Story by NU Athletic Communication

LINCOLN, Neb. - The No. 1 Nebraska volleyball team swept Wright State 25-16, 25-16, 25-20 in front of a crowd of 8,731 at John Cook Arena at the Bob Devaney Sports Center on day one of the Ameritas Players Challenge on Friday night.

Harper Murray had 11 kills and nine digs while hitting .500, and freshman Manaia Ogbechie recorded eight kills and five blocks in her first collegiate start, and she hit .583. Virginia Adriano chipped in seven kills and four blocks.&nbsp;

The Huskers (5-0) hit .330 and held the Raiders (2-2) to a .073 hitting percentage.&nbsp;

Andi Jackson tallied six kills, and Taylor Landfair and Skyler Pierce each had three. Bergen Reilly notched 30 assists and nine digs. Laney Choboy also added nine digs.&nbsp;

Nebraska had eight blocks to one for Wright State.

Set 1: Sigler served an ace to start the match and the Huskers built a 10-6 lead. Wright State rallied to go ahead 13-12 after a 5-1 run. But the Huskers answered with a 10-1 run to gain control, 22-14. Murray, Jackson and Landfair had back-to-back-to-back kills in that stretch, and Murray served an ace. Two more kills by Landfair, and one each by Ogbechie and Reilly closed out a 25-16 win.&nbsp;

Set 2: Wright State led 6-4 when the Huskers scored a 7-1 run keyed by two Ogbechie kills and two blocks by the freshman with Adriano to go up 11-7. Two straight kills by Murray made it 14-9, and another one put NU up 15-11 at the media timeout. Pierce and Ogbechie combined for a block before Ogbechie and Pierce kills made it 19-13 Big Red. Adriano had three kills down the stretch and a block with Ogbechie as the Huskers won 25-16 again.&nbsp;

Set 3: The Raiders built a 9-4 lead out of the intermission break. The Huskers chipped away to within 11-10 after a block by Adriano and Jackson, and a kill by Jackson. NU went up 16-13 after back-to-back kills by Reilly and Pierce. An ace by Reilly made it 19-15 Huskers. Ogbechie added another kill and a solo block by Murray put the Big Red up 21-16. Ogbechie, Adriano, Murray and Jackson tallied kills to finish off the 25-20 win.

Up Next: The Huskers finish the Ameritas Players Challenge on Sunday at 1 p.m. against California on BTN. Fans are welcome to attend the 11 a.m. match on Saturday between Cal and Wright State. Admission is free.&nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationLINCOLN, Neb. - The No. 1 Nebraska volleyball team swept Wright State 25-16, 25-16, 25-20 in front of a crowd of 8,731 at John Cook Arena at the Bob Devaney Sports Center on day one of the Ameritas Players Challenge on Friday night.Harper Murray had 11 kills and nine digs while hitting .500, and freshman Manaia Ogbechie recorded eight kills and five blocks in her first collegiate start, and she hit .583. Virginia Adriano chipped in seven kills and four blocks.&nbsp;The Huskers (5-0) hit .330 and held the Raiders (2-2) to a .073 hitting percentage.&nbsp;Andi Jackson tallied six kills, and Taylor Landfair and Skyler Pierce each had three. Bergen Reilly notched 30 assists and nine digs. Laney Choboy also added nine digs.&nbsp;Nebraska had eight blocks to one for Wright State.Set 1: Sigler served an ace to start the match and the Huskers built a 10-6 lead. Wright State rallied to go ahead 13-12 after a 5-1 run. But the Huskers answered with a 10-1 run to gain control, 22-14. Murray, Jackson and Landfair had back-to-back-to-back kills in that stretch, and Murray served an ace. Two more kills by Landfair, and one each by Ogbechie and Reilly closed out a 25-16 win.&nbsp;Set 2: Wright State led 6-4 when the Huskers scored a 7-1 run keyed by two Ogbechie kills and two blocks by the freshman with Adriano to go up 11-7. Two straight kills by Murray made it 14-9, and another one put NU up 15-11 at the media timeout. Pierce and Ogbechie combined for a block before Ogbechie and Pierce kills made it 19-13 Big Red. Adriano had three kills down the stretch and a block with Ogbechie as the Huskers won 25-16 again.&nbsp;Set 3: The Raiders built a 9-4 lead out of the intermission break. The Huskers chipped away to within 11-10 after a block by Adriano and Jackson, and a kill by Jackson. NU went up 16-13 after back-to-back kills by Reilly and Pierce. An ace by Reilly made it 19-15 Huskers. Ogbechie added another kill and a solo block by Murray put the Big Red up 21-16. Ogbechie, Adriano, Murray and Jackson tallied kills to finish off the 25-20 win.Up Next: The Huskers finish the Ameritas Players Challenge on Sunday at 1 p.m. against California on BTN. Fans are welcome to attend the 11 a.m. match on Saturday between Cal and Wright State. Admission is free.&nbsp;

Huskers sweep Wright State

Story by NPCC Athletic Communications

Torrington, Wyo. – The North Platte Community College men's golf team kicked off the 2025 campaign at the Eastern Wyoming College Fall Invite in Torrington, Wyo. The Knights wrapped up the two-day event in eighth place, finishing 86-over par as a team.

Freshman Simon Capocci&nbsp;led the way for North Platte, carding a two-round total of 157 (+13) to tie for 23rd place individually. Capocci carded an opening round 80 before shaving off three strokes to close with a final round 77.

Sophomore&nbsp;Layne Smotzer (+16)&nbsp;finished the tournament tied in 29th, while improving his score by six strokes in the final round.

Chandler Frahm began his collegiate career&nbsp;with two round score of 165 (+21) to close out the tournament in 36th place. Darin Neben&nbsp;recorded his best round on Friday to finish with a total score of 180 (+36).

Jason Jensen&nbsp;rounded out the Knights, finishing in 47th with a two-round total of 198 (+54), while posting his best round of 97 on Thursday afternoon.

Knights will return to the links to host the North Platte Community College Tournament&nbsp;with day one at Rivers Edge Golf Course and day two at Lake Maloney Golf Course&nbsp;Sept. 18-19.

T23.&nbsp;Simon Capocci&nbsp;- 80-77 (+13)

T29.&nbsp;Layne Smotzer&nbsp;- 83-77 (+16)

47.&nbsp;Jason Jensen&nbsp;- 97-101 (+54)

Eastern Wyoming (A) - 289-293 (+6)

Northeastern Junior College - 316-300 (+40)

Lamar - 313-306 (+43)McCook - 317-321 (+62)

Central Wyoming (B) - 320-322 (+66)

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsTorrington, Wyo. – The North Platte Community College men's golf team kicked off the 2025 campaign at the Eastern Wyoming College Fall Invite in Torrington, Wyo. The Knights wrapped up the two-day event in eighth place, finishing 86-over par as a team.Freshman Simon Capocci&nbsp;led the way for North Platte, carding a two-round total of 157 (+13) to tie for 23rd place individually. Capocci carded an opening round 80 before shaving off three strokes to close with a final round 77.Sophomore&nbsp;Layne Smotzer (+16)&nbsp;finished the tournament tied in 29th, while improving his score by six strokes in the final round.Chandler Frahm began his collegiate career&nbsp;with two round score of 165 (+21) to close out the tournament in 36th place. Darin Neben&nbsp;recorded his best round on Friday to finish with a total score of 180 (+36).Jason Jensen&nbsp;rounded out the Knights, finishing in 47th with a two-round total of 198 (+54), while posting his best round of 97 on Thursday afternoon.Knights will return to the links to host the North Platte Community College Tournament&nbsp;with day one at Rivers Edge Golf Course and day two at Lake Maloney Golf Course&nbsp;Sept. 18-19.North PlatteT23.&nbsp;Simon Capocci&nbsp;- 80-77 (+13)T29.&nbsp;Layne Smotzer&nbsp;- 83-77 (+16)36.&nbsp;Chandler Frahm - 81-84 (+21)45.&nbsp;Darin Neben&nbsp;- 92-88 (+36)47.&nbsp;Jason Jensen&nbsp;- 97-101 (+54)Team StandingsEastern Wyoming (A) - 289-293 (+6)Central Wyoming (A) - 308-283&nbsp;(+15)Eastern Wyoming (B) - 308-291 (+23)Northeastern Junior College - 316-300 (+40)Lamar - 313-306 (+43)McCook - 317-321 (+62)Central Wyoming (B) - 320-322 (+66)North Platte - 336-326 (+86)

Knights season opener at Eastern Wyoming Tournament

Arcadia-Loup City 48 vs. Southern Valley 38

Dundy County Stratton 42 vs Bridgeport 16

North Platte St. Patrick's: North Platte St. Patrick's 56 vs. Sutherland 8

Perkins County 46 vs. Sandhills Valley 16

Arcadia-Loup City 48 vs. Southern Valley 38Arthur County 44 vs Medicine Valley 8Brady 85 vs Morrill 8Central City 48 @ Cozad 7Dundy County Stratton 42 vs Bridgeport 16Gothenburg 41 @ Chase County 0Hi-Line 28 @ South Loup 6Hitchcock County 66 @ Maxwell 12Lincoln East 24 vs North Platte 0North Platte St. Patrick's: North Platte St. Patrick's 56 vs. Sutherland 8Ogallala 18 vs Broken Bow 7Perkins County 46 vs. Sandhills Valley 16

Area Football Scores from 9-5

By: Daphne LaVigne CSC Sports Information

CHADRON, Neb. – The Chadron State volleyball team played two games on Friday at the Eagle Classic, one against Augustana College and the other against Northern State University. The Eagles played a thrilling five-set match against Augustana, taking the first two sets before the Vikings came back for a 23-25, 23-25, 25-20, 25-20, 15-11 win. The Eagles then fell against nationally ranked Northern State University in three sets, 25-20, 25-11, 25-22.

Augustana and the Eagles were back and forth most of the game, the ending score being within five points of each other for all sets. Augustana won its second straight five-set match after beating Black Hills State in five on Thursday.

Kally Kirkwood led the team against Augustana with 19 kills, followed by Mataya Ward with 13. Kirkwood also led the team with three blocks, tying with Shelbi Hazlitt. 

Augustana opened the first set by scoring three points before an attack error put the Eagles on the board. The set continued to change leads until a four point streak from Chadron put the Eagles ahead 12-10. Kally Kirkwood took over with five kills in the set, with her final one giving CSC a 21-19 lead. With the score tied at 23, an Augustana service error followed by an ace from Avery Lacy ended the set for the Eagles. 

After the Eagles scored the first point of the second set with a kill from Hazlitt, the Vikings answered with their own four point run to lead 4-1. The Eagles tied the score again at 7-7 after a kill from Kirkwood and a bad set from the Vikings. After back-to-back kills from Mataya Ward gave the Eagles a 23-22 lead, CSC's Gibson Beckler scored the last two points with a kill and an ace, ending the set 25-23. 

The beginning of the third set bounced back and forth until the Vikings went on a five point run, making the score 9-3. Augustana continued to lead the rest of the set despite the attempts of Chadron State, including a five point streak from the Eagles that cut the lead to 21-18. Ultimately the Vikings took the third set, 25-20, sending the game into a fourth set. 

The Eagles came into the fourth set fighting, starting with kills from Hazlitt and Kirkwood. The Eagles were able to hold onto this lead until Augustana tied it 7-7 from an attack error. Augustana grew their lead with multiple 4-0 scoring runs, eventually taking the set with a 25-20 finish, tying the set scores. 

Augustana carried the momentum from the past two sets into the finishing set. The Eagles fought hard going on a four point streak to tie the score 7-7. Augustana pulled ahead, winning four of the last five points to win the set 15-11 and win the match 3-2. 

In the Eagles' following game against Northern, the first set began with a kill from Beckler before the Wolves took control, keeping the lead the rest of the set. The Eagles had a four point run with kills from Ward and Beckler and an ace from Shelby Harding, cutting the lead to 18-15. Despite the run, the set ended 25-20, Northern. 

The Wolves came in hot for the second set, scoring six straight points to open. The Eagles tried to respond, but Northern won the second set handily, 25-11. 

CSC fought back in the third set, going on a six point run in the beginning, with kills from Bella Adams and Jillian Donovan and an ace from Beckler to take the lead 8-4. The teams continued to compete, with Northern scoring five points in a row to take the lead before a kill from Hazlitt and another ace from Harding gave the Eagles the lead back at 14-13. The set was neck to neck before Northern pulled away, ending the set 25-22, and winning in straight sets. 

Ward led the team against Northern State with seven kills, followed by Kirkwood and Beckler with five. Harding led the team in serving, scoring three aces. Adams, Ward and Hazlitt all tied with three blocks. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757166456376.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By: Daphne LaVigne CSC Sports InformationCHADRON, Neb. – The Chadron State volleyball team played two games on Friday at the Eagle Classic, one against Augustana College and the other against Northern State University. The Eagles played a thrilling five-set match against Augustana, taking the first two sets before the Vikings came back for a 23-25, 23-25, 25-20, 25-20, 15-11 win. The Eagles then fell against nationally ranked Northern State University in three sets, 25-20, 25-11, 25-22.Augustana and the Eagles were back and forth most of the game, the ending score being within five points of each other for all sets. Augustana won its second straight five-set match after beating Black Hills State in five on Thursday.Kally Kirkwood led the team against Augustana with 19 kills, followed by Mataya Ward with 13. Kirkwood also led the team with three blocks, tying with Shelbi Hazlitt. Augustana opened the first set by scoring three points before an attack error put the Eagles on the board. The set continued to change leads until a four point streak from Chadron put the Eagles ahead 12-10. Kally Kirkwood took over with five kills in the set, with her final one giving CSC a 21-19 lead. With the score tied at 23, an Augustana service error followed by an ace from Avery Lacy ended the set for the Eagles. After the Eagles scored the first point of the second set with a kill from Hazlitt, the Vikings answered with their own four point run to lead 4-1. The Eagles tied the score again at 7-7 after a kill from Kirkwood and a bad set from the Vikings. After back-to-back kills from Mataya Ward gave the Eagles a 23-22 lead, CSC's Gibson Beckler scored the last two points with a kill and an ace, ending the set 25-23. The beginning of the third set bounced back and forth until the Vikings went on a five point run, making the score 9-3. Augustana continued to lead the rest of the set despite the attempts of Chadron State, including a five point streak from the Eagles that cut the lead to 21-18. Ultimately the Vikings took the third set, 25-20, sending the game into a fourth set. The Eagles came into the fourth set fighting, starting with kills from Hazlitt and Kirkwood. The Eagles were able to hold onto this lead until Augustana tied it 7-7 from an attack error. Augustana grew their lead with multiple 4-0 scoring runs, eventually taking the set with a 25-20 finish, tying the set scores. Augustana carried the momentum from the past two sets into the finishing set. The Eagles fought hard going on a four point streak to tie the score 7-7. Augustana pulled ahead, winning four of the last five points to win the set 15-11 and win the match 3-2. In the Eagles' following game against Northern, the first set began with a kill from Beckler before the Wolves took control, keeping the lead the rest of the set. The Eagles had a four point run with kills from Ward and Beckler and an ace from Shelby Harding, cutting the lead to 18-15. Despite the run, the set ended 25-20, Northern. The Wolves came in hot for the second set, scoring six straight points to open. The Eagles tried to respond, but Northern won the second set handily, 25-11. CSC fought back in the third set, going on a six point run in the beginning, with kills from Bella Adams and Jillian Donovan and an ace from Beckler to take the lead 8-4. The teams continued to compete, with Northern scoring five points in a row to take the lead before a kill from Hazlitt and another ace from Harding gave the Eagles the lead back at 14-13. The set was neck to neck before Northern pulled away, ending the set 25-22, and winning in straight sets. Ward led the team against Northern State with seven kills, followed by Kirkwood and Beckler with five. Harding led the team in serving, scoring three aces. Adams, Ward and Hazlitt all tied with three blocks.

🏐 CSC drops to 0-3 with losses at Eagle Classic Friday

🏈 Week 2 - Nebraska High School Football Scoreboard

Northern Valley, KS at Crawford - 11:00 Saturday

<figure>
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 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>🏈 Week 2 - Nebraska High School Football Scoreboard◼ Thursday, September 4Wallace 48 @ Creek Valley 12Garden County 52 vs Cody-Kilgore 15South Platte 50 vs Paxton 7Mullen 35 @ Maywood-Hayes Center 16◼ Friday, September 5Alliance 28 vs Holdrege 14Chadron 34 vs Valentine 0Scottsbluff 56,Lincoln Northwest 7Gering 46 vs Mitchell 14Dundy County Stratton 42 vs Bridgeport 16O'Neill 63,&nbsp;Gordon-Rushville 8 Sidney 20 vs Minden 0Ogallala 18 vs Broken Bow 7Hemingford 58 @ Hyannis 8Kimball 50 @ Bayard 0Potter-Dix 66 @ Sterling 32Brady 85 vs Morrill 8Minatare 43 @ Banner County 24Leyton 52 vs Sioux County 12Northern Valley, KS at Crawford - 11:00 Saturday

🏈 Week 2 - Nebraska High School Football Scoreboard

Area High School Sports Scores from 9-4

Chadron State Coach Jay Long breaks down the opener at UNC, highlights key plays and performers, announces the first Hammer Award winner and takes a peek ahead at the UNK showdown!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666116284028.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Chadron State Coach Jay Long breaks down the opener at UNC, highlights key plays and performers, announces the first Hammer Award winner and takes a peek ahead at the UNK showdown!<div><iframe title="Jay Long Show - 9/2/25" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=gkdge-19512a1-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🔊 PODCAST: Jay Long Show - 9/2/25

OMAHA, Neb. (Sept. 1, 2025) — The Nebraska State Patrol is reminding Husker fans that safety should be part of their gameday plan.

Colonel Bryan Waugh, of NSP, will announce the effort during a media event at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the NSP Troop A office, 4411 S. 108th St. in Omaha. The campaign will feature troopers from across the state, who will take part in events leading up to the delivery of the Huskers’ game ball to Memorial Stadium ahead of Saturday’s home opener against Akron.

The effort is designed to encourage safe travel to and from Lincoln on game days, with reminders for fans to drive sober, buckle up and stay alert on crowded roadways. 

This is also a good reminder that safety extends beyond the stadium and in Lincoln. Whether traveling to the game, gathering with friends or attending a large watch party, state patrol leaders say fans safety should be forefront. 

Nebraska enters Saturday's game following a 20-17 victory over Cincinnati in its season opener Aug. 28 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. 

The game ball handoff is expected to highlight both statewide teamwork among troopers and the importance of planning ahead so fans can enjoy the game safely.

The game ball will travel across all six NSP troop areas, starting in Omaha and finishing in Lincoln. Fans can follow the game ball’s trip around the state on NSP’s social media pages.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756819903027.jpeg" alt="Nebraska State Patrol to deliver game ball to Memorial Stadium as part of a safe driving campaign Sept. 2, 2025." />
 <figcaption>Nebraska State Patrol to deliver game ball to Memorial Stadium as part of a safe driving campaign Sept. 2, 2025.</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (Sept. 1, 2025) — The Nebraska State Patrol is reminding Husker fans that safety should be part of their gameday plan.Colonel Bryan Waugh, of NSP, will announce the effort during a media event at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the NSP Troop A office, 4411 S. 108th St. in Omaha. The campaign will feature troopers from across the state, who will take part in events leading up to the delivery of the Huskers’ game ball to Memorial Stadium ahead of Saturday’s home opener against Akron.The effort is designed to encourage safe travel to and from Lincoln on game days, with reminders for fans to drive sober, buckle up and stay alert on crowded roadways. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756835087345.jpeg" alt="Tuesday morning, Colonel Bryan Waugh kicked off a statewide campaign to promote safe travel for Husker home games." />
 <figcaption>Tuesday morning, Colonel Bryan Waugh kicked off a statewide campaign to promote safe travel for Husker home games.</figcaption>
 </figure>This is also a good reminder that safety extends beyond the stadium and in Lincoln. Whether traveling to the game, gathering with friends or attending a large watch party, state patrol leaders say fans safety should be forefront. Nebraska enters Saturday's game following a 20-17 victory over Cincinnati in its season opener Aug. 28 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756837058614.jpeg" alt="Governor Jim Pillen assists in Game Day football handoff Sept. 2, 2025." />
 <figcaption>Governor Jim Pillen assists in Game Day football handoff Sept. 2, 2025.</figcaption>
 </figure>The game ball handoff is expected to highlight both statewide teamwork among troopers and the importance of planning ahead so fans can enjoy the game safely.The game ball will travel across all six NSP troop areas, starting in Omaha and finishing in Lincoln. Fans can follow the game ball’s trip around the state on NSP’s social media pages.

Troopers to Hand Off Husker Game Ball in Campaign for Gameday Safety

Bridgeport 44, North Platte St. Patrick's 28

Bridgeport 44, North Platte St. Patrick's 28Garden County 79, Crawford 25Gothenburg 28, Ogallala 11Hitchcock County 54, Brady 6McCook 41, Beatrice 15Wallace 44, Arthur County 36Wauneta-Palisade 44, South Platte 28

Area Football Scores from 8-29

Story by UNK Athletic Communication

Kearney, Neb. – Redshirt sophomore quarterback Abram Scholting scored from three yards out with 1:07 left and the defense had two late stops to help Nebraska Kearney win at Wayne State, 28-21, Thursday night at Bob Cunningham Field.

This was the 85th all-time meeting between the Lopers and Wildcats but the first in 14 years. UNK now holds a 60-19-6 series lead with the two slated to open the 2026 season at Ron &amp; Carol Cope Stadium.

The Loper defense stuffed the Wildcats on four straight plays from the eight-yard line with just over six minutes remaining. However, Wayne recovered a fumble two plays later and got a generous spot at UNK six-yard line. The Blue Wall almost did it again as they recorded another three stops, but a facemask penalty gave the 'Cats a set of new downs and they tied things up at 21 with 3:47 remaining.&nbsp;

Scholting (Pierce), who started last year's 35-0 win at Southwest Minnesota, took over for banged up starter Daron Bryden (Enfield, Conn.) late in the third quarter. Scholting had already played in the first half, but it was his game to finish after a late hit, and subsequent ejection, put Bryden on the sidelines.

"I had to prepare like the starter; "DB" was the guy and doing a good job. Our team played great tonight, and I had to just come in and do my job. I can't make it anything more than it is," said Scholting.

Scholting started the game-winning drive with runs of four and nine yards and then senior back Isaiah Harris (Omaha) had a four-yard run. Scholting then ran down the left sidelines for 14 yards before Harris ran the other direction on the next play for a 41-yard gain. He finished with a career-high 165 yards and one score on 21 carries.

With Harris just stepping out of bounds on the three, UNK's next two runs didn't gain much but Wayne used two of its three timeouts. On third down, Scholting scored for the second time by powering in from the left side. He started the fourth with a four-yard run that made it 21-14."It's definitely something you dream about. The playing experience last year helped a lot but when I came in, I just had to breathe, relax, and tell myself it's just football. I've been playing since second grade," said Scholting. "I have a lot of friends that go to Wayne State so it's fun to beat them."

Wayne, however, didn't go down quietly as sophomore QB Bennett Dannenbring had completions of 15 and 31 yards. On the big gainer, sophomore receiver Alex Phelps made a leaping grab between two Lopers that moved the ball to the 30-yard line with 26 seconds left. But on the very next play, redshirt sophomore safety Saieed Hasan (Peoria, Ariz.) picked off Dannenbring in the middle of the field. In the first half, junior newcomer Qualyn McQueen (Miami) had an INT that led to a 42-yard scoring drive and 14-7 lead.

UNK out gained WSC by a 329-281 margin, was 3 for 3 in the red zone and 6 of 14 on third down. Next, the defense held the 'Cats to 56 yards rushing, recorded six tackles for loss (2.0 sacks) with senior corner Ife Current (Kennendale, Texas) having UNK's third and final pick.

"Well, its next man up; that's how you have to do it and that's why we recruit multiple guys. Abe came in and did an incredible job. Being a local kid this was a big game for him," said UNK head coach Ryan Held. "He stepped up and we made the plays when we needed to."

Bryden was 7 of 11 for 67 yards and threw a 13-yard scoring pass to junior receiver Jaden Jude (Athens, Ala.) in the third quarter. He also had a 16-yard scramble with his one INT coming on a "Hail Mary" play at the end of the first half. Next, Scholting was 3 for 4 for 51 yards and ran eight times for 39 yards. Jude, previously at FCS Tennessee-Chattanooga, hauled in seven balls for 98 yards.

"There were some boneheaded plays we made there, turned the ball over late, had some penalties, gave them some opportunities," said Held. "But that was a gutsy drive there at the end to make it happen and then our defense found a way to end it.

"Finally on offense, Harris had a 55-yards scoring run on the second play from scrimmage and a 26-yard scamper in the second. This is his fifth career 100-yard day. Defensively, McQueen (eight) and Illinois senior corner Jovan Marsh (seven) led in tackles with Kansas junior backers Dylan Jordan (Pittsburg, Kan.) and Parker Wise (Kearney) both at six and a half sack

."We knew 12 personnel could be a good group against them (on the last drive). We felt there was some advantages there with our tight ends, spread them out a little bit but still be able to run the ball," said Held. "Our ability to run the football over four quarters was the difference in the game. This was great for the State of Nebraska to have a contest like this."

In his first collegiate start for Wayne, Dannenbring was 19 of 33 for 225 yards and two TD's with junior tight end Dane Peterson having both scores on six grabs for 94 yards. Phelps then managed 51 yards on three catches with back Dawson Forgy having 31 yards on 10 totes. The defense was led by backer Jes Krcil (15 tackles, one forced fumble) and senior backer Alex Kowalczyk (10 tackles) and junior tackle Luke Lambert (eight tackles, three for loss).UNK hosts Chadron State next Saturday; the Eagles are at FCS-member Northern Colorado this Saturday.

Story by UNK Athletic CommunicationKearney, Neb. – Redshirt sophomore quarterback Abram Scholting scored from three yards out with 1:07 left and the defense had two late stops to help Nebraska Kearney win at Wayne State, 28-21, Thursday night at Bob Cunningham Field.This was the 85th all-time meeting between the Lopers and Wildcats but the first in 14 years. UNK now holds a 60-19-6 series lead with the two slated to open the 2026 season at Ron &amp; Carol Cope Stadium.The Loper defense stuffed the Wildcats on four straight plays from the eight-yard line with just over six minutes remaining. However, Wayne recovered a fumble two plays later and got a generous spot at UNK six-yard line. The Blue Wall almost did it again as they recorded another three stops, but a facemask penalty gave the 'Cats a set of new downs and they tied things up at 21 with 3:47 remaining.&nbsp;Scholting (Pierce), who started last year's 35-0 win at Southwest Minnesota, took over for banged up starter Daron Bryden (Enfield, Conn.) late in the third quarter. Scholting had already played in the first half, but it was his game to finish after a late hit, and subsequent ejection, put Bryden on the sidelines."I had to prepare like the starter; "DB" was the guy and doing a good job. Our team played great tonight, and I had to just come in and do my job. I can't make it anything more than it is," said Scholting.Scholting started the game-winning drive with runs of four and nine yards and then senior back Isaiah Harris (Omaha) had a four-yard run. Scholting then ran down the left sidelines for 14 yards before Harris ran the other direction on the next play for a 41-yard gain. He finished with a career-high 165 yards and one score on 21 carries.With Harris just stepping out of bounds on the three, UNK's next two runs didn't gain much but Wayne used two of its three timeouts. On third down, Scholting scored for the second time by powering in from the left side. He started the fourth with a four-yard run that made it 21-14."It's definitely something you dream about. The playing experience last year helped a lot but when I came in, I just had to breathe, relax, and tell myself it's just football. I've been playing since second grade," said Scholting. "I have a lot of friends that go to Wayne State so it's fun to beat them."Wayne, however, didn't go down quietly as sophomore QB Bennett Dannenbring had completions of 15 and 31 yards. On the big gainer, sophomore receiver Alex Phelps made a leaping grab between two Lopers that moved the ball to the 30-yard line with 26 seconds left. But on the very next play, redshirt sophomore safety Saieed Hasan (Peoria, Ariz.) picked off Dannenbring in the middle of the field. In the first half, junior newcomer Qualyn McQueen (Miami) had an INT that led to a 42-yard scoring drive and 14-7 lead.UNK out gained WSC by a 329-281 margin, was 3 for 3 in the red zone and 6 of 14 on third down. Next, the defense held the 'Cats to 56 yards rushing, recorded six tackles for loss (2.0 sacks) with senior corner Ife Current (Kennendale, Texas) having UNK's third and final pick."Well, its next man up; that's how you have to do it and that's why we recruit multiple guys. Abe came in and did an incredible job. Being a local kid this was a big game for him," said UNK head coach Ryan Held. "He stepped up and we made the plays when we needed to."Bryden was 7 of 11 for 67 yards and threw a 13-yard scoring pass to junior receiver Jaden Jude (Athens, Ala.) in the third quarter. He also had a 16-yard scramble with his one INT coming on a "Hail Mary" play at the end of the first half. Next, Scholting was 3 for 4 for 51 yards and ran eight times for 39 yards. Jude, previously at FCS Tennessee-Chattanooga, hauled in seven balls for 98 yards."There were some boneheaded plays we made there, turned the ball over late, had some penalties, gave them some opportunities," said Held. "But that was a gutsy drive there at the end to make it happen and then our defense found a way to end it."Finally on offense, Harris had a 55-yards scoring run on the second play from scrimmage and a 26-yard scamper in the second. This is his fifth career 100-yard day. Defensively, McQueen (eight) and Illinois senior corner Jovan Marsh (seven) led in tackles with Kansas junior backers Dylan Jordan (Pittsburg, Kan.) and Parker Wise (Kearney) both at six and a half sack."We knew 12 personnel could be a good group against them (on the last drive). We felt there was some advantages there with our tight ends, spread them out a little bit but still be able to run the ball," said Held. "Our ability to run the football over four quarters was the difference in the game. This was great for the State of Nebraska to have a contest like this."In his first collegiate start for Wayne, Dannenbring was 19 of 33 for 225 yards and two TD's with junior tight end Dane Peterson having both scores on six grabs for 94 yards. Phelps then managed 51 yards on three catches with back Dawson Forgy having 31 yards on 10 totes. The defense was led by backer Jes Krcil (15 tackles, one forced fumble) and senior backer Alex Kowalczyk (10 tackles) and junior tackle Luke Lambert (eight tackles, three for loss).UNK hosts Chadron State next Saturday; the Eagles are at FCS-member Northern Colorado this Saturday.

Last minute TD & INT lifts Lopers at Wayne

<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/football/roster/player/malcolm-hartzog">Malcolm Hartzog Jr.</a>&nbsp;intercepted a Brendan Sorsby pass in the end zone with 39 seconds remaining to seal Nebraska's 20-17 season-opening victory over Cincinnati Thursday night at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.

Hartzog's interception was one of two big takeaways for the Blackshirt defense, which recovered a fumble to set up a 24-yard Husker touchdown drive in the closing minute of the first half. Nebraska trailed 3-0 after one quarter but took a 13-3 lead into the locker room. Cincinnati managed two second-half touchdowns, but a three-yard touchdown pass from&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/football/roster/player/dylan-raiola">Dylan Raiola</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/football/roster/player/dane-key">Dane Key</a>&nbsp;on a fourth-down play with 10:36 remaining provided the winning margin for the Big Red.

Raiola was efficient, completing 33-of-42 passes for 243 yards and two touchdowns. Nebraska had 243 passing yards while limiting the Bearcats to just 69 yards through the air on 25 attempts. Cincinnati out-rushed Nebraska in the game, but&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/football/roster/player/emmett-johnson">Emmett Johnson</a>&nbsp;led all players with 108 yards to post his second career 100-yard rushing game.

Defensively, DJ Singleton led Nebraska with eight tackles and five Huskers had a pass breakup. Hartzog had the game's lone interception, while&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/football/roster/player/vincent-shavers-jr">Vincent Shavers Jr.</a>&nbsp;forced a fumble that was recovered by&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/football/roster/player/williams-nwaneri">Williams Nwaneri</a>, as Nebraska had two takeaways in the game and did not commit a turnover itself.

Nebraska, which defeated a Power Four opponent in a season opener for the first time since 2003, improved to 1-0 while Cincinnati fell to 0-1.

The Huskers host their first home game of the season on Saturday, Sept. 6 against Akron at 6:30 p.m.

Story by NU Athletic Communication<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/football/roster/player/malcolm-hartzog">Malcolm Hartzog Jr.</a>&nbsp;intercepted a Brendan Sorsby pass in the end zone with 39 seconds remaining to seal Nebraska's 20-17 season-opening victory over Cincinnati Thursday night at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.Hartzog's interception was one of two big takeaways for the Blackshirt defense, which recovered a fumble to set up a 24-yard Husker touchdown drive in the closing minute of the first half. Nebraska trailed 3-0 after one quarter but took a 13-3 lead into the locker room. Cincinnati managed two second-half touchdowns, but a three-yard touchdown pass from&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/football/roster/player/dylan-raiola">Dylan Raiola</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/football/roster/player/dane-key">Dane Key</a>&nbsp;on a fourth-down play with 10:36 remaining provided the winning margin for the Big Red.Raiola was efficient, completing 33-of-42 passes for 243 yards and two touchdowns. Nebraska had 243 passing yards while limiting the Bearcats to just 69 yards through the air on 25 attempts. Cincinnati out-rushed Nebraska in the game, but&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/football/roster/player/emmett-johnson">Emmett Johnson</a>&nbsp;led all players with 108 yards to post his second career 100-yard rushing game.Defensively, DJ Singleton led Nebraska with eight tackles and five Huskers had a pass breakup. Hartzog had the game's lone interception, while&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/football/roster/player/vincent-shavers-jr">Vincent Shavers Jr.</a>&nbsp;forced a fumble that was recovered by&nbsp;<a href="https://huskers.com/sports/football/roster/player/williams-nwaneri">Williams Nwaneri</a>, as Nebraska had two takeaways in the game and did not commit a turnover itself.Nebraska, which defeated a Power Four opponent in a season opener for the first time since 2003, improved to 1-0 while Cincinnati fell to 0-1.The Huskers host their first home game of the season on Saturday, Sept. 6 against Akron at 6:30 p.m.

Huskers open season with 20-17 victory

Story by NU Athletic Communications

With three minutes left in the match, graduate student Reagan Raabe notched the game-winning goal for the Nebraska soccer team in its 1-0 victory over Weber State on Thursday night.

Raabe scored on a cross by Ava Makovicka in the lower half of the goal. Her goal was one of her five shots in the game, including two on goal.&nbsp;

Makovicka and Mila Brach each recorded three shots and Jo Sees had two. As a team, NU held the advantage in shots (19-4), shots on goal (5-2) and corner kicks (9-0). Cece Villa (1-0-2) played the whole game in goal, posted two saves, and claimed the win.&nbsp;

With the victory, the Big Red moved to 2-0-2 on the season, while Weber State fell to 3-2-0.&nbsp;

Neither team scored in the first half, but NU put on the pressure, notching 11 shots. Raabe logged the Huskers’ only shot on goal in the period, which was saved by the Wildcat goalkeeper. The Husker defense did not allow any shots by Weber State in the first half.&nbsp;

NU will travel to Omaha, Neb., for a matchup with the Mavericks on Sunday, Aug. 31. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. and the game will be streamed on the Summit League Network.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsWith three minutes left in the match, graduate student Reagan Raabe notched the game-winning goal for the Nebraska soccer team in its 1-0 victory over Weber State on Thursday night.Raabe scored on a cross by Ava Makovicka in the lower half of the goal. Her goal was one of her five shots in the game, including two on goal.&nbsp;Makovicka and Mila Brach each recorded three shots and Jo Sees had two. As a team, NU held the advantage in shots (19-4), shots on goal (5-2) and corner kicks (9-0). Cece Villa (1-0-2) played the whole game in goal, posted two saves, and claimed the win.&nbsp;With the victory, the Big Red moved to 2-0-2 on the season, while Weber State fell to 3-2-0.&nbsp;Neither team scored in the first half, but NU put on the pressure, notching 11 shots. Raabe logged the Huskers’ only shot on goal in the period, which was saved by the Wildcat goalkeeper. The Husker defense did not allow any shots by Weber State in the first half.&nbsp;NU will travel to Omaha, Neb., for a matchup with the Mavericks on Sunday, Aug. 31. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. and the game will be streamed on the Summit League Network.

Raabe nets game winner in 1-0 victory

Area High School Sports scores from 8-28

By: Con Marshall CSC Sports Information

Two football teams that are hoping to be much more successful this fall will open their seasons Saturday afternoon at 1 o’clock in Greeley, where the Chadron State Eagles will meet the Northern Colorado Bears in a non-conference contest.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Eagles played many of their games close last season, losing five times by a touchdown or less, while finishing with a 3-8 record.&nbsp; The Bears went 1-11, defeating only Weber State 21-17.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Naturally, both teams and their coaches want to win much more often this autumn.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Not much is known about the Bears.&nbsp; A Google search merely says the 2025 outlook is uncertain but shows potential with the addition of a new placekicker and punter. It adds that the team’s performance will depend on new talent and the leadership under Head Coach Ed Lamb.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; No direct comments from Lamb, who is beginning his third season at Northern Colorado, could be found.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Before coming to Greeley, Lamb had been the assistant head coach and special teams coordinator at Brigham Young for seven seasons. Prior to that he was the head coach at Southern Utah for eight seasons, inheriting a team that had suffered 18 straight losses, but he led the Thunderbirds to two conference championships before going to BYU.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chadron State Coach Jay Long, who is in his 25th&nbsp;year as a college coach and his 14th as the Eagles’ head mentor, has been vocal about his team’s chances this fall.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;He has high expectations for the Eagles. He points out that the defense, which returns eight mainstays and nearly all of the alternates from a year ago when it ranked second in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference in total defense and third in scoring defense.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Long also believes the offensive line, which has four new starters, is much improved and is elated that senior quarterback DJ Ralph, who was superb last fall when he was healthy, has fully recovered from shoulder surgery and has performed extra well during the preseason.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; The Eagles also possess one of the conference’s top receivers in Tommy Thomas, who has caught 91 passes for 1,327 yards and 14 touchdowns in the past two seasons, despite missing three games and most of a fourth last fall.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; And, the Eagles didn’t need to replace their kickers.&nbsp; Punter Brodie Eisenbraun and placekicker Wilson Yee are seniors who rank among CSC’s all-time bests when it comes to booting the ball.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; While the Eagles have an array of assets and Northern Colorado’s program has struggled the past 20 years when it has won only 50 games and lost more than 165. But the Bears are a Division I team that plays in the Football Championship Subdivision.&nbsp; They are members of the Big Sky Conference made up of teams such as Eastern Washington, Idaho, Idaho State, Montana and Montana State and Northern Arizona.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Those schools, including UNC, have more scholarships than DII programs like Chadron State. That usually means they have more size and speed.&nbsp; Dating back to 1993, the Eagles have tangled with nine such teams and won just twice.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The first win was in 2006 when Chadron State upset Montana State 35-14 the next game after the Bobcats had shocked the University of Colorado in the season-opener.&nbsp; The second was in 2007, when the Eagles went to Greeley and overwhelmed Northern Colorado 31-0.&nbsp; (See additional story.)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since then, the Eagles lost to Montana State 33-6 in 2012 and visited St. George, Utah, in 2022, were tied with Utah Tech 7-7 at halftime, but lost 56-10 after the Trailblazers intercepted four passes in the second half and returned two of them for touchdowns.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Chadron State coaches say they don’t know much about this year’s Northern Colorado team.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “It’s usually this way going into the season-opener,” CSC Defensive Coordinator Clint Sasse explained.&nbsp; “We’re preparing for everything. It helps that our offense is a pretty versatile, so we’ve seen different formations and plays in our practices, but it’s always difficult to get ready for a team we don’t usually play and it’s the first game on the schedule.”

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The teams traded two-deep depth charts on Tuesday.&nbsp; Something that stands out about the Bears is that all five starters on the offensive line are at least 6-foot-3 and weigh at least 300 pounds.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Both tight ends are also monsters.&nbsp; Fisher Clements is 6-7, 265 and Charlie Garrrison is 6-5, 260, and caught 15 passes for 196 yards last season. The major pass receiving threat, however, is Brayden Munroe, a 6-2, 200-pound junior, who led the Bears with 37 catches for 447 yards and three TDs last year.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The starting quarterback is listed as Peter Costelli, who is 6-3, 220. He played in five games a year ago, completing 39 of 72 passes for 591 yards and four touchdowns.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The probable starter at tailback is Mathias Price, a 6-2, 215-pound sophomore who carried just seven times for 24 yards last season. Aliou-Rocco Traore, 6-0, 196, is No. 2 on the tailback list and was a defensive back last year, when he made 54 tackles.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Last fall’s leading tackler was Cam Chapa, 6-1, 193, a freshman when he participated in 83 tackles, 45 of them solos, and had four of the team’s six interceptions. He was named to the FCS Football Central Freshman All-American team and was placed on this year’s Big Sky Preseason All-Conference Team.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The returning defenders also include Keenan Gutherie, 6-2, 240, who was third on the 2024 tackle chart with 73 stops.&nbsp; Strong safety Darrell Bryant II, 5-11, 200, was sixth with 52.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; During the 2024 season, the Bears were outscored 37.8 to 11.3 points per game and outgained 472 to 285 yards per game.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chadron State’s probable starters are

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Offense

WR—Tommy Thomas, 6-2, 190, Sr., Rollin George III, 6-1, 185, Jr., and Garet Schlabs, 6-0, 180, So.

OT—Tristan Randall, 6-4, 285. R-Fr., and Corben Holler, 6-5, 300, R-Fr.

OG—Levi Banuelos, 6-4, 290, Sr., and Jal Chan, 6-3, 320, Sr.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Defense

DL—Griffin Clubb, 6-3, 270, So., Tanner True, 6-3, 300, Sr., and Andrew Calderon, 6-4, 270, Jr.

LB—Logan O’Brien, 6-4, 220, Sr., Reed Henkel, 6-1, 225, Jr., and William Stemler, 6-2, 240, Jr.

CB—Jadon Bowen, 5-11, 175, Sr., and AJ Scurlock, 6-0, 195, Jr.

S—Dax Yeradi, 6-0, 195, Sr., Sutton Pohlman, 6-1, 215, Sr., and Tucker Peterson, 6-1, 200, Jr.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690822098674.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By: Con Marshall CSC Sports InformationTwo football teams that are hoping to be much more successful this fall will open their seasons Saturday afternoon at 1 o’clock in Greeley, where the Chadron State Eagles will meet the Northern Colorado Bears in a non-conference contest.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Eagles played many of their games close last season, losing five times by a touchdown or less, while finishing with a 3-8 record.&nbsp; The Bears went 1-11, defeating only Weber State 21-17.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Naturally, both teams and their coaches want to win much more often this autumn.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Not much is known about the Bears.&nbsp; A Google search merely says the 2025 outlook is uncertain but shows potential with the addition of a new placekicker and punter. It adds that the team’s performance will depend on new talent and the leadership under Head Coach Ed Lamb.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; No direct comments from Lamb, who is beginning his third season at Northern Colorado, could be found.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Before coming to Greeley, Lamb had been the assistant head coach and special teams coordinator at Brigham Young for seven seasons. Prior to that he was the head coach at Southern Utah for eight seasons, inheriting a team that had suffered 18 straight losses, but he led the Thunderbirds to two conference championships before going to BYU.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chadron State Coach Jay Long, who is in his 25th&nbsp;year as a college coach and his 14th as the Eagles’ head mentor, has been vocal about his team’s chances this fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;He has high expectations for the Eagles. He points out that the defense, which returns eight mainstays and nearly all of the alternates from a year ago when it ranked second in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference in total defense and third in scoring defense.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Long also believes the offensive line, which has four new starters, is much improved and is elated that senior quarterback DJ Ralph, who was superb last fall when he was healthy, has fully recovered from shoulder surgery and has performed extra well during the preseason.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; The Eagles also possess one of the conference’s top receivers in Tommy Thomas, who has caught 91 passes for 1,327 yards and 14 touchdowns in the past two seasons, despite missing three games and most of a fourth last fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; And, the Eagles didn’t need to replace their kickers.&nbsp; Punter Brodie Eisenbraun and placekicker Wilson Yee are seniors who rank among CSC’s all-time bests when it comes to booting the ball.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; While the Eagles have an array of assets and Northern Colorado’s program has struggled the past 20 years when it has won only 50 games and lost more than 165. But the Bears are a Division I team that plays in the Football Championship Subdivision.&nbsp; They are members of the Big Sky Conference made up of teams such as Eastern Washington, Idaho, Idaho State, Montana and Montana State and Northern Arizona.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Those schools, including UNC, have more scholarships than DII programs like Chadron State. That usually means they have more size and speed.&nbsp; Dating back to 1993, the Eagles have tangled with nine such teams and won just twice.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The first win was in 2006 when Chadron State upset Montana State 35-14 the next game after the Bobcats had shocked the University of Colorado in the season-opener.&nbsp; The second was in 2007, when the Eagles went to Greeley and overwhelmed Northern Colorado 31-0.&nbsp; (See additional story.)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Since then, the Eagles lost to Montana State 33-6 in 2012 and visited St. George, Utah, in 2022, were tied with Utah Tech 7-7 at halftime, but lost 56-10 after the Trailblazers intercepted four passes in the second half and returned two of them for touchdowns.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Chadron State coaches say they don’t know much about this year’s Northern Colorado team.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; “It’s usually this way going into the season-opener,” CSC Defensive Coordinator Clint Sasse explained.&nbsp; “We’re preparing for everything. It helps that our offense is a pretty versatile, so we’ve seen different formations and plays in our practices, but it’s always difficult to get ready for a team we don’t usually play and it’s the first game on the schedule.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The teams traded two-deep depth charts on Tuesday.&nbsp; Something that stands out about the Bears is that all five starters on the offensive line are at least 6-foot-3 and weigh at least 300 pounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Both tight ends are also monsters.&nbsp; Fisher Clements is 6-7, 265 and Charlie Garrrison is 6-5, 260, and caught 15 passes for 196 yards last season. The major pass receiving threat, however, is Brayden Munroe, a 6-2, 200-pound junior, who led the Bears with 37 catches for 447 yards and three TDs last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The starting quarterback is listed as Peter Costelli, who is 6-3, 220. He played in five games a year ago, completing 39 of 72 passes for 591 yards and four touchdowns.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The probable starter at tailback is Mathias Price, a 6-2, 215-pound sophomore who carried just seven times for 24 yards last season. Aliou-Rocco Traore, 6-0, 196, is No. 2 on the tailback list and was a defensive back last year, when he made 54 tackles.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Last fall’s leading tackler was Cam Chapa, 6-1, 193, a freshman when he participated in 83 tackles, 45 of them solos, and had four of the team’s six interceptions. He was named to the FCS Football Central Freshman All-American team and was placed on this year’s Big Sky Preseason All-Conference Team.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The returning defenders also include Keenan Gutherie, 6-2, 240, who was third on the 2024 tackle chart with 73 stops.&nbsp; Strong safety Darrell Bryant II, 5-11, 200, was sixth with 52.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; During the 2024 season, the Bears were outscored 37.8 to 11.3 points per game and outgained 472 to 285 yards per game.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chadron State’s probable starters are&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;OffenseWR—Tommy Thomas, 6-2, 190, Sr., Rollin George III, 6-1, 185, Jr., and Garet Schlabs, 6-0, 180, So.TE—Preston Pearson, 6-2, 225, Sr.OT—Tristan Randall, 6-4, 285. R-Fr., and Corben Holler, 6-5, 300, R-Fr.OG—Levi Banuelos, 6-4, 290, Sr., and Jal Chan, 6-3, 320, Sr.C—Dominic Castanon, 6-0, 280, Jr.QB—DJ Ralph, 6-3, 205, Sr.RB—Daytuawn Pearson, 5-7, 180, Jr.PK—Wilson Yee, 6-0, 190, Sr.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DefenseDL—Griffin Clubb, 6-3, 270, So., Tanner True, 6-3, 300, Sr., and Andrew Calderon, 6-4, 270, Jr.LB—Logan O’Brien, 6-4, 220, Sr., Reed Henkel, 6-1, 225, Jr., and William Stemler, 6-2, 240, Jr.CB—Jadon Bowen, 5-11, 175, Sr., and AJ Scurlock, 6-0, 195, Jr.S—Dax Yeradi, 6-0, 195, Sr., Sutton Pohlman, 6-1, 215, Sr., and Tucker Peterson, 6-1, 200, Jr.

Chadron State kicking off season Saturday at Northern Colorado

The Nebraska soccer team is set for matches against Weber State and at Omaha this week. NU will face the Wildcats on Thursday, Aug. 28 at 7:05 p.m. (CT) at Barbara Hibner Stadium. The Huskers’ contest at Omaha will kick off at 7:30 p.m. (CT) on Sunday, Aug. 31 at Caniglia Field. Thursday’s game will be streamed on B1G+ and Sunday’s is available on the Summit League Network.

The Huskers faced their first road test of the season in Oklahoma State, which was ranked No. 22 in the United Soccer Coaches Association preseason poll. The Big Red drew with the Cowgirls, 1-1. Freshman Carson Bohonek netted her first career goal, assisted by Kayma Carpenter. Cece Villa played all 90 minutes in goal and logged two saves.

NU will take on Oregon State at Barbara Hibner Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 4. The game is set to start at 7:05 p.m. and will be streamed on B1G+.&nbsp;Quick Notes

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska soccer team is set for matches against Weber State and at Omaha this week. NU will face the Wildcats on Thursday, Aug. 28 at 7:05 p.m. (CT) at Barbara Hibner Stadium. The Huskers’ contest at Omaha will kick off at 7:30 p.m. (CT) on Sunday, Aug. 31 at Caniglia Field. Thursday’s game will be streamed on B1G+ and Sunday’s is available on the Summit League Network.Last Time OutThe Huskers faced their first road test of the season in Oklahoma State, which was ranked No. 22 in the United Soccer Coaches Association preseason poll. The Big Red drew with the Cowgirls, 1-1. Freshman Carson Bohonek netted her first career goal, assisted by Kayma Carpenter. Cece Villa played all 90 minutes in goal and logged two saves.Next UpNU will take on Oregon State at Barbara Hibner Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 4. The game is set to start at 7:05 p.m. and will be streamed on B1G+.&nbsp;Quick Notes<ul>
 <li>Six returning Huskers have already notched new career highs in at least one category – Cece Villa (consecutive scoreless minutes), Ava Makovicka (points, goals), Reagan Raabe (assists), Maddy Osborn (saves), Ella Rudney (points, goals) and Kayma Carpenter (points, goals, assists).&nbsp;</li><li>The Huskers’ season-opening win against Southern Indiana was their largest season-opening victory since 1996.&nbsp;</li><li>NU has 11 regular-season home games scheduled for its 11th season at Hibner Stadium in 2025, which includes five non-conference matches and six Big Ten contests. Additionally, the Big Red hosted one exhibition.</li><li>Nebraska grabbed victories over Drake, Iowa State and Wyoming during the 2024 spring season. The Huskers drew a tie in both of their exhibition matches -- 0-0 at South Dakota State and 1-1 against Colorado State.&nbsp;</li><li>The Huskers’ Big Ten Preseason Players to Watch included Reagan Raabe, Lauryn Anglim and Sadie Waite. Nebraska was tabbed No. 12 in the preseason poll.&nbsp;</li><li>NU returned 10 letterwinners from last season, along with sixth-year Raabe. She was injured in both 2023 and 2024, but was a third-team All-Big Ten honoree in 2021 and 2022. Raabe scored the Huskers’ lone goal of their exhibition matches, her first net since Sept. 11, 2022.&nbsp;</li><li>The Huskers welcomed 15 newcomers in 2025, including 13 freshmen and two transfers. Alyse Then previously competed at Daytona State and SUNY, while Jo Sees comes to the Big Red from Kansas State.&nbsp;</li><li>During the 2024 season, the Huskers averaged 1,437 fans per game at Hibner Stadium, second most in Husker history and 11th in the nation. NU added a total attendance of 12,933, which ranked 18th nationally.</li><li>Head Coach John Walker enters his 32nd season, alongside assistant coaches Savanah Anderson-Baer (third season), Ian Bridge (10th season) and Dan Ball (first season). Walker has a 372-203-63 record in his career and has coached all 31 seasons in Nebraska soccer history.</li>
 </ul>Scouting the Weber State Wildcats<ul>
 <li>Weber State is 3-1-0 so far this season. The Wildcats have grabbed victories over Oregon State, CSU Bakersfield and North Dakota State but fell to Oregon.</li><li>Grace Kirby and Brynlee Meyerhoffer have each notched two goals for Weber State. Kirby has also added an assist.</li><li>The Wildcats finished the 2024 season with a 2-13-5 mark and a 1-6-1 record in conference play.</li><li>Head coach Kyle Christensen is in his first year with Weber State and has a career record of 3-1-0 both with the Wildcats and in his career.&nbsp;</li><li>The Huskers hold a 1-0-0 advantage in the series with Weber State. The only matchup in history was played in 2022 and NU came out with the 3-1 victory.</li>
 </ul>Scouting the Omaha Mavericks<ul>
 <li>Omaha is 2-0-2 in 2025 with wins over SIUE and Green Bay and ties against Northern Colorado and Lindenwood.</li><li>Kendall Dobberstein, Payten Ivins and Lauren Schmidt have each totaled four points this season for the Mavericks.</li><li>Omaha was 10-3-5 last season with a 4-1-3 mark in Summit League play. The Mavericks lost to Oral Roberts in the quarterfinals of the Summit League Tournament.</li><li>Head coach Tim Walters owns a 62-62-32 record in his career and with the Mavericks. He is in his ninth season at Omaha.</li><li>The Mavericks won the only matchup in series history with a narrow 1-0 victory in 2021.</li>
 </ul>

Huskers continue season against Weber State, at Omaha

<h2>Softball</h2>Cozad 3 @ North Platte 7Hershey 0 @ Gering 16Hershey 1 @ Gering 13

Area High School Sports scores from 8-26

Chadron State Football Head Coach Jay Long and Voice of the Eagles Dave Collins recap the team's efforts in fall camp, quarterback depth, emerging players, new coaches and take a glance at this weekend's opener against Northern Colorado.

<div><iframe title="Jay Long Show - Week 1 - 8/26/25" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=8yvww-1946746-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1b1b1b&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>Chadron State Football Head Coach Jay Long and Voice of the Eagles Dave Collins recap the team's efforts in fall camp, quarterback depth, emerging players, new coaches and take a glance at this weekend's opener against Northern Colorado.<figure>
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🔊 PODCAST: Jay Long Show - Week 1 - 8/26/25

By: Paxton Ritchie CSC Sports Information Director

CHADRON, Neb. – With a season-opening home classic just two weeks away, Chadron State volleyball has bolstered their roster with seven newcomers (three transfers and four freshmen) ahead of the upcoming 2025 season.

"We are really excited about how our 2025 class came together," head coach Jennifer Stadler said. "Every single one of them fits in seamlessly into our culture, will add depth to our roster, brings competitive grit, are at a high level academically and are all incredible humans that we can't wait to integrate into our program."

All three of the transfers are 5-foot-11 hitters who are expected to help the Eagles in the front row after two starters up front graduated this past season.

Senior Shelbi Hazlitt, a native of McCook whose parents and an aunt were athletes at Chadron State, joins the Eagles after previous stops at Nebraska-Kearney and Coe College (Division III), gaining NCAA tournament experience at both schools. Hazlitt joined the Eagles in January and has participated in spring workouts. Coach Stadler said she will add depth and leadership in the middle and has a strong work ethic.

"My parents and aunt have always talked so highly of this place," Hazlitt said. "In the short time I've been here, Chadron has made me feel accepted and cared for." 

Gibson Beckler of Conway, Missouri, had 487 kills and 502 digs while playing six rotations at junior college Missouri State-West Plains over the past two years. Her team had a 37-6 record last fall and finished in the top five at the junior college national tournament in 2024. She received all-conference and all-region honors both years she played at West Plains and will bring high volleyball IQ, according to Stadler.  

"I come from a school where community is important, and Chadron gives me the same feeling," Beckler said. "The Eagle fans do a lot for the community, which makes me want to be a part of that relationship."

The third transfer is Chloe Grady, a native of Hawaii, who was on the roster at Western Nebraska Community College at Scottsbluff the past two years, and racked up 257 kills and 179 blocks. 

"Chloe has experience in more than one position, so her versatility will be a big advantage for us," Stadler said. "I am excited to see what she can do as she continues to grow and refine her game."

Of the 2025 class's four freshman, three are from the state of Nebraska. Two of them — Jillian Donovan of Lincoln Lutheran and Brandi Helzer of Oakland-Craig — are also 5-foot-11 and were both two-time Class C-2 all-state selections while playing on outstanding teams.    

Donovan was credited with more than 2,000 assists as the setter on three straight Class C-2 state tournament championship teams. The Warriors had a 102-5 win-loss record during that stretch. She holds the school records for most single match and single season assists and earned a Max Preps Volleyball Player of the Week award.

"Jillian has experienced a lot of success at the setter position and has a track record of running an effective and efficient offense," Stadler said. "She is fantastic in the classroom and an incredible person and teammate."

Helzer's Oakland-Craig team qualified for the state tournament each of the last four years. As a senior last fall, she set the C-2 state record for most kills in a season with 577. She finished her career with 1,732 kills, setting a school record, and had a .294 hitting percentage last season.   

"I've wanted to attend Chadron State since my freshman year," Helzer said. "The culture of the school and the team stood out."

The other freshman recruit from Nebraska is 5-foot-8 Shelby Harding, who was a first-team all-city and a second-team Class A all-state selection while helping Lincoln Southwest qualify for the state tournament. While listed as an outside hitter, Coach Sadler said Harding is capable of playing the entire rotation.  

"Shelby caught our eye with her ability to play six rotations, consistent serve receive and gritty play," Stadler said. "Her competitive spirit sets her apart and will be a great addition to the roster."

Another freshman joining the Eagles is Sydney Strode, a 5-foot-10 middle hitter from Lutheran High School at Parker, Colorado, that was a state tournament runner-up in Class 4A a year ago.  She was all-state honorable mention last season and impressed the CSC coaching staff with her lateral quickness.

"Sydney is a smart and athletic middle attacker," Stadler said. "She has a lot of skills that we are excited about and are looking forward to watching her development."

The Eagle will play four games in the Chicoine Center between September 4-6, part of a classic that will be 12 games overall. After another classic the following week in Mankato, Minnesota, the Eagles open RMAC play on the road against Colorado Christian and CSU Pueblo on September 19-20.

<figure>
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 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By: Paxton Ritchie CSC Sports Information DirectorCHADRON, Neb. – With a season-opening home classic just two weeks away, Chadron State volleyball has bolstered their roster with seven newcomers (three transfers and four freshmen) ahead of the upcoming 2025 season."We are really excited about how our 2025 class came together," head coach Jennifer Stadler said. "Every single one of them fits in seamlessly into our culture, will add depth to our roster, brings competitive grit, are at a high level academically and are all incredible humans that we can't wait to integrate into our program."All three of the transfers are 5-foot-11 hitters who are expected to help the Eagles in the front row after two starters up front graduated this past season.Senior Shelbi Hazlitt, a native of McCook whose parents and an aunt were athletes at Chadron State, joins the Eagles after previous stops at Nebraska-Kearney and Coe College (Division III), gaining NCAA tournament experience at both schools. Hazlitt joined the Eagles in January and has participated in spring workouts. Coach Stadler said she will add depth and leadership in the middle and has a strong work ethic."My parents and aunt have always talked so highly of this place," Hazlitt said. "In the short time I've been here, Chadron has made me feel accepted and cared for." Gibson Beckler of Conway, Missouri, had 487 kills and 502 digs while playing six rotations at junior college Missouri State-West Plains over the past two years. Her team had a 37-6 record last fall and finished in the top five at the junior college national tournament in 2024. She received all-conference and all-region honors both years she played at West Plains and will bring high volleyball IQ, according to Stadler. "I come from a school where community is important, and Chadron gives me the same feeling," Beckler said. "The Eagle fans do a lot for the community, which makes me want to be a part of that relationship."The third transfer is Chloe Grady, a native of Hawaii, who was on the roster at Western Nebraska Community College at Scottsbluff the past two years, and racked up 257 kills and 179 blocks. "Chloe has experience in more than one position, so her versatility will be a big advantage for us," Stadler said. "I am excited to see what she can do as she continues to grow and refine her game."Of the 2025 class's four freshman, three are from the state of Nebraska. Two of them — Jillian Donovan of Lincoln Lutheran and Brandi Helzer of Oakland-Craig — are also 5-foot-11 and were both two-time Class C-2 all-state selections while playing on outstanding teams. Donovan was credited with more than 2,000 assists as the setter on three straight Class C-2 state tournament championship teams. The Warriors had a 102-5 win-loss record during that stretch. She holds the school records for most single match and single season assists and earned a Max Preps Volleyball Player of the Week award."Jillian has experienced a lot of success at the setter position and has a track record of running an effective and efficient offense," Stadler said. "She is fantastic in the classroom and an incredible person and teammate."Helzer's Oakland-Craig team qualified for the state tournament each of the last four years. As a senior last fall, she set the C-2 state record for most kills in a season with 577. She finished her career with 1,732 kills, setting a school record, and had a .294 hitting percentage last season. "I've wanted to attend Chadron State since my freshman year," Helzer said. "The culture of the school and the team stood out."The other freshman recruit from Nebraska is 5-foot-8 Shelby Harding, who was a first-team all-city and a second-team Class A all-state selection while helping Lincoln Southwest qualify for the state tournament. While listed as an outside hitter, Coach Sadler said Harding is capable of playing the entire rotation. "Shelby caught our eye with her ability to play six rotations, consistent serve receive and gritty play," Stadler said. "Her competitive spirit sets her apart and will be a great addition to the roster."Another freshman joining the Eagles is Sydney Strode, a 5-foot-10 middle hitter from Lutheran High School at Parker, Colorado, that was a state tournament runner-up in Class 4A a year ago. She was all-state honorable mention last season and impressed the CSC coaching staff with her lateral quickness."Sydney is a smart and athletic middle attacker," Stadler said. "She has a lot of skills that we are excited about and are looking forward to watching her development."The Eagle will play four games in the Chicoine Center between September 4-6, part of a classic that will be 12 games overall. After another classic the following week in Mankato, Minnesota, the Eagles open RMAC play on the road against Colorado Christian and CSU Pueblo on September 19-20.

Chadron State volleyball will have fresh look this season

North Platte 0 - Kearney 3 (25-13, 25-14, 25-18)

<h2>Softball</h2>Adams Central 0 @ North Platte 9Cozad 10 vs Hershey 1Gothenburg 1 vs McCook 14North Platte 4 vs Gering 8<h2>Volleyball</h2>North Platte 0 - Kearney 3 (25-13, 25-14, 25-18)<h2>Golf</h2>North Platte 202 , Ogallala 252

Area High School scores from 8-21

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Chadron State volleyball is projected for a 13th-place finish in the RMAC, matching its finish in last season's standings, according to the RMAC Volleyball Preseason Coaches Poll released Tuesday by the league office alongside the Preseason All-RMAC team.&nbsp;

The preseason order is voted on by the league's 15 head coaches, who rank the other 14 programs without voting for their own team. The Preseason All-RMAC team is comprised of the top 14 returning players based on voting totals from last season's all-conference awards. 

MSU Denver are the runaway favorites to win the league this season, receiving 13 of a possible 14 first-place votes and finishing with 194 points. The Roadrunners have won the past four regular-season RMAC championships and are currently on a streak of 24 consecutive seasons making the NCAA Tournament. Chadron State was one of only four RMAC teams to take a set off MSU Denver during conference play last season, when the Roadrunners won in four sets in the Chicoine Center last September 21. 

Colorado Mesa is second in the poll, earning the final two first-place votes, 11 second-place votes and one third-place vote to finish with 183 points. Colorado Christian, who advanced to the finals of the RMAC Tournament last season, comes in third in the preseason poll with 162 points. 

South Dakota Mines, last season's surprise with a third-place regular-season finish, are picked fourth in 2025 with 154 points. The rest of the top 10 features CSU Pueblo, Regis, Westminster, UCCS and Adams State and Colorado School of Mines in a tie for ninth. 

Spots 11-13 are incredibly close, with 11th-place Fort Lewis receiving 59 points in the poll, 12th-place Western Colorado receiving 57 and the 13th-place Eagles receiving 55. The poll is rounded out by New Mexico Highlands and Black Hills State. 

Led by seventh-year head coach Jennifer Stadler, Chadron State will need to replace both student-athletes that earned All-RMAC recognition last season (libero Alondra Hernandez and middle Aiyana Fujiyama) but still return a solid core of contributors. 

The Eagles return each of their top three kill leaders from a season ago in junior Kally Kirkwood (191 kills), senior Alejandra Briseno (181) and sophomore Mataya Ward (156). Former All-RMAC selection and senior Bella Adams will provide leadership and returns after posting 135 kills and 61 blocks in 2024. Junior Avery Lacy, who ranked second on the team behind league leader Hernandez in digs last season with 221, is poised to take over the libero role.

The Eagles will also feature talented newcomers including Shelbi Hazlitt, a transfer from Nebraska-Kearney and Coe College whose father, mother and aunt are all former CSC athletes. Chadron State will also welcome two juco transfers in outside hitter Gibson Beckler (Missouri State-West Plains) and middle hitter Chloe Grady (Western Nebraska CC), plus a freshman class of four that includes Lincoln, Nebraska athletes Jillian Donovan and Shelby Harding. 

Chadron State volleyball's 2025 season opens within the friendly confines of the Chicoine Center when CSC hosts the six-team Eagle Classic from September 4-6. RMAC play begins September 19-20, with the Eagles on the road at Colorado Christian and CSU Pueblo, before CSC's RMAC home opener on Friday, September 26 against Fort Lewis. The Eagles will face Western Colorado the following evening, Saturday, September 27, as part of a homecoming doubleheader with CSC football.

By: Paxton Ritchie CSC Sports Information DirectorCOLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Chadron State volleyball is projected for a 13th-place finish in the RMAC, matching its finish in last season's standings, according to the RMAC Volleyball Preseason Coaches Poll released Tuesday by the league office alongside the Preseason All-RMAC team.&nbsp;The preseason order is voted on by the league's 15 head coaches, who rank the other 14 programs without voting for their own team. The Preseason All-RMAC team is comprised of the top 14 returning players based on voting totals from last season's all-conference awards. MSU Denver are the runaway favorites to win the league this season, receiving 13 of a possible 14 first-place votes and finishing with 194 points. The Roadrunners have won the past four regular-season RMAC championships and are currently on a streak of 24 consecutive seasons making the NCAA Tournament. Chadron State was one of only four RMAC teams to take a set off MSU Denver during conference play last season, when the Roadrunners won in four sets in the Chicoine Center last September 21. Colorado Mesa is second in the poll, earning the final two first-place votes, 11 second-place votes and one third-place vote to finish with 183 points. Colorado Christian, who advanced to the finals of the RMAC Tournament last season, comes in third in the preseason poll with 162 points. South Dakota Mines, last season's surprise with a third-place regular-season finish, are picked fourth in 2025 with 154 points. The rest of the top 10 features CSU Pueblo, Regis, Westminster, UCCS and Adams State and Colorado School of Mines in a tie for ninth. Spots 11-13 are incredibly close, with 11th-place Fort Lewis receiving 59 points in the poll, 12th-place Western Colorado receiving 57 and the 13th-place Eagles receiving 55. The poll is rounded out by New Mexico Highlands and Black Hills State. Led by seventh-year head coach Jennifer Stadler, Chadron State will need to replace both student-athletes that earned All-RMAC recognition last season (libero Alondra Hernandez and middle Aiyana Fujiyama) but still return a solid core of contributors. The Eagles return each of their top three kill leaders from a season ago in junior Kally Kirkwood (191 kills), senior Alejandra Briseno (181) and sophomore Mataya Ward (156). Former All-RMAC selection and senior Bella Adams will provide leadership and returns after posting 135 kills and 61 blocks in 2024. Junior Avery Lacy, who ranked second on the team behind league leader Hernandez in digs last season with 221, is poised to take over the libero role.The Eagles will also feature talented newcomers including Shelbi Hazlitt, a transfer from Nebraska-Kearney and Coe College whose father, mother and aunt are all former CSC athletes. Chadron State will also welcome two juco transfers in outside hitter Gibson Beckler (Missouri State-West Plains) and middle hitter Chloe Grady (Western Nebraska CC), plus a freshman class of four that includes Lincoln, Nebraska athletes Jillian Donovan and Shelby Harding. Chadron State volleyball's 2025 season opens within the friendly confines of the Chicoine Center when CSC hosts the six-team Eagle Classic from September 4-6. RMAC play begins September 19-20, with the Eagles on the road at Colorado Christian and CSU Pueblo, before CSC's RMAC home opener on Friday, September 26 against Fort Lewis. The Eagles will face Western Colorado the following evening, Saturday, September 27, as part of a homecoming doubleheader with CSC football.

Chadron State volleyball picked 13th in RMAC preseason poll

The first conference tournament in school history and the return of the Big Red Invitational highlights the release of Nebraska’s 2025-26 bowling schedule released Tuesday (Aug. 19).

The 10-tournament regular-season schedule is highlighted by the Conference USA Championships in Harahan, La. From March 19-21. The 12-team field includes all four teams which qualified for the NCAA semifinals last season in Nebraska, Jacksonville State, Youngstown State and Wichita State. It will mark NU’s first conference tournament appearance since the varsity program began in 1998.

The Huskers, who return a trio of All-American from a team that finished third at the 2025 NCAA Championships, will be tested with a schedule that will prepare the Big Red for postseason play according to Head Coach Paul Klempa.

“This season’s schedule is a very competitive slate,” Klempa said. “We will be tested each time they compete, which is what we need to be ready for the postseason. There are several familiar stops, but a couple of new ones, most notably the Conference USA Championship in March. That will be one of the most competitive tournaments in the country with the number of top-10 teams in CUSA. It will serve as a chance for the team to win a championship in the most prestigious bowling conference in the country while also keeping us competitively sharp for the NCAA postseason that follows.”

Husker fans will have an opportunity to see the Huskers bowl in person, as Lincoln will host the Big Red Invitational at Hollywood Lanes from Feb. 20-22. Klempa believes the 2026 event could be one of the top tournaments in the country this season.

“The Big Red Invite that we will host in Lincoln will be one of the strongest events we have hosted,” Klempa said. “It will feature seven teams from the top 10 teams in the country (Nebraska, Jacksonville State, Youngstown State, Wichita State, Arkansas State, Vanderbilt and Sam Houston) and three others that were in the top 20. Husker fans will not want to miss this one in February.”

The fall portion of the schedule begins on Oct. 17, as the Huskers travel to Struthers, Ohio for the Motiv Penguin Classic, which is hosted by defending NCAA Champion Youngstown State. The Huskers will also make trips to Destination Orlando, the Bulldog Classic in Fort Worth, Texas and the Colonial Lanes Classic in Harahan, La. before taking a break in the schedule. The trip to the Colonial Lanes Classic provides the Huskers a chance to preview the site of the Conference USA Championship in March.

The spring portion begins with a flourish, as Nebraska takes three straight trips to close January. Trips to the Northeast Classic in New Castle, Del., the Prairie View Invitational in Arlington, Texas and the Saints Invite in Saint Louis are all expected to have strong fields. Following the Big Red Invitational, NU closes the regular season with the Stallings Invitational in Greensboro, N.C., before preparing for its first-ever CUSA Tournament from March 19-22.&nbsp; NCAA Regionals take place April 3-4 before the NCAA Championships the following weekend just outside Cleveland, Ohio.

The Huskers are led by reigning NTCA Bowler of the Year Jillian Martin, as well as returning NTCA All-Americans Kayla Starr (2025) and Brenna Hartzler (2024) along with returning starter Haley Swindle.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationThe first conference tournament in school history and the return of the Big Red Invitational highlights the release of Nebraska’s 2025-26 bowling schedule released Tuesday (Aug. 19).The 10-tournament regular-season schedule is highlighted by the Conference USA Championships in Harahan, La. From March 19-21. The 12-team field includes all four teams which qualified for the NCAA semifinals last season in Nebraska, Jacksonville State, Youngstown State and Wichita State. It will mark NU’s first conference tournament appearance since the varsity program began in 1998.The Huskers, who return a trio of All-American from a team that finished third at the 2025 NCAA Championships, will be tested with a schedule that will prepare the Big Red for postseason play according to Head Coach Paul Klempa.“This season’s schedule is a very competitive slate,” Klempa said. “We will be tested each time they compete, which is what we need to be ready for the postseason. There are several familiar stops, but a couple of new ones, most notably the Conference USA Championship in March. That will be one of the most competitive tournaments in the country with the number of top-10 teams in CUSA. It will serve as a chance for the team to win a championship in the most prestigious bowling conference in the country while also keeping us competitively sharp for the NCAA postseason that follows.”Husker fans will have an opportunity to see the Huskers bowl in person, as Lincoln will host the Big Red Invitational at Hollywood Lanes from Feb. 20-22. Klempa believes the 2026 event could be one of the top tournaments in the country this season.“The Big Red Invite that we will host in Lincoln will be one of the strongest events we have hosted,” Klempa said. “It will feature seven teams from the top 10 teams in the country (Nebraska, Jacksonville State, Youngstown State, Wichita State, Arkansas State, Vanderbilt and Sam Houston) and three others that were in the top 20. Husker fans will not want to miss this one in February.”The fall portion of the schedule begins on Oct. 17, as the Huskers travel to Struthers, Ohio for the Motiv Penguin Classic, which is hosted by defending NCAA Champion Youngstown State. The Huskers will also make trips to Destination Orlando, the Bulldog Classic in Fort Worth, Texas and the Colonial Lanes Classic in Harahan, La. before taking a break in the schedule. The trip to the Colonial Lanes Classic provides the Huskers a chance to preview the site of the Conference USA Championship in March.The spring portion begins with a flourish, as Nebraska takes three straight trips to close January. Trips to the Northeast Classic in New Castle, Del., the Prairie View Invitational in Arlington, Texas and the Saints Invite in Saint Louis are all expected to have strong fields. Following the Big Red Invitational, NU closes the regular season with the Stallings Invitational in Greensboro, N.C., before preparing for its first-ever CUSA Tournament from March 19-22.&nbsp; NCAA Regionals take place April 3-4 before the NCAA Championships the following weekend just outside Cleveland, Ohio.The Huskers are led by reigning NTCA Bowler of the Year Jillian Martin, as well as returning NTCA All-Americans Kayla Starr (2025) and Brenna Hartzler (2024) along with returning starter Haley Swindle.

Huskers announce 2025-26 Bowling Schedule

Nebraska women's gymnastics head coach Heather Brink announced the hiring of new assistant coach Montana Rall on Tuesday.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska women's gymnastics head coach Heather Brink announced the hiring of new assistant coach Montana Rall on Tuesday."We are thrilled to welcome Montana to the coaching staff," Brink said. "Over the last few years, I have watched her step into roles that have allowed her to evolve and grow her technical expertise throughout her developmental coaching career. She cares about her athletes and is dedicated to helping them achieve their goals. Her enthusiasm and passion for Nebraska Gymnastics will undoubtedly shine. I cannot wait to see the impact she will have on our team and family."&nbsp;Rall has spent the past three years as a choreographer and lead beam coach for Omaha Gymnastics Academy, contributing to more than 29 regional titles and 12 national qualifications. She she was also a head coach for Metro Stars Gymnastics (2019-2023), Girls Competitive Team program Co-Director and and head coach of Rowland Ballard Gymnastics (2017-2018), coach of Amplify Gymnastics (2016-2017) and coach for Nebraska School of Gymnastics (2009-2012).Rall competed for the University of Kentucky (2013-16). She was a staple in the beam and bars lineup for the Wildcats during her career. Rall was a two-time member of the SEC Academic Team in 2014 and 2015 and was a member of the SEC Community Service Team in 2015.&nbsp;Prior to her collegiate career, the Nebraska native attended Lincoln Southwest and trained at Nebraska School of Gymnastics under coaches Tim and Rachel Garrison and Tanya Gifford.&nbsp;Rall’s primary responsibilities will include the lead coach on floor, assisting on vault, time management planning and overseeing strength and conditioning.&nbsp;“To say I am excited is an understatement,” Rall said. “Nebraska is more than where I live—it’s my home, my community and the place that shaped me into the person I am today. I am passionate about Nebraska, its people and the sport of gymnastics. I am excited about where this program is going and grateful I get to be a part of creating a lasting legacy of top-tier gymnastics along with our signature “Good Life” culture. There’s truly no place like Nebraska. Let’s go!”Rall earned her bachelor's degree from Kentucky in Kinesiology and Exercise Science in 2016. She is married to her husband Jesse and has two sons, Ryker and Jagger, and a daughter, Winslow.