The Crookston Pirate Basketball teams will be hosting Warroad in a double-header on Friday. They will have five games and the schedule is below -

Boys -
C Squad at 6:00 at Highland Elementary
JV Boys at 4:30 at the High School
Varsity boys at 6:00 at the High School

Girls
JV at 4:30 at Highland Elementary
Varsity at 7:30 at the High School

The Grafton Wrestling Triangular on Tuesday December 18 has announced the schedule.

4:30 - Weigh-ins (Crookston can weigh in when they arrive)

5:30 - Grafton vs. Devils Lake
6:30 - Devils Lake vs. Crookston
7:30 - Crookston vs Grafton.

The 2018 Crookston Girls Hockey Holiday Classic game schedule has been released and it should be four pretty competitive games.

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The Northland Community and Technical College Girls basketball tournament will be held next week in Thief River Falls.  The schedule is below -

Tuesday, December 11
3:00 PM - Stephen-Argyle vs Clearbrook-Gonvick  
4:45 PM - BGMR vs Red Lake
6:30 PM - Red Lake County Central vs Cass Lake-Bena
8:15 PM - Goodridge-Grygla vs Sacred Heart

Friday, December 14
Consolation semi's at 3:00 and 4:45 PM
Semi-finals at 6:30 and 8:15 PM

Saturday, December 15
1:00 PM - 7th place
2:45 PM - Consolation Championship
4:30 PM - 3rd place
6:15 PM - Championship

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SECTION 8AA BOYS BASKETBALL POLL AND PREVIEW

We had all 16 coaches respond (two didn't vote) so I would like to thank all the coaches for their cooperation to get perfect attendance.  The top five comes as expected.  The defending Section 8AA Champ, Breckenridge, is at the top and they edged Perham by two points.  Hawley is a distant third, which might be some pretty good bulletin board material for the Nuggets.  East Grand Forks and Osakis round out the top five.  Nobody else was close with the sixth place team only having 6 points in the voting. 

Hawley is the favorite in the North with EGF and DGF right behind them and Breckenridge and Perham taking the top spots in the south.  The first polls of the season had Perham ranked #3, Hawley #9 and Breckenridge #10.  It will be a very competitive section again this year, although the top teams are at the top and there is a little separation.  We will see and we know it will be a fun season and I can't wait until March to see what happens in the playoffs.  The polls and team previews are listed below -

Top 5 teams -            Points  (two coaches didn't vote)
1. Breckenridge (9)       59
2. Perham   (5)              57
3. Hawley                     37
4. East Grand Forks      21
5. Osakis                      18
 

North Sub-Section
Team                 Points (first place)
1. Hawley                     10  (5)
2. East Grand Forks     16  (1)
3. Dilworth-G-              17  (2)
4. Crookston -              30
5. Warroad                   32
6. Roseau                      35
7. Bagley                       40
8. Thief River Falls        44

South Sub-Section   (two coaches didn't vote)
Team                           Points  (first place)
1. Breckenridge                5 (5)
2. Perham                         9 (1)
3. Osakis                         13
4. Barnesville                    22
5. Park Rapids                 25
6. Wadena-Deer Creek - 28
7. Long Prairie-GE           29
8. Staples-Motley -          41

TEAM PREVIEWS IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER-

BAGLEY FLYERS – Coach Darin Carstens 7^th year (13^th overall)
Bagley went 13-13 last season with a 79-63 loss to East Grand Forks in the first round of the playoffs.  The Flyers will be young and won’t have a lot of experience returning, but they always seem to have a load of tall and athletic players that know how to play.  Bagley might struggle against some of the top teams early on this season but look for them to be a tough team to beat late in the season.
Top returners - Jim Hvezda Sr.10ppg, Mike Troxell Sr. 4.5ppg
Top newcomers - Josh Wilson Sr. Zach Anderson Soph, Kenly Gordon Soph, Alec Norum Soph
Season outlook according to Coach Carstens – “This season is unlike last year with very little experience coming back.  We will be young with a lot of potential; this group of guys gets along so well on and off the basketball court. We do have one of our top scorers and all-around players back. Hopefully we can play a little more up-tempo style and put more points on the board, as we should be a better shooting team.  If we continue to play defense and don’t turn the ball over, we should be in every game. The conference schedule will again be a test every night.”

BARNESVILLE TROJANS – Todd Henrickson 22^nd year (33^rd overall)
Barnesville is coming off a 9-16 record last year and a 66-45 first round loss to Osakis.  The Trojans will return some pretty good talent with Adam Tonsfeldt and Hunter Zenzen.  They might start slow as they shake off the football legs, but they will be ready to go after the first couple of weeks and they know how to win, which they showed this fall when they made it to the state championship football game.  Barnesville is always a tough team to play and this year will be more of the same.
Top returners - Adam Tonsfeldt (All-Conference) and Hunter Zenzen (All-Conference), Jason Henrickson, Grant Inniger, Brooks Martinson, Kellen Hinsz, Sam Askegaard.
Season outlook according to Coach Henrickson – “All players mentioned above have varsity experience.  They have been through the schedule and know exactly what to expect.  Consistency on the offensive end will be a key for us.  The kids we have returning play hard and play well together.  We expect to compete well each night we step on the floor.”

BRECKENRIDGE COWBOYS – Coach Arly Ohm 25^th year at Breckenridge, 28^th year overall.
The Cowboys are coming off an outstanding season going 25-6 with a section championship, handing Perham their first loss of the season (49-39) in the Section 8AA championship last year.  They lost to Brooklyn Center 63-48 in the first round of the state tournament, beat Minnewaska Area 72-42 and lost to Esko 57-46 in the Consolation championship game.
What can you say about the job Coach Ohm and his staff from the youth level on up have done with the boys program?  They have set a school record with 26 wins each of the last two seasons, two trips to state including the first trip since 1979.  They have the BEST player in the section with Noah Christensen (NDSU commit).   With only two starters returning the main question will be …..who is next up?  Breckenridge has things rolling from the youth up to varsity they are winning at an outstanding percentage and if they can get the new guys to fill in and play their roles it will be another good season.  They are the favorite until somebody (besides Fergus Falls) shows otherwise!
Top Returners:  Sr.'s Noah Christensen (6’8 All-Conference and all reports say a great kid) 20 points, 10 rebounds, 2 blocks, 1 steal and 1 assist per game last year.  Hunter Feigum (2 starters returning)
Bench: Nine total seniors out with strong feeder programs, so MANY guys are competing daily in practice for time.  Unfortunately, we have a few guys out early in the season for various reasons, but once we are at full strength, our depth will be an asset.
Sr. Max Johnson - Backup PG last season, Sr. Caden McGough - 6th man last season, Sr. Sam Bakken - played minutes, Soph. Cooper Yaggie - broken collarbone won't be back until January plus a host of others.  
Season outlook according to Coach Ohm – “With that being said, we need to remember the "process" is has taken by many people as Breckenridge has won the section title 3 out of last 4 years.   Defense and Depth is without a doubt, the Cowboys greatest strengths to build upon.  Our goal is always to be playing our best basketball in March, but we know this section is loaded with really good coaches and players!” 

CROOKSTON PIRATES – Coach Greg Garmen 23^rd year (32nd overall)
The Crookston Pirates were 14-14 last year and lost to Breckenridge 83-58 in the second round of the playoffs.  They lose four seniors from last year’s team and they also lost a kid that switched to wrestling and that means another five points per game for a total of 40 points per game on a team that averaged 64 points per game last year.  The cupboard isn’t bare with the return of now four-year starter, Nick Garmen (or Grandpa as the kids call him).  Nick is one of the top all-around players in the section and is a very smart basketball player.  Jaden Lubarski is a tremendous athlete and showed signs of being a very good player in the second half of the season last year and I am guessing he will pick up where he left off.  Caden Osborn (Ogre as the kids call him) could be one of the better posts in Section 8AA and I would even say he is the BEST small post (6’2) in the section.  I get to play against him once a week and his improvement over the past two years is amazing.  He is strong, quick, has great post moves and can shoot the three too.  They are a great three to build around.  The rest of the line-up is up in the air with a lot of talented kids that will have to make the step up to the varsity level.  Walker Winjum and Josh Bernia are capable guards.  Carter Bruggeman is one kid that I think could be tough.  He is strong and likes to drive but having the confidence of taking the next step will be the key.  Jack Garmen is a Freshman and can flat out shoot, Brady Butt tried wrestling for a week and realized basketball was the sport for him and he will offer some muscle along with his younger brother Brooks Butt.  Jacob Miller and Easton Tangquist will be looked upon to handle the ball at times on the varsity and both work hard, but again being able to make the jump in a VERY good Section 8AA will be tough.  The crowd favorites will be Chris Kazmierczak and Jonny Abeld.  They are two great kids that have stuck it out since third grade and show up every day, they work hard, and I am hoping to see them have some success and the crowds will too.
It will be tough, especially early on for the team.  The team speed isn’t there, so they will have to do a lot of cutting, picking, flex cut type of offense to get decent shots. 
Top returners – Nick Garmen 12 ppg, 7 reb, 4 assists, 2 steals per game; Jaden Lubarski 7 ppg, 3 reb; Caden Osborn 7 ppg, 6 reb, 1 block per game.
Top newcomers - Walker Winjum, Josh Bernia
Season outlook according to Coach Garmen – “The Pirates will have a bit of experience back but need to find some guys to fill a couple of holes. Caden Osborn showed he can play and should have a good year in the post for the Pirates, Nick and Jaden will need to be at the top of their game. Walker and Josh will have to play solid, steady ball for us.  Off the bench it will be a number of kids:  Easton Tangquist, Carter Bruggeman, Jack Garmen, Brady Butt, Brooks Butt, Chris Kazmierczak, Jonny Abeld, Jacob Miller.”
 

DILWORTH-GLYNDON-FELTON REBELS – Coach Mike Clark 7^th year  
DGF went 8-19 last year losing to Crookston in the first round of the playoffs. They only lose three players from last years team and the Rebels are my sleeper pick this year.  Will they win the section?  Not likely, but they will be one of the top teams this year.  They have Nathan Leitner back and the 6’5 kid averaged 17 points and 9 rebounds a game last year and will be a tough matchup again this year.  Aiden Leach is a nice guard that averaged 10 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists per game and that will be a nice 1-2 combo.  They also have everybody else coming back and they could be one of the top five teams this year.
Top returners - Nathan Leitner, F, 6’5”, Sr; Tanner Tahran, F, 6’2”, Sr; Jackson Friend, F, 6’1”, Sr.; Drew Coalwell, G, 5’11”, Jr.; Ben Henriksen, G, 5’9”, Jr.; Aiden Leach, G 5’11”, Jr.; Jacob Strand, G 5’10”, Jr
Top newcomers – Ian Mickelson, Colby Schreiber, Justin Wang, Owen Leach
Season preview according to Coach Clark – “With all the experience returning it should be a very fun year. Great attitudes, work ethic, and many TEAM players should allow us to play an exciting brand of basketball.”
 

EAST GRAND FORKS GREEN WAVE – Coach Josh Perkerewicz 3^rd year as head coach, 16^th overall
EGF was 16-12 last year with an 83-63 loss to Perham in the second round of the playoffs.  The Green Wave have been young the past couple of years and now they are mostly upperclassman and the lumps they have taken over the years will pay off. They play an exciting style of basketball and are loaded with speed and athleticism.  Last year, the Green Wave made some mistakes that could be attributed to the style of play and being young and if they can take the next step this year they will be one of the top five teams with all the talent coming back.  
Top returners (with stats if you have them) – Sam Votava 14ppg 7 rpg 6 apg 4 steals, Julian Benson 13 ppg 5 rpg 2 apg, Nathan Willet 10ppg 4 rb, Tyler Amodt 8ppg 4rpg, Colton Dauksavage 8ppg 3 rbpg 
Top newcomers – Zach Johnson a senior, Tanner Campos a freshman
Season outlook according to Coach Perkerewicz - “We are young but will have a lot of experience returning six guys that played significant minutes last year.  We look to play a fast pace up tempo game in order to counter the lack of size that we have.  Our strength is in our numbers we could play as many as 12 guys per night.  We will have to find a way to win on the road as well where we have 17 road games including 9 straight on the road.  Our schedule is more challenging then it has been in the past with the hope that it will prepare us to win games at the end of the season.  The section is going to be tough this year and bring many challenges.  Our goal is to compete for the #1 seed in the subsection and for the section title.” 
 

HAWLEY NUGGETS – Coach Nathan Stoa – 5th year, 16th year overall
The Nuggets went 15-12 last year with a 64-60 loss to Breckenridge in the section semi-finals without one of their top players.  What Hawley and Coach Stoa was able to do without Jacob Vetter last year was impressive and coach of the year type stuff.   They will have a tremendous starting five and they will have athleticism, size and speed.  Could this be Hawley’s first trip to the state tournament since 2000?  We will see, but the talent is there to be cutting down the nets at the end of the year.
Top returners - Jayden Carlisle, Sr, 15 points, 4 assists, 4 steals All-HOL - committed to play basketball at U of Jamestown; Noah Glad, Sr, 16 points, 8 rebounds (single handedly beat Crookston last year) All-HOL; Chase Libak, Sr, 6 points, 4 assists All-HOL; Gunnar Lawson, Sr, 8 points 3 rebounds, HOL All Star;  Jacob Vetter, Sr, - returning from injury that caused him to miss Jr. season.
Top newcomers - Karter Kopacek, Sr, - Will be looked upon to join the rotation for the first time in his career.  Shoots the ball well and uses quickness well on defense; Hayden Grani, Fr, - Will find time in the rotation at point guard and wing positions.  True pass first guard with very good vision. 
Season outlook according to coach Stoa – “Due to the loss of two-year letter winner Jacob Vetter to a knee injury sustained in the Section Football Championship, we had to shuffle our plans heading into the '17-18 season. The loss of Vetter moved everything around on both ends of the floor, but also gave guys a chance to step up and into different roles. The season was not a completely smooth ride, but the squad was able to compete with nearly everyone on our very difficult schedule. There will be an acclimation process, but getting Vetter back with returning Heart O'Lakes All-Stars Jayden Carlisle, Noah Glad, Chase Libak, and Gunnar Lawson should give our team and our program's stockholders plenty of optimism heading into the '18-19 season. The team will need to focus on defending from tip to buzzer, along with a renewed focus on the defensive boards. Offensively, the team will need to replace the production of the departing seniors. Vetter, along with fellow seniors Mason Klevgaard, Karter Kopacek, and freshman Hayden Grani have a great chance to do that and more.”
 

LONG PRAIRIE-GREY EAGLE THUNDER – Jon Larson 1^st year
The Thunder were 7-18 last season and lost to Perham 49-27 in the first round of the playoffs.  They will have one of the better guards in the section with Gabe Abraham and anytime you have a top-notch point guard you are going to be in good shape.  The Thunder will have a little bit of height and they will need some kids that didn’t play a lot last year to step up and they could have a solid season this year and try to get above that .500 mark.
Top returners - Gabe Abraham is an all-conference selection coming back and will be the floor and team leader.   Other seniors returning are Nick Byers, Sam Byers, Jacob Middendorf, Travis Miller, Matthew Zeipelt.
Season outlook according to Coach Larson – “Our senior point guard is Gabe Abraham and I feel he will be one of the elite guards in our section. He is an excellent leader and a true competitor. We return four starters from last year. We only had two seniors last year, so we were very young but got lots of experience. We are still young this year with three junior starters and two sophomores that will see significant court time. We still have a way to go but will be more competitive with balanced scoring this year. My kids play hard and teams that look past us will be in for a surprise.” 

OSAKIS SILVERSTREAKS– Coach Matt Hoelscher 7^th year
Osakis is coming off a 22-7 season last year with a 62-39 loss to Perham in the section semi-finals.  They will lose a couple all-conference players, but they will return one of the top players in the section with Daniel Savageau (22 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals per game) and they also have Luke Imdieke (8 points, 4 assists per game).  Who will fill in for the five players they lost to graduation and how long will it take for the team to gel?  That is the main question, but Osakis definitely deserves to be in the conversation of the top five teams in the section.
Top returners - Juniors Daniel Savageau and Luke Imdieke
Newcomers - Seniors Jacob Backes and Brandon Boogaard, Juniors Luke Staloch and Carter Rost
Season outlook according to Coach Hoelscher – “We want to be a transition team that can use our length and speed to play a fast paced game. This is the deepest our bench has been in the 7 years I've been here, so we hope to play a lot of guys at a high pace to try and wear teams down.” 
 

PARK RAPIDS PANTHERS – Coach Matt Brandt 8^th year
The Panthers were 13-13 last year with a 58-45 loss to Hawley in the second round of the playoffs.  Park Rapids loses a handful of players from last years team, but they have some pretty good players coming back this year including All-Conference players Gabriel Bagstad and Tristin Persons.  They will have some good athletes, some size and if they can find a point guard they will be a tough team again this year.
Top Returners: Gabe Bagstad, Tristin Persons, Preston Renneberg, Jake Reish, Jeff Haas
Top Newcomers: Nic Michaelson, Shawn Ohm, Kolby Brandt, Hunter Brandt, Ty Karger
Season outlook according to Coach Brandt – “We lost our primary ball handler from last year so that area will be a question mark for us this year.  We return a good group of kids that are determined to be successful and that should help us be competitive in every game.  Our section is very tough and full of some great teams and players. On any given night a team could beat someone who they are not supposed to.  It will be an exciting year with all the talented teams in our section.” 
 

PERHAM YELLOWJACKETS – Coach Dave Cresap 24th year at Perham, 34^th overall
Perham had a dream season last year and they went undefeated 29-0 until they lost 49-39 to Breckenridge in the section championship game.  They lost some very important players from last years team (Martin Lafond, Ben Winkesl, Logan Richter, and Daniel Zitzow to name a few.  They have some serious talent returning with Jenson Beachy, Carter Cresap and Josh Jeziorski to name a few.  Even though they suffered a 30 point loss to Minnehaha Academy (it actually was expected because Minnehaha has a starting five that will all be Division I basketball or football players and two of the top players in the nation) and it will take some time for Perham to get things going and once they do they will be a very good team and they would love to get a rematch with Minnehaha in March.
Top Returners:  Jenson Beachy, Carter Cresap, Josh Jeziorski, John Lafond,  Finn Diggins 
Top Newcomers:  Elijah Morris, Charlie Rasmussen, Dawson Stevens, Anthony Reese. Carter Mulcahy, Grant McMartin, Landon Stevens, Ryan Murphy, Carter Aakre, Caden Schossow, Carson Hespe
Season outlook according to Coach Cresap – “We are very excited about this season. We lost three very good players last year and all were starters so we have a lot to replace. We do have a nucleus of very good players returning that should help us become a very competitive team by the end of the year.  We look for this team to play very hard, play unselfishly, and a team that shoots the ball pretty well.  We need to develop a TEAM CULTURE before we go very far. I feel we have everything else in place to be a very good team come tournament time.  The section will be as loaded as it has been for quite some time. I feel there are 7-8 teams who could win the section title this year on a given night.  Al teams better be ready every night or they will get beat. Breckenridge, Hawley, and EGF are clear-cut favorites to win this section, but I feel we have the team who could surprise someone if they aren't ready to play us.  We will look to Jenson Beachy, Josh Jeziorski, and Carter Cresap to help lead us until we get some seniors and younger players into their roles.  It will be a fun year for the Jackets! Our Schedule is brutal so the wins and losses may not look as good, but I feel we can be a really good team down the stretch.” 
 

ROSEAU RAMS – Coach Ken Hayden 8^th year
The Rams were 17-10 last year and were upset by their rival, Warroad, in the first round of the playoffs 70-62.  The Rams lost a handful of players from last years squad including all-conference players Nels Braaten and Nate Corbit.  They will have one of the top ball handlers in the section back with Eric Hoffer and they will have some height and beef with Jack Hirst returning and Jacob Lindemann (UND Football commit).  Coach Hayden does a nice job and he will have them playing hard and they will be a tough game every night.  Are they deep enough?  That is the main question, in my mind.
Top returners - Eric Hoffer 12 ppg, Jack Hirst 8 ppg, Jacob Lindemann 5 rebounds per game.
Season outlook according to Coach Hayden – “We should look to our seniors for leadership.  Rebounding will be key for us to stay competitive in games.”   
 

STAPLES-MOTLEY CARDINALS – Coach Nick Doll 1^st year
The Cardinals were 9-16 last year and lost to the eventual Section champion Breckenridge Cowboys 84-49 in the first round of the playoffs last year.  They will have a nice core returning with three all-conference players back and they will have to mix in some inexperience.  It will be interesting to see how strong the Cardinals are at the end of the year and not many coaches will know what to expect from them with first year head coach Nick Doll at the helm.
Top returner - Josh Lombard (All Mid-State conference), Derek Kennedy (All Mid-State honorable mention), Brayden Losh (All Mid-State honorable mention)
Season outlook according to Coach Doll – “We will have a ton of young new faces on the floor.”  

THIEF RIVER FALLS PROWLERS – Jonathan Hams 1^st year (9^th as head coach overall and 20+ years coaching hoops overall)
TRF is coming off a tough season with a 2-25 record and a 70-51 loss to Hawley in the first round of the playoffs.  It was a rare down year for Prowler Basketball, but when you lose the talent they have over the past couple of years it was tough to recover from.  It will be another tough year for TRF, but I am thinking they will get more wins this season.  Coach Hams is an outstanding coach and he will have his team playing hard and doing the little things well. 
Top returners - Storm Manning (6.3 ppg), Brevyn Lingen (7.1 ppg) and Luke Perkovich (2.5 ppg)
Season preview according to Coach Hams - “We will be an inexperienced team trying to improve on a tough season last year. We look to have the abilty to score but will take some time to develop the finer skills of the game.”

 
WADENA-DEER CREEK – Coach Kevin Tumberg 4^th year
The Wolverines were 13-14 last year with a heartbreaking 65-64 loss in double overtime to Park Rapids in the first round of the playoffs.  They graduated a very good player in Noah Ross (playing at St. Scholastica this year) and Ryan Anderson to name a few, but they return a lot of kids and some pretty good talent.  They have athleticism, size and they should be a balanced team this year and that could cause some problems for teams defending them. 
Top Returners: Bereket Loer, Cooper Folkestad, and Cade Kapphahn
Top Newcomers: Payton Rondestvedt, Zach Shaw, Tony Kreklau, Aiden Larson, Steven Thomas, Dawson Lupkes, Noah Roers, and Lucas Hinojos.
Season outlook according to Coach Tumberg – “We are in a transitional year.  We lost 9 players to graduation last season and many of those ate up a lot of minutes.  We will be looking to put younger players into new roles this year.  We will be a quick and athletic team that will look to create a ton of turnovers and turn those into easy transition buckets.” 

WARROAD WARRIORS – Coach Vichita Ounchith 8^th year (11^th overall)
Warroad was 13-14 last year with a 50-39 loss to Osakis in the second round of the playoffs last year.  They lose some size with Zach Heppner graduating, but they will have pretty much everybody back.  They have some very nice players with Isaac Falk-Stoskopf (Northwest Conference MVP and North Border all-conference), Tyler Fox (named all-conference in both conferences), and Jet Shoen (All-conference honorable mention in both).  Kyle Spenst is hurt and I am not sure when he will be back, but when he does it will be fun to see how the Warriors do in the second half of the season.  Coach Ounchith does a great job and he always has them playing great at the end of the year and I wouldn’t expect anything else this year.
Top returners - Isaac Falk-Stoskopf 15.3 ppg and 10 rpg, Tyler Fox 11 ppg and 5 rpg, Jett Shoen 11 ppg and 5 rpg, Kyle Spenst (injured) 8 ppg, 4 rpb, and 6 apg.
Top newcomers - Cole Spenst, Jeremy Cole, and Virgil Lanicka
Season outlook according to Coach Ounchith – “We will have to overcome early adversity with Kyle not being able to play for a while until he is medically cleared from a football injury.  We will look for our returning players to help guide the younger ones as the season progresses.”  

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SECTION 8AA GIRLS BASKETBALL COACHES POLL AND PREVIEW

KROX Radio has conducted our annual Section 8AA Girls Basketball coaches poll and season preview.  We have had responses from 14 of the 16 coaches and didn’t receive anything from Frazee or Breckenridge. 

Roseau is the almost unanimous favorite and the Rams have won the last four Section 8AA championships and it looks like the are the extremely heavy favorite and everybody else is fighting for second place.  A couple teams that most coaches think will have a good year is the East Grand Forks Green Wave under the direction of Jay Frydenlund and the Hawley Nuggets under Coach Bill Gottenborg.  The guys know how to coach, and the Green Wave and Nuggets are looking to get back to the next level to make a push. Section 8AA lost a boatload of talent to graduation leaving a lot of question marks going into the season.  The teams that are able to fill the holes and the teams that were young last year will have an advantage coming into this season.  We know this much, Roseau is the early favorite, but don't be surprised if some teams close the gap and knock them off during the regular season this year.  We will see!

We did the coaches poll a little differently with so many first-year head coaches.  We split the vote into the North sub-section and South sub-section and I asked the coaches to name the top five teams.  So, the results of all three are below along with the team previews –

All coaches responded except for Frazee and Breckenridge.  Thanks to the 14 coaches that responded, I appreciate it!

Top 5 teams -            Points
1. Roseau –                  59
2. Hawley –                  32
3. East Grand Forks –  28
4. Dilworth-G-F -         22
5. Barnesville -              12
    Crookston -              12

North Sub-Section
Team                 Points (first place)
1. Roseau –                   8  (6)
2. East Grand Forks –  17 (2)
3. Hawley -                  19
4. Crookston -              27
    DGF -                      27
6. Thief River Falls -     34
7. Warroad -                45
8. Bagley -                    47

South Sub-Section
Team                           Points  (first place)
1. Park Rapids -               7 (3)
2. Barnesville –                 8 (3)
3. Perham -                      12
4. Breckenridge -             25
5. Long Prairie-GE –        26
6. Wadena-Deer Creek - 28
7. Frazee -                       29
8. Staples-Motley -          32

TEAM PREVIEWS IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER-

BAGLEY FLYERS- Coach Brett Nordquist- 1st year
Bagley is coming off a 1-25 season and they lost to DGF in the first round of the playoffs last season.  They will return some experience and will look to pick up a few more wins this season.
Top returners - Seniors Alex Syverson, McKenzie Halverson, Carley Lewis, and Kara Bowman. Alex is best and most experienced player. Many other underclassmen will contribute.
Top newcomers - Kylie Anderson, Kyra Frank, Kelby Fultz, and Sadie Spaulding among others.
Season outlook according to Coach Nordquist - "Our goal is to try and get a little better each time out. We are trying to stay positive. We have been working hard at improving the basics. We probably won't win a ton of games however we think we can be more competitive then the past few years.

BARNESVILLE TROJANS - Coach Ryan Bomstad - 7th year at Barnesville and 13th overall
Barnesville is coming off a great season last year with a 22-6 record and a 61-53 loss to Roseau in the section semi-finals last year.  They lose some very good players to graduation and will look to reload this year.  They will be a team that will be there at the end of the year with the solid coaching of Coach Bomstad.
Top Returners - Elora Passa 5 ppg, 4 rebounds; Claire Meyer 6 ppg, 2 rebounds; Wylie Lewis 2 ppg
Top Newcomers: Lauren Halverson, Emily Bredman, Lexi Bolgrean, Sam Passa, Kim Maesse, Olivia Sorenson
Season outlook according to Coach Bomstad - "The Trojans will be young with a lot of potential. It is a group of players that seem to get along very well on and off the court. This team will continue to grow as the season goes on. The Heart O'Lakes Conference is so difficult night in and night out and balanced that it prepares you for all kinds of styles you will see in the post season. Hopefully with a little luck and if we can stay healthy we could be in the mix come late February and early March."


BRECKENRIDGE COWBOYS - Coach Austin Imdieke 1st year
Breckenridge was 11-17 on the year last year and lost to DGF in second round of the playoffs.  They lose some solid players with two all conference honorable mentions and a handful of girls from last years team.  They will also have a new coach and their is a possibility they could have a new look this year.  We didn't receive any information from coach Imdieke.
 

CROOKSTON PIRATES - Coach Darrin Zimmerman - 4th year at Crookston and 7th overall
Crookston is coming off a 13-14 season with a loss to East Grand Forks in the first round of the section tournament.  They lose two of their top offensive players (shooters), but they return some very good talent.  They have some of the top Sophomores and Freshman in the section and they will be a team that will be tough to beat, especially if they are able to make some outside shots.
Top returners - Kylie Solheim Sr. 5.4ppg 2.8rpg; Rachel Hefta Sr. 5.7ppg   7.2rpg; Emma Borowicz So.11.4 ppg   3.0apg; Dani Boyle Jr. 1.0 ppg; Hayden Winjum Fr. 5.5ppg   3.4rpg; Gretchen Theis Jr. 1.2 ppg; Kasey Cwikla Jr. 4.2 ppg   2.3rpg
Top newcomers – Emma Boll Soph.
Season preview according to Coach Zimmerman – "We figure to be a very competitive team this season with a high ceiling. As in years past, we will need to defend well and take care of the ball, as the north subsection should be a competitive with many good teams. If we continue to improve as the season unfolds, we will be in the conversation come tournament time."


DILWORTH-GLYNDON-FELTON REBELS– Tom Critchley 7th at DGF and 22 years overall
DGF, like most teams were hit hard by graduation last year and they lose some very good players.  The also return some very solid players and I think DGF has a very good chance of being one of the teams taking on Roseau at the end of the year.  They were 24-5 last year and lost to East Grand Forks in the semi-finals last year.
Top returners - Katlyn Brenna - HOL All-Conference, 11 ppg - very good player who can score and defend.  plays much bigger than her size on both ends of the floor; Allie Critchley - HOL honorable mention 8 ppg, 4 assist and 4 steals per game.  Will step in for Natalie Steichen at the point and will create the pace we want to play with on the defensive and offensive end.   Signed with Valley City State; Maria Watt -  Excellent athlete, is a sophomore but this will be her 3rd year on varsity.  We expect her to take a big step forward and she had a great summer; Peyton Wilson - Another very good athlete who is long and has put in the time needed to be a successful varsity player.  Athletic post who can guard a point guard; Jocy Cyr- senior captain will provide some toughness in the post and on the glass; Olivia Feigum - junior wing/post who also had a very good summer and can guard any position
Top newcomers - We have a bunch on younger girls who are ready to step up and run with the older girls.   Really excited with our sophomore and freshmen class. 
Season outlook/preview of your team - We have 4 very good returning players (would have been 5, but we lost Ally Freir to an ACL injury this summer while she was playing AAU) and have some younger girls who have the potential to step up and provide quality minutes.  We are going to be a little bit bigger than we have been in the past which should help us on the boards.  We have excellent guards who know how to play the game and are great leaders.  This is a motivated group and they want to continue the success we have had the past few years. 


EAST GRAND FORKS GREEN WAVE- Coach Jay Frydenlund- 4th year as girls coach, 32nd year overall
The Green Wave are coming off one of their better seasons in several years when they finished 24-6 and lost in the section championship game to Roseau.  They will lose three pretty solid players to graduation, but they return a good core to build off of last years run.  You know they will be well coached and will be one of the favorites to give Roseau a run for their money this season.
Top returners - Sr Mackenna Aitchison 10 ppg, Sr Macy Skyberg 7.5 ppg, Jr Haley Burger- 8 ppg, Soph Chloe Torgerson 5 ppg, Sr Breanna Olson 4 ppg.
Top newcomers - Jr Brynn Hillman, Soph Kadynn Melquist, Jr Emmy Heisler, Soph Hanah Selnes, Soph Caitlin Hovde, Fresh Anina Gehrls, and  Jr Delaney Aaker
Season outlook according to Coach Frydenlund – “We are optimistic with our experience returning but we have some holes to fill especially inside-we will be a much smaller team this season-we will try to get up and down the floor and play full court defense and hope to improve each and every day.”


FRAZEE HORNETS - Coach Jason Reierson
Frazee was 11-16 last season with a first round loss to Breckenridge.  Frazee loses five players to graduation, but they will return Paige Oswald after she averaged 12 points per game last year.  They will have some good upper classman to work with and they should be able to hit double figure wins again this season.
We didn't receive any information from Coach Reierson.


HAWLEY NUGGETS – Coach Bill Gottenborg 36th year
Hawley was 16-10 last year and lost to Barnesville in the second round of the playoffs. What can you say about the Dean of Section 8AA Girls Basketball, Coach Bill Gottenborg?  He is a legend and will have some outstanding athletes to work with again this year.  Paige Thompson will be one of the toughest match-ups for teams and I really like how she plays on both ends of the court.  Hawley is another team that will be ready to make a run in March. 
Top returners  - Rianna Lilleby Sr. 7.5 ppg a very good spot up shooter, she is working to improve her shot off the dribble and footwork on defense; Paige Thompson Jr. – 9.3 ppg, 7.7 rebounds/game a skilled on offense and defense – 6’2 height will give opponents a problem as she can play both on the perimeter and in the post; McKenzie Koenig Jr. – 3 ppg, she had a great offseason and has improved her confidence on offense – we will look to her to be a stopper on the defensive end of the floor; Aby Rux 10th grade– 4.2 ppg, very strong, physical, and aggressive. She plays really hard. She is working to improve her defensive positioning and footwork. 
Top newcomers - Kylie Crabtree 9th grade – 2.6 ppg, skilled offensive ballhandler and shooter – look to improve aggressive and physical play on defense; Kaylie Crabtree 9th grade – 2.4 ppg, skilled offensive ballhandler and shooter – look to improve aggressive and physical play on defense
Season outlook according to Coach Gottenborg – “The nuggets will be competitive and will work hard on doing the little things it takes to be successful such as playing hard, smart, together, and having fun.”  

LONG PRAIRIE-GREY EAGLE THUNDER – Coach Jonathan Young 5th year as head, 12th overall.
The Thunder are coming off an 11-14 season last year and lost to Park Rapids in the first round of the tournament.  They lose four players to graduation from last years team, including two all-conference players.  They went 2-1 in the section last year and we still don’t know if they will be in the section next year so changing the schedule too much might not be the best thing to do.
Top returners - Emma Liebsch, Hannah Middendorf, Kaitlin Welters, Diana Salazar
Season outlook according to Coach Young – “We are returning varsity experience, but are replacing two three-year starters from last year's team that were are top performers on both ends of the court. Looking to stay competitive and improve upon our record in the section 8 tournament.”

PARK RAPIDS PANTHERS – Coach Jeff Overmeyer – 7th year
Park Rapids was 14-12 last year and lost to Roseau in the second round of the playoffs.  They lose four players to graduation including all conference honorable mention Jaiden McCollum.  They have three players that received all-conference honors back and will have a solid core to work with.  The Panthers could be one of the top teams in the south sub-section and it will be fun to see how they do throughout the season.
Top returners - Kaisa Coborn (Sr) All Mid-state conference, Kendra Coborn (Sr) All Mid-state honorable mention, Rilee Michaelson (Jr) All Mid-state, and Paige Johnson (Jr)
Season outlook according to Coach Overmeyer – “I think we will be at least a .500 team and be very competitive in the section as well as our conference.”
 

PERHAM YELLOWJACKETS  Coach TJ Super 7th year at Perham and 13th overall (6 years at Cook County)
Perham was 14-14 last year and lost to East Grand Forks by three points in the second round of the tournament.  They lose some solid players, but return a solid nucleus and some good shooters.  They will be one of the top teams in the south and I am guessing will be one of the top three teams in the south.
Top returners – Sr. Mesa Schultz 8 ppg, 6.2 rpg,, Sr. Rachel Muer 7.5 ppg, 50 threes made, Sr. Lisa Meader 6 ppg, 43 made threes, Sr. Lacy Richter 5.2 ppg, So. Katie Johnson 5.5 ppg,
Top newcomers – So. Grayce Mickelson, Fr. Sydney Anderson, Fr. Mallory Belka, Fr. Bradlyn Gniffke, Jr. Katie Zepper, Jr. Grace Minten, So. Lily DeBoer, So. Stella Raser
Season outlook/preview of your team according to Coach Super– “We have good senior leadership and then a lot of talented younger players. It’ll be interesting to see how our team comes together and which girls step up. Right now, we have a lot of girls fighting for varsity playing time! Our goal is to get one of the top seeds in the subsection and fight for a section title.” 


ROSEAU RAMS - Coach Kelsey Didrikson 6th year at Roseau - 11th year overall
Roseau was 26-6 last year and they were a slow start away from winning another state championship last year.  Roseau has won the last four section championships and they are the heavy favorite to win again this year in a section that lost a lot of great talent to graduation.  Roseau graduates two very good players with Victoria Johnson and Mya Hough.  Mya might have been one of the most under-rated players to the casual basketball fan.  She was solid and I was always impressed with the way she played and found ways to be successful.  Speaking of successful, Roseau has All-State selection Kacie Borowicz (committed to play next year at UND) back for her senior year.  She is the real deal and really gets the Rams going and Katie Borowicz, one of the best sophomores in the state.  That is the top 1-2 combo in the section and one could say in the state in Class AA.  After losing six to graduation, how will the Rams fill the holes?  That will be the question mark, but I have a feeling it will be answered sooner than later.  Roseau is the top team until somebody in the section proves otherwise.
Top returners - Kacie Borowicz - UND commit (26.5 ppg, 6.5 rb, 4.2 assists, 3.9 steals), Katie Borowicz (18.9 ppg, 5.2 assists, 5.5 steals, 5.4 rb), Emma Waling (4.3 ppg, 2.3 rb), Julia Braaten (3.1 ppg)
Top newcomers - Coach Didrickson said "That's the big question mark!  Hanna Mooney is a freshman who is looking to see some big minutes...from there we need girls to step up."
Season outlook according to Coach Didrickson - "We graduated six seniors who had been around for a long time - there are lots of minutes to replace and question marks about who will fill those spots.  In many ways we are very young and will need the process of the whole season to improve and grow into those roles.  It's exciting to see how it will all play out!"


STAPLES-MOTLEY CARDINALS - Coach Brian Smith 1st year (13th year coaching)
The Cardinals are coming off a tough season with a 2-23 record and a loss to Perham in the first round of the section tournament.  The loss of Claire Wolhowe will be tough for Staples-Motley, but with a solid core returning they will look to pick up some more wins.  Coach Smith will have some bumps early with his young squad, but I am guessing they will get a few more wins this season.
Top returning players - Kaitlyn Smith (Jr.) Guard, Haley Cichos (So.) Guard, Jenna Dvorak (So.) Forward, Tab Allen (So.) Post
Top newcomer - Addy Lorber (Fr.) Guard
Season outlook according to Coach Smith - "We are a young team (no seniors on the roster). We lost our top 2 scorers and rebounders from last season, so we will need all of our players to step up and increase in those areas. We will be more athletic this season than last year and will try to use that athleticism to create some turnovers and get up and down the floor. I feel we have gotten better defensively and on the offensive side we are focusing on the things we can do well and building on those.  I think our girls got a lot of great experience last season and are looking forward to getting things rolling this season!"
 

THIEF RIVER FALLS PROWLERS  – Coach Brian Loe – 1st year (12th year overall) 
The Prowlers were 15-11 last year with a loss to Hawley in the first round of the playoffs.  They suffered the biggest loss to graduation last year with Tiahna Nicholson (playing at UND) and Kylea Praska (playing at UM-Crookston) along with five other girls.  It will be tough to find a new identity and with a “new” coach, it might be a good time to start over.  It will be interesting to see how TRF ends up this year.  They are probably the biggest unknown coming into the season.
Top returners - Seniors Alexa Rogalla 9.1 PPG, Hailey Rosendahl, Becca Leier
Top newcomers - Juniors: Annika Dalager, Carley Johnson, Camryn Schwab, Brea PrickettSeason outlook according to Coach Loe – “We have three Seniors, eight juniors, and one Sophomore on our Varsity team. We are going to have to work to replace a lot of lost scoring from last year.  We will take pride in playing tough defense, rebounding hard, and working together to give us a chance to be successful.  Our team works very hard, and they are a lot of fun to coach.  We have high expectations for ourselves, in what most will call a rebuilding year.  We look forward to being competitive in a VERY tough section!”   

WADENA-DEER CREEK WOLVERINES- Coach Jordan Cresap- 1st year
The Wolverines were 7-19 last year and lost to Barnesville in the first round of the playoffs last year.  They only lost two players to graduation and have some pretty good players returning.  With first year coach Jordan Cresap at the helm expect good things from the girls, especially by the end of the year.  It will be fun to see how the girls progress throughout the season.
Top returners - Ashley Adams (Sr), Kennedy Gravelle (Jr.) 10.7 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 2.7 APG), and Mackenzie Carsten (Jr)
Top newcomers - Madison Carsten (8), Madison Packer (9), Lauryn Gravelle (9)
Season outlook according to Coach Cresap - "We lost two valuable seniors last year in Casey Volkmann and Ellie Miron. We will have a good mix of veteran leadership and young girls who will need to step up into varsity roles. We have good size and athleticism and hope to use that to our advantage. This will be a team that will need some time to mesh and improve together. We hope to become a good rebounding team as well as a team that limits turnovers. This group will be fun to coach because they compete and work hard!"

WARROAD WARRIORS - Coach John Larson- 2nd year as head coach at Warroad. 9th year overall.
The Warriors were 4-23 last season and lost to Park Rapids in the first round of the playoffs.  Warroad will have expectations of some more wins this year with a good crew coming back, but they lost a good one to graduation in Bailey Kleinshcmidt.  Coach Larson is doing a good job with the girls and they will be more competitive and the season opening loss won’t deter them.
Top returners- Anna Holter, Sky Boucha, Lexi Syverson, Madi Pickar, Nikki Dalen
Promising players- Catherine Thompson, Lydia Tessier, Laci Kennedy
Season outlook according to Coach Larson. “We are a team with some older leadership that can hopefully continue to turn the program around. We also have some incoming underclassmen that will push for significant playing time. We will be improved in the win column and on the floor this year. I am very hopeful and optimistic.”

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The Section 8AA Wrestling preview by Mat Rats is below.  We thank Roger Mischke for allowing us to use his preview and all the work he did to put it together!

MAT RATS SECTION 8AA PREVIEW  2018-2019

FAVORITES: Perham Yellow Jackets and the Detroit Lakes Lakers
DARK HORSES: Pierz Pioneers and the Dilworth/Glyndon-Felton Rebels 

PERHAM YELLOW JACKETS
Head Coach: Robb Moser
Enrollment: 421
Conference: Heart O’Lakes
28-3 Overall Duals                  5-0 Heart O’Lakes
Four Place Class State
Section 8AA Champions

Third Place: STMA “Knights” Invite: 195 Pts. 12 Placers
First Place: Bemidji “Rick Lee” Duals: (6-0)
First Place: Grand Forks Central “Sertoma” Duals: (4-0)
Third Place: Fargo “Rumble on the Red” Invite: 135.5 Pts. 4 Placers
First Place: Heart O’Lakes Conference: 261.5 Pts. 14 Placers

The Yellow Jackets have back from their outstanding 28-3 dual meet campaign and Section 8AA and Four Place Class A State Honors. Eleven section place winners, including seven state qualifiers, of which three earned state tourney medals. In addition to that, they will have six with experience back. With just two graduating last spring, look for the Yellow Jackets to challenge those dual meet numbers form last season and make strong challenge to defend their section and state honors. They will be looking for bigger honors at the Class AA state tournament. They have five 40 plus match winners back, Ty Moser (46-2), Zach Peterson 46-3, Dawson Kellog (43-8) Dylan Fudge (42-7) and Owen Werner (40-8) and two 30 plus match winners Jack Fudge (35-9) and Gabe Bellefeuille (35-11). They should have a very balanced team with a great deal of dept. They could challenge anyone in AA if they remain healthy thru out the season.

Returning Wrestlers:
Ty Moser                    12^th                  46-2    1^st Sec./3rd State/AC
Zach Peterson             12^th                  46-3    1^st Sec./3rd State/AC
Dawson Kellog            11^th                  43-8   1^st Section/AC
Dylan Fudge               12^th                  42-7    3^rd Section
Owen Werner             11^th                  40-8    1^st Sec./3rd State/AC
Jack Fudge                 10^th                  35-9    1^st Section/AC
Gabe Bellefeuille        11^th                  35-11   3^rd Section/AC
Leighton Rach            12^th                  23-13   2^nd Section/AC
Blaze Brady                12^th                  20-6                
Jose Lopez                  12^th                  22-14   5^th Section
Matthew Bush             12^th                  15-15   2^nd Section
Garett Covington        10^th                    9-20   6^th Section
Brian Ramos                 9^th                    6-6
Colton Kostynick        12^th                    5-17  
Noah Rooney              10^th                    4-5
Rowdie Lindquist       11^th                    3-13
Brandon Ohara           11^th                    3-1 

Graduates:
Dylan Johnson            33-11   3^rd Section       (47-16 Career)
Wyatt Guck                 28-18   5^th Section       (59-71 Career)

DETROIT LAKES LAKERS
Head Coach: Rob Ullyott
Enrollment: 737
Conference: Mid-State
20-6 Overall                5-0 Mid-State

Section 8AA Runner Up
Eleven Section Placers/Six State Qualifiers/Four State Placers
Second Place: Fosston “Alfred Olson Memorial” 207 Pts. 9 Placers
Eighth Place: Cass Lake “Big Bear” Invite: 112.5 Pts. 5 Placers
Eighth Place: Bemidji “Rick Lee” Duals:
Third Place: Minnewaska “Lakers” Invite: 151 Pts. 9 Placers
Fourth Place: TRF “Arm Forces/National Guard” Invite: 114.5 Pts 7 P
First Place: Alexandria “Big Ole” Invite: 239.5 Pts. 14 Placers

The Lakers have back from a very good 20-6 dual meet campaign eight section place winners, including four state qualifiers, of which two earned state honors. They will also return nine with a wide range of experience. They could challenge those dual meet marks from last season. They will have four 30 plus match winners and five 20 plus match winners back. They will challenge for Mid-State Conference and they could possibly challenge for section honors, with the right match ups. Isaiah Thompson, Noah Olds, Blake Weber, Fabyon Greer, Brody Ullyot and Cade Jackson should be their key leaders thru out the season.

Returning Wrestlers:
Isaiah Thompson         11^th                  45-6     2^nd Sec./State Champ/AC
Noah Olds                  12^th                  39-6     3^rd Section/AC
Blake Weber               11^th                  39-8     2^nd Section/AC
Fabyon Greer              12^th                  33-9     2^nd Section/3rd State
Brody Ullyot               10^th                  29-16   2^nd Section
Cade Jackson               8^th                  26-16   5^th Section
Jordan Skadsem          11^th                  25-21   3^rd Section
Charles Barnett            12^th                  23-19
Blaine Henderson       10^th                  20-21   5^th Section
Andrew Annette         10^th                    7-20
Thad Schrauderoff      10^th                    5-8
Brennen Sather            12^th                    7-10
Bradly Swiers               9^th                    3-8
Garret Nelson              10^th                    3-12
Clint Anderson             9^th                    3-2
Andreas Barzet           10^th                    1-3
Michael Friendshul     10^th                    1-2 

Graduates:
Braydon Ortloff           26-3     2^nd Sec./4th State/AC (139-46 Career)
Payton Jackson           32-15   4^th Section/AC            (144-98 Career)
Austin Baker               39-6     1^st Sec./4th State/AC  (122-66 Career)

PIERZ PIONEERS
Head Coach: Skip Toops
Enrollment: 347
Conference:  Central Minnesota
21-10 Overall              6-0 Central Minnesota

Eleven Section Place Winners/Three State Qualifiers
Fifth Place: Brainerd “Paul Bunyan” Invite: 113 Pts. 7 Placers
Seventh Place: WDC “Dennis Kaatz Memorial” 110 Pts. 9 Placers
Third Place: CBI “Bluejacket” Duals: (3-1) 

The Pioneers will have back from a good 21-10 dual meet campaign ten section place winners, including thee state qualifiers and six with some experience. With the graduation of just one senior look for the Pioneers to improve on those dual meet numbers from last season. If they stay health thru out their football season and the wrestling season, they should have a very balanced and talented team. Eight 20 plus match winners back, look for this team to challenge not only for Conference honors, but to challenge anyone in what should be a pretty balance dual meet campaign. Jake Andres, Carson Huls, Luke Girtz, Reese Kapsner, Brandon Tomala and Brandon Funk should be their key leaders thru out the season.  

Returning Wrestlers:
Jake Andres                12^th                  41-5      1^st Section/AC
Carson Huls                12^th                  36-8      2^nd Section/AC
Luke Girtz                   12^th                  32-9     4^th Section/AC
Reese Kapsner            12^th                  32-10   3^rd Section/AC
Brandon Funk             11^th                  26-15   4^th Section/AC
Brandon Tomala          12^th                  24-14   2^nd Section/AC
Trevor Radunz             9^th                  23-17   6^th Section
Austin Radunz            12^th                  21-7      3^rd Section
Ross Boser                  10^th                  19-19   All Conference
Jacob Gotvold             12^th                  13-25   6^th Section
Riley Hoskins             11^th                  10-22   5^th Section
Alex Barclay               11^th                   7-20
Cale Becker                 10^th                  3-5
Colton Kaspner           12^th                  2-3
Brandon Schlegel        11^th                   1-2
Frank Tomberlin            9^th                   1-7 

Graduate:
Jalen Jansen                28-9                 4^th Section/AC (107-61 Career)

THIEF RIVER FALLS PROWLERS
Head Coach: Kenny Geiser
Enrollment: 546 Thief River Falls/95 Marshall County/81 Stephen-Argyle/98 Warren-Alvarado-Oslo
Conference: North Star
13-10 Overall Duals

Eight Section Place Winners/Five State Qualifiers/Two State Placers
Second Place: WDC “Dennis Kaatz Memorial” 191 Pts.  12 Placers
Fourth Place: Cass Lake “Big Bear” Invite” 128 Pts. 6 Placers
Fifth Place: TRF “Arm Forces/National Guard” Invite: 110 Pts. 6 Placers
Sixth Place: WHAN “Wolfpack” Invite: 126 Pts. 7 Placers
Second Place: Fertile “Northwest” Invite: 136.5 Pts. 8 Placers

The Prowlers will have back from their 13-10 dual meet campaign six section place winners, including three state qualifiers, one of which earned state tourney honors. They will have a dozen back with a wide range of experience too.  With just two graduating last spring, look for this team to challenge those dual meet marks form last season. They should make a challenge for one of those top four spots in what should be a pretty balance dual meet campaign. Cade Lundeen, Jake Davis, Cody Wienen, Bradey Kasprick and Cole Johnson should be their leaders thru out the season.

Returning Wrestlers:
Cade Lundeen             12^th                  42-7      1^st Sec./4th State
Jake Davis                   11^th                  36-10   1^st Section
Cody Wienen                9^th                  29-15   3^rd Section
Bradey Kasprick           9^th                  25-14
Cole Johnson               11^th                  25-15   6^th Section
Kyle Miller                   12^th                  20-9
Brenan Peralta              12^th                  16-3    2^nd Section
Mason Iverson            10^th                  14-24   5^th Section
Brandon Zuniga          10^th                  14-13
Cody Sele                   12^th                  11-23
Kevin Jensen               12^th                    8-24
Kale Geiser                   8^th                    6-7
Mathew Kolden          11^th                    2-2
Taylor Engebretson      9^th                    1-1
Hunter Shallet             12^th                    1-5
Jayce Lizakowski        12^th                    1-9
Kody Kilen                 10^th                    1-3
Colin Bruggeman          9^th                    1-4
Alex Lancto                11^th                    1-11 

Graduates:
Josh Bernier                48-6     1^st Sec./3rd State         (211-56 Career)
Connor Swanson         34-13   2^nd Section                  (102-58 Career)

PEQUOT LAKES/PINE RIVER-BACKUS ROAD CREW
Head Coach: Travis Hoffarth
Enrollment: 494 Pequot Lakes/190 Pine River-Backus
Conference: Mid-State
18-13 Overall Duals                4-1 Mid-State

Nine Section Place Winners
Fifth Place: WDC “Dennis Kaatz Memorial” Invite: 123 Pts. 9 Placers
Twenty-Eighth Place: Cass Lake “Big Bear” Invite: 51 Pts.  1 Placer
Third Place: LPA “Terry Teiken” Invite: 155 Pts.  12 Placers

The Road Crew will have back from their 18-13 dual meet campaign six section place winners and a dozen with a wide range of experience. Look for the Road Crew to continue to improve during the course of the season, they could challenge those dual meet marks from last season. If they stay healthy and spread out in their weights they could possible challenge for a top four spot in this dual meet campaign. Jake Poehler, Josh Pettit, Connor Tulinchik, Harley Large, Evan Koering and Keenan Dahl all 20 plus match winners, should be their key leaders thru out the season.

Returning Wrestlers:
Jake Poehler                11^th                  29-12   5^th Section/AC
Josh Pettit                    11^th                  29-18   5^th Section/AC
Connor Tulinchik          9^th                  23-7       4^th Section
Harley Large               12^th                  23-21  
Evan Koering              11^th                  20-19   5^th Section
Keenan Dahl               11^th                  21-22   6^th Section
Riley Wilson               12^th                  18-14   All Conference
Austin Staricha            9^th                  11-18
Tim Ryan                     12^th                  12-14   4^th Section
Myca Reynolds            11^th                  11-20
David Shepard            12^th                    4-3
Finnegan O’Dell           9^th                    4-22
Colton Anderson        12^th                    3-4
Isaac Sample               11^th                    3-6
Mathew Foster             8^th                    2-0
Corbin Knapp               8^th                    2-1
Owen Carlson               9^th                    2-4
Caleb Ruhl                    9^th                    2-7
Dylan Shepard              9^th                    2-1 

Graduates:
Peter Koering              39-6                 3^rd Section/AC (73-55 Career)
Addisuone Harrington 28-12  4^th Section       (67-37 Career)
John Urseth                 28-11   3^rd Section       (59-44 Career)
Zach Tulenchik                         3-23

DILWORTH-GLYNDON-FELTON REBELS
Head Coach: Davis Kosen
Enrollment: 364
Conference: Heart O’Lakers
18-6 Overall Duals                  4-2 Heart O’Lakes

Eleven Section Place Winners/Two State Qualifiers
Second Place: LPA “Terry Teiken” Invite: 189.5 Pts.  12 Placers
Ninth Place: Cass Lake “Big Bear” Invite: 111 Pts.  4 Placers
First Place: Moorhead “Gadberry” Duals: (4-0)
Third Place: Heart O’Lakes Conference: 140 Pts. 12 Placers
First Place: Hillsboro “Boro” Duals: (5-0)

The Rebels have back from a good 18-6 dual meet campaign eight section place winners, including one state qualifier and seven with experience. Look for this young team to continue to make big strides of improvement. If they get spread out in their weights and stay injury free they should make a strong challenge for a top four spot in what should be a balanced section. They did graduate three very good seniors, but look for them to get great leadership from Jack Fuchs (36-6), Jordan Summers (32-8), Matthew Pollock (25-8), Zander Jenson (25-17), Carter Schmidt (25-18) and Cade Sogge (23-20).

Returning Wrestlers:
Jack Fuchs                   12^th                  34-6     2^nd Section
Jordan Summers           8^th                  32-8      4^th Section
Matthew Pollock         11^th                  25-8     3^rd Section
Zander Jenson             10^th                  25-17   5^th Section
Carter Schmidt             11^th                  25-18   5^th Section
Cade Sogge                 11^th                  23-20   6^th Section
Blake Bakken              10^th                  15-8     6^th Section
Logan Tucker              11^th                  12-15   4^th Section
Dylan Taves                12^th                    9-5
Preston Johnson          10^th                    6-6
Hunter Fischer             10^th                    5-10
Carter Steen                11^th                    4-20
Logan Grubb               10^th                    3-3
Brodie Strand               9^th                    1-0
Dawson Zutz               11^th                    1-6 

Graduates:
Jacob Arends              38-7                 2^nd Section      (116 Wins)
Trevor Dufault                        24-16   5^th Section       (54 Wins)
Hunter Maclewiski      29-10   5^th Section       (54 Wins)
Daniel Wilson               4-3

PARK RAPIDS PANTHERS
Head Coach: Matt Clark
Enrollment: 371
Conference: Mid-State 

8-14 Overall

Section Placers Winners/One State Qualifier/ One State Placer
Third Place: Crookston “Rod Olson” Invite: 145 Pts. 9 Placers
Sixth Place: Cass Lake “Big Bear” Invite: 117 Pts. 3 Placers
Fifth Place: BHV/PP “Knight Hawk” Invite: 105 Pts. 5 Placers
Eighth Place: TRF “Arm Forces/National Guard” Invite: 92 Pts. 6 Placers

The Panthers will have back three section place winners, including a state medal winner. They will also return five with experience from their 8-14 dual meet campaign. Look for the Panthers to bring up some of their younger wrestlers. They should make strides of improvement thru out the course of the season. Ashton Clark and Jack Hensel should be their key leaders thru out the season.  

Returning Wrestlers:
Ashton Clark               12^th                  38-1                 1^st Sec./2nd State/AC
Jack Hensel                 12^th                  25-18   4^th Section
Lucas Kritzeck                          8^th                  14-18
Eli Bessman                11^th                  10-17   5^th Section
Kobe Burton                 9^th                  10-17
Joe Klein                                 11^th                    9-28
Kian Scott                               12^th                    7-14
Kaden Safratowich     11^th                    1-1 

Graduates:
Cody Dravis                36-5                 3^rd Section       (133-36 Career)
Landon Burlingame    26-16   4^th Section       (96-76 Career)
Zach Hocking             29-12   4^th Section      
Dwayne Johnson         34-8                 3^rd Section       (41-16 Career)
Dawson Roth                6-15

FERGUS FALLS OTTERS
Head Coach: Adam Schlepp
Enrollment: 596
Conference: Central Lakes
3-17 Overall Duals                  1-7 Central Lakes

Three Section Placers
Six Place: Benson “Braves Classic” 93 Pts. 5 Placers
Ninth Place: LPA “Terry Teiken” Invite: 53 Pts.  4 Placers
Ninth Place: WCA “Grant County Area” Invite: 36 Pts. 3 Placers

The Otters will have back three section place winners, including one state qualifier and a dozen with a wide range of experience. Look for the Otters to continue to improve over the course of the season. Kaden Hartwell, Dustin Portales and Cole Fronning should be their key leaders thru out the season.

Returning Wrestlers:
Kaden Hartwell          10^th                  31-13   4^th Section/AC
Dustin Portales            11^th                  26-5    1^st Section/AC
Cole Fronning             12^th                  13-19   6^th Section
Justin Boyd                 12^th                  13-16
Ethan Krause               10^th                  11-12
Delvin Roberts              8^th                    6-10
Jacob Widness              8^th                    5-12
Caden Olsen                10^th                    4-26
Lucas Oliphant              9^th                    4-17
Alex Hastings             12^th                    1-2
Jay Rodriguez             11^th                    1-2
Jonah Sorum                 9^th                    1-3
Sam Sorum                   9^th                    1-2
Lance Graff                  8^th                    1-1
Joy Graff                       8^th                     1-1 

Graduates:
Eric Formo                  5-10
Aaron Billings             2-5
Isaac Oliphant             3-23
Tyler McLemore         1-7

UNITED CLAY BECKER BADGERS
Head Coach: Wayne Otto
Enrollment:180 Lake Park/272 Hawley
Conference: Heart O’Lakes
9-13 Overall Duals

Four Section Place Winners/One State Qualifier/One Place Winner
Third Place: Fertile “Northwest” Invite: 131 Pts. 10 Placers
Fourth Place: LPA “Terry Teiken” Invite: 135.5 Pts.  9 Placers
Eighth Place: Crookston “Rod Olson” Invite:  66 Pts.  4 Placers
Eighth Place: BHV/PP “Knight Hawk” Invite: 85 Pts. 6 Placers
Fifth Place: Heart O’Lakes Conference: 85 Pts. 12 Placers

The Badgers will have back from their 9-13 dual meet campaign three section place winners and twelve with a great deal of experience. Look for the Badgers to challenge those dual marks from last season and for them to possible surprise someone during the course of the season. They should make steady improvement thru out the season, with leadership from Garrett Peterson, Sam Helgeson and Sanden O’Connell.

Returning Wrestlers:
Garrett Peterson          12^th                  32-15   3^rd Section
Sam Helgeson             10^th                  20-20   6^th Section
Sanden O’Connell       12^th                  19-21   6^th Section
Hunter Magnusson      12^th                  13-27
Jacob Beaudine-Schlic11th                  12-25
Nathan Sperr               11^th                  12-27
Joey Stuhaug               12^th                  11-12
T. J Hines                    12^th                  11-22
Bailey Johnson             12^th                  10-22
Zach Cole                    10^th                  10-16
Andrew Wetli             10^th                  10-10
Wyatt Dunham             9^th                    7-13
Landon Bergron          10^th                    5-18
Jack Mattson               12^th                    3-13
Xavier Strehlow            9^th                     2-6 

Graduate:
Sam Wamre                37-6                 1^st Section/6th State/AC

SAUK CENTRE/MELROSE
Head Coach: Vaughn Glasener
Enrollment: 480 Melrose/ 304 Sauk Centre
Conference: West Central

4-19 Overall

Six Section Place Winners/Two State Qualifiers
Eighth Place: SCM Invite: 74 Pts. 8 Placers
Fourth Place: Paynesville “Bulldog” Invite: 136 Pts.  9 Placers
Tenth Place: NLS “Wildcat” Invite: 56 Pts. 4 Placers 

The Coop have three section place winners, including one state qualifier and five with some experience back. They should continue to show improvement thru out the course season. Look for them to fill some weights with some younger wrestlers. Lazaro Garcia, Sam Sjogren and Karter Wensmann should be their key leaders.  

Returning Wrestlers:
Lazaro Garcia             11^th                  30-10   2^nd Section
Sam Sjogren                12^th                  15-7     4^th Section
Karter Wensmann       11^th                  15-24   6^th Section
Josh Brinkman             9^th                   10-17
Coy Sjogren                10^th                  10-18
Jacob Canfield            10^th                    3-16
Phil Polipnick              12^th                    3-10
Ben Millard                   9^th                    2-25

Graduates:
Luke Glasener             26-10   1^st Section      (107 Wins)
Brayan Raya               29-12   5^th Section       (74 Wins)
Roberto Raya              11-7     injured            (42 Wins)
Moses Romero            8-27
Danny Thomas             7-9       6^th Section
Caleb Cheadle              7-14

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The Section 8A Boy's Hockey coaches tend to believe it will be the Big Three again although they are not quite sure who the Big ONE will be! It could be Warroad with some very good young players, or maybe East Grand Forks who to many coaches are loaded including their 'new coach' or maybe it will be the defending champion? When people say, Thief River Falls lost almost everybody, their JV wasn't that good and their Bantam's weren't winning, they ALWAYS add, coach Bergland will have them ready for the playoffs in February!!!
That's the consensus again in a Section 8A Boy's Hockey Poll conducted by KROX RADIO in Crookston.  Warroad took six of the 10 coaches votes as the top dog in Section 8A with many voting for Warroad, but at the same time talking about how deep East Grand Forks appears to be and will be tough to beat! Will Crookston and Detroit Lakes climb another rung in the seeds and slip by the 'top three'?
Five of the 10 teams will open up this weekend with the other five going the following week.  You can find all the Section 8A Boy's Hockey schedules by going to http://www.kroxam.com/section_8a_boyhockey2018-19.htm

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SECTION 8A WRESTLING PREVIEW

The preview is put together by Roger Mischke of Mat Rats-

MAT RATS SECTION 8A PREVIEW 2018-2019

FAVORITES: FRAZEE HORNETS and the BADGER/GREENBUSHMIDDLE RIVER GATORS

DARK HORSES: FOSSTON-BAGLEY BROWLERS and the UNITED NORTH CENTRAL WARRIORS

FRAZEE HORNETS
Head Coach: Clay Nagel
Enrollment: 208
Conference: Heart O’Lakes
24-8 Overall
Section 8 Champions
Class A State Runner Ups

14 Section Placers/10 Section Placers/Four State Placers
First Place: Wahpeton “Dan Unruh” Invite: 313 Pts. 14 Placers
First Place: Brainerd “Paul Bunyan” Invite: 202 Pts. 12 Placers
Second Place: Bemidji “Rick Lee” Duals: 5-1
Second Place: Heart O’Lakes Conference: 218 Pts. 14 Placers

The Hornets of Frazee have back from 24-8 dual meet campaign and Class A runner up honors, six section place winners, including four state qualifiers, of which won state honors. They will also return six with a wide range experience. They should make a challenge to defend their section honors. Luke Tweeton (39-10 @ 220) earned fourth place state honors, Kaden Hiemenz (34-15 @ 132), Brett Graham (29-10 @ 182) and Gabe Drewes (29-15 @ 195) were state qualifiers. Look for them to be their key leaders thru out the season. They did graduate eight section place winners, including six state qualifiers, three of which earned state honors

Returning Wrestlers:
Luke Tweeton             11^th                  39-10   2^nd Sec./4th State/AC
Kaden Hiemenz          10^th                  34-15   1^st Section/AC
Brett Graham              11^th                  29-10   1^st Section/AC
Gabe Drewes              12^th                  29-15   2^nd Section/AC
Anthony Malikwoski  12^th                  29-1                
Ricky Roforth             12^th                  18-28   6^th Section
Christian Carlson        10^th                  14-27   5^th Section
Lucas Valstad             11^th                  12-14
Mason Newling           11^th                    7-11
Howard Solem             10^th                    4-2
Coleton Borah             11^th                    6-4
Brock Barlund            10^th                    5-2
Jake Nagel                   8^th                     3-8 

Graduates:
Tanner Schermerhorn  45-6   1^st Sec./4th State/AC  (159-22 Career)
Mitchael Miller            46-4    1^st Sec./5th State/AC  (107-31 Career
Tanner Eischens           38-8    1^st Section/AC (144-39 Career)
Landon Byer               33-14   2^nd Section/AC            (79-29 Career)
Hudson Hiemenz         31-15   2^nd Section/AC            (60-41 Career)
Tanner Tappe              28-6     1^st Sec./2nd State (77-40 Career)
Logan Wacker            15-18   4^th Section       (48-50 Career)
Carter Shipman           24-21   3^rd Section       (25-21 Career) 

GREENBUSH/BADGER/MIDDLE RIVER GATORS
Head Coach: Todd Bergeron
Enrollment: 116 Greenbush/Middle River/61 Badger
Conference: Independent
16-9 Overall Duals

Section 8A Runner Ups
Eleven Section Placers/Seven State Qualifiers/Two State Placers
Third Place: Cass Lake “Big Bear” Invite” 135.5 Pts 6 Placers
First Place: Larimore, ND Invite: 202.5 Pts. 10 Placers
Third Place: WDC “Dennis Kaatz” Invite: 165.5 Pts. 8 Placers
Second Place TRF “US Army, Mn National Guard: 149 Pts. 9 Placers

The Gators of Badger/Greenbush-Middle River should make a strong challenge for section honors. They have back from their 16-9 dual meet campaign, nine section place winners, including six state qualifiers, two earned medals and seven with experience. They will have eight back with 20 wins plus, this should give them one of the better balanced teams in the state. Owen Novacek (44-5 @ 138) earned fourth place honors, Dominik Vacura (30-7 @ 220) earned sixth place honors, Tony Olson (24-17 @ 106) Joe Dezelar (24-17) and Caleb Vacura (10-16) were state qualifiers. Andy Dostal (31-13), Avery Augustson (23-16, Brandon Pries (21-16) should be their key leader thru out the season

Returning Wrestlers:
Owen Novacek           12^th                  44-5    2^nd Sec./4th State
Dominik Vacura           10^th                  30-7    1^st Sec./6th State
Andy Dostal                11^th                  31-13   3^rd Section
Zach Evans                 11^th                  29-13   2^nd Section
Joe Deselar                  11^th                  24-17   1^st Section
Tony Olson                 10^th                  24-17   2^nd Section
Avery Augustson        12^th                  23-16   3^rd Section
Brandon Pries              12^th                  21-16
Garrett Underberg       10^th                  13-14   Injured
Caleb Vacura                9^th                  10-16   2^nd Section
Jacob Bergsnev           11^th                    6-19
Brogan Beito                 8^th                    4-8
Colton Gust                11^th                    3-2
Ethan Waage                 9^th                    3-5     5^th Section
Derrick Corneluisen    12^th                    2-6
Dawson Beito             10^th                    1-1 

Graduates:
Bryce Bergeron           32-12   1^st Section                   (109-56 Career)
Tyler Isane                  27-12   Injured            (56-52 Career)
Austin Maustad            8-18   5^th Section
  

FOSSTON-BAGLEY PROWLERS
Head Coach: Pat Wolfe
Enrollment: 177 Fosston/247 Bagley
Conference: North Star
17-7 Overall Duals                  3-2 North Star

Final Four Section 8A
Twelve Section Placers/Three State Qualifiers/One State Placer
First Place: LPA “Terry Teiken” Invite: 205.5 Pts. 13 Placers
Fourth Place: FB “Alfred Olson Memorial” Invite: 148 Pts. 9 Placers
First Place: Mayville Portland “Patriot” Duals 3-0
Third Place: WHAN “Wolf Pack” Invite: 145 Pts. 8 Placers

The Brawlers should make a strong challenge not only for a top four spot in this dual meet campaign, but possibly for section honors. They have back from their 17-7 dual meet campaign, eight section place winners, including two state qualifiers and eight with a wide range of experience. Carter Sorenson (33-9 @ 126), Teigen Hextell (23-15 @ 170), Jacob Lomen (33-10), Henry Burrack (26-10) and Christian Schmidt (25-19) should be their key leaders thru out the season. Look for this young team to make great strides of improvement over the course of the season. They did graduate five including four section place winners, of which one was a state qualifier and he earned state honors.

Returning Wrestlers:
Carter Sorenson          10^th                  33-9     2^nd Section/AC
Jacob Lomen               11^th                  33-10   3^rd Section/AC
Henry Burrack            11^th                  26-10   3^rd Section/AC
Christian Schmidt       12^th                  25-19   5^th Section
Teigen Hextell             12^th                  23-15   2^nd Section/AC
Alex Munter                11^th                  17-13   4^th Section
Dane Schoenborn        10^th                  11-13  
Keegan Senger             9^th                  11-25
Tyler Maruska             12^th                    6-11
Kaden Kappedal         12^th                    6-23   5^th Section
Evan Chalich               10^th                    6-9      6^th Section
Noah Hanson              12^th                    3-7
Kaden Sanford            8^th                    3-5
Gabe Berry                  12^th                    2-1
Camden Daniel            11^th                    1-3

Graduates:
Jake Ubert                   38-5    1^st Sec./4th State/AC  (148 Wins School)
Brayden Sorenson       29-17   3^rd Section/AC            (98 Wins)
Alex Wolfe                  30-16   5^th Section
Cole Olson                  26-17   3^rd Section/AC            (86 Wins)
Nick Anderson             10-5 

 

UNITED NORTH CENTRAL WARRIORS
Head Coach: Jacob Oyster
Enrollment: 189 Menagha/120 Sebeka
Conference: Park Region

7-15 Overall                3-2 Park Region

Eight Section Placers/One State Qualifiers
First Place: Crookston “Rod Olson” Invite;151 Pts. 11 Placers
Sixth Place: WDC “Dennis Kaatz Memorial” Invite: 113 Pts  7 Placers
Seven Place: Park Region Conference: 81 PTs. 7 Placers
Twenty-Third Cass Lake “Big Bear” Invite: 38 Pts. 3 Placers
Sixteenth Place: Bemidji “Rick Lee” Duals:

The Warriors should make a challenge for a top four spot in this dual meet campaign. They have back from their 7-15 dual meet campaign, seven section place winners and nine with a wide range of experience. Jared Seibert (32-9), Isaac Tellers (19-12) and Ethan Hendrickson (20-9) should be their key leaders thru out the season. They did graduate three last spring, including one state qualifier.

Returning Wrestlers:
Jared Seibert               12^th                 32-9   3^rd Section/AC
Ethan Hendrickson       9^th                  20-9     3^rd Section
Isaac Tellers                12^th                 19-12   3^rd Section
Gator Bettin                12^th                  17-20              
Eion Ness                     9^th                  16-19
Brock Kako                 12^th               13-23   4^th Section
Hank Tellers                  8^th                 12-15
Dakota Meech             10^th                 12-25   5^th Section
Ethan Trout                 11^th                  11-23   5^th Section
Torrey Carlson              9^th                   6-19
Hunter Skaro               10^th                   2-5
Tucker Holmer             11^th                   3-6
Mason Bradley              12^th                  2-3
Gabe Hendrickson        8^th                     2-2
Dominick Fuller              10^th                  1-2
Dylan Rasmussan          9^th                     1-14 

Graduates:
Toby Hintzman           33-4                 1^st Section/AC (116-74 Career)
Bridger Bettin             12-8
Cade LaCoe               5-9                 (43-59 Career)
 
 

CROOKSTON PIRATES
Head Coach: Wes Hanson
Enrollment: 286
Conference: North Star
12-5     Overall Duals

Ten Section Placers/Three State Qualifiers/One State Placer
Fifth Place: Wahpeton “Dan Unruh” Invite” 110 Pts. 7 Placers
Second Place: Crookston “Rod Olson” Invite: 150 Pts. 9 Placers
First Place: Mahmoman “Cougar” Duals
Fifth Place Fertile “Northwest” Invite: 105 Pts. 8 Placers
Third Place: Grand Rapids “Skip Nalan” Invite: 163.5 Pts. 9 Placers
Tenth Place: TRF “Arm Forces/National Guard” Invite:  

The Pirates have back from their 12-5 season, five section place winners, including two state qualifiers, including a place winner and five with experience. Lukas Meier (36-9 @ 145) earned fifth place state honors and Zach Brown (37-6 @ 106) a state qualifier. They did graduate six last spring, including five section place winners, one was a state qualifier.

Returning Wrestlers:
Zach Brown                10^th       37-6     1^st Section/AC
Lukas Meier                12^th       36-9      2^nd Sec./5th State/AC
Damian Hodgson        12^th        26-13   3^rd Section/AC
Cameron Weiland       10^th        23-16   4^th Section
Ethan Boll                    8^th         21-12
Nolan Dans                 10^th       18-24   6^th Section
Cameron Hulst             11^th       14-13
Braxton Volker             8^th         6-18
Ethan Bowman             8^th          3-2
Andrew Macgregor     10^th         1-4
 
Graduates:
Colton Weiland             28-8     1^st Section/AC (145-68 Career)
Jake Wagner                28-17   3^rd Section/AC (67-59 Career)
Luke Trandem             22-24   4^th Section
Collin Leckie              11-20   6^th Section
Luis Argueta                 7-14   6^th Section
Jake Davidson               3-11 

ROSEAU RAMS
Head Coach: Aaron Rose
Enrollment: 305
Conference: North Star

Dual Meet Records Unknown
Fifth Place: FB “Alfred Olson Memorial” Invite: 110 Pts. 7 Placers
Fifth Place: Crookston “Rodd Olson” Invite: 125.5 Pts. 8 Placers
Seventh Place: Central Cass “Letterman” Invite: 135.5 Pts. 7 Placers
Seventh Place: TRF “Army Forces/National Guard” Invite: 97.5 Pts 5 Placers
Sixth Place: Fertile “Northwest” Invite: 94 Pts. 8 Placers

The Rams have back seven section place winners, including a state qualifier, that earned state honors and four with experience. Chandler Mooney (43-3 @ 145) earned third place honors and Ben Olson (30-8), Race Knochenmus (24-12), Dale Grindahl (25-14), Brodie Wensloff (26-18) and Sawyer Klatt (21-11) should be their key leaders

Returning Wrestlers:
Chandler Mooney       12^th                  43-3     1^st Sec./3rd State
Ben Olson                  10^th                  30-8
Brodie Wensloff         12^th                  26-18   4^th Section
Dale Grindahl             12^th                  25-14   4^th Section
Race Knochennus       10^th                  24-12   4^th Section
Sawyer Klatt               11^th                  21-11   5^th Section
Conner Eidsmoe         10^th                  16-17
Owen Gross                12^th                  7-17   6^th Section
Kyle Bliss                    12^th                    2-15
Brutus Grindahl            11^th                    1-7      6^th Section
Bodee Hovda                8^th                    1-2 

Graduates:
Riley Eidsmoe            15-8      2^nd Section      (115-63 Career)
Hunter Ziska                 9-20   4^th Section
Owen Gross                  5-14

FERTILE/BELTRAMI FALCONS
Head Coach: Chad Hitchen
Enrollment: 124
Conference: North Star
5-10 Overall Duals

Six Section Placers/One State Qualifier
Eight Place: Fertile “Northwest” Invite: 61 Pts. 5 Placers
Sixth Place: FB “Alfred Olson Memorial” Invite: 62 Pts. 4 Placers
Sixth Place: Barnesville “Trojans” Invite: 83 Pts. 6 Placers
Sixth Place: Larimore, ND Invite: 72 Pts. 4 Placers 

The Falcons will have back four section place winners, including one state qualifier and twelve with a wide range of experience. This young team should continue to make strides of improvement thru out the course of the season. Look for them to improve on their dual meet numbers from last season. Hunter Hitchen, Daunte Yost and Alex Smith should be their key leaders thru out the season.

Returning Wresters:
Hunter Hitchen            11^th                  21-16   2^nd Section
Daunte Yost                10^th                  22-14   4^th Section
Alex Smith                   12^th                  18-9
Levi Qualley                 9^th                  11-14   6^th Section
Damian Sudvangen      11^th                  11-20   5^th Section
Seth Lavalier                 9^th                    4-4
Gabe Horgeshimer      11^th                    4-13
Izaah Bennefeld          11^th                    4-6
Hunter Bjerk               11^th                    3-2
Justin Boit                   12^th                    4-19
Jude Olson                    9^th                    2-8
Wesley Romberg          8^th                    3-2
Ivan Nephew               11^th                    3-4
Alex Haas                    8^th                    2-1
Micah Tollefson            11^th                    3-0
Jasper Olson                11^th                    3-0 

Graduates:
Ross Hamre                 20-16               4^th Section 

RED LAKE COUNTY CENTRAL MUSTANGS
Head Coach: Kyle Dudycha
Enrollment: 87
Conference: North Star

Dual Meet Records Unknown

Ninth Place: FB “Alfred Olson Memorial” Invite: 48 Pts. 5 Placers
Eleventh Place: Crookston “Rod Olson” Invite: 43 Pts. 5 Placers
Ninth Place: Fertile “Northwest” Invite: 46 Pts. 4 Placers 

Returning Wrestlers:
Damon Ferguson           8^th                  17-9                 4^th Section
Tristyn Ferguson         10^th                  13-13   4^th Section
George Duden            10^th                  12-17   5^th Section
Paul DeHate                 9^th                    8-20
Gunnar Sundeen           8^th                    2-15
Oscar Duden                 8^th                    1-15 

Graduates:
Nick Pahlen                 12-5                 3^rd Section
Bryce Bergerson           1-14

MAHNOMEN-WAUBUN COUGERS
Head Coach: John Short
Enrollment: 113 Mahnomen/108 Waubun
Conference: Independent  
Dual Meet Records Unknown

Seventh Place: LPA “Terry Teiken” Invite: 72 Pts. 6 Placer
Tent Place: Crookston “Rod Olson” Invite: 44 Pts. 6 Placers
 
Returning Wrestlers:
Adam Syverson           12^th                  23-17   4^th Section
Chase Dorman            12^th                  18-19   4^th Section
Garret Eiynck              10^th                  15-20   5^th Section
Will Olson                    9^th                  13-24   6^th Section
Kris Cukla                    8^th                  12-17   6^th Section
Shae Yates                  11^th                    6-17
Blake Gerey                  9^th                    5-19 

Graduates:
Nick Podlak                26-15   2^nd Section
Sam Olson                  25-12   3^rd Section

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The University of Minnesota Crookston Baseball team will host a hitting/defensive camp ain Crookston on February 10 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. for grades 9-12. The hitting camp will cover all aspects of becoming a fundamentally sound offensive player. The instructional camp will break down each individual camper from the physical to mental side of hitting. Barrel control, bat path and bat speed will be emphasized. Cost is $75 for the individual camp. The Golden Eagles are also holding a pitching/catching camp on the Minnesota Crookston campus February 10 from 1-3:30 p.m. The pitching and catching camp will include instruction from MLB Draft Pick Zach Seipel, who pitches in the Atlanta Braves organization. Seipel is a former Minnesota Crookston student-athlete. An emphasis will be placed on lower-half development and generating pitching velocity. The cost of the camp is $75 or $125 to do both the pitching and hitting camps.

Lastly, UMC Baseball is offering a kid’s camp February 18, which is President’s Day, for grades K-5 from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. on the University of Minnesota Crookston campus. The kid’s camp will center around fundamentals of baseball and fun. Skills include hitting, throwing and fielding. All activities will be broken down by age and skill level. The cost of the camp is $30. The camp

The camps will be coached by Head Coach Steve Gust, assistant coaches Taylor Steen and Colton Haight, along with Seipel, reining NSIC Player of the Year Reed Hjelle, along with other Minnesota Crookston players. To register for the camps visit http://baseball.umcsportscamps.com/index.cfm. If you have any questions contact Coach Gust at sjgust@umn.edu or Coach Steen at tsteen@umn.edu.  

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