Commentary by Harold Welter, WKVI Sportsline Live
If you have a candidate for our "Tyler Roth/WKVI Athlete of the Week", send it to with details on why you think the athlete is deserving.
1/6/10
Area Girls Scoring Leaders: (through 1/6/10)
Gwen Zehner (Culver): 250 points; 20.8ppg; 12 games
Gabriele Minix (OD): 262 points; 20.1ppg; 13 games
Kylee Shipley (CMA): 188 points; 17.0ppg; 11 games
Andrijana Cvitkovic (CMA): 192 points; 16.0ppg; 12 games
Jacy Borlik (John Glenn): 187 points; 15.5ppg; 12 games
Jordan Brandt (Winamac): 181 points; 15.0ppg; 12 games
Allie DeFries (Winamac): 179 points; 14.9ppg; 12 games
Justyne Kranenburg (OD): 194 points; 14.9ppg; 13 games
Patrice McBee (Culver): 42 points; 14.0ppg; 3 games
Stephanie Balon (South Central): 137 points; 13.7ppg; 10 games
Kenley Sanchez (North Judson): 157 points; 12.0ppg; 13 games
Savanna Bruski (John Glenn): 141 points; 11.7ppg; 12 games
Jordann Frasure (North Judson): 144 points; 11.0ppg; 13 games
Katie Bekavac (South Central): 95 points; 10.5ppg; 9 games
Sarah Redweik (Winamac): 95 points; 9.5ppg; 10 games
Elisabeth Caudill (Knox): 104 points; 9.4ppg; 11 games
Janyl Zachary (Knox): 113 points; 9.4ppg; 12 games
Kelsey Minix (OD): 112 points; 9.3ppg; 7 games
Brittany Tetzloff (Knox): 110 points; 9.1ppg; 12 games
Paige Wagner (Knox): 104 points; 8.6ppg; 12 games
Kierstynn Combs (Knox): 101 points; 8.4ppg; 12 games
Whitney Sanders (Culver): 101 points; 8.4; 12 games
Boys Area Scoring Leaders (through 1/6/10)
Zoe Bauer (Culver): 174 points; 21.7ppg; 8 games
Jake Kitchell (South Central): 172 points; 21.5ppg; 8 games
Zac Richie (OD): 139 points; 19.8ppg; 7 games
Kyle Sanders (Knox): 151 points; 18.8ppg; 8 games
Matt Richie (OD): 118 points; 16.8ppg; 7 games
John Eckert (North Judson): 109 points; 15.5ppg; 7 games
Eric Baum (South Central): 100 points; 14.2ppg; 7 games
Matt Walker (South Central): 56 points; 14ppg; 4 games
Seth Culver (LaCrosse): 103 points; 12.8ppg; 8 games
Jermaine Meyers (CMA): 136 points; 13.6ppg; 10 games
Andrew Alexander (John Glenn): 77 points; 12.8ppg; 6 games
Josh Risner (Knox): 101 points; 12.6ppg; 8 games
Juwan Brescacin (CMA): 125 points; 12.5ppg; 10 games
Ryan Pahl (LaCrosse): 100 points; 12.5ppg; 8 games
Michael Baughman (OD): 80 points; 11.4ppg; 7 games
Lance Kruger (West Central): 101 points; 11.2ppg; 9 games
Alex Chrzan (West Central): 99 points; 11.0ppg; 9 games
Jake Kosinski (John Glenn): 66 points; 11.0ppg; 6 games
Kendall Hochstedler (North Judson): 77 points; 11.0ppg; 7 games
Nick Hofferth (OD): 70 points; 10ppg; 7 games
Lonnie Shetler (John Glenn): 57 points; 9.5ppg; 6 games
Travis Britt (CMA): 93 points; 9.3ppg; 10 games
Nathan Hankins (North Judson): 63 points; 9.0ppg; 7 games
Andrew Malott (Winamac): 79 points; 8.7ppg; 9 games
Jordan Guse (LaCrosse): 69 points; 8.6ppg; 8 games
Trevor Nelson (West Central): 57 points; 8.1ppg; 7 games
Chandler Hochstedler (North Judson): 56 points; 8.0ppg; 7 games
1/2/10
All-Decade Team(boys)
2000-2009
Culver: Kody Snyder 2007
Glenn: Chris Adkins 2001; Korey Pulluaim 2004
Knox: Brandon Webb 2000; Kyle Keiper 2004
LaCrosse: Skyler Young 2002
North Judson: Adam Richie 2006
Oregon-Davis: Colin Miller 2000; Brandon Johnston 2007
South Central: Greg Boo 2002
West Central: Cody Mounts 2005
Winamac: Jason Shidler 2001
All-Decade Team(girls)
2000-2009
Culver: Stacy Stevens 2003
Glenn: Becca Morris 2007
Knox: Mollie Taulbee 2007
Lacrosse: Crystal Pfledderer 2007
North Judson: Melinda Bunkowfst 2002; Whitney Cole 2005
Oregon-Davis: Britta Johnson 2003; Aubrey Minix 2009
South Central: Mallory Gorski 2006
West Central: Kayley Cervenka 2005
Winamac: Kara Crawford 2007; Erika Redweik 2009
12/21/09
Area Girls Scoring Leaders: (through 12/19/09)
Gwen Zehner (Culver): 213 points; 21.3ppg; 10 games
Gabriele Minix (OD): 156 points; 19.5ppg; 8 games
Kylee Shipley (CMA): 188 points; 17.0ppg; 11 games
Jacy Borlik (John Glenn): 181 points; 16.4ppg; 11 games
Andrijana Cvitkovic (CMA): 192 points; 16.0ppg; 12 games
Jordan Brandt (Winamac): 181 points; 15.0ppg; 12 games
Allie DeFries (Winamac): 179 points; 14.9ppg; 12 games
Justyne Kranenburg (OD): 112 points; 14.0ppg; 8 games
Patrice McBee (Culver): 42 points; 14.0ppg; 3 games
Stephanie Balon (South Central): 102 points; 12.7ppg; 8 games
Kenley Sanchez (North Judson): 113 points; 12.5ppg; 9 games
Jordann Frasure (North Judson): 109 points; 12.1ppg; 9 games
Savanna Bruski (John Glenn): 131 points; 11.9ppg; 11 games
Elisabeth Caudill (Knox): 100 points; 10.0ppg; 10 games
Brittany Tetzloff (Knox): 108 points; 9.8ppg; 11 games
Katie Bekavac (South Central): 69 points; 9.8ppg; 7 games
Sarah Redweik (Winamac): 95 points; 9.5ppg; 10 games
Janyl Zachary (Knox): 99 points; 9.0ppg; 11 games
Kelsey Minix (OD): 62 points; 8.8ppg; 7 games
Paige Wagner (Knox): 95 points; 8.6ppg; 11 games
Kierstynn Combs (Knox): 92 points; 8.3ppg; 11 games
Paydin Barrett (North Judson): 75 points; 8.3ppg; 9 games
Boys Area Scoring Leaders (through 12/19/09)
Zoe Bauer (Culver): 137 points; 22.8ppg; 6 games
Jake Kitchell (South Central): 100 points; 20.0ppg; 5 games
Zac Richie (OD): 139 points; 19.8ppg; 7 games
Kyle Sanders (Knox): 88 points; 17.6ppg; 5 games
Matt Richie (OD): 118 points; 16.8ppg; 7 games
Jermaine Meyers (CMA): 90 points; 15.0ppg; 6 games
Eric Baum (South Central): 65 points; 13.0ppg; 5 games
Josh Risner (Knox): 65 points; 13.0ppg; 5 games
Andrew Alexander (John Glenn): 77 points; 12.8ppg; 6 games
Juwan Brescacin (CMA): 75 points; 12.5ppg; 6 games
John Eckert (North Judson): 49 points; 12.2ppg; 4 games
Ryan Pahl (LaCrosse): 73 points; 12.1ppg; 6 games
Seth Culver (LaCrosse): 73 points; 12.1ppg; 6 games
Michael Baughman (OD): 80 points; 11.4ppg; 7 games
Matt Walker (South Central): 56 points; 11.2ppg; 5 games
Jake Kosinski (John Glenn): 66 points; 11.0ppg; 6 games
Kendall Hochstedler (North Judson): 43 points; 10.7ppg; 4 games
Lance Kruger (West Central): 75 points; 10.7ppg; 7 games
Alex Chrzan (West Central): 73 points; 10.4ppg; 7 games
Nick Hofferth (OD): 70 points; 10ppg; 7 games
Nathan Hankins (North Judson): 39 points; 9.7ppg; 4 games
Lonnie Shetler (John Glenn): 57 points; 9.5ppg; 6 games
Andrew Frasure (North Judson): 37 points; 9.2ppg; 4 games
Chandler Hochstedler (North Judson): 36 points; 9.0ppg; 4 games
Jordan Guse (LaCrosse): 53 points; 8.8ppg; 6 games
Trevor Nelson (West Central): 43 points; 8.6ppg; 5 games
12/20/09
Jordan Brandt broke a long-standing record for Winamac Girls Basketball Saturday afternoon when she dished out her 296th assist, breaking the old record of 295. The 4-year starter for Coach Jim Swaney also hit 20 points of her own as the Lady Warriors won their 4th Midwest Conference game 73-37 over North White. The young Lady is amazing to watch as she flies all over the court, and she's closing in on the 1,000 career point mark as well, needing only 67 points to surpass that mark.
12/18/09
Area Coaching Leaders (through 12/17/09)
Boys
- 1. Todd Boldry-Knox (12 years): 171-81 .678
- 2. Travis Hannah-John Glenn (11 years): 114-116 .495
- 3. John Steinhilber-South Central (12 years): 106-139 .432
- 4. Bryan Heimlich-West Central (7 years): 80-59 .575
- 5. Ryan Bales-NJSP (5 years): 48-45 .516
- 6. Alan Huss-CMA (4years): 43-34 .558
- 7. Bill Ball-Winamac (3 years): 13-36 .265
- 8. Kyle Elliot-Culver (2 years): 7-18 .280
- 10. Matt Richie-OD (2 years): 3-23 .115
- 9. Rob Walker-LaCrosse (1 year): 1-3 .250
Girls
- Jim Swaney-Winamac (26 years): 421-140 .750
- Terry Minix-OD (17 years): 215-125 .632
- Dan Hutton-John Glenn (12 years): 151-104 .592
- Dan Huizenga-Knox (8 years): 92-73 .557
- John Hampton-NJSP (7 years): 91-51 .640
- Gary Christlieb-CGA (7 years): 73-68 .517
- Gina Hierlmeier-West Central (4 years): 49-28 .636
- Gary DeSmet-LaCrosse (5 years): 22-68 .244
- Ashli Faulkner-Culver (3 years): 18-33 .352
- Rick Budka-South Central (2 years): 6-22 .214
Team Records:
Boys
- CMA- 3-3
- John Glenn- 3-2
- Knox- 2-2
- South Central- 2-2
- West Central- 2-3
- Culver- 1-3
- LaCrosse- 1-3
- NJSP- 1-2
- OD- 1-5
- Winamac- 1-4
Girls
- West Central- 8-2
- Winamac- 8-3
- O-D- 7-1
- John Glenn- 7-2
- CGA- 7-4
- Knox- 6-3
- Culver- 5-4
- NJSP-4-5
- South Central- 2-6
- LaCrosse- 0-9
12/15/09
Area Girls Scoring Leaders: (through 12/12/09)
Gwen Zehner (Culver): 202 points; 22.4ppg; 9 games
Gabriele Minix (OD): 143 points; 20.4ppg; 7 games
Kylee Shipley (CMA): 141 points; 17.6ppg; 8 games
Jacy Borlik (John Glenn): 147 points; 16.3ppg; 9 games
Andrijana Cvitkovic (CMA): 140 points; 15.5ppg; 9 games
Allie DeFries (Winamac): 146 points; 14.6ppg; 10 games
Jordan Brandt (Winamac): 141 points; 14.1ppg; 10 game
Justyne Kranenburg (OD): 99 points; 14.1ppg; 7 games
Patrice McBee (Culver): 42 points; 14.0ppg; 3 games
Stephanie Balon (South Central): 95 points; 13.5ppg; 7 games
Kenley Sanchez (North Judson): 95 points; 13.5ppg; 7 games
Jordann Frasure (North Judson): 82 points; 11.7ppg; 7 games
Katie Bekavac (South Central): 65 points; 10.8ppg; 6 games
Elisabeth Caudill (Knox): 86 points; 10.7ppg; 8 games
Savanna Bruski (John Glenn): 95 points; 10.5ppg; 9 games
Brittany Tetzloff (Knox): 92 points; 10.2ppg; 9 games
Sarah Redweik (Winamac): 76 points; 9.5ppg; 8 games
Paydin Barrett (North Judson): 65 points; 9.2ppg; 7 games
Janyl Zachary (Knox): 80 points; 8.8ppg; 9 games
Kierstynn Combs (Knox): 78 points; 8.6ppg; 9 games
Paige Wagner (Knox): 77 points; 8.5ppg; 7 games
Kelsey Minix (OD): 49 points; 8.1ppg; 6 games
Kim Podell (John Glenn): 57 points; 8.1ppg; 7 games
Nicole Carnegie (Culver): 72 points; 8.0ppg; 9 games
Boys Area Scoring Leaders (through 12/12/09)
Zoe Bauer (Culver): 103 points; 25.7ppg; 4 games
Zac Richie (OD): 99 points; 19.ppg; 5 games
Matt Richie (OD): 84 points; 16.8ppg; 5 games
Kyle Sanders (Knox): 63 points; 15.7ppg; 4 games
Jermaine Meyers (CMA): 90 points; 15.0ppg; 6 games
Jake Kitchell (South Central): 44 points; 14.6ppg; 3 games
Lonnie Shetler (John Glenn): 57 points; 14.2ppg; 4 games
John Eckert (North Judson): 42 points; 14.0ppg; 3 games
Seth Culver (LaCrosse): 56 points; 14.0ppg; 4 games
Matt Walker (South Central): 56 points; 14.0ppg; 4 games
Andrew Alexander (John Glenn): 54 points; 13.5ppg; 4 games
Michael Baughman (OD): 65 points; 13.0ppg; 5 games
Eric Baum (South Central): 51 points; 12.7ppg; 4 games
Juwan Brescacin (CMA): 75 points; 12.5ppg; 6 games
Ryan Pahl (LaCrosse): 48 points; 12.0ppg; 4 games
Josh Risner (Knox): 47 points; 11.7ppg; 4 games
Lance Kruger (West Central): 57 points; 11.4ppg; 5 games
Trevor Nelson West Central): 31 points; 10.3ppg; 3 games
Kendall Hochstedler (North Judson): 30 points; 10.0ppg; 3 games
Nathan Hankins (North Judson): 24 points; 9.6ppg; 3 games
Jordan Guse (LaCrosse): 37 points; 9.2ppg; 4 games
Andrew Frasure (North Judson): 27 points; 9.0ppg; 3 games
Jake Kosinski (John Glenn): 35 points; 8.7ppg; 4 games
Dillon Steininger (LaCrosse): 26 points; 8.6ppg; 3 games
Alan Baum (South Central): 32 points; 8.0ppg; 4 games
Chandler Hochstedler (North Judson): 24 points; 8.0ppg; 3 games
12/14/09
Area Coaching Leaders (through 12/12/09)
Boys
- 1. Todd Boldry-Knox (12 years): 171-81 .678
- 2. Travis Hannah-John Glenn (11 years): 113-116 .493
- 3. John Steinhilber-South Central (12 years): 106-139 .432
- 4. Bryan Heimlich-West Central (7 years): 80-59 .575
- 5. Ryan Bales-NJSP (5 years): 48-45 .516
- 6. Alan Huss-CMA (4years): 43-34 .558
- 7. Bill Ball-Winamac (3 years): 13-36 .265
- 8. Kyle Elliot-Culver (2 years): 7-18 .280
- 10. Matt Richie-OD (2 years): 3-22 .120
- 9. Rob Walker-LaCrosse (1 year): 1-3 .250
Girls
- Jim Swaney-Winamac (26 years): 420-140 .750
- Terry Minix-OD (17 years): 214-125 .631
- Dan Hutton-John Glenn (12 years): 151-104 .592
- Dan Huizenga-Knox (8 years): 92-73 .557
- John Hampton-NJSP (7 years): 90-51 .638
- Gary Christlieb-CGA (7 years): 73-67 .521
- Gina Hierlmeier-West Central (4 years): 48-28 .631
- Gary DeSmet-LaCrosse (5 years): 22-67 .247
- Ashli Faulkner-Culver (3 years): 18-33 .352
- Rick Budka-South Central (2 years): 6-21 .230
Team Records:
Boys
- CMA- 3-3
- John Glenn- 2-2
- Knox- 2-2
- South Central- 2-2
- West Central- 2-3
- Culver- 1-3
- LaCrosse- 1-3
- NJSP- 1-2
- OD- 1-4
- Winamac- 1-4
Girls
- John Glenn- 7-2
- Winamac- 7-3
- CGA- 6-3
- Knox- 6-3
- O-D- 6-1
- West Central- 6-2
- Culver- 5-4
- NJSP-3-4
- South Central- 2-5
- LaCrosse- 0-8
12/12/09
Today marks a very sad anniversary…it was December 12, 2008, that we lost Ashley Derrickson, the North Judson-San Pierre high school basketball player whose promising career never got off the ground after she was diagnosed with cancer in her Freshman year. Everyone in the North Judson community recognized that Ashley had the potential to become the best inside player the Lady Jays had ever had…but it wasn’t to be after the diagnosis came in December of 2004. While the basketball legacy never became a reality…a far more important legacy was born that affected far more than the Lady Jay basketball team…it affected the entire
Ashley was a remarkable young lady who always thought of others first…such as when she raised money to help her new-found friend Amanda Kovacs in her battle with cancer. Amanda joined Ashley in Heaven earlier this year.
Throughout her battle with cancer, Ashley kept an upbeat attitude and flashed that dazzling smile so often one forgot that she was in a battle with that dreaded disease. And, it was Ashley who helped inspire so many people to contribute to the Coaches vs Cancer Fund that was highlighted by the Knox Girls basketball team in their pink uniforms that led the entire State and most of the Nation in contributions to that Charitable effort.
Ashley lives on in many ways…one of the small ways that she is remembered is in our “Ashley Derrickson/5 Star Player of the Game” that we name after every game we broadcast.
The most important part of Ashley’s too-short life was that her faith in Jesus Christ never failed. Her favorite scripture was from II Timothy 4:7, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the Faith”.
Of course Ashley will always live in the hearts of those of us who knew and loved her.
I was privileged to be asked by Ashley’s family to speak at her funeral and I reminded those gathered that the greatest thing we could say about this remarkable young lady was that she “Kept the Faith, Fans”!
12/11/09
Area Coaching Leaders (through 12/10/09)
Boys
- Todd Boldry-Knox (12 years): 170-81 .677
- Travis Hannah-John Glenn (11 years): 113-134 .457
- John Steinhilber-South Central (12 years): 105-138 .432
- Bryan Heimlich-West Central (7 years): 79-58 .576
- Ryan Bales-NJSP (5 years): 47-45 .510
- Alan Huss-CMA (4years): 43-33 .565
- Bill Ball-Winamac (3 years): 13-35 .270
- Kyle Elliot-Culver (2 years): 7-17 .411
- Matt Richie-OD (2 years): 2-22 .083
- Rob Walker-LaCrosse (1 year): 1-2 .333
Girls
- Jim Swaney-Winamac (26 years): 419-140 .749
- Terry Minix-OD (17 years): 213-125 .630
- Dan Hutton-John Glenn (12 years): 151-103 .594
- Dan Huizenga-Knox (8 years): 91-72 .558
- John Hampton-NJSP (7 years): 89-51 .635
- Gary Christlieb-CGA (7 years): 72-67 .517
- Gina Hierlmeier-West Central (4 years): 47-28 .626
- Gary DeSmet-LaCrosse (5 years): 22-67 .247
- Ashli Faulkner-Culver (3 years): 18-32 .360
- Rick Budka-South Central (2 years): 6-21 .230
Team Records: Through 12/10/09
Boys
- CMA- 3-2
- South Central- 1-1
- Culver- 1-2
- John Glenn- 1-2
- Knox- 1-2
- LaCrosse- 1-2
- West Central- 1-2
- Winamac- 1-3
- NJSP- 0-2
- OD- 0-4
Girls
- John Glenn- 7-1
- Winamac- 6-3
- O-D- 5-1
- Knox- 5-2
- West Central- 5-2
- Culver- 5-3
- CGA- 5-3
- NJSP-2-4
- South Central- 2-5
- LaCrosse- 0-8
Area Girls Scoring Leaders: Through 12/10/09
Gwen Zehner (Culver): 181 points; 22.6ppg; 8 games
Gabriele Minix (OD): 111 points; 18.5ppg; 6 games
Kylee Shipley (CMA): 120 points; 17.1ppg; 7 games
Jacy Borlik (John Glenn): 131 points; 16.3ppg; 8 games
Andrijana Cvitkovic (CMA): 125 points; 15.6ppg; 8 games
Justyne Kranenburg (OD): 94 points; 15.6ppg; 6 games
Allie DeFries (Winamac): 134 points; 14.8ppg; 9 games
Patrice McBee (Culver): 42 points; 14.0ppg; 3 games
Stephanie Balon (South Central): 95 points; 13.5ppg; 7 games
Jordan Brandt (Winamac): 121 points; 13.4ppg; 9 games
Kenley Sanchez (North Judson): 76 points; 12.6ppg; 6 games
Savanna Bruski (John Glenn): 93 points; 11.6ppg; 8 games
Katie Bekavac (South Central): 65 points; 10.8ppg; 6 games
Elisabeth Caudill (Knox): 62 points; 10.3ppg; 6 games
Paydin Barrett (North Judson): 59 points; 9.8ppg; 6 games
Sarah Redweik (Winamac): 69 points; 9.8ppg; 7 games
Kierstynn Combs (Knox): 66 points; 9.4ppg; 7 games
Jordann Frasure (North Judson): 56 points; 9.3ppg; 6 games
Brittany Tetzloff (Knox): 65 points; 9.2ppg; 7 games
Paige Wagner (Knox): 65 points; 9.2ppg; 7 games
Janyl Zachary (Knox): 64 points; 9.1ppg; 7 games
Kim Podell (John Glenn): 55 points; 9.1ppg; 6 games
Kelsey Minix (OD): 45 points; 9.0ppg; 5 games
Meagan Elliott (LaCrosse): 56 points; 8.0ppg; 7 games
Rylie Pfledderer (West Central): 56 points; 8.0ppg; 7 games
Boys Area Scoring Leaders Through 12/10/09
Zoe Bauer (Culver): 72 points; 24.0ppg; 3 games
Zac Richie (OD): 80 points; 20.0ppg; 4 games
Matt Richie (OD): 73 points; 18.2ppg; 4 games
Jermaine Meyers (CMA): 81 points; 16.2ppg; 5 games
Kyle Sanders (Knox): 48 points; 16.0ppg; 3 games
Andrew Alexander (John Glenn): 47 points; 15.6ppg; 3 games
Jake Kitchell (South Central): 27 points; 13.5ppg; 2 games
Lonnie Shetler (John Glenn): 40 points; 13.3ppg; 3 games
Michael Baughman (OD): 37 points; 12.3ppg; 3 games
Josh Risner (Knox): 37 points; 12.3ppg; 3 games
John Eckert (North Judson): 24 points; 12.0ppg; 2 games
Eric Baum (South Central): 23 points; 11.5ppg; 2 games
Jordan Guse (LaCrosse): 34 points; 11.3ppg; 3 games
Lance Kruger (West Central): 34 points; 11.3ppg; 3 games
Alan Baum (South Central): 21 points; 10.5ppg; 2 games
Jake Kosinski (John Glenn): 31 points; 10.3ppg; 3 games
Ryan Pahl (LaCrosse): 31 points; 10.3ppg; 3 games
Kendall Hochstedler (North Judson): 20 points; 10.0ppg; 2 games
Matt Walker (South Central): 20 points; 10.0ppg; 2 games
Seth Culver (LaCrosse): 29 points; 9.6ppg; 3 games
Dillon Steininger (LaCrosse): 26 points; 8.6ppg; 3 games
Andrew Frasure (North Judson): 17 points; 8.5ppg; 2 games
Nathan Hankins (North Judson): 17 points; 8.5ppg; 2 games
Andrew Malott (Winamac): 32 points; 8.0ppg; 4 games
Dominick Beehler (LaCrosse): 24 points; 8.0ppg; 3 games
12/10/09
In Girls Varsity basketball Wednesday night the Culver Girls Academy Eagles won the Culver city championship by beating Culver Community 67--59 in OT. Cav's were down 50-38 with 5:32 left before going on a 19-7 run to tie it and send it in to overtime.
It was a tough night for the Lady Cav's in more ways than one as The news out of Culver on the status of 6-3 Junior Patrice McBee, a key player in the Lady Cavaliers fast start this season is not encouraging. Result of an MRI received Wednesday apparently showed not only that her left shoulder was dislocated, but that there could have been muscle damage as well. That probably means surgery, but it will be up to Patrice and her family to determine when that might take place. Recovery from surgery could take 4 months or more. Surgery at the end of the basketball season would give time for the shoulder to heal before her Senior year. While it would be great to have her back to help with the second half of the season, we wish her the best whatever decision she and her family may make.
12/9/09
Area Girls Scoring Leaders: Through December 8th
Gwen Zehner (Culver): 160 points; 22.8ppg; 7 games
Gabriele Minix (OD): 111 points; 18.5ppg; 6 games
Kylee Shipley (CGA): 99 points; 16.5ppg; 6 games
Jacy Borlik (John Glenn): 131 points; 16.3ppg; 8 games
Justyne Kranenburg (OD): 94 points; 15.6ppg; 6 games
Andrijana Cvitkovic (CGA): 109 points; 15.5ppg; 7 games
Allie DeFries (Winamac): 121 points; 15.1ppg; 8 games
Patrice McBee (Culver): 42 points; 14.0ppg; 3 games
Stephanie Balon (South Central): 81 points; 13.5ppg; 6 games
Jordan Brandt (Winamac): 101 points; 12.6ppg; 8 games
Kenley Sanchez (North Judson): 76 points; 12.6ppg; 6 games
Savanna Bruski (John Glenn): 93 points; 11.6ppg; 8 games
Katie Bekavac (South Central): 57 points; 11.4ppg; 5 games
Elisabeth Caudill (Knox): 62 points; 10.3ppg; 6 games
Paydin Barrett (North Judson): 59 points; 9.8ppg; 6 games
Sarah Redweik (Winamac): 58 points; 9.6ppg; 6 games
Kierstynn Combs (Knox): 66 points; 9.4ppg; 7 games
Jordann Frasure (North Judson): 56 points; 9.3ppg; 6 games
Brittany Tetzloff (Knox): 65 points; 9.2ppg; 7 games
Paige Wagner (Knox): 65 points; 9.2ppg; 7 games
Janyl Zachary (Knox): 64 points; 9.1ppg; 7 games
Kim Podell (John Glenn): 55 points; 9.1ppg; 6 games
Kelsey Minix (OD): 45 points; 9.0ppg; 5 games
Lauren Turner (LaCrosse): 49 points; 8.1ppg; 6 games
Rylie Pfledderer (West Central): 56 points; 8.0ppg; 7 games
Boys Area Scoring Leaders Through December 8th
Zoe Bauer (Culver): 72 points; 24.0ppg; 3 games
Zac Richie (OD): 69 points; 23.0ppg; 3 games
Matt Richie (OD): 53 points; 17.6ppg; 3 games
Jermaine Meyers (CMA): 81 points; 16.2ppg; 5 games
Kyle Sanders (Knox): 48 points; 16.0ppg; 3 games
Andrew Alexander (John Glenn): 47 points; 15.6ppg; 3 games
Jake Kitchell (South Central): 27 points; 13.5ppg; 2 games
Lonnie Shetler (John Glenn): 40 points; 13.3ppg; 3 games
Michael Baughman (OD): 37 points; 12.3ppg; 3 games
Josh Risner (Knox): 37 points; 12.3ppg; 3 games
John Eckert (North Judson): 24 points; 12.0ppg; 2 games
Eric Baum (South Central): 23 points; 11.5ppg; 2 games
Jordan Guse (LaCrosse): 34 points; 11.3ppg; 3 games
Lance Kruger (West Central): 34 points; 11.3ppg; 3 games
Alan Baum (South Central): 21 points; 10.5ppg; 2 games
Jake Kosinski (John Glenn): 31 points; 10.3ppg; 3 games
Ryan Pahl (LaCrosse): 31 points; 10.3ppg; 3 games
Kendall Hochstedler (North Judson): 20 points; 10.0ppg; 2 games
Matt Walker (South Central): 20 points; 10.0ppg; 2 games
Seth Culver (LaCrosse): 29 points; 9.6ppg; 3 games
Dillon Steininger (LaCrosse): 26 points; 8.6ppg; 3 games
Andrew Frasure (North Judson): 17 points; 8.5ppg; 2 games
Nathan Hankins (North Judson): 17 points; 8.5ppg; 2 games
Andrew Malott (Winamac): 32 points; 8.0ppg; 4 games
Dominick Beehler (LaCrosse): 24 points; 8.0ppg; 3 games
12/8/09
The Indiana Football Coaches Association announced their All-State teams yesterday. In all, there were seven area athletes named as 1st team or Junior All-State. Here are the young men honored:
1A 1st Team: OL Mark Heater (Winamac); LB Matt Kolish (Winamac). JR All-State: RB Eric Sass (Winamac); DL Jeremiah Harvey (Culver).
3A 1st Team: OL Michael Kime (CMA); JR All-State: WR Juwan Brescain (CMA); K Tm O'neill (CMA)
Congratulations to these young men on their post-season acknowledgements!
Congratulations also to Knox's Jake Rietow. Jake was one of 24 football players across the state who was selected to the Indianapolis Colts Academic All Star Team for the 2009 season. The 5'7 150lb senior defensive back is a great example of how the "student" in "student athlete" remains a top priority for our area athletes!
Through December 7th, here are the current active area coaching leaders:
Boys Coaching Leaders:
Todd Boldry 12 years (Knox): 170-81
Travis Hannah 11 years (John Glenn): 113-134
John Steinhilber 12 years (South Central): 105-138
Bryan Heimlich 7 years (West Central): 79-58
Ryan Bales 5 years (NJSP): 47-45
Alan Huss 4 years (CMA): 43-33
Bill Ball 3 years (Winamac): 13-34
Kyle Elliot 2 years (Culver): 7-17
Matt Richie 2 years (OD): 2-21
Rob Walker 1 year (LAC): 1-2
Girls Coaching Leaders:
Jim Swaney 26 years (Winamac): 418-140
Terry Minix 17 years (OD): 212-125
Dan Hutton 12 years (John Glenn): 150-103
Dan Huizenga 8 years (Knox): 91-72
John Hampton 7 years (NJSP): 89-50
Gary Christlieb 7 years (CMA): 71-67
Gina Hierlmeier 4 years (West Central): 46-28
Gary DeSmet 5 years (LAC): 22-65
Ashli Faulkner 3 years (Culver): 18-31
Rick Budka 2 years (South Central): 5-20
12/7/09
Best start in recent memory! The Lady Cavaliers are off to a 5-2 start this season and came within 2 points of being 6-1 in an overtime loss to the Bremen Lions. Behind Gwen Zehner's 37 points, one can't help but wonder if the outcome would have been different if Culver would have had the other half of their one-two punch in the post, Patrice McBee.
Speaking of Gwen Zehner, the 6-1 junior is currently averaging just under 23 ppg, and has eclipsed 30 points in two contests so far this season. At her current pace, Gwen is putting herself in a position to challenge the career 1,000 point mark by the end of the season!
Moving up the career scoring list. South Central's Jake Kitchell currently ranks 4th on South Cental's All-Time scoring list with 1,136 points. The 6-9 Indiana State bound Kitchell needs only 13 points to pass 1999 graduate Kurt Welsh for 3rd All-Time.
Talk about balance! The Knox Lady Redskins are currently being led in scoring by 5-10 junior Elisabeth Caudill who is averaging 10.3 ppg. With teammates Kierstynn Combs (9.43 ppg), Brittany Tetzloff (9.29 ppg), Paige Wagner (9.29 ppg), and Janyl Zachary (9.14 ppg) the Lady Skins are off to their best start (5-2) since the '06-07 season. The big question for opposing coaches appears to be, "who do we focus on?".
Doing what they do. The Oregon-Davis Lady Bobcats are at it once again. The 1A #4 ranked Lady Cats are currently ranked 27th in the state (all classes combined) in scoring average, putting up 63 points per game. They are also ranked 39th in the state in average margin of victory, winning their games by 18.6 points per game.
12/02/09
The Associated Press announced their All-State football teams today. In all, there were 19 area athletes named either First Team or Honorable mention. Here are the individuals who were honored:
1A First Team: Marc Heater OL (Winamac). Honorable Mention: RB Spencer Dobson (West Central); Michael Salary (Culver); Eric Sass (Winamac): OL Matt Kolish (Winamac): DL Jeremy Harvey (Culver)
3A First Team: Trace Thews DL (CMA); Jimmy Krause LB (Knox). Honorable Mention: RB Zach Deery (CMA); Josh Anderson (John Glenn): WR Juwan Brescacin (CMA): OL Nathan O'Dell (John Glenn); Kenny Eagle (Knox); Michael Kime (CMA): DL Charles Dreeson (John Glenn): LB Ryan Stec (CMA) Tyler Thornton (John Glenn): DB Mitch Anthony (CMA): P Aaron Everage (Knox)
Congratulations to all of these young men on great seasons!
11/29/09
Random thoughts from an exciting Holiday weekend of local sports action:
Did the distraction of a lawsuit against the North Judson-San Pierre High School and the IHSAA have anything to do with the Blue Jays Boys Basketball team's lackluster performance against Knox on Wednesday? Best case scenario: It didn't help the teams preparation. Worst case scenario: It was a definite drawback to the teams preparation. Prediction: the Jays will be better prepared when the two teams meet in January!
Did the Redskins upset win at North Judson on Wednesday have anything to do with their lackluster performance at Morgan Township on Saturday? The answer to the question: Probably! Prediction: the Redskins will be better prepared for their next game!
The O-d Bobcats boys team has come a long way since last year, as exhibited by their comeback after a 14 point deficit to come within 2 of LaCrosse on Saturday. A year ago, they would have not made that same kind of run after getting down that far.
The Knox Lady Redskins showed that they have come far under second year Coach Dan Huizenga, coming within 2 of 4-A Noblesville in the Tippe Valley Tourney. They are close to becoming a very good basketball team as soon as they learn how to finish the deal in the close games!
11/19/09
Knox High School Fall Sports Awards winners recognized at Wed. night's Fall Sports Banquet included:
Cheerleading: MVP - Devin Ryan, Mental Attitude - Jessica Walters & Rebecca Stacy, Most Improved: Taylor Quella
Boys X-C: MVP - Austin Edwards, Most Improved - Conner Carlson, Mental Attitude - Travis Amor
Girls X-C: Coaches Award - Stefanie Bartoli (the only female participant, the Senior toughed it out!)
Football: Les Mullins Award (MVP) - Jimmy Krause, Most Improved - Chris Newbauer, Mental Attitude - Lance Baert, Coaches Award - Kyle Hernandez
Tennis: MVP - Grant Warren, Most Improved - Austin Risner, Outstanding Freshman - Kyle Kletz
Volleyball: MVP - Caity Farus, Most Improved - Kristine Adamiec & Hannah Folkers, Hustle Award - Brittany Tetzloff & Kierstynn Combs
Blanket Award Winner (8 Varsity Letters) - Jimmy Krause
All Northern State Conference: Volleyball - Caity Farus, Brittany Tetzloff & Janyl Zachary Football - Jimmy Krause, Tennis - Grant Warren
11/18/09
Is this the Year of the Cavalier? Just a week and a half after the Culver Football team won their first Sectional football Championship in 8 years, the Lady Cavaliers basketball team pulled off the shocker of the early basketball season when they defeated Winamac Tuesday night 51-44! Warrior Coach Jim Swaney said "this isn't a shocker" since he had predicted in the WKVI pre-game show that Winamac would struggle against the height of the Lady Cavs. Gwen Zehner had 23 points, 15 rebounds 4 assists and hit 5 of 6 free throws to lead the way for the Cavs, but it was the maturity shown by her fellow Junior Patrice McBee that made it possible for the Cavs to go 2-0. The 6-3 McBee showed the kind of force she could be inside and served notice that the inside combination of Zehner and McBeee is going to have to be dealt with in the Northern State Conference and in the Class 2-A Sectional next February.
Winamac Girls game against Rensselaer, scheduled for Friday has been moved to Saturday night because of the Bombers success in Football...they'll be playing in the semi-state on Friday night!
11/17/09
- How do they find the time? The Oregon-Davis Lady Bobcats are off and running on another outstanding season of high school basketball, led by cousins Gabi and Kelsey Minix who have been regulars on a team that has gone 73-7 over the last 4 seasons...80 varsity games and probably another 200+ off-season games and yet they find the time to be outstanding in other areas as well. Kelsey is a member of the Indiana Ultimate All-Star Cheer Team out of Goshen which won the Buckeye Open National Cheerleading Championship last weekend in Columbus, Ohio. They'll now advance to the World's Cheerleading Championships in Orlando, Florida, next April. And, Cousin Gabi is a finalist for the 2010 Spa Models. If she is one of the 15 chosen, she'll be invited to San Diego for a modelling photo session! And, oh yeah, they are both outstanding students at the top of their Senior class and happen to be 2 of the nicest student-athletes you'll ever meet!
- Best idea for an athletic fund raiser this season? The Knox Lady Redskins are offering babysitting service at Knox High School the day after Thanksgiving, so folks can go Christmas shopping and be assured their little ones will be well cared for by a group of young ladies who are fun to be around! The service will be offered 6 AM-6PM on Friday.
- Note the Marquette at Culver girls games on Thursday will be a 6:30 EST Varsity start since Marquette doesn't have a JV Team.
11/16/09
- Did you notice: 3 players in double figures for the Oregon-Davis Lady Bobcats in their 66-40 win over Triton, and NONE of them was Gabi Minix, the Miss Everything for the 'Cats. She scored only 9 points, but dished out tons of assists so that teammates Justyne Kranenburg (22), LeeAnn Meyer (12) and Sammi Sims (13) could pick the Trojans apart and prove to all critics that Gabi isn't Miss Everything...as she's insisted all along...she's part of a TEAM!
- Knox Lady Redskins bounced back from Friday's overtime loss to Winamac with a big 55-36 win over Rensselaer on the road Saturday, as well.
- West Central could be a sleeper in the Midwest Conference Girls basketball race...opened with a convincing 46-28 over Morgan Twp. on Saturday.
11/13/09
- UNBELIEVABLE! 2 local atheltes signing National Letters of Intent to play Division 1 basketball in the same week! That's never happend before in history! The Kankakee Valley couldn't be represented by two better young people: Gabi Minix of Oregon-Davis, headed for Marquette University and Jake Kitchell of South Central, who will be going to Indiana State University. These two outstanding young people represent what's right about high school athletics. Both are dedicated students, as well as athletes, strong believers in God, family, and team. Both gave a lot of credit to their teammates, their schools and especially their parents as they made their momentous decisions. Gabi is the daughter of Terry and Cheryl Minix and Jake is the son of Brad and Susan Kitchell.
11/09/09
- Jake Kitchell, the outstanding 6-8 Senior from South Central will make it official on Thursday when he signs a National Letter of Intent to play basketball at Indiana State University. The signing is scheduled for Noon in the South Central Corporation Office.
11/07/09
- UNBELIEVABLE! Not that the Culver Cavaliers won their 4th Sectional Football Championship in history on Friday, but how they totally dominated the Whiting Oilers at Ray Gallivan Stadium. Time of possession of 30 minutes plus, a school record tieing 559 yards of total offense, and a balanced attack that saw a little bit of everything was mind-boggling to those of us at the Stadium.
- UNBELIEVABLE! That the Culver fans would meet for a pep rally at 2:00 AM after the team got back from Whiting...the team escorted around town by the Fire Department and scores of people gathering at John Nelson Gymnasium to celebrate the victory.
- UNBELIEVABLE! That the Cavaliers would go from a 1-9 record a year ago (2-8 if you count a forfeit from Bremen) to 8-4 and Sectional Champions in 1 year! Shows you what hard work, focus and a positive attitude can do!
11/02/09
- Knox and Winamac Volleyball teams both lost in 3 games at the Regional level on Saturday, but both had great seasons (Winamac 29-7, Knox 30-7), and each team has only 1 Senior!
- The Hallmark of both of these volleyball teams was the manner in which they conducted themselves throughout the tournament: good sportsmanship, intensity, respect for their opponents! This indicates Coaches (Cathy DeFries of Winamac, Jake Skelly of Knox) who demand the best from their players. They set records for wins in a season (29 at Winamac, 30 at Knox) with hard work, focus, and, especially CLASS! Thanks, Ladies, for providing your fans with an exciting season!
- WKVI Sportsline Live will be at Whiting on Friday night for the Culver at Whiting football Sectional Championship if you can't be there, you can hear the action at 99.3!!!!!
10/31/09
- The Culver Cavaliers are the only surviving local team in high school football, going to Whiting for a Sectional Championship game, the Cav's have overcome a lot this season...a Sectional championship would be a fitting tribute to a group of hard-working, never-say-die kind of players. WKVI Sportsline Live will be at Whiting to bring you the action on Friday.
- Wheeler decided they'd heard enough of the strength of schedule argument about their team and wanted to prove they were for real when they beat NJ/SP 48-7 in football Sectional play....OK, OK, the Bearcats are for REAL fans!
- What a bunch of scrappers the Knox Redskins are...after an 0-4 start they finished strong...just didn't have enough weapons to deal with a talented Andrean team on Friday.
- After interviewing members of the Knox and Winamac Volleyball teams, it's easy to see why they're so successful...they're smart and positive-thinking...they believe in themselves, their coaches and their destiny!
10/27/09
Congratulations to the Knox Redskin and Winamac Warrior Volleyball teams on winning Sectional Championships on Saturday. The second in a row (and second in history) for Winamac, the 6th in history, but first since 1989 for the Redskins. Both did it in comfortable fashion as they dispatched their opponents 3-0 in each case! Knox will take on #4 ranked Mishawaka Marian in the 3-A Regional at Twin Lakes, while Winamac will face Central Noble at Westview.
Lady Redskins won't be intimidated by #4 ranking of Marian. Coach Jake Skelly has toughened his team with a schedule which includes 9 4-A schools and have beaten the likes of Merrillville, Highland, Concord. And, they've compiled a 30-6 record with only 1 Senior on the squad!
If the Warriors get past Central Noble, they'll likely face #6- ranked Fairfield for the Regional Championship.
Winamac fans were shocked by the 27-14 loss to Triton in the Football Sectional Friday, but shouldn't be...there's a difference bewteen the Northern State Conference and the Midwest Conference in football!
Culver has aligned themselves to win a Football sectional with a rematch with Tirton next on the schedule. The Cavaliers and Triton have both benefitted from their play in the NSC when it comes to Sectional time.
Round 2 of football sectional play is this Friday. Area teams still alive:
Triton @ Culver
Whiting @ South Central
North Judson @ Wheeler
New Prairie @ CMA
Andrean @ Knox
10/22/09
The Winamac Warriors will try to defend their first-ever Sectional Championship from a year ago in the 2-A Tournament at North Newton, where they will face Boone Grove in tonight’s second game after Culver meets the host Spartans in the first game at 5:30 Central Time. North Judson drew the bye in that tournament and will face
- The Knox Redskins take their best record in school history into 3-A Sectional action at Rensselaer where they will open the tournament against
- John Glenn was eliminated from 3-A Tournament play on Tuesday night when they lost to
- In Class 1-A, LaCrosse opens play against Covenant Christian in tonight’s second game at
- At Triton, South Central opens against 5-time defending State Champion
- The West
10/15/09
The Knox Redskins Volleyball team set a record for most wins in a season by beating K.V. Tuesday night...they can prove they're the best ever in school history with a strong Sectional showing!
What a race for 3rd place in the Girls Cross Country Regional at Rensselaer with West Central edging arch-rival Winamac 106-104! What a rivalry!
Best matchup in local Football Sectionals during the opening round? West Central and South Central...both with something to prove after 1-win seasons! Of course, everyone is anticipating a Culver-Winamac semi-final matchup. Both teams are having outstanding seasons...but, these back-door rivals haven't played since the '70s! The re-match with Knox at Glenn could be interesting...yes, the Falcons won the first time 28-7 but after 6 turnovers by the 'Skins, 3 of which ended up as TD's for the hosts.
10/13/09
The IHSAA sectional draw for football took place on Tuesday, October 13th. The results for area teams are as follows:
Sec. 17: CMA vs. Hammond Clark; Knox vs. Glenn
Sec. 25: NJSP vs. River Forest
Sec. 33: Culver vs. Laville; Winamac vs. Triton; South Central vs. West Central
10/13/09
The IHSAA sectional draw for volleyball took place on Monday October 12th. The results for area teams are as follows:
Sec. 18: Knox vs. Calumet
Sec. 19: Glenn vs. Plymouth; CMA vs. New Prairie
Sec. 34: Culver vs. North Newton; Winamac vs. Boone Grove; NJSP vs. Hebron
Sec. 49: LaCrosse vs. Covenanat Christian
Sec. 50: South Central vs. Marquette Catholic; Oregon-Davis vs. Westville
Sec. 52: West Central vs. Caston
10/10/09
North Judson-San Pierre Blue Jays get a new Quarteback and a new result...beating West Central 51-14. Dalton Tunis is the new signal caller...replacing Kendall Hochstedler, who can probably deliver more punishing blows to opponents as a running back/receiver...and as a strong safety. Jays broke a 5 game losing streak...and could be a threat in their 2-A Sectional. You have to go back to 1976 to find a 5-game losing streak by the Jays!
After committing 15 turnovers in losing their first 4 games, the Knox Redskins have only 3 in their last 2 games...and they're 2-0 in that stretch. If they can get New Prairie on the road, they'll have momentum going into the Sectional...and, with the right draw, could find themselves back in the Sectional Championship game despite everything!
NO ONE brings a team along during the course of a season better than Justin Bogunia at John Glenn! After that 0-2 start, they have begun to put it together!
Culver Military lost star fullback Zach Deery on the first series vs. Lafayette Central Catholic on Friday...a broken leg ended his career at CMA...CC won 42-0...playing with 8 players who are D-1 prospects, the Knights will be hard for anyone to deal with.
Former Culver Community Coach Neil Wagner, who led the Cavs to back-to-back Sectional championships in 1999-2000, stopped by before Friday's game to renew old friendships at Culver Community...he was in town as part of the Coaching Staff at Lafayette Central Catholic who were at CMA that night. Neil is one of the really class acts in the Coaching ranks in Indiana, though he couldn't recreate the magic he brought to Culver when he went back to Lafayette Harrison, his alma mater.
The Knox Redskin Volleyball team goes for a school record 26th win at Kankakee Valley on Tuesday! Congrats to the Lady 'Skins who will be looking for their first-ever Sectional championship in a couple of weeks. Lone Senior Kristine Adamiec has come in and played strong when injuries struck the squad. Enough to make even Kristine smile :)
Speaking of Sectionals, the draw for Volleyball will be on Monday, for football on Tuesday of this week!
South Central continues to be the hard luck team in the area losing to Calumet 6-2 at Homecoming Friday. The young Satellites have lost 6 games by a total of 36 points!
Speaking of SC...Mallory Gorski, the greatest girls basketball player ever to play for the Satellites is coming back for an encore performance! It's part of the Lions Club fundraiser that features the Harlem Ambassadors. They'll be at the SC gym on Wed., Oct. 21st at 7:00 PM...it's a great show of high flying slam dunks, dazzling ball handling tricks and funny family-oriented routines. They'll be playing a home-town All-Star team that will include Mallory. The All-Stars will be coached by Mike Nicksch (who claims to be the greatest boys basketball player ever at SC!). It's all for a good cause, and it'll be worth the cost of admission to see Mallory play one more time!!!! The Ambassadors will be at SC on Oct. 15th to talk with students at a convocation as well.
10/06/09
Remember this name: Maddy Bailey! She's an 8th grader at North Judson-San Pierre Middle School and she blitzed the field at the Kankakee Valley Invitational Cross Country Meet last Saturday, leading her team to a 2nd place finish. Her time of 12:34 was pretty good for an 8th grader...we'll be talking a lot about her the next 4 years at NJ/SP High School!
Tournament time is just around the corner for high school football and volleyball, the draw for Sectional pairings will be next Monday (Oct. 12) for Volleyball and Tuesday (Oct. 13) for football. Best chance for advancement? Winamac, Knox and (surprise!) West Central in Volleyball. Winamac and (surprise!) John Glenn in football! Watch this space for pairings next week.
10/05/09
Teaching the right things right. That's what Cathy DeFries has done since taking over the Winamac High School Volleyball program a few years ago to turn it into one of the most respected programs in the area. Never was that more evident than last Saturday when Sophomore Sarah Redweik made an honesty call when the ball went off her hands on a block and the officials didn't see it. With the score tied 22-22, Sarah didn't hesitate to point out the oversight, giving host Elkhart Christian the point and the lead. EC went on to win the game 25-23 and the match 3-1. "We'll continue to build integrity regardless of wins or losses" Coach DeFries said after the game. That's what matters in high school sports, and it's stories like this that bring me back to high school sporting events year after year!
The North Judson-San Pierre Blue Jays finally found some defense in high school football Friday night, but still lost to nemisis Winamac 14-2 who proved that they deserve the #7 ranking in Class 1-A with a hard-fought win, the first time they've beaten the Jays since doing in twice in 2000.
The Culver Cavalier football team got a dose of reality when they visited Jimtown Friday night, losing 35-0 to the Jimmies. Of course, the Cav's aren't the first NSC team to learn about humility on the banks of Baugo Creek! Culver will find out if they can have their best season ever when they host John Glenn on Friday in a game you can hear on WKVI! And, can you say "Back door rivalry" as the Cav's and Winamac Warriors possibly meet for a 1-A Sectional Title in a few weeks? WOW!
The Knox Redskins footballers finally hung on to the ball (only 1 turnover) in winning their Homecoming game against Bremen. Except for 13 turnovers in 3 games, their record could be 5-2 instead of 2-5. The 'Skins still have an opportunity to have a good season with wins over Triton and New Prairie heading into Sectional play.
09/28/09
Outstanding performances by Sydney Bailey of South Central and Olivia Kuss of Oregon-Davis. They each missed going to the State Golf Tournament by 1 stroke at the LaPorte Regional Saturday. They each fired an 85 on the venerable old Beechwood Course to end up just 1 shy of making history. Both of them acquitted themselves well, though, Sidney went 42-43 with 10 pars and Olivia 43-42 with 7 pars and a birdie. Congratulations to these two outstanding young ladies...and to their Dad's who coached them, since neither school has a Golf Team.
North Judson and Winamac football Friday night...could be another classic, but the Jays have to get their defense figured out. The Jays have allowed 34 or more points in a single game only four times in the last 15 years...they've already allowed 3 this season! They're missing Hank Orkis, the defensive coaching genius behind much of the Jays success over the past 4 decades who retired after last season!
Culver football is for real! Could be a great Sectional matchup coming with Winamac in Class 1-A!
09/24/09
Congratulations to Sydney Bailey, a Junior at South Central, who finished 3rd in the Girls Golf Sectional (at Valpo, no less!), advancing her to the Regional at LaPorte's venerable Beechwood Golf Course. South Central doesn't have a Girls Golf Team, so Sydney has been going it alone...which makes her 3rd place finish even more incredible!
Speaking of South Central...Welcome Home to Chad Haschel, the new Athletic Director for the Satellites...he's a 1992 grad of SC where he led them in scoring in basketball his Senior year, and is excited to be back in the Hoosier State after watching high school basketball in Florida for 8 years..."It's not the same" he told me in his office...proving once again that there's nothing quite like basketball in the Hoosier State on the Planet!
Note that the SC Varsity Volleyball match at Marquette has been moved from Sept. 28th to Sept. 30th.
09/22/09
Jake Kitchell, the 6-8 Senior from South Central has made a verbal committment to attend Indiana State University next year on a full basketball scholarship, according to a story in the Terre Haute Tribune-Star. Kitchell will soon be a 4-year starter for Coach John Steinhilber's Satellites. He was also considering Valparaiso and Western Michigan. A good choice for this outstanding young man. He'll be in the lineup for the Sycamores sooner rather than later I would guess. He averaged 20 points, 14 rebounds, 6 assists and 6 blocks per game for the 17-5 Satellites last year.
What a shocker! Knox beating Winamac in Volleyball Monday night! Not that surprising, though Winamac is off to a great start, the shocking part is they did it in 3 games! These are two of the most improved volleyball programs in NW Indiana over the past few years...and better things on the horizon for both...Knox has only 1 Senior (Kristine Adamiec, who had a monster night against the Warriors)...Winamac has an outstanding Freshman Class!
09/21/09
Allie Howard advanced to the Girls Golf Regional at LaPorte this coming Saturday by shooting a 91 at the Kankakee Valley Sectional last Saturday. That shattered the record she had set earlier in the year when she fired a 102 that earned her "Tyler Roth/WKVI Athlete of the Week" honors. She becomes the first Lady Jay ever to qualify for the Regional in the decade that NJ/SP has offered golf. And, she's only a JUNIOR!
The Knox Varsity Volleyball team won the Tippecanoe Valley Tournament on Saturday beating Woodlan 2-1 (18-25, 25-14, 15-4); Norwell 2-0 (25-21, 25-23) and Tippe Valley 2-0 (25-13, 25-11).
The only thing keeping the Knox Lady Redskin Volleyballers from reaching new heights is their lack of the "killer instinct". No team has more fun than they do, but they need to put teams away when they have the chance if they're going to advance in tournament play. Monday night's clash with powerful Winamac will give Redskin fans a look into their future! The Lady Warriors are for REAL!
Dan Klimczak went home to Union Mills last Friday and may not be welcomed back soon as his Wheeler Bearcats beat his alma mater South Central 61-7 in football! j/j...Dan lives with his family in the SC school district where his kids participate in the Pop Warner program, and everyone in the SC area knows he's building a powerhouse at Wheeler!
Can Winamac run the table on the rest of the high school football season? If they win against big rivals West Central and North Judson the next 2 weeks...it would appear they can!
And, how about the Culver Cavaliers! Beating Bremen gave them a 4-1 record...they've never been 5-1 in school history...but could accomplish that with a win against big rival Knox on Friday!
The Redskin footballers got their first win of the year with a big 4th quarter 21-0 against LaVille, but they'll have their hands full against a strong running game of Culver that has gotten some surprising help from a strong passing game of late!
