By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

It took a while for Hemingford to truly click on all cylinders&nbsp; Thursday night, but when they did the Bobcats pulled away in the 2nd half for a 58-18 win over Leyton.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Hemingford Head Coach Joshua Dean said it was a physical game and the first half was tightly contested.

"We were proud of our guys for how they weathered some early shifts in momentum, Dean said. " They stayed level headed, took coaching, and continued to get stronger throughout the evening."&nbsp;

The Bobcats led 14-6 after the first quarter and outscored the Warriors 8-6 in the 2nd quarter.&nbsp;

Leading by just 10 points at halftime 22-12, Hemingford put the game away by scoring 26 unanswered points in the 3rd quarter.

The Bobcats racked up 390 rushing yards and 0 passing yards according to Max Preps.

Junior running back Cody Galles had 14 carries for a 101 yards and two touchdowns, Sophomore Jacob Bryner averaged over 10 yards a carry with 16 touches for 167 yards and a touchdown.

Next up for Hemingford is their home opener against Sutherland next Friday.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostIt took a while for Hemingford to truly click on all cylinders&nbsp; Thursday night, but when they did the Bobcats pulled away in the 2nd half for a 58-18 win over Leyton.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hemingford Head Coach Joshua Dean said it was a physical game and the first half was tightly contested."We were proud of our guys for how they weathered some early shifts in momentum, Dean said. " They stayed level headed, took coaching, and continued to get stronger throughout the evening."&nbsp;The Bobcats led 14-6 after the first quarter and outscored the Warriors 8-6 in the 2nd quarter.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692978184679.jpeg" alt="Heminford football photo, Credit to Hemingford Public Schools" />
 <figcaption>Heminford football photo, Credit to Hemingford Public Schools</figcaption>
 </figure>Leading by just 10 points at halftime 22-12, Hemingford put the game away by scoring 26 unanswered points in the 3rd quarter.The Bobcats racked up 390 rushing yards and 0 passing yards according to Max Preps.Junior running back Cody Galles had 14 carries for a 101 yards and two touchdowns, Sophomore Jacob Bryner averaged over 10 yards a carry with 16 touches for 167 yards and a touchdown.Next up for Hemingford is their home opener against Sutherland next Friday.

Hemingford football starts off strong with win over Leyton

The time is here. On Friday night,&nbsp; the Alliance Bulldogs will open the 2023-2024 season under first year Head Coach T.D Stein, in hope of giving Alliance their first win since September of 2022. Despite a tough 0-9 record last year, The Bulldogs feel confident with the amount of returning players they bring back along with fresh faces, but Stein knows his team will be tested by the Chase County Longhorns.

"Historically, they're just a tough team, they got big and physical guys," Stein said.&nbsp; "But as long as we're doing our jobs and what we need to do, we'll be alright."

Chase County snuck into the postseason last with a 5-4 record before losing to Ord in the opening round of the playoffs 40-0. Longhorns&nbsp; Head Coach Nathan Gaswick tells Panhandle Post that they only graduated four seniors last season. "I think our strength will be our offensive and defensive lines as we have tremendous experience in those positions." Gaswick said.

Alliance is experienced at the line of scrimmage as well bringing back seniors Matt Moomey, Matthias Benzel, Angel Trejo on the lines.&nbsp; That matchup in the trenches between the Bulldogs and Longhorns could decide the game.

Looking a the series history, Alliance went to Chase County in the season opener last year and fell 35-8. The Longhorns limited the Bulldogs to just 121 yards of total offense. Jonah Amill had an interception in that game a year ago, and the Bulldogs are looking for their returning playmakers like Amill, Espen Lanik, Tristen Timbers, Aiden Hancock and Landon Crowe to make a huge impact on Friday night.

Tune in to the br0adcast from Bulldog Stadium starting at 6:45 on KCOW, 92.5 and 1400 and on panhandlepost.com.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe time is here. On Friday night,&nbsp; the Alliance Bulldogs will open the 2023-2024 season under first year Head Coach T.D Stein, in hope of giving Alliance their first win since September of 2022. Despite a tough 0-9 record last year, The Bulldogs feel confident with the amount of returning players they bring back along with fresh faces, but Stein knows his team will be tested by the Chase County Longhorns."Historically, they're just a tough team, they got big and physical guys," Stein said.&nbsp; "But as long as we're doing our jobs and what we need to do, we'll be alright."Chase County snuck into the postseason last with a 5-4 record before losing to Ord in the opening round of the playoffs 40-0. Longhorns&nbsp; Head Coach Nathan Gaswick tells Panhandle Post that they only graduated four seniors last season. "I think our strength will be our offensive and defensive lines as we have tremendous experience in those positions." Gaswick said.Alliance is experienced at the line of scrimmage as well bringing back seniors Matt Moomey, Matthias Benzel, Angel Trejo on the lines.&nbsp; That matchup in the trenches between the Bulldogs and Longhorns could decide the game.Looking a the series history, Alliance went to Chase County in the season opener last year and fell 35-8. The Longhorns limited the Bulldogs to just 121 yards of total offense. Jonah Amill had an interception in that game a year ago, and the Bulldogs are looking for their returning playmakers like Amill, Espen Lanik, Tristen Timbers, Aiden Hancock and Landon Crowe to make a huge impact on Friday night.Tune in to the br0adcast from Bulldog Stadium starting at 6:45 on KCOW, 92.5 and 1400 and on panhandlepost.com.

Preview: Alliance football battles tough Chase County 

By: Dave Collins Sports Director Updated: Saturday, 9:50 AM

🏐🥎🏈 High School Sports Schedule - Friday, August 25

🏈 Football Kickoff Times &amp; Scores

F |&nbsp;Chase County 38, Alliance 8

F |&nbsp;Chadron 48, Gordon-Rushville 0

F |&nbsp;Scottsbluff 34,&nbsp;Lincoln Pius X 7

F |&nbsp;Gering 20, Torrington, WY 0

F |&nbsp;Mitchell 55, Wheatland, WY 24

WEATHER POSTPONMENT - Kickoff now Saturday 4:00 MT for Sidney at Holdrege

F |&nbsp;Gothenburg 29, Ogallala 6

F | Perkins County 20, Bridgeport 14

F |&nbsp;Hitchcock County 54,&nbsp;Bayard 12

F |&nbsp;Mullen 55, Medicine Valley 14

F |&nbsp;Potter-Dix 73, Minatare 0

F|&nbsp;Sioux County 54,&nbsp; Creek Valley 6

F| Arthur County 48,&nbsp;Garden County 28

F|&nbsp;Wauneta-Palisade 39 Banner County 10

F| Alliance def. Douglas, WY, 24-26, 25-19, 15-9 (2-1)

F|&nbsp;Alliance def. Southeast, WY, 25-19, 24-26, 15-6 (2-1)

F|&nbsp;Chadron def. Gordon-Rushville, 25-20, 25-20, 25-17 (3-0)

F|&nbsp;Medicine Valley def. Mullen, 25-22, 25-23, 25-18 (3-0)

F|&nbsp;Potter-Dix def. Minatare, 25-19, 25-12, 25-8 (3-0)

F|&nbsp;Sioux County def. Creek Valley, 25-19, 25-15, 25-18 (3-0)

Southern Valley/Alma Triangular: Alliance, Gothenburg

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629461621684.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: Dave Collins Sports Director Updated: Saturday, 9:50 AM🏐🥎🏈 High School Sports Schedule - Friday, August 25🏈 Football Kickoff Times &amp; ScoresF |&nbsp;Chase County 38, Alliance 8F |&nbsp;Chadron 48, Gordon-Rushville 0F |&nbsp;Scottsbluff 34,&nbsp;Lincoln Pius X 7F |&nbsp;Gering 20, Torrington, WY 0F |&nbsp;Mitchell 55, Wheatland, WY 24WEATHER POSTPONMENT - Kickoff now Saturday 4:00 MT for Sidney at HoldregeF |&nbsp;Gothenburg 29, Ogallala 6 F | Perkins County 20, Bridgeport 14F |&nbsp;Hitchcock County 54,&nbsp;Bayard 12F |&nbsp;Hyannis 58, Kimball 20F |&nbsp;Maxwell 72, Morrill 6F |&nbsp;Mullen 55, Medicine Valley 14F |&nbsp;Paxton 33, Hay Springs 0F |&nbsp;Potter-Dix 73, Minatare 0F|&nbsp;Sioux County 54,&nbsp; Creek Valley 6F| Arthur County 48,&nbsp;Garden County 28F|&nbsp;Wauneta-Palisade 39 Banner County 10Crawford - BYE<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661174958557.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>🏐 VolleyballF| Alliance def. Douglas, WY, 24-26, 25-19, 15-9 (2-1)F|&nbsp;Alliance def. Southeast, WY, 25-19, 24-26, 15-6 (2-1)F|&nbsp;Chadron def. Gordon-Rushville, 25-20, 25-20, 25-17 (3-0)F|&nbsp;Medicine Valley def. Mullen, 25-22, 25-23, 25-18 (3-0)F|&nbsp;Potter-Dix def. Minatare, 25-19, 25-12, 25-8 (3-0)F|&nbsp;Sioux County def. Creek Valley, 25-19, 25-15, 25-18 (3-0)🥎 SoftballSouthern Valley/Alma Triangular: Alliance, Gothenburg

UPDATE: 🏐🥎🏈 High School Sports SCOREBOARD - Friday, August 25

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — What started out as the Denver Broncos' deepest position group ended up as their thinnest after wide receiver Jerry Jeudy was carted off the field with a hamstring injury Thursday.

Jeudy was running an end-around in an 11-on-11 red zone drill in a joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams when he pulled up, grabbing his right hamstring and crumpling to the grass near the sideline.

He had to be helped to the cart, then was taken for an MRI.

“Hopefully it's not anything long term,” coach Sean Payton said.

The Broncos started training camp with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-broncos-tim-patrick-injury-7acc906ce9e48e210c1031737e6cfdce">Tim Patrick injuring his left Achilles</a>&nbsp;almost a year to the day after tearing his right ACL. He'll miss his second straight season.

The same day Patrick got hurt, the Broncos lost KJ Hamler to a heart condition and last week they lost Jalen Virgil to a season-ending knee injury. He got hurt at the end of a 50-yard pass play against San Francisco just before halftime.

“I don't believe in being snake-bitten. I think we've had a really good offseason program,” Payton said, noting the likes of Justin Simmons and Mike McGlinchey are returning from injuries in time for the start of the season.

Jeudy’s injury leaves Courtland Sutton, rookie Marvin Mims Jr., second-year pro Brandon Johnson and Kendall Hinton as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russell-wilson-broncos-payton-nfl-5b4417730034ae0fd96b828e5aa1a31f">Russell Wilson’s top options</a>&nbsp;heading into a preseason finale against the Rams in Denver this weekend.

A second-round pick out of Oklahoma, Mims' acclimation to the NFL as both a receiver and a kick returner has been slowed by a pair of hamstring pulls, although he appears to be fully recovered from those setbacks.

“He'll play quite a bit on Saturday," Payton said.

Jeudy missed two games last season while dealing with rib and left ankle injuries and a right high ankle sprain in 2021 sidelined him for six games.

Entering his fourth season, the 2020 first-round pick had emerged as Denver’s No. 1 receiver after a strong finish last season when he had 35 catches for 523 yards and three touchdowns over the final six weeks of the season.

Jeudy caught Wilson's only touchdown pass this preseason, a 21-yard score on fourth down against the Arizona Cardinals.

On the Rams' side, wide receiver Cooper Kupp, who returned to practice this week after missing the previous three weeks because of a hamstring strain, said he expects to be ready to play in the team’s regular-season opener Sept. 10 against the Seattle Seahawks.

“It’s frustrating times right now, when you’re trying to get back to playing football again, but it feels good to be back, be out there with the guys and competing,” Kupp said. “I feel like I’m getting that rhythm. The ultimate goal is to be ready to go Week 1. I feel good about the path we’re on.”

Kupp began easing back into a practice routine earlier this week and participated in both joint practices against the Broncos.

“I thought he’s looked really good,” Rams coach Sean McVay said. “We wanted to be limited with him today, but he’s gotten a lot of work over the last four days. That was really a ramp-up of his workload, but that was kind of what we wanted to be able to do. He’s looked really good. He looked like Cooper, and that’s an excellent player for us.”

Kupp, along with many of the Rams other starters, is not expected to play in the exhibition finale.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692932130850.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — What started out as the Denver Broncos' deepest position group ended up as their thinnest after wide receiver Jerry Jeudy was carted off the field with a hamstring injury Thursday.Jeudy was running an end-around in an 11-on-11 red zone drill in a joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams when he pulled up, grabbing his right hamstring and crumpling to the grass near the sideline.He had to be helped to the cart, then was taken for an MRI.“Hopefully it's not anything long term,” coach Sean Payton said.The Broncos started training camp with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-broncos-tim-patrick-injury-7acc906ce9e48e210c1031737e6cfdce">Tim Patrick injuring his left Achilles</a>&nbsp;almost a year to the day after tearing his right ACL. He'll miss his second straight season.The same day Patrick got hurt, the Broncos lost KJ Hamler to a heart condition and last week they lost Jalen Virgil to a season-ending knee injury. He got hurt at the end of a 50-yard pass play against San Francisco just before halftime.“I don't believe in being snake-bitten. I think we've had a really good offseason program,” Payton said, noting the likes of Justin Simmons and Mike McGlinchey are returning from injuries in time for the start of the season.Jeudy’s injury leaves Courtland Sutton, rookie Marvin Mims Jr., second-year pro Brandon Johnson and Kendall Hinton as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russell-wilson-broncos-payton-nfl-5b4417730034ae0fd96b828e5aa1a31f">Russell Wilson’s top options</a>&nbsp;heading into a preseason finale against the Rams in Denver this weekend.A second-round pick out of Oklahoma, Mims' acclimation to the NFL as both a receiver and a kick returner has been slowed by a pair of hamstring pulls, although he appears to be fully recovered from those setbacks.“He'll play quite a bit on Saturday," Payton said.Jeudy missed two games last season while dealing with rib and left ankle injuries and a right high ankle sprain in 2021 sidelined him for six games.Entering his fourth season, the 2020 first-round pick had emerged as Denver’s No. 1 receiver after a strong finish last season when he had 35 catches for 523 yards and three touchdowns over the final six weeks of the season.Jeudy caught Wilson's only touchdown pass this preseason, a 21-yard score on fourth down against the Arizona Cardinals.On the Rams' side, wide receiver Cooper Kupp, who returned to practice this week after missing the previous three weeks because of a hamstring strain, said he expects to be ready to play in the team’s regular-season opener Sept. 10 against the Seattle Seahawks.“It’s frustrating times right now, when you’re trying to get back to playing football again, but it feels good to be back, be out there with the guys and competing,” Kupp said. “I feel like I’m getting that rhythm. The ultimate goal is to be ready to go Week 1. I feel good about the path we’re on.”Kupp began easing back into a practice routine earlier this week and participated in both joint practices against the Broncos.“I thought he’s looked really good,” Rams coach Sean McVay said. “We wanted to be limited with him today, but he’s gotten a lot of work over the last four days. That was really a ramp-up of his workload, but that was kind of what we wanted to be able to do. He’s looked really good. He looked like Cooper, and that’s an excellent player for us.”Kupp, along with many of the Rams other starters, is not expected to play in the exhibition finale.

Broncos lose another WR to injury before season begins

The season opens tonight between to Western Conference foes as the Alliance Bulldogs travel to Gering to face their fellow bulldogs. Alliance Head Coach Manda Clarke is starting her 2nd season and says her team is excited to open the season against a quality program in Gering.

"Gering is always tough, it's always a battle of the Bulldogs, especially going to Gering, that's a tough place to play," Clarke said.

The Bulldogs will look to avenge a loss to Gering last season where Alliance had a 2-0 set lead before Gering stormed back to win the match 3-2. Gering took the season series with Alliance two matches to one.

Alliance lost three important senior's from last season's team that went 16-7, but they feel they have the right chemistry and returning players back that in include Jaelynne Clarke, Kinley Pfeffer.

Gering went 12-16 in 2022, and lost some important pieces from last year's team. However, sixth year head coach Amanda Cochrane tells Panhandle Post she has a good blend of youth and veterans. Gering will look to Senior All-Conference Libero Alex Gonzalez-Orozco and fellow All-Conference Ella Rotherham to Gering this season.

Thursday's match should be a good measuring stick for both teams, as the first serve is scheduled for 6:15 in Gering, radio coverage begins at 6:15 on KCOW 92.5 1400 and online at panhandlepost.com, click on KCOW.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe season opens tonight between to Western Conference foes as the Alliance Bulldogs travel to Gering to face their fellow bulldogs. Alliance Head Coach Manda Clarke is starting her 2nd season and says her team is excited to open the season against a quality program in Gering."Gering is always tough, it's always a battle of the Bulldogs, especially going to Gering, that's a tough place to play," Clarke said.The Bulldogs will look to avenge a loss to Gering last season where Alliance had a 2-0 set lead before Gering stormed back to win the match 3-2. Gering took the season series with Alliance two matches to one.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692887682092.jpeg" alt="Jaelynne Clarke" />
 <figcaption>Jaelynne Clarke</figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance lost three important senior's from last season's team that went 16-7, but they feel they have the right chemistry and returning players back that in include Jaelynne Clarke, Kinley Pfeffer.Gering went 12-16 in 2022, and lost some important pieces from last year's team. However, sixth year head coach Amanda Cochrane tells Panhandle Post she has a good blend of youth and veterans. Gering will look to Senior All-Conference Libero Alex Gonzalez-Orozco and fellow All-Conference Ella Rotherham to Gering this season.Thursday's match should be a good measuring stick for both teams, as the first serve is scheduled for 6:15 in Gering, radio coverage begins at 6:15 on KCOW 92.5 1400 and online at panhandlepost.com, click on KCOW.

PREVIEW: Alliance VB travels to Gering to open season

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post

It's not a secret. The last couple of seasons have been challenging for the Alliance Bulldogs football program. However, this 2023 team isn't worried about the past, they are focused on forging their own path and turning around the program under first year Head Coach T.D Stein.

"Our focus is just changing the culture a little bit to get guys excited for football," Stein said. "I think we got the guys, we got the skill position players, we have the lineman, and it's just how we execute our simple game plan."

Stein is in his first year as a head coach, the former Chadron and CSC QB was a Graduate Assistant at West Texas A&amp;M last year and started his coaching career as an assistant at South Sioux City.&nbsp; Stein played against the Bulldogs during his career and knows that his players are resilient and built in the image of the town.

"Alliance is a tough town with people who come to work hard.&nbsp; You see that on the railroad and I really think it trickles down to the kids and that they're tough."

When looking at the Alliance football team and looking at the program's current 22 game losing streak and 0-9 record in 2022, it could be easy to dismiss this teams chances on Friday night's this fall.&nbsp; 

Starting quarterback and defensive back Landon Crowe&nbsp; is a senior who threw for 824 yards last season and is one of ten returning starters and explains why this year is different.&nbsp; "I'm really excited with all of the new coaches and players from last year and even new players," Crowe said. "We have a lot of new concepts, blocking schemes are simplified which makes it easier for the lineup and I think we're going to succeed."

Senior starting running back and linebacker Aiden Hancock says the coaching change has taken some adjustment but says his team is locked and ready to ready to go. " It's definitely a culture change for sure, a lot of new players came out, we kickoff week one against Chase County and the guys are hyped for that."

One thing Stein is&nbsp; excited about are his offensive weapons and playmakers on both offense and defense. That includes last year's leading receiver in yardage&nbsp;Senior Tristen Timbers, with 342 and three TD's, Senior Jonah Amill had 15 receptions last year for 145 yards.&nbsp; Sophomore Espen Lanik is coming off of an impressive freshman season is in a position to make even more plays this year.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostIt's not a secret. The last couple of seasons have been challenging for the Alliance Bulldogs football program. However, this 2023 team isn't worried about the past, they are focused on forging their own path and turning around the program under first year Head Coach T.D Stein."Our focus is just changing the culture a little bit to get guys excited for football," Stein said. "I think we got the guys, we got the skill position players, we have the lineman, and it's just how we execute our simple game plan."Stein is in his first year as a head coach, the former Chadron and CSC QB was a Graduate Assistant at West Texas A&amp;M last year and started his coaching career as an assistant at South Sioux City.&nbsp; Stein played against the Bulldogs during his career and knows that his players are resilient and built in the image of the town."Alliance is a tough town with people who come to work hard.&nbsp; You see that on the railroad and I really think it trickles down to the kids and that they're tough."When looking at the Alliance football team and looking at the program's current 22 game losing streak and 0-9 record in 2022, it could be easy to dismiss this teams chances on Friday night's this fall.&nbsp; Starting quarterback and defensive back Landon Crowe&nbsp; is a senior who threw for 824 yards last season and is one of ten returning starters and explains why this year is different.&nbsp; "I'm really excited with all of the new coaches and players from last year and even new players," Crowe said. "We have a lot of new concepts, blocking schemes are simplified which makes it easier for the lineup and I think we're going to succeed."Senior starting running back and linebacker Aiden Hancock says the coaching change has taken some adjustment but says his team is locked and ready to ready to go. " It's definitely a culture change for sure, a lot of new players came out, we kickoff week one against Chase County and the guys are hyped for that."One thing Stein is&nbsp; excited about are his offensive weapons and playmakers on both offense and defense. That includes last year's leading receiver in yardage&nbsp;Senior Tristen Timbers, with 342 and three TD's, Senior Jonah Amill had 15 receptions last year for 145 yards.&nbsp; Sophomore Espen Lanik is coming off of an impressive freshman season is in a position to make even more plays this year.Alliance&nbsp;Football ScheduleWeek 1: 8/25 vs&nbsp; Chase CountyWeek 2: 8/31 @ Gordon-RushvilleWeek 3: 9/8 vs ValentineWeek 4: 9/15&nbsp; @ GothenburgWeek 5: 9/22 vs OgalalaWeek 6: 9/29 vs MitchellWeek 7: 10/6 @ McCookWeek 8: 10/13 vs ChadronWeek 9:&nbsp; 10/20 @ Sidney

Alliance Football has renewed confidence under new Head Coach

FIRE &amp; ICE MECHANICAL SCOREBOARD By: Dave Collins Sports Director UPDATED: Friday, 7:03 AM

🏐🥎 High School Game Schedule - Thursday, August 24

F|&nbsp;Southwest 47, South Platte 19

F|&nbsp;Gering def. Alliance, 27-25, 25-17, 25-16 (3-0) 📻 KCOW 92.5 FM

F|&nbsp;Bayard def. Bridgeport, 25-18, 25-17, 20-25, 27-25 (3-1)

F|&nbsp;Arthur County def. Hyannis, 25-17, 25-23, 25-15 (3-0)

F|&nbsp;Gordon-Rushville def. Hemingford, 25-12, 25-17 (2-0)

F|&nbsp;Hemingford def. Kimball, 25-23, 25-20 (2-0)

F|&nbsp;Chadron def. Mitchell, 21-25, 25-17, 25-19, 21-25, 15-7

F|&nbsp;Leyton def. Potter-Dix, 25-14, 25-5 (2-0)

F|&nbsp;Potter-Dix def. Minatare, 25-11, 25-11 (2-0)

F|&nbsp;Sandhills/Thedford def. Hay Springs, 25-17, 25-11 (2-0)

F|&nbsp;Southwest def. South Platte, 25-15, 25-17, 25-15 (3-0)

F|&nbsp;Sutherland def. Creek Valley, 25-14, 25-14 (2-0)

FIRE &amp; ICE MECHANICAL SCOREBOARD By: Dave Collins Sports Director UPDATED: Friday, 7:03 AM🏐🥎 High School Game Schedule - Thursday, August 24🏈 FootballF|&nbsp;Hemingford 58, Leyton 18F|&nbsp;Southwest 47, South Platte 19🏐 VolleyballF|&nbsp;Gering def. Alliance, 27-25, 25-17, 25-16 (3-0) 📻 KCOW 92.5 FMF|&nbsp;Bayard def. Bridgeport, 25-18, 25-17, 20-25, 27-25 (3-1)F|&nbsp;Arthur County def. Hyannis, 25-17, 25-23, 25-15 (3-0)F|&nbsp;Gordon-Rushville def. Hemingford, 25-12, 25-17 (2-0)F|&nbsp;Hemingford def. Kimball, 25-23, 25-20 (2-0)F|&nbsp;Chadron def. Mitchell, 21-25, 25-17, 25-19, 21-25, 15-7F|&nbsp;Leyton def. Potter-Dix, 25-14, 25-5 (2-0)F|&nbsp;Potter-Dix def. Minatare, 25-11, 25-11 (2-0)F|&nbsp;Sandhills/Thedford def. Hay Springs, 25-17, 25-11 (2-0)F|&nbsp;Southwest def. South Platte, 25-15, 25-17, 25-15 (3-0)Sidney at Sterling, COF|&nbsp;Sutherland def. Creek Valley, 25-14, 25-14 (2-0)🥎 SoftballF|&nbsp;Gering 8, Scottsbluff 0<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629461621684.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

UPDATE: 🏐🥎🏈 High School Scoreboard - Thursday, August 24

Lady Raider Varsity Team Scores - Varsity

 3rd place: Emily McCune, Alliance, +21, Total Gross 94

7th place: Kenzie Pourier, Chadron, +30, Total Gross 103

12th place: Kayel Lambert,&nbsp; Alliance , 36, Total Gross 109

14th place: Ryley Norris, Alliance,&nbsp; +36,&nbsp; &nbsp;Total Gross&nbsp; 109

Sidney, NELady Raider Varsity Team Scores - VarsityPos. Team Total1 Scottsbluff 375T2 Ogallala 426T2 Gering 4264 Alliance 4605 Chadron 4616 Sidney 4637 McCook 4948 Kimball 538Notable individual results: 3rd place: Emily McCune, Alliance, +21, Total Gross 947th place: Kenzie Pourier, Chadron, +30, Total Gross 10312th place: Kayel Lambert,&nbsp; Alliance , 36, Total Gross 10914th place: Ryley Norris, Alliance,&nbsp; +36,&nbsp; &nbsp;Total Gross&nbsp; 109

Alliance Girls Golf finishes 4th at Lady Raider invite

Fight to finish. Those three words are the mindset of the Alliance Volleyball program as they are set to open the season on the road at Gering on Thursday. 

Expectations are high for the Alliance VB program in 2023, coming off of a 16-17 record last season, but with a handful of starters coming back, the Bulldogs are poised to be competitive yet again in a grueling Western Conference.

Head Coach Manda Clarke is in her 2nd season has Head Coach and said last year the season went well as they fell in the post-season to a&nbsp; Sidney program that made the State Tournament.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Clarke says the summer went really well for her team as the girls attended several team camps and won a camp in Colorado and finished runner up in Chadron.&nbsp; She feels her team has great chemistry and that should show in matches this year.

Looking at some of Alliance's top players, Senior Jaelynne Clarke, who is the daughter of Coach Clarke is coming off a monster season where she was undoubtedly one of the best players not Western Nebraska, but the whole state as she led Class B in Blocks was top-15 in kills. The high school sports website MaxPreps has Clarke in the top-10 players in Nebraska regardless of class. She played as a middle blocker last year, but don't be surprised if plays outside hitter for Alliance this season.

&nbsp;Senior Kinley Pfeiffer returns as the starting setter, as does Senior Haylie Winter as the Libero. Other impact players coming into the season includes Senior Regan Braun, Senior Kaylee Henthorn, Junior Josie Sanders, Junior Shyla Salcido and Junior Macey Seebohm.

As always, the Western Conference is loaded with talent, as Clarke says Sidney returns some of their State Tournament team and and Scottsbluff seems to always be in the mix. Chadron brings back some solid talent as does a young Gering team, who Alliance will face on Thursday night in Gering, with the varsity game at 6:30 on KCOW.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostFight to finish. Those three words are the mindset of the Alliance Volleyball program as they are set to open the season on the road at Gering on Thursday. Expectations are high for the Alliance VB program in 2023, coming off of a 16-17 record last season, but with a handful of starters coming back, the Bulldogs are poised to be competitive yet again in a grueling Western Conference. Head Coach Manda Clarke is in her 2nd season has Head Coach and said last year the season went well as they fell in the post-season to a&nbsp; Sidney program that made the State Tournament.&nbsp; &nbsp;Clarke says the summer went really well for her team as the girls attended several team camps and won a camp in Colorado and finished runner up in Chadron.&nbsp; She feels her team has great chemistry and that should show in matches this year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692803801604.jpeg" alt="Alliance Volleyball team photo after practice" />
 <figcaption>Alliance Volleyball team photo after practice</figcaption>
 </figure>Looking at some of Alliance's top players, Senior Jaelynne Clarke, who is the daughter of Coach Clarke is coming off a monster season where she was undoubtedly one of the best players not Western Nebraska, but the whole state as she led Class B in Blocks was top-15 in kills. The high school sports website MaxPreps has Clarke in the top-10 players in Nebraska regardless of class. She played as a middle blocker last year, but don't be surprised if plays outside hitter for Alliance this season.&nbsp;Senior Kinley Pfeiffer returns as the starting setter, as does Senior Haylie Winter as the Libero. Other impact players coming into the season includes Senior Regan Braun, Senior Kaylee Henthorn, Junior Josie Sanders, Junior Shyla Salcido and Junior Macey Seebohm.As always, the Western Conference is loaded with talent, as Clarke says Sidney returns some of their State Tournament team and and Scottsbluff seems to always be in the mix. Chadron brings back some solid talent as does a young Gering team, who Alliance will face on Thursday night in Gering, with the varsity game at 6:30 on KCOW.....

Alliance Volleyball poised for strong season 

In what appeared to be a pitchers duel at first, turned into an all out heavyweight&nbsp; battle as the Alliance Bulldogs&nbsp; softball team fell one run short in a 10-9 loss to Chadron on Tuesday night. Hannah Schneider was brilliant through out the game, striking out five Cardinal batters over six innings.

It was Alliance who struck first in the top of the 3rd, with a two-run homerun off of the bat of Senior Ciara Hudson to give the Bulldogs a two run lead.

Chadron responded with seven run 3rd inning, and they were able to hold off an Alliance comeback to earn the victory at Hampton Field.

The loss drops Alliance to 3-3 overall and the Cardinals improved to 3-3.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostIn what appeared to be a pitchers duel at first, turned into an all out heavyweight&nbsp; battle as the Alliance Bulldogs&nbsp; softball team fell one run short in a 10-9 loss to Chadron on Tuesday night. Hannah Schneider was brilliant through out the game, striking out five Cardinal batters over six innings.It was Alliance who struck first in the top of the 3rd, with a two-run homerun off of the bat of Senior Ciara Hudson to give the Bulldogs a two run lead.Chadron responded with seven run 3rd inning, and they were able to hold off an Alliance comeback to earn the victory at Hampton Field.The loss drops Alliance to 3-3 overall and the Cardinals improved to 3-3.

RECAP: Alliance softball fall short in battle with Chadron

The Alliance Bulldogs are coming off a 13-20 season a year ago, but do not let that record fool you. Head Coach Carlos Palomo is in year nine as Head Coach of the Bulldogs, and he believes this could be his best team yet.

"The past couple of years we have been very young," Palomo said. "Now I feel this is the deepest we've been pitching, the most experienced starting wise, we just have to stay healthy through the course of the season and hopefully we can get hot at the right time."

Alliance comes into the match-up against Chadron with a 3-2 record while the Cardinals are 2-2 in the young season. Palomo thinks that the Western Conference feels more open than other seasons, but knows Chadron, who were Sub-District Champions last season always presents a challenge.

"Every time you get the chance to play them, it's always a fun, heated rivalry," Palomo said. "It's always going to be a close game it seems like."

KCOW 92.5 and 1400 will have full coverage and broadcast of the Alliance Bulldogs softball game at the Chadron Cardinals. First pitch is scheduled for 6.p.m. You can also tune in at Panhandlepost.com&nbsp;

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle PostThe Alliance Bulldogs are coming off a 13-20 season a year ago, but do not let that record fool you. Head Coach Carlos Palomo is in year nine as Head Coach of the Bulldogs, and he believes this could be his best team yet."The past couple of years we have been very young," Palomo said. "Now I feel this is the deepest we've been pitching, the most experienced starting wise, we just have to stay healthy through the course of the season and hopefully we can get hot at the right time."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692670245737.jpeg" alt="Alliance Softball player Diane DuBray looks in for a pitch. Photo Courtesy of Jeff Schneider" />
 <figcaption>Alliance Softball player Diane DuBray looks in for a pitch. Photo Courtesy of Jeff Schneider</figcaption>
 </figure>Alliance comes into the match-up against Chadron with a 3-2 record while the Cardinals are 2-2 in the young season. Palomo thinks that the Western Conference feels more open than other seasons, but knows Chadron, who were Sub-District Champions last season always presents a challenge."Every time you get the chance to play them, it's always a fun, heated rivalry," Palomo said. "It's always going to be a close game it seems like."KCOW 92.5 and 1400 will have full coverage and broadcast of the Alliance Bulldogs softball game at the Chadron Cardinals. First pitch is scheduled for 6.p.m. You can also tune in at Panhandlepost.com&nbsp;

Softball Preview: Alliance travels to Chadron Tuesday

BY: Dave Collins Sports Director UPDATED: Tuesday, 8:38 PM

F| Chadron 10, Alliance 9 - 📻 KCOW 92.5 FM

F|&nbsp;Scottsbluff 12, Sterling, CO 5

BY: Dave Collins Sports Director UPDATED: Tuesday, 8:38 PMSoftballF| Chadron 10, Alliance 9 - 📻 KCOW 92.5 FMF|&nbsp;Gering 8, Hershey 0F|&nbsp;Scottsbluff 12, Sterling, CO 5<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629461621684.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>

🥎 UPDATE: Western Nebraska Prep Softball Scoreboard - Tuesday, August 22

Tuesday: Alliance girls softball @ Chadron 5:45 Pre game Show, 6 PM first pitch (KCOW, 92.6, 1400)

Thursday: Alliance VB @ Gering, 6:30 first serve, pregame show at 6:15&nbsp;(KCOW, 92.6, 1400)

Friday: Alliance FB vs. Chase County, 7 pm, 6:45 pregame&nbsp;(KCOW, 92.6, 1400)

Broadcast schedule for 8-21/8-25Monday: No gamesTuesday: Alliance girls softball @ Chadron 5:45 Pre game Show, 6 PM first pitch (KCOW, 92.6, 1400) Wednesday: No gamesThursday: Alliance VB @ Gering, 6:30 first serve, pregame show at 6:15&nbsp;(KCOW, 92.6, 1400)Friday: Alliance FB vs. Chase County, 7 pm, 6:45 pregame&nbsp;(KCOW, 92.6, 1400)

Panhandle Post weekly Sports Broadcast Schedule

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post &nbsp;&nbsp;Holdrege, NE - The Alliance Bulldogs softball team showcased their abilities this weekend, finishing the season-opening tournament with a 3-2 record and 3rd place in a very competitive tournament to start 2023.

Alliance had a picture perfect start to the year by thumping the Hershey Panthers on Friday 11-2.&nbsp; Game two was a tough test, as the Bulldogs fell behind 14-7 in the 5th inning to HWY 6 Trailblazers, but fell 14-12. On Saturday, the started great again for Alliance, dominating the Lexington Minutemaids 11-2.

In the 3rd place game in the Tournament, Alliance blanked Southern Valley/Alma 7-0.

&nbsp;The Bulldogs open up Western Conference play on Tuesday against their rival Chadron Cardinals, who come in at 2-2. The game will be broadcasted on KCOW 92.5 and 1400 and online at Panhandle Post.

By Alex Benzegala Panhandle Post &nbsp;&nbsp;Holdrege, NE - The Alliance Bulldogs softball team showcased their abilities this weekend, finishing the season-opening tournament with a 3-2 record and 3rd place in a very competitive tournament to start 2023.Alliance had a picture perfect start to the year by thumping the Hershey Panthers on Friday 11-2.&nbsp; Game two was a tough test, as the Bulldogs fell behind 14-7 in the 5th inning to HWY 6 Trailblazers, but fell 14-12. On Saturday, the started great again for Alliance, dominating the Lexington Minutemaids 11-2.In the 3rd place game in the Tournament, Alliance blanked Southern Valley/Alma 7-0.&nbsp;The Bulldogs open up Western Conference play on Tuesday against their rival Chadron Cardinals, who come in at 2-2. The game will be broadcasted on KCOW 92.5 and 1400 and online at Panhandle Post.

Alliance Softball finishes 3rd in tourney to start season

BY: DAVE COLLINS Sports Director Updated: Saturday, 9:04 AM

North Platte St. Patrick's 48, Bridgeport 12

<figure>
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 </figure>BY: DAVE COLLINS Sports Director Updated: Saturday, 9:04 AMThursday, August 17🥎 SoftballGering 11, McCook 7Gothenburg 3, Gering 2Friday, August 18🏈 Football&nbsp;North Platte St. Patrick's 48, Bridgeport 12🥎 SoftballGering 12, Crete 8Gering 12, Malcolm 7Gering 16, Aurora 5Gretna 14, Omaha Burke 0Chadron 17,&nbsp; Southern Valley/Alma 5HWY 6 14, Alliance 12Alliance 11, Hershey 2Scottsbluff 13,&nbsp; Lexington 1<figure>
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🥎🏈 High School Scoreboard & Schedule - Thursday/Friday

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zcN2QJmFlwc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>BY: DAVE COLLINS Sports Director<figure>
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🎥 CSC Eagles OC Micah Smith Fall Camp Interview & Practice Clips

DENVER (AP) — Ketel Marte had a two-run single and Tommy Pham added a go-ahead double in a five-run ninth inning, helping the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Colorado Rockies 8-5 on Tuesday night.

Christian Walker homered for Arizona, and Kevin Ginkel (6-0) got the victory. Closer Paul Sewald loaded the bases with one out in the ninth before retiring the final two batters for his 24th save.

Brenton Doyle homered and Nolan Jones and Elehuris Montero had three hits each for the Rockies, who used a three-run seventh to take a 5-3 lead.

The Diamondbacks flipped the script in the ninth when Alek Thomas singled and Geraldo Perdomo doubled on the first two pitches from closer Justin Lawrence (3-6). Marte singled to tie it and came home on Pham’s broken-bat double. Pham scored on Lourdes Gurriel Jr.’s single.

“He threw me a slider first pitch and I was just looking for that two-seamer,” Marte said. “He threw me a two-seamer and I got the hit.”

Gurriel stole second and Jace Peterson singled off Tyler Kinley to make it a three-run game.

“The way we came back, the things we did the way we executed all the way until our final out in that ninth inning was great to see,” manager Torey Lovullo said. “We’re obviously battling some frustration and a little bit of anger but they were able to slow down and push that energy in the right direction and executed at the most critical time.”

Walker continued his assault on Colorado pitching with a two-run homer in the third inning to put Arizona ahead 2-0. It was his 26th on the season and second in two nights.

“He’s swinging the bat really well this year,” Rockies starter Ty Blach said about Walker. “You look at his average compared to years past, he’s hitting for a higher average with the same amount of power. He’s a good player and he’s got a good approach right now.

Colorado got a run back in the third with a walk, single and two groundouts.

The Diamondbacks went ahead in an error-filled seventh. Reliever Brent Suter threw wildly to first on Perdomo’s bunt single, Marte walked and both runners moved up on a one-out groundout.

Catcher Elías Díaz’s pickoff attempt to third went into left field, allowing Perdomo to come home but Jones threw out Marte trying to score on the play.

Colorado tied it in the bottom of the inning on an RBI double by Jones and Doyle’s two-run homer, his eighth.

Diamondbacks: RHP Zach Davies was slated to pitch five or six innings with Triple-A Reno on Tuesday night. He has not pitched for Arizona since July 18 due to inflammation in his lower back.

Arizona 2020 first-round pick Bryce Jarvis made his major league debut when he came on to pitch in the second inning. His father, Kevin, who pitched for 10 teams — including the Diamondbacks — in a 12-year career, was in attendance.

“There were some nerves in the pen for sure but they all kind of went away as soon as I stepped on the field and made that run in,” Jarvis said. “When I took the rubber it all kind of melted away.”

Jarvis allowed a run and struck out three in three innings.

Arizona rookie RHP Slade Cecconi (0-0, 2.84) will make his second career start, while Colorado will send LHP Austin Gomber (9-9, 5.33 ERA) to the mound in the series finale Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692198853834.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DENVER (AP) — Ketel Marte had a two-run single and Tommy Pham added a go-ahead double in a five-run ninth inning, helping the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Colorado Rockies 8-5 on Tuesday night.Christian Walker homered for Arizona, and Kevin Ginkel (6-0) got the victory. Closer Paul Sewald loaded the bases with one out in the ninth before retiring the final two batters for his 24th save.Brenton Doyle homered and Nolan Jones and Elehuris Montero had three hits each for the Rockies, who used a three-run seventh to take a 5-3 lead.The Diamondbacks flipped the script in the ninth when Alek Thomas singled and Geraldo Perdomo doubled on the first two pitches from closer Justin Lawrence (3-6). Marte singled to tie it and came home on Pham’s broken-bat double. Pham scored on Lourdes Gurriel Jr.’s single.“He threw me a slider first pitch and I was just looking for that two-seamer,” Marte said. “He threw me a two-seamer and I got the hit.”Gurriel stole second and Jace Peterson singled off Tyler Kinley to make it a three-run game.“The way we came back, the things we did the way we executed all the way until our final out in that ninth inning was great to see,” manager Torey Lovullo said. “We’re obviously battling some frustration and a little bit of anger but they were able to slow down and push that energy in the right direction and executed at the most critical time.”Walker continued his assault on Colorado pitching with a two-run homer in the third inning to put Arizona ahead 2-0. It was his 26th on the season and second in two nights.“He’s swinging the bat really well this year,” Rockies starter Ty Blach said about Walker. “You look at his average compared to years past, he’s hitting for a higher average with the same amount of power. He’s a good player and he’s got a good approach right now.Colorado got a run back in the third with a walk, single and two groundouts.The Diamondbacks went ahead in an error-filled seventh. Reliever Brent Suter threw wildly to first on Perdomo’s bunt single, Marte walked and both runners moved up on a one-out groundout.Catcher Elías Díaz’s pickoff attempt to third went into left field, allowing Perdomo to come home but Jones threw out Marte trying to score on the play.Colorado tied it in the bottom of the inning on an RBI double by Jones and Doyle’s two-run homer, his eighth.TRAINER’S ROOMDiamondbacks: RHP Zach Davies was slated to pitch five or six innings with Triple-A Reno on Tuesday night. He has not pitched for Arizona since July 18 due to inflammation in his lower back.LIKE FATHER...Arizona 2020 first-round pick Bryce Jarvis made his major league debut when he came on to pitch in the second inning. His father, Kevin, who pitched for 10 teams — including the Diamondbacks — in a 12-year career, was in attendance.“There were some nerves in the pen for sure but they all kind of went away as soon as I stepped on the field and made that run in,” Jarvis said. “When I took the rubber it all kind of melted away.”Jarvis allowed a run and struck out three in three innings.UP NEXTArizona rookie RHP Slade Cecconi (0-0, 2.84) will make his second career start, while Colorado will send LHP Austin Gomber (9-9, 5.33 ERA) to the mound in the series finale Wednesday.

Rockies blow 9th inning lead in loss to Diamondbacks

BY: JOHN MURPHY CSC Sports Information Director

&nbsp; COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- &nbsp;The 2023 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Preseason Poll was released today with CSC picked to finish 11 out of 15 teams. The Eagles received 63 points, beating out Westminster, New Mexico Highlands, Black Hills State and Western Colorado. Points values are accumulated from the league's 15 head coaches, who ranked their opposition 1-14 without voting for their own team. MSU-Denver had 195 points and 13 first place votes to be named the conferences favorite. The Roadrunners advanced to the D2 Volleyball Sweet 16 last season. Second place was Regis with 181 points, while Colorado Mesa had 169 points to finish third. Both teams received one vote to finish in first place. Behind the Mavericks, in order, were Colorado School of Mines, CSU-Pueblo, CCU, UCCS, South Dakota Mines and Fort Lewis. The Eagles will open their season by hosting a tournament. Their opponents include York University and MSU-Moorhead on Friday, September 1, and South Dakota Mines on September 2.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692198691253.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY: JOHN MURPHY CSC Sports Information Director&nbsp; COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- &nbsp;The 2023 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Preseason Poll was released today with CSC picked to finish 11 out of 15 teams. The Eagles received 63 points, beating out Westminster, New Mexico Highlands, Black Hills State and Western Colorado. Points values are accumulated from the league's 15 head coaches, who ranked their opposition 1-14 without voting for their own team. MSU-Denver had 195 points and 13 first place votes to be named the conferences favorite. The Roadrunners advanced to the D2 Volleyball Sweet 16 last season. Second place was Regis with 181 points, while Colorado Mesa had 169 points to finish third. Both teams received one vote to finish in first place. Behind the Mavericks, in order, were Colorado School of Mines, CSU-Pueblo, CCU, UCCS, South Dakota Mines and Fort Lewis. The Eagles will open their season by hosting a tournament. Their opponents include York University and MSU-Moorhead on Friday, September 1, and South Dakota Mines on September 2.

CSC picked 11th in RMAC volleyball preseason poll

FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) — The newest&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hnd_hdtr/status/1681221768915353601">Colorado State defensive lineman</a>&nbsp;was recently called upon to lead his teammates in a series of pre-practice stretches.

Hidetora Hanada showed off some flexibility-testing poses straight out of a&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/all22highlights/status/1683194483226333184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">sumo wrestling</a>&nbsp;handbook, including deep squats that had some players grimacing.

Just a tiny&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/CFL/status/1638978632562651138">glimpse into why</a>&nbsp;he's a sumo grand champion.

Back in Japan, the 6-foot-1, 280-pound Hanada rose to the highest amateur ranks of sumo wrestling by refusing to be pushed around in the ring. He's taking that same approach to the football field as he learns the ropes of being a run stuffer/pass rusher for the Rams.

Swapping his mawashi — the traditional loincloth sumo wrestlers wear — for shoulder pads and a helmet, the 21-year-old has quickly adjusted to life in the foothills of Fort Collins, about an hour's drive north of Denver. His English has come a long way (learned in eight months), he knows the basic rules of football (offsides is bad) and is picking up some valuable “kimarite” (finishing moves). He's also discovered a love of lasagna.

“While competing sumo in Japan, I started thinking that I wanted to fight many strong athletes worldwide. Football is the most popular sport in the United States and I wanted to see how I can compete in that environment,” Hanada explained through a translator. "I wanted to see my limit. That’s why I decided to challenge football.”

In July, Hanada wrote on social media he was attending Colorado State to play football. The news made a splash in Japan, where sumo wrestling is largely viewed as the national sport. He was on track to possibly becoming a rare professional Yokozuna, which is the highest rank a sumo wrestler can achieve inside the dohyo (ring).

He already was an amateur Yokozuna, in addition to earning gold at the 2022 World Games in the heavyweight division.

“Changing my focus to football might have disappointed some but I’d like to prove to them that I’m challenging something new and (will be) successful at it on the global stage,” said Hanada, whose team opens the season at home against Washington State on Sept. 2. “I’m thinking of each one of them all the time while pushing myself to the new challenge every day.”

The object in sumo wrestling remains straight-forward: Win by either pushing an opponent out of the ring or by forcing them to the ground. The object in American football for a defensive lineman isn't all that much different — keep low and bring the opponent to the turf.

Hanada was working out with a semi-pro football team in Japan called the IBM Big Blue, when he met Mike Phair, the defensive line coach for Ottawa of the Canadian Football League. Phair was asked by Big Blue team supervisor Shinzo Yamada last spring to venture over to Japan to work with Hanada and other defensive linemen.

It didn't take Phair long to see his potential.

“Just the power and the leverage and strength," Phair said. “His skillset, I was really impressed.”

Hanada attended a CFL combine in Edmonton, where his strength from sumo wrestling allowed him to stand out. He bench-pressed and bull-rushed his way into the minds of everyone watching. And while the CFL would have to wait, Phair helped find him a college home.

He already had the perfect person in mind — Buddha Williams, the defensive line coach at Colorado State. Phair grew tight with Williams from their days together at Illinois.

“Buddha's a heck of a coach and a heck of a teacher,” Phair said. “I knew Buddha would spend time with him.”

“You see tremendous strides every day,” Williams said. “He continues to get better playing with unbelievable pad level, playing a lot faster. The game for him is starting to slow down.”

To learn some football moves, Hanada studies film of Los Angeles Rams standout Aaron Donald, a three-time defensive player of the year who, like Hanada, is listed at 6-1 and 280 pounds.

“I’m hoping if I aim at his techniques and his speed," Hanada said, "I can improve myself to get to his level some day."

His teammates have taken him under their wing as well.

“I’m very impressed with him,” defensive lineman James Mitchell said.

After a recent practice, Mitchell stayed late to work with the raw player from Wakayama, Japan. Mitchell watched as Hanada pounded a padded sled to work on staying low.

Staying low, that's business as usual. Whether it's the ring or the field, he can throw his weight around with the best of them.

“I'm still learning. With everything different here — different food, different water, different language and different environment — it’s not always been easy and there have been many hard times,” Hanada said. “But I’m starting to enjoy the new challenge (and have) so much support.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692121677493.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP) — The newest&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hnd_hdtr/status/1681221768915353601">Colorado State defensive lineman</a>&nbsp;was recently called upon to lead his teammates in a series of pre-practice stretches.Hidetora Hanada showed off some flexibility-testing poses straight out of a&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/all22highlights/status/1683194483226333184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">sumo wrestling</a>&nbsp;handbook, including deep squats that had some players grimacing.Just a tiny&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/CFL/status/1638978632562651138">glimpse into why</a>&nbsp;he's a sumo grand champion.Back in Japan, the 6-foot-1, 280-pound Hanada rose to the highest amateur ranks of sumo wrestling by refusing to be pushed around in the ring. He's taking that same approach to the football field as he learns the ropes of being a run stuffer/pass rusher for the Rams.Swapping his mawashi — the traditional loincloth sumo wrestlers wear — for shoulder pads and a helmet, the 21-year-old has quickly adjusted to life in the foothills of Fort Collins, about an hour's drive north of Denver. His English has come a long way (learned in eight months), he knows the basic rules of football (offsides is bad) and is picking up some valuable “kimarite” (finishing moves). He's also discovered a love of lasagna.“While competing sumo in Japan, I started thinking that I wanted to fight many strong athletes worldwide. Football is the most popular sport in the United States and I wanted to see how I can compete in that environment,” Hanada explained through a translator. "I wanted to see my limit. That’s why I decided to challenge football.”In July, Hanada wrote on social media he was attending Colorado State to play football. The news made a splash in Japan, where sumo wrestling is largely viewed as the national sport. He was on track to possibly becoming a rare professional Yokozuna, which is the highest rank a sumo wrestler can achieve inside the dohyo (ring).He already was an amateur Yokozuna, in addition to earning gold at the 2022 World Games in the heavyweight division.“Changing my focus to football might have disappointed some but I’d like to prove to them that I’m challenging something new and (will be) successful at it on the global stage,” said Hanada, whose team opens the season at home against Washington State on Sept. 2. “I’m thinking of each one of them all the time while pushing myself to the new challenge every day.”The object in sumo wrestling remains straight-forward: Win by either pushing an opponent out of the ring or by forcing them to the ground. The object in American football for a defensive lineman isn't all that much different — keep low and bring the opponent to the turf.Hanada was working out with a semi-pro football team in Japan called the IBM Big Blue, when he met Mike Phair, the defensive line coach for Ottawa of the Canadian Football League. Phair was asked by Big Blue team supervisor Shinzo Yamada last spring to venture over to Japan to work with Hanada and other defensive linemen.It didn't take Phair long to see his potential.“Just the power and the leverage and strength," Phair said. “His skillset, I was really impressed.”Hanada attended a CFL combine in Edmonton, where his strength from sumo wrestling allowed him to stand out. He bench-pressed and bull-rushed his way into the minds of everyone watching. And while the CFL would have to wait, Phair helped find him a college home.He already had the perfect person in mind — Buddha Williams, the defensive line coach at Colorado State. Phair grew tight with Williams from their days together at Illinois.“Buddha's a heck of a coach and a heck of a teacher,” Phair said. “I knew Buddha would spend time with him.”Williams has, too.“You see tremendous strides every day,” Williams said. “He continues to get better playing with unbelievable pad level, playing a lot faster. The game for him is starting to slow down.”To learn some football moves, Hanada studies film of Los Angeles Rams standout Aaron Donald, a three-time defensive player of the year who, like Hanada, is listed at 6-1 and 280 pounds.“I’m hoping if I aim at his techniques and his speed," Hanada said, "I can improve myself to get to his level some day."His teammates have taken him under their wing as well.“I’m very impressed with him,” defensive lineman James Mitchell said.After a recent practice, Mitchell stayed late to work with the raw player from Wakayama, Japan. Mitchell watched as Hanada pounded a padded sled to work on staying low.Staying low, that's business as usual. Whether it's the ring or the field, he can throw his weight around with the best of them.“I'm still learning. With everything different here — different food, different water, different language and different environment — it’s not always been easy and there have been many hard times,” Hanada said. “But I’m starting to enjoy the new challenge (and have) so much support.”