and free throws (18). He reached double figures 17 times, highlighted by a career-high 33-point performance against Louisville.Kobe Webster comes to Nebraska after starting for three seasons at Western Illinois University. He will have one year of eligibility remaining after graduating in three years. Webster, who has totaled over 1,400 points and nearly 300 assists, while leading WIU in both scoring and assists in each of the past three seasons. A two-time All-Summit League selection, Webster averaged 17.1 points, 3.6 assists and 3.2 rebounds per game in 2019-20, ranking among the Summit League leaders in scoring (sixth, assists (fifth) and assist-to-turnover ratio (fourth, 1.72-to-1). He had 21 double-figure performances, highlighted by a school-record 40-point performance against Omaha.In addition to these five newcomers, Nebraska also adds a trio of Division I transfers who sat out the 2019-20 season in Dalano Banton, Shamiel Stevenson and Derrick Walker.

🏀 Huskers add WNCC star Teddy Allen, Wisconsin transfer & three more to men's hoops team

Denver Broncos general manager John Elway is set to address his team's biggest needs in the NFL draft after plugging his biggest holes during a busy offseason. 

Elway acquired cornerback A.J. Bouye and defensive lineman Jurrell Casey in trades and also signed offensive lineman Graham Glasgow, running back Melvin Gordon, tight end Nick Vannett, backup quarterback Jeff Driskel and punter Sam Martin in free agency. 

Those moves will allow Elway to focus on wide receivers and offensive linemen in the draft as he looks to give quarterback Drew Lock a better supporting cast.

Denver Broncos Draft Preview

LAST SEASON: Musical chairs at coach and quarterback in Denver finally ended when Vic Fangio turned to rookie Drew Lock, who went 4-1 — with only loss to Super Bowl champion Chiefs on the road. It was too late for the Broncos to avoid a third straight losing season but provided hope that John Elway finally found worthy successor to Peyton Manning.

Lost: DB Chris Harris Jr., DE Derek Wolfe, DB Will Parks, C Connor McGovern, LS Casey Kreiter. Didn’t re-sign G Ronald Leary, RB Theo Riddick, RB Devontae Booker, DE Adam Gotsis, ILB Corey Nelson, QB Brandon Allen. Traded FB Andy Janovich. 

Acquired: CB A.J. Bouye, DL Jurrell Casey, OL Graham Glasgow, RB Melvin Gordon, TE Nick Vannett, QB2 Jeff Driskel, P/KO Sam Martin.

POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Alabama WR Henry Ruggs III, Alabama WR Jerry Jeudy, Georgia OT Andrew Thomas.

OUTLOOK: Elway filled his biggest holes in free agency, freeing him up to focus on his two biggest needs in draft: offensive line and wide receiver, two areas that are deep this year.

Associated PressDenver Broncos general manager John Elway is set to address his team's biggest needs in the NFL draft after plugging his biggest holes during a busy offseason. Elway acquired cornerback A.J. Bouye and defensive lineman Jurrell Casey in trades and also signed offensive lineman Graham Glasgow, running back Melvin Gordon, tight end Nick Vannett, backup quarterback Jeff Driskel and punter Sam Martin in free agency. Those moves will allow Elway to focus on wide receivers and offensive linemen in the draft as he looks to give quarterback Drew Lock a better supporting cast.Denver Broncos Draft PreviewRound 1: Pick #15 - DENVER (7-9 in 2019)LAST SEASON: Musical chairs at coach and quarterback in Denver finally ended when Vic Fangio turned to rookie Drew Lock, who went 4-1 — with only loss to Super Bowl champion Chiefs on the road. It was too late for the Broncos to avoid a third straight losing season but provided hope that John Elway finally found worthy successor to Peyton Manning.FREE AGENCY:Lost: DB Chris Harris Jr., DE Derek Wolfe, DB Will Parks, C Connor McGovern, LS Casey Kreiter. Didn’t re-sign G Ronald Leary, RB Theo Riddick, RB Devontae Booker, DE Adam Gotsis, ILB Corey Nelson, QB Brandon Allen. Traded FB Andy Janovich. Acquired: CB A.J. Bouye, DL Jurrell Casey, OL Graham Glasgow, RB Melvin Gordon, TE Nick Vannett, QB2 Jeff Driskel, P/KO Sam Martin.THEY NEED: OL, WR, DB, ILBTHEY DON’T NEED: RB, TE, DE, KPOSSIBLE FIRST PICK: Alabama WR Henry Ruggs III, Alabama WR Jerry Jeudy, Georgia OT Andrew Thomas.OUTLOOK: Elway filled his biggest holes in free agency, freeing him up to focus on his two biggest needs in draft: offensive line and wide receiver, two areas that are deep this year.

What direction are the Broncos leaning in next week's NFL Draft?

By: Dave Collins, Eagle Radio Chadron Sports Director

When college football season comes back this fall the Chadron State Eagles will have a unique schedule that creates some big excitement with three night games on the schedule.

A handful of kickoff times had been posted or announced by CSC and opponents as winter turned to spring, and a check on the CSC athletics website Tuesday morning reveled the school has now posted all of the official 2020 kickoff times.

The biggest update is seeing the October 10 game at arch-rival CSU-Pueblo being slated for an evening start, 6:00 PM in Pueblo.&nbsp; The game joins the Eagles Week 2 road game at Missouri S&amp;T and Week 3 road contest at SD Mines in the same time slot.&nbsp; CSC will have three road night games but none at Elliott Field in Chadron.

Here's the complete 2020 CSC football schedule with updated kickoff times:

By: Dave Collins, Eagle Radio Chadron Sports DirectorWhen college football season comes back this fall the Chadron State Eagles will have a unique schedule that creates some big excitement with three night games on the schedule.A handful of kickoff times had been posted or announced by CSC and opponents as winter turned to spring, and a check on the CSC athletics website Tuesday morning reveled the school has now posted all of the official 2020 kickoff times.The biggest update is seeing the October 10 game at arch-rival CSU-Pueblo being slated for an evening start, 6:00 PM in Pueblo.&nbsp; The game joins the Eagles Week 2 road game at Missouri S&amp;T and Week 3 road contest at SD Mines in the same time slot.&nbsp; CSC will have three road night games but none at Elliott Field in Chadron.Here's the complete 2020 CSC football schedule with updated kickoff times:9/5 - Western Colorado - Noon9/12 - at Missouri S&amp;T - 6:009/19 - at SD Mines - 6:009/26 - Colorado Mesa (Homecoming) - 1:0010/3 - New Mexico Highlands - Noon10/10 - at CSU-Pueblo - 6:0010/17 - Adams State - Noon10/24 - at Fort Lewis - Noon10/31 - Colorado School of Mines - Noon11/7 - at Western Oregon - 2:0511/14 - Black Hills State - Noon

Chadron State football schedule is complete with trio of night games

Houston Rockets star Russell Westbrook has donated 650 computers to children in need so they can continue learning with schools shut down because of the new coronavirus.

Westbrook’s Why Not? Foundation teamed with Comp-U-Dopt and Houston mayor Sylvester Turner’s office of education to provide computers to underprivileged children across the city.

Comp-U-Dopt has given almost 1,000 computers to families in Houston since March 18 through a computer drive-thru. Families register through the Comp-U-Dopt website and can get a free computer if they are selected through a lottery. Turner’s office said that 83% of students given computers live in households earning less than $35,000 a year.

“Russell Westbrook proves why he is a champion on and off the court,” Turner said. “This donation will be a game changer for many students and their families coping with the impact of the COVID-19 crisis.”

Associated PressHouston Rockets star Russell Westbrook has donated 650 computers to children in need so they can continue learning with schools shut down because of the new coronavirus.Westbrook’s Why Not? Foundation teamed with Comp-U-Dopt and Houston mayor Sylvester Turner’s office of education to provide computers to underprivileged children across the city.Comp-U-Dopt has given almost 1,000 computers to families in Houston since March 18 through a computer drive-thru. Families register through the Comp-U-Dopt website and can get a free computer if they are selected through a lottery. Turner’s office said that 83% of students given computers live in households earning less than $35,000 a year.“Russell Westbrook proves why he is a champion on and off the court,” Turner said. “This donation will be a game changer for many students and their families coping with the impact of the COVID-19 crisis.”

NBA star donates 650 computers to children in need as schools remain closed

Nebraska fans can scratch their football itch Saturday when the school’s athletic department streams a virtual spring game on its social media platforms.

All 39 spring games scheduled this week have been canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Nebraska spring game typically draws as many as 85,000 at Memorial Stadium. Last year’s contest generated about $1 million in ticket sales and concessions.

The virtual spring game will feature Nebraska greats of the past with audio provided by the voices of the Learfield IMG College/Husker Sports radio network.

Georgia has produced a virtual G-Day plan for Saturday. The SEC Network will re-broadcast the 2019 game against Notre Dame. Bulldogs coach Kirby Smart will tweet commentary. The team’s radio broadcast team will have a Facebook live broadcast.

Notre Dame is holding a Saturday night “watch party” with the 2006 game against UCLA on the athletic department’s YouTube channel. There will be a fan chat, trivia questions and chances to win Fighting Irish apparel.

Associated PressNebraska fans can scratch their football itch Saturday when the school’s athletic department streams a virtual spring game on its social media platforms.All 39 spring games scheduled this week have been canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic.The Nebraska spring game typically draws as many as 85,000 at Memorial Stadium. Last year’s contest generated about $1 million in ticket sales and concessions.The virtual spring game will feature Nebraska greats of the past with audio provided by the voices of the Learfield IMG College/Husker Sports radio network.Georgia has produced a virtual G-Day plan for Saturday. The SEC Network will re-broadcast the 2019 game against Notre Dame. Bulldogs coach Kirby Smart will tweet commentary. The team’s radio broadcast team will have a Facebook live broadcast.Notre Dame is holding a Saturday night “watch party” with the 2006 game against UCLA on the athletic department’s YouTube channel. There will be a fan chat, trivia questions and chances to win Fighting Irish apparel.

Huskers hosting "virtual spring game" Saturday

The Cleveland Browns will donate net proceeds from sales of their new jerseys to a fund aiding health care professionals, first responders and others who have selflessly served during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The team launched the Hats Off to Our Heroes Fund on Monday, two days before it will reveal the new uniforms. The Browns said the team will commit 100 percent of the proceeds “for a significant period of time” to the fund.

“When finalizing our uniform announcement, we realized we had an incredible opportunity to further our support of heroes battling COVID-19 on the front lines for our entire community,” executive vice president JW Johnson said. “We hope the excitement surrounding the new uniforms can help make a significant impact through the Hats Off to Our Heroes Fund, and we greatly appreciate the support from our fans, retail partners and team to make this special way to give back to those leaders possible.”

This is the second time in four years the Browns have changed uniforms. The new ones are expected to embrace concepts from previous versions. The team is not expected to make any major changes to its iconic orange logo-less helmet.

Associated PressThe Cleveland Browns will donate net proceeds from sales of their new jerseys to a fund aiding health care professionals, first responders and others who have selflessly served during the COVID-19 pandemic.The team launched the Hats Off to Our Heroes Fund on Monday, two days before it will reveal the new uniforms. The Browns said the team will commit 100 percent of the proceeds “for a significant period of time” to the fund.“When finalizing our uniform announcement, we realized we had an incredible opportunity to further our support of heroes battling COVID-19 on the front lines for our entire community,” executive vice president JW Johnson said. “We hope the excitement surrounding the new uniforms can help make a significant impact through the Hats Off to Our Heroes Fund, and we greatly appreciate the support from our fans, retail partners and team to make this special way to give back to those leaders possible.”This is the second time in four years the Browns have changed uniforms. The new ones are expected to embrace concepts from previous versions. The team is not expected to make any major changes to its iconic orange logo-less helmet.

Browns donating proceeds from jersey sales to health care personnel

NEW YORK (AP) — ESPN and NFL Network will join forces for this year’s NFL draft. They will produce a broadcast that will air on both networks over all three days. 

The April 23-25 draft was originally scheduled to be in Las Vegas, but has been moved due to the coronavirus pandemic. It will now originate from ESPN’s headquarters from Bristol, Connecticut. 

Draft hosts and a limited number of commentators will be in-studio, but will adhere to social distancing guidelines.Commissioner Roger Goodell will introduce picks from his home in Bronxville, New York. 

ABC will air a separate draft broadcast on Thursday and Friday before simulcasting the ESPN/NFL Network feed on Saturday.

NEW YORK (AP) — ESPN and NFL Network will join forces for this year’s NFL draft. They will produce a broadcast that will air on both networks over all three days. The April 23-25 draft was originally scheduled to be in Las Vegas, but has been moved due to the coronavirus pandemic. It will now originate from ESPN’s headquarters from Bristol, Connecticut. Draft hosts and a limited number of commentators will be in-studio, but will adhere to social distancing guidelines.Commissioner Roger Goodell will introduce picks from his home in Bronxville, New York. ABC will air a separate draft broadcast on Thursday and Friday before simulcasting the ESPN/NFL Network feed on Saturday.

With a virtual NFL Draft how will fans be able to watch?

BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) — Athletes completing doping bans over the next year will be eligible to compete in the postponed Tokyo Olympics. It is an unintended effect of the coronavirus pandemic that has some crying foul. Turkish runner Gamze Bulut is one example. She will now have plenty of time to qualify for a games she likely would have missed had they gone ahead as scheduled. But Irish race walker Brendan Boyce says “it doesn’t seem like a fair punishment” because they haven’t missed the events they were supposed to miss. The 2020 Olympics were officially postponed last month for one year.

BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) — Athletes completing doping bans over the next year will be eligible to compete in the postponed Tokyo Olympics. It is an unintended effect of the coronavirus pandemic that has some crying foul. Turkish runner Gamze Bulut is one example. She will now have plenty of time to qualify for a games she likely would have missed had they gone ahead as scheduled. But Irish race walker Brendan Boyce says “it doesn’t seem like a fair punishment” because they haven’t missed the events they were supposed to miss. The 2020 Olympics were officially postponed last month for one year.

Athletes completing doping bans could now compete in new 2021 Olympics

Without games for nearly a month fans are finding themselves having to look harder for ways to find their sports fix.&nbsp; From virtual NASCAR races to video game tournaments with NBA players as the closest thing to live games involving professional athletes it's getting harder and harder to stay patient while we wait out the COVID-19 pandemic and clamor for the days of full stadiums and live competition.

Chadron State has gotten in on the virtual act with some creative ideas to engage with Eagle fans, like teaming with the NCAA D2 virtual wrestling national tournament through promoting voting on Twitter and hosting a CSC all-time wrestler head-to-head, March Madness-style fan voting competition.

Former men's basketball head coach Houston Reed started a basketball virtual bracket and included scouting reports of his former college teammates, coaches he knows well and some current Eagle players all in the name of fun while fans coped with the real March Madness bracket getting canceled.

Now, CSC football coach Jay Long has introduced one that should get a lot of attention and be pretty exciting with the CSC Football All-Time Team bracket.&nbsp; It's a 32-team, four region fan voting competition that will whittle down the final four CSC football teams of all-time and ultimately crown a champion.

It's free to vote for all 16 first round match-ups, but there is a fund-raising effort attached to the fun where the football program has set a goal of $4,000. As of Saturday late-morning over $1,800 had already been raised.

<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/2020/4/6/chadron-state-football-all-time-team-bracket.aspx">Check out the bracket, match-ups and detailed descriptions for 32 of CSC's best all-time football teams and vote/donate here!</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586623802591.jpeg" alt="CSC Football All-Time Tourney Bracket" />
 <figcaption>CSC Football All-Time Tourney Bracket</figcaption>
 </figure>By: Dave Collins, Eagle Radio Chadron Sports DirectorWithout games for nearly a month fans are finding themselves having to look harder for ways to find their sports fix.&nbsp; From virtual NASCAR races to video game tournaments with NBA players as the closest thing to live games involving professional athletes it's getting harder and harder to stay patient while we wait out the COVID-19 pandemic and clamor for the days of full stadiums and live competition.Chadron State has gotten in on the virtual act with some creative ideas to engage with Eagle fans, like teaming with the NCAA D2 virtual wrestling national tournament through promoting voting on Twitter and hosting a CSC all-time wrestler head-to-head, March Madness-style fan voting competition.Former men's basketball head coach Houston Reed started a basketball virtual bracket and included scouting reports of his former college teammates, coaches he knows well and some current Eagle players all in the name of fun while fans coped with the real March Madness bracket getting canceled.Now, CSC football coach Jay Long has introduced one that should get a lot of attention and be pretty exciting with the CSC Football All-Time Team bracket.&nbsp; It's a 32-team, four region fan voting competition that will whittle down the final four CSC football teams of all-time and ultimately crown a champion.It's free to vote for all 16 first round match-ups, but there is a fund-raising effort attached to the fun where the football program has set a goal of $4,000. As of Saturday late-morning over $1,800 had already been raised.<a href="https://chadroneagles.com/sports/2020/4/6/chadron-state-football-all-time-team-bracket.aspx">Check out the bracket, match-ups and detailed descriptions for 32 of CSC's best all-time football teams and vote/donate here!</a>

CSC Football All-Time Tourney Fan Bracket & Fundraiser Begins!

The 2019-20 Alliance girls basketball season had plenty of ups and downs, but despite an 0-23 record, the Lady Bulldogs played with a lot of heart and&nbsp; determination,&nbsp; and made great improvement through the season.&nbsp; Head Coach,&nbsp; Dr. Troy Unzicker announced the team award winners for Varsity, JV and Freshman.&nbsp; These awards were voted on by team members.&nbsp;

Miss Defense:&nbsp; Varsity, Angie Davis.&nbsp; JV, Emma Wood.&nbsp; Freshman, Haley Weare.

Miss Hustle:&nbsp; Varsity, Payton Weber.&nbsp; JV, Emma Wood and Luna Gonzalez.&nbsp; Freshman, Kenna Montes and Delaney Childers

6th Man:&nbsp; Varisty, Shelbee Burke.&nbsp; &nbsp;JV, Bailey Stark.&nbsp; Freshman, Kenna Montes

Most Improved:&nbsp; Varisty, Leyton Schnell.&nbsp; &nbsp;JV, Braelyn Shrewsbury.&nbsp; Freshman,&nbsp; Dezyrae Hausmann

Best Teammate:&nbsp; &nbsp;Varsity, Payton Weber.&nbsp; &nbsp;JV, Shelbee Burke.&nbsp; Freshman, Kenna Montes

MVP:&nbsp; Varsity, Payton Weber.&nbsp; &nbsp;JV, Shelbee Burke.&nbsp; Freshman, Kenna Montes.

Team Captains:&nbsp;&nbsp; Varsity, Payton Weber and Cameron Tritle.&nbsp; &nbsp;JV. Shelbee Burke and Keeley Mazanec.&nbsp; &nbsp;Freshman, Bailey Stark and Kenna Montes.&nbsp;

Special thanks to the 3 seniors on this years team..Payton Weber, Cameron Tritle and Jordan Hopp. You are all&nbsp; great leaders, teammates and young ladies.&nbsp;

By: Mike GlesingerThe 2019-20 Alliance girls basketball season had plenty of ups and downs, but despite an 0-23 record, the Lady Bulldogs played with a lot of heart and&nbsp; determination,&nbsp; and made great improvement through the season.&nbsp; Head Coach,&nbsp; Dr. Troy Unzicker announced the team award winners for Varsity, JV and Freshman.&nbsp; These awards were voted on by team members.&nbsp;Miss Defense:&nbsp; Varsity, Angie Davis.&nbsp; JV, Emma Wood.&nbsp; Freshman, Haley Weare.Miss Hustle:&nbsp; Varsity, Payton Weber.&nbsp; JV, Emma Wood and Luna Gonzalez.&nbsp; Freshman, Kenna Montes and Delaney Childers6th Man:&nbsp; Varisty, Shelbee Burke.&nbsp; &nbsp;JV, Bailey Stark.&nbsp; Freshman, Kenna MontesMost Improved:&nbsp; Varisty, Leyton Schnell.&nbsp; &nbsp;JV, Braelyn Shrewsbury.&nbsp; Freshman,&nbsp; Dezyrae HausmannBest Teammate:&nbsp; &nbsp;Varsity, Payton Weber.&nbsp; &nbsp;JV, Shelbee Burke.&nbsp; Freshman, Kenna MontesMVP:&nbsp; Varsity, Payton Weber.&nbsp; &nbsp;JV, Shelbee Burke.&nbsp; Freshman, Kenna Montes.Team Captains:&nbsp;&nbsp; Varsity, Payton Weber and Cameron Tritle.&nbsp; &nbsp;JV. Shelbee Burke and Keeley Mazanec.&nbsp; &nbsp;Freshman, Bailey Stark and Kenna Montes.&nbsp;Special thanks to the 3 seniors on this years team..Payton Weber, Cameron Tritle and Jordan Hopp. You are all&nbsp; great leaders, teammates and young ladies.&nbsp;

AHS Girls basketball team awards for 2019-20 season

The Panhandle Conference has named it's All Conference awards for girls and boys basketball and wrestling for the 2019-20 season. Congratulations to these student/athletes named&nbsp; all Panhandle Conference.&nbsp;

113...Creel Weber.. Hemingford.&nbsp; Honorable Mention.. Gabe Kohel.. Morrill

120...Daniel Kohel..Morrill. Honorable Mention.. Dalton Jones Hemingford

138...Dennis Vogl ... Crawford.&nbsp; Honorable Mention..Luke Honstein...Hemingford

145...Keagan Hitchcock ...Hemingford. Honorable Mention...Jesse Dunn.. Sioux County

152...Isaiah Bryner...Hemingford. Honorable Mention...Kolby Welling&nbsp; Crawford

160...Tyler Coleman...Hemingford.&nbsp; Honorable Mention.&nbsp; Allen McCumbers ...Sioux County

170...Rope Anders...Crawford.&nbsp; Honorable Mention... Alex Neefe...Hemingford

182...Bryce Seier...Morrill.&nbsp; Honorable Mention... Emma Gomez Hemingford

195...Jake Sellman...Hemingford.&nbsp; Honorable Mention... Harvey Wesly&nbsp; Hay Springs

285...Xavier Robb...Hemingford.&nbsp; Honorable Mention.. Fabian Hernandez Morrill

The Panhandle Conference has named it's All Conference awards for girls and boys basketball and wrestling for the 2019-20 season. Congratulations to these student/athletes named&nbsp; all Panhandle Conference.&nbsp;GIRLS TEAM1st TeamIlycia Guerue... Morrill... Jr.Blake Dodd... Crawford... Sr.Karlee Juhnke... Sioux County... Jr.Libby Schaefer... Morrill... Jr.Natalie Barry... Crawford... So.Kailey Klein... Sioux County... So.2nd TeamKodie Rempp... Sioux County... Jr.Morgan Peterson... Edgemont... So.Jasmine Dyer... Crawford... So.Makenzy Chancellor... Hemingford... Sr.Peyton Ostenson... Edgemont... Fr.Honorable MentionCarly Lemmon... Crawford... Fr.Jenna Ostenson... Edgemont... Sr.Lizzy Tidball... Edgemont... Sr.Sam Toof... Hay Springs... Fr.Hannah Hoos... Hay Springs... Jr.Catherine Bryner... Hemingford... Fr.Avery Davies... Hemingford... Fr.Shandie Hess... Morrill... Sr.Jaiden Steiner... Morrill... Jr.Suzanna Parker... Sioux County... Sr.BOYS TEAM1st TeamWill Ackerman... Crawford... Sr.Tanner Whetham... Morrill... Sr.Blake Lofink... Morrill... Sr.Caleb Simons... Edgemont... Jr.Tristan Hunter... Sioux County... Sr.2nd TeamBrian Turek... Hemingford... Jr.Tommy Watson... Sioux County... Sr.London Gillam... Crawford... Sr.Darin Turek... Hemingford... Fr.Kenny Wyland... Hemingford... Jr.Honorable MentionHays Frahm... Crawford... So.Grant Darrow... Edgemont... Jr.Logan DeCoste... Hay Springs ...So.Charles Twarling... Hay Springs... Jr.Gabe Varvel... Hay Springs... So.Alex Plog... Hemingford... Sr.Caden Lewis... Morrill... Jr.Kolten McMackin... Morrill... Jr.Michael Comstock... Sioux County... Sr.Tucker Monroe... Sioux County... So.ALL CONFERENCE WRESTLING106...&nbsp;Tayson Ernesti.. Hemingford113...Creel Weber.. Hemingford.&nbsp; Honorable Mention.. Gabe Kohel.. Morrill120...Daniel Kohel..Morrill. Honorable Mention.. Dalton Jones Hemingford126...Richard Moeller... Hemingford132...Carter Buhheit...Hemingford138...Dennis Vogl ... Crawford.&nbsp; Honorable Mention..Luke Honstein...Hemingford145...Keagan Hitchcock ...Hemingford. Honorable Mention...Jesse Dunn.. Sioux County152...Isaiah Bryner...Hemingford. Honorable Mention...Kolby Welling&nbsp; Crawford160...Tyler Coleman...Hemingford.&nbsp; Honorable Mention.&nbsp; Allen McCumbers ...Sioux County170...Rope Anders...Crawford.&nbsp; Honorable Mention... Alex Neefe...Hemingford182...Bryce Seier...Morrill.&nbsp; Honorable Mention... Emma Gomez Hemingford195...Jake Sellman...Hemingford.&nbsp; Honorable Mention... Harvey Wesly&nbsp; Hay Springs220...Jett Eggers...Hemingford285...Xavier Robb...Hemingford.&nbsp; Honorable Mention.. Fabian Hernandez Morrill

Panhandle Conference All Conference Awards for Girls/Boys basketball & wrestling

The NCAA is allowing spring sports student-athletes to have another year of eligibility since their seasons were cancelled by the COVID-19 outbreak.

I asked Chadron State College Associate Athletic Director Chris Green about the process and to give us a scenario involving this unprecedented situation.

Green responded with "Basically from my understanding (there's) no application to be filled out. It is just a self-applied (institution) waiver. So essentially for us, all softball and women's golf student-athletes just won’t have a season added. Everyone will stay at the year they are currently on."

So, a senior stays a senior, and a sophomore stays a sophomore, and so forth in athletic standing.

What gets interesting is when student-athletes approach their semester limit for competition.&nbsp; Green says in Division II athletes are allowed 10 semesters to complete four seasons.

So for players with injuries or other issues factored in over their career there may be a few more hurdles to clear, and coaches/administrators will have to keep a close eye on timing to ensure athletes do in fact get their extra sports season.

For example, look at this scenario for a hypothetical incoming freshman that would have started school at CSC a few years back:

-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-17: 2 semesters, 1st&nbsp;season used

-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2017-18: 2 semesters used (4 total, 2nd&nbsp;season used

-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2018-19: 2 semesters used (6 total, 3rd&nbsp;season used, however player was injured and a Medical Hardship Waiver was approved (Medical Redshirt) so the 3rd season is given back.

-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2019-20: 2 semesters used (8 total, medical redshirt/3rd&nbsp;season used.&nbsp; Plus, the COVID-19 ruling then gives the 3rd season back, again.&nbsp; The athlete still has 2 seasons remaining but only 2 semesters.

-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2020-21: 2 semesters used (10 total, 3rd&nbsp;season used (COVID-19 replacement season)

-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2021-22: 2 semesters used (12 total, 4th&nbsp;season used (eligibility exhausted)

Under this scenario according to Green the student-athlete/CSC would have to apply for an extension waiver to get more semesters if they choose to come back to complete all 4 seasons, which would be the 2021-22 campaign.

Green says, "The NCAA passed an extension blanket waiver but only for student-athletes exhausting eligibility this spring (2020.) So for all other student-athletes, we have to actually apply for a waiver and get it approved."

It is somewhat simple, but still a little murky in spots and there will be plenty for both schools and the NCAA to button up as the process moves forward with un-anticipated issues and player scenarios.

Tune in Wednesday night for my visit with CSC softball center fielder, senior Ellie Owens who sheds some light on the issue with her personal decision regarding the extra year, distance-learning and the possibility of getting back to the RMAC Tournament with a team that appeared headed that way when coronavirus crushed those chances this spring.

Owens will be on the Chadron State Sports Journal show Wednesday evening at 5:25 on 97.5 FM and streamed on panhandlepost.com.

By: Dave Collins, Eagle Radio Chadron Sports DirectorThe NCAA is allowing spring sports student-athletes to have another year of eligibility since their seasons were cancelled by the COVID-19 outbreak.So, how will it work?I asked Chadron State College Associate Athletic Director Chris Green about the process and to give us a scenario involving this unprecedented situation.Green responded with "Basically from my understanding (there's) no application to be filled out. It is just a self-applied (institution) waiver. So essentially for us, all softball and women's golf student-athletes just won’t have a season added. Everyone will stay at the year they are currently on."So, a senior stays a senior, and a sophomore stays a sophomore, and so forth in athletic standing.What gets interesting is when student-athletes approach their semester limit for competition.&nbsp; Green says in Division II athletes are allowed 10 semesters to complete four seasons.So for players with injuries or other issues factored in over their career there may be a few more hurdles to clear, and coaches/administrators will have to keep a close eye on timing to ensure athletes do in fact get their extra sports season.For example, look at this scenario for a hypothetical incoming freshman that would have started school at CSC a few years back:-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2016-17: 2 semesters, 1st&nbsp;season used-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2017-18: 2 semesters used (4 total, 2nd&nbsp;season used-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2018-19: 2 semesters used (6 total, 3rd&nbsp;season used, however player was injured and a Medical Hardship Waiver was approved (Medical Redshirt) so the 3rd season is given back.-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2019-20: 2 semesters used (8 total, medical redshirt/3rd&nbsp;season used.&nbsp; Plus, the COVID-19 ruling then gives the 3rd season back, again.&nbsp; The athlete still has 2 seasons remaining but only 2 semesters.-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2020-21: 2 semesters used (10 total, 3rd&nbsp;season used (COVID-19 replacement season)-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2021-22: 2 semesters used (12 total, 4th&nbsp;season used (eligibility exhausted)Under this scenario according to Green the student-athlete/CSC would have to apply for an extension waiver to get more semesters if they choose to come back to complete all 4 seasons, which would be the 2021-22 campaign.Green says, "The NCAA passed an extension blanket waiver but only for student-athletes exhausting eligibility this spring (2020.) So for all other student-athletes, we have to actually apply for a waiver and get it approved."It is somewhat simple, but still a little murky in spots and there will be plenty for both schools and the NCAA to button up as the process moves forward with un-anticipated issues and player scenarios.Tune in Wednesday night for my visit with CSC softball center fielder, senior Ellie Owens who sheds some light on the issue with her personal decision regarding the extra year, distance-learning and the possibility of getting back to the RMAC Tournament with a team that appeared headed that way when coronavirus crushed those chances this spring.Owens will be on the Chadron State Sports Journal show Wednesday evening at 5:25 on 97.5 FM and streamed on panhandlepost.com.

How will an extra season for spring college athletes be handled?

CASPER, Wyo. (Casper (Wyo.) Star-Tribune) — Wyoming's 2020 Shrine Bowl all-star high school football game has been canceled due to the coronavirus. 

Executive director Frank Selby said he couldn't ask for local businesses to support while they're reeling from closures due to the coronavirus. He says it's also unclear whether it would be safe to hold the game. 

This year's game, the 47th in the annual series, was scheduled for June 13 in Casper. The rosters were announced in January. 

Money for sponsorships and program ads from businesses along with game and banquet ticket sales will will be refunded within 30 days.

Associated PressCASPER, Wyo. (Casper (Wyo.) Star-Tribune) — Wyoming's 2020 Shrine Bowl all-star high school football game has been canceled due to the coronavirus. Executive director Frank Selby said he couldn't ask for local businesses to support while they're reeling from closures due to the coronavirus. He says it's also unclear whether it would be safe to hold the game. This year's game, the 47th in the annual series, was scheduled for June 13 in Casper. The rosters were announced in January. Money for sponsorships and program ads from businesses along with game and banquet ticket sales will will be refunded within 30 days.

COVID-19 casualty: Wyoming high school football Shrine Bowl

Golf will only have three major championships at the most this year. The R&amp;A announced it is canceling the British Open in July because of the spread of COVID-19. It is pushing the British Open back one year and staying at Royal St. George's.

It's the first time the British Open is not being played since 1945 because of World War II. By keeping it at Royal St. George's, the R&amp;A assures the 150th Open will be at St. Andrews in 2022.

Other organizations are expected to announce the PGA Championship moving to August, the U.S. Open to September and the Masters to November.&nbsp;

Associated PressGolf will only have three major championships at the most this year. The R&amp;A announced it is canceling the British Open in July because of the spread of COVID-19. It is pushing the British Open back one year and staying at Royal St. George's.It's the first time the British Open is not being played since 1945 because of World War II. By keeping it at Royal St. George's, the R&amp;A assures the 150th Open will be at St. Andrews in 2022.Other organizations are expected to announce the PGA Championship moving to August, the U.S. Open to September and the Masters to November.&nbsp;

PGA Tour: Masters moves to November, British Open cancelled

Roster changeover continues with the Husker men's basketball program.&nbsp; Scoring guard Trey McGowans announced on Twitter over the weekend he was planning a move from Pitt to Nebraska.&nbsp;

Starting in all but one game this past season, McGowans scored 11.5 points a night and made 41 threes in his sophomore year for the Panthers.&nbsp; Two of his biggest nights were against Louisville and at North Carolina during when he scored 24 points in both games over a three-game stretch.

McGowans could find playing time immediately and become one of Nebraska's top go-to scorers as soon as he lands in Lincoln.

Prior to beginning his first season in Lincoln Head Coach Fred Hoiberg brought in the top two junior college transfers in the country, Cam Mack and Jervay Green.&nbsp; Both have announced their intentions to leave the NU program after just one season.&nbsp; Dachon Burke Jr, the team's second-leading scorer, has also announced he is leaving.

By: Dave Collins, Eagle Radio Chadron Sports DirectorRoster changeover continues with the Husker men's basketball program.&nbsp; Scoring guard Trey McGowans announced on Twitter over the weekend he was planning a move from Pitt to Nebraska.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">COMMITTED <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GBR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GBR</a>🌽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PuBd?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PuBd</a> <a href="https://t.co/ieTpZrtj4g">pic.twitter.com/ieTpZrtj4g</a>&mdash; Trey McGowens 3rd (@Trey5mac_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Trey5mac_/status/1246482694625808386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Starting in all but one game this past season, McGowans scored 11.5 points a night and made 41 threes in his sophomore year for the Panthers.&nbsp; Two of his biggest nights were against Louisville and at North Carolina during when he scored 24 points in both games over a three-game stretch.McGowans could find playing time immediately and become one of Nebraska's top go-to scorers as soon as he lands in Lincoln.Prior to beginning his first season in Lincoln Head Coach Fred Hoiberg brought in the top two junior college transfers in the country, Cam Mack and Jervay Green.&nbsp; Both have announced their intentions to leave the NU program after just one season.&nbsp; Dachon Burke Jr, the team's second-leading scorer, has also announced he is leaving.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I will be transferring from nebraska and keep my eligibility for the nba draft thanks! Stay safe ⭐️💫 <a href="https://t.co/GRuYi8kjUf">pic.twitter.com/GRuYi8kjUf</a>&mdash; Cam Mack (@Camiscute2) <a href="https://twitter.com/Camiscute2/status/1245750016788086791?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/7VSmonlb0v">pic.twitter.com/7VSmonlb0v</a>&mdash; Dachon Burke Jr (@__dburke) <a href="https://twitter.com/__dburke/status/1237268883884605440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Huskers land scoring guard from Pitt

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has suspended the sale of nonresident spring turkey hunting permits in order to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease, COVID-19. 

Nonresidents who already bought permits will be able to use them but will not be able to purchase additional permits. 

Nonresidents with Nebraska turkey permits will be contacted by Game and Parks through email with additional information, including potential refunds. 

Nebraska’s spring turkey season opened March 25 for archers. The shotgun season opens April 11 for youths and April 18 for adults. All turkey seasons close May 31.

Associated PressThe Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has suspended the sale of nonresident spring turkey hunting permits in order to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease, COVID-19. Nonresidents who already bought permits will be able to use them but will not be able to purchase additional permits. Nonresidents with Nebraska turkey permits will be contacted by Game and Parks through email with additional information, including potential refunds. Nebraska’s spring turkey season opened March 25 for archers. The shotgun season opens April 11 for youths and April 18 for adults. All turkey seasons close May 31.

Turkey hunting permit sales suspended for non-Nebraska residents

The Western Conference has named its All Conference teams for Girls and Boys basketball for 2019-20.&nbsp; Congratulations to these student athletes.&nbsp;

Girls&nbsp; All-Western Conference:

Scottsbluff:&nbsp; Mariyah Avila, Brady Laucomer

Gering:&nbsp; Chloey Fries, Taylor Philbrick

Sidney:&nbsp; Nicole Birner, Mattie Johnson, MJ Johnstone

Chadron:&nbsp; Olivia Reed, Shea Bailey, Tyleigh Strothide

Scottsbluff:&nbsp; Payton Burda, Emma Foote

Sidney:&nbsp; Karly Sylvester, Brynna Ross

Chadron:&nbsp; Anika Burke, Jacey Garrett

Mitchell:&nbsp; Ansley Hessler, Makenna Chambers

Alliance:&nbsp; Joel Baker, Bradyn Palmer, Caeson Clarke

Scottsbluff: Jasiya DeOllos, Chance Parker, Dawson Mohr

Mitchell:&nbsp; Blake Thyne, Austin Thyne

Alliance:&nbsp; Trevor Dubray, Kaden Kindred

Gering:&nbsp; Jack Franklin, Kolton Ebbers

Mitchell:&nbsp; Jonathan Pieper, Francisco Barrios

Chadron:&nbsp; Trevor Berry, Kristian Bartlett

By: Mike GlesingerThe Western Conference has named its All Conference teams for Girls and Boys basketball for 2019-20.&nbsp; Congratulations to these student athletes.&nbsp;Girls&nbsp; All-Western Conference:Alliance:&nbsp; Payton WeberScottsbluff:&nbsp; Mariyah Avila, Brady LaucomerGering:&nbsp; Chloey Fries, Taylor PhilbrickSidney:&nbsp; Nicole Birner, Mattie Johnson, MJ JohnstoneChadron:&nbsp; Olivia Reed, Shea Bailey, Tyleigh StrothideMitchell: Jayden Kanno, Marjie SchmittHonorable Mention:Alliance: Jordan Hopp, Shelbee BurkeScottsbluff:&nbsp; Payton Burda, Emma FooteGering:&nbsp; Macey BoggsSidney:&nbsp; Karly Sylvester, Brynna RossChadron:&nbsp; Anika Burke, Jacey GarrettMitchell:&nbsp; Ansley Hessler, Makenna ChambersBoys All-Western Conference:Alliance:&nbsp; Joel Baker, Bradyn Palmer, Caeson ClarkeScottsbluff: Jasiya DeOllos, Chance Parker, Dawson MohrGering: Bryce Sherrell, Brett PszankaMitchell:&nbsp; Blake Thyne, Austin ThyneSidney: Skylar HeinemanChadron: Cooper HeusmanHonorable Mention:Alliance:&nbsp; Trevor Dubray, Kaden KindredScottsbluff: Sam Clarkson, Jack DarnellGering:&nbsp; Jack Franklin, Kolton EbbersMitchell:&nbsp; Jonathan Pieper, Francisco BarriosSidney:&nbsp; Zach Burke, Sawyer DickmanChadron:&nbsp; Trevor Berry, Kristian Bartlett

Western Conference Girls/Boys basketball All Conference teams announced

The Nebraska School Activities Association has now cancelled all activity practices and competitions for the rest of the 2019-20 school year.&nbsp; The NSAA issued the following media release Thursday morning.

All remaining NSAA activity practices and competitions, including district and state competitions, have been cancelled for this school year. These cancelations are part of a new Directed Health Measure issued by Governor Ricketts.

Bylaw 3.2.7 (Summer Activities) will go into effect on May 26th.&nbsp; In the interim, Bylaw 3.2.6.1 (School-Year, Out-of-Season) is expected to be followed by all member school athletic programs.

The NSAA continues to encourage all member schools to follow CDC, local, state and federal health department recommendations.

The May 1st&nbsp;Transfer List deadline remains unchanged.

Any further official updates will be posted on the&nbsp;<a href="https://nsaahome.org/" target="_blank">NSAA website</a>, nsaahome.org&nbsp;&nbsp;and the NSAA social media platforms.

All panhandle schools remain closed through the rest of the school year as well.&nbsp; Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts issued the latest Directed Health Measure (DHM) on Monday, March 30 for the 12 panhandle counties....Banner, Box Butte, Cheyenne, Dawes, Duel, Garden, Grant, Kimball, Morrill, Scottsbluff, Sheridan and Sioux.&nbsp; The latest update by Panhandle Public Health District has confirmed 6 cases of COVID-19.&nbsp; 3 in Kimball&nbsp; County and 3 in Scottsbluff County

The Nebraska School Activities Association has now cancelled all activity practices and competitions for the rest of the 2019-20 school year.&nbsp; The NSAA issued the following media release Thursday morning.All remaining NSAA activity practices and competitions, including district and state competitions, have been cancelled for this school year. These cancelations are part of a new Directed Health Measure issued by Governor Ricketts.Bylaw 3.2.7 (Summer Activities) will go into effect on May 26th.&nbsp; In the interim, Bylaw 3.2.6.1 (School-Year, Out-of-Season) is expected to be followed by all member school athletic programs.The NSAA continues to encourage all member schools to follow CDC, local, state and federal health department recommendations.The May 1st&nbsp;Transfer List deadline remains unchanged.Any further official updates will be posted on the&nbsp;<a href="https://nsaahome.org/" target="_blank">NSAA website</a>, nsaahome.org&nbsp;&nbsp;and the NSAA social media platforms.All panhandle schools remain closed through the rest of the school year as well.&nbsp; Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts issued the latest Directed Health Measure (DHM) on Monday, March 30 for the 12 panhandle counties....Banner, Box Butte, Cheyenne, Dawes, Duel, Garden, Grant, Kimball, Morrill, Scottsbluff, Sheridan and Sioux.&nbsp; The latest update by Panhandle Public Health District has confirmed 6 cases of COVID-19.&nbsp; 3 in Kimball&nbsp; County and 3 in Scottsbluff County

NSAA spring activities cancelled for the remainder of the school year

Below are some examples of Furrier's innovation to use social media in connecting with the Wildcats and others who are looking to stay healthy while under severe restrictions due to COVID-19.

<div><iframe title="Chadron State Sports Journal: Former LB Dylan Furrier's career blossoming quickly at PAC-12 school" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/8ci5r-d7e32b?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=1&btn-skin=107&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div>Below are some examples of Furrier's innovation to use social media in connecting with the Wildcats and others who are looking to stay healthy while under severe restrictions due to COVID-19.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">TIME: The one thing we can never get back. Whether you want to lose weight, gain weight, maintain it, take this “extra” time we have to develop yourself as best you can! Don’t waste a meal!! 👀⬇️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/youknowitaintforeverybody?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#youknowitaintforeverybody</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ELITEMindset?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ELITEMindset</a> #🐻⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/9pOBG3BJU3">pic.twitter.com/9pOBG3BJU3</a>&mdash; Dylan Furrier (@CoachFurrier) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachFurrier/status/1243654724433227776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">• RECOVER QUICKER • FIGHT ILLNESS Slow recovery and getting sick is the last thing anyone needs right now... Stress plays a huge role in immune system function and health💪 3 🔑s to stay right ⬇️⬇️<a href="https://twitter.com/ArizonaFBall?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArizonaFBall</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/uaironcats?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@uaironcats</a> <a href="https://t.co/LbrwGRkMwS">pic.twitter.com/LbrwGRkMwS</a>&mdash; Dylan Furrier (@CoachFurrier) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachFurrier/status/1245129640156352513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WEEK 2 DAY 2 🔥🔥 PREWORK‼️ (2 of 4)<a href="https://twitter.com/uaironcats?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@uaironcats</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/_coachbee1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@_coachbee1</a> <a href="https://t.co/3OVew9i6G4">pic.twitter.com/3OVew9i6G4</a>&mdash; Dylan Furrier (@CoachFurrier) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachFurrier/status/1245417320224190468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🔊 Podcast: Former CSC LB Dylan Furrier’s career blossoming quickly at PAC-12 school

By: Con Marshall, CSC Sports Information

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Even with the Coronavirus pandemic slowing things to a crawl, Chadron State College Director of Athletics Joel Smith said it didn’t take long for word to get out that the Eagles needed a new head men’s basketball coach.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Almost as soon as the University of Northern Colorado posted on its website last Tuesday that Houston Reed, the Eagles’ head hoops mentor the past four years, had accepted an assistant coaching post at the Greeley institution, Smith said he was being contacted by potential applicants.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “Right after the word was out that Houston was leaving us, I was getting e-mails and phone calls,” Smith said.&nbsp; “Lots of guys seem to be interested in the job.&nbsp; I’m sure we’ll have many applicants.”

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; That number had already reached about 50 by the end of last week, Smith said.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; In early May 2016 when Reed was announced as the Eagles’ new coach, Smith said he was the selection committee’s top choice from among 160 applicants.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Smith is hoping a new coach can be named soon, but said he process will take some time while the opening is posted properly and he lines up a new selection committee to screen the candidates.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Smith has been working under a handicap. The previous week he slipped on ice and suffered a broken fibula in his left leg that required surgery in Rapid City.&nbsp; Because he had to leave the state, he was then quarantined at home for two weeks.&nbsp; However, with modern communications, he’s been able to take care of business, he said.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Reed’s invitation to move to Northern Colorado came from Steve Smiley, his basketball teammate at Northern State at Aberdeen, S.D., from 2002-04. Smiley had been the associate head coach at Northern Colorado the past four years and was named the Bears’ head coach on March 17, almost immediately after Jeff Linder, who had led the UNC program the past four years, was appointed the head hoops mentor at the University of Wyoming.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Bears have been successful.&nbsp; They had an 80-50 record the past four seasons, including three consecutive 20-win seasons.&nbsp; They were 22-9 this year and the No. 2 seed heading into the Big Sky Conference Tournament, which was among the many postseason events that were cancelled.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Reed said he was surprised when Smiley contacted him. “It’s a great opportunity and I couldn’t pass it up,” he stated.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Smiley said he was looking forward to having Reed work with the post players, help with recruiting “and just helping me with all his knowledge.”

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Prior to coming to Chadron State, Reed was the head coach at Otero Junior College at LaJunta, Colo., for 10 years, compiling a 174-110 record, including a 117-46 mark the final five years. His last team there won the Region IX Southern Division championship and he was voted the region’s Coach of the Year for the second time.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Reed also played his first two years of college basketball at Otero and, as a 6-foot-7 center, set the Rattlers’ single-game scoring record of 46 points.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Unfortunately, the success he enjoyed at Otero did not continue at Chadron State. The Eagles were 22-88 the past four season, led by a 12-16 record in 2018-19.&nbsp; This year’s 4-24 record was particularly disappointing.&nbsp; As the season was opening, Reed said he felt the Eagles had the wherewithal to be among the eight teams reaching the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference playoffs. However, they finished last in the standings.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The team was often competitive, but lost four games by three or fewer points and two more in overtime early in the season and never seemed to reach its potential.&nbsp; The Eagles were in contention in several other games, but were frequently outscored down the stretch.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The seniors on this year’s team--Brian Rodriguez-Flores, Michael Sparks and Colby Jackson--were three of the team’s four leading scorers. The current roster includes four players who will be seniors this coming season, three who will be juniors, four who will be sophomores and two who redshirted as freshmen this past year and have four years of eligibility remaining.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The coach, who was always cordial even when his team struggled, said after the season ended that some additions, particularly at the guards, would be needed to help improve the Eagles. Reed added that Jesse Barnes, a 6-foot-8 transfer from Canada who practiced with the team this past season while working on his eligibility, will be a force, particularly as a rebounder and defender.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The interior defense was a major problem for the Eagles in 2019-20, especially after forward Walker Andrew was injured and missed the final 10 games.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jalen Little, who has been Reed’s assistant each of the past four years, is now temporarily in charge of the program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The Reed family’s departure is a huge blow to the basketball programs at Chadron High School.&nbsp; The Reeds’ daughter, Olivia, was arguably the best player in the Panhandle this past season, when she shot 63.8 percent from the field, averaged 17.3 points and 7.2 rebounds and led the Lady Cardinals in steals with 92.&nbsp; Her younger brother, Johnnie, is a 6-foot-3 eighth grader with outstanding potential, according to those close to the middle school program.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Olivia also was a starter on the Chadron High volleyball team that went to state and she won the 200 meters, was second in the 400 and anchored the Cardinals’ winning 4-x-400 meter relay team at the Class B-6 District Track and Field Meet last spring. She also cleared 5-1 in the high jump.&nbsp;

By: Con Marshall, CSC Sports Information&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Even with the Coronavirus pandemic slowing things to a crawl, Chadron State College Director of Athletics Joel Smith said it didn’t take long for word to get out that the Eagles needed a new head men’s basketball coach.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Almost as soon as the University of Northern Colorado posted on its website last Tuesday that Houston Reed, the Eagles’ head hoops mentor the past four years, had accepted an assistant coaching post at the Greeley institution, Smith said he was being contacted by potential applicants.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “Right after the word was out that Houston was leaving us, I was getting e-mails and phone calls,” Smith said.&nbsp; “Lots of guys seem to be interested in the job.&nbsp; I’m sure we’ll have many applicants.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; That number had already reached about 50 by the end of last week, Smith said.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; In early May 2016 when Reed was announced as the Eagles’ new coach, Smith said he was the selection committee’s top choice from among 160 applicants.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Smith is hoping a new coach can be named soon, but said he process will take some time while the opening is posted properly and he lines up a new selection committee to screen the candidates.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Smith has been working under a handicap. The previous week he slipped on ice and suffered a broken fibula in his left leg that required surgery in Rapid City.&nbsp; Because he had to leave the state, he was then quarantined at home for two weeks.&nbsp; However, with modern communications, he’s been able to take care of business, he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Reed’s invitation to move to Northern Colorado came from Steve Smiley, his basketball teammate at Northern State at Aberdeen, S.D., from 2002-04. Smiley had been the associate head coach at Northern Colorado the past four years and was named the Bears’ head coach on March 17, almost immediately after Jeff Linder, who had led the UNC program the past four years, was appointed the head hoops mentor at the University of Wyoming.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Bears have been successful.&nbsp; They had an 80-50 record the past four seasons, including three consecutive 20-win seasons.&nbsp; They were 22-9 this year and the No. 2 seed heading into the Big Sky Conference Tournament, which was among the many postseason events that were cancelled.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Reed said he was surprised when Smiley contacted him. “It’s a great opportunity and I couldn’t pass it up,” he stated.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Smiley said he was looking forward to having Reed work with the post players, help with recruiting “and just helping me with all his knowledge.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Prior to coming to Chadron State, Reed was the head coach at Otero Junior College at LaJunta, Colo., for 10 years, compiling a 174-110 record, including a 117-46 mark the final five years. His last team there won the Region IX Southern Division championship and he was voted the region’s Coach of the Year for the second time.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Reed also played his first two years of college basketball at Otero and, as a 6-foot-7 center, set the Rattlers’ single-game scoring record of 46 points.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Unfortunately, the success he enjoyed at Otero did not continue at Chadron State. The Eagles were 22-88 the past four season, led by a 12-16 record in 2018-19.&nbsp; This year’s 4-24 record was particularly disappointing.&nbsp; As the season was opening, Reed said he felt the Eagles had the wherewithal to be among the eight teams reaching the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference playoffs. However, they finished last in the standings.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The team was often competitive, but lost four games by three or fewer points and two more in overtime early in the season and never seemed to reach its potential.&nbsp; The Eagles were in contention in several other games, but were frequently outscored down the stretch.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The seniors on this year’s team--Brian Rodriguez-Flores, Michael Sparks and Colby Jackson--were three of the team’s four leading scorers. The current roster includes four players who will be seniors this coming season, three who will be juniors, four who will be sophomores and two who redshirted as freshmen this past year and have four years of eligibility remaining.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The coach, who was always cordial even when his team struggled, said after the season ended that some additions, particularly at the guards, would be needed to help improve the Eagles. Reed added that Jesse Barnes, a 6-foot-8 transfer from Canada who practiced with the team this past season while working on his eligibility, will be a force, particularly as a rebounder and defender.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The interior defense was a major problem for the Eagles in 2019-20, especially after forward Walker Andrew was injured and missed the final 10 games.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Jalen Little, who has been Reed’s assistant each of the past four years, is now temporarily in charge of the program.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The Reed family’s departure is a huge blow to the basketball programs at Chadron High School.&nbsp; The Reeds’ daughter, Olivia, was arguably the best player in the Panhandle this past season, when she shot 63.8 percent from the field, averaged 17.3 points and 7.2 rebounds and led the Lady Cardinals in steals with 92.&nbsp; Her younger brother, Johnnie, is a 6-foot-3 eighth grader with outstanding potential, according to those close to the middle school program.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Olivia also was a starter on the Chadron High volleyball team that went to state and she won the 200 meters, was second in the 400 and anchored the Cardinals’ winning 4-x-400 meter relay team at the Class B-6 District Track and Field Meet last spring. She also cleared 5-1 in the high jump.&nbsp;

AD: Eager coaches aspiring to take over CSC men's hoops program

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The world definitely has much bigger problems created by the Coronavirus than the fact the Chadron State football team won’t be able to have spring practice.&nbsp; It’s a minuscule matter in the grand scheme of things.&nbsp; Many have died and other lives are in jeopardy, health care facilities and services are overwhelmed.

By: Con Marshall, CSC Sports Information&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The world definitely has much bigger problems created by the Coronavirus than the fact the Chadron State football team won’t be able to have spring practice.&nbsp; It’s a minuscule matter in the grand scheme of things.&nbsp; Many have died and other lives are in jeopardy, health care facilities and services are overwhelmed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Even on the Chadron State campus no spring football is not a catastrophic matter.&nbsp; Face-to-face classes have been cancelled, forcing most students, including football players, to go home and finish the semester through on-line courses. Refunds are having to be made to students who were living in the dorms, major events have been cancelled, student jobs have disappeared and adjustments must to be made in some areas so seniors can complete their degrees.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Even on the athletic front, others at CSC have it just as bad or worse.&nbsp; Football coaches and players are still perplexed. There’s always been spring football in one form or another for at least 50 years. It’s the way things are done to prepare for next season.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; On the other hand, all the opponents are in the same boat, unless they’d held spring practice before the horrible malady reared its ugly head in mid-March. Most teams, like the Eagles, space out their 15 practices from late March through the third week of April.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “We have more questions than answers,” CSC Head Coach Jay Long said. “The way things stand, we coaches can’t be involved in any workouts or even allow the players to use the weight rooms or the gyms on campus until at least May 1.&nbsp; We can contact them and encourage them in their academics, which we’ve been doing, but we can’t talk to them about football.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; That doesn’t mean the coaches have been hibernating since the restrictions were made. Long said he and his staff have been developing the playbook for the 2020 season, are preparing for the camps they annually host for high school teams in June and are looking ahead to recruiting 2021 high school seniors and junior college players.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Long said coaches can contact prospects now, but campus visits are not allowed.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The coaches also have been involved in professional development like sharing drills and techniques on-line with other coaching staffs.&nbsp; This week, Long is slated to use Skype or similar electronic systems to explain how he coaches the CSC offensive lineman to members of the South Dakota Coaches Association who want to join in.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since football is a complicated game, spring practice is highly regarded at the college level. It allows coaches to find the players to replace last fall’s seniors, perhaps make some position changes, develop depth by helping young players get ready to take the field, install new schemes, etc.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since former CSC standout Micah Smith is the Eagles’ new offensive coordinator, the latter was high on the plans for this spring.&nbsp; Now, he will have to wait until August to introduce his ideas on the field.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Five RMAC teams --Black Hills State, Colorado Mesa, Fort Lewis,&nbsp; New Mexico Highlands and South Dakota Mines--have new head coaches and major staff changes that likely will be at a disadvantage with no spring drills at their disposal.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Eagles graduated 18 players from last year’s 6-5 team.&nbsp; The spring roster on the CSC website lists 71 names of players who were on last year’s team, headed by about 20 who were starters or primary alternates.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Nearly a dozen others transferred to CSC at the start of the second semester in January and were looking forward to strutting their stuff this spring so they could earn playing time in the fall. The coaches also were hoping to size up the newcomers get them integrated into the Eagles’ system.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Long said the fact the Eagles return all-star quarterback Dalton Holst gives them a big advantage over teams that will be breaking in new signal callers and won’t have spring practice to get them familiar with their schemes.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The CSC offense also returns inside receiver Cole Thurness, the team’s MVP the past two years; 1,000-yard rusher Elijah Miles; tight end Colt Foster; and all the starters in the line except Jared Maciejczak.&nbsp; However, the Eagles need a pair of outside receivers to replace seniors Tevon Wright and Brandon Fullerton. The latter was slated to be a primary point of emphasis this spring.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; On the defensive side, the Eagles will miss end Calder Forcella, linebacker Tyler Lewis, cornerback DeAndre Barthwell and safety Tyree Fryar, who have concluded their eligibility. But the defense returns line mainstays such as Brandon Hopkins and Joel Carpenter, inside linebacker Travis Wilson, who was the team’s leading tackler last fall, outside backer Noah Kerchal and several safeties who saw considerable action.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;“We’ll be all right if the players stay away from this nasty disease and come back in shape,” CSC defensive coordinator Craig Jersild said. “They don’t learn nearly as well if they’re not in shape and are tired during practice.”&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Both Long and Jersild said their main emphasis while contacting the players is the need to take the time to keep up with their studies this spring.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; “I’m telling them to put their phones down, forget about playing video games and turn off the TV,” Jersild said. “They need to make sure they are keeping up with their studies. That and staying in shape are their main jobs.” Jersild said.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The veteran coach added “it’s scary” for him and his cohorts, who after classroom sessions were cancelled, won’t have face-to-face contact with the players for 21 weeks unless the gridders remain in Chadron or return during the summer after the coronavirus subsides.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Long said about half the Eagles’ veterans had jobs lined up and planned to remain in Chadron so they could work out with teammates this summer. Only time will tell how that plays out.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Also, there’ll be no outdoor track season, meaning sophomore sensation Brodie Roden, who was named the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference’s Outstanding Male Track Athlete during the indoor season, won’t get to compete outdoors because that schedule has been erased. And, the softball and golf teams had the remainder of their schedules obliterated just as they seemed to have things rolling.&nbsp;Previously two indoor track and field athletes and three wrestlers who had qualified for national competition had those events cancelled just a few hours before they were to compete.