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="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </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

Legion Baseball B7 Junior Districts Down to Final Four

CHADRON – Following a national search with nearly 100 applicants, Chris Francis has been named the head coach of Chadron State College's men's basketball program. Francis will be formerly introduced during an on-campus event at the Chicoine Center Wednesday, July 17 at 2 p.m. Following his introduction, which is free and open to the public, Francis will conduct a free clinic for youth in first through eighth grade from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Chicoine Center.

Francis, who has a career record of 176-94, has been the head coach at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, an NAIA school in Chickasha, Oklahoma, since 2015. During his time, Francis has led the Drovers to five NAIA National Tourney appearances, a Sooner Athletic Conference Championship, and a Sooner Athletic Conference Tournament Championship. His 2021 squad earned the No. 1 seed at the NAIA tourney and posted a 17-3 record. The year prior, the Drovers advanced to the Elite Eight and won 22 games. His team last season went 19-10.

"A new era has begun for Chadron State College men's basketball," said Interim Athletic Director Dr. China Jude. "Coach Francis is a mentor, educator, and highly respected coach who will passionately lead our program to the next level. I am excited about the future of Chadron State basketball."

Chadron State College President Ron K. Patterson echoes Jude's comments.

"We are thrilled to have someone like Coach Francis lead our men's basketball program. Coach Francis has consistently won at the NAIA level and made it to the national tournament five consecutive years. His experience and coaching pedigree speak for themselves. More importantly, he is a leader of young men. He is passionate about his players graduating and developing young men into successful and productive citizens," Patterson said.

Francis said he's excited, as well. And he's looking forward to coaching and competing in a premier Division II conference such as the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.

"[Coaching at CSC] is a great opportunity to have a chance to impact another community, impact more student-athletes, and work alongside everyone at Chadron who are all so welcoming," Francis said. "President Patterson has a great vision for CSC and hearing him and the rest of the staff talk about the excitement that the future holds, made it very clear that this is where I'm supposed to be. I've always looked forward to challenges because that's where opportunity comes from, and coaching in one of the best NCAA D2 conferences in the RMAC is something I look forward to doing, along with developing relationships with coaches in the league, and also in the surrounding high schools."

Francis, who was named the Sooner Athletic Conference Coach of the Year in 2017 and 2022, has developed multiple players, including 25 all-conference selections, nine NAIA All-Americans, and his former player, Samkelo Cele, recently signed a summer league deal with the New York Knicks.

"My ultimate goal is to leave a legacy of excellence both on and off the court. I aspire to empower my players to reach their full potential not only as athletes but as individuals," Francis said. "I hope to instill a culture of hard work, resilience, and respect within the team, setting a standard of sportsmanship and integrity for years to come. Beyond the wins and losses, I aim to develop leaders who will carry forward the values learned through our program, our college, and this community. My legacy will be defined by the growth and success of the student-athletes I have the privilege to coach and mentor because if we do it this way, championships will be won."

Prior to being the head coach at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, Francis was the assistant men's basketball coach for three seasons. He was responsible for all recruiting and fundraising efforts, which he continued when he became the head coach in 2015. Francis was also an assistant coach at LSU-Shreveport for one season in 2013 when the Pilots reached the NAIA Final Four.

A former student-athlete, Francis was a starting guard and captain of the men's basketball team at Rogers State University. In 2011, he helped lead Rogers State to the NAIA Elite Eight and a 30-2 record. Following that season, Francis was named the Sooner Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year. A sports management major, Francis was recently inducted into the Rogers State Athletic Hall of Fame.

<figure>
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 </figure>By: CSC Sports InformationCHADRON – Following a national search with nearly 100 applicants, Chris Francis has been named the head coach of Chadron State College's men's basketball program. Francis will be formerly introduced during an on-campus event at the Chicoine Center Wednesday, July 17 at 2 p.m. Following his introduction, which is free and open to the public, Francis will conduct a free clinic for youth in first through eighth grade from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Chicoine Center.Francis, who has a career record of 176-94, has been the head coach at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, an NAIA school in Chickasha, Oklahoma, since 2015. During his time, Francis has led the Drovers to five NAIA National Tourney appearances, a Sooner Athletic Conference Championship, and a Sooner Athletic Conference Tournament Championship. His 2021 squad earned the No. 1 seed at the NAIA tourney and posted a 17-3 record. The year prior, the Drovers advanced to the Elite Eight and won 22 games. His team last season went 19-10."A new era has begun for Chadron State College men's basketball," said Interim Athletic Director Dr. China Jude. "Coach Francis is a mentor, educator, and highly respected coach who will passionately lead our program to the next level. I am excited about the future of Chadron State basketball."Chadron State College President Ron K. Patterson echoes Jude's comments."We are thrilled to have someone like Coach Francis lead our men's basketball program. Coach Francis has consistently won at the NAIA level and made it to the national tournament five consecutive years. His experience and coaching pedigree speak for themselves. More importantly, he is a leader of young men. He is passionate about his players graduating and developing young men into successful and productive citizens," Patterson said.Francis said he's excited, as well. And he's looking forward to coaching and competing in a premier Division II conference such as the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference."[Coaching at CSC] is a great opportunity to have a chance to impact another community, impact more student-athletes, and work alongside everyone at Chadron who are all so welcoming," Francis said. "President Patterson has a great vision for CSC and hearing him and the rest of the staff talk about the excitement that the future holds, made it very clear that this is where I'm supposed to be. I've always looked forward to challenges because that's where opportunity comes from, and coaching in one of the best NCAA D2 conferences in the RMAC is something I look forward to doing, along with developing relationships with coaches in the league, and also in the surrounding high schools."Francis, who was named the Sooner Athletic Conference Coach of the Year in 2017 and 2022, has developed multiple players, including 25 all-conference selections, nine NAIA All-Americans, and his former player, Samkelo Cele, recently signed a summer league deal with the New York Knicks."My ultimate goal is to leave a legacy of excellence both on and off the court. I aspire to empower my players to reach their full potential not only as athletes but as individuals," Francis said. "I hope to instill a culture of hard work, resilience, and respect within the team, setting a standard of sportsmanship and integrity for years to come. Beyond the wins and losses, I aim to develop leaders who will carry forward the values learned through our program, our college, and this community. My legacy will be defined by the growth and success of the student-athletes I have the privilege to coach and mentor because if we do it this way, championships will be won."Prior to being the head coach at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, Francis was the assistant men's basketball coach for three seasons. He was responsible for all recruiting and fundraising efforts, which he continued when he became the head coach in 2015. Francis was also an assistant coach at LSU-Shreveport for one season in 2013 when the Pilots reached the NAIA Final Four.A former student-athlete, Francis was a starting guard and captain of the men's basketball team at Rogers State University. In 2011, he helped lead Rogers State to the NAIA Elite Eight and a 30-2 record. Following that season, Francis was named the Sooner Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year. A sports management major, Francis was recently inducted into the Rogers State Athletic Hall of Fame.

New Chadron State men's basketball coach brings successful NAIA pedigree to Eagles

CHADRON – Mannie Reinsch (pronounced Rhine-sh), an experienced and successful athletic administrator, was named Chadron State College's Athletic Director Monday, President Ron K. Patterson announced. Reinsch's first day at CSC will be July 29.

"We are thrilled to have someone like Mannie lead our athletic department," Patterson said. "Mannie has a wealth of experience, a passion for athletics, and is deeply committed to ensuring student-athletes succeed in and out of the classroom at Chadron State College. His knowledge of NCAA and Division II best practices, as well as a proven ability as a fundraiser, will position our athletic department and college well. The future is bright for CSC athletics."

Reinsch, a Kearney native and graduate of the University of Nebraska-Kearney, was most recently the Senior Associate Director of Athletics Championships Resources at Austin Peay State University, a Division I institution in Tennessee, and is excited to return to his home state and lead an NCAA Division II athletic department.

"My wife and I are excited to be back in Nebraska and join Chadron State College," Reinsch said. "What initially drew me to CSC was President Patterson's leadership and vision, but I have known about CSC my entire life and I knew of the athletic department's success as a student-athlete and competitor at UNK. It's an exciting opportunity to lead a department that has a lot of potential and infrastructure to take it to the next level."

Reinsch said he will focus on instilling three core values to the athletic department.

"We are going to focus on academic performance, competitive excellence, and community service and engagement. We're going to excel with all three things; and compete to win in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, in the classroom, and in the community. I can't wait to get started," he said.

Reinsch said he will focus on instilling a culture of success and excellence, increasing fan engagement, and involving the community and booster club, as well as hosting events. However, Reinsch said the most important thing is to take good care of student-athletes.

"I want our student-athletes at CSC to have a great experience and I want to ensure they have many fond memories, as well as a lot of success. Chadron State College and the community of Chadron is a great place, and I plan to continually reinforce that. I believe CSC can be very successful with its athletic programs. I believe the coaches have the ability to be successful and compete. The campus supports athletics and the community is bought in. All the people I met are tremendous and I can't wait to join the team."

While at Austin Peay, Reinsch and his staff hosted championship events and he assisted with multiple facility renovations. Additionally, he helped develop an endowment for the baseball program, created Austin Peay's Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Collective, and oversaw record attendance numbers at football games.

Prior to working at Austin Peay, Reinsch spent three years as the Associate Athletic Director for External Relations and Development at Colorado State University-Pueblo. At Pueblo, Reinsch helped the athletic department raise close to $1 million annually with corporate partnerships and more than $200,000 through the booster club. He also developed a crowdfunding campaign that generated more than $150,000 for the 21 varsity sports, and in 2021-22, nearly half of Pueblo's teams qualified for NCAA postseasons. He was a proponent of community involvement and taught sports marketing and sports management courses.

Reinsch, a former baseball student-athlete who earned both of his degrees at UNK, began his career as a graduate assistant at his alma mater. Once he graduated, he was named the Facility and Event Manager and was promoted to the Assistant Athletic Director for Facilities and Events two years later. Reinsch helped the Lopers generate more than $160,000 in sponsorships and he was involved with several leadership and planning groups. While in Kearney, Reinsch benefited from a variety of experiences, including working within game operations, sports sales and services.

Reinsch and his wife, Shauna, have two daughters, Merritt and Navy.

<figure>
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 </figure>By: Alex Helmbrecht, College RelationsCHADRON – Mannie Reinsch (pronounced Rhine-sh), an experienced and successful athletic administrator, was named Chadron State College's Athletic Director Monday, President Ron K. Patterson announced. Reinsch's first day at CSC will be July 29."We are thrilled to have someone like Mannie lead our athletic department," Patterson said. "Mannie has a wealth of experience, a passion for athletics, and is deeply committed to ensuring student-athletes succeed in and out of the classroom at Chadron State College. His knowledge of NCAA and Division II best practices, as well as a proven ability as a fundraiser, will position our athletic department and college well. The future is bright for CSC athletics."Reinsch, a Kearney native and graduate of the University of Nebraska-Kearney, was most recently the Senior Associate Director of Athletics Championships Resources at Austin Peay State University, a Division I institution in Tennessee, and is excited to return to his home state and lead an NCAA Division II athletic department."My wife and I are excited to be back in Nebraska and join Chadron State College," Reinsch said. "What initially drew me to CSC was President Patterson's leadership and vision, but I have known about CSC my entire life and I knew of the athletic department's success as a student-athlete and competitor at UNK. It's an exciting opportunity to lead a department that has a lot of potential and infrastructure to take it to the next level."Reinsch said he will focus on instilling three core values to the athletic department."We are going to focus on academic performance, competitive excellence, and community service and engagement. We're going to excel with all three things; and compete to win in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, in the classroom, and in the community. I can't wait to get started," he said.Reinsch said he will focus on instilling a culture of success and excellence, increasing fan engagement, and involving the community and booster club, as well as hosting events. However, Reinsch said the most important thing is to take good care of student-athletes."I want our student-athletes at CSC to have a great experience and I want to ensure they have many fond memories, as well as a lot of success. Chadron State College and the community of Chadron is a great place, and I plan to continually reinforce that. I believe CSC can be very successful with its athletic programs. I believe the coaches have the ability to be successful and compete. The campus supports athletics and the community is bought in. All the people I met are tremendous and I can't wait to join the team."While at Austin Peay, Reinsch and his staff hosted championship events and he assisted with multiple facility renovations. Additionally, he helped develop an endowment for the baseball program, created Austin Peay's Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Collective, and oversaw record attendance numbers at football games.Prior to working at Austin Peay, Reinsch spent three years as the Associate Athletic Director for External Relations and Development at Colorado State University-Pueblo. At Pueblo, Reinsch helped the athletic department raise close to $1 million annually with corporate partnerships and more than $200,000 through the booster club. He also developed a crowdfunding campaign that generated more than $150,000 for the 21 varsity sports, and in 2021-22, nearly half of Pueblo's teams qualified for NCAA postseasons. He was a proponent of community involvement and taught sports marketing and sports management courses.Reinsch, a former baseball student-athlete who earned both of his degrees at UNK, began his career as a graduate assistant at his alma mater. Once he graduated, he was named the Facility and Event Manager and was promoted to the Assistant Athletic Director for Facilities and Events two years later. Reinsch helped the Lopers generate more than $160,000 in sponsorships and he was involved with several leadership and planning groups. While in Kearney, Reinsch benefited from a variety of experiences, including working within game operations, sports sales and services.Reinsch and his wife, Shauna, have two daughters, Merritt and Navy.

Chadron State hires new athletic director

by Shamus McKnight,&nbsp; Senior Associate Communications Director for&nbsp;Nebraska Athletics

Lincoln, Ne - The University of Nebraska Athletic Department and 1890 Nebraska announced a partnership today, making 1890 Nebraska the official Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) Collective of Nebraska Athletics and streamlining the process to make it easier for fans to support Husker Athletics among several options.

“Nebraska has always been an innovator in collegiate athletics, whether it is in strength and conditioning, nutrition, and athletics performance facilities, and NIL is the latest frontier,” said Nebraska Athletic Director Troy Dannen. “This partnership with 1890 Nebraska will make it convenient for fans and donors to directly support NIL for our student-athletes and provide 1890 donors many of the same benefits and privileges that our Huskers Athletic Fund members receive for their support of Nebraska Athletics.”

“We are excited to partner with the University of Nebraska as the Official NIL Collective of Nebraska Athletics,” said 1890 Nebraska CEO Carson Schott. “For the past couple of years, our ongoing work with the university has supported student-athletes and coaches, helping to recruit and retain top talent. This deepened commitment to a united front will enhance our efforts further and take our support to the next level.”

With this partnership, contributions to 1890 Nebraska are now eligible for Huskers Athletic Fund priority points and can be included in calculating Huskers Athletic Fund membership levels, including Nebraska Leadership Society annual and lifetime memberships. In addition, 1890 contributions are eligible to receive tax deductibility when directed to the 1890 Foundation and priority points are declined at the time of the donation. Every donor contribution

to 1890 goes directly to student-athletes, and 1890 contributions are also eligible for 1890-specific benefits and experiences.

Donations to the Huskers Athletic Fund are eligible to receive benefits such as priority seating, exclusive access, VIP experiences and more.&nbsp; Donations to the Huskers Athletic Fund can be directed to current funding priorities, including the Student-Athlete Experience Fund, the new track and field complex on Innovation Campus and the HAF Discretionary Fund.

by Shamus McKnight,&nbsp; Senior Associate Communications Director for&nbsp;Nebraska AthleticsLincoln, Ne - The University of Nebraska Athletic Department and 1890 Nebraska announced a partnership today, making 1890 Nebraska the official Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) Collective of Nebraska Athletics and streamlining the process to make it easier for fans to support Husker Athletics among several options.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720451511293.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Nebraska has always been an innovator in collegiate athletics, whether it is in strength and conditioning, nutrition, and athletics performance facilities, and NIL is the latest frontier,” said Nebraska Athletic Director Troy Dannen. “This partnership with 1890 Nebraska will make it convenient for fans and donors to directly support NIL for our student-athletes and provide 1890 donors many of the same benefits and privileges that our Huskers Athletic Fund members receive for their support of Nebraska Athletics.”“We are excited to partner with the University of Nebraska as the Official NIL Collective of Nebraska Athletics,” said 1890 Nebraska CEO Carson Schott. “For the past couple of years, our ongoing work with the university has supported student-athletes and coaches, helping to recruit and retain top talent. This deepened commitment to a united front will enhance our efforts further and take our support to the next level.”With this partnership, contributions to 1890 Nebraska are now eligible for Huskers Athletic Fund priority points and can be included in calculating Huskers Athletic Fund membership levels, including Nebraska Leadership Society annual and lifetime memberships. In addition, 1890 contributions are eligible to receive tax deductibility when directed to the 1890 Foundation and priority points are declined at the time of the donation. Every donor contributionto 1890 goes directly to student-athletes, and 1890 contributions are also eligible for 1890-specific benefits and experiences.Donations to the Huskers Athletic Fund are eligible to receive benefits such as priority seating, exclusive access, VIP experiences and more.&nbsp; Donations to the Huskers Athletic Fund can be directed to current funding priorities, including the Student-Athlete Experience Fund, the new track and field complex on Innovation Campus and the HAF Discretionary Fund.

1890 Nebraska Named Official NIL Collective of Nebraska

CHADRON, Neb. -- Wrestlers will be leading the way during Chadron State College's Athletic Hall of Fame inductions this fall.  Five of the nine former Eagles are going into the Hall of Fame as wrestlers.  They'll be joined by two football all-stars and two standouts on women's track and field teams. 

The inductions will take place the evening of Saturday, October 5, following the Eagles' home football game vs. Adams State. 

All five of the wrestlers became All-Americans by placing at NCAA National Tournaments at least once. Current Chadron State Head Wrestling Coach Brett Hunter was a national champion in both 2007 and 2009.  A native of Rushville, where he won two state titles, Hunter had a 133-32 collegiate record after winning at least 30 matches each year at CSC.          

Another of the wrestling honorees, Josh Majerus, also had a distinguished career.  He remains Chadron State's only three-time All-American during the NCAA-era, after placing second, first and fourth at national tournaments his final three seasons. 

A graduate of Boone Central High School at Albion, Neb., where he is now the head wrestling coach, Majerus had a 117-42 career record at CSC, second only to Hunter in victories.  Both Hunter and Majerus were inducted into the National Wrestling Coaches Association's Division II Hall of Fame in 2020.

The other wrestlers going into the CSC Hall of Fame are Mark Pfeifer of Garden Valley, Calif., Devlon Webb of Omaha and Matt Weingart of Alliance. All five were coached by Dr. Scott Ritzen.

Pfeifer wrestled two years at Sacramento Community College before transferring to Chadron State.  He qualified for the NCAA II National Tournament both years he was at CSC, where he had a 63-21 record and placed fifth at 149 pounds as a senior in 2006-07.

Webb came to Chadron State after going 36-0 while winning the Class B 112-pound state championship as a senior for the Boys Town Cowboys in 2004.  A 125-pounder in college, Webb never had to cut weight while becoming one of just 10 Eagles to qualify for nationals all four years (Hunter is another.} 

Webb won at least 20 matches his final three seasons and placed fifth at nationals as a junior in 2007-08 to gain his All-American status.  He finished with an 87-65 career record. He sells life and health insurance in the Houston area.

Things never came easily for Weingart, but he persisted.  As a CSC senior in 2007-08, he lost his opening match at the national tournament to J.D. Naig of Nebraska-Omaha, who went on to win his third consecutive national championship that year.  Following his loss, Weingart responded by winning his next three matches, one of them in overtime, and placed sixth at 174 pounds.

Weingart is a pharmacist at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff.  His wife, the former Jamie Mills, also from Alliance, played volleyball at Chadron State.

The Eagles' wrestlers finished the 2006-07 National Tournament with four All-Americans and scored an all-time high 58 points, putting them sixth in the team standings. Both Majerus and Weingart were named to the NCAA II All-Academic Second-Team and Chadron State was third in the national academic team standings. 

The football players selected for the Eagles' Hall of Fame are Paul Schweger, a graduate of Longmont High School in Colorado, and John Strand of Imperial.  The women being honored after excelling in track and field are Stacy Langemeier Girard of Alliance and Mary Wells of Albion.

Schweger and Strand were among the leaders of the Eagles' 2006 and 2007 teams, both of which were 12-1 overall and 8-0 while winning RMAC championships.

Schweger was a four-year starter at safety, where he made 182 solo tackles and 107 more that were assisted, intercepted eight passes, broke up 19 others and forced five fumbles. He was first-team all-RMAC as both a junior and a senior and was first-team on the Omaha World-Herald's NCAA Division II All-Nebraska three times. 

As a senior, Schweger was chosen both CSC's Outstanding Defensive and Special Teams Player. Eagles' Defensive Coordinator Todd Auer said, "There's nobody I'd rather have at his position."

Schweger is in the insurance business in Windsor, Colo.

At 6-foot-8, 280 pounds, Strand was an imposing offensive lineman who helped CSC classmate Danny Woodhead became college football's all-time leading rusher.

As a senior when Stand played left tackle, the Eagles averaged 438.5 yards and 37.5 points, he was named first-team All-RMAC and All-Nebraska as well as First-Team Southwest Region.  Daktronics also named him Second-Team All-American.   His brother, Matt, was an all-star quarterback for the Eagles and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2018.

John teaches mathematics and is the boys' basketball coach at Arapahoe High School in southwest Nebraska.

Stacy Langemeier was the Class B state champion in the 800 meters as a senior at Alliance High School in 2005. Despite having her seasons cut short several times by injuries, when she graduated as Stacy Girard in 2009, she possessed six middle distance and distance records.

She still owns three of those records and remains the only CSC student-athlete, male or female, to place in a national distance race.  That occurred in 2008, when she was fifth in the 1500 in 4:33.51 at the National Meet at Walnut, Calif., for one of her school records.  

As a senior in 2009, Girard had exceptional times that qualified her for both the indoor and outdoor national meets, but a foot stress fracture prevented her from competing at either of them. 

However, in 2013, four years after Girard had graduated Summa Cum Laude at CSC, she ran her first two cross country races. By then, she was doing graduate work and had one semester of athletic eligibility remaining. During her second race, she was 14th among 153 contestants at the South Central Regional Championships to earn All-Region honors. 

Stacy, her husband, John, and their three children reside in Chadron.

Mary Wells won both the Class B shot put and discus at the Nebraska State Meet as a senior at Boone Central High in 2004, and had a stellar throwing career for the Eagles the next four years. She placed 18 times and earned 74 points at RMAC Meets. Six times she was a top-three medal winner in the shot put or discus at conference meets.

Early in her freshman season, Wells set the CSC record in the discus and as a junior reached 154-3 to become the first CSC women to eclipse 150 feet in the event. As a senior in 2008, she won the shot put and the discus both five times.  Now a resident of San Antonio, Texas, she became an All-American in the discus as a junior and an All-American in the shot put indoors as a senior.

Mary's older sister, Jacqueline Wells Hobbs, one of CSC's all-time great throwers, was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2022.  Two younger brothers, Thomas and Ryan, played football for the Eagles.

<figure>
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 </figure>By: Con MarshallCHADRON, Neb. -- Wrestlers will be leading the way during Chadron State College's Athletic Hall of Fame inductions this fall. Five of the nine former Eagles are going into the Hall of Fame as wrestlers. They'll be joined by two football all-stars and two standouts on women's track and field teams. The inductions will take place the evening of Saturday, October 5, following the Eagles' home football game vs. Adams State. All five of the wrestlers became All-Americans by placing at NCAA National Tournaments at least once. Current Chadron State Head Wrestling Coach Brett Hunter was a national champion in both 2007 and 2009. A native of Rushville, where he won two state titles, Hunter had a 133-32 collegiate record after winning at least 30 matches each year at CSC. Another of the wrestling honorees, Josh Majerus, also had a distinguished career. He remains Chadron State's only three-time All-American during the NCAA-era, after placing second, first and fourth at national tournaments his final three seasons. A graduate of Boone Central High School at Albion, Neb., where he is now the head wrestling coach, Majerus had a 117-42 career record at CSC, second only to Hunter in victories. Both Hunter and Majerus were inducted into the National Wrestling Coaches Association's Division II Hall of Fame in 2020.The other wrestlers going into the CSC Hall of Fame are Mark Pfeifer of Garden Valley, Calif., Devlon Webb of Omaha and Matt Weingart of Alliance. All five were coached by Dr. Scott Ritzen.Pfeifer wrestled two years at Sacramento Community College before transferring to Chadron State. He qualified for the NCAA II National Tournament both years he was at CSC, where he had a 63-21 record and placed fifth at 149 pounds as a senior in 2006-07.Webb came to Chadron State after going 36-0 while winning the Class B 112-pound state championship as a senior for the Boys Town Cowboys in 2004. A 125-pounder in college, Webb never had to cut weight while becoming one of just 10 Eagles to qualify for nationals all four years (Hunter is another.} Webb won at least 20 matches his final three seasons and placed fifth at nationals as a junior in 2007-08 to gain his All-American status. He finished with an 87-65 career record. He sells life and health insurance in the Houston area.Things never came easily for Weingart, but he persisted. As a CSC senior in 2007-08, he lost his opening match at the national tournament to J.D. Naig of Nebraska-Omaha, who went on to win his third consecutive national championship that year. Following his loss, Weingart responded by winning his next three matches, one of them in overtime, and placed sixth at 174 pounds.Weingart is a pharmacist at Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff. His wife, the former Jamie Mills, also from Alliance, played volleyball at Chadron State.The Eagles' wrestlers finished the 2006-07 National Tournament with four All-Americans and scored an all-time high 58 points, putting them sixth in the team standings. Both Majerus and Weingart were named to the NCAA II All-Academic Second-Team and Chadron State was third in the national academic team standings. The football players selected for the Eagles' Hall of Fame are Paul Schweger, a graduate of Longmont High School in Colorado, and John Strand of Imperial. The women being honored after excelling in track and field are Stacy Langemeier Girard of Alliance and Mary Wells of Albion.Schweger and Strand were among the leaders of the Eagles' 2006 and 2007 teams, both of which were 12-1 overall and 8-0 while winning RMAC championships.Schweger was a four-year starter at safety, where he made 182 solo tackles and 107 more that were assisted, intercepted eight passes, broke up 19 others and forced five fumbles. He was first-team all-RMAC as both a junior and a senior and was first-team on the Omaha World-Herald's NCAA Division II All-Nebraska three times. As a senior, Schweger was chosen both CSC's Outstanding Defensive and Special Teams Player. Eagles' Defensive Coordinator Todd Auer said, "There's nobody I'd rather have at his position."Schweger is in the insurance business in Windsor, Colo.At 6-foot-8, 280 pounds, Strand was an imposing offensive lineman who helped CSC classmate Danny Woodhead became college football's all-time leading rusher.As a senior when Stand played left tackle, the Eagles averaged 438.5 yards and 37.5 points, he was named first-team All-RMAC and All-Nebraska as well as First-Team Southwest Region. Daktronics also named him Second-Team All-American. His brother, Matt, was an all-star quarterback for the Eagles and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2018.John teaches mathematics and is the boys' basketball coach at Arapahoe High School in southwest Nebraska.Stacy Langemeier was the Class B state champion in the 800 meters as a senior at Alliance High School in 2005. Despite having her seasons cut short several times by injuries, when she graduated as Stacy Girard in 2009, she possessed six middle distance and distance records.She still owns three of those records and remains the only CSC student-athlete, male or female, to place in a national distance race. That occurred in 2008, when she was fifth in the 1500 in 4:33.51 at the National Meet at Walnut, Calif., for one of her school records. As a senior in 2009, Girard had exceptional times that qualified her for both the indoor and outdoor national meets, but a foot stress fracture prevented her from competing at either of them. However, in 2013, four years after Girard had graduated Summa Cum Laude at CSC, she ran her first two cross country races. By then, she was doing graduate work and had one semester of athletic eligibility remaining. During her second race, she was 14th among 153 contestants at the South Central Regional Championships to earn All-Region honors. Stacy, her husband, John, and their three children reside in Chadron.Mary Wells won both the Class B shot put and discus at the Nebraska State Meet as a senior at Boone Central High in 2004, and had a stellar throwing career for the Eagles the next four years. She placed 18 times and earned 74 points at RMAC Meets. Six times she was a top-three medal winner in the shot put or discus at conference meets.Early in her freshman season, Wells set the CSC record in the discus and as a junior reached 154-3 to become the first CSC women to eclipse 150 feet in the event. As a senior in 2008, she won the shot put and the discus both five times. Now a resident of San Antonio, Texas, she became an All-American in the discus as a junior and an All-American in the shot put indoors as a senior.Mary's older sister, Jacqueline Wells Hobbs, one of CSC's all-time great throwers, was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2022. Two younger brothers, Thomas and Ryan, played football for the Eagles.

Five wrestlers among Eagles’ Hall of Fame inductees this fall

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Nebraska-Kearney&nbsp;standout&nbsp;Wes Ferguson&nbsp;runs in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usatf.org/events/2024/2024-u-s-olympic-team-trials-%E2%80%94-track-field">2024 U.S. Olympic Trials</a>&nbsp;this Thursday (June 27) in Eugene, Oreg.

The men's 800-meter first round/quarterfinals are set for 6:30 p.m. Central and can be viewed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.peacocktv.com/">Peacock</a>. The start list will be revealed closer to race day;&nbsp;<a href="https://results.usatf.org/2024trials/">live results</a>&nbsp;are available as well.&nbsp;

If Ferguson (Fremont) finishes in the top six of his heat or has one of the next three fastest times, he'll advance to Friday's semifinals (three heats of seven). That begins at 8:39 p.m. Central and can be seen on Peacock&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usanetwork.com/">USA</a>. Finally, to reach Sunday's finals at 6:51 p.m. Central, he'll have to finish in the top two of a heat or have one of the next three fastest times. Once again, the finals (nine qualifiers) will air on Peacock and NBC.&nbsp;

Unlike some other nations that have a wildcard spot available, the U.S. policy on making the Olympic team is straight forward; finish in the top three and head to Paris (July 26-Aug. 11).&nbsp;

Ferguson currently ranks eighth in the country this year with a time of 1:45.06. Bryce Hoppel (adidas/Kansas Alum; 1:43.68), Isaiah Jewett (NIKE/Southern Cal Alum; 1:44.02) and Brandon Miller (Brooks/Texas A&amp;M Alum; 1:44.24) lead the field. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A five-time NCAA Division II national champion and nine-time All-American, Ferguson is one of six declared runners with D2 ties. Before transferring to Power 5 schools, Shane Cohen (Tampa) and Abraham Alvarado (Cal State&nbsp;Stanislaus) were D2 student-athletes with Benjamin Allen (Concordia-St. Paul), Robert Downs (Texas A&amp;M-Kingsville) and Derek Holdsworth (Western Oregon) each being D2 standouts during their careers. &nbsp;

UNK has had two Olympic athletes in recent times in wrestler&nbsp;Tervel&nbsp;Dlagnev&nbsp;(2012 and 2016) and track team member Curtis Harry (two-man bobsleigh).&nbsp;Dlagnev&nbsp;eventually earned a bronze medal in 2016 with Harry representing Trinidad &amp; Tobago in the 1994 and 1998 Winter games. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719244993599.png" alt="Wes Ferguson (Photo courtesy of UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Wes Ferguson (Photo courtesy of UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>UNK AthleticsKearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Nebraska-Kearney&nbsp;standout&nbsp;Wes Ferguson&nbsp;runs in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usatf.org/events/2024/2024-u-s-olympic-team-trials-%E2%80%94-track-field">2024 U.S. Olympic Trials</a>&nbsp;this Thursday (June 27) in Eugene, Oreg.The men's 800-meter first round/quarterfinals are set for 6:30 p.m. Central and can be viewed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.peacocktv.com/">Peacock</a>. The start list will be revealed closer to race day;&nbsp;<a href="https://results.usatf.org/2024trials/">live results</a>&nbsp;are available as well.&nbsp;If Ferguson (Fremont) finishes in the top six of his heat or has one of the next three fastest times, he'll advance to Friday's semifinals (three heats of seven). That begins at 8:39 p.m. Central and can be seen on Peacock&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usanetwork.com/">USA</a>. Finally, to reach Sunday's finals at 6:51 p.m. Central, he'll have to finish in the top two of a heat or have one of the next three fastest times. Once again, the finals (nine qualifiers) will air on Peacock and NBC.&nbsp;Unlike some other nations that have a wildcard spot available, the U.S. policy on making the Olympic team is straight forward; finish in the top three and head to Paris (July 26-Aug. 11).&nbsp;Ferguson currently ranks eighth in the country this year with a time of 1:45.06. Bryce Hoppel (adidas/Kansas Alum; 1:43.68), Isaiah Jewett (NIKE/Southern Cal Alum; 1:44.02) and Brandon Miller (Brooks/Texas A&amp;M Alum; 1:44.24) lead the field. &nbsp;&nbsp;A five-time NCAA Division II national champion and nine-time All-American, Ferguson is one of six declared runners with D2 ties. Before transferring to Power 5 schools, Shane Cohen (Tampa) and Abraham Alvarado (Cal State&nbsp;Stanislaus) were D2 student-athletes with Benjamin Allen (Concordia-St. Paul), Robert Downs (Texas A&amp;M-Kingsville) and Derek Holdsworth (Western Oregon) each being D2 standouts during their careers. &nbsp;UNK has had two Olympic athletes in recent times in wrestler&nbsp;Tervel&nbsp;Dlagnev&nbsp;(2012 and 2016) and track team member Curtis Harry (two-man bobsleigh).&nbsp;Dlagnev&nbsp;eventually earned a bronze medal in 2016 with Harry representing Trinidad &amp; Tobago in the 1994 and 1998 Winter games. &nbsp;

UNK Grad Ferguson Runs in the Olympic Trials this Weekend

Alliance, Neb. - Eagle Media, Panhandle Post and KCOW Radio are excited to welcome Canon Rath as the new “Voice” of the Alliance Bulldogs. Rath currently serves as a News Director for Eagle Media and works throughout the Nebraska Markets for North Platte Post, Sandhills Post and Panhandle Post. He will maintain his current position with this new expanded role.

Last season, Rath called games for our sister market, Sandhills Post, calling local area games of the week on Flatrock 100.7. His duties included doing play-by-play for football and basketball.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We are thrilled to have Canon expand his role at Eagle, becoming an integral part of our team in Alliance and Chadron,” said Olivia Hasenauer, Nebraska Regional Manager. “With his extensive experience in play-by-play coverage and his deep knowledge of the teams and players in Western Nebraska, Canon is the perfect fit. His grandpa, has&nbsp;ties in the Bayard area&nbsp;further enhance this seamless transition.”&nbsp;

Rath has over eight years of sports broadcasting experience and six years of radio broadcasting. Throughout his career, he has called games at the high school and collegiate level. Canon also had a once in a lifetime opportunity to call the 2020 Class D2 Football State Championship between Dundy County Stratton and Burwell for Nebraska Public Media (formerly known as NET).&nbsp;

“I’m very excited for the opportunity to become the new “Voice” of the Alliance Bulldogs and getting to know the coaches, student-athletes and community starting this fall,” said Rath. “I can’t wait to get to work and bring Bulldog athletics on KCOW radio!”&nbsp;

KCOW Radio and Panhandle Post&nbsp;are excited for this next chapter and looking to be the premier provider of coverage for the Panhandle Region.&nbsp;

“This is an exciting time not only for our dedicated audience, who passionately follow AHS sports on KCOW 1400AM/92.5FM and Panhandle Post, but also for the schools we cover. In Western Nebraska, being local and embedded in our communities is crucial,” said Hasenauer.&nbsp;“We pride ourselves on providing top-notch coverage for our young student-athletes. At Eagle, we are committed to being the premier provider of news, sports, and entertainment in the Panhandle Region.”&nbsp;

Rath graduated from the University of Nebraska at Kearney in May 2023 as a dual major in Sports Communication and Sports Management. During his 5-year tenure as a Loper, he was heavily involved with the student run radio station 91.1 KLPR, where he hosted a weekly sport show, hosted a weekly sports update and did play-by-play/color for Loper Athletics. 

He spent four years on the KLPR Sports Staff and was Sports Director for his last three years of college. He has been nominated many times at the national level for his work for Loper Athletic broadcast, his weekly sports update “Loper Update” and the longest student running show “Throwin Lopes” where he created it with fellow student Grant Tighe in 2020.&nbsp;

Rath got his start in broadcasting when he was a Junior at Kearney High School when he joined the Bearcat Sports Network, which is Kearney High School’s Striv program. Canon got his start in radio his freshman year in college when he joined Platte River Radio as a board op and producer. He would regularly produce the Doug and Daddy Show, studio engineering many sporting events, and more. Rath also hosted the "Rutts and Rivals Scoreboard Show" for two years. After a 2-year stint, Canon would join KRGI as a color analyst announcer for the St. Paul Wildcats football team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rath just recently celebrated one year with Eagle Media earlier this month. He has done work for Panhandle Post along with Sandhills Post and North Platte Post. During his free time, Rath enjoys playing golf with his grandpa, going on walks, playing pickleball and playing video games. Feel free to follow <a href="https://x.com/Canon_K9_Sports">Canon Rath on X</a> (Formerly Twitter).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718645739737.jpeg" alt="Canon Rath calling the UNK Women's basketball game in November 2022 (Courtesy Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Canon Rath calling the UNK Women's basketball game in November 2022 (Courtesy Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Panhandle Post&nbsp;Alliance, Neb. - Eagle Media, Panhandle Post and KCOW Radio are excited to welcome Canon Rath as the new “Voice” of the Alliance Bulldogs. Rath currently serves as a News Director for Eagle Media and works throughout the Nebraska Markets for North Platte Post, Sandhills Post and Panhandle Post. He will maintain his current position with this new expanded role.Last season, Rath called games for our sister market, Sandhills Post, calling local area games of the week on Flatrock 100.7. His duties included doing play-by-play for football and basketball.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We are thrilled to have Canon expand his role at Eagle, becoming an integral part of our team in Alliance and Chadron,” said Olivia Hasenauer, Nebraska Regional Manager. “With his extensive experience in play-by-play coverage and his deep knowledge of the teams and players in Western Nebraska, Canon is the perfect fit. His grandpa, has&nbsp;ties in the Bayard area&nbsp;further enhance this seamless transition.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718645909086.jpeg" alt="Canon Rath and former KLPR sport staff at the 2024 NSAA Boys State Basketball Tournament. L-R: Canon Rath, Jon Willis and Ethan McCormick (Courtesy Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Canon Rath and former KLPR sport staff at the 2024 NSAA Boys State Basketball Tournament. L-R: Canon Rath, Jon Willis and Ethan McCormick (Courtesy Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Rath has over eight years of sports broadcasting experience and six years of radio broadcasting. Throughout his career, he has called games at the high school and collegiate level. Canon also had a once in a lifetime opportunity to call the 2020 Class D2 Football State Championship between Dundy County Stratton and Burwell for Nebraska Public Media (formerly known as NET).&nbsp;“I’m very excited for the opportunity to become the new “Voice” of the Alliance Bulldogs and getting to know the coaches, student-athletes and community starting this fall,” said Rath. “I can’t wait to get to work and bring Bulldog athletics on KCOW radio!”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718646404753.jpeg" alt="L-E: Trevor Bentley and Canon Rath calling the 2020 Class D2 Football State Championship for Nebraska Public Media (formerly known as NET) (Courtesy Photo)" />
 <figcaption>L-E: Trevor Bentley and Canon Rath calling the 2020 Class D2 Football State Championship for Nebraska Public Media (formerly known as NET) (Courtesy Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>KCOW Radio and Panhandle Post&nbsp;are excited for this next chapter and looking to be the premier provider of coverage for the Panhandle Region.&nbsp;“This is an exciting time not only for our dedicated audience, who passionately follow AHS sports on KCOW 1400AM/92.5FM and Panhandle Post, but also for the schools we cover. In Western Nebraska, being local and embedded in our communities is crucial,” said Hasenauer.&nbsp;“We pride ourselves on providing top-notch coverage for our young student-athletes. At Eagle, we are committed to being the premier provider of news, sports, and entertainment in the Panhandle Region.”&nbsp;About Canon Rath&nbsp;Rath graduated from the University of Nebraska at Kearney in May 2023 as a dual major in Sports Communication and Sports Management. During his 5-year tenure as a Loper, he was heavily involved with the student run radio station 91.1 KLPR, where he hosted a weekly sport show, hosted a weekly sports update and did play-by-play/color for Loper Athletics. He spent four years on the KLPR Sports Staff and was Sports Director for his last three years of college. He has been nominated many times at the national level for his work for Loper Athletic broadcast, his weekly sports update “Loper Update” and the longest student running show “Throwin Lopes” where he created it with fellow student Grant Tighe in 2020.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718646125193.jpeg" alt="Canon Rath in New York City in March of 2020 with his IBS Award for "Best Sports Update" (Courtesy Photo)" />
 <figcaption>Canon Rath in New York City in March of 2020 with his IBS Award for "Best Sports Update" (Courtesy Photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Rath got his start in broadcasting when he was a Junior at Kearney High School when he joined the Bearcat Sports Network, which is Kearney High School’s Striv program. Canon got his start in radio his freshman year in college when he joined Platte River Radio as a board op and producer. He would regularly produce the Doug and Daddy Show, studio engineering many sporting events, and more. Rath also hosted the "Rutts and Rivals Scoreboard Show" for two years. After a 2-year stint, Canon would join KRGI as a color analyst announcer for the St. Paul Wildcats football team.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rath just recently celebrated one year with Eagle Media earlier this month. He has done work for Panhandle Post along with Sandhills Post and North Platte Post. During his free time, Rath enjoys playing golf with his grandpa, going on walks, playing pickleball and playing video games. Feel free to follow <a href="https://x.com/Canon_K9_Sports">Canon Rath on X</a> (Formerly Twitter).&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eagle Media, KCOW Radio welcomes Canon Rath as the next “Voice” of the Alliance Bulldogs

<h2>⚾ Legion Baseball Scoreboard</h2>June 9Post 22 8, Alliance JRs 7Sidney JRs 10, Gering 6Scottsbluff SRs 10, Bridgeport 2Scottsbluff SRs 12, Bridgeport 1

⚾ Legion Baseball Scoreboard

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman homered in the first inning, Gavin Stone had another strong outing and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Colorado Rockies 4-0 on Sunday.

Though much of the focus is on Yoshinobu Yamamoto's rookie season and Clayton Kershaw's comeback, Stone is putting together a solid season for the Dodgers' staff.

The rookie right-hander tossed five innings Sunday and won for the fifth time in his last seven starts.

“Usual command of the fastball. I leaned heavily on the slider today. It felt good out of my hand. I felt like they were a fastball-hitting team, so it felt good," said Stone, who struck out six while giving up only four hits and two walks.

Stone (6-2) has allowed one run or fewer in six of his seven starts since April 26. During that span, he is 5-1 and has a 1.64 ERA.

“It's been under the radar, but not lost on us his value,” manager Dave Roberts said. "Consistency and certainty is what you are getting from him now. To his credit, he is watching what his teammates are doing and then applying things fit for his arsenal."

Michael Grove, Alex Vesia and Daniel Hudson came out of the bullpen to combine for the Dodgers’ sixth shutout this season and second in five games.

Betts got things started with his fourth leadoff homer this season. Two batters later, Freeman went deep off Colorado's Austin Gomber, the eighth time the Dodgers have homered at least twice in an inning.

Freeman also scored twice and drove in two runs for the Dodgers, who have won five of six.

“I was good. We needed it," Roberts said of the early homers. “Mookie was relieved to hit it out of the ball park. Freddie has been in it for a while and for him to go deep was good for him, too.”

Gomber (1-3) came into the game sixth in the NL with a 2.76 ERA and allowed only two earned runs in four May starts. But the left-hander went a season-low three innings, and was at 75 pitches when his day ended.

Gomber allowed three runs on five hits with three walks and two strikeouts.

“Today was a day he was not locked in on his command," Rockies manager Bud Black said.

Betts connected on a slider from Gomber and put it four rows deep into the stands in the left-field corner. It was also Betts' 52nd career leadoff homer, which is one away from tying Craig Biggio for fourth all-time.

Betts has nine homers this season, but it was his first since May 17.

After Shohei Ohtani's pop out, Freeman drove a full-count fastball over the wall in center and just past the outstretched glove of leaping Colorado outfielder Brenton Doyle.

Miguel Rojas extended Los Angeles' lead to 3-0 in the third when his base hit drove in Freeman.

Freeman then gave the Dodgers more breathing room in the eighth inning with a sacrifice fly with the bases loaded to bring home Jason Heyward.

Colorado was shut out for the seventh time. Its lone threat came in the fifth inning when it had runners on second and third with two outs, but Ezequiel Tover lined out to Freeman at first base to end the inning.

“Stone had a tight, little slider. We just couldn’t muster anything against their pitching staff. Five runs in three games aren’t going to cut it," Black said.

Dodgers: 3B Max Muncy (right oblique strain) doesn't have a timetable to resume baseball activities after he felt discomfort in his rib cage while swinging the bat last week.

Rockies: Return home for a three-game set against Cincinnati. RHP Ryan Feltner (1-4, 5.46 ERA) gets the call in Monday's series opener.

Dodgers: Head back east for six games, beginning with three in Pittsburgh. RHP Tyler Glasnow (6-3, 3.04 ERA) takes the mound on Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717375783274.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES (AP) — Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman homered in the first inning, Gavin Stone had another strong outing and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Colorado Rockies 4-0 on Sunday.Though much of the focus is on Yoshinobu Yamamoto's rookie season and Clayton Kershaw's comeback, Stone is putting together a solid season for the Dodgers' staff.The rookie right-hander tossed five innings Sunday and won for the fifth time in his last seven starts.“Usual command of the fastball. I leaned heavily on the slider today. It felt good out of my hand. I felt like they were a fastball-hitting team, so it felt good," said Stone, who struck out six while giving up only four hits and two walks.Stone (6-2) has allowed one run or fewer in six of his seven starts since April 26. During that span, he is 5-1 and has a 1.64 ERA.“It's been under the radar, but not lost on us his value,” manager Dave Roberts said. "Consistency and certainty is what you are getting from him now. To his credit, he is watching what his teammates are doing and then applying things fit for his arsenal."Michael Grove, Alex Vesia and Daniel Hudson came out of the bullpen to combine for the Dodgers’ sixth shutout this season and second in five games.Betts got things started with his fourth leadoff homer this season. Two batters later, Freeman went deep off Colorado's Austin Gomber, the eighth time the Dodgers have homered at least twice in an inning.Freeman also scored twice and drove in two runs for the Dodgers, who have won five of six.“I was good. We needed it," Roberts said of the early homers. “Mookie was relieved to hit it out of the ball park. Freddie has been in it for a while and for him to go deep was good for him, too.”Gomber (1-3) came into the game sixth in the NL with a 2.76 ERA and allowed only two earned runs in four May starts. But the left-hander went a season-low three innings, and was at 75 pitches when his day ended.Gomber allowed three runs on five hits with three walks and two strikeouts.“Today was a day he was not locked in on his command," Rockies manager Bud Black said.Betts connected on a slider from Gomber and put it four rows deep into the stands in the left-field corner. It was also Betts' 52nd career leadoff homer, which is one away from tying Craig Biggio for fourth all-time.Betts has nine homers this season, but it was his first since May 17.After Shohei Ohtani's pop out, Freeman drove a full-count fastball over the wall in center and just past the outstretched glove of leaping Colorado outfielder Brenton Doyle.Miguel Rojas extended Los Angeles' lead to 3-0 in the third when his base hit drove in Freeman.Freeman then gave the Dodgers more breathing room in the eighth inning with a sacrifice fly with the bases loaded to bring home Jason Heyward.Colorado was shut out for the seventh time. Its lone threat came in the fifth inning when it had runners on second and third with two outs, but Ezequiel Tover lined out to Freeman at first base to end the inning.“Stone had a tight, little slider. We just couldn’t muster anything against their pitching staff. Five runs in three games aren’t going to cut it," Black said.TRAINER'S ROOMDodgers: 3B Max Muncy (right oblique strain) doesn't have a timetable to resume baseball activities after he felt discomfort in his rib cage while swinging the bat last week.UP NEXTRockies: Return home for a three-game set against Cincinnati. RHP Ryan Feltner (1-4, 5.46 ERA) gets the call in Monday's series opener.Dodgers: Head back east for six games, beginning with three in Pittsburgh. RHP Tyler Glasnow (6-3, 3.04 ERA) takes the mound on Tuesday.

Freeman & Betts blasts in 1st take care of Rockies early Sunday

STILLWATER, Okla. (AP) — Jac Caglianone hit a go-ahead three-run home run in the bottom of the second inning and Florida led the rest of the way as the Gators beat Nebraska 17-11 Sunday in an elimination game at the Stillwater Regional.

The Gators, who beat Nebraska (40-22) in the first round to knock the Cornhuskers into the loser's bracket, play Oklahoma State in the finals. Florida would have to beat the Cowboys twice in order to win the regional championship.

Caglianone finished 2 for 4 with a double, a home run, four RBIs and four runs. Colby Shelton went 3 for 4 with a home run and four RBIs for Florida (30-28).

The game was delayed nearly 2 hours by inclement weather with two outs and a man on second in the top of the fifth inning and Florida leading 7-4.

Caglianone hit an RBI double in Florida's four-run sixth inning and Shelton hit a three-run homer before Luke Heyman and Dale Thomas added solo shots in a six-run seventh to give the Gators a 17-6 lead.

Gabe Swansen hit a two-run home run in the top of the first and Joshua Overbeek added a two-run shot in the second to give Nebraska a 4-2 lead.

STILLWATER, Okla. (AP) — Jac Caglianone hit a go-ahead three-run home run in the bottom of the second inning and Florida led the rest of the way as the Gators beat Nebraska 17-11 Sunday in an elimination game at the Stillwater Regional.The Gators, who beat Nebraska (40-22) in the first round to knock the Cornhuskers into the loser's bracket, play Oklahoma State in the finals. Florida would have to beat the Cowboys twice in order to win the regional championship.Caglianone finished 2 for 4 with a double, a home run, four RBIs and four runs. Colby Shelton went 3 for 4 with a home run and four RBIs for Florida (30-28).The game was delayed nearly 2 hours by inclement weather with two outs and a man on second in the top of the fifth inning and Florida leading 7-4.Caglianone hit an RBI double in Florida's four-run sixth inning and Shelton hit a three-run homer before Luke Heyman and Dale Thomas added solo shots in a six-run seventh to give the Gators a 17-6 lead.Gabe Swansen hit a two-run home run in the top of the first and Joshua Overbeek added a two-run shot in the second to give Nebraska a 4-2 lead.

Season Over: Huskers hammered 17-11 ending NCAA Regionals in Stillwater

The Chadron American Legion Post 12 Seniors baseball team won both of its games during the first day of the Wood Bat Tournament on Saturday at Maurice Horse Field on North Main Street.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Seniors initially defeated Martin, S.D., 8-0 as Chadron pitcher Creighton Ryan gave up just two hits and struck out nine while hurling all six innings.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chadron got nine hits, including two each by Ryan and Alex Fisher.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The second game against Valentine had a dramatic ending.&nbsp; The score was tied at 7-7 in the bottom of the sixth when Edwin Fills Pipe hit a 3-run, walk-off homer over the centerfield fence for a 10-7 victory.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fills Pipe, who also hit a solo homer in the first game, attends high school in Oklahoma, but has relatives at Pine Ridge and played with the Gordon-Rushville Regulators last summers.&nbsp; Since the Regulators don’t have enough players for a Seniors’ team this year, Fills Pipe along with Bronson Freeseman and Logan Slama are playing for Chadron this summer.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Caden Buskirk had three of Chadron’s six hits in the game against Valentine and also was the winning pitcher after taking the mound in the top of the sixth in relief of Slama.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chadron and Valentine will meet again at 6 o’clock tonight (Sunday) in the Wood Bat Tourney’s final game.&nbsp; The Seniors also will be at home Monday night to host North Platte in a double-header.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716574746517.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By: Con MarshallThe Chadron American Legion Post 12 Seniors baseball team won both of its games during the first day of the Wood Bat Tournament on Saturday at Maurice Horse Field on North Main Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Seniors initially defeated Martin, S.D., 8-0 as Chadron pitcher Creighton Ryan gave up just two hits and struck out nine while hurling all six innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chadron got nine hits, including two each by Ryan and Alex Fisher.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The second game against Valentine had a dramatic ending.&nbsp; The score was tied at 7-7 in the bottom of the sixth when Edwin Fills Pipe hit a 3-run, walk-off homer over the centerfield fence for a 10-7 victory.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fills Pipe, who also hit a solo homer in the first game, attends high school in Oklahoma, but has relatives at Pine Ridge and played with the Gordon-Rushville Regulators last summers.&nbsp; Since the Regulators don’t have enough players for a Seniors’ team this year, Fills Pipe along with Bronson Freeseman and Logan Slama are playing for Chadron this summer.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Caden Buskirk had three of Chadron’s six hits in the game against Valentine and also was the winning pitcher after taking the mound in the top of the sixth in relief of Slama.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chadron and Valentine will meet again at 6 o’clock tonight (Sunday) in the Wood Bat Tourney’s final game.&nbsp; The Seniors also will be at home Monday night to host North Platte in a double-header.

Chadron Seniors take two Saturday in wood bat tournament

Stillwater, Ok - Gabe Swansen homered twice for the Huskers, as they kept their season alive with a 7-5 victory over Niagara on Saturday afternoon at O’ Brate Stadium.

Nebraska (40-21) totaled seven runs on eight hits with two errors, while Niagara (38-17) scored five runs on seven hits and an error.

The Huskers reached the 40-win mark for the first time since 2014 and the 19th time in program history.

Swansen finished 2-for-5 with a pair of home runs and now has an extra-base hit in seven of Nebraska’s eight postseason games. It marked NU’s first multi-homer game in a regional since Jake Opitz against Eastern Illinois in the 2008 Lincoln Regional.&nbsp;

Case Sanderson drove in a team-high four runs for the Huskers including a three-run homer in the third inning. Joshua Overbeek reached twice in the leadoff spot, while Tyler Stone and Rhett Stokes each added doubles. Dylan Carey also recorded two knocks and was hit by a pitch.&nbsp;

Mason McConnaughey improved to 9-3 this season with six innings of work for Nebraska, allowing five earned runs on five hits with 10 strikeouts and only one walk.

It marked his second straight double-digit strikeout performance and his 10 punchouts were the most by an NU pitcher in a regional since Matt Waldron (11) in the 2019 Stillwater Regional. Over his last four starts, McConaughey has punched out 36 batters while issuing just eight walks.

Additionally, Sears (101) and McConnaughey (91) became the first Husker pitching duo since at least 1985 to record 90-plus strikeouts in a single season. They are also the first NU duo with nine-or-more wins in a season since Tony Watson (10) and Johnny Dorn (9) in 2006.

Jalen Worthley entered in the seventh frame and retired nine of 11 batters faced across the final three innings to give the southpaw his team-high fifth save of the season.

Niagara jumped out to an early 3-0 lead after a hit batter, single and three-run home run from Eric Rataczak put the Purple Eagles in front. They added another run in the second inning after a double and a pair of flyouts put the Huskers in a four-run hole.

After going quietly in the first two frames, Carey began the third with a single up the middle and advanced to second on Riley Silva’s 17th sacrifice bunt of the season. Overbeek walked on four pitches to give the Huskers their runners on first and second with one out.&nbsp;

Sanderson then sent an 0-1 pitch into the left-field bleachers to trim the Niagara lead to 4-3. The ball traveled 379 feet and marked the freshman’s third long ball of the season for the Big Red.

Nebraska threatened again in the fourth inning, as Stokes doubled after a 105-mph line drive ricocheted off the pitcher and into the outfield. He stole third base but was cut down at the plate on a slow roller to the third baseman to keep the deficit at one.

On the mound, McConnaughey held steady as he struck out five of six batters faced across the third and fourth innings to give him eight punchouts on the afternoon.

The Huskers captured their first lead of the afternoon in the fifth inning, as Overbeek tripled to lead off the inning and was driven in on Sanderson’s RBI sacrifice fly. Swansen put NU in front with a 382-foot blast to left field for his second homer in as many days.

Niagara responded with a solo home run on the first pitch in the bottom of the fifth to knot the game at five.&nbsp;

Stone began the sixth frame with a double, before an errant throw by Niagara’s pitcher on Stokes’ bunt attempt gave the Huskers a 6-5 advantage. The Huskers managed to load the bases on a hit batter and intentional walk, but a strikeout ended the inning with NU ahead by just one.

Stillwater, Ok - Gabe Swansen homered twice for the Huskers, as they kept their season alive with a 7-5 victory over Niagara on Saturday afternoon at O’ Brate Stadium.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717337350704.jpeg" alt="Huskers move on to play Florida in elimination game at 1pm CT/Noon MT in Stillwater, Oklahoma on Sunday. Photo Credit-Nebraska Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Huskers move on to play Florida in elimination game at 1pm CT/Noon MT in Stillwater, Oklahoma on Sunday. Photo Credit-Nebraska Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska (40-21) totaled seven runs on eight hits with two errors, while Niagara (38-17) scored five runs on seven hits and an error.The Huskers reached the 40-win mark for the first time since 2014 and the 19th time in program history.Swansen finished 2-for-5 with a pair of home runs and now has an extra-base hit in seven of Nebraska’s eight postseason games. It marked NU’s first multi-homer game in a regional since Jake Opitz against Eastern Illinois in the 2008 Lincoln Regional.&nbsp;Case Sanderson drove in a team-high four runs for the Huskers including a three-run homer in the third inning. Joshua Overbeek reached twice in the leadoff spot, while Tyler Stone and Rhett Stokes each added doubles. Dylan Carey also recorded two knocks and was hit by a pitch.&nbsp;Mason McConnaughey improved to 9-3 this season with six innings of work for Nebraska, allowing five earned runs on five hits with 10 strikeouts and only one walk.It marked his second straight double-digit strikeout performance and his 10 punchouts were the most by an NU pitcher in a regional since Matt Waldron (11) in the 2019 Stillwater Regional. Over his last four starts, McConaughey has punched out 36 batters while issuing just eight walks.Additionally, Sears (101) and McConnaughey (91) became the first Husker pitching duo since at least 1985 to record 90-plus strikeouts in a single season. They are also the first NU duo with nine-or-more wins in a season since Tony Watson (10) and Johnny Dorn (9) in 2006.Jalen Worthley entered in the seventh frame and retired nine of 11 batters faced across the final three innings to give the southpaw his team-high fifth save of the season.Niagara jumped out to an early 3-0 lead after a hit batter, single and three-run home run from Eric Rataczak put the Purple Eagles in front. They added another run in the second inning after a double and a pair of flyouts put the Huskers in a four-run hole.After going quietly in the first two frames, Carey began the third with a single up the middle and advanced to second on Riley Silva’s 17th sacrifice bunt of the season. Overbeek walked on four pitches to give the Huskers their runners on first and second with one out.&nbsp;Sanderson then sent an 0-1 pitch into the left-field bleachers to trim the Niagara lead to 4-3. The ball traveled 379 feet and marked the freshman’s third long ball of the season for the Big Red.Nebraska threatened again in the fourth inning, as Stokes doubled after a 105-mph line drive ricocheted off the pitcher and into the outfield. He stole third base but was cut down at the plate on a slow roller to the third baseman to keep the deficit at one.On the mound, McConnaughey held steady as he struck out five of six batters faced across the third and fourth innings to give him eight punchouts on the afternoon.The Huskers captured their first lead of the afternoon in the fifth inning, as Overbeek tripled to lead off the inning and was driven in on Sanderson’s RBI sacrifice fly. Swansen put NU in front with a 382-foot blast to left field for his second homer in as many days.Niagara responded with a solo home run on the first pitch in the bottom of the fifth to knot the game at five.&nbsp;Stone began the sixth frame with a double, before an errant throw by Niagara’s pitcher on Stokes’ bunt attempt gave the Huskers a 6-5 advantage. The Huskers managed to load the bases on a hit batter and intentional walk, but a strikeout ended the inning with NU ahead by just one.McConnaughey recorded his 10th strikeout after a two-out single to end the sixth, before Swansen homered for the second time to left-center field in the seventh to put Nebraska in front 7-5. Worthley entered in the bottom of the seventh and retired the side in order on just eight pitches.Nebraska threatened once again in the eighth, as Carey led off with a single and moved to second on Silva’s 18th sacrifice bunt, the most in Division I. However, a strikeout and flyout kept the Huskers off the board to end the inning.Worthley worked around a double in the eighth frame and single in the ninth inning to ward off a Purple Eagles’ comeback and clinch a 7-5 victory.Nebraska will take on the loser of Oklahoma State/Florida tomorrow at 1 p.m. in an elimination game at O’ Brate Stadium. Sunday’s action can be seen on ESPN+, while fans can listen to Ben McLaughlin and Dave Gustafson call the action on the Huskers Radio Network via KCOW-AM 1400/92.5 FM in Alliance or Huskers.com online.