Carthage Tigers Archives - Page 2 of 16

VOLLEYBALL: Carthage keeps home winning streak alive with clean sweep

Posted on September 20, 2023September 20, 2023 by Jason Peake

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Carthage led from start to finish in a 3-0 victory over Joplin on Tuesday night in a matchup between Central Ozark Conference and district foes.

With a solid overall performance, the Tigers defeated the Eagles 25-16, 25-10, 25-14.

“I’m feeling really good about that one,” Carthage coach Chloe Allmoslecher said. “I feel like we came out and made it clear that we were taking care of business tonight. We’re now 3-0 in our district and we’re still undefeated on our home court. I feel like we’re building some confidence.”

Now 5-0 at home, Carthage hiked its record to 9-9 overall and 2-0 in the conference.

Gaining the momentum early in all three sets, Carthage never trailed in the match.

“That’s definitely rare in a three-set match,” Allmoslecher said of never trailing. “And when it’s a district and conference opponent and a close rival, you never know how it’s going to go. But the girls showed up tonight and I’m just so proud of them.”

Carthage’s Riann Schwartz is pictured during Tuesday’s match with Joplin. In back is Peyton Ray. Photo by Jessica Greninger.

In the opening set, the Tigers pulled out to a 7-2 lead after an ace from junior outside hitter Peyton Ray, and Carthage led 18-8 after kills from juniors Jaidyn Brunnert and Millie Templeman.

Joplin senior outside hitter Bailey Owens recorded a pair of kills for the visitors, but the Tigers finished off the set after kills from senior Ava Bourgault and Brunnert.

Once again pulling away early, Carthage held leads of 9-1 and 14-2 in the second set victory.

Joplin received kills from both Janiah Vaughn and Aiyana Kroll, but the visitors still trailed 18-9.

The Tigers closed the second set on a 7-1 run, capped by a kill from Templeman and an ace from Brunnert.

In the third set, Carthage once again took control early, leading 6-1 and 11-5 after a kill from Bourgault.

The Tigers simply got on a roll, as sophomore Sadie Comer served four straight aces for a comfy 18-8 advantage.

Bella Coy and Brunnert recorded kills late in the set, as the Tigers finished off the clean sweep.

“Tonight was fun,” Allmoslecher said. “All of the girls were focused, but they were having fun and doing it as a team. As a whole, I feel like we took care of business.”

Templeman led the Tigers with 15 kills and had only one attack error.

Joplin junior setter Adalynn Noirfalise sets up a teammate during Tuesday’s match against Carthage.

“Millie touched the ball a lot and they were triple blocking her,” Allmoslecher said. “She was swinging aggressively, so I was proud of her.”

Bourgault added eight kills, while Brunnert, Coy and London Shepherd all contributed four kills apiece.

Brunnert handed out 17 assists, while Comer had 13 assists. Ray had seven aces.

The Tigers served 15 aces in the match, as the Eagles struggled with their serve-receive.

“We’ve had to fight for our consistency with our serves,” Allmoslecher said. “As a coaching staff, we’ve really been on them about that. Tonight, we were really consistent and aggressive and that’s all you can ask for.”

Joplin fell to 3-9 overall and 0-2 in the COC.

“We’ve still got work to do, and I’m not going to give up on these girls,” Joplin coach Staci Saunders said. “I have to give Carthage a lot of credit. Their girls played with heart and they played very well. We played very slow and casual. We didn’t seem to get up for this match.”

Owens led the Eagles with nine kills and seven digs, while fellow senior Raelin Calderon added four kills.

Junior setter Adalynn Noirfalise handed out 17 assists for the Eagles, while junior libero Phia Vogel had a team-high nine digs.

Both schools have been assigned to Class 5 District 7, so they may meet again in postseason play.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Both teams will host COC matches on Thursday, as Carthage meets Ozark and Joplin entertains Branson.

Carthage’s Jaidyn Brunnert hits over the block of Janiah Vaughn and Aiyana Kroll on Tuesday night. Carthage defeated Joplin 3-0 in COC play. Photos by Jessica Greninger.

Carthage’s Jaidyn Brunnert and Millie Templeman block at the net against Joplin on Tuesday.

Joplin libero Phia Vogel is pictured during Tuesday’s match against Carthage.

The Carthage Tigers defeated the Joplin Eagles 3-0 in district and conference volleyball action on Tuesday night inside the Carthage High School gymnasium. Photos by Jessica Greninger.

FOOTBALL: Carthage notches first win over Carl Junction

Posted on September 16, 2023September 16, 2023 by Lucas Davis

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Carthage got into the win column for the first time this season after taking the early lead and never relinquishing it in a 41-28 win on Friday.

Carthage QB Brady Carlton looks for rushing room in the Tigers’ win over Carl Junction on Friday. Photo by Jessica Greninger.

The Tigers scored on the opening drive and built a three-score lead by the end of the first quarter before Carl Junction stormed back to cut the Tigers’ lead to 27-21 at the intermission. The Tigers forced the Bulldogs into a turnover on downs midway through the third quarter and took advantage with a touchdown to build a two-score lead without wavering down the stretch.

Carthage took the opening kickoff and marched 75 yards on five plays to get into the end zone. The Tigers used a 35-yard run from QB Brady Carlton to set up a 6-yard rushing score from Carlton for a 7-0 lead with 9:58 left to play in the first quarter.

After a Carl Junction punt, WR Jackson Hettinger ripped off a 78-yard run before RB Landyn Collins bounced off a tackle and found paydirt from 5 yards out to give Carthage a 13-0 advantage with less than five minutes to play in the opening period.

The Tigers made it three for three in scoring drives when Collins broke off a 14-yard rushing touchdown for a 19-0 lead with 55 seconds left in the opening quarter.

Carl Junction WR Ryder Pyles hauls in a reception in the Bulldogs’ loss Carthage on Friday. Photo by Jessica Greninger.

Carl Junction got on the scoreboard with 10:02 to play in the second quarter after QB Dexter Merrell ripped off a 31-yard touchdown to cut the Tigers’ lead to 19-7 and cap a 70-yard, seven-play drive.

The Bulldogs cut the lead to 19-14 when Merrell found WR Ryder Pyles streaking across the field for a 93-yard touchdown midway through the second period.

The Tigers responded when Carlton kept the ball up the middle for a 23-yard touchdown run with 4:45 on the clock and converted the ensuing 2-point conversion to give Carthage a 27-14 advantage.

Stewart reversed field for a 17-yard touchdown run on the following Carl Junction drive to get Bulldogs back within one score, 27-21, with less than four minutes to play in the first half.

Carl Junction went for it on fourth down early in the second half but failed to convert, and Carthage took advantage of the short field when Carlton found TE Karson Murray with a jump ball in the end zone on fourth-down-and-10 for a 25-yard touchdown before keeping it for the 2-point conversion to give the Tigers a 35-21 lead over the Bulldogs with 1:50 left to play in the third quarter.

Carthage RB Landyn Collins picks up a chunk gain against Carl Junction on Friday. Photo by Jessica Greninger.

Carl Junction refused to go away, driving once again on the ensuing possession before Merrell hit Jett Mills in the end zone for a 22-yard touchdown to trim the Tigers’ cushion to 35-28 with 8: left in the game.

Carthage put the finishing touches on the win with one more methodical drive that ended with Collins crossing the end zone with 2:39 remaining to give the Tigers a two-score lead, 41-28.

Again, showing no quit, the Bulldogs went into their hurry-up offense with little time remaining and marched down the field into the red zone but turned it over on downs with less than a minute to play.

Carthage (1-3) is on the road against Neosho in Week 4.

Carl Junction (1-3) hosts Branson in Week 4.

BOYS SOCCER ROUNDUP: Joplin beats Willard; Laytham leads Carthage past Neosho; CHC earns 1st win

Posted on September 13, 2023September 13, 2023 by Jason Peake

JOPLIN 4, WILLARD 0

The Joplin High School boys soccer team rode a strong second half to a 4-0 victory over Willard on Tuesday night.

After a scoreless first half, the Eagles scored four goals after intermission.

Leo Valdez scored in the 43rd minute before Ever Blanco made it 2-0 in the 49th minute, with Ely Montanez assisting.

Andy Cordova’s goal in the 53rd minute, assisted by Adam Badr, gave the Eagles a 3-0 lead.

Badr scored in the 57th minute, with Montanez assisting, for the final margin.

The Eagles had 10 shots on goal to Willard’s eight, with a 16-11 advantage on overall shots.

Joplin goalkeeper Brayden Anderson made eight saves, while Willard’s Jacob Jones was credited with six saves.

The Eagles took six corner kicks to the Tigers’ two.

Joplin (2-4) is at Monett on Thursday.

CARTHAGE 8, NEOSHO 0

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Senior forward Silas Laytham recorded a hat trick, scoring goals in the 14th, 20th and 37th minutes, leading the Carthage Tigers to a convincing win over the Neosho Wildcats on Tuesday night at David Haffner Stadium.

In addition to Laytham’s three first half goals, Kenny Cifuentes, Henry Hernandez and Welle Welle all scored in the first half, giving the Tigers a 6-0 halftime lead.

Welle and Reece Horton scored in the second half for the final margin.

Carthage (5-1) is at Springfield Central on Thursday.

COLLEGE HEIGHTS 9, FORT SCOTT 2

Michael Parrigon scored five goals and had two assists to lead College Heights (with McAuley Catholic) to a non-conference win on Tuesday.

Liam Nelson added two goals for the Cougars, while Hudson Clevenger and Justin Bgoni added one goal apiece.

College Heights (1-4) is at Greenwood on Thursday.

SOFTBALL: Carthage rides big inning, stellar pitching to win over rival Webb City

Posted on September 13, 2023September 13, 2023 by Jason Peake

WEBB CITY, Mo. — An eight-run fourth inning propelled Carthage past longtime rival Webb City 9-1 on Tuesday in a Central Ozark Conference softball contest at Webb City High School.

The Tigers were clinging to a 1-0 lead when they erupted for eight runs in the game-changing fourth frame.

“We talked about putting the ball in play, bunting, moving runners over and putting the pressure on them,” Carthage coach Stephanie Ray said of the big inning. “We were able to get some runs across and then we finally got the big hit from Brooklynn (Dolon-Main) and that really sealed the deal.”

The big inning wasn’t the only highlight for the Tigers.

Carthage junior hurler Addison Wallace was stellar in the circle, as she limited Webb City to two hits and one walk while striking out six in the complete-game gem.

“She threw a really good game today,” Ray said. “She’s had some great games where we just didn’t give her any run support. Tonight, she threw just as well as she did last weekend and against Ozark. Tonight, she had the run support.”

Wallace induced 11 ground outs and four fly outs and went the distance on 86 pitches.

“She got ahead,” Ray said. “She was able to mix it up on them.”

The Cardinals got the best of the Tigers at the Joplin tournament, winning 10-2, but Carthage turned the tables in the rematch.

“It’s a good win for us,” Ray said. “They took one from us at the Joplin tournament where they had a big inning on us. So it was nice to see us get it done here tonight.”

The Tigers touched Webb City starting pitcher Laney Taylor for one run on two hits in the top of the first inning.

With one out, junior shortstop Ashlyn Brust singled to left and senior catcher Dolon-Main doubled to left-center before sophomore second baseman Lottie Youngblood drove in the game’s first run with a grounder to shortstop.

The Cardinals stranded the bases loaded in the bottom of the second, as Wallace recorded a key strikeout to keep her team in front.

Carthage broke the game open with eight runs on six hits, an error, a fielder’s choice and a hit batter in the fourth.

With the bases loaded, senior first baseman Alexis Smith drove in a run when the Cardinals were unable to corral her slow chopper in between the plate and the circle.

Next, senior outfielder Shelby Hegwer was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded before sophomore Jaycee Bayless drove in a run with a pinch-hit infield single for a 4-0 lead.

A fielder’s choice off the bat of junior designated player Aven Willis and an infield single by Brust made it 6-0.

The Tigers weren’t done. In the biggest blast of the game, Dolon-Main’s three-run double to right gave the visitors a 9-0 cushion.

Webb City got on the board when senior designated player Rilley Hanes homered to center in the bottom of the fourth.

Neither team scored the rest of the way.

Wallace, who didn’t allow a hit after the fourth inning, had five 1-2-3 innings.

The Tigers recorded 12 hits, with eight players contributing. Dolon-Main had three hits, while Smith and Brust added two hits apiece.

Taylor took the loss after allowing six earned runs on five hits in three innings. Makenzie Wynn gave up two runs on seven hits in four innings.

Webb City slipped to 10-4 and 1-2 in the COC.

Carthage improved to 9-9 overall and 2-1 in the COC.

“We talked to the girls about how this is a big week for us,” Coach Ray said. “We’ve already played in three tournaments. We’ve already played 18 games, so half of our season is done. This was a big game and we have Mac County tomorrow and Willard on Thursday. We talked about taking them one game at a time. We want to keep working on the little things, keep our energy high and we’ll see what happens.”

WHAT’S NEXT?

Carthage hosts McDonald County at 3:30 on Wednesday.

Webb City is at Nixa on Thursday.

FULL STATS: Webb City HS (webbcitycardinals.com)

VOLLEYBALL: Carthage wins five-set thriller over Neosho in COC action

Posted on September 12, 2023September 12, 2023 by Lucas Davis

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Carthage remained unblemished at home after dropping the first set before rallying to beat Neosho 23-25, 25-13, 25-22, 19-25 and 15-12 in a five-set Central Ozark Conference thriller on Monday.

“We knew going in that Neosho is always a scrappy team,” Carthage coach Chloe Allmoslecher said. “They never give up and tonight, we knew it was going to be that way. Five sets later, here we are. Luckily, we came out on top. I think we could have stepped up in our service game. We missed a lot of serves tonight. In these five-set matches, it can get long and tiresome, but you can never let that be an excuse because the other team is playing five sets, too.”

The win, which also had district implications, is the Tigers’ third straight, all coming at home where CHS is 3-0. In total, Carthage is 7-4 on the season and 1-0 in conference play.

Neosho falls to 4-6 after losing its conference opener.

The opening set was a back-and-forth affair, with neither team taking much of an advantage until Carthage used a 7-2 spurt, including a three-point service run that included an ace from Sadie Comer, to build a 19-15 advantage

“We have just been a team that has struggled getting off to a good start,” Allmoslecher said of the first set getting away from the Tigers. “We have lost a lot of first sets, with the first 15 points kind of being where we struggle. We are still working on that, but as we turn the corner into the more competitive part of our schedule, we are going to have to figure that out.”

Neosho chipped away at the lead before ripping off six of the next seven points, ultimately taking a 24-22 lead on Rylyn Mortiz’s serve. After a sideout kill by Carthage’s Millie Templeman, Neosho’s Whitney Kivett ended the game, 25-23, with a kill of her own.

Carthage flipped the script in the second set, starting strong and not giving up the lead. The Tigers used a strong opening service from Riann Schwartz that saw an ace and a kill from Bella Coy for a 4-0 lead.

After a sideout kill from Neosho’s Taylor James, Carthage scored five of the next six points—two kills from Templeman as well as kills from Comer and Coy—to build a 10-3 lead.

“When you get a good start, get some momentum and get over that hump and not in a hole, it’s not as overwhelming,” Allmoslecher said of her team bouncing back in the second set. “I want our girls to realize how much having the momentum from the get-go can affect a set. We are getting there.”

Back to back aces from Comer later in the set built a 13-5 lead for the Tigers. Carthage put the finishing touches on the second set with six of the last seven points, including two aces from Ella Schwartz and two kills from Templeman.

Carthage was forced to rally from an early hole in the third set, as Neosho jumped out to a 7-3 advantage. Three straight kills from Ava Bourgault and an ace from Comer tied the set at 7-7.

The Tigers found themselves trailing 14-9 before scoring eight of the next nine points to take a 17-15 lead on service runs from Ella Schwartz and Comer. Bourgault and Templeman had kills, while Ella Schwartz had an ace.

Carthage pushed the third-set lead to five, 22-17, on a three-point run in service by Comer and ultimately put the third set away on a kill from Templeman.

“Coming from behind has actually been a huge hurdle that we have overcome,” Allmoslecher said. “This summer, it was a battle for us. If we were in a hole, we were going to lose the game. Battling back is actually our strong suit now. Our girls aren’t scared from being behind … they did a good job of fighting to win that set.”

In a tightly-contested fourth set, Neosho took the first advantage midway through after scoring eight of nine points, highlighted by a four-point service run by Audrey Sims, which included an ace and a block from Maddy Olson for a 21-14 lead.

Carthage used a sideout and four-point service run from Templeman that included an ace and two kills from Bourgault to trim the margin to 22-19 before Neosho forced a sideout and never relinquished service until finishing off the win. Moritz had a kill in the run and Olson finished the win with a kill.

Carthage took early control with a 4-1 lead in the fifth set off an ace from Riann Schwartz.

The Wildcats battled back to take a 5-4 lead on a three-point service run from Moritz, with Jazmyn Washington earning a block and Olson a kill.

Neosho cut the lead to 9-8 with a sideout kill from James before Comer earned a kill for a sideout in Carthage’s favor. Jaidyn Brunnert earned a kill before Comer aced to give the Tigers a 12-8 lead and the momentum.

A block from Neosho’s Lauren Sullivan was matched by a kill from Bourgault before she followed with an ace in service to put Carthage on top 14-9. Brunnert finished the match shortly after with a kill to seal the win.

“It was a really big win,” Allmoslecher said. “They are in our district and in our conference. We are also undefeated at home so far, so it is nice to have that confidence moving forward.”

UP NEXT

Carthage hosts Cassville on Tuesday.

Neosho hosts Diamond on Tuesday.

CROSS COUNTRY: Webb City squads shine at Carthage; area athletes converge at 50th annual invite

Posted on September 7, 2023September 7, 2023 by Jason Peake

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Webb City had not only the top local individuals, but also the best team finishes in both varsity races at the 50th annual Carthage Invitational cross country meet on Thursday at the Carthage Golf Course.

Webb City sophomore Brooke Hedger finished third in the girls race with a time of 20:58, leading the Cardinals to runner-up finish in the team standings.

Cardinals senior Evan Stevens placed third in the boys race with a time of 16:55, leading Webb City to a third-place team finish, just two points behind runner-up Rogers (Ark.).

Carthage, Carl Junction, McAuley Catholic, Thomas Jefferson and East Newton also had athletes competing at the event.

Free State High School from Kansas won both team titles.

In the girls’ team standings, Carthage finished fourth, Carl Junction was sixth and McAuley Catholic took eighth.

Carthage’s boys finished fifth in the team standings, with Carl Junction seventh, McAuley eighth and Thomas Jefferson 11th.

Webb City’s Evan Stevens and Carl Junction’s duo of Luke Battagler and Jack Lawson are among the runners competing during Thursday’s Carthage Invitational. Photo by Jessica Greninger.

WEBB CITY HIGHLIGHTS

The Webb City girls had three of the top 11 runners, with all five placing in the top 22.

Hedger placed third behind Rogers’ Kayla Eggers (20:21) and Free State’s Cayman Barnes (20:56).

Webb City’s Emily Countryman finished eighth in 22:06, while Olivia Klotz took 11th in 22:45.

Also competing for the Webb City girls were Amelia Antillon (21st) and Brooke Collard (22nd).

The Webb City boys had five runners finish in the top 19.

Stevens finished third behind Free State’s duo of Blake Wohler (16:24) and Jake Loos (16:50).

Webb City’s Mason Hedger finished 10th (17:30), while Spencer Kendall took 16th (17:43), Noah Lankard was 18th (17:49) and Andrew Dawson finished 19th (17:51).

Also for the Cardinals, Fenton Rice finished 30th (19:00) and Dakota Grove was 33rd (19:01).

Athletes from Carthage, Webb City and Carl Junction take off at the start of the varsity girls race on Thursday at the Carthage Invitational. Photo by Jessica Greninger.

CARTHAGE HIGHLIGHTS

Eddy Fuentes led the Carthage boys by finishing 24th in 18:13.

Also competing for the Carthage boys were Devin Smith (34th), Javen Byrd (37th), Brayan Perez Flores (40th), Denis Velasquez Perez (55th) and Xander Vazquez (79th).

Maggie Boyd led the Carthage girls by finishing 14th in 22:55 and Jennifer Rodas-Gomez took 18th in 23:12.

Also competing for the CHS girls were Genesis Fuentez-Elias (25th), Katy Witherspoon (39th), Kimberly Monterroso (42nd), Jenna Wilson (52nd) and Sarah Wilson (57th).

Webb City’s Brooke Hedger was the top local finisher in the varsity girls race at the Carthage Invitational. A sophomore, Hedger finished third.

CARL JUNCTION HIGHLIGHTS

Jack Lawson led the Carl Junction boys by finishing 22nd in 18:05.

Rounding out the top seven for the CJ boys were Isaac Willoughby (43rd), Luke Battagler (46th), Nikash Yeary (57th), Jacob Garrett (60th), Alexander Allison (63rd) and Chance Golden (66th).

Marissa Newman was CJ’s top female finisher, as she crossed the line 26th in 23:51, while Delaney Harris was 29th in 24:11.

Rounding out the top seven for the CJ girls were Madilyn Dalton (32nd), Audrey Fletcher (41st), Summer Sampson (44th), Bella Montez (60th) and Gracie Fletcher (72nd).

MCAULEY CATHOLIC HIGHLIGHTS

Michael Parrigon led McAuley Catholic by finishing 20th with a time of 17:54. Trae Veer finished 28th in 18:55 to give the Warriors two runners in the top 30.

Also competing for the McAuley boys were Will Mollnow (52nd), Connor Taffner (64th), Cliff Nolan (85th), Max Anreder (87th) and Grant Horinek (88th).

Freshman Olivia Parrigon led the McAuley girls by crossing the line 19th in 23:15. Kendall Ramsey finished 35th in 24:39.

Also competing for the McAuley girls were Riley Sears (70th), Marbellie Villanueva (76th) and Samantha Perrin (77th).

THOMAS JEFFERSON HIGHLIGHTS

Braden Honeywell-Lynch led the TJ boys with a 44th place finish (19:43).

Also competing for the Cavaliers were Liam Cook (73rd), Ashan Appuhamy (86th), Ringo Snow (92nd), Spencer Long (93rd) and James Sheppard (99th).

Macie Shifferd paced Thomas Jefferson’s girls team with a 24th place finish (23:48).

TJ’s Sarah Mueller finished 48th in 26:11.

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Free State’s boys had four of the top six finishers.

Chase Sorrell paced the East Newton boys by finishing fourth in 17:00. Sorrell and Webb City’s Stevens were the only boys to finish in the top six not from Free State. The Patriots’ second finisher was Nicholas Shaeffer (38th).

Brooklyn Blanchard finished 13th in 22:48 for the East Newton girls.

Laney Dorris led Sarcoxie’s girls by finishing 51st. Dugan Pogue finished 75th for the Sarcoxie boys.

50TH CARTHAGE INVITATIONAL

Girls team standings: Free State 47, Webb City 61, Rogers 62, Carthage 115, Glendale 139, Carl Junction 142, Clever 145, McAuley Catholic 193. Incomplete teams: Grove, East Newton, Hillcrest, Rogers Heritage, Parkview, Sarcoxie, Thomas Jefferson, Wheaton.

Boys team standings: Free State 23, Rogers 60, Webb City 62, Glendale 104, Carthage 170, Rogers Heritage 173, Carl Junction 202, McAuley Catholic 213, Grove 271, Hillcrest 310, Thomas Jefferson 312, Parkview 318. Incomplete teams: Clever, East Newton, Sarcoxie, Wheaton.

Webb City’s Mason Hedger crosses the finish line 10th overall at Thursday’s Carthage Invitational cross country meet at the Carthage Golf Course. All photos by Jessica Greninger.

Webb City’s Olivia Klotz, East Newton’s Brooklyn Blanchard and Carthage’s Maggie Boyd are pictured during Thursday’s Carthage Invitational.

Carl Junction’s Marissa Newman and McAuley Catholic’s Kendall Ramsey are pictured during Thursday’s Carthage Invitational. Photos by Jessica Greninger.

VOLLEYBALL: Carthage sweeps Hillcrest

Posted on September 7, 2023September 7, 2023 by Lucas Davis

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Carthage made quick work of Hillcrest with a 25-18, 25-21 and 25-19 sweep on Tuesday.

The win puts the Tigers at 5-4 on the season, with Carthage hosting Pittsburg on Thursday.

Jaidyn Brunnert finished with 13 kills, 16 assists, four digs and a block to lead Carthage. Riann Schwartz had 24 digs, an ace and a kill, while Sadie Comer had 23 assists, 17 digs, seven kills and an ace. Bella Coy had five kills and four digs, while London Shepherd had seven kills and a block.

SOFTBALL ROUNDUP: Joplin rallies late past Carthage; Neosho walks off against Nixa

Posted on September 6, 2023September 6, 2023 by Lucas Davis

JOPLIN 10, CARTHAGE 6

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Carthage held a 6-5 lead heading into the seventh inning when Joplin rallied for five runs and the eventual win in the Central Ozark Conference opener on Tuesday.

Joplin’s Jadyn Pankow led off the top of the seventh with a walk in front of Riley Kelly’s single before Taryn Casey sacrificed them up to second and third with a bunt. Gracie Williamson delivered the first big hit with a game-tying single up the middle to plate a run. Lily Glover followed with an infield hit to score the go-ahead run. Maria Loum singled to center field with two outs later in the inning to bring home a run and Abby Lowery added an RBI single to center to wrap the scoring for the Eagles.

Carthage loaded the bases with one out in the bottom of the inning, but a pop out and a strikeout ended the threat.

Ava Wolf started and took a no-decision after allowing five runs, one earned, on eight hits, two walks and three strikeouts in 5 1/3 innings. Caelyn Bobski earned the win in relief after allowing one run on two hits, five walks and two strikeouts in 1 2/3 innings.

Addie Wallace took the loss after allowing 10 runs, eight earned, on 14 hits, three walks and two strikeouts in seven innings.

Pankow led the Eagles at the plate with three hits, a two-run home run in the top of the fifth and two doubles, three RBI and two runs scored. Lowery had two hits, two RBI and scored twice, while Loum had two hits, two RBI and scored a run. Kelly, Glover and Bailey Ledford had two hits each, with Kelly and Ledford each scoring a run.

Lexa Youngblood had three hits, including a double, and an RBI for the Tigers. Brooklynn Dolon-Main had two hits and scored twice. Jenna Calhoon doubled and scored a run.

Joplin (7-5, 1-0 COC) hosts Branson on Thursday.

Carthage (6-5, 3-1 COC) hosts Ozark on Thursday.

NEOSHO 8, NIXA 7

NEOSHO, Mo. — After Nixa scored a run in the top half of the inning to take a two-run lead, Neosho rallied with a three-run seventh to earn the walk-off win over the Eagles in the Central Ozark Conference opener on Tuesday.

Trailing 7-5 with three outs left, the Wildcats loaded the bases with the first three batters reaching on a walk by Kynden Smith, a single from Beclynn Garrett and a walk by Carleigh Kinnaird before Journey Arnall drove home two with a one-out single to right to tie the game at 7-7. After a strikeout for the second out in the inning and an intentional walk to load the bases, Ashlyn Stevens brought home the winning run on a fielder’s choice bunt, with the throw going home not in time.

Kinnaird started and took a no-decision after allowing six runs, four earned, on six hits, two walks and seven strikeouts in five innings of work. Olivia Emery earned the win after allowing one run on two hits and three strikeouts in two innings of work.

Paige Garetson took the loss after allowing three runs on two hits, three walks and four strikeouts in 1 2/3 relief innings. Brienne Chilton started and took a no-decision after allowing five runs on seven hits, two walks and four strikeouts in five innings.

Garrett had three hits, including a double, to lead Neosho at the plate. She also had a team-high three runs scored. Addy Hart had two hits and a team-high three RBI. Journey Arnall had a hit and two RBI for the Wildcats.

Neosho hosts Republic on Thursday.

FOOTBALL: Carthage falls to Branson in home opener

Posted on September 2, 2023September 2, 2023 by Lucas Davis

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Carthage dropped its home opener to the visiting Branson Pirates 28-14 on Friday, with costly turnovers hurting the Tigers throughout the night.

“That’s a big win for our program. I think it was 42-0 at halftime against these guys last year,” said Branson head coach Aaron Hafner. “To get a road win in the COC is great, period.”

Branson was first on the board, opening the game with a quick six-play scoring drive—finished off by a Daniel Giles 12-yard touchdown run.

The Tigers responded with a methodical drive on their first possession, holding the ball for nearly eight minutes on a 13-play, 56-yard drive. However, they came up empty after being stopped on fourth-down-and-2 at the Branson 21-yard line.

The first quarter ended with the visiting Pirates holding a 7-0 lead.

After forcing a Branson punt early in the second quarter, Carthage came up with its first points of the night.

The Tigers drove 66 yards on eight plays midway through the second quarter, with Brady Carlton hitting a wide open Karson Murray down the middle for a 24-yard touchdown connection.

The Tigers appeared to be on their way to taking their first lead later in the second quarter. They forced a three-and-out on the following Branson possession, with Landon Bland getting a big tackle-for-loss on third down. After a short punt, Carthage took over at the Branson 43-yard line.

Carthage lost that momentum moments later, as Gage Depee stepped in front of a Carlton pass for an interception and returned it all the way to the Tigers’ 6-yard line. The Pirates punched it in on the very next play to take a 14-7 lead.

Branson stopped Carthage on downs on the following possession and took over on their own 43-yard line with 1:05 remaining before halftime. With just one second remaining on the clock, Branson quarterback Luke McCormick heaved a last second pass into the front right corner of the end zone. Junior wide receiver Tegan Asbury fought through double coverage to haul it in and give the Pirates a 21-7 lead at the break.

“It was just an unbelievable catch by Tegan,” Hafner said. “He does that all the time in practice, but to see it in a game obviously was super cool. Tegan to me is a star in the making.”

“That was deflating,” said Carthage head coach Jon Guidie, “We were right there to make a play. We were in position to make a play, and we just didn’t make a play.”

The Tigers’ misfortune continued early in the third quarter. Branson’s defense forced and recovered a Carthage fumble on the very first play of the second half. One play later, Depee took a handoff and busted through an open lane 32 yards for a touchdown to give the Pirates a 28-7 lead just 17 seconds into the third quarter.

Turnovers continued to haunt Carthage on its next offensive possession. On a tipped Carlton pass, Javen Finkbone came up with an interception for Branson’s third forced turnover of the game.

The Tigers showed signs of life late in the third quarter, putting together their second scoring drive of the night. The drive ended with Carlton floating a pass down the right sideline to Jackson Hettinger for a 27-yard touchdown. Carlton’s second touchdown pass of the night brought Carthage within 14 heading to the fourth quarter.

Carthage continued to battle in the final period. They had a chance to make it a one-possession game with a little more than four minutes remaining. With the ball at the Branson 10-yard line, Carlton targeted Karson Murray in the end zone—but another tipped ball resulted in a third Branson interception by Ryder Schroeder.

The Pirates forced four turnovers defensively Friday night.

“Our number one key for this week was ball security,” Guidie said. “You can blame that tonight, but we have a lot of areas to row. We’re just not there yet.”

“I thought our kids did an excellent job of running to the football, and open-field tackling,” Hafner added. “I thought they rallied to the ball well and in clutch situations, came up with big plays.”

After the Tiger defense forced a quick three-and-out, the Tigers got one more chance to cut into the Pirates’ lead. Once again, the Branson defense came up with a stop—swatting down a Carlton pass on fourth-down-and-11 in the red zone to secure their 28-14 victory.

Branson improves to 1-1 with the victory, while Carthage has an 0-2 record for the first time since 2017.

“There’s only one way to go from here, and that’s up. The conference championship is out of our minds right now,” Guidie said. “It’s just, can we get better through the next several weeks and hopefully make a run in districts? That’s a tall order because our conference is loaded, but that’s really where we’re at.”

BOYS SOCCER: Carthage tops College Heights

Posted on September 1, 2023September 1, 2023 by Jason Peake

CARTHAGE, Mo. — The Carthage boys soccer team scored four goals in each half to earn an 8-0 victory over College Heights Christian (with McAuley Catholic) on Thursday at David Haffner Stadium.

The Tigers improved to 2-0.

Henry Hernandez opened the scoring in the seventh minute, with Aldo Sanchez-Cancinos assisting.

Welle Welle’s goal in the 11th minute made it 2-0 before Sanchez-Cancinos gave the Tigers a 3-0 advantage in the 15th minute.

Carthage went up 4-0 when Silas Laytham recorded a goal in the 35th minute.

Laytham, Welle, Israel Perez and Reece Horton scored goals in the second half.

Carthage is at Willard on Tuesday.

College Heights (0-2) hosts McDonald County on Tuesday.

BOYS SOCCER: Webb City knocks off Carl Junction; Carthage tops Republic; TJ blanks Columbus; Joplin falls in OT

Posted on August 30, 2023August 30, 2023 by Jason Peake

WEBB CITY 5, CARL JUNCTION 2

WEBB CITY, Mo. — Kaulden Hood and Josh White each scored a pair of goals for the Webb City Cardinals in Tuesday night’s 5-2 victory over rival Carl Junction at Cardinal Stadium.

Hood recorded his first goal in the 52nd minute and the second in the 73rd minute, while White scored his goals in the 69th and 90th minutes.

Luis Gallardo scored on a penalty kick in the 48th minute for Webb City.

Both of Carl Junction’s goals were scored by Gavin Cowger, the first in the 43rd minute and the second in the 55th minute.

CARTHAGE 3, REPUBLIC 1

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Senior forward Welle Welle scored a pair of first half goals just two minutes apart to give Carthage a 2-0 lead in Tuesday’s match against Republic.

The first goal, which came in the 16th minute, was unassisted, while Silas Laytham assisted on the second goal in the 18th minute.

Aldo Sanchez-Cancinos recorded a goal in the 29th minute, with Welle assisting, to make it 3-0 in favor of the hosts.

Republic’s goal was scored by Santino Stiglianese in the 43rd minute.

THOMAS JEFFERSON 4, COLUMBUS 0

COLUMBUS, Kan. — Jaxx Wisdom scored a pair of goals to lead Thomas Jefferson to a 4-0 victory over the Columbus Titans on Tuesday.

Eann Espinoza and Ryker Faaborg added one goal apiece for the Cavaliers, while Yousuf Mokhtar assisted on one of Wisdom’s goals.

Wisdom recorded six shots on goal, while Espinoza had four shots on goal, Faaborg had two shots on goal and Kyler Beard contributed one shot on goal.

Bekah Davis recorded seven saves, while Lincoln Miller had two saves.

Thomas Jefferson (1-0) hosts the Joplin JV team at 5 p.m. on Thursday.

NIXA 3, JOPLIN 2 (OT)

Nixa nipped Joplin 3-2 in overtime on Tuesday night at JHS.

It was Joplin’s opener under new head coach Desmond Williams.

Joplin is at Republic on Sept. 5.

SOFTBALL ROUNDUP: Carthage pours it on late over Seneca; McDonald County erupts early to beat Joplin

Posted on August 30, 2023August 30, 2023 by Lucas Davis

CARTHAGE 9, SENECA 5

SENECA, Mo. — A scoreless game through three innings saw Seneca take the initial lead with a run in the fourth before a three-run fifth by Carthage swung the momentum in favor of the Tigers, who capped the win with a six-run seventh inning en route to the road win over the Indians on Tuesday.

Addison Wallace earned the complete-game win after allowing five runs, three earned, on 11 hits, a walk and eight strikeouts in seven innings.

Abigail Jamros took the loss after allowing nine runs, seven earned, on 11 hits, a walk and six strikeouts in seven innings.

Carthage’s Ashlyn Brust finished with two hits, two RBI and a run scored, while Brooklynn Dolon-Main had two hits and an RBI and Aven Willis had two hits and scored a run. Shelby Hegwer doubled, scored twice and drove in one.

Jamros had three hits, including a double, and RBI and scored a run for the Indians, while Kahli Fields doubled on the way to two hits, two RBI and a run scored. Abby Stelts had three hits, and an RBI.

Carthage (3-2) and Seneca (0-2) take part in the Paige Neal/Christina Freeman Invitational softball tournament on Friday and Saturday hosted by Joplin.

MCDONALD COUNTY 12, JOPLIN 2

ANDERSON, Mo. — McDonald County hung crooked numbers on the scoreboard in the first four innings and added a single tally in the fifth on the way to a five-inning win over Joplin on Tuesday.

Jaylee Brock earned the win after allowing two runs on eight hits and three walks in five innings.

Ava Wolf took the loss after allowing five runs, three earned, on four hits, two walks and three strikeouts in an inning of work. Caelyn Bobski allowed seven runs, five earned, on eight hits and two walks in 3 2/3 innings of relief.

Carlee Cooper had three hits, including a home run and a triple, a game-high four RBI and three runs scored, while Kearston Hopkins doubled and tripled, scored three times and drove in two for McDonald County. Katelynn Townsend finished with two hits, two runs scored and an RBI, while Brock had two hits and two RBI.

Abby Lowery, who doubled, and Jadyn Pankow each had two hits for the Eagles, while Lowery scored a run. Bailey Ledford doubled and drove in one.

Joplin (3-3) hosts the Paige Neal/Christina Freeman Invitational softball tournament on Friday and Saturday.

McDonald County (2-2) is at Marshfield on Thursday.

SOFTBALL ROUNDUP: Neosho tops Seneca; Carl Junction rallies past Cassville; Carthage falls

Posted on August 29, 2023August 30, 2023 by Lucas Davis

NEOSHO 9, SENECA 2

SENECA, Mo. — Neosho poured it on late with eight runs coming in the final three innings of a win over Seneca on Monday in the season opener for both teams.

The Wildcats took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning before both teams went scoreless through the next two frames. Neosho scored three runs in the fourth to take a four-run lead. Both teams traded a pair of tallies in the fifth before Neosho put the game away with a three-run sixth inning.

Olivia Emery earned the win after pitching four scoreless innings on four hits and five strikeouts.

Abigail Jamros took the loss after allowing nine runs, five earned, on nine hits, four walks and nine strikeouts in seven innings of work.

Addysan Hart had two hits, two RBI and scored a run, while Journey Arnall had a pair of hits and a pair of RBI. Beclynn Garrett had two hits, including a double, and scored a run.

Kahli Fields had two hits and scored a run to lead Seneca at the plate.

Neosho takes part in the Paige Neal/Christina Freeman Invitational kicking off on Sept. 1.

Seneca hosts Carthage on Tuesday.

CARL JUNCTION 8, CASSVILLE 4

CARL JUNCTION, Mo. — Carl Junction scored five runs in the final three innings to rally for a win over Cassville on Monday.

The Bulldogs scored three times in the first inning thanks to a two-out three-run home run from Izzie Southern. The Wildcats plated four runs in the third inning to take the lead before Carl Junction’s Ryleigh Palmer, who doubled, and Madi Olds had consecutive run-scoring hits to give the Bulldogs the 5-4 lead in the fourth. Carl Junction added two runs on a Cassville error in the fifth and Palmer brought another run home in the sixth with a sac fly.

Olds had two hits, scored a run and drove in a run to lead CJ at the dish. Southern homered, drove in three and scored twice. Palmer had a hit and two RBI with a run scored. Hannah Cantrell and Kady Hunt each had a hit and combined for three runs.

Kyler Hayward had two hits, two RBI and a run scored, while Kalee Lowe and Joei Blankenship each doubled on the way to two hits and a run scored.

Kiley Spencer earned the win for CJ after allowing four runs, three earned, on nine hits and six strikeouts in a complete-game effort.

Aubrey Stoufer took the loss after allowing eight runs, four earned, on six hits, five walks and seven strikeouts in six innings.

Carl Junction (4-1) is at Hillcrest on Wednesday.

CAMDENTON 6, CARTHAGE 1

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Camdenton scored five runs in the second inning fueled by a pair of Carthage errors en route to a win over the Tigers on Monday.

Addison Wallace took the loss for Carthage after allowing six unearned runs on eight hits, two walks and two strikeouts in seven innings.

Cayden VonSande earned the win in the circle after allowing one run on six hits, two walks and seven strikeouts in seven innings.

Shelby Hegwer had a hit and an RBI to lead the Tigers at the plate. Lexa Youngblood, Brooklynn Dolon-Main, Alexis Smith, Lottie Youngblood and Aven Willis all collected hits for Carthage.

Addyson Clay had three hits and two RBI, while VonSande had two hits and an RBI and Ellie Moore added two hits and a run scored to lead the Lakers at the plate.

Carthage (2-2) is at Seneca on Tuesday.

BOYS SWIMMING: Carthage wins Zizzer Invitational for 2nd straight year

Posted on August 28, 2023 by Jason Peake

WEST PLAINS, Mo. — The Carthage High School boys swimming team repeated as Zizzer Invitational champions on Saturday.

The Tigers compiled 406 points at the outdoor event, with host West Plains second (306) and Poplar Bluff third (276).

Rounding out the team standings were Monett (261), Camdenton (219), Hillcrest (167), Greenwood (166) and Parkview (23).

Braden McBride’s Tigers won four events.

Carthage’s 200-yard medley relay team of Kellen Frieling, Braxton McBride, Will Wright and Maveric Allphin took first with a meet record time of 2:01.06.

The Tigers were second in the 400 freestyle relay, as McBride, Wright, Frieling and Aydan Nye recorded a time of 4:02.

Wright won two individual events, the 200 IM with a time of 2:26 and the 400 freestyle in 4:47.

Frieling took first in the 100 backstroke in 1:05.

Frieling and Nye finished second and fourth, respectively, in the 200 freestyle. Nye was also the runner-up to his teammate in the 400 free.

Braxton McBride finished second in the 100 freestyle and also took fourth in the 50 freestyle, with Allphin sixth in the same event.

Also for the Tigers, Allphin and Dylan Evans finished fourth and fifth in the 100 breaststroke, Daryl Martin placed fifth in the 100 freestyle, Ben Rogers took sixth in the 400 free and Ryan Steinbach finished seventh in the 200 IM.

The team of Martin, Rogers, Nye and Allphin finished fifth in the 200 freestyle relay.

Also of note, Monett’s Jayden Apostol won the 100-yard breaststroke with a meet and pool record time of 1:15.58. Apostol was the runner-up in the 200 IM.

The Tigers will host the Carthage Relays on Tuesday at the Fair Acres Family YMCA.

SOFTBALL: Carthage wraps up play in Morrisville tourney

Posted on August 27, 2023 by Lucas Davis

MORRISVILLE, Mo. — Carthage opened the season with a 2-1 record in the Morrisville Softball Tournament over the weekend.

Carthage opened the season with a 6-2 win over Waynesville on Friday. The Tigers took an 11-1 loss against Republic before bouncing back with a 4-1 win over Cassville on Saturday.

Addie Wallace earned the win in the circle against Waynesville after allowing two runs on four hits, a walk and nine strikeouts in five innings.

Alexis Smith and Lexa Youngblood each had two hits, scored twice and drove in a run. Youngblood also tripled. Lottie Youngblood had a hit, an RBI and scored a run, while Shelby Hegwer and Aven Willis each had a hit and an RBI.

Wallace took the loss against Republic after allowing seven runs, six earned, on seven hits, a walk and a strikeout in two innings.

Jenna Calhoon doubled at the plate for the Tigers, while Smith, Lexa Youngblood and Willis all collected hits. Youngblood picked up an RBI.

In the finale against Cassville, Wallace earned the win after allowing one run on three hits, two walks and five strikeouts in four innings.

Brooklyn Dolon-Main had two hits and drove in a run, while Calhoon doubled and scored a run. Lexa Youngblood and Lottie Youngblood each had hits and drove in one, with Lexa also scoring a run.

Carthage hosts Camdenton on Monday.

SOFTBALL: Carl Junction, Joplin in action at Aurora tourney

Posted on August 27, 2023 by Lucas Davis

AURORA, Mo. — Joplin and Carl Junction kicked off its softball season in the Kickoff Classic softball tournament hosted by Aurora over the weekend.

CARL JUNCTION GOES 3-1

The Bulldogs started the season with a 3-1 record after beating Joplin 9-8 and Aurora 16-6 on Friday before falling to Branson 12-11 on Saturday and bouncing back with an 11-3 win over Hillcrest to close the Kickoff Classic.

In the victory over Joplin, CJ’s Kiley Spencer earned the win after allowing eight runs, six earned, on nine hits and a walk in six innings. Ava Wolf took the loss for the Eagles after allowing nine runs, eight earned, on 10 hits, five walks and five strikeouts in six innings.

At the plate, CJ’s Hannah Cantrell had two hits, scored and drove in one. Izzie Southern doubled on the way to two hits and two runs scored. Kinley Spindler also doubled and had two hits, scored once and drove in a run. Kadence Hunt hit a grand slam in the sixth inning.

For Joplin, Bailey Ledford had three hits, including a double, scored three runs and drove in a run, while Jadyn Pankow doubled and drove in three. Gracie Williamson also had a hit and drive in two.

Hannah Cole picked up the win against Aurora after allowing four runs, two earned, on four hits, two walks and strikeout in two innings. Ryleigh Palmer doubled twice on the way to four hits, three RBI and two runs scored. Southern and Cantrell each had three hits and combined four seven runs and three RBI.

Spencer was saddled with the loss against Branson to open Saturday’s play after allowing eight runs on 11 hits and two strikeouts. Spencer had two hits at the plate and scored twice. Madi Olds had two hits, two RBI and scored a run. Hunt homered and drove in three.

In the final game against the Hornets, Spencer earned the win after allowing three runs on four hits, three walks and eight strikeouts. Cantrell had two hits, including a triple, and scored three runs. Olds doubled, drove in three and scored a run. Georgia Arnold doubled, scored a run and drove in a run. Hunt had a hit, two RBI and two runs scored.

Carl Junction has its home opener against Cassville on Monday.

JOPLIN FINISHES 2-2

Joplin finished the Kickoff Classic with a 2-2 record, beating Aurora 18-11 in the opener before falling to Carl Junction in the nightcap on Friday. The Eagles finished 1-1 on Saturday with a 15-0 win against Hillcrest and a 12-3 defeat against Branson to close play on Saturday.

In the victory over the Houn’ Dawgs, Caelyn Bobski earned the win in the circle after allowing 11 runs, six earned, on 11 hits, four walks and a strikeout in five innings.

Bailey Ledford, Abby Lowery, Jadyn Pankow and Libby Munn all collected three hits apiece. Lowery doubled and homered and finished with five RBI and four runs scored. Pankow and Munn homered and had three RBI and two runs scored each. Ledford doubled and had three RBI and two runs scored. Gracie Williamson, who doubled, Lily Glover and Megan Meeker each had two hits. Williamson scored three times and drove in one, while Meeker scored once and drove in a run.

Bobski earned the three-inning win after pitching a no-hitter on four strikeouts and a walk. Ledford had three hits, scored twice and drove in two, while Ashley Phillips had two hits, two RBI and scored a run. Jadyn Pankow doubled, drove in three and scored twice and Riley Kelly had a hit, three RBI and scored a run. Maria Loum doubled, scored two runs and drove in two.

Ava Wolf took the loss against Branson after allowing 11 runs, three earned, on nine hits in 2 2/3 innings. Wolf added an RBI single at the plate, while Ledford had two hits and scored a run.

Joplin hosts Kickapoo on Monday at 4:30 p.m.

FOOTBALL PREVIEW: Carthage has new faces in big roles in ’23

Posted on August 22, 2023August 22, 2023 by Jason Peake

The Carthage High School football team will have many new faces in key roles this fall, as the Tigers lost 17 starters to graduation.

Simply put, Carthage must replace one of the best senior classes in program history. It was a group that finished a combined 42-6 overall during their four years of high school.

Last year’s seniors won 39 of their final 43 games, and 12 of them earned postseason accolades at the conclusion of last fall, including four all-staters.

In the team’s stellar 2022 season, Carthage ended the season in the Class 5 semifinals, falling to eventual champion Francis Howell 35-13. Carthage finished with an impressive record of 11-2, with a 22-21 setback to Nixa the team’s lone regular season loss. Also in ’22, the Tigers captured a district championship for the seventh time in nine years and shared the conference title with Nixa.

Now, entering the 2023 campaign, Carthage has just five returning starters back this season, all on the offensive side of the ball.

“We will have a new look with several new faces,” Carthage coach Jon Guidie said. “We graduated all 11 starters on defense, so we’ll need some leadership to happen quickly on that side of the ball. We should have some good size and speed up front.

“Our O-line will need to carry us until we gain some experience with our skilled positions. I like that group with four returning starters.”

How the team’s new starters perform under the Friday night lights will obviously be the key to success this fall.

And as Guidie noted, ready or not, those new starters will get their chance to shine on Friday nights.

“We have some hard-working players,” Guidie said. “We’re excited to watch them develop throughout the season.”

Guidie, now in his 19th season at Carthage, noted size up front and overall team speed should be strengths of the Tigers.

Among the key players who graduated last year was outstanding two-way standout Luke Gall, who garnered the Central Ozark Conference’s Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year awards.

Gall, a standout player both offensively at running back and defensively at linebacker during his prep career, rushed for 2,000 yards and 40 touchdowns on 246 carries and made 106 total tackles during his senior campaign.

OFFENSE

Four of the five returning starters are offensive linemen.

Seniors Malachi Housh (6-0, 290), Greyson Browning (6-1, 210) and Edward Carreto (6-3, 260) and junior Taylor Stevens-Diggs (6-1, 240) all return with starting experience on the O-line. Housh and Carreto earned all-conference recognition in 2022.

Housh will be a three-year starter.

“He’s one of the strongest players in program history,” Guidie commented.

Guidie expects big things from his other returning offensive linemen.

“He’s a very smart player,” Guidie said of Browning. “He directs our O-line from the center spot.

“He has a nice, big frame at 6-3, 260,” Guidie said of Carreto. “He had a really great junior season.

“I’m really excited to watch him (Stevens-Diggs) this year,” Guidie said. “He’s a big, strong, athletic player.”

As you’d expect with the four key performers back, Guidie expects the O-line to be a team strength.

The fifth returning starter on offense is junior Landyn Collins (5-11, 205), who is expected to be a featured running back for the Tigers.

Collins started all 13 games last year as a sophomore at H-back, primarily blocking for Gall.

“He’ll likely move to running back for us this year,” Guidie said. “He’s a nice downhill runner with great instincts.”

Carthage will have a new signal-caller after the graduation of dual-threat Cooper Jadwin, who ran for 1,279 yards and threw for 1,252 yards last fall.

Junior Brady Carlton (6-0, 180) is the likely starter at quarterback.

“He has a great understanding of our offense,” Guidie said.

Players who are competing for starting positions include senior running back Jonah Eby, junior tight end Karson Murray, junior wide receiver Langston Morgan, junior wide receiver Jackson Hettinger, senior wide receiver Darrin Witt and sophomore lineman Blayne Lilienkamp.

Guidie noted Murray (6-4, 215) is a physical blocker and a great route runner.

“I think Karson will have a big year,” Guidie said.

Carthage’s high-powered spread offense averaged 38.8 points per, with 323 rushing yards and 103 passing yards per game in ’22.

DEFENSE

Again, Carthage does not return a starter on defense, so the Tigers will have many new faces in big roles.

Guidie noted senior linebacker Ryan Phillips (6-0, 185) could be a leader of the defensive unit.

“Smart player…he’ll be our voice of the defense,” Guidie said.

Eby and sophomore Cooper Lilienkamp are other linebackers.

Senior Orey Bader and sophomore Landon Bland are defensive ends, while juniors Trevor Meadows and Nolan Brown are tackles. Meadows is 6-4 and 240 pounds.

Morgan is a possible two-way starter at WR/DB, while Hettinger and sophomore Braxton Ralston are defensive back candidates.

Carthage’s defense was stellar a year ago, as the Tigers gave up just 16.5 points per game.

WEEK 1 IS HERE

Carthage opens the season on Friday at Republic. The Tigers’ first home game will be against Branson in Week 2.

“Obviously, the COC is going to be loaded again,” said Guidie, now the COC’s longest-tenured football coach. “Every week will be a challenge for us.”

SOFTBALL PREVIEW: Carthage returns plethora of experience and ready to compete

Posted on August 16, 2023 by Lucas Davis

Carthage softball has been a model of consistency over the last several years, and the Tigers are looking to continue that trend in 2023.

The Tigers finished with 19 wins a year ago, which has been near the average over the past several seasons. After graduating a pair from last year’s team, Carthage returns a plethora of varsity experience with the opportunity to surpass the bar set over the last few seasons under coach Stephanie Ray.

“The girls are excited to get back on the field and show how hard they have worked in the offseason,” Ray said. “They are ready to get out there and prove they are a team to not be overlooked this season. We finished last season 19-16, with six of those losses by one run. This was our third winning season in a row while averaging 20 wins a season. Of course, we are looking to now make this four. Even though we graduated two seniors, we have nine other girls who started at some point last year and made huge contributions to the success of our season. We possibly could start Game 1 with girls who have all started in a varsity game before, which is huge.”

Three seniors return to the starting lineup this season—catcher Brooklynn Dolon-Main (.313 BA, 20 RBI), 1B Alexis Smith (.284, 29 RBI) and OF Shelby Hegwer (24 RBI).

The returning junior class is filled out by OF Lexa Youngblood (.319, 30 runs, 14 RBI), who will be transitioning from left to center field, all-conference and all-district 3B Jenna Calhoon (.445, 5 HRs, 37 RBI), all-district SS Ashlyn Brust (.362, 39 runs, 21 RBI, 20 SBs), DP Aven Willis (.300, 28 runs) and P Addie Wallace (9-5, 3.78 ERA).

Sophomore 2B Lottie Youngblood returns her versatility to the varsity squad as well.

“The fact that we have nine girls returning with real varsity experience is definitely a strength for our program,” Ray said. “They know what to expect when the season gets going, and they know what it takes to win games. They are competitors. They compete with each other every day at practice to get better and push their teammates. They know in order to reach our goals, they have to find that next level.”

New faces to the varsity level include juniors Addison Bayless (OF) and Ali Wicklund (C) and sophomore 1B Jaycee Bayless. Several freshmen, including P Emma Stark, could also make an appearance at the varsity level this season as well.

“We have the capability to put the pressure on other defenses with our speed,” Ray said about her team’s strengths this season. “Last year, our offensive production was up from the previous two years. That was definitely exciting to see. We averaged a little over seven runs a game while only being shutout once. Even with the graduation of Landry Cochran and Ashlynn Jackson, we return a majority of our offensive production. We return at least five starters who each drove in 20 plus runs last season.

“Defensively, we return our whole infield. They have had the summer to continue to work and grow together.”

While defense and offensive production, along with experience, will be Carthage’s biggest strengths, the biggest concern this season for the Tigers will be in the circle, but it won’t be for a lack of options between Wallace, Lottie Youngblood and Stark.

“Our pitching staff, as a whole will be really young this season, but they each bring something

different to the table,” Ray said. “All three are hard workers and have been putting in the time this off season for the chance to compete this fall.”

With so many players returning this season, Coach Ray wants to see her team make the necessary improvements the Tigers struggled with at times last season. Most notably, getting better in late-game situations with the lead and when working on a comeback.

“In order for us to be successful this year, we need to rely on our strengths and learn to play with leads and shut the door and not allow teams back in the game,” Ray said. “Fortunately, we have nine girls who have tons of varsity experience and are all another year older.

“So far, our senior class has done a great job leading this young group during the summer and

through the first week of practice. They have shown tremendous growth and I believe their leadership is going to be key as we continue on into our season.”

Carthage opens the season with an appearance in the 29th Annual Morrisville Softball Tournament on Aug. 25-26 before hosting Camdenton in the home opener on Aug. 28.

SWIMMING PREVIEW: Carthage features returning state medalists in ’23

Posted on August 10, 2023 by Jason Peake

The Carthage High School boys swim team will be led by a group of returning state medalists this fall.

Senior Kellen Frieling, junior Braxton McBride and sophomore Will Wright all return to the pool after bringing home medals from last year’s MSHSAA Boys Swimming and Diving Championships.

Frieling finished 15th in the 100-yard backstroke at the state meet.

The Tigers earned all-state recognition in two relays last year, as the 200-yard medley relay team of Frieling, McBride, Wright and Eli Cox finished 15th and the same foursome took 16th in the 400 free relay. Cox was the lone senior of the relays.

Also key performers back for the Tigers are seniors Noah Blackford, Daryl Martin and Ben Rogers.

Juniors Angel Guzman, Wyatt Hole, Emerson Ixcol, Aydan Nye and Ryan Steinbach, along with sophomores Maveric Allphin, Camden Campbell and Carter Yost are other returning athletes with prior varsity experience.

Newcomers to the team include junior Caleb Bonilla-Pastor, sophomores Satchel Eckerson, Drystan Hibdon, Austin Huskey and Hayden Wilkinson and freshmen Dylan Evans and Bennett Ragsdale.

The 2022 season was one to remember for the Tigers, as Carthage captured its first-ever Central Ozark Conference championship before a solid showing at the state meet.

The Tigers won three events at the COC Meet, the 400 free relay, the 200 medley relay and the 50 freestyle (Braxton McBride).

With last year’s success, and with a solid group returning, Carthage coach Braden McBride noted the team is very excited to get the season underway.

“We are optimistic about our upcoming season,” Coach McBride said. “We have a good number of experienced swimmers who balance those who are new to the sport.”

As far as team strengths, Coach McBride noted the Tigers have great team chemistry.

“We have a very tight-knit group of young men,” he said. “We focus on team success before individual success. These components will help us achieve our goals.”

The Tigers must overcome the loss of four seniors, Trey Nye, Will Wallace, Landon White and Cox, who played big roles on last year’s squad.

With that, the Tigers will have some varsity newcomers in key roles.

“We have a large number of swimmers who are new to the sport,” McBride said. “We’ll go through growing pains at the beginning of the season. Our goal is that they will start contributing to team success by the end of the season.”

As far as a key to success this fall, McBride mentioned putting the team over the individual, along with continued hard work in practice.

“We have a motto “The We is greater than Me.” We will have success when the athletes on the team put each other first.”

Carthage is scheduled to begin the ’23 season on Aug. 26 at the West Plains outdoor meet.

CROSS COUNTRY PREVIEW: Carthage Tigers are young and hungry for success in 2023

Posted on August 9, 2023August 9, 2023 by Lucas Davis

With Carthage graduating several strong runners from both the boys and the girls teams, the Tigers will be looking for their younger athletes to step into a bigger role to find success for the upcoming 2023 season.

While the losses of Mildred Elias and Sonia Lopez on the girls side, and Miguel Solano, Caleb Fewin and Michael Lanyon for the boys, will certainly be felt for Carthage, there is strong optimism this season thanks to the talent of the returning athletes and possibilities with the new faces on each squad.

“We have a pretty young team overall on both sides but we should still have success on the team and individual side with some strong runners returning and some great new additions,” Carthage coach Brian Crigger said. “The girls team has the potential to be one of the best we have had in years. The boys lack depth but are pretty strong through our first few runners. We will need some runners to step up if we want to bring home any team trophies this year.”

CHS GIRLS

While the girls only have one senior next season—Jenna Wilson—they have a stable of juniors in returning state qualifier Maggie Boyd, Katy Witherspoon and Jennifer Rodas to provide the Tigers with four strong, capable runners with plenty of varsity experience.

Expected to make an impact for Carthage at the varsity level are juniors Kimberly Monterroso and Sharon Velasquez as well as sophomore Sarah Wilson, with senior Gudelia Garza and sophomores Joanna Garcia, Julissa Hernandez and Esli Hernandez all expected to compete for varsity time as well.

“We have a lot of different strengths this season, but I think one of our main strengths is our dedication and commitment to hard work,” Crigger said. “The great thing about cross country is you can develop yourself into a great runner with just hard work and we certainly have some young men and women that put in the work.”

Also in the mix will be freshmen Genesis Fuentes, Marlene Marquez, Tyla Bass, Aliyn Gonzalez Oxlaj and Kelly Barrios Perez as well as sophomore Wynlee Nichols.

CHS BOYS

The Carthage boys are excited to see who steps up this season to fill the void left behind by Solano, Fewin and Lanyon.

Fortunately, the Tigers will have some senior leadership in Eddy Fuentes and Xander Vazquez, who will be looked at to anchor the team at the varsity level.

Also back to the varsity squad are sophomores Devin Smith and Javen Byrd, both of whom are expected to be heavy contributors.

Junior Shane Ritzema is expected to help contribute in the varsity runs this season, while sophomore Brayan Perez Flores and freshman Denis Velasquez are newcomers to the varsity unit but will be relied upon to help score points.

“We will certainly miss Caleb Fewin, Miguel Solano and Micheal Lanyon on the varsity boys side,” Crigger said. “They were not only very good runners, but also great leaders on the team. We will need people to step up to fill the holes in leadership that they left when graduating.”

OPTIMISTIC

Crigger is excited to get the season underway for his Tigers. With so many uncertainties but so much enthusiasm, he’s excited to see how this season unfolds.

“I think our biggest key to success is just continuing to show up and work hard. Consistency is key in distance running and the only way to get better is to put in consistent hard work throughout the year, that includes the season as well as the offseason. Luckily, we have a good amount of runners that were with us all summer and willing to put in that hard work.

“I am very excited for the upcoming season. We have been working hard all summer running at 6 a.m. all through the week and we are ready for our hard work to pay off in the races. We have a lot of potential and I am eager to see how good we can be on both sides.”

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