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Month: August 2020

Returning Class 6 runner-up Joplin Eagles open the season against reigning Class 4 state champion Webb City Cardinals

Posted on by Lucas Davis

What a way to kick off the prep football season.

The reigning Class 4 state champion Webb City Cardinals travel to Junge Field to take on the Class 6 runner-up Joplin Eagles in a 7 p.m. season opener to remember.

“I think it is how hard and physical they play,” Joplin coach Curtis Jasper said when asked what trait every Webb City team has that is coached by John Roderique. “We’ve talked about it before, but their offensive line always explodes off the ball and their defensive players always play hard and are very fundamental. They are a very physical and a fundamentally-sound football team.”

This will be the first time the Eagles step onto the field in a game that counts since finishing second in the state at the Class 6 level a year ago. But this game was very much in doubt leading up to the season because of concerns dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. With the season in doubt, getting a chance to take the field in 2020 is something the Eagles will not take for granted.

“Everybody is excited,” Jasper said. “We know how lucky we are to be playing a game, period. Getting to line up against one of our rivals Week 1 is an opportunity we feel lucky to have.

“This week of practice has been really good. I feel like our scout teams have improved tremendously and given us really good looks. I think our kids are dialed in and have good practices all week.”

Leading up to the season opener, there have been some adjustments made outside of the football field. With school now in session, Joplin coaches and players are also trying to navigate the proper safety measures for academia. 

“The school day has been different with it being an A-B schedule,” Jasper said. “So, that takes a transition, but I feel like it is working really well so far. The plan our administration has laid out for the school year has been fantastic. As far as once we get to the football field, that feels normal. You get to the football field and it just feels awesome. Obviously, we are taking all of the precautions, but it’s still football, and it just feels really great being able to go out and work with the kids.”

Focusing on the field, Joplin has five new starters on offense and six new starters on defense. With 11 players making their debut at the varsity level this week, making sure they are prepared has been a point of emphasis for the Joplin coaching staff.

“We want them to lean on their preparation,” Jasper said. “We’ve had a good summer, even with all of the craziness going on. We have had three good weeks of practice. So, be confident in your preparation, be confident in your game plan, relax, and go out and execute.”

Webb City brings an option offense that is always difficult to defend. The biggest task for the Eagles will be slowing down Cardinals senior running back Devrin Weathers, a three-year starter at the position and a Kansas State commit. 

“We have to be very sound in our responsibilities for the option,” Jasper said. “We have to match and exceed their physicality and intensity up front. We have to get everybody to the football and tackle well as a team.”

For the Joplin offense, there will be several new faces in the playmaker positions with the team looking to replace QB Blake Tash, RB Isaiah Davis and WR Zach Westomoreland from graduation. Junior Always Wright will be starting at quarterback, with senior Nathan Glades starting at running back. Glades finished last season with 73 carries for 471 yards and five touchdowns, adding 37 receptions for 508 yards and three touchdowns in the passing attack. Senior Trayshawn Thomas (13 catches, 199 yards, three touchdowns in 2019), juniors Keaton Renfo (12 catches, 185 yards, two touchdowns in 2019), Bruce Wilbert and sophomore Dante Washington will be the starting wideouts for the Eagles.

Joplin’s offensive line will be anchored by senior left tackle Alex Curry — a first-team all-area, conference, district and state lineman — senior center Sergio Piniero — a first-team all-district center — and senior right tackle Davis Ramsey.

“I think the main thing for us to understand is there are going to be two good teams on the football field facing adversity,” Jasper said. “We want to take care of the football, but whatever adversity hits, we want to be able to shake it and move on. When two good teams meet, there are going to be some things you have to stay calm and battle through. The team that does that best will be successful.” 

In a matchup of two of the top teams from their respective classes a year ago, that atmosphere in the stands come game time would normally be exhilarating. However, with the concern for COVID-19 across the country, teams who are lucky enough to play are limiting the capacity of fans attending sporting events.

For the Webb City-Joplin game, Junge will be filled to roughly half capacity (or 2,000 fans) to allow for proper social distancing measures to be taken. Though that is considerably less than what it would have been in a normal year, 2020 is anything but normal, and the Eagles are just grateful to be playing in front of fans at all.

“I try to focus on the positive side of it,” Jasper said. “I recently spoke with an athletic director in another part of the state who said they were only allowing 50 people total in the stands. There was another who said they were allowing just 20 percent. And another coach told me they just had their first day of practice on Monday.

“So, with all of that going on, you just kind of put the other stuff out of your head. We are focusing on A, getting to play, and B, 50-percent capacity is a lot better than in other places. But, the bottom line is that whatever the attendance is, that doesn’t affect what we are trying to accomplish as a team, or the opportunity that we have to be able to play this game and face off against a great opponent.”

HOW TO WATCH 

Fox Sports Joplin’s live stream for Friday’s game can be found here: http://www.citylinktv.com/channel/joplin-web-tv/. 

 

 

MARQUEE MATCHUP: Webb City set for Week 1 clash with Joplin

Posted on by Jason Peake

After concerns over the possible impact of the coronavirus pandemic lingered for months, there’s good news—Week 1 of the 2020 prep football season has officially arrived in Southwest Missouri.  

And we’re treated to a marquee matchup right away. 

Class 4 defending state champion Webb City travels to Joplin, last year’s Class 6 runner-up, on Friday night in an intriguing season opener at Junge Field. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. 

Webb City coach John Roderique noted he’s more than pleased his team will get the opportunity to play the Week 1 contest, as teams in the St. Louis are not yet able to play while other states have pushed fall sports to the spring. 

“We appreciate the opportunity to play,” Roderique said. “Some teams are unable to play. It goes back to the values of athletics and what it means to work with kids. It’s huge just to have the opportunity to play.” 

Unlike the last two meetings, which the visiting team won on both occasions, this year’s clash will not be contested in front of a huge crowd. 

There will only be 2,000 fans in attendance on Friday due to concerns over the spread of the coronavirus, with face coverings mandatory and social distancing encouraged. 

No tickets will be sold to the general public. Joplin High School is distributing 1,250 tickets to parents, staff and students, while Webb City will have 750 tickets to hand out. 

Roderique noted a smaller crowd shouldn’t have an impact on the game’s result. 

“I don’t think that’s going to be a huge factor for our kids,” he said. “It’s still just about going out there, playing hard and having fun.”  

As far as basic keys to the game, Webb City’s offense will need to sustain drives and limit turnovers and penalties. 

Of course, the Webb City offense features Kansas State recruit Devrin Weathers at running back and Arkansas State commit Gary Clinton at tight end. Both Eli Goddard and Cole Gayman are expected to see reps under center. 

The Webb City defense, led by all-state defensive back Treghan Parker, will need to limit Joplin’s big plays. 

“They’ve got a tremendous amount of speed,” Roderique said of the Eagles. “The (Nathan) Glades kid is an exceptional athlete. Their receivers and their quarterback (Always Wright) are good athletes. I’m impressed with their overall athleticism and speed after replacing a lot of guys from last year. They’re an impressive looking team. It’s hard to emulate their offense in practice, so it’s a matter of learning on the run. The speed of the game changes at this point, and big plays are always a big factor.”  

Webb City quarterback Cole Gayman (10) talks to his offense during last Friday’s jamboree. Gayman and Eli Goddard are both expected to see reps under center on Friday night against Joplin.

LAST YEAR’S MEETING 

On a night they were playing with heavy hearts after the death of Kadin Roberts-Day just days earlier, the Eagles earned a 35-28 win over the Cardinals in front of nearly 7,500 fans at a packed Cardinal Stadium. 

In a touching scene, the two teams game together before the clash. 

Despite holding the Eagles to one touchdown in the second half, Webb City was unable to overcome five turnovers. It was Joplin’s first win over Webb City since 1990. 

HOW TO WATCH 

Fox Sports Joplin’s live stream for Friday’s game can be found here: http://www.citylinktv.com/channel/joplin-web-tv/. 

 

MORE ON WEBB CITY: https://somo-sports.com/highlights/2020-football-preview-defending-champion-webb-city-cardinals-reloaded-again/

Joplin’s Saunders moves to setter for senior year

Posted on by Jason Peake

Transitioning to a new position on the volleyball court is never easy, especially for a three-year starter.

But Addison Saunders is making the move from right side hitter to setter this fall for the Joplin High School volleyball team.

With that, the 5-foot-9 Saunders is going from attacking and blocking at the net to setting up her teammates. 

“I think it’s pretty hard to do,” Joplin coach Staci Saunders said of the position change. “You don’t see a change like that happen much. Addison did set with her club team this offseason to get ready. She’s worked really hard all summer and she’s a student of the game.” 

The setter position is a demanding one. 

The setter must be able to see the game develop like a quarterback. Constantly hustling all over the court, the setter must communicate well with teammates and must be able to put the team’s attackers in position to have success at the net.

“Addison is still learning the position, but there’s something that beats in her chest…she’s just a winner,” Coach Saunders said. “She plays hard and she plays to win. She’s a leader and she’s fun to coach.” 

Addison Saunders is taking over the setter position after her older sister and multi-year starter, Mari Katheryn Saunders, graduated.

“I think Addison has kind of been in her sister’s shadow, so it’s been fun to see her blossom,” Coach Saunders said, adding that Addison will at times see some playing time at right side hitter when Baileigh Riley plays setter. “She’s taking over a leadership role and she just gets the job done.”

Joplin senior Addison Saunders celebrates with her teammates during Tuesday’s jamboree at Carthage High School.

Addison Saunders got her first taste of playing setter against an opponent when the Eagles attended Carthage’s jamboree on Tuesday night. 

By her play on the court, it was hard to tell she’s relatively new to the setter position. 

“It’s been a pretty smooth transition,” Addison Saunders said. “There have been some bumps in the road. There are some things I can work on, but I think it’s gone pretty well. The setter is definitely the leader of the team and I definitely want to lead this team.”  

Joplin opens the season on Sept. 1 at Rogers-Heritage. 

And when the Eagles take the court, a member of the Saunders family will once again be starting at the crucial setter position. 

“We’re going to practice hard, play hard and give everything we’ve got this year,” Addison said. 

 

Addison Saunders

JAMBOREE SUCCESS

The Eagles swept three scrimmages at Tuesday’s jamboree, going 2-0 against Nevada, Aurora and Carthage. 

Host Carthage also earned wins over Nevada (25-23, 25-14) and Aurora (25-17, 25-16) before taking on Joplin. 

In the finale, the Eagles won the opening set 25-16 before rallying for a 30-28 come-from-behind victory in the second set.

“I’m very proud of our girls,” Coach Saunders said. “We rose to the occasion at the end. They just kept fighting. We served tough. In all three games, whoever had the better serve-receive won.”

Coach Saunders noted the three wins should be a confidence boost for her squad. 

“I feel like we’re going to sneak up on some people,” she said. “Everybody knows their job on this team. They know it takes every one of them for us to be successful. Tonight was a perfect example of that.” 

 

Neosho softball eager to repeat success in 2020

Posted on by Lucas Davis

Catie Cummins’ Neosho Wildcats are in prime position to repeat their strong performance from a year ago again in 2020.

Coming off an 18-8 record last season, Neosho returns a bevy of difference makers, led by all-conference performers Kaitlyn Killion and McKaylie Forrest. Killion, a junior outfielder, hit .432 and scored 26 runs a year ago, while Forrest, a sophomore backstop who could see time on the infield, hit .424 with 22 RBI in 2019.

“(McKaylie) is a pretty good third baseman and shortstop, so when we are looking to give her legs a break, we might see her on the infield,” Cummins said. “Kaitlyn is a two-time unanimous all-COC player, and to not miss a vote as an outfielder in that conference in your first two years is incredible.”

Junior OF Lili Graue returns after hitting .367 in 2019, along with junior utility player Alivia Campbell, who also hit .367 a year ago. Also back for the Wildcats in her senior season is starting shortstop Sierra Jones, who finished last season with a .384 average at the plate. Junior UT Maddie Carpenter figures to see plenty of action at third base this season for Neosho.

Sophomore Maelynn Garrett figures to start at first base, with sophomores Abbie Carpenter, Baylie Bowers and freshman Tatiyana Douglas also planning to see varsity time this season.

“This season is going to be really exciting,” Cummins said. “We only have two seniors and four juniors. Then, we have 12 sophomores. … It’s a competition in that (sophomore class) to see who is going to perform.”

IN THE CIRCLE

Senior Brittany Winchester, who finished with a 3-1 record a year ago, will be looked at as the ace for the Wildcats. She also hit .333 at the plate as a junior. Sophomore Chloe Patterson will also be in the mix for innings with others in the circle as well, which is an area that Cummins believes will be one of the team’s biggest strengths.

“We know you have to work ahead (in the count),” Cummins said. “We cannot work from behind because we will not be setting ourselves up for success if we do that. I think our pitching will be very consistent this season.”

Of course, Neosho will also be relying heavily on its defense to make plays with a pitching staff that performs better when pitching to contact instead of going for a strikeout every at-bat.

“We are not going to have a lot of strikeouts as a staff, but I tell our pitchers all the time, ‘we don’t need strikeouts to get people out,’” Cummins said. “We are going to have a lot of ground balls and pop-ups. So, that is where we are going to look at our defense to back up our pitchers as they work it around the zone.”

PLENTY OF OFFENSE

Cummins also believes the Wildcats will not have a problem scoring runs this season, as she feels the offense will be another strength for the team in 2020. Forrest will likely see plenty of RBI opportunities this year hitting third in the lineup for Neosho. Though, there has been talk of using her in the leadoff spot if needed.

“She gets on base all the time,” Cummins said of Forrest. “It makes sense to (let her leadoff), but if we can’t get those runs pushed in behind her, then it doesn’t make sense. So, that is something we are going to see how it plays out and what we feel good about.”

Maddie Carpenter will also be relied on to drive in runs in the middle of the lineup for the Wildcats.

 

SEASON OPENER

Noesho opens the season on the road with a 4:30 p.m. matchup at Monett on Aug. 31.

“Picking up that first win is such a sense of relief for the kids,” Cummins said. “So, we need to try to jump on that early to get that first win … and just kind of take that momentum and keep it rolling.”

A bevy of returning starters has Thompson excited for his second season leading Joplin soccer

Posted on by Lucas Davis

After going 13-10 a year ago in his first season in charge of Joplin soccer, Josh Thompson is looking forward to seeing how his team improves in 2020.

“It meant a lot,” Thompson said of his first year as the head coach. “I had been with the team for three or four years prior to that. Getting to take over for what was my first group of freshmen to seniors, that was a big first year and it really helped me out already having a relationship with the players. There was a little bit of a learning curve, but I had the girls’ team the season before that, so that also helped.”

There were several things to like about the 2019 Joplin Eagles, and that includes their aggressiveness on offense. That mindset is something Thompson wants to see this year’s team carry over into 2020.

“I think we had a good attacking mindset a lot of the time,” Thompson said. “We were able to produce a lot of goals in quite a few games. We did lose our leading scorer from last year, with Rashawn (Davis) leaving, but I think a lot of the younger players who got playing time last year will be able to keep up with that momentum.”

Joplin has eight returning starters along with several others who have varsity experience coming back, which will be a driving force for the Eagles.

“It’s really big (to have that experience returning),” Thompson said. “I am excited about this year, and next year even. We have a really small senior class, and even though those guys will be really influential for us, that means these next two years we have junior and senior classes that will have a ton of experience. Especially this junior class, a lot of them have been getting varsity time since their freshman year and starting since their sophomore year.”

The Eagles have four seniors — F Brady Carter, M Connor Simon, D Josh Yarnall and D/F Preston Stockton — eight juniors, eight sophomores and two freshmen this season. 

“Brady Carter is coming back to the team for the first time since his freshman year,” Thompson said. “He has a lot of speed and talent up top, and he has a nose for the goal. We are excited to see what he can do. Connor Simon has been starting games for us since his freshman year. Josh Yarnall is really our only returning starter from the back line. He was a captain last year, and he will help anchor the defense.”

Joplin’s junior class is made up of D/M Grayson Stovern, M Dilan Sanchez, M/F Andrew Taylor, M Roberto Reyes, M Eric Nelson, F Gabe DeLeon, D Abe Montanez and D Noah Pearson.

It will be a new look in goal for the Eagles this season, as an injury will force a first-year player with the program to be tasked with limiting the oppositions’ scoring opportunities to open the year. 

“We are going to have a freshman starting in goal to start the season,” Thompson said. “Brayden Anderson is starting out in goal, so that is a big responsibility for a freshman to come in and step up to that. He has been eager to give it a shot.”

Of course, with the inexperience in goal for Joplin, the Eagles will rely on its biggest strength to take pressure off Anderson as he gets his feet wet at the varsity level.

“The group that we have, the players that we have, they all just get along,” Thompson said. “They have been playing together for a long time. (Our strength) is going to be unity and that team mentality. I think that will take us a long way. We have a lot of resilience with this group.”

 

“I am really excited because we have a lot returning in the midfield and on the attack,” Thompson added. “And the defense, for how much turnover we have from a year ago, I am excited to see what the group will do.”

Joplin opens the season on the road with a 6:30 p.m. matchup at Carl Junction on Sept. 1.

CHECKING EVERY BOX: Webb City’s Gary Clinton stands out at tight end

Posted on by Jason Peake

Gary Clinton possesses all the attributes that define a standout tight end.

That’s not only the opinion of longtime Webb City football coach John Roderique, but also the assessment of a large number of NCAA Division I coaching staffs.

A 6-foot-4, 230-pound senior who earned all-state and all-conference recognition a year ago, Clinton will once again be a key performer for the Class 4 defending state champion Cardinals. 

“Gary’s such a diverse player for us,” Roderique said. “His speed is good, he’s got size, he’s athletic and he’s smart. He’s a real weapon catching the football. For a tight end, he checks every box.”  

Clinton has shown the ability to catch passes in traffic, and with his size, is tough to bring down. In 2019, Clinton hauled in seven passes for 119 yards and two scores. He had 105 receiving yards as a sophomore. 

But those statistics don’t tell the whole story of Clinton’s contributions. 

Clinton’s superb blocking ability against opposing defenses will continue to be crucial to Webb City’s successful running attack. 

Gary Clinton

Clinton approaches the game with a workmanlike mindset.

“I just want to make an impact with our passing game and with our running game,” Clinton said at the conclusion of last Friday’s jamboree at Cardinal Stadium. “With us, it all starts with the running game. It all starts up front, so I have to be physical to help our running game. I just try to get my job done. And now that I’m a senior, I want to be more of a leader.” 

Arguably the top prep tight end in Southwest Missouri, Clinton received numerous college offers before verbally committing to NCAA Division I Arkansas State last month. 

So why Arkansas State?

“I have family down there and I know a couple people who are going to school there,” Clinton said, noting that Carthage lineman Aiden Logan also verbally committed to the school located in Jonesboro. “I definitely liked the coaching staff. They’re all very nice. They’re all Christians and just down to earth guys who will talk to you and help you get better.”

Clinton also received offers from Army, Missouri State, Southeast Missouri State, Western Illinois, Eastern Illinois, Southern Illinois, Illinois State, Northern Iowa, Murray State and Northern Colorado before deciding on the Red Wolves of the Sun Belt Conference. 

“I’m really excited for him,” Roderique said. “Dalton Ford went there a few years ago, so we’re familiar with their program. I have a lot of respect for (Arkansas State Head Coach) Blake Anderson and what he does there. I couldn’t be happier for Gary.” 

According to 247Sports, Clinton also received recruiting interest from Missouri, Kansas State, Louisville, Colorado and Memphis. 

On 247Sports’s Class of 2021 rankings for the state of Missouri, Clinton is listed at No. 43 (teammate Devrin Weathers is No. 21 and Carthage’s Logan is No. 27). 

Roderique noted Clinton will become a D-I player because he steadily improved throughout his prep career.

“He’s gotten better every year because he’s worked his butt off on the field, off the field with his conditioning and he’s worked his butt off in the weight room,” Roderique said. “It makes you happy to see a kid grow and develop like that. He’s also a great young man.”

Roderique added Clinton will definitely leave his mark on Webb City’s tradition-rich program.

“He’s as good at tight end as we’ve ever had here,” Roderique said. 

With his college decision out of the way, Clinton can once again focus on playing a key role for the Cardinals, who begin the season on Friday night at Joplin’s Junge Field.

Clinton said the team’s goals for the fall are simple.  

“We’re chasing another ring,” Clinton said. “And we’d really like to go 15-0.”

 

Neosho tennis team making progress

Posted on by Jason Peake

Two returning starters are expected to lead the way for the Neosho High School girls tennis team this fall.

Senior Michelle Lindsay and sophomore Emily Lemus are the team’s returning starters. 

The pair should occupy the team’s top singles positions while likely forming a No. 1 doubles team.

Neosho coach Nicholas Hays said the rest of this year’s varsity lineup will consist of players who gained junior varsity experience a year ago. Those spots are still up for grabs as the season approaches.

Hays listed junior Jasmine Martinez and sophomore Mariana Anaya as two players who could contribute at the varsity level this fall.

Hays said he’s seen steady improvements from a number of players thus far.

“Practices are going well,” Hays said. “It’s always nice to see a brand new player improve dramatically over that first couple of weeks of practice. The trick obviously is to try and develop good habits so that they continue to improve and not plateau too early.”

Hays added there’s a lot to like about the group.

“They are all great student-athletes,” he said. “They will help each other out whenever needed and will do whatever is asked of them as well. I look forward to spending the next several weeks with this group.”

The Wildcats are scheduled to begin the season on Aug. 31 at Aurora. 

 

Former standout Coltharp takes over tennis program at Carl Junction

Posted on by Jason Peake

Just five years ago, Ben Coltharp was leading the Carl Junction tennis program with his stellar play on the court.

Coltharp is now leading the Bulldogs in a different way — as the program’s new head coach.

“As a player at Carl Junction, I didn’t really imagine that one day I would take over the reins of the same tennis program,” Coltharp said. “I hope that I can provide the same passion and knowledge of the sport to all of my players.”

Coltharp replaces Adam Neldeberg, who resigned last spring after nine years at the helm of both the girls and boys teams.

Playing for Neldeberg, Coltharp was a four-year letterwinner, a three-time state qualifier and was the team’s top performer throughout his prep career. 

Coltharp also made history within the program.

Tennis was added at Carl Junction during the 2009-10 school year. And in 2013, the doubles team of Coltharp and Andy Gloshen became the first state tournament qualifiers in program history.

One year later, Coltharp was the program’s first state qualifier in singles. 

In 2015, Coltharp and Jensen Smith advanced to state in doubles. 

 

Now, Coltharp is leading Carl Junction’s girls through preseason practices. 

Carl Junction’s top returning players are seniors Hannah Clinage, Mariah Barnett and Hope Sponsel and juniors Nicole Sherwood and Valeria Poor.

Freshman Jenna Besperat is expected to occupy the team’s sixth varsity spot. 

“It’s great to have young talent getting that varsity experience,” Coltharp said. 

Coltharp said he’s been pleased with the team’s effort and improvements in practice.

“I enjoy how much the players visibly enjoy hitting good shots, battling out a tough rally, and getting better, bit by bit,” Coltharp said. 

Carl Junction will begin the season with a dual against College Heights at 4 on Friday at the Joplin Athletic Complex. 

TENNIS NOTES

Girls tennis in Missouri is expanding from two to three classes this season.

Classifications and district assignments won’t be released until Sept. 18. 

The state tennis tournament will span two weekends at Cooper Tennis Complex in Springfield this year. The individual state tourney will be held Oct. 15-17, with the team championships running Oct. 23-24.

 

Experience on defense and in the circle to lead Carl Junction softball in 2020

Posted on by Lucas Davis

Carl Junction softball has seven returning starters for the 2020 season, and that experience is going to be a driving force for the Bulldogs.

“This is the first year in a while where we have this much returning experience,” CJ coach Zak Petty said. “That is going to have a big impact for us, especially leadership-wise.”

Seniors Kacie Ford, Kalyssa Hagston, Bryn Neria, Kaitlyn Nease, Saedra Allen and Jayden Green headline the list of varsity contributors. 

“I feel like having that many seniors return, we are going to be able to pick it up pretty quick out of the gate in terms of getting the early-season jitters out of the way early,” Petty said. “One of our biggest strengths will be experience. When those big games come around, that is going to be a positive for us.”

IN THE CIRCLE

Allen figures to be the No. 1 pitcher heading into the season for Carl Junction. After a strong close to the 2019 season, Petty believes she has turned the corner coming into her senior season.

“She worked her way into being our No. 1 pitcher by the end of the season and ended up working both of our district games last season,” Petty said. “Over the summer, and through some early scrimmages this season, we can tell she has turned into a very solid pitcher. Right now, we think she is comparable to the other COC schools’ No. 1 pitchers.”

Also expected to help extensively in the circle is Green, who will be looked at as the main pitcher in relief as well as seeing spot starts when needed.

“We won’t skip a beat when Jayden is out there,” Petty said. “Jayden is geared towards being really good for two or three solid innings, and she is really good in that timespan. This is the first time I think I have ever felt really good about being 100 percent confident with both of our pitchers anytime they are out there.”

PITCHER’S BEST FRIEND

The Bulldogs’ biggest strength this season will be team defense. With a bevy of returning starters from last season, Coach Petty believes that continuity will greatly benefit his girls.

“Our entire starting infield minus third base is back from last year,” Petty said. “I think our defense is going to be our No. 1 strength as a team. We can do a lot of different things defensively.”

Nease, who missed her junior season with a knee injury, and junior Tavia Rodriguez will be battling it out in the competition for third base. 

Junior Allison Plumlee returns as the starting catcher for the third straight season, while Neria returns to first base for the third straight season for the Bulldogs. Ford will be the starting second baseman, with sophomore Sammie Sims back as the starting shortstop. 

In the outfield, junior Addie Brock figures to start in right field after holding a utility role last season, with Hagston roaming center field in her fourth year as a starter. There will be a competition in left field between junior Delanynie Hallacy and freshman Hannah Cantrell.

OFFSEASON FOCUS

Offensive production has been a focus for Petty in the offseason. He wants to see his team improve on the lack of timely production from a season ago.

“We struck out way too many times last year, and that was kind of our downfall,” Petty said. “We didn’t really have an issue getting people on base, but we just couldn’t get those timely hits. We have some speed at the top of the lineup and some thumpers in the middle to drive them in, but our bottom half of the lineup is going to need to figure it out a little bit. If we want to be successful, we need to be better at consistently putting the ball in play.”

NEWCOMERS

Cantrell looks to be the biggest contributor as far as newcomers are concerned in her first season at the high school level.

“She is a multi-sport athlete who we have planned on coming up and contributing for us for a couple of years now,” Petty said. “She is probably the most athletic player we have.”

 Freshman Isabelle Southern, the backup first baseman, will be called upon to drive in runs for Carl Junction, as one of the power bats for the Bulldogs.

“She is going to be coming off the bench getting varsity at-bats,” Petty said. “She hasn’t played softball since the 6th grade, but she played this summer and is so strong. She has so much room to grow as a softball player, so we are excited for what she brings.”

TAKING NOTHING FOR GRANTED

With the COVID-19 pandemic still a serious issue, the six seniors for the Bulldogs understand their season could be cut short at any time. With that in mind, Petty has talked with them about cherishing every game they get to partake in. 

“We remind them all the time that there are things going on in the world outside of us that we can’t control,” Petty said. “With their leadership, our seniors are really good about leading by example in terms of the pandemic protocols like wearing masks and social distancing. They keep each other in check.

“It is going to be a different senior year, and they saw the spring sports canceled last season. I think that makes them realize how special it is that they get to go out and play. We are taking this one day at a time, one game at a time. It’s a good group of seniors to have for this moment. They are going to be positive and realistic about expectations.”

Carl Junction opens the season at Reeds Springs on Friday before traveling to Cassville on Aug. 31. Both games are scheduled for 4:30 p.m. start times. When asked what is the key to start the season off strong, Petty reiterated how important pitching and defense will be for his Bulldogs.

“I think we’re really counting on our pitchers to control the game and make things easy for our defense,” Petty said. “We want to take pressure off the offense that might need a few games to get established. If we can do that, we can focus on execution. If our pitchers, and the defense, can go out and dominate, that will be a big plus.”

Competition and work ethic key for Joplin softball in 2020

Posted on by Lucas Davis

Competition.

That is the theme for Joplin as the 2020 softball season approaches.

The Eagles bring back three seniors — Brittany Shryock, Tatum Stogsdill and Kami Manning — and three juniors — Ryleigh Surridge, Elizabeth Snider and Madisyn Tracy — to this year’s squad, which means there will be plenty of opportunities for the six underclassmen (two sophomores and four freshmen) to see extensive playing time on the diamond.

“We have an open competition at every spot, and we are going to play the best nine girls,” Joplin coach Manny Flores said. “If it’s nine freshmen, it’s nine freshmen. We just want to build a competitive atmosphere amongst our girls. We have some younger girls who are really pushing our older girls, and that is nice to see.”

Flores, who enters his second season at the helm of Joplin softball, said last year’s end to the season, when the Eagles won four of their final eight games, was invaluable for the team moving forward.

“That first year, we were really just feeling each other out,” Flores said of his first season leading the Eagles. “They really began to understand the expectations towards the end of the season. I think the end of last season meant a lot to them because it showed we were getting better every single day. I think that carried over into the summer, and we have a great group of girls coming in to push some of our older players.”

SIGNIFICANT SUMMER

This summer was special for the Joplin softball program in particular because Flores established Talon softball, a summer program dedicated to the Joplin area for several age groups.

“What we wanted to do was have a program for every girl in Joplin who wanted to play softball that will be competing together at the high school level,” Flores said. “We want them to play together as long as possible. We had an 18u, a 14u, a 12u and a 8u team this summer. It was just a way for us to go out and compete competitively.”

What made the Talon softball program even more special was the willingness of Missouri Southern softball to help in any way possible.

“We had Missouri Southern players coach our 14u and 18u teams, and I think that was a huge benefit,” Flores said. “One of my goals coming here was to bridge the gap between our college athletes at Missouri Southern all the way down to our youth teams. I really wanted continuity, and this summer was a great start to that. (MSSU) Coach (Hallie) Blackney did an awesome job helping us out and allowing us to use her field. I think it is going to benefit us greatly moving forward, and it is going to help us develop a strong relationship with Missouri Southern as well.”

IN THE CIRCLE

Shryock, Tracy and sophomore Jill McDaniel figure to see the majority of the innings in the circle for the Eagles this season.

“Honestly, we have an open competition right now,” Flores said. “We’re just going to let that play out. Each girl is going to get her opportunity to showcase what she has. If it’s pitching-by-committee to start out before someone steps up, then that is what happens.”

NEWCOMERS

Freshman Bailey Ledford figures to be a strong contributor at the varsity level for the Eagles this season.

“She is a girl who has some speed,” Flores said. “She can slap, she can power slap, she can steal bags and we can move her all over the field defensively. She is going to fill any role that we ask of her this year.”

Freshman Abby McGinnis is a left-handed first baseman that will be relied on to drive in runs. Freshman Kirsten McMillen could see time at catcher or in the outfield, while freshman Ashley Phillips will see varsity time in the outfield this season. 

Obviously, starting as many as four freshmen and two sophomores invites the chances of growing pains, and Flores is well aware of that possibility. His focus is making sure the girls have the right mentality heading into the season. 

“We as coaches have to make sure we do a good job of making sure we don’t get caught up in results,” Flores said. “One of the things with this generation is they want to see immediate results. We can’t get caught up in that. We have to have tunnel vision, focusing on getting better every day. I picked something up from Joplin baseball where we are now charting ways our girls are helping the team by doing the little things correctly. 

“The biggest thing I want the girls to do is play aggressive,” Flores said. “If we make mistakes, that is fine as long as we are being aggressive. If they are doing that, and we are getting better every day, this group has a chance to be special.”

HARD WORK PAYS OFF

When asked what his team’s strengths would be this season, Flores was adamant that the work ethic for his girls will be second to none. With the prospects of having a very young roster, he wants to instill what it takes to compete at a high level early in his players’ career.

“We are not going to get outworked,” Flores said. “We are going to make sure we are doing the little things correctly, outhustling the other team and putting ourselves in the correct position.

“I want us to be a team that is flexible. I want to try and take away other teams’ strengths. I think we are going to have a little more speed and be able to play small ball. We will be adaptive.”

SEASON OPENER

After taking on Carthage in the jamboree slated for Aug. 25, the Eagles open the regular season on the road with a Saturday twinbill at Glendale, taking on Nixa at 11:30 a.m. before battling the Falcons at 1:30 p.m.

COC FOOTBALL: 2020 composite schedule

Posted on by Jason Peake

Central Ozark Conference composite schedule for 2020

Aug. 28

Webb City at Joplin

Carl Junction at Willard

Ozark at Carthage

Republic at Neosho

Nixa at Branson

 

Sept. 4

Joplin at Nixa

Neosho at Webb City

Carthage at Carl Junction

Willard at Republic

Branson at Ozark

 

Sept. 11

Ozark at Joplin

Webb City at Republic

Carl Junction at Branson

Neosho at Carthage

Nixa at Willard

 

Sept. 18

Joplin at Carl Junction

Carthage at Webb City

Branson at Neosho

Republic at Nixa

Willard at Ozark

 

Sept. 25

Joplin at Willard

Carl Junction at Webb City

Branson at Carthage

Neosho at Nixa

Ozark at Republic

 

Oct. 2

Republic at Joplin

Webb City at Branson

Carl Junction at Neosho

Carthage at Willard

Nixa at Ozark

 

Oct. 9

Joplin at Carthage

Nixa at Webb City

Republic at Carl Junction

Ozark at Neosho

Willard at Branson

 

Oct. 16

Branson at Joplin

Webb City at Ozark

Carl Junction at Nixa

Carthage at Republic

Neosho at Willard

 

Oct. 23

Joplin at Neosho

Willard at Webb City

Ozark at Carl Junction

Nixa at Carthage

Republic at Branson

(End of regular season)

Joplin faces first opponent since state title game, hosts Seneca in jamboree

Posted on by Lucas Davis

It was roughly nine months since the last time the Joplin Eagles lined up against another opponent on the gridiron.

On Friday, the Eagles hosted the Seneca Indians for their annual jamboree, and just being able to get on the field and line up against another team was a blessing.

“Obviously, this is the first time we have gotten to face an opponent since the state championship game last year, and with all of the uncertainty going on, we feel very fortunate to come out here and get our jamboree in to prepare for Webb City next week,” Joplin coach Curtis Jasper said. 

Each team had three offensive and defensive series of 12 plays, with the ball starting on their own 40-yard line. 

Joplin’s offense took six plays to find paydirt when quarterback Always Wright found wideout Trayshawn Thomas in the back corner of the end zone for a touchdown on the opening possession. Wright completed three passes on the drive, with an 11-yard completion to Dante Washington and a 20-yard connection to Bruce Wilbert.

“I thought we clicked well on that first drive,” Jasper said. “I thought we were able to come out and work our tempo and did a good job of executing on the first drive.”

It took two plays for the Eagles to score on their second drive, with running back Nathan Glades breaking off a 51-yard rushing score.

“Nathan is going to be a special back this year,” Jasper said. “He did all the dirty work for us last year, so now it’s someone else’s turn for that. Now, it’s Nathan’s turn to chunk out some yards, so it was nice to see that from him.”

Joplin made it three possessions with three scores on the third series when Wright found Washington for a 46-yard touchdown. 

“We have a lot of playmakers, so it was nice to see Trayshawn, Dante and Bruce Wilbert have success,” Jasper said.

Seneca’s first offensive series was also a success. After a 35-yard completion from quarterback Lance Stephens to Sebastian Middick put the Indians in a goal-to-go situation, setting up a 3-yard touchdown run by Jaxson Graham. 

“We challenged them up front,” Seneca coach Ryan McFarland said of his offense. “Our goal on offense was to get first downs tonight, and we were able to do that. I thought our offensive line played well. We returned all five guys up front who started at least five games last year. That is something all offseason that we have preached to them, ‘we are going to be as good as they are’ (up front).

“Sebastian Middick made two big plays for us tonight. He played his first year of high school football last year as a junior. So no one really expects him to do much, but he has some tools and we are going to use them a lot this year.”

The Eagles’ defense forced a turnover on Seneca’s second drive when Wilbert came up with an interception on a Stephens’ deep ball.

“He starts for us on offense and is able to come in on situations on defense for us,” Jasper said.  “He is a definite ball hawk. He had an interception in the Red-White scrimmage and in the jamboree. He has really good ball skills, and that’s why he is a good receiver and a good safety.”

Joplin’s first drive on its second possession lasted seven plays but ended in a turnover when Wright was picked off by Seneca’s Dillon Myers in the red zone. Wright bounced back on the next series with a 25-yard touchdown pass on a screen to Glades.

“Always is very mentally tough and doesn’t get rattled,” Jasper said. “We expect that if he makes a mistake, he will be able to put it behind him and make a play the next time out. He did a really good job of that.”

Seneca found rushing room on its opening drive of its second possession. Graham carried the ball four times for 26 yards in addition to a 34-yard completion from Stephens to Middick, setting up a 1-yard sneak touchdown by Stephens.

“Having our quarterback back, Lance Stephens, who started every game for us last year, is big,” McFarland said. “He is a very smart kid and understands our offense well. … He put us in positions to be successful.”

“We made some good tackles, but we also missed some tackles,” Jasper said. “I am glad to have some film because now we can clean some things up.”

Joplin’s second unit took the third possession, with freshman quarterback All Wright, the younger brother of Always, completing a pass to Terrance Gibson for 15 yards, along with two completions of 17 and 9 yards to Landen Atherton. Senior running back Trayquan Peavler finished off the drive with a 3-yard rushing score.

Joplin opens the season at home next week with a matchup against the reigning Class 4 state champion Webb City Cardinals for a 7 p.m. kickoff at Junge Field.

“Webb City is a great program,” Jasper said. “We are excited for the opportunity to prepare for them and line up against them next week.”

Seneca is on the road for a 7 p.m. matchup at Marshfield.

“I have been more nervous about this night than anything all summer,” McFarland said. “Our goal as coaches was to get to tonight and give our kids a chance to play. We accomplished that. Now, we are going to throw everything at next week, and hopefully we get to play a football game. Hopefully, we get to keep playing (beyond next week), but if not, we don’t want to leave any regrets on the field.”

BACK ON THE FIELD: Webb City hosts Lamar for football jamboree

Posted on by Jason Peake

WEBB CITY, Mo. — A return to normalcy. 

That’s what the high school football jamboree between Webb City and Lamar provided for all those in attendance on Friday night inside Cardinal Stadium. 

And even if it was only a scrimmage, the event was a welcome sight for players, coaches and fans alike, as all summer long there were concerns over how the coronavirus pandemic would impact the fall season. 

“This is the most normal I’ve felt in about five months,” Webb City coach John Roderique said at the conclusion of the jamboree. “I think every kid and every coach would tell you the same thing. We’re still working, practicing and getting ready for a game, so that’s as normal as we’ve been in a long time.”

“There was a time when we didn’t know if we were even going to be able to do this jamboree or even put the pads and uniform on,” Roderique added. “That’s probably the biggest takeaway…just how much you enjoy the opportunity to come out and play. That’s the biggest thing.”

In the annual full-contact dress rehearsal held one week ahead of the season opener, Webb City scored the only two touchdowns of the evening.  

Seniors Cole Gayman and Eli Goddard both took turns running Webb City’s first-team offense from the quarterback position. Along with standout senior running back Devrin Weathers, junior Cade Wilson was a featured running back for the Cardinals.  

On the hosts’ first offensive series, Weathers capped a 10-play drive with a 2-yard touchdown run up the middle. The score was set up by passes to Wilson and senior Jacob Shonk, along with runs from Wilson and Goddard. 

The Cardinals also scored on their second drive. 

Junior Dupree Jackson and sophomore Colton Gordon had gains on the ground, while Goddard completed a pass to junior Eric Fitch. On the ninth play of the drive, senior Shane Noel scampered into the end zone from 15 yards out for the final score of the scrimmage.  

Webb City’s Dupree Jackson (28) carries the ball while Lamar’s Tyler Ansley (21) looks to make the stop during Friday night’s jamboree at Cardinal Stadium. Photo by Jason Peake.

 

Sophomore Landon Johnson saw time under center during the series.  

The Cardinals took the field against an opponent for the first time since winning the Class 4 Show-Me Bowl last December in Columbia. As always in this event, the Cardinals rotated lots of players in and out during the scrimmage.  

“About like every jamboree, we did some good things and we did some things that weren’t very good,” Roderique said. “The biggest deal is you get to go live against somebody else. That’s something that’s hard to emulate in practice.”  

Led by senior quarterback Case Tucker, Lamar threatened on its first drive of the night, but the Tigers were stopped by the Cardinal defense on the 4-yard line on the final play of the series. 

Tucker, senior Cade Griffith, juniors Trace Wilhite and Zaide Rice and sophomores Austin Wilkerson and Joel Beshore all had plenty of carries for the Tigers.  

The jamboree’s conclusion signaled a reality check to all those involved—it’s time to begin preparing for Week 1 contests. 

“We’ve had good practices,” Roderique said. “Camp’s been good. Summertime was good, so we feel pretty good right now. It’s just a matter of trying to work every day and trying to get better. Now it’s time to get better and improve. We talk about that process all the time. Most of our teams have been better at the end of the year than they are at the beginning. It takes daily work.” 

Webb City’s Eli Goddard (5) is tackled by a host of Lamar Tigers, including Case Tucker (16). Photo by Jason Peake.

NEW ERA IN LAMAR 

First-year Lamar coach Jared Beshore has taken over the reins of the Lamar football program. 

A Lamar native and former Tigers standout, Beshore noted the transition to head coach has been a seamless one. 

“The transition has been smooth because I have a great support system, the administration takes care of me and I have a great coaching staff around me,” Beshore said. “It’s been easier than it could have been.”   

Beshore said he was pleased with his team’s effort against the Cardinals, a perennial state power. 

“The takeaway for me is that our kids aren’t scared of anybody and that they’re going to compete,” Beshore said. “They came out here against the top program in the state of Missouri and they competed and showed enthusiasm. Our word this week was ‘believe.’ And I think they truly believe in themselves and they believe in this program.”  

Lamar travels to Springfield Catholic next Friday in the season opener. 

“We came out healthy tonight, so that makes me happy,” Beshore said. “We’re not satisfied completely. We’ve got some things to clean up, but I know we’ll work through those things.”  

PARKER COMMITS 

Webb City senior defensive back Treghan Parker has verbally committed to play baseball for Missouri Southern. 

Gayman had previously committed to Bryce Darnell’s Lions. Both Parker and Gayman are expected to be key performers for Flave Darnell’s Cardinals in the spring. 

WHAT’S NEXT? 

Webb City opens the season at Joplin on Friday, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. at Junge Field. 

The matchup will feature the defending Class 4 champion against last year’s Class 6 runner-up.  

“You’d probably rather start with somebody else instead of the defending champion in the conference,” Roderique said. “It is what it is. We’re excited to get ready to play Joplin. Their program has really developed over the years, and we know their coaching staff does a great job. That’s the one thing about our league…there’s a lot of really good teams in our conference, so you have to play everybody at some point.” 

 

MORE ON WEBB CITY: Defending champion Webb City Cardinals reloaded again

A RARE FEAT: K-State recruit Weathers set to become a three-year starter at running back for Webb City

Joplin swim team returns state medalists

Posted on by Jason Peake

The Joplin High School boys swim team returns a solid nucleus for the 2020 season.

Four members of the Eagles — seniors Ben Wardlow and Zane Reavley and sophomores Jacob Glenn and Zane Newman — earned all-state recognition at last year’s state swimming and diving championships. 

With that, the Eagles will feature four accomplished swimmers this fall. 

“They’re definitely going to be a big part of our team this year,” Joplin coach Ali Stauffer said of the foursome. “They’ve been working really hard, and I know they want to go back to state. That’s their goal. Those four will be part of our relays, and I know those guys would love to go to state as individuals, as well. They’ve already seen what state is like, they know what it takes to get there and they know what the competition is like. So getting back to state is what they’ll be working towards all season.”

Wardlow, Reavley and Newman swam legs on Joplin’s 200-yard freestyle relay team that earned all-state recognition by placing eighth at last year’s state swim meet in St. Peters. 

Reavley, Wardlow and Glenn swam on Joplin’s 200 medley relay team that finished 16th at state, earning honorable mention all-state honors. 

Newman, Reavley and Glenn were also part of the Eagles’ 400 free relay that took 25th in the prelims. 

Individually, Wardlow advanced to state in both the 50 and 100 freestyle last year. He placed 16th in the 100 and 24th in the 50. 

In addition to Wardlow and Reavley, Kohl Cooper, Jonah Hensley and Colin Vermillion are the team’s other seniors. All are expected to contribute nicely.

“Our other seniors have improved from last year and they’ve come into the season in better shape this year,” Stauffer said. “I think all of our seniors will play a part in our relays. There’s some competition right now. We have eight solid guys who are fighting for spots on the relays. We’ll see who earns those spots.” 

Freshman Ian Vermillion is a newcomer to watch.   

Stauffer said 14 athletes are out for the sport.

“It’s been going well,” Stauffer said of her team’s practices. “So far, so good. We practiced outdoors last week and now we’re practicing indoors at Southern. All of the boys have been working hard. We had a handful swim this summer, so they’ve come in already in pretty good shape. We’ve been working them hard, and hopefully that pays off. And hopefully we can have a full season.”

The team must overcome the loss of one of the program’s all-time greats, as the graduated Alex Crawford captured a state championship in the 100 freestyle and took second in the 100 breaststroke at last year’s state meet.

OUTDOOR INVITE

The Eagles will host the Joplin Outdoor Invitational on Sept. 3 at the Schifferdecker Family Aquatic Center. 

Eight teams will be in attendance at the team’s lone home meet. The diving competition will start at 2, with swimming events scheduled to begin around 3.

“It’s going to be really nice to start the season with an outdoor meet,” Stauffer said. “It’s been a couple of years since we hosted an outdoor meet, so it should be fun. Hopefully the weather cooperates.” 

 

JHS Swim Roster

Seniors—Kohl Cooper, Jonah Hensley, Zane Reavley, Colin Vermillion, Ben Wardlow.

Junior—Trevor Blanken.

Sophomores—Jacob Glenn, Devin Lawson, Zane Newman.

Freshmen—Ashton Crawford, Aidan Kester, Alex Kester, Jackson Mordica, Ian Vermillion.

2020 Football Preview: Carl Junction ready to bounce back in 2020

Posted on by Lucas Davis

Despite finishing last year with a 4-6 record, there is plenty to be excited about for the Carl Junction Bulldogs and eighth-year head coach Doug Buckmaster.

The Bulldogs won two of their final three regular season contests last year, and they return a bevy of starters on the offensive and defensive side of the ball in 2020.

Carl Junction’s offense returns nine starters, including a pair of quarterbacks with extensive varsity experience. Senior Drew Patterson is back after transitioning to quarterback last season, when he threw for 1,643 yards and 17 touchdowns, rushing for an additional 319 yards. Also back at the quarterback position is senior Alex Baker, who missed his junior season because of injury but started five games as a sophomore.

The Bulldogs return senior running back Brady Sims, who rushed for 524 yards and four touchdowns, while hauling in 10 receptions for 139 yards and another score in 10 starts last year.

Leading wide receiver Cole Stewart, a second-team all-conference and district selection, is back for his senior season after catching 36 passes for 657 yards and six touchdowns as a junior. Senior Mylas Derfelt, the starting slot receiver, also returns to bolster the pass-catching unit. Noah Southern, a third-team all-conference selection last season, is back for his senior season after catching 32 passes for 366 yards and five touchdowns a year ago.

The offensive line could be the Bulldogs’ biggest strength this season. Carl Junction returns senior center Ethan Howard, who started as a sophomore before missing all of last season because of injury. Senior right guard Reese Bonjour returns after starting every game last season, and junior right tackle Jesse Cassatt is back as the starter.

The strength of Carl Junction’s defense will be in its secondary, where three returning starters are back. Jack Colgin, a third-team all-conference selection at outside linebacker, will transition to the secondary. Senior Trentyn Lehman started every game at safety last season and will transition to cornerback in 2020, with Stewart also returning as a starting corner.

Senior Hunter Row started all 11 games at the linebacker position last season and will anchor the unit in 2020 along with Southern, a first-team all-district linebacker a year ago. Cassatt also returns to the defensive end position where he was third-team Class 4 all-state selection as well as garnering second-team COC honors and first-team district honors.

There will be plenty of competition to fill out the remaining starting positions on the defensive end.

The Bulldogs open the 2020 season on the road against Willard at 7 p.m. on Aug. 28.

2020 Football Preview: Seneca Indians return solid core

Posted on by Jason Peake

Seneca football coach Ryan McFarland is well aware that the Big 8 Conference slate will once again be challenging in 2020.

But McFarland, now in his fifth year at the helm, is confident his Indians can have yet another solid season.

Why? Seneca returns a solid core from last year’s team that went 8-4 overall, 5-1 in the Big 8 West and reached a district championship game. 

“I’m really excited about the group of young men we have playing for us this year,” McFarland said. “This is an extremely hard-working group. I believe we will have great depth and competition for playing time this year. We have 19 players competing for starting varsity spots and a handful of younger guys who have a chance to work into Friday night roles as the season gets going.”

OFFENSE

The Indians will be led by senior quarterback Lance Stephens, who completed 70 passes for 1,050 yards and nine touchdowns in ’19, earning all-Big 8 honors.

“Lance did a great job as our QB last season and we look for him to be even better in 2020,” McFarland said. “We have a QB who throws the football as good as anyone I have ever coached. But we only return 6-of-70 receptions from last year. We have lots of receptions up for grabs.”

Seneca returns five offensive linemen who started at least five games in ’19. 

Seniors Grant Hoover and Garrett Babbitt earned all-conference recognition a year ago, while seniors Dayton Schick and David McLendon and junior Tanner Nesvold also return with starting experience.

Seniors Kaden Fobair and Alex Denton and junior Brock Hultman are other options up front. 

“How the group comes together as a unit will be a big factor in determining our success,” McFarland said of the o-line. “We are excited about our offensive line as a whole. We plan to let our offensive line keep us in football games while we gain experience at our skill positions.” 

Speaking of the skill positions, junior Jaxon Graham is a top running threat. He rushed for 311 yards and three scores last year. Graham started two games and saw action as a reserve in several others.

“He has put on 20 pounds and is prepared to take on the beating of being an every down back,” McFarland said. 

Other running back candidates are senior Dillon Myers and junior Ethan Fritchey.

“Dillon and Ethan are both physical runners who are anxious to get their turn to prove what they can do,” McFarland said. 

The Indians must replace the production of Trey Wilson and Monty Mailes, who combined for 3,400 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns last year.

Senior Sebastian Middick is a returning starter at wide receiver. 

The Indians averaged 26 points per game a year ago, with 294 passing yards and 93 rushing yards per contest.

DEFENSE

The Indians, who allowed 22 points per game last year, lost several key performers at the linebacker, defensive back and d-line positions.

“Defensively, we will have a handful of new faces,” McFarland said. “We have lots of spots up for grabs. I’m excited about the prospects we have.” 

Myers and senior Nick Arrasmith are back at linebacker, while senior Zane Cotten is set to become a three-year starter at free safety. 

Arrasmith made 104 stops last year, while Cotten recorded 95 tackles last year. Both players earned all-conference honors. Myers made 80 tackles in ’19.

Juniors Dane Napier, Gabriel Commons and Fritchey are other options at linebacker, while seniors Lucas Marr and Austin Ferguson, juniors Dylan Dragoo and Quinton Platner and sophomore Conner Ackerson are defensive back candidates. 

Babbitt and Hoover will be key defensive linemen, along with junior Brock Hultman. 

A LOOK BACK

As far as highlights of the 2019 season, Seneca earned wins over both Cassville and Lamar during the regular season, came back from 16 points down to beat Reeds Spring in the playoff opener and then knocked off Mount Vernon in the district semifinals.

The Indians ended last season with a 30-20 loss to Cassville, the eventual Class 3 runner-up. 

“We couldn’t beat Cassville a second time,” McFarland said. “As it seems to be the case every year, a member of the Big 8 was a representative in the state championship game.”  

McFarland noted he’s pleased with where his program is at entering the 2020 campaign. 

“We feel great about the direction of our football program and we are preparing to compete for both conference and district championships,” McFarland said. 

 

2020 Football Preview: Neosho brings back experience on both sides of the ball

Posted on by Lucas Davis

Bob Anderson Stadium is going to have a new look for the upcoming 2020 season and beyond.

Neosho will no longer be playing games on natural grass, as new turf was brought in and laid out over the offseason.

“It’s especially exciting for the players,” Neosho coach Leon Miller said. “We go to other facilities and see what they have, and now our kids are excited they get to have some of the same things. We are practicing across the street right now, but they can’t wait to get on the new turf. It was a much-needed upgrade.”

Of course, the turf isn’t the only upgrade to Bob Anderson Stadium.

“Our maintenance staff has also done a lot of painting and cleaning that has made a world of improvement,” continued Miller. “This, along with future projects, will make Bob Anderson Stadium a first-rate facility that our community can be proud of for years. Our kids deserve quality facilities to train and prepare in, and this lets them know the hard work is appreciated. This also allows us to have a consistently great playing surface year-round for multiple uses.”

 

As far as the product on the field is concerned, Neosho returns 27 players with varsity experience, including a trio of two-way players who contributed greatly to the team over the past several seasons.

“It’s very important to return a lot of kids who have seen the field on Friday nights and have that experience,” Miller said. “Those kids know what to expect. We are really excited about our group of kids. They’re a good group, and they work hard. We are excited about the potential there.”

Running back and linebacker Drayke Perry, offensive and defensive lineman Kaden Decker and tight end/linebacker Sam Sullivan headline the list of returners for the Wildcats. And with each senior playing both ways, they will be looked at as leaders for both units.

“We will rely very heavily on them, particularly for leadership,” Miller said. “Those three (have been tested at the varsity level) and they are a known quantity, so they will be key for us.”

Joining Perry in the backfield, which figures to be one of the strengths for Neosho, will be junior Talon Mitchell.

Along the offensive line, joining Decker and Sullivan, will be juniors OL/DL Seth Green, Pete Houk, Nico Olivares and Grant Campbell. Miller noted there will be competition along the trenches as well for some playing time.

“We feel like we have some depth, and some kids who are capable of stepping in and doing a great job,” Miller said. “We got some kids pushing (for starting opportunities) hard, and that’s exactly what we want.”

After graduating multi-year starter Gage Kelley, the Wildcats will be looking at a quarterback competition this preseason. Juniors Evan Haskins and Logan Whetzell, among others, will be competing for the starting position.

“I am looking for someone who can take charge, not only in the huddle, but of the situation and provide some leadership,” Miller said. “I want somebody who makes good decisions but isn’t afraid to take chances when need be. … We need someone solid back there who understands he doesn’t have to do it all himself and will take care of business.”

Miller is excited about the prospects for his group of wide receivers. Isaiah Green, Landon Werneke, Lane Yost and Aiden Howell, with others in the mix, figure to play a large role out wide.

“We have a receiving corps that is probably as deep as we have ever had, as far as being equal in talent and effort,” Miller said. “We are really excited about that, and hopefully we can utilize them in the right way.”

Senior linebacker Jacob Fry and junior linebacker Tristen Linders join a large returning group on defense, with the defensive line and linebackers considered to be the Wildcats’ biggest strength.

A meaningful new addition to the defense will be three-time state champion wrestler Cayden Auch, who figues to be a key contributor in the secondary.

“We have a lot of the same kids playing on the defensive side of the ball,” Miller said. “But there are some other kids who will figure in the mix. We still have some questions (in the secondary), but the good thing is it’s been very competitive, and that is something we haven’t had in the past. We are excited to see how that will shake out.”

Neosho is projected to open the season in a home game with Republic on Aug. 28 and the newly-madeover Bob Anderson Stadium.

“It has been awesome,” Miller said about getting back out on the field to practice in preparation for the upcoming season while dealing with the pandemic. “The frustrating part about the whole thing is the uncertainty. The one thing we know is we are going to go out there to play a normal season, and that’s what we hope to do. So, it’s some return to normalcy and you just keep building towards that.”

HIGHLY-MOTIVATED: CJ’s Alex Baker ready to make up for lost time

Posted on by Jason Peake

Alex Baker can still vividly recall the play that wiped out his junior year of high school football.

Baker and the Carl Junction Bulldogs were finishing up a final scrimmage at the Bentonville (Ark.) West team camp last summer when the life-altering incident took place.

“It happened towards the end of the day,” Baker recalled. “I took a snap, faked a handoff and started running. And then I got tackled in a weird position.”

Just like that, the unfortunate play would end Baker’s hopes of leading the Bulldogs on the field in 2019. 

“I ended up dislocating my ankle,” Baker said. “I went into shock, so I really didn’t know what happened after that. I remember looking at my foot and thinking to myself, ‘Oh, that’s not good.’” 

A trip by ambulance to a local hospital followed. Baker had severe injuries to his right leg, with a broken ankle and fractures in both the tibia and fibula.

“I had surgery the next week,” Baker said. 

 

Alex Baker

Baker could only watch from the sideline for the entirety of the fall season. 

And instead of helping Doug Buckmaster’s Bulldogs win games in the always-tough Central Ozark Conference from the quarterback position, Baker was busy rehabbing his leg.

“I was on a knee scooter and a boot for two months,” Baker said. “I started doing physical therapy at Mercy in Carthage and started walking with just the boot. I did a lot of rehab after I got out of the boot. Eventually I could do stuff on my own.”

The son of Stacie and Mark Baker admitted sitting out last fall was tough, especially because he was expected to be a key performer.

“It was pretty hard,” Baker said. “I’d never had a big injury like that. It was really weird for me to be on the sidelines and not be able to help my team.”

Before the injury, Baker had high hopes for his junior season. It’s not hard to see why. He suited up with the varsity squad as a freshman and then started five games at quarterback as a sophomore, throwing for 776 yards and six touchdowns.

“I started out as a wide receiver and then halfway through the season Coach Buck made a switch,” Baker said of his sophomore campaign. “I got thrown in there at QB. It was kind of a hard transition because I was so young, but it made me push to get better. It really made me push to learn, and the upperclassmen helped me learn the offense a lot better.”

With the injury now behind him, Baker and the Bulldogs have been preparing for the upcoming season. 

“It feels amazing being back out there,” Baker said. “I’ve definitely learned to not take things for granted, first being injured and then missing baseball season because of COVID.”

A member of National Honor Society and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Baker is a three-sport standout for the Bulldogs, also suiting up in basketball and baseball. He’s an all-district outfielder on the diamond. 

“I definitely want to play sports in college,” Baker said. “I haven’t really decided whether that’s going to be football or baseball.”

What Baker is sure of, however, is that going through the injury recovery process has made him stronger, physically and mentally. 

Now, with his senior season about to begin, Baker hopes to lead the Bulldogs to a stellar season while making up for lost time. 

“I’m definitely motivated for this season,” Baker said. “Seeing a lot of colleges cancelling their seasons has been scaring me. I just really hope we have a season.”  

“My goal is to help the team win as many games as possible,” Baker added. “It’s my senior season, so I want to have as much fun as possible with my friends who I’ve been playing with forever. It’s our last go-round together. I want to go out on a high note.” 

 

With mother by her side, Webb set for first season in charge of Carthage volleyball team

Posted on by Jason Peake

 

As Bradyn Webb begins her first head coaching adventure at Carthage High School, she’ll have a familiar face close by on the sideline—her mother. 

Sarah Wall, Bradyn’s mother and former prep coach at Carl Junction, has joined her daughter’s staff as an assistant coach, bringing decades of coaching experience with her. 

“She has been amazing,” Webb said of her mother. “She can answer any question that I have. We are loving coaching together.” 

An assistant at rival Webb City last year, Webb is taking over the reins of the CHS program after Olivia Cooley resigned after one season. 

“The transition has been great,” Webb said. “I knew I wanted this position and I was prepared for it. It also helps that I have an experienced coaching staff to help me and our team.” 

The former Bradyn Wall (now Bradyn Webb after a recent marriage) had a standout prep career at Carl Junction, earning all-state, all-district and all-conference recognition as a setter. 

 

Bradyn Webb

She helped the Bulldogs to an overall record of 109-21-12, including a 29-0 mark in Big 8 Conference play.  

Webb holds school records for assists in a career (2,159), assists in a season (851) and assists in a match (40). She was the Big 8 Player of the Year as a senior after compiling 647 assists, 190 digs, 163 service points and 41 aces. 

After high school, Webb joined the team at Missouri Southern, playing setter and defensive specialist. Injuries forced her to retire as an athlete during her senior year, but she earned MIAA Academic Honor Roll recognition three times at MSSU.  

Webb, who holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, is a fifth grade teacher at Carthage Intermediate Center, is also assisted by Chloe Allmoslecher and Heather McConnell.  

Sarah Wall earned 365 prep volleyball victories at Webb City, Midwest City (Okla.) and Carl Junction.  

The Co-Club Director of MVP Volleyball, Wall has also been a volunteer assistant coach at Pittsburg State.  In nine years at Carl Junction, Wall’s Bulldogs won 203 matches, captured six district titles and were the Big 8 Conference champs six times. The Bulldogs were the Class 3 runner-up in 2013. 

 

Sarah Wall

TEAM OUTLOOK 

The Tigers lost a talented senior class that was led by standout outside hitter Alexa Boyle, who is now playing at Pittsburg State. Boyle compiled 381 kills, 250 digs and 54 aces last season, earning first-team all-Central Ozark Conference honors. 

Senior setter Chloe Black returns to run the team’s offense. The 5-foot-6 Black earned honorable mention all-Central Ozark Conference recognition after handing out 722 assists a year ago. 

Senior Grace Schriever (5-7) and junior Sydnee Dudolski (5-10) are returning outside hitters with varsity experience, while junior Sophie Shannon (6-1) and sophomore Brielle Cartwright (5-10) are newcomers who could contribute from the outside hitter or middle blocker spots. 

Defensive specialist Rylee Anderson is another senior, while Emma Brown (DS), Tess Schrader (OH), Tasha Schrader (OH), Olivia Bourgault (DS) and Grace Pickering (MH) are other juniors competing for varsity spots. 

Webb noted practices have been going well.  

“We are a very competitive group,” she said. “The girls are hungry to win.”  

Carthage is scheduled begin the season at the Bentonville Tournament on Aug. 29. The Tigers will host a jamboree with Joplin, Nevada and Aurora at 6 p.m. on Aug. 25.  

A RARE FEAT: K-State recruit Weathers set to become a three-year starter at running back for Webb City

Posted on by Jason Peake

Devrin Weathers is poised to pull off a rare feat at Webb City High School.  

When the prep football season opener arrives on Friday, August 28, Weathers will become a three-year starter at running back for the Cardinals.  

That’s an uncommon occurrence at Webb City, a perennial power that has captured a state-record 15 championships in Missouri.  

“It’s really rare,” Webb City coach John Roderique said of Weathers’ achievement. “I can count on one hand the number of guys I’ve had as three-year starters at running back over the 24 years I’ve been here.” 

“It’s pretty special to me,” Weathers said of the accomplishment. “I feel like every year I’ve gotten better. This year I’ve got to be at my peak as far as my high school career. I’ve gotta show out.”  

The dynamic Weathers enters his senior season as a premier player in not only Southwest Missouri, but also the entire Show-Me State.  

 

Devrin Weathers

A varsity performer since his freshman year who became a starter as a sophomore, Weathers has compiled 2,373 rushing yards and 37 total touchdowns ahead of his final prep campaign. 

“The production he’s had the last couple of years has been amazing,” Roderique said. “Devrin is an incredible athlete. He has unbelievable speed. Any time he gets the ball, there’s a chance he could take it to the end zone because of his speed and athleticism.” 

During a standout junior year, the 6-foot-1, 190-pound Weathers ran for 1,386 yards with 19 touchdowns, leading the team in rushing for a second-straight season. Overall, Weathers compiled 1,736 all-purpose yards and 22 total touchdowns in ‘19, playing a key role at running back and kick returner as the Cardinals captured the Class 4 championship.  

For his efforts, Weathers earned first-team all-state recognition from the Missouri Football Coaches Association and second-team honors from the Missouri Media.  

“I feel like I had a pretty good junior season, but I know I can always get better,” said Weathers, who also suits up for the baseball team at Webb City. “I want to have an even better senior season. This summer I’ve put in a lot of work.” 

After drawing interest from a number of colleges, Weathers verbally committed to Kansas State in June to join Chris Klieman‘s Wildcats of the Big 12 Conference. 

“I felt like the coaching staff and everything about the program at K-State was great,” Weathers said. “I loved everything about it and I know I’ll be real comfortable there. They’ve been contacting me for a while. I think they first saw my highlights on Hudl when I was a sophomore.”  

Weathers, who runs a 40-yard dash in 4.4 seconds, also received Division-I offers from Navy and Eastern Illinois, along with a number of D-II offers. 

“It’s exciting and I’m really happy for him that he’s getting the opportunity to go to Kansas State,” Roderique said. “Playing at that level will be a challenge no doubt. We’re happy for him. They don’t give those offers out to just anybody.” 

Weathers is regarded as a three-star recruit by 247Sports and a two-star prospect by Rivals. According to 247Sports, Weathers is ranked No. 22 in Missouri’s Class of 2021.

As far as the next level, Weathers’ position is up in the air, but there’s been discussion that the Wildcats could play him at defensive back. 

First things first—Weathers and the defending champion Cardinals are now preparing for the 2020 campaign. 

 

 

Devrin Weathers poses with Coach John Roderique after the Cardinals won the 2019 Class 4 state championship game in Columbia.

 

Roderique noted Weathers has improved his work ethic, blocking and toughness ahead of his senior season.  

“I’ve seen some growth in his physicality,” Roderique said. “We’ve talked to him about being a more-physical runner and being a better blocker. He’s doing a really good job of leading and helping the younger players learn what we do. As a coach, you’re always appreciative of a senior helping the younger guys.” 

To Weathers, providing guidance to the underclassmen is something he’s more than willing to do. 

“I have a lot of experience and I feel like I can help teach the younger dudes,” he said. “As a senior, I have to step up and help lead this team. The younger kids always look up to the seniors, so I want to be a role model.”  

Now a varsity veteran, and with his college decision out of the way, Weathers intends to end his prep football career in a big way. 

“All summer we were wondering if we would get to play, so it’s a great feeling getting back out here,” Weathers said. “I’m just really excited. I want to show everyone what I can do. And we want to win a state title again this year.” 

 

MORE ON WEBB CITY: Defending champion Webb City Cardinals reloaded again

Jason Peake is a sports reporter and podcast host for SoMo Sports. You can follow him on Twitter at @JPeakeSports. You can follow SoMo Sports on Facebook, or on Twitter at @SoMo_Sports.

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