By: Dave Collins Sports Director X: @DMCbroadcasting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

CSC safety faces long rehabilitation after devastating practice injury Saturday

Alliance High School Athletic Department

M 8-19:&nbsp;Softball scrimmage 6:00 pm

T 8-20:&nbsp;Volleyball scrimmage 5:00 pm

T 8-20:&nbsp;Boys tennis scrimmage 6:00 pm

Th 8-22: Girls' golf exhibition time 4:30pm - 5:30pm @ Skyview Golf Course. (Bring your wedges and putters to win prizes on the putting green!)

Th 8-22:&nbsp;Volleyball jamboree at Gering 5:00 pm

F 8-23: Big Blue Barbeque 6:30 pm at Bulldog Stadium

F 8-23:&nbsp;Football exhibition 7:00 pm

F 8-23:&nbsp;Softball triangular at Holdrege&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

4:30 pm CT/3:30pm MT Holdrege vs Hershey&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

6:00 pm CT/5:00pm MT Alliance vs Hershey&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 

&nbsp;7:30pm CT/6:00pm MT Alliance vs Holdrege

Sat 8-24:&nbsp;Big Blue 5K @ 8:00 am

Sat 8-24:&nbsp;Softball at Lexington Invite 9:00 am CT/8:00am MT

Alliance High School Athletic DepartmentM 8-19:&nbsp;Softball scrimmage 6:00 pmT 8-20:&nbsp;Volleyball scrimmage 5:00 pmT 8-20:&nbsp;Boys tennis scrimmage 6:00 pmTh 8-22: Girls' golf exhibition time 4:30pm - 5:30pm @ Skyview Golf Course. (Bring your wedges and putters to win prizes on the putting green!)Th 8-22:&nbsp;Volleyball jamboree at Gering 5:00 pmF 8-23: Big Blue Barbeque 6:30 pm at Bulldog StadiumF 8-23:&nbsp;Football exhibition 7:00 pmF 8-23:&nbsp;Softball triangular at Holdrege&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;4:30 pm CT/3:30pm MT Holdrege vs Hershey&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6:00 pm CT/5:00pm MT Alliance vs Hershey&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;7:30pm CT/6:00pm MT Alliance vs HoldregeSat 8-24:&nbsp;Big Blue 5K @ 8:00 amSat 8-24:&nbsp;Softball at Lexington Invite 9:00 am CT/8:00am MT<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724077358262.jpeg" alt="Alliance Booster Club Graphic" />
 <figcaption>Alliance Booster Club Graphic</figcaption>
 </figure>

Alliance High School Athletic Calendar: Week of August 19th

Chadron State College is experiencing a unique turn of events this season. One of their football coaches from last year has transitioned to a player role this year. This unusual situation is not only a testament to the coach's dedication but also a potential game-changer for the Eagles this fall.

A year ago, Nick Gossage, a native of Colorado Springs, was a graduate assistant helping Head Coach Jay Long tutor the offensive line.  Now, he's seeking playing time alongside players he coached last season.

Gossage, a 24-year-old standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 320 pounds, didn't let his injuries define his future. He thought his playing days were over at the end of the 2021 season at Fort Hays State in Kansas,  where he'd started at right guard all season but played with a painful left shoulder that he knew needed surgery when the schedule ended.  He'd had the same surgery in 2019 when he was a redshift freshman and played in about half of the Tigers' games when they won their second straight conference championship.

Because of COVID-19, the Fort Hays football team didn't play any games in 2000, even though it practiced most of the fall. Gossage's participation was cut short when he broke a bone in his right foot during workouts. However, he recovered to participate in spring drills and earned a starting job for the '21 season.

But, because of his second shoulder injury and surgery at the end of that season, he decided his college football career was over.  

"I was mentally done playing," Gossage recalls.  "I still loved football, but the injuries had taken their toll. I was still recovering from my surgery when spring practice occurred in 2022, so I missed that season and graduated in December."

He earned a bachelor's degree in social science, emphasizing secondary education, with the intention to teach and coach.  He moved home during Christmas vacation.  By then, his father, Erick Gossage, who had taught K-5 physical education for 30 years, had become the head football coach at Liberty High in Colorado Springs where Nick had attended and earned two-time all-conference and all-area player honors and a team captain for two years.

Nick sometimes hung around the school that spring, helping his dad and, by chance, was there when Chadron State Offensive Coordinator Micah Smith stopped to see if Liberty had any college prospects he could recruit.   

"I met Coach Smith and told him I was looking for a chance to earn a master's degree and help coach college football. I told him to tell me if something opened up," Gossage recalls.  "Early that summer, he called me and told me Chadron State was looking for someone to be an assistant offensive line coach.  I jumped at that opportunity, arrived in Chadron in July (2023), and helped Coach Long last season."

Since earning a master's degree takes two years, Gossage also helped with spring football last April.  While chatting with Coach Long, he mentioned that he probably had another semester of football eligibility since he had redshirted as a true freshman in 2018 and Fort Hays had not played in 2020.  The supposition proved to be true. He was NCAA eligibile and cleared to play this fall, returned home after the CSC school year ended in May, and began working out to get back into playing shape.

"After school was out at Liberty, Dad had his football players running and lifting four days a week, and I joined them," Gossage said.  "I worked hard.  I knew I needed to get back into serious shape and be ready to play.  In July, I returned to Chadron to work with the players who had stayed here for the summer. I was a little nervous about how I'd be received by the guys I had coached last year when I told them I was going to play again," Gossage noted. "But that only lasted about one day. Sometimes, they still call me 'coach.'  We've gotten along great."

When the first week of practice ended last Saturday, Gossage said there are no guarantees that he'll be among the starting linemen or even get to play much, but he's trying to do his best to contribute.

"There's a lot of competition up front this year. Competition breeds championships. I saw it happen at Fort Hays," he said. "Coach Long has brought in some good transfers, and we have five or six other seniors besides me on the O-line roster. We'll have a unique line and an exceptional team this fall. We've got the right kind of zip at quarterback now and good competition at every position. It should be a fun year. I'm competing to start, but if that doesn't happen, I'll try to help those ahead of me succeed. I've had a lot of experience and might be able to give them some tips," Gossage continued.  "I want this team to win."   

Here's a footnote to the story:  Nick has a famous relative from Colorado Springs who still lives there.  He's Richard "Goose" Gossage, one of major league baseball's first and all-time outstanding closers, primarily with the New York Yankees and San Diego Padres in the late 1970s and much of the '80s.   Altogether, Goose pitched 22 years in the majors, struck out 1,502 batters, was an All-Star Game selection eight times, and was inducted into Baseball's Hall of Fame in 2008.

Nick said Goose is a third cousin, but the family is close, and Goose and his wife, Corna, often attend family birthday parties and graduations.  

"It's nice to be related to someone famous," Nick noted. "That's how some people remember my last name."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723645264333.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: Con Marshall CSC AthleticsChadron State College is experiencing a unique turn of events this season. One of their football coaches from last year has transitioned to a player role this year. This unusual situation is not only a testament to the coach's dedication but also a potential game-changer for the Eagles this fall.A year ago, Nick Gossage, a native of Colorado Springs, was a graduate assistant helping Head Coach Jay Long tutor the offensive line. Now, he's seeking playing time alongside players he coached last season.Gossage, a 24-year-old standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 320 pounds, didn't let his injuries define his future. He thought his playing days were over at the end of the 2021 season at Fort Hays State in Kansas, where he'd started at right guard all season but played with a painful left shoulder that he knew needed surgery when the schedule ended. He'd had the same surgery in 2019 when he was a redshift freshman and played in about half of the Tigers' games when they won their second straight conference championship.Because of COVID-19, the Fort Hays football team didn't play any games in 2000, even though it practiced most of the fall. Gossage's participation was cut short when he broke a bone in his right foot during workouts. However, he recovered to participate in spring drills and earned a starting job for the '21 season.But, because of his second shoulder injury and surgery at the end of that season, he decided his college football career was over. "I was mentally done playing," Gossage recalls. "I still loved football, but the injuries had taken their toll. I was still recovering from my surgery when spring practice occurred in 2022, so I missed that season and graduated in December."He earned a bachelor's degree in social science, emphasizing secondary education, with the intention to teach and coach. He moved home during Christmas vacation. By then, his father, Erick Gossage, who had taught K-5 physical education for 30 years, had become the head football coach at Liberty High in Colorado Springs where Nick had attended and earned two-time all-conference and all-area player honors and a team captain for two years.Nick sometimes hung around the school that spring, helping his dad and, by chance, was there when Chadron State Offensive Coordinator Micah Smith stopped to see if Liberty had any college prospects he could recruit. "I met Coach Smith and told him I was looking for a chance to earn a master's degree and help coach college football. I told him to tell me if something opened up," Gossage recalls. "Early that summer, he called me and told me Chadron State was looking for someone to be an assistant offensive line coach. I jumped at that opportunity, arrived in Chadron in July (2023), and helped Coach Long last season."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723647297644.jpeg" alt="Gossage hitting the weight room" />
 <figcaption>Gossage hitting the weight room</figcaption>
 </figure>Since earning a master's degree takes two years, Gossage also helped with spring football last April. While chatting with Coach Long, he mentioned that he probably had another semester of football eligibility since he had redshirted as a true freshman in 2018 and Fort Hays had not played in 2020. The supposition proved to be true. He was NCAA eligibile and cleared to play this fall, returned home after the CSC school year ended in May, and began working out to get back into playing shape."After school was out at Liberty, Dad had his football players running and lifting four days a week, and I joined them," Gossage said. "I worked hard. I knew I needed to get back into serious shape and be ready to play. In July, I returned to Chadron to work with the players who had stayed here for the summer. I was a little nervous about how I'd be received by the guys I had coached last year when I told them I was going to play again," Gossage noted. "But that only lasted about one day. Sometimes, they still call me 'coach.' We've gotten along great."When the first week of practice ended last Saturday, Gossage said there are no guarantees that he'll be among the starting linemen or even get to play much, but he's trying to do his best to contribute."There's a lot of competition up front this year. Competition breeds championships. I saw it happen at Fort Hays," he said. "Coach Long has brought in some good transfers, and we have five or six other seniors besides me on the O-line roster. We'll have a unique line and an exceptional team this fall. We've got the right kind of zip at quarterback now and good competition at every position. It should be a fun year. I'm competing to start, but if that doesn't happen, I'll try to help those ahead of me succeed. I've had a lot of experience and might be able to give them some tips," Gossage continued. "I want this team to win." Here's a footnote to the story: Nick has a famous relative from Colorado Springs who still lives there. He's Richard "Goose" Gossage, one of major league baseball's first and all-time outstanding closers, primarily with the New York Yankees and San Diego Padres in the late 1970s and much of the '80s. Altogether, Goose pitched 22 years in the majors, struck out 1,502 batters, was an All-Star Game selection eight times, and was inducted into Baseball's Hall of Fame in 2008.Nick said Goose is a third cousin, but the family is close, and Goose and his wife, Corna, often attend family birthday parties and graduations. "It's nice to be related to someone famous," Nick noted. "That's how some people remember my last name."

CSC coach trades whistle for another season in pads on the field

Chadron State is 15 days away from kickoff of the season opener and continues to work in fall camp.&nbsp; The Eagles donned full pads Tuesday morning under comfortable temperatures and light band of clouds.&nbsp; I checked in with senior cornerback Deonte Jackson.

The San Diego, California native got in six games last season and picked off a pass.&nbsp; He should be in the mix for significant playing time this fall as the Eagles re-stock the secondary.&nbsp; Transfers Omar Ali and Tasean Young are two newcomers with strong talent and veteran experience that will help bolster the Eagles pass coverage.

Jackson talks about the summer work the team put in to improve heading into fall camp.

I asked Jackson how hungry the team is to get this season started after last year's 5-6 finish.

CSC will hold practices all week and be back in full pads at Elliott Field on Saturday.&nbsp; Practices are open to the public if fans want to catch an early glimpse of this year's team.

CSC fall camp coverage is sponsored by Great Plains Communications.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723645264333.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: Dave Collins Sports Director X: @DMCbroadcastingChadron State is 15 days away from kickoff of the season opener and continues to work in fall camp.&nbsp; The Eagles donned full pads Tuesday morning under comfortable temperatures and light band of clouds.&nbsp; I checked in with senior cornerback Deonte Jackson.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1897112958&color=%23601030&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/deonte-jackson" title="Deonte Jackson - CSC CB Cut #1" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Deonte Jackson - CSC CB Cut #1</a></div></div>The San Diego, California native got in six games last season and picked off a pass.&nbsp; He should be in the mix for significant playing time this fall as the Eagles re-stock the secondary.&nbsp; Transfers Omar Ali and Tasean Young are two newcomers with strong talent and veteran experience that will help bolster the Eagles pass coverage.Jackson talks about the summer work the team put in to improve heading into fall camp.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1897114314&color=%23601030&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/deonte-jackson-csc-cb-cut-2" title="Deonte Jackson - CSC CB Cut #2" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Deonte Jackson - CSC CB Cut #2</a></div></div>I asked Jackson how hungry the team is to get this season started after last year's 5-6 finish.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1897116219&color=%23601030&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/my-recording-1" title="Deonte Jackson - CSC CB Cut #3" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Deonte Jackson - CSC CB Cut #3</a></div></div>CSC will hold practices all week and be back in full pads at Elliott Field on Saturday.&nbsp; Practices are open to the public if fans want to catch an early glimpse of this year's team. CSC fall camp coverage is sponsored by Great Plains Communications.

🔊 Returning corner Deonte Jackson joins veteran transfers to bolster Eagle pass defense

Courtesy:&nbsp;Berlyn Clear,&nbsp;AHS Girls Golf Coach

Alliance, Neb. - Darin Boysen, Executive&nbsp;Director of the Nebraska Coaches Association presents AHS Girls Golf Coach Berlyn Clear with the 2023-24 Girls Golf Team Academic Excellence Award in Recognition of Outstanding Academic Performance in the 2023-24 School year. The award was presented to AHS Head Golf Coach Berlyn Clear at the Nebraska Coaches Association Clinic in Lincoln in July 2024.&nbsp; 

Coach Clear says the team maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.73 to earn this award.&nbsp; "I am very proud of the team both on and off the course.&nbsp; It isn't easy being a student-athlete -- juggling practice,&nbsp;tournaments, and schoolwork.&nbsp; This award shows our team's dedication to academics."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alliance was one of six Class B Girls Golf teams to receive this award this year.&nbsp; Members of the AHS Girls Golf team in 2023 receiving this award were Emily McCune, Kayel Lambert, Katelyn Heisler, Ryley Norris and Harper Setter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723572296538.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy:&nbsp;Berlyn Clear,&nbsp;AHS Girls Golf Coach Alliance, Neb. - Darin Boysen, Executive&nbsp;Director of the Nebraska Coaches Association presents AHS Girls Golf Coach Berlyn Clear with the 2023-24 Girls Golf Team Academic Excellence Award in Recognition of Outstanding Academic Performance in the 2023-24 School year. The award was presented to AHS Head Golf Coach Berlyn Clear at the Nebraska Coaches Association Clinic in Lincoln in July 2024.&nbsp; Coach Clear says the team maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.73 to earn this award.&nbsp; "I am very proud of the team both on and off the course.&nbsp; It isn't easy being a student-athlete -- juggling practice,&nbsp;tournaments, and schoolwork.&nbsp; This award shows our team's dedication to academics."&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723572433557.jpeg" alt="Alliance High School Girls Golf (Courtesy)" />
 <figcaption>Alliance High School Girls Golf (Courtesy)</figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance was one of six Class B Girls Golf teams to receive this award this year.&nbsp; Members of the AHS Girls Golf team in 2023 receiving this award were Emily McCune, Kayel Lambert, Katelyn Heisler, Ryley Norris and Harper Setter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723572466604.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy)</figcaption>
 </figure>

AHS Girls Golf presented with Academic Excellence Award 

By: Con Marshall CSC Sports Information

&nbsp;The first week of practice was a good one for the Chadron State College football team, Head Coach Jay Long said Saturday after the Eagles had what he called a “situational scrimmage” that lasted about an hour and 15 minutes.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; With four quarterbacks seeing action, each offensive unit took turns running six plays at a time.&nbsp; Long said the defense often had the upper hand when the top unit on both offense and defense collided, but when the second and third units matched up, he said the offenses held their own.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “That was our sixth practice and I think we’re ahead of schedule,” Long said. “We’ve got good competition for playing time at most of the positions. That means we’ll have good depth.”&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There will be 17 more practices beginning Monday before the Eagles open their season by hosting Nebraska-Kearney at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Long predicted that the Eagles’ defensive line, which includes Hunter O’Conner and Tanner True, both First-Team All-Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference choices last fall, will make it difficult for the opponents to run the ball this fall.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The coach was particularly pleased that there were no injuries during Saturday’s scrimmage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722893488889.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: Con Marshall CSC Sports Information&nbsp;The first week of practice was a good one for the Chadron State College football team, Head Coach Jay Long said Saturday after the Eagles had what he called a “situational scrimmage” that lasted about an hour and 15 minutes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; With four quarterbacks seeing action, each offensive unit took turns running six plays at a time.&nbsp; Long said the defense often had the upper hand when the top unit on both offense and defense collided, but when the second and third units matched up, he said the offenses held their own.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “That was our sixth practice and I think we’re ahead of schedule,” Long said. “We’ve got good competition for playing time at most of the positions. That means we’ll have good depth.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; There will be 17 more practices beginning Monday before the Eagles open their season by hosting Nebraska-Kearney at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Long predicted that the Eagles’ defensive line, which includes Hunter O’Conner and Tanner True, both First-Team All-Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference choices last fall, will make it difficult for the opponents to run the ball this fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The coach was particularly pleased that there were no injuries during Saturday’s scrimmage.

Week 1 in the books for CSC at fall camp, coaches pleased with progress

By&nbsp;Kendall Grayson/Tri City Storm

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

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

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

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

Tri Cities' Matt Zaba named Goalie Coach for Colorado Eagles

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big Ten Network Announces 2024 Volleyball TV Schedule

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Courtesy: Troy Unzicker, APS Superintendent

The Activities Hall of Fame is organized as a way of maintaining the rich heritage and tradition of the successful activity programs at Alliance High School. The Hall of Fame will serve as a means of recognizing, preserving, and honoring the athletes, performers, coaches, sponsors, directors, contributors and alumni who made significant contributions to activity programs. The Activities Hall of Fame will help maintain the spirit, pride, and sense of community, as well as serving as a historical account of the great activity traditions of Alliance High School.

The selection committee meets once a year to vote on new members. In order for nominee to be inducted, the nominee must receive at least a 75% majority vote from the selection committee members in attendance.

On July 29th the selection committee met and reviewed 41 outstanding applications. The list currently contains 21 state champions or 1st team all-state athletes. 29 different nominations received at least one vote from committee members. The new nominations this year made the process extremely difficult for the committee. Finally, seven athletes, one performer and two coaches were settled on to represent the Class of 23 and Class of 24.

Inductees will be honored during Homecoming week. The induction ceremony is scheduled for October 26th.

Rocky Almond (Coach)- Rocky served Alliance 26 years as a coach and activities director. He coached in five state tournaments including the 2001 Boy’s State Championship basketball team. He was the Omaha World Herald boy’s coach of the year. Rocky coached 4 different all-star teams in his tenure. He was also the District V AD of the year in 2015. Rocky has also been named the Alliance Times Herald Person of the Year during his time in Alliance.

Don Coupens Class of 1949 (Athlete)- In the 1948 State Track Meet, Don won three medals as the team won the first track state title in school history. He was second in the long jump and pole vault and was fifth in the high jump. In 1949, Don would win the gold medal in Class A pole vault with a school record and meet record jump of 12 feet 8 ½ inches.

Amy Harris Class of 2010 (Performer)- Amy was an vital part of the 2009 State Champion Team. Amy was named the Outstanding Performer.

John “Tony” Magdeleno Class of 1982 (Athlete)- John was a three sport athlete in high school. He was a starter and letterman in football and a basketball letterman. He was a standout in track and field. John was an individual state champion in the mile as well as an overall gold medalist as part of the 3200-meter relay team.

Shirley Schlenker (Coach)- Shirley served in the Alliance school district for 34 years. Shirley spent 26 years coaching volleyball at the 8th and 9th grade levels. She served 11 years as a track coach including a stint in the head position. She served 16 years as the head girl’s tennis coach and 1 year as the head boy’s tennis coach. Shirley was Alliance’s first head softball coach for 4 years and then continued 3 more years as the assistant.

Bruce Brost Class of 1955 (Athlete)- Bruce was part of the 1955 State Champion track squad. He won the gold medal in the Class A mile with a time of 4:38.1.

Martie Burke Class of 2007 (Athlete)- Martie was an exceptional athlete at Alliance High School. She graduated with a total of three Class B State Championships, numerous All Conference awards, six academic all-state awards, and eleven varsity letters. She was a starting guard on the 2007 Class B State Champion girls’ basketball team. Martie was the 2004 and 2006 Class B State Doubles Tennis champions with different partners.

Melanie Caroselli Class of 2001 (Athlete)- Melanie was a multi-sport athlete. She holds the school record in the triple jump and has the distinction of being the only girl to have started every varsity game in her 4-year career.

Justin Dietrich Class of 1999 (Athlete)- Justin was a three year starter in football at running back, defensive back and punter. He was an all-state football athlete at defensive back for Alliance. He played in the 1999 Shrine Bowl. He was also a multi-year starter in basketball. He was a premier triple jumper, placing 3rd in the state meet jumping over 46 feet. Justin excelled in baseball for the American Legion program.

Bob Miller Class of 1955 (Athlete)- Bob was part of the 1955 track state championship team. He was the school record holder in the low hurdles placing 2nd at the state meet with first place going to a teammate. He was also part of the gold medal 880 relay team at the state meet. Bob served as co-captain of this outstanding team.

I am still attempting to contact family members of Bob Miller, Bruce Brost and Don Coupens. Any information can be sent to troy.unzicker@alliancebulldogs.org.

Courtesy: Troy Unzicker, APS SuperintendentThe Activities Hall of Fame is organized as a way of maintaining the rich heritage and tradition of the successful activity programs at Alliance High School. The Hall of Fame will serve as a means of recognizing, preserving, and honoring the athletes, performers, coaches, sponsors, directors, contributors and alumni who made significant contributions to activity programs. The Activities Hall of Fame will help maintain the spirit, pride, and sense of community, as well as serving as a historical account of the great activity traditions of Alliance High School.The selection committee meets once a year to vote on new members. In order for nominee to be inducted, the nominee must receive at least a 75% majority vote from the selection committee members in attendance.On July 29th the selection committee met and reviewed 41 outstanding applications. The list currently contains 21 state champions or 1st team all-state athletes. 29 different nominations received at least one vote from committee members. The new nominations this year made the process extremely difficult for the committee. Finally, seven athletes, one performer and two coaches were settled on to represent the Class of 23 and Class of 24.Inductees will be honored during Homecoming week. The induction ceremony is scheduled for October 26th.Class of 2023Rocky Almond (Coach)- Rocky served Alliance 26 years as a coach and activities director. He coached in five state tournaments including the 2001 Boy’s State Championship basketball team. He was the Omaha World Herald boy’s coach of the year. Rocky coached 4 different all-star teams in his tenure. He was also the District V AD of the year in 2015. Rocky has also been named the Alliance Times Herald Person of the Year during his time in Alliance.Don Coupens Class of 1949 (Athlete)- In the 1948 State Track Meet, Don won three medals as the team won the first track state title in school history. He was second in the long jump and pole vault and was fifth in the high jump. In 1949, Don would win the gold medal in Class A pole vault with a school record and meet record jump of 12 feet 8 ½ inches.Amy Harris Class of 2010 (Performer)- Amy was an vital part of the 2009 State Champion Team. Amy was named the Outstanding Performer.John “Tony” Magdeleno Class of 1982 (Athlete)- John was a three sport athlete in high school. He was a starter and letterman in football and a basketball letterman. He was a standout in track and field. John was an individual state champion in the mile as well as an overall gold medalist as part of the 3200-meter relay team.Shirley Schlenker (Coach)- Shirley served in the Alliance school district for 34 years. Shirley spent 26 years coaching volleyball at the 8th and 9th grade levels. She served 11 years as a track coach including a stint in the head position. She served 16 years as the head girl’s tennis coach and 1 year as the head boy’s tennis coach. Shirley was Alliance’s first head softball coach for 4 years and then continued 3 more years as the assistant.Class of 2024Bruce Brost Class of 1955 (Athlete)- Bruce was part of the 1955 State Champion track squad. He won the gold medal in the Class A mile with a time of 4:38.1.Martie Burke Class of 2007 (Athlete)- Martie was an exceptional athlete at Alliance High School. She graduated with a total of three Class B State Championships, numerous All Conference awards, six academic all-state awards, and eleven varsity letters. She was a starting guard on the 2007 Class B State Champion girls’ basketball team. Martie was the 2004 and 2006 Class B State Doubles Tennis champions with different partners.Melanie Caroselli Class of 2001 (Athlete)- Melanie was a multi-sport athlete. She holds the school record in the triple jump and has the distinction of being the only girl to have started every varsity game in her 4-year career.Justin Dietrich Class of 1999 (Athlete)- Justin was a three year starter in football at running back, defensive back and punter. He was an all-state football athlete at defensive back for Alliance. He played in the 1999 Shrine Bowl. He was also a multi-year starter in basketball. He was a premier triple jumper, placing 3rd in the state meet jumping over 46 feet. Justin excelled in baseball for the American Legion program.Bob Miller Class of 1955 (Athlete)- Bob was part of the 1955 track state championship team. He was the school record holder in the low hurdles placing 2nd at the state meet with first place going to a teammate. He was also part of the gold medal 880 relay team at the state meet. Bob served as co-captain of this outstanding team.I am still attempting to contact family members of Bob Miller, Bruce Brost and Don Coupens. Any information can be sent to troy.unzicker@alliancebulldogs.org.

Alliance High School announces Activities HOF classes for 2023-24

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Colorado School of Mines claims the top spot in the 2024 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Football Preseason Coaches’ Poll, the league announced Wednesday. The RMAC Football preseason poll is voted on by the league’s 10 head coaches. Head coaches are not permitted to vote for their own program.

Colorado School of Mines leads the way in the 2024 preseason poll with seven first-place votes and 79 total points after a dominant 2023 campaign that saw the Orediggers return to the NCAA Division II Championship Game. Head coach Pete Sterbick enters his second year at the helm of the Orediggers program, which recorded a 14-1 overall record in his first year.

Western Colorado checks in at No. 2 in the RMAC Football Preseason Poll with 74 points and three first-place votes. The Mountaineers are coming off an incredibly successful season in which they finished with a 10-2 overall record and earned a berth to the 2024 NCAA DII Football Championship. Behind coach Jas Bains, the Mountaineers are poised to make another run at the RMAC conference title.

Colorado State University Pueblo rounds out the top three programs in the league’s preseason poll with 66 points. The ThunderWolves are also led by a second-year head coach, Philip Vigil. Under Vigil, CSU Pueblo went 8-3 overall in 2023 and finished the season with the third-best record in the conference. With a year under his belt, Vigil aims to lead the ThunderWolves to even more success in the 2024 season.

Colorado Mesa holds fourth place in the preseason poll after tallying 50 points, while Black Hills State falls closely behind in fifth place with 49 points. South Dakota Mines garners 42 points, placing them sixth overall in the 2024 RMAC preseason poll.

Chadron State occupies seventh place with 39 points, followed by Adams State with 21 points. New Mexico Highlands (18 points) and Fort Lewis (12 points) close out the 2024 RMAC Football Preseason Poll.

The 2024 RMAC Football season kicks off on Thursday, Aug. 29, with five programs in competition. Fort Lewis will see their first action of the 2024 season on Saturday, Aug. 31, when they host William Jewell College in Durango, Colo. Colorado School of Mines will start its season on Thursday, Sept. 5, against West Texas A&amp;M, while Black Hills State, Adams State and Western Colorado all kickoff on Saturday, Sept. 7.

Each game hosted by an RMAC institution will be broadcast on the RMAC Network throughout the 2024 campaign.

By: Rocky Mountain Athletic ConferenceCOLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Colorado School of Mines claims the top spot in the 2024 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Football Preseason Coaches’ Poll, the league announced Wednesday. The RMAC Football preseason poll is voted on by the league’s 10 head coaches. Head coaches are not permitted to vote for their own program.Colorado School of Mines leads the way in the 2024 preseason poll with seven first-place votes and 79 total points after a dominant 2023 campaign that saw the Orediggers return to the NCAA Division II Championship Game. Head coach Pete Sterbick enters his second year at the helm of the Orediggers program, which recorded a 14-1 overall record in his first year.Western Colorado checks in at No. 2 in the RMAC Football Preseason Poll with 74 points and three first-place votes. The Mountaineers are coming off an incredibly successful season in which they finished with a 10-2 overall record and earned a berth to the 2024 NCAA DII Football Championship. Behind coach Jas Bains, the Mountaineers are poised to make another run at the RMAC conference title.Colorado State University Pueblo rounds out the top three programs in the league’s preseason poll with 66 points. The ThunderWolves are also led by a second-year head coach, Philip Vigil. Under Vigil, CSU Pueblo went 8-3 overall in 2023 and finished the season with the third-best record in the conference. With a year under his belt, Vigil aims to lead the ThunderWolves to even more success in the 2024 season.Colorado Mesa holds fourth place in the preseason poll after tallying 50 points, while Black Hills State falls closely behind in fifth place with 49 points. South Dakota Mines garners 42 points, placing them sixth overall in the 2024 RMAC preseason poll.Chadron State occupies seventh place with 39 points, followed by Adams State with 21 points. New Mexico Highlands (18 points) and Fort Lewis (12 points) close out the 2024 RMAC Football Preseason Poll.The 2024 RMAC Football season kicks off on Thursday, Aug. 29, with five programs in competition. Fort Lewis will see their first action of the 2024 season on Saturday, Aug. 31, when they host William Jewell College in Durango, Colo. Colorado School of Mines will start its season on Thursday, Sept. 5, against West Texas A&amp;M, while Black Hills State, Adams State and Western Colorado all kickoff on Saturday, Sept. 7.Each game hosted by an RMAC institution will be broadcast on the RMAC Network throughout the 2024 campaign.<h2>2024 RMAC Football Preseason Poll</h2>School (First-place votes)	Points1. Colorado School of Mines (7)	792. Western Colorado (3)	743. CSU Pueblo	664. Colorado Mesa	505. Black Hills State	496. South Dakota Mines	427. Chadron State	398. Adams State	219. New Mexico Highlands	1810. Fort Lewis	12

🏈 Chadron State picked #7 in RMAC pre-season coaches' poll

From Michael Baker, Activities Director Alliance High School

Any Alliance High School athlete&nbsp;intending on participating in a fall sport will need to attend a mandatory fall sports meeting with a parent on Monday, August 5th.&nbsp; 

Activities Director Michael Baker will speak to all the teams in a large group meeting at 7:00 pm in the PAC.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After the large group meeting is over, each fall sport coach will have a brief team meeting at various&nbsp;locations in the high school.

Athletes&nbsp;who are unable to attend&nbsp;will need to contact Activities Director Michael Baker about an alternative meeting date.

From Michael Baker, Activities Director Alliance High SchoolAny Alliance High School athlete&nbsp;intending on participating in a fall sport will need to attend a mandatory fall sports meeting with a parent on Monday, August 5th.&nbsp; Activities Director Michael Baker will speak to all the teams in a large group meeting at 7:00 pm in the PAC.&nbsp;&nbsp;After the large group meeting is over, each fall sport coach will have a brief team meeting at various&nbsp;locations in the high school.Athletes&nbsp;who are unable to attend&nbsp;will need to contact Activities Director Michael Baker about an alternative meeting date.

Mandatory Fall Sports Meeting for Alliance High School Athletes

B7 Senior Legion Baseball District Tournament Gering, NE

Sunday, July 28 - Elimination Games 3:00 - Elimination Game - Gering vs Auburn - Auburn 9-2 6:00 - Elimination Game - Ogallala vs Chadron - Ogallala 9-1

Check back for score updates and bracket advancements as the tournament moves along.

Saturday, July 27 - Second Round &amp; Elimination 1:00 - Elimination Game - Sidney vs Ogallala - Ogallala 3-2 (Sidney Eliminated) 4:00 - Quarterfinals - Alliance vs Auburn - Alliance 15-10 7:00 - Quarterfinals - Gering vs Chadron - Chadron 3-2&nbsp;&nbsp;

Friday, July 26 - Opening Round 1:00 - #3 Chadron vs #4 Alliance - Alliance 8-4 4:00 - #2 Ogallala vs #5 Auburn - Auburn 8-1 7:00 - #1 Gering vs #6 Sidney - Gering 12-4&nbsp;&nbsp; Records Through Sunday: Alliance 2-0 Chadron 1-2 - OUT Auburn 2-1 Ogallala 2-1 Gering 1-2 - OUT Sidney 0-2 - OUT

B7 Senior Legion Baseball District Tournament Gering, NESunday, July 28 - Elimination Games 3:00 - Elimination Game - Gering vs Auburn - Auburn 9-2 6:00 - Elimination Game - Ogallala vs Chadron - Ogallala 9-1Check back for score updates and bracket advancements as the tournament moves along.Saturday, July 27 - Second Round &amp; Elimination 1:00 - Elimination Game - Sidney vs Ogallala - Ogallala 3-2 (Sidney Eliminated) 4:00 - Quarterfinals - Alliance vs Auburn - Alliance 15-10 7:00 - Quarterfinals - Gering vs Chadron - Chadron 3-2&nbsp;&nbsp;Friday, July 26 - Opening Round 1:00 - #3 Chadron vs #4 Alliance - Alliance 8-4 4:00 - #2 Ogallala vs #5 Auburn - Auburn 8-1 7:00 - #1 Gering vs #6 Sidney - Gering 12-4&nbsp;&nbsp; Records Through Sunday: Alliance 2-0 Chadron 1-2 - OUT Auburn 2-1 Ogallala 2-1 Gering 1-2 - OUT Sidney 0-2 - OUT

⚾ UPDATE: Top-Seed Gering Bounced on Elimination Sunday at B7 District Tournament

Lincoln, Neb. — The 2024 Cornhusker State Games concluded Sunday, with 27 sports across venues in Lincoln, Omaha, Weeping Water, Raymond, and other locations.

Overall, the Cornhusker State Games attracted&nbsp;8,157&nbsp;participants in 70 sports compared to 8,127 in 2023. Shooting sports brought in the most participants with 633. Track and Field drew 617, while Volleyball hosted 507 athletes. Ice Hockey and Basketball followed with 458 each.&nbsp;

In Youth Golf, Anna Midyett from Bennington secured gold in Girls 11 and under stroke play and, alongside Perrey Hernon from Elkhorn, won the 9-11 division 2-person scramble. This followed her recent gold in the Girls 11-12 division at the Youth Golf State Championships from last weekend in Columbus, further highlighting her achievements as last year's CSG Youth Female Athlete of the Year.

In Cornhole, Jerry Hill and Greg Mazankowski, both from Kearney, took home gold medals in the competitive doubles and senior doubles categories.

Joseph Dustin from Lincoln secured the title of 5K Road Race champion with a finish time of 16:30. Hana Takahashi of Blair earned the title of overall female winner, crossing the line in 22:30.

Diego Serkel of Lincoln had a standout performance in Karate, winning gold in KATA adult brown belt, KUMITE men brown/red belt, and KATA adult brown/red belt. Maria Snyder, also from Lincoln, matched this success by taking gold in KATA adult black belt, KUMITE women black belt, and KATA adult black belt 3rd degree.&nbsp;

Powerlifting saw Marsha Busse from Lincoln dominate, winning four gold medals in women's raw master (40+), women's raw master (40+) - 100 kg, women's raw open - 100 kg, and women's raw master (40+) bench only. She also earned a bronze in women's raw open bench only (all). Busse was also the 2021 Senior Female Athlete of the Year.

In Racquetball, Roscoe (Ross) Halsey from Olathe, KS, claimed gold in men's A singles and men's doubles with partner Ron Bacon from Lincoln, who also secured a silver in men's A singles.

Alexander Atkinson from Council Bluffs, IA, excelled in the .22 Prone Shooting event, capturing gold medals in both the open sub junior and match sub junior categories.

In Adult Trap shooting, Aemal Khattak from Lincoln won gold in the 16-yard senior and HOA senior categories and took silver in the handicap senior division. Braeden Cooper from Waverly also had a notable performance, winning gold in the HOA open and handicap open events, and a bronze in ATA class B in Adult Trap. He also received a gold in the 12 gauge junior division (18U) in Adult Skeet.

Josalin Stock from Lincoln shined in Tennis, securing gold in the G16 singles, G16 doubles with Pearl Stempson (Lincoln), and women's open doubles with Stacia Jacobsen (Lincoln).

For a complete list of results, visit the CSG&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qn0ZrYafFTGTZ0uC5v2zkbD6hsEvwUXYQyCmMZHRBAsHIR_OalToLjFQGhLLuFZLHe5tfTeps5YygDrhu-6GZY_f50RTIsi_dND6QMVpw_tjplsXmVYjb_QamdTWCKcMY2uVQ7l2Oy5HPauV8luiWCQcO8SR-HKh3rq3FCLrYlnvoXP_wMysIQGVpolptGq2&amp;c=R5MXqdb9_OM4uP8el4Ke7jbugmHVdoaNnuRRAbGSCs_FjXygrTV15w==&amp;ch=43munseePKU-Z8zB2EgS66TRn5Gnq42SSp6FU7Lz0-ZHaZfvRjEUqg==" target="_blank">RESULTS</a>&nbsp;page.&nbsp;Those interested can still purchase CSG merchandise for a limited time&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qn0ZrYafFTGTZ0uC5v2zkbD6hsEvwUXYQyCmMZHRBAsHIR_OalToLhHpTnnDYLgRlza7R3BcNJn5JNEvulErDXL5DQjZijgSE5QptRnfHqkki3_gZrISS5ZOs9_plFGZ_tH6kWWsDhmLAoYYXihsHvo40mdHF1-pYyj1iHJJwGQxGSmZ9kRZ3QM7s4gOi-GP5escHK7_5RXVCjWU6vZZL3kQkI1VMwSlER8rcXcBrZeHbctAWDRdjg0SguOMSMEYOFY8jl0emmKi2Rbh_7cXIKwW9YFmuyCAHOuiYBY8NzTko8vwUPvHVQiKi5XS-u6J9a2SSEprs3Nz0OVZtq15j8YEATZWzQSL&amp;c=R5MXqdb9_OM4uP8el4Ke7jbugmHVdoaNnuRRAbGSCs_FjXygrTV15w==&amp;ch=43munseePKU-Z8zB2EgS66TRn5Gnq42SSp6FU7Lz0-ZHaZfvRjEUqg==" target="_blank">HERE</a>.&nbsp;Photos of most CSG events can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qn0ZrYafFTGTZ0uC5v2zkbD6hsEvwUXYQyCmMZHRBAsHIR_OalToLr7JYKWTdiNX3fO4vgCTVt3XHifUkBWe8OB-r5dj5mAnHDxoYnKThA3aVNhO1-_UDGQUzflD788VIEqIf07MBgwQhzZ5GGLadG0aq83-djF9Yj78vX5j7C9K9-RL2gAJyg==&amp;c=R5MXqdb9_OM4uP8el4Ke7jbugmHVdoaNnuRRAbGSCs_FjXygrTV15w==&amp;ch=43munseePKU-Z8zB2EgS66TRn5Gnq42SSp6FU7Lz0-ZHaZfvRjEUqg==" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

The Cornhusker State Games is conducted by the Nebraska Sports Council.&nbsp;Platinum partners include the Nebraska Medical Association, Pepsi-Cola of Lincoln, Nebraska Orthopaedic Center and Farmers Mutual of Nebraska.&nbsp;Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qn0ZrYafFTGTZ0uC5v2zkbD6hsEvwUXYQyCmMZHRBAsHIR_OalToLlMubcw9dAEenreFo97xwkzShlhOlXd4j_u1-ibMxw2eufM44ZTr42zXWQVIpLmVEWHjn6hyEA-2PKTizIvxrfDFzVaFFq1Bq3qqbLiIbqYBcA-lhH1bc-4=&amp;c=R5MXqdb9_OM4uP8el4Ke7jbugmHVdoaNnuRRAbGSCs_FjXygrTV15w==&amp;ch=43munseePKU-Z8zB2EgS66TRn5Gnq42SSp6FU7Lz0-ZHaZfvRjEUqg==" target="_blank">NebraskaSportsCouncil.com</a>.

Nebraska Sports CouncilLincoln, Neb. — The 2024 Cornhusker State Games concluded Sunday, with 27 sports across venues in Lincoln, Omaha, Weeping Water, Raymond, and other locations.Overall, the Cornhusker State Games attracted&nbsp;8,157&nbsp;participants in 70 sports compared to 8,127 in 2023. Shooting sports brought in the most participants with 633. Track and Field drew 617, while Volleyball hosted 507 athletes. Ice Hockey and Basketball followed with 458 each.&nbsp;In Youth Golf, Anna Midyett from Bennington secured gold in Girls 11 and under stroke play and, alongside Perrey Hernon from Elkhorn, won the 9-11 division 2-person scramble. This followed her recent gold in the Girls 11-12 division at the Youth Golf State Championships from last weekend in Columbus, further highlighting her achievements as last year's CSG Youth Female Athlete of the Year.In Cornhole, Jerry Hill and Greg Mazankowski, both from Kearney, took home gold medals in the competitive doubles and senior doubles categories.Joseph Dustin from Lincoln secured the title of 5K Road Race champion with a finish time of 16:30. Hana Takahashi of Blair earned the title of overall female winner, crossing the line in 22:30.Diego Serkel of Lincoln had a standout performance in Karate, winning gold in KATA adult brown belt, KUMITE men brown/red belt, and KATA adult brown/red belt. Maria Snyder, also from Lincoln, matched this success by taking gold in KATA adult black belt, KUMITE women black belt, and KATA adult black belt 3rd degree.&nbsp;Powerlifting saw Marsha Busse from Lincoln dominate, winning four gold medals in women's raw master (40+), women's raw master (40+) - 100 kg, women's raw open - 100 kg, and women's raw master (40+) bench only. She also earned a bronze in women's raw open bench only (all). Busse was also the 2021 Senior Female Athlete of the Year.In Racquetball, Roscoe (Ross) Halsey from Olathe, KS, claimed gold in men's A singles and men's doubles with partner Ron Bacon from Lincoln, who also secured a silver in men's A singles.Alexander Atkinson from Council Bluffs, IA, excelled in the .22 Prone Shooting event, capturing gold medals in both the open sub junior and match sub junior categories.In Adult Trap shooting, Aemal Khattak from Lincoln won gold in the 16-yard senior and HOA senior categories and took silver in the handicap senior division. Braeden Cooper from Waverly also had a notable performance, winning gold in the HOA open and handicap open events, and a bronze in ATA class B in Adult Trap. He also received a gold in the 12 gauge junior division (18U) in Adult Skeet.Josalin Stock from Lincoln shined in Tennis, securing gold in the G16 singles, G16 doubles with Pearl Stempson (Lincoln), and women's open doubles with Stacia Jacobsen (Lincoln).For a complete list of results, visit the CSG&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qn0ZrYafFTGTZ0uC5v2zkbD6hsEvwUXYQyCmMZHRBAsHIR_OalToLjFQGhLLuFZLHe5tfTeps5YygDrhu-6GZY_f50RTIsi_dND6QMVpw_tjplsXmVYjb_QamdTWCKcMY2uVQ7l2Oy5HPauV8luiWCQcO8SR-HKh3rq3FCLrYlnvoXP_wMysIQGVpolptGq2&amp;c=R5MXqdb9_OM4uP8el4Ke7jbugmHVdoaNnuRRAbGSCs_FjXygrTV15w==&amp;ch=43munseePKU-Z8zB2EgS66TRn5Gnq42SSp6FU7Lz0-ZHaZfvRjEUqg==" target="_blank">RESULTS</a>&nbsp;page.&nbsp;Those interested can still purchase CSG merchandise for a limited time&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qn0ZrYafFTGTZ0uC5v2zkbD6hsEvwUXYQyCmMZHRBAsHIR_OalToLhHpTnnDYLgRlza7R3BcNJn5JNEvulErDXL5DQjZijgSE5QptRnfHqkki3_gZrISS5ZOs9_plFGZ_tH6kWWsDhmLAoYYXihsHvo40mdHF1-pYyj1iHJJwGQxGSmZ9kRZ3QM7s4gOi-GP5escHK7_5RXVCjWU6vZZL3kQkI1VMwSlER8rcXcBrZeHbctAWDRdjg0SguOMSMEYOFY8jl0emmKi2Rbh_7cXIKwW9YFmuyCAHOuiYBY8NzTko8vwUPvHVQiKi5XS-u6J9a2SSEprs3Nz0OVZtq15j8YEATZWzQSL&amp;c=R5MXqdb9_OM4uP8el4Ke7jbugmHVdoaNnuRRAbGSCs_FjXygrTV15w==&amp;ch=43munseePKU-Z8zB2EgS66TRn5Gnq42SSp6FU7Lz0-ZHaZfvRjEUqg==" target="_blank">HERE</a>.&nbsp;Photos of most CSG events can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qn0ZrYafFTGTZ0uC5v2zkbD6hsEvwUXYQyCmMZHRBAsHIR_OalToLr7JYKWTdiNX3fO4vgCTVt3XHifUkBWe8OB-r5dj5mAnHDxoYnKThA3aVNhO1-_UDGQUzflD788VIEqIf07MBgwQhzZ5GGLadG0aq83-djF9Yj78vX5j7C9K9-RL2gAJyg==&amp;c=R5MXqdb9_OM4uP8el4Ke7jbugmHVdoaNnuRRAbGSCs_FjXygrTV15w==&amp;ch=43munseePKU-Z8zB2EgS66TRn5Gnq42SSp6FU7Lz0-ZHaZfvRjEUqg==" target="_blank">HERE</a>.The Cornhusker State Games is conducted by the Nebraska Sports Council.&nbsp;Platinum partners include the Nebraska Medical Association, Pepsi-Cola of Lincoln, Nebraska Orthopaedic Center and Farmers Mutual of Nebraska.&nbsp;Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://b8oyr9bab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qn0ZrYafFTGTZ0uC5v2zkbD6hsEvwUXYQyCmMZHRBAsHIR_OalToLlMubcw9dAEenreFo97xwkzShlhOlXd4j_u1-ibMxw2eufM44ZTr42zXWQVIpLmVEWHjn6hyEA-2PKTizIvxrfDFzVaFFq1Bq3qqbLiIbqYBcA-lhH1bc-4=&amp;c=R5MXqdb9_OM4uP8el4Ke7jbugmHVdoaNnuRRAbGSCs_FjXygrTV15w==&amp;ch=43munseePKU-Z8zB2EgS66TRn5Gnq42SSp6FU7Lz0-ZHaZfvRjEUqg==" target="_blank">NebraskaSportsCouncil.com</a>.

Final State Games Highlights and Statistic

After running short of players in several games about midseason a year ago when injuries took their toll, Chadron State College women’s basketball coach Travis Brewster has worked hard to make sure that doesn’t happen again in 2024-25.

              Brewster said he’s signed 11 newcomers. He also noted that most, if not all, of the players who were sidelined at various times a year ago have recovered and plan play again this coming season.  There are nine of them, giving the Eagles a 20-player roster.

              “The signees are excited to be coming to Chadron State and we’re excited to have them,” Brewster said.  “I think we’ve got a good group that will help us play with great tenacity and make us a better team.  I’m also sure we’ll have competitive practice and I know we’ll have a lot more depth.”   

              The returnees will include the likes of leading scorer Shay Powers (12.3 ppg), along with fellow seniors Olivia Waufle and Kylie Krise, along with sophomores Megan Counts, Liberty Line and Allison Olsen.  All of them were in the team’s primary rotation and averaged at least seven points a game.     

              Injuries and illness kept some of them from reaching their potential. It was a long season. The final record was just 6-20. The Eagles would have won more games if they’d stayed healthy.

              One thing Brewster looked for was more height.  Much of last season, the Eagles’ tallest player on the court was 5-10.  

              His newcomers in the front court include 6-foot-2 McKenzie Peterson, who shot 54% from the field, averaged 15.2 points and 7 rebounds while earning First-Team All-Conference at Dawson Community College in Montana last season.  Brewster said he is impressed by how well she runs the floor and her team orientation.

              The coach also landed 6-1 Malorie Bryne from Arvada West in Colorado, where she averaged 10 points and was selected to play in the state’s all-star game.  Tyra Ericksson, a native of Sweden, also is 6-1 and has the strength and ability to create mismatches, Brewster said.

              The backcourt recruits include highly-regarded Allison Richards, a 5-6 graduate of the Red Cloud School at Pine Ridge, S.D., and a First-Team All-Region choice both of her seasons at Northeast Community College at Norfolk.

              Last season, Richards averaged 23.9 points, fifth highest in NJCAA II in the nation, despite being the target of what Brewster calls “junk defenses” in nearly every game. She shot 40.3% from 3-point range while nailing 92 of them and was 108-136 from the free throw line for 79.4%.

              “Both her high school and college coaches have nothing but praise for her and I can see why,” Brewster said. 

              Another guard with college experience is 5-6 Jordyn Stokes. She played the past two seasons at Iowa Lakes College at Estherville, where she averaged 10.6 points and was Third-Team All-Region last winter. 

              As Chadron State fans already know, the Eagles’ freshman class will include 5-10 Demi Ferguson, the leading scorer at Chadron High each of the past four years and a 1,000-point career scorer.  As a senior in 2023-24, she averaged 13.9 points and 7.7 rebounds and this week is playing in the Nebraska Coaches Association All-Star Game in Lincoln. 

              Brewster said Ferguson’s “mindset and grit” are impressive. 

              Another incoming freshman who signed early with the Eagles is Ryann Barry of Pierre, S.D.  One of the Riggs High School football coaches contacted Brewster about her the soon after the CSC coach accepted the Chadron State job late last summer.

              It turns out that Barry not only was a basketball standout and a soccer all-stater, she also was the football team’s placekicker and booted 54 extra points last fall. The tipster said “she’s tough and has a big-time motor.” 

              Barry started every game for the Class AA Riggs High basketball team her final three seasons. As a senior, she averaged 11.3 points, 4.6 rebounds. 4.0 assists and 3.1 steals while helping Riggs finish fifth at the state tournament with a 17-7 record.

              Not all of the recruits are mentioned in this article, but Brewster said each of them will have the opportunity to contribute this coming season and in the future.  

              “We went after players who their coaches said have a strong work ethic, are team-oriented, are athletic and are good students,” Brewster noted. “Of course, not all of them will start or probably even play this year.  Some of them will undoubtedly redshirt. But my staff and I are looking forward to working with them and helping them enjoy and benefit from their college experience at Chadron State.”

By: Con MarshallAfter running short of players in several games about midseason a year ago when injuries took their toll, Chadron State College women’s basketball coach Travis Brewster has worked hard to make sure that doesn’t happen again in 2024-25. Brewster said he’s signed 11 newcomers. He also noted that most, if not all, of the players who were sidelined at various times a year ago have recovered and plan play again this coming season. There are nine of them, giving the Eagles a 20-player roster. “The signees are excited to be coming to Chadron State and we’re excited to have them,” Brewster said. “I think we’ve got a good group that will help us play with great tenacity and make us a better team. I’m also sure we’ll have competitive practice and I know we’ll have a lot more depth.” The returnees will include the likes of leading scorer Shay Powers (12.3 ppg), along with fellow seniors Olivia Waufle and Kylie Krise, along with sophomores Megan Counts, Liberty Line and Allison Olsen. All of them were in the team’s primary rotation and averaged at least seven points a game. Injuries and illness kept some of them from reaching their potential. It was a long season. The final record was just 6-20. The Eagles would have won more games if they’d stayed healthy. One thing Brewster looked for was more height. Much of last season, the Eagles’ tallest player on the court was 5-10. His newcomers in the front court include 6-foot-2 McKenzie Peterson, who shot 54% from the field, averaged 15.2 points and 7 rebounds while earning First-Team All-Conference at Dawson Community College in Montana last season. Brewster said he is impressed by how well she runs the floor and her team orientation. The coach also landed 6-1 Malorie Bryne from Arvada West in Colorado, where she averaged 10 points and was selected to play in the state’s all-star game. Tyra Ericksson, a native of Sweden, also is 6-1 and has the strength and ability to create mismatches, Brewster said. The backcourt recruits include highly-regarded Allison Richards, a 5-6 graduate of the Red Cloud School at Pine Ridge, S.D., and a First-Team All-Region choice both of her seasons at Northeast Community College at Norfolk. Last season, Richards averaged 23.9 points, fifth highest in NJCAA II in the nation, despite being the target of what Brewster calls “junk defenses” in nearly every game. She shot 40.3% from 3-point range while nailing 92 of them and was 108-136 from the free throw line for 79.4%. “Both her high school and college coaches have nothing but praise for her and I can see why,” Brewster said. Another guard with college experience is 5-6 Jordyn Stokes. She played the past two seasons at Iowa Lakes College at Estherville, where she averaged 10.6 points and was Third-Team All-Region last winter. As Chadron State fans already know, the Eagles’ freshman class will include 5-10 Demi Ferguson, the leading scorer at Chadron High each of the past four years and a 1,000-point career scorer. As a senior in 2023-24, she averaged 13.9 points and 7.7 rebounds and this week is playing in the Nebraska Coaches Association All-Star Game in Lincoln. Brewster said Ferguson’s “mindset and grit” are impressive. Another incoming freshman who signed early with the Eagles is Ryann Barry of Pierre, S.D. One of the Riggs High School football coaches contacted Brewster about her the soon after the CSC coach accepted the Chadron State job late last summer. It turns out that Barry not only was a basketball standout and a soccer all-stater, she also was the football team’s placekicker and booted 54 extra points last fall. The tipster said “she’s tough and has a big-time motor.” Barry started every game for the Class AA Riggs High basketball team her final three seasons. As a senior, she averaged 11.3 points, 4.6 rebounds. 4.0 assists and 3.1 steals while helping Riggs finish fifth at the state tournament with a 17-7 record. Not all of the recruits are mentioned in this article, but Brewster said each of them will have the opportunity to contribute this coming season and in the future. “We went after players who their coaches said have a strong work ethic, are team-oriented, are athletic and are good students,” Brewster noted. “Of course, not all of them will start or probably even play this year. Some of them will undoubtedly redshirt. But my staff and I are looking forward to working with them and helping them enjoy and benefit from their college experience at Chadron State.”

CSC women's basketball: 11 newcomers joining key returners in '24-25

By: Dave Collins Sports Director / Radio Voice of the Eagles

Chadron State introduced its new men's basketball head coach Wednesday afternoon at the Chicoine Center.&nbsp; Chris Francis is jumping up to the NCAA Division II level and bringing along his winning pedigree and exciting style of play from the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (NAIA).

From my conversation with the new Eagles basketball leader I learned what kind of style the Eagles will show on the court and that there should be plenty of "showtime" to keep the arena buzzing on game night.

Now that he's officially on the job Francis has to move quickly to get this year's roster put together.&nbsp; Superstars Josh Robinson and Bryce Latimer played out their eligibility last season and other role players have transferred out, but Coach Francis likes the returning core group and outlines ambitious plans to fill jerseys for this year's team.

Following his media conference and with assistance from the CSC women's program and players, Coach Francis hosted a kids basketball camp with over 50 kids taking part.

By: Dave Collins Sports Director / Radio Voice of the EaglesChadron State introduced its new men's basketball head coach Wednesday afternoon at the Chicoine Center.&nbsp; Chris Francis is jumping up to the NCAA Division II level and bringing along his winning pedigree and exciting style of play from the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (NAIA).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721323771809.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>From my conversation with the new Eagles basketball leader I learned what kind of style the Eagles will show on the court and that there should be plenty of "showtime" to keep the arena buzzing on game night.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dh_ipTfRxnY?si=hs7BL75IfuhCdcU_" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Now that he's officially on the job Francis has to move quickly to get this year's roster put together.&nbsp; Superstars Josh Robinson and Bryce Latimer played out their eligibility last season and other role players have transferred out, but Coach Francis likes the returning core group and outlines ambitious plans to fill jerseys for this year's team.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/59BBYOaiaBs?si=kj5EuXvTr3E55RjV" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Following his media conference and with assistance from the CSC women's program and players, Coach Francis hosted a kids basketball camp with over 50 kids taking part.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y2mymfnyPUg?si=nXLKswg8S2-D3-xW" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
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🎥 Chadron State's new basketball coach makes impressive debut, hosts kids camp

2024 Area B7 Legion Baseball Junior District Tournament Update

McCook, NE July 16 - Tuesday Championship Game 1: Alliance 7, McCook 2 Game 2: Necessary if Game 1 Winner is from Elimination Bracket (McCook or Sidney)

July 15 - Monday&nbsp; Semifinals Game 1: Alliance def. Chadron Game 2: McCook def. Sidney&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sunday Scoreboard Alliance 13, McCook 5 Chadron 11, Gering 6 Sidney 9, Gothenburg 3

<h2>2024 Area B7 Legion Baseball Junior District Tournament Update</h2>McCook, NE July 16 - Tuesday Championship Game 1: Alliance 7, McCook 2 Game 2: Necessary if Game 1 Winner is from Elimination Bracket (McCook or Sidney)July 15 - Monday&nbsp; Semifinals Game 1: Alliance def. Chadron Game 2: McCook def. Sidney&nbsp;&nbsp;Sunday Scoreboard Alliance 13, McCook 5 Chadron 11, Gering 6 Sidney 9, Gothenburg 3

Alliance claims B7 Legion Baseball Junior District Title

July 15 - Monday Semifinals Game 1: Alliance vs Chadron Game 2: McCook vs Sidney July 16 - Tuesday Championship Game 1: Monday's Winners Game 2: Necessary if Game 1 Winner is from Elimination Bracket (McCook or Sidney)

<h2>2024 Area B7 Legion Baseball Junior District Tournament Update</h2>McCook, NEJuly 15 - Monday Semifinals Game 1: Alliance vs Chadron Game 2: McCook vs Sidney July 16 - Tuesday Championship Game 1: Monday's Winners Game 2: Necessary if Game 1 Winner is from Elimination Bracket (McCook or Sidney)Sunday Scoreboard Alliance 13, McCook 5 Chadron 11, Gering 6 Sidney 9, Gothenburg 3