St. Joseph and Missouri Western State University will be the home for MSHSAA state football championship games over the next few years.

The MSHSAA Board of Directors this month voted to approve St. Joseph as the host city for the Missouri 8-man championship game in 2024. Spratt Stadium will then host the state title games for all classes from 2025-28.

Brett Esely, Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission, worked in conjunction with Western to make this a reality. He says St. Joseph is a great fit with its facilities, community engagement and participation.

"It's exciting," Esely told KFEQ Radio. "Any time we can bring an event of this magnitude to St. Joseph and Buchanan County, we need to look into it and make it possible. I also think we have a great reputation for hosting championship events, which is a big feather in the cap of our community."

The 11-man state title games will still be at Faurot Field in Columbia this fall.

St. Joseph first received the bid packet for hosting the 8-man title game last October. MSHSAA officials then had a visit to the MWSU campus in January.

From there, both parties expressed interest in having St. Joseph host all of the state football title games, beginning in 2025. The St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau, along with the University, submitted the bid for all the games on April 1 and officially got approval about two weeks after that.

Mizzou has hosted all of the state football championships since 2016. St. Joseph and Missouri Western previously hosted the 8-man championship from 1998-2007.

 Missouri Western’s football program already gets lots of publicity, as the facilities are used to host Kansas City Chiefs training camp every year since 2010.

Colin McQuillan is the special teams coach at Western. A Wathena, KS native and former coach at Union Star, McQuillan says bringing these games to Spratt will no doubt be an added bonus for the program.

"Recruiting, admissions and people being able to check out Missouri Western and see what's available and going on here," he said. "Football wise, it's going to be awesome in terms of recruiting, but getting more football fans in the stands is going to be awesome for the community."

McQuillan helps spearhead both 8-man and 11-man football camps at Spratt Stadium in the summer.

He acknowledges St. Joseph isn’t exactly the most central location for this, but he’s hopeful that teams will see why St. Joseph is such a great host, once the teams get to the campus.

"I know the St. Louis schools won't like the travel as much," McQuillan noted, "but once they get here, they're going to realize that the atmosphere is going to be awesome. The venue and everything that's around it is going to be very, very successful."

For nearly 30 years, state football championships in Missouri had either been held at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, or at Mizzou. Faurot Field has been the host since 2016.

Esely says nowadays, bigger cities have been less eager to host state high school championship events. He believes Spratt Stadium will be the perfect atmosphere for state football, because of the facility and also the region’s overall interest in the sport.

"You don't have to play (in Columbia or St. Louis) to create a great championship experience," Esely said. "Frankly, when I think of Spratt Stadium and 7,200 fans packed in there tight, with the bells and whistles that facility has...I've been a part of some really cool moments there and I look forward to a lot more cool moments moving forward."

The 10,000-seat stadium boasts a 2,500 square foot videoboard and a synthetic turf playing surface.

"The venue speaks for itself. It's the right size. It's got the bells and whistles, the logistics, the infrastructure. The other thing I think that's great to boast, especially to a high school student is, 'It's on a college campus, and ya know, the Chiefs train here in the summertime.'"

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693546578918.jpeg" alt="Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph will be the home of all state football championship games in Missouri from 2025-28. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph will be the home of all state football championship games in Missouri from 2025-28. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph and Missouri Western State University will be the home for MSHSAA state football championship games over the next few years.The MSHSAA Board of Directors this month voted to approve St. Joseph as the host city for the Missouri 8-man championship game in 2024. Spratt Stadium will then host the state title games for all classes from 2025-28.Brett Esely, Director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission, worked in conjunction with Western to make this a reality. He says St. Joseph is a great fit with its facilities, community engagement and participation."It's exciting," Esely told KFEQ Radio. "Any time we can bring an event of this magnitude to St. Joseph and Buchanan County, we need to look into it and make it possible. I also think we have a great reputation for hosting championship events, which is a big feather in the cap of our community."The 11-man state title games will still be at Faurot Field in Columbia this fall.St. Joseph first received the bid packet for hosting the 8-man title game last October. MSHSAA officials then had a visit to the MWSU campus in January.From there, both parties expressed interest in having St. Joseph host all of the state football title games, beginning in 2025. The St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau, along with the University, submitted the bid for all the games on April 1 and officially got approval about two weeks after that.Mizzou has hosted all of the state football championships since 2016. St. Joseph and Missouri Western previously hosted the 8-man championship from 1998-2007. Missouri Western’s football program already gets lots of publicity, as the facilities are used to host Kansas City Chiefs training camp every year since 2010.Colin McQuillan is the special teams coach at Western. A Wathena, KS native and former coach at Union Star, McQuillan says bringing these games to Spratt will no doubt be an added bonus for the program."Recruiting, admissions and people being able to check out Missouri Western and see what's available and going on here," he said. "Football wise, it's going to be awesome in terms of recruiting, but getting more football fans in the stands is going to be awesome for the community."McQuillan helps spearhead both 8-man and 11-man football camps at Spratt Stadium in the summer.He acknowledges St. Joseph isn’t exactly the most central location for this, but he’s hopeful that teams will see why St. Joseph is such a great host, once the teams get to the campus."I know the St. Louis schools won't like the travel as much," McQuillan noted, "but once they get here, they're going to realize that the atmosphere is going to be awesome. The venue and everything that's around it is going to be very, very successful."For nearly 30 years, state football championships in Missouri had either been held at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis, or at Mizzou. Faurot Field has been the host since 2016.Esely says nowadays, bigger cities have been less eager to host state high school championship events. He believes Spratt Stadium will be the perfect atmosphere for state football, because of the facility and also the region’s overall interest in the sport."You don't have to play (in Columbia or St. Louis) to create a great championship experience," Esely said. "Frankly, when I think of Spratt Stadium and 7,200 fans packed in there tight, with the bells and whistles that facility has...I've been a part of some really cool moments there and I look forward to a lot more cool moments moving forward."The 10,000-seat stadium boasts a 2,500 square foot videoboard and a synthetic turf playing surface."The venue speaks for itself. It's the right size. It's got the bells and whistles, the logistics, the infrastructure. The other thing I think that's great to boast, especially to a high school student is, 'It's on a college campus, and ya know, the Chiefs train here in the summertime.'"Interviews<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Brett-Esely---43024-e2j3fne/a-ab7l6fu" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Colin-McQuillan---MWSU-e2j3fph/a-ab7l6np" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631269551325.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692413228096.jpeg" alt="Spratt Stadium plays hosts to a couple of high school events already, including the St. Joseph city jamboree and the Missouri 8-man all-star game. Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Spratt Stadium plays hosts to a couple of high school events already, including the St. Joseph city jamboree and the Missouri 8-man all-star game. Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Spratt Stadium to host Missouri 8-man state title in 2024, all classes in 2025-28

MARYVILLE - Matt Keeley started from the ground up when he took over as the head men's basketball coach at Ottawa University in Arizona.

Literally. The program didn't exist until he started there in 2017.

Seven years, 113 wins, three national tournament berths and two conference titles later, Keeley takes over, arguably, the most structurally sound Division II men's program in the country.

Keeley was picked as the 21st coach in the history of Northwest men's basketball on April 13, and officially introduced Wednesday at the Lamkin Activity Center on the Maryville campus.

Being Ben McCollum's successor, Keeley says it's McCollum's predecessor, Steve Tappmeyer, who offered some words of wisdom in the early days on the job.

"(Steve) challenged me to just continue to embrace the greatness that this place is," Keeley said, "and to see it as something you're a part of in the story, and not something you're not trying to come and reinvent. And, I certainly took that to heart."

Keeley knows Northwest and the MIAA well enough, even before this job was on his radar. He was an assistant at Washburn from 2007-09 and then at MidAmerica Nazarene from 2009-17.

Northwest athletic director Andy Peterson was an assistant on McCollum's staff at Northwest from 2011-17. Peterson says it always 'stuck with him' that the Bearcats and Pioneers seemed to go after the same type of players on the recruiting trail during that time.

"(Matt) knows the value of the type of student-athletes we're after," Peterson said. "I can't tell you how many kids we recruited against each other on. It seemed, when it came down to the wire of where that kid was going to go, it was Northwest, Washburn and MidAmerica Nazarene. Northwest, UCM, MidAmerica Nazarene."

Keeley, a father of four, knows moving a family from the Phoenix metro to Maryville is no small thing. His oldest son, Cade, is a multi-sport athlete coming up through high school.

He was the toughest sell, but became more bought in the more he learned about the Bearcats' rich history.

"Like a coaches' kid, he's processing," Keeley said.

"He goes, 'D2? Yup, D2. Alright. Are we going to have some more scholarships? Yeah, we'll have some more scholarships up there. Okay.'"

"He's checking it out.&nbsp; Just thinking it through. 'They pretty good? Yeah, man. They're pretty good.'"

Indeed, pretty good. Northwest has won four national titles, all since 2017, to go with 11 consecutive MIAA regular championships and eight MIAA tournament titles in the last nine seasons.

Taking over the program that's achieved so much over the last 15 years is no small task. Nor is assembling its roster.

McCollum is taking starters Bennett Stirtz, Isaiah Jackson and Daniel Abrieu with him to Drake, but Keeley expressed confidence that the nine other players on roster, for now, seem all in on coming back for the upcoming season.

That includes Luke Moustakas, Mitch Mascari and Byron Alexander - all with healthy starting and playing experience. Trey Moala, Jack Ratigan and Blake Danitschek also saw healthy minutes as underclassmen this past season.

Keeley can't be McCollum the sequel. No one can. However, Keeley promises he will bring his own style and personality to the job, saying the team will play "fast."

"I'm not Coach McCollum," he said. "My personality and play style and all of that stuff is absolutely going to come through, and we'll embrace that."

"'Fast' is, faithful, assertive, selfless and tough. We feel like when things are going well, those things are in a line. If something is off, we can usually find one of the four that we need to go and fix."

Keeley calls Northwest a "no-brainer" job and it's easy to see why. The culture, the trophies, the history, the fan support, the MIAA. It's all there.

But, Keeley was sure to emphasize the value he sees in the community of Maryville. Eerily similar in size and geography to he and his wife Jana's hometown of Great Bend, Kansas.

"We're high school sweethearts from out there. She lived on the west side of town, and I lived on the east side. Ten minutes and three stoplights away. So, the community felt awesome."

&nbsp;- Keeley says Northwest assistant Jaran Richman will remain on staff. This comes after assistant coach Xavier Kurth followed McCollum to Drake.

&nbsp;- Peterson was sure to thank his "search committee," which included assistant A.D. for media relations Colin McDonough, head strength and conditioning coach Joe Quinlin, Mel Tjeerdsma and Northwest Foundation Board member Seann O'Reily.

- Keeley met with each team member individually last Tuesday. He said his biggest challenge in the short term will be to "get the roster to where we want it to be," noting the list of players they're tying to recruit is "not short."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713988365177.jpeg" alt="Northwest Missouri State athletic director Andy Peterson (left) and new Northwest men's basketball coach Matt Keeley at a press conference Wednesday held inside the Harr Athletic Success Center in Maryville. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Northwest Missouri State athletic director Andy Peterson (left) and new Northwest men's basketball coach Matt Keeley at a press conference Wednesday held inside the Harr Athletic Success Center in Maryville. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMARYVILLE - Matt Keeley started from the ground up when he took over as the head men's basketball coach at Ottawa University in Arizona.Literally. The program didn't exist until he started there in 2017.Seven years, 113 wins, three national tournament berths and two conference titles later, Keeley takes over, arguably, the most structurally sound Division II men's program in the country.Keeley was picked as the 21st coach in the history of Northwest men's basketball on April 13, and officially introduced Wednesday at the Lamkin Activity Center on the Maryville campus.Being Ben McCollum's successor, Keeley says it's McCollum's predecessor, Steve Tappmeyer, who offered some words of wisdom in the early days on the job."(Steve) challenged me to just continue to embrace the greatness that this place is," Keeley said, "and to see it as something you're a part of in the story, and not something you're not trying to come and reinvent. And, I certainly took that to heart."Keeley knows Northwest and the MIAA well enough, even before this job was on his radar. He was an assistant at Washburn from 2007-09 and then at MidAmerica Nazarene from 2009-17.Northwest athletic director Andy Peterson was an assistant on McCollum's staff at Northwest from 2011-17. Peterson says it always 'stuck with him' that the Bearcats and Pioneers seemed to go after the same type of players on the recruiting trail during that time."(Matt) knows the value of the type of student-athletes we're after," Peterson said. "I can't tell you how many kids we recruited against each other on. It seemed, when it came down to the wire of where that kid was going to go, it was Northwest, Washburn and MidAmerica Nazarene. Northwest, UCM, MidAmerica Nazarene."Keeley, a father of four, knows moving a family from the Phoenix metro to Maryville is no small thing. His oldest son, Cade, is a multi-sport athlete coming up through high school.He was the toughest sell, but became more bought in the more he learned about the Bearcats' rich history."Like a coaches' kid, he's processing," Keeley said."He goes, 'D2? Yup, D2. Alright. Are we going to have some more scholarships? Yeah, we'll have some more scholarships up there. Okay.'""He's checking it out.&nbsp; Just thinking it through. 'They pretty good? Yeah, man. They're pretty good.'"Indeed, pretty good. Northwest has won four national titles, all since 2017, to go with 11 consecutive MIAA regular championships and eight MIAA tournament titles in the last nine seasons.Taking over the program that's achieved so much over the last 15 years is no small task. Nor is assembling its roster.McCollum is taking starters Bennett Stirtz, Isaiah Jackson and Daniel Abrieu with him to Drake, but Keeley expressed confidence that the nine other players on roster, for now, seem all in on coming back for the upcoming season.That includes Luke Moustakas, Mitch Mascari and Byron Alexander - all with healthy starting and playing experience. Trey Moala, Jack Ratigan and Blake Danitschek also saw healthy minutes as underclassmen this past season.Keeley can't be McCollum the sequel. No one can. However, Keeley promises he will bring his own style and personality to the job, saying the team will play "fast."Both in tempo and in work ethic."I'm not Coach McCollum," he said. "My personality and play style and all of that stuff is absolutely going to come through, and we'll embrace that.""'Fast' is, faithful, assertive, selfless and tough. We feel like when things are going well, those things are in a line. If something is off, we can usually find one of the four that we need to go and fix."Keeley calls Northwest a "no-brainer" job and it's easy to see why. The culture, the trophies, the history, the fan support, the MIAA. It's all there.But, Keeley was sure to emphasize the value he sees in the community of Maryville. Eerily similar in size and geography to he and his wife Jana's hometown of Great Bend, Kansas."We're high school sweethearts from out there. She lived on the west side of town, and I lived on the east side. Ten minutes and three stoplights away. So, the community felt awesome."Other news and notes&nbsp;- Keeley says Northwest assistant Jaran Richman will remain on staff. This comes after assistant coach Xavier Kurth followed McCollum to Drake.&nbsp;- Peterson was sure to thank his "search committee," which included assistant A.D. for media relations Colin McDonough, head strength and conditioning coach Joe Quinlin, Mel Tjeerdsma and Northwest Foundation Board member Seann O'Reily.- Keeley met with each team member individually last Tuesday. He said his biggest challenge in the short term will be to "get the roster to where we want it to be," noting the list of players they're tying to recruit is "not short."Full audio<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Matt-Keeley---full-press-conference-e2iraam" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Photos<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713990561097.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713990603795.jpeg" alt="Andy Peterson (left), Matt Keeley (center) and Northwest president Dr. Lance Tatum (right)." />
 <figcaption>Andy Peterson (left), Matt Keeley (center) and Northwest president Dr. Lance Tatum (right).</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Matt Keeley looks to 'embrace greatness' as new Northwest men's basketball coach

Ashton Feldhaus grew up in Richmond, Kentucky, surrounded by basketball and coaching royalty.

Her father, Allen Feldhaus Jr., has been the head boys' basketball coach at Madison Central High School in Richmond for 31 years, amassing over 700 career wins in that time.

Ashton's mother, Karen, is the head cheer coach at Madison Central, and has been for over three decades. She's led the Indians to 11 state titles and a&nbsp;Universal Cheerleaders Association National Championship in the small varsity division in 2021.

Her uncle, Deron, is a Kentucky Wildcat legend, who played on a 1991-92 team known as the "Unforgettables."

So, when Ashton got the offer to become the next head women's basketball coach at Missouri Western State University, she felt more than ready.

"I grew up watching two coaches," Feldhaus said. "I knew I wanted to do it. I also knew I didn't want to be a teacher. College athletics was the way for me to go, so I didn't have to teach. Now, I will just teach the game of basketball to these amazing young women."

Feldhaus, 28, <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/5bb78909-68af-47c7-b40a-aca3ca00db7d">was picked as the Griffons' 10th women's basketball coach</a> on April 15. She was formally introduced at a press conference at Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph on Monday.

Feldhaus comes to Western after a vastly successful stint at Eckerd College - a Division II school in St. Petersburg, Florida.

She spent the last five seasons with the Tritons as an assistant coach, including the last two years as the associate head coach. Feldhaus helped Eckerd to an NCAA tournament bid in each of her five years there, working under longtime head coach Paul Honsinger.

"I feel fully prepared to be standing here in front of you, ready to lead this (Missouri Western) team, but know for certain I could not be here without (Paul)," Feldhaus said of her former boss. "So, I hope he knows how grateful I am. I feel forever indebted to him for starting my career."

The Tritons posted a 91-28 overall record in Feldhaus' five years there.

 Missouri Western, under Candi Whitaker, went 100-47 in exact that same span, winning a Central region title (2022) and an MIAA regular season title (2024) along the way.

"For me, I see nothing but excitement and opportunity," Feldhaus said, noting Western's proud history in women's hoops. "I'm ready to take a bar that's already set high and a team that's already won rings and win more. That is the goal and I do not shy away from that."

Feldhaus will turn 29 this June. Having played at both Butler and UT-Martin, she&nbsp;was named to the Women's Basketball Coaches Association Annual 'Thirty Under 30' Class this past March.

Her energy, her vision, her credentials, matched what Missouri Western's leadership was seeking.

"Energetic, confident, prepared," Carter said of Feldhaus, recalling his first meeting with her. "Sometimes, when you talk to a group of assistant coaches, you walk out and say, 'that's why they're assistant coaches. They don't think as a head coach.'"

"It's clear Ashton already sees herself in that role."

Carter says over 150 people applied to the job after <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/2d7a1e70-209e-4807-aa1c-23ab926ff51b">Whitaker announced her departure for North Alabama</a> on March 25.

That field was narrowed to six finalists on April 2 and then to three by April 8. Feldhaus was chosen a week later.

"There were probably 30-40 coaches in that search process that could do a really good job, but we wanted to find the person who was the very best fit for Missouri Western and our culture and where we're going and the things we want to accomplish."

Feldhaus had a brief practice and meeting with the team on Sunday evening at MWSU Fieldhouse. The players will take their final exams this week, and then go home for summer break.

Missouri Western just graduated six seniors. The Griffons have nine players on roster that would be eligible to come back.

In this transfer portal era of college basketball, it's near impossible to tell who's going to end up where when the dust settles.

Regardless, Feldhaus is eager to attack this challenge before her, knowing that she can relate to the challenges players are facing today.

She was a college player herself only six years ago.

"It's awkward, at first, to be honest," Feldhaus said of the transition. "You're trying to get to know them, they're trying to get to know you. I told them, 'Guys, it's going to take time. Relationship building takes time.'"

"But, I'm invested in it and here now, so we're going to do it, and I laid it out for them. I hope they're as excited as I am, because I thought they've been fantastic up to this point."

All nine players who are eligible to return were present Monday. Feldhaus will meet with each player individually in the coming days.

 Sophomore forward Kassandra Caron says the new coach is very matter-of-fact and driven to win, but also empathizes with what players are going through on and off the court.

"She talked about her experiences as a college athlete," Caron said. "She said, 'I want to make it enjoyable for you.'" It's nice to have someone who's been through it recently. They understand and know how hard it is to balance those academics and athletics while traveling."

Freshman guard, Benton graduate and St. Joseph native Kelsey Johnson was also impressed with the energy Feldhaus has brought.

"She brought so much energy," Johnson said. "It was her first time out there coaching us, and she brought that drive for us. I think it'll be a great next couple years for us."

"She's young, but she knows what she's talking about and she's confident. We love the way she coaches, so I'm excited."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713817553632.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter (left), women's basketball coach Ashton Feldhaus (center) and University president Elizabeth Kennedy (right). Photo by A.J. Robbins." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter (left), women's basketball coach Ashton Feldhaus (center) and University president Elizabeth Kennedy (right). Photo by A.J. Robbins.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAshton Feldhaus grew up in Richmond, Kentucky, surrounded by basketball and coaching royalty.Her father, Allen Feldhaus Jr., has been the head boys' basketball coach at Madison Central High School in Richmond for 31 years, amassing over 700 career wins in that time.Ashton's mother, Karen, is the head cheer coach at Madison Central, and has been for over three decades. She's led the Indians to 11 state titles and a&nbsp;Universal Cheerleaders Association National Championship in the small varsity division in 2021.Her uncle, Deron, is a Kentucky Wildcat legend, who played on a 1991-92 team known as the "Unforgettables."So, when Ashton got the offer to become the next head women's basketball coach at Missouri Western State University, she felt more than ready."I grew up watching two coaches," Feldhaus said. "I knew I wanted to do it. I also knew I didn't want to be a teacher. College athletics was the way for me to go, so I didn't have to teach. Now, I will just teach the game of basketball to these amazing young women."Feldhaus, 28, <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/5bb78909-68af-47c7-b40a-aca3ca00db7d">was picked as the Griffons' 10th women's basketball coach</a> on April 15. She was formally introduced at a press conference at Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph on Monday.Feldhaus comes to Western after a vastly successful stint at Eckerd College - a Division II school in St. Petersburg, Florida.She spent the last five seasons with the Tritons as an assistant coach, including the last two years as the associate head coach. Feldhaus helped Eckerd to an NCAA tournament bid in each of her five years there, working under longtime head coach Paul Honsinger."I feel fully prepared to be standing here in front of you, ready to lead this (Missouri Western) team, but know for certain I could not be here without (Paul)," Feldhaus said of her former boss. "So, I hope he knows how grateful I am. I feel forever indebted to him for starting my career."The Tritons posted a 91-28 overall record in Feldhaus' five years there. Missouri Western, under Candi Whitaker, went 100-47 in exact that same span, winning a Central region title (2022) and an MIAA regular season title (2024) along the way."For me, I see nothing but excitement and opportunity," Feldhaus said, noting Western's proud history in women's hoops. "I'm ready to take a bar that's already set high and a team that's already won rings and win more. That is the goal and I do not shy away from that."Feldhaus will turn 29 this June. Having played at both Butler and UT-Martin, she&nbsp;was named to the Women's Basketball Coaches Association Annual 'Thirty Under 30' Class this past March.Her energy, her vision, her credentials, matched what Missouri Western's leadership was seeking."Energetic, confident, prepared," Carter said of Feldhaus, recalling his first meeting with her. "Sometimes, when you talk to a group of assistant coaches, you walk out and say, 'that's why they're assistant coaches. They don't think as a head coach.'""It's clear Ashton already sees herself in that role."Carter says over 150 people applied to the job after <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/2d7a1e70-209e-4807-aa1c-23ab926ff51b">Whitaker announced her departure for North Alabama</a> on March 25.That field was narrowed to six finalists on April 2 and then to three by April 8. Feldhaus was chosen a week later."There were probably 30-40 coaches in that search process that could do a really good job, but we wanted to find the person who was the very best fit for Missouri Western and our culture and where we're going and the things we want to accomplish."Feldhaus had a brief practice and meeting with the team on Sunday evening at MWSU Fieldhouse. The players will take their final exams this week, and then go home for summer break.Missouri Western just graduated six seniors. The Griffons have nine players on roster that would be eligible to come back.In this transfer portal era of college basketball, it's near impossible to tell who's going to end up where when the dust settles.Regardless, Feldhaus is eager to attack this challenge before her, knowing that she can relate to the challenges players are facing today.She was a college player herself only six years ago."It's awkward, at first, to be honest," Feldhaus said of the transition. "You're trying to get to know them, they're trying to get to know you. I told them, 'Guys, it's going to take time. Relationship building takes time.'""But, I'm invested in it and here now, so we're going to do it, and I laid it out for them. I hope they're as excited as I am, because I thought they've been fantastic up to this point."Players' reactionAll nine players who are eligible to return were present Monday. Feldhaus will meet with each player individually in the coming days. Sophomore forward Kassandra Caron says the new coach is very matter-of-fact and driven to win, but also empathizes with what players are going through on and off the court."She talked about her experiences as a college athlete," Caron said. "She said, 'I want to make it enjoyable for you.'" It's nice to have someone who's been through it recently. They understand and know how hard it is to balance those academics and athletics while traveling."Freshman guard, Benton graduate and St. Joseph native Kelsey Johnson was also impressed with the energy Feldhaus has brought."She brought so much energy," Johnson said. "It was her first time out there coaching us, and she brought that drive for us. I think it'll be a great next couple years for us.""She's young, but she knows what she's talking about and she's confident. We love the way she coaches, so I'm excited."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🏀 “You know when you’re time’s right.” Join us today as we introduce new <a href="https://twitter.com/GriffonWBB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GriffonWBB</a> head coach Ashton Feldhaus. The press conference is open to the public. 📍 - Spratt Stadium HOF Room 🕛 - 12pm 📺 - <a href="https://t.co/cuwsLMy4qt">https://t.co/cuwsLMy4qt</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GriffUp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GriffUp</a> <a href="https://t.co/oNx7kRWpU7">pic.twitter.com/oNx7kRWpU7</a>&mdash; Missouri Western Athletics (@MWSUGriffons) <a href="https://twitter.com/MWSUGriffons/status/1782420631306297441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Audio from Monday<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Ashton-Feldhaus---FULL-press-conference-e2invd7/a-ab6p4k0" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Ashton-Feldhaus---1x1-media-session-e2invfe/a-ab6p4o8" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Kelsey-Johnson--Kassandra-Caron-e2invh4/a-ab6p4rm" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713820011834.jpeg" alt="Photo by A.J. Robbins." />
 <figcaption>Photo by A.J. Robbins.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Feldhaus 'fully prepared' to be Missouri Western's women's basketball coach

The Missouri State High School Activities Association announced last May that boys’ volleyball would become a sanctioned sport in the spring of 2024.

Seventy-two schools across Missouri are taking part in this first official season. The majority of them are in the Kansas City and St. Louis metro areas.

 But, one of them is in St. Joseph. St. Joseph Central is fielding a boys’ volleyball team for the first time ever this spring - head coached by Dan McCamy.

A longtime track coach and P.E. teacher, McCamy says getting boys’ volleyball to the city and the state has been a long time coming.

"When we played volleyball in the spring of last year and in the fall this year, we really started looking at the process of recruiting players to be a part of the program," McCamy told KFEQ Radio.

"Evaluating some of those guys through P.E. and trying to encourage them to be a part of something."

Sixty boys tried out for Central’s team. Twenty-three of them are on the roster. McCamy says these 23 boys have brought great energy and enthusiasm each day.

"The energy around our program has been great," he said. "I think the boys have been excited. Every program right now is just excited to be a part of it. The Kansas City teams we play, there's just been good energy toward every match we've been a part of."

Central has played some outstanding competition from the Kansas City area this season. After an 0-3 start, the Indians went onto win three matches in a row, and are now 5-6 on the season.

Not bad, McCamy says, considering nearly all of the schools that Central plays have had either club or intramural volleyball for at least a few years.

"If we can get to a team that I believe, maybe on paper we shouldn't beat, then we're really starting to make those stepping stones in the right direction," he said. "Now, it's always going to be a challenge for us right now, because all of those teams in the Kansas City area have been playing 4-5 years of volleyball."

McCamy’s top assistant is former Missouri Western libero and Leavenworth native Jessica Sachen. She says transitioning from playing women’s college volleyball, to coaching first-year varsity boys, can be a challenge, but also a great reward.

"I love to see growth," she said. "That's why I chose high school, whether it was girls or boys. I wanted to see growth in general in the athletes. I think that's what made me love coaching, really. So, love the boys. Love the team. There's been a lot of growth. I'm excited to see what the next year holds."

Sophomore and outside hitter A.J. Whiteman first tried volleyball in one of McCamy’s P.E. classes.

"Playing volleyball in there was super fun," Whiteman recalled. "Having all of my new teammates trying out this new sport. It was just super exciting compared to basketball. I just got right into it and wanted to learn more."

Freshman libero Rifath Lian says the best part about the experience has been the development and growth of team chemistry.

"We started off really rough," Lian said. "We didn't have great communication. We lacked a lot of skills and we hit the ball very bad. Like, ego hitting. But, I mean, we've gotten a lot better since the start."

Central is the only school in northwest Missouri, north of Kansas City, that’s tried boys’ volleyball so far.

McCamy estimates that won’t be the case much longer.

"With MSHSAA making a stance and saying this is a sport for us, I think you'll see substantial growth because of it. I think there's going to be just a lot more growth here."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713467368933.jpeg" alt="Dan McCamy (left) and Jessica Sachen (right) meet with the team before a practice at the CHS Coliseum. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Dan McCamy (left) and Jessica Sachen (right) meet with the team before a practice at the CHS Coliseum. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri State High School Activities Association announced last May that boys’ volleyball would become a sanctioned sport in the spring of 2024.Seventy-two schools across Missouri are taking part in this first official season. The majority of them are in the Kansas City and St. Louis metro areas. But, one of them is in St. Joseph. St. Joseph Central is fielding a boys’ volleyball team for the first time ever this spring - head coached by Dan McCamy.A longtime track coach and P.E. teacher, McCamy says getting boys’ volleyball to the city and the state has been a long time coming."When we played volleyball in the spring of last year and in the fall this year, we really started looking at the process of recruiting players to be a part of the program," McCamy told KFEQ Radio."Evaluating some of those guys through P.E. and trying to encourage them to be a part of something."Sixty boys tried out for Central’s team. Twenty-three of them are on the roster. McCamy says these 23 boys have brought great energy and enthusiasm each day."The energy around our program has been great," he said. "I think the boys have been excited. Every program right now is just excited to be a part of it. The Kansas City teams we play, there's just been good energy toward every match we've been a part of."Central has played some outstanding competition from the Kansas City area this season. After an 0-3 start, the Indians went onto win three matches in a row, and are now 5-6 on the season.Not bad, McCamy says, considering nearly all of the schools that Central plays have had either club or intramural volleyball for at least a few years."If we can get to a team that I believe, maybe on paper we shouldn't beat, then we're really starting to make those stepping stones in the right direction," he said. "Now, it's always going to be a challenge for us right now, because all of those teams in the Kansas City area have been playing 4-5 years of volleyball."McCamy’s top assistant is former Missouri Western libero and Leavenworth native Jessica Sachen. She says transitioning from playing women’s college volleyball, to coaching first-year varsity boys, can be a challenge, but also a great reward."I love to see growth," she said. "That's why I chose high school, whether it was girls or boys. I wanted to see growth in general in the athletes. I think that's what made me love coaching, really. So, love the boys. Love the team. There's been a lot of growth. I'm excited to see what the next year holds."Sophomore and outside hitter A.J. Whiteman first tried volleyball in one of McCamy’s P.E. classes."Playing volleyball in there was super fun," Whiteman recalled. "Having all of my new teammates trying out this new sport. It was just super exciting compared to basketball. I just got right into it and wanted to learn more."Freshman libero Rifath Lian says the best part about the experience has been the development and growth of team chemistry."We started off really rough," Lian said. "We didn't have great communication. We lacked a lot of skills and we hit the ball very bad. Like, ego hitting. But, I mean, we've gotten a lot better since the start."Central is the only school in northwest Missouri, north of Kansas City, that’s tried boys’ volleyball so far.McCamy estimates that won’t be the case much longer."With MSHSAA making a stance and saying this is a sport for us, I think you'll see substantial growth because of it. I think there's going to be just a lot more growth here."Interviews<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Central-boys-VB-coach-Dan-McCamy-e2iivm0/a-ab6c8gu" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Central-boys-VB-assistant-Jessica-Sachen-e2iivnb/a-ab6c8kt" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/A-J--Whiteman---Central-boys-VB-e2iivs9/a-ab6c946" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Rifath-Lian---Central-boys-volleyball-e2iivu3/a-ab6c9as" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713469496892.jpeg" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713469512670.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713466888105.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713469636575.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Central navigating first season of boys' volleyball

St. Joseph Christian School unveiled a significant expansion project this past fall - a project meant to increase classroom and activity space as enrollment at the school continues to grow.

The school has secured the $9.3 million necessary to start and carry out this project.&nbsp;The Herzog Foundation donated 25% of the total needed, equating to over $2.3 million.

Glory Fagan, director of development at St. Joseph Christian, says there's still a bit more money to raise.

"We have secured the original goal in terms of our fundraising," Fagan told KFEQ Radio. "We have a little bit more to raise, because the plans have changed slightly, but we are ready to break ground and move forward."

One of the changes to the original project is the addition of an elevator. The project is called the Nehemiah Project, or Nehemiah 2.0 -&nbsp;named after a book in the Bible that chronicles the reconstruction of the walls of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.

It includes a new gymnasium, five new classrooms, new locker rooms and an expanded playground area. The playground portion has been completed and opened.

The new gym will seat up to 1,100 people. It'll have two, full-size basketball courts, a mezzanine with a walking track, two locker rooms and a large commons area.

Fagan says the project will allow for a higher number of students from Pre-K through 12th grade, as enrollment at the school continues to grow.

"We're at about 517 students enrolled now," she said. "This will allow us to increase our capacity to around 700 students."

Nehemiah 2.0 is expected to be completed by the start of the 2025-26 school year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713387435708.jpeg" alt="Glory Fagan points out the different portions of the Nehemiah Building Project at St. Joseph Christian. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Glory Fagan points out the different portions of the Nehemiah Building Project at St. Joseph Christian. Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph Christian School unveiled a significant expansion project this past fall - a project meant to increase classroom and activity space as enrollment at the school continues to grow.The school has secured the $9.3 million necessary to start and carry out this project.&nbsp;The Herzog Foundation donated 25% of the total needed, equating to over $2.3 million.Glory Fagan, director of development at St. Joseph Christian, says there's still a bit more money to raise."We have secured the original goal in terms of our fundraising," Fagan told KFEQ Radio. "We have a little bit more to raise, because the plans have changed slightly, but we are ready to break ground and move forward."One of the changes to the original project is the addition of an elevator. The project is called the Nehemiah Project, or Nehemiah 2.0 -&nbsp;named after a book in the Bible that chronicles the reconstruction of the walls of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.It includes a new gymnasium, five new classrooms, new locker rooms and an expanded playground area. The playground portion has been completed and opened.The new gym will seat up to 1,100 people. It'll have two, full-size basketball courts, a mezzanine with a walking track, two locker rooms and a large commons area.Fagan says the project will allow for a higher number of students from Pre-K through 12th grade, as enrollment at the school continues to grow."We're at about 517 students enrolled now," she said. "This will allow us to increase our capacity to around 700 students."Nehemiah 2.0 is expected to be completed by the start of the 2025-26 school year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713387904842.jpeg" alt="A blueprint of the new 1,100 seat gym that's set to be complete in the next 18-24 months at St. Joseph Christian." />
 <figcaption>A blueprint of the new 1,100 seat gym that's set to be complete in the next 18-24 months at St. Joseph Christian.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713387958527.jpeg" alt="A view from above at the Nehemiah Project at St. Joseph Christian. Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>A view from above at the Nehemiah Project at St. Joseph Christian. Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Christian secures needed funding to begin Nehemiah project

Two new board members were sworn in during the Saint Joseph Board of Education meeting Monday night.

Mike Moore and Ronda Chesney won their seats on the board during the April 2 election. Board members also voted Moore as the new Vice President of the school board while re-electing LaTonya Williams as President.

Teacher pay is a top priority for the board. Moore says he supports a levy in order to increase teacher pay, and "get the district more competitive so we can retain and attract the best teachers."

Moving forward, Moore sees district finances as an issue. Moore says, "We have a little bit of deficit spending already. We have the reserves to do it, but long term that's not sustainable. Overall, district financial planning is a big part of where we have to go." Moore said it is an honor to serve on the school board and looks forward to the work ahead.

Ronda Chesney said she believes a top concern for the board is academic issues within the district and accreditation. "We need to look at ways we can support the students and the teachers to achieve that district accreditation."

LaTonya Williams won reelection earlier this month and the board voted her to a second term as Board President.

Williams echoed Moore's sentiment concerning teacher pay, "My number one goal is to increase teacher pay. I always keep my word and that is my number one goal."

Williams encouraged teamwork and compromise among board members. "Let's think about the jobs we were all elected to do. Above all of our personal agendas or feelings about each other."

The next Board of Education meeting will be held April 29, at 5:30 p.m.

St. Joseph PostTwo new board members were sworn in during the Saint Joseph Board of Education meeting Monday night.Mike Moore and Ronda Chesney won their seats on the board during the April 2 election. Board members also voted Moore as the new Vice President of the school board while re-electing LaTonya Williams as President.Teacher pay is a top priority for the board. Moore says he supports a levy in order to increase teacher pay, and "get the district more competitive so we can retain and attract the best teachers."Moving forward, Moore sees district finances as an issue. Moore says, "We have a little bit of deficit spending already. We have the reserves to do it, but long term that's not sustainable. Overall, district financial planning is a big part of where we have to go." Moore said it is an honor to serve on the school board and looks forward to the work ahead.Ronda Chesney said she believes a top concern for the board is academic issues within the district and accreditation. "We need to look at ways we can support the students and the teachers to achieve that district accreditation."LaTonya Williams won reelection earlier this month and the board voted her to a second term as Board President.Williams echoed Moore's sentiment concerning teacher pay, "My number one goal is to increase teacher pay. I always keep my word and that is my number one goal."Williams encouraged teamwork and compromise among board members. "Let's think about the jobs we were all elected to do. Above all of our personal agendas or feelings about each other."The next Board of Education meeting will be held April 29, at 5:30 p.m.

New members installed on St. Joseph Board of Education

Missouri Western State University has hired Ashton Feldhaus as the next head women's basketball coach, becoming the 10th head coach in the history of the program.

Seen as a rising star in the coaching ranks, Feldhaus comes from Eckerd College - a Division II school in St. Petersburg, Florida. She joined the staff as an assistant in July 2019 and was elevated to associate head coach in 2022.

She spent five seasons with the Tritons, helping them to an NCAA tournament bid and a 20-plus win season in each of those five years. The Tritons have posted a 91-28 overall record during her five-year tenure.

"I am beyond excited to join Griffon Nation as the next head women's basketball coach," Feldhaus said in a statement. "I am thankful to Andy (Carter), (President) Elizabeth Kennedy and the MWSU athletics staff for this opportunity to build on the great tradition at Missouri Western."

"As soon as I stepped on campus, it was clear that the support from the administration and the community is paramount to the success of Griffon Athletics. I am ready to get to St. Joseph and get to work!"

Feldhaus, just this year, was named to the Women's Basketball Coaches Association Annual Thirty Under 30 Class. She served as the team's academic advisor, as the Tritons ranked third nationally on the WBCA Academic Top 25 Honor Roll with a 3.78 GPA in the 2019-20 season.

"We are so excited to welcome Ashton to the Griffon family," Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter said in a statement.

"The national search process brought forth an incredibly talented candidate pool. With the current wave of momentum in our women's basketball program, we were meticulous in our search for talent, fit and a proven winner. Ashton checks all the boxes. She is a rising star in the profession. Her maturity, knowledge, preparation and energy is contagious. She is a natural leader who understands the expectations."

In her first year on the Triton sidelines, Feldhaus helped lead the team to the Sunshine State Tournament Championship and Eckerd's fourth ever NCAA Tournament appearance.

In the 2021-22 season, she helped lead the program to another record setting season, including their fifth consecutive trip to the&nbsp;NCAA Tournament.

In the 2022-23 season, she helped guide the program to new heights, including their sixth consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament and the program's first Sweet 16 appearance. Eckerd ended the season at No. 9 in the WBCA Poll.

A native of Richmond, Kentucky, Feldhaus boasts a strong playing resume at the NCAA Division I level, making stops at both Butler University and the University of Tennessee-Martin.

Her first season with the Skyhawks saw Feldhaus earn Second Team All-OVC honors and OVC All-Newcomer honors and was a six-time conference newcomer of the week while averaging 11.0 points and 5.1 rebounds per game.

As a senior, she earned a repeat selection to the All-OVC second team despite being slowed by injury.

Feldhaus received a Bachelors Degree in Communications and a Masters Degree in Family and Consumer Science from UT-Martin.

She succeeds Candi Whitaker, <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/2d7a1e70-209e-4807-aa1c-23ab926ff51b">who left Missouri Western to take the Division I coaching job</a> at North Alabama on March 25.

A formal press conference and public reception to officially introduce Coach Feldhaus will take place next week with dates and times to be announced soon, per Missouri Western athletics.

Griffon women's basketball has enjoyed great success the last few years, winning a Central Region title in 2022 and then an MIAA regular season title this past season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713206463171.jpeg" alt="Ashton Feldhaus (back row, top right) is the next head coach of Missouri Western State University. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Ashton Feldhaus (back row, top right) is the next head coach of Missouri Western State University. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University has hired Ashton Feldhaus as the next head women's basketball coach, becoming the 10th head coach in the history of the program.Seen as a rising star in the coaching ranks, Feldhaus comes from Eckerd College - a Division II school in St. Petersburg, Florida. She joined the staff as an assistant in July 2019 and was elevated to associate head coach in 2022.She spent five seasons with the Tritons, helping them to an NCAA tournament bid and a 20-plus win season in each of those five years. The Tritons have posted a 91-28 overall record during her five-year tenure."I am beyond excited to join Griffon Nation as the next head women's basketball coach," Feldhaus said in a statement. "I am thankful to Andy (Carter), (President) Elizabeth Kennedy and the MWSU athletics staff for this opportunity to build on the great tradition at Missouri Western.""As soon as I stepped on campus, it was clear that the support from the administration and the community is paramount to the success of Griffon Athletics. I am ready to get to St. Joseph and get to work!"Feldhaus, just this year, was named to the Women's Basketball Coaches Association Annual Thirty Under 30 Class. She served as the team's academic advisor, as the Tritons ranked third nationally on the WBCA Academic Top 25 Honor Roll with a 3.78 GPA in the 2019-20 season."We are so excited to welcome Ashton to the Griffon family," Missouri Western athletic director Andy Carter said in a statement."The national search process brought forth an incredibly talented candidate pool. With the current wave of momentum in our women's basketball program, we were meticulous in our search for talent, fit and a proven winner. Ashton checks all the boxes. She is a rising star in the profession. Her maturity, knowledge, preparation and energy is contagious. She is a natural leader who understands the expectations."In her first year on the Triton sidelines, Feldhaus helped lead the team to the Sunshine State Tournament Championship and Eckerd's fourth ever NCAA Tournament appearance.In the 2021-22 season, she helped lead the program to another record setting season, including their fifth consecutive trip to the&nbsp;NCAA Tournament.In the 2022-23 season, she helped guide the program to new heights, including their sixth consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament and the program's first Sweet 16 appearance. Eckerd ended the season at No. 9 in the WBCA Poll.A native of Richmond, Kentucky, Feldhaus boasts a strong playing resume at the NCAA Division I level, making stops at both Butler University and the University of Tennessee-Martin.Her first season with the Skyhawks saw Feldhaus earn Second Team All-OVC honors and OVC All-Newcomer honors and was a six-time conference newcomer of the week while averaging 11.0 points and 5.1 rebounds per game.As a senior, she earned a repeat selection to the All-OVC second team despite being slowed by injury.Feldhaus received a Bachelors Degree in Communications and a Masters Degree in Family and Consumer Science from UT-Martin.She succeeds Candi Whitaker, <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/2d7a1e70-209e-4807-aa1c-23ab926ff51b">who left Missouri Western to take the Division I coaching job</a> at North Alabama on March 25.A formal press conference and public reception to officially introduce Coach Feldhaus will take place next week with dates and times to be announced soon, per Missouri Western athletics.Griffon women's basketball has enjoyed great success the last few years, winning a Central Region title in 2022 and then an MIAA regular season title this past season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713207325987.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU taps Ashton Feldhaus as next women's basketball coach

A $20 million dollar St. Joseph <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/6dab078f-64af-4da0-8d80-1cee6134e02b">School District Bond Issue</a> was heavily approved by voters last week.

It encompasses many different aspects, focusing on improvements to	 student safety and experience.

One of the biggest pieces of this bond deals with athletics. About $6.5 million will go toward new turf fields and running tracks at Benton, Central and Lafayette High Schools.

Shannon Notle, activities director for the school district, says this was a much needed upgrade for student competitors in the city, noting that teams and athletes travel to state-of-the-art facilities in Kansas City and other communities on a regular basis.

"There's a lot more out there that they see that we don't have here," Nolte told KFEQ Radio. "So, I think for our kids and students, it's a great thing. I'm glad our community was able to see that and vote that way so that our kids can have things that other students have in other areas."

Nolte says it'd be nice to have the fields done by the start of the next school year, but reiterates that it's not a guarantee.

"It might be better to wait and make sure we get things right and done correctly," he said. "Get the designs right. In some places, it'll be a tight fit. So, if we have to do some other things around the field to get it done right, I think we'd rather take our time and get it done right, versus rushing into it to get it done by August."

Turf fields will be more cost effective in the long run. District officials estimate it costs around $50,000 annually to maintain a grass field for competition and activities.

Nolte adds it'll be fun for athletes and teams once these projects are completed.

"What a fun experience it'll be at this time next (school) year when these things finally get done," he said, "and people say, 'Wow, there's some definite improvements going on.'"

"I'd like to thank the community for their support and their vote and we're going to now begin the work to get these things done."

The second biggest piece in the bond issue is $3.2 million, which is going towards fine arts upgrades across all schools in the district.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712780069507.jpeg" alt="Benton, Central and Lafayette High School will all be getting new turf fields and running tracks, thanks to a newly passed bond issue from the St. Joseph School District. Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Benton, Central and Lafayette High School will all be getting new turf fields and running tracks, thanks to a newly passed bond issue from the St. Joseph School District. Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA $20 million dollar St. Joseph <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/6dab078f-64af-4da0-8d80-1cee6134e02b">School District Bond Issue</a> was heavily approved by voters last week.It encompasses many different aspects, focusing on improvements to	 student safety and experience.One of the biggest pieces of this bond deals with athletics. About $6.5 million will go toward new turf fields and running tracks at Benton, Central and Lafayette High Schools.Shannon Notle, activities director for the school district, says this was a much needed upgrade for student competitors in the city, noting that teams and athletes travel to state-of-the-art facilities in Kansas City and other communities on a regular basis."There's a lot more out there that they see that we don't have here," Nolte told KFEQ Radio. "So, I think for our kids and students, it's a great thing. I'm glad our community was able to see that and vote that way so that our kids can have things that other students have in other areas."Nolte says it'd be nice to have the fields done by the start of the next school year, but reiterates that it's not a guarantee."It might be better to wait and make sure we get things right and done correctly," he said. "Get the designs right. In some places, it'll be a tight fit. So, if we have to do some other things around the field to get it done right, I think we'd rather take our time and get it done right, versus rushing into it to get it done by August."Turf fields will be more cost effective in the long run. District officials estimate it costs around $50,000 annually to maintain a grass field for competition and activities.Nolte adds it'll be fun for athletes and teams once these projects are completed."What a fun experience it'll be at this time next (school) year when these things finally get done," he said, "and people say, 'Wow, there's some definite improvements going on.'""I'd like to thank the community for their support and their vote and we're going to now begin the work to get these things done."The second biggest piece in the bond issue is $3.2 million, which is going towards fine arts upgrades across all schools in the district.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712780095800.jpeg" alt="Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph School District athletics to get big boost from newly passed bond issue

Lafayette set the tone from the beginning with six runs in the first inning and a strong start from pitcher Halen Jonas, leading the Irish to a 14-3 win over Bishop LeBlond on Thursday at Phil Welch Stadium.

The Irish (6-2) drew 13 free passes in the win - 10 of those being walks. Lafayette also scored three unearned runs, benefitting from three LeBlond errors and three total balks by LeBlond pitchers.

Lafayette led 8-0 in the second and then 11-0 in the fourth inning before LeBlond (0-5) scored its first two runs in the fifth and then one in the bottom of the sixth.

The Irish scored three insurance runs in the top of the sixth to put themselves in run rule position.

Eli Castle led the way at the plate for Lafayette, going 2-for-3 with a double, four RBIs and a pair of stolen bases.

Halen Jonas, Jake McQuiston, Ayden Hardy and Walker Cave all scored twice in the win.

"We didn't swing at a lot of pitches out of the zone," Lafayette coach Matt Jansen said. "We stayed consistent with it, given the circumstance and keep moving in the right direction offensively."

On the hill, Jonas was dialed in, striking out six of his 10 batters faced, allowing only one hit and one walk.

"Honestly, I didn't think I was going to do all that good," he said. "My arm was hurting a lot. I got here, didn't have the best warmups and then, as a team, we all kind of locked in last moment, went in there and took over."

Cave pitched the middle 2.2 innings, while Drake Losson closed it out with a pair of strikeouts in the sixth to end the game via run rule.

After a 2-2 start to the season, with early losses to stout Benton and Savannah squads, Lafayette has now reeled off four straight wins - all against MEC competition.&nbsp;

"We're starting to kind of find our groove," Jansen noted. "We're hoping we've found a group of young men that we can kind of continue to gel and build chemistry through. Yeah, I think we're starting to find our groove offensively."&nbsp;

Lafayette is home to East Buchanan on Monday at 4:30. LeBlond visits Plattsburg on Monday at 4:30 as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712277494713.jpeg" alt="Halen Jonas got the win on the mound for Lafayette, striking out six batters in 2.2 innings. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Halen Jonas got the win on the mound for Lafayette, striking out six batters in 2.2 innings. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostLafayette set the tone from the beginning with six runs in the first inning and a strong start from pitcher Halen Jonas, leading the Irish to a 14-3 win over Bishop LeBlond on Thursday at Phil Welch Stadium.The Irish (6-2) drew 13 free passes in the win - 10 of those being walks. Lafayette also scored three unearned runs, benefitting from three LeBlond errors and three total balks by LeBlond pitchers.Lafayette led 8-0 in the second and then 11-0 in the fourth inning before LeBlond (0-5) scored its first two runs in the fifth and then one in the bottom of the sixth.The Irish scored three insurance runs in the top of the sixth to put themselves in run rule position.Eli Castle led the way at the plate for Lafayette, going 2-for-3 with a double, four RBIs and a pair of stolen bases.Halen Jonas, Jake McQuiston, Ayden Hardy and Walker Cave all scored twice in the win."We didn't swing at a lot of pitches out of the zone," Lafayette coach Matt Jansen said. "We stayed consistent with it, given the circumstance and keep moving in the right direction offensively."On the hill, Jonas was dialed in, striking out six of his 10 batters faced, allowing only one hit and one walk."Honestly, I didn't think I was going to do all that good," he said. "My arm was hurting a lot. I got here, didn't have the best warmups and then, as a team, we all kind of locked in last moment, went in there and took over."Cave pitched the middle 2.2 innings, while Drake Losson closed it out with a pair of strikeouts in the sixth to end the game via run rule.After a 2-2 start to the season, with early losses to stout Benton and Savannah squads, Lafayette has now reeled off four straight wins - all against MEC competition.&nbsp;"We're starting to kind of find our groove," Jansen noted. "We're hoping we've found a group of young men that we can kind of continue to gel and build chemistry through. Yeah, I think we're starting to find our groove offensively."&nbsp;Lafayette is home to East Buchanan on Monday at 4:30. LeBlond visits Plattsburg on Monday at 4:30 as well.Photos<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712278956228.jpeg" alt="Gavin Weiland." />
 <figcaption>Gavin Weiland.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712278989682.jpeg" alt="Quentin Leake." />
 <figcaption>Quentin Leake.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712279013041.jpeg" alt="Walker Cave touches home." />
 <figcaption>Walker Cave touches home.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712279039093.jpeg" alt="Landyn Woolery." />
 <figcaption>Landyn Woolery.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712279062343.jpeg" alt="Samuel Page." />
 <figcaption>Samuel Page.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712279827366.jpeg" alt="Eli Castle." />
 <figcaption>Eli Castle.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Lafayette stays on a roll with big win over Bishop LeBlond Thursday

SAVANNAH -&nbsp;A major expansion project is underway at Savannah High School - a project that will give the school new classrooms and improved athletic facilities.

The upgrades include turf for the football field, a new, eight-lane track and the addition of a video scoreboard.

Savannah Athletic Director and head football coach Anthony Hays says this $20 million project, however, spans well beyond athletics.

"That's going to a new performing arts center," Hays told KFEQ Radio. "The renovation of our game gym, the addition of a new auxiliary gym, which will be awesome on the athletics side of stuff where we can maybe play sub varsity games in one gym, high school games in another. Make our nights and tournaments go by a little quicker."

"Also new athletic locker rooms and P.E. locker rooms."

Savannah launched a $2 million fundraiser back in January to help pay for the track and turf field. Hays says about $1.2 million of that has already been raised.

The plan is to break ground on the field and track project this summer.&nbsp;Hays says the field project, classroom expansion and gym revamp is scheduled to be done by the start of the coming school year.

There'll also be new locker rooms and a new film room.

A new, two-story press box is slated to be done within a month or two. The new performing arts center may take until January.

Hays says the school district wants the very best for its students.

"We want all of our kids to have the very best we can offer them," he said. "To see it happening shows you the investment of our school district and community into the next generation, and that's pretty neat to see in our small town."

While the upgrades to the turf, press box and scoreboard will enhance the Friday night football atmosphere,&nbsp;Hays says the soccer teams stand to gain from an upgraded field as well.

"(Soccer) is in a facility right now that doesn't have lights, running water, a true grand stands or even bathrooms," he said, "so they're going to move their games to the stadium. So, I think that'll give them a pretty neat opportunity and venue for their games."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712181286421.jpeg" alt="Savannah athletic director and head football coach Anthony Hays shows the progress being made on the high school's new, two-story press box, which will be completed in the next 4-8 weeks. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Savannah athletic director and head football coach Anthony Hays shows the progress being made on the high school's new, two-story press box, which will be completed in the next 4-8 weeks. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSAVANNAH -&nbsp;A major expansion project is underway at Savannah High School - a project that will give the school new classrooms and improved athletic facilities.The upgrades include turf for the football field, a new, eight-lane track and the addition of a video scoreboard.Savannah Athletic Director and head football coach Anthony Hays says this $20 million project, however, spans well beyond athletics."That's going to a new performing arts center," Hays told KFEQ Radio. "The renovation of our game gym, the addition of a new auxiliary gym, which will be awesome on the athletics side of stuff where we can maybe play sub varsity games in one gym, high school games in another. Make our nights and tournaments go by a little quicker.""Also new athletic locker rooms and P.E. locker rooms."Savannah launched a $2 million fundraiser back in January to help pay for the track and turf field. Hays says about $1.2 million of that has already been raised.The plan is to break ground on the field and track project this summer.&nbsp;Hays says the field project, classroom expansion and gym revamp is scheduled to be done by the start of the coming school year.There'll also be new locker rooms and a new film room.A new, two-story press box is slated to be done within a month or two. The new performing arts center may take until January.Hays says the school district wants the very best for its students."We want all of our kids to have the very best we can offer them," he said. "To see it happening shows you the investment of our school district and community into the next generation, and that's pretty neat to see in our small town."While the upgrades to the turf, press box and scoreboard will enhance the Friday night football atmosphere,&nbsp;Hays says the soccer teams stand to gain from an upgraded field as well."(Soccer) is in a facility right now that doesn't have lights, running water, a true grand stands or even bathrooms," he said, "so they're going to move their games to the stadium. So, I think that'll give them a pretty neat opportunity and venue for their games."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712261170692.jpeg" alt="Renovations underway at the Savannah High School gym. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Renovations underway at the Savannah High School gym. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712261210182.jpeg" alt="A new performing arts center will be built on the grounds of Savannah High School." />
 <figcaption>A new performing arts center will be built on the grounds of Savannah High School.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712261255834.jpeg" alt="A rendering of what the new field and track will look like." />
 <figcaption>A rendering of what the new field and track will look like.</figcaption>
 </figure>Full interview<div><iframe src="https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kfeq-sports/embed/episodes/Savannah-A-D---head-football-coach-Anthony-Hays-e2huith" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Savannah High School making progress on expansion for athletic, academic facilities

The confetti has fallen, the trophy has been hoisted and the curtain has drawn on another NCAA Division II women’s basketball Elite Eight hosted by the St. Joseph Sports Commission and Missouri Western State University.

This was the sixth time ever that this event was in St. Joseph - all of them since 2003. It was also the first time since 2011 that the city got to host the DII women’s national title game.

Brett Esely, director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission and director of the tournament, says getting to host the title game this year, unlike last year, made it that much more special.

The title game was in Dallas last year as part of the NCAA's commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Title IX.

"To see that in Civic Arena and to see how happy people are around that, that happiness spreads to a lot of people," Esely told KFEQ Radio. "And it spreads to the folks who put in a lot of blood, sweat and tears to make it a great championship week."

Esely says about 2,200 people were in attendance last Friday night when <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/b0c6804d-9c17-4d11-9549-c1752fec6100">Minnesota State defeated Texas Woman’s University 89-73</a> at Civic Arena.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712179192750.jpeg" alt="Minnesota State was celebrated as the Division II women's basketball national champion last Friday at Civic Arena in St. Joseph. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Minnesota State was celebrated as the Division II women's basketball national champion last Friday at Civic Arena in St. Joseph. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe confetti has fallen, the trophy has been hoisted and the curtain has drawn on another NCAA Division II women’s basketball Elite Eight hosted by the St. Joseph Sports Commission and Missouri Western State University.This was the sixth time ever that this event was in St. Joseph - all of them since 2003. It was also the first time since 2011 that the city got to host the DII women’s national title game.Brett Esely, director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission and director of the tournament, says getting to host the title game this year, unlike last year, made it that much more special.The title game was in Dallas last year as part of the NCAA's commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Title IX."To see that in Civic Arena and to see how happy people are around that, that happiness spreads to a lot of people," Esely told KFEQ Radio. "And it spreads to the folks who put in a lot of blood, sweat and tears to make it a great championship week."Esely says about 2,200 people were in attendance last Friday night when <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/b0c6804d-9c17-4d11-9549-c1752fec6100">Minnesota State defeated Texas Woman’s University 89-73</a> at Civic Arena."If you were in the building Friday night, and a lot of people were, you saw an experience that I don't think you'll forget anytime soon."Eight teams from eight different states qualified, and that spanned literally coast-to-coast, from California to New York. As the week went on, fans of the winning teams stuck around, making local eateries and establishments their gathering spots.Esely says the fans from Ferris State University, for example, were often seen at Geneo's Pizza downtown before games."That's just one example of folks saying, 'Hey, I saw this travel party out at this restaurant or this place,'" he said. "I think we measure these championships and their success by a number of different things. But, we love to talk about economic impact.""We don't have those numbers back yet, but I think the economic impact of having this event for a full week in St. Joseph is certainly a plus."Another highlight from the week was teams going to area high schools for team welcome events.<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/4b8c8cb3-477a-4fed-8e78-b9760a84f7e3">The Texas Woman’s team went to Mid-Buchanan High School</a> where they made an instant connection with young girls and athletes in 3rd-8th grade.In return, those young fans showed out in full force to support Texas Woman’s all week."It starts with the leadership at the school," Esely said. "(Texas Woman's) embraced that and that's what community engagement is all about and that's what the beauty of Division II athletics is all about. You have that grassroots effort to get out and engage and teach and be role models for the students of tomorrow." With the Elite 8 now in the rearview, Esely and the Sports Commission look ahead to future events, which includes the unveiling of the next St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame Class on May 16."We'll make that public on the 16th," he said. "That gives the selection committee an opportunity to review the candidates, select the class. From there, we'll notify the class. We want them to know before it goes public. Then, we're shooting to release the 2024 Hall of Fame Class on May 16th."The Hall of Fame induction ceremony is slated for Sunday, August 25.Another big event is the second St. Joseph Marathon, set for Saturday, September 28. Sign up for that race has been open on the Sports Commission's website since January.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712179117925.jpeg" alt="Brett Esely (right) presented Minnesota State women's basketball coach Emilee Thiesse (left) with a commemorative Pony Express Mochila after the Mavericks won the national title last week. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Brett Esely (right) presented Minnesota State women's basketball coach Emilee Thiesse (left) with a commemorative Pony Express Mochila after the Mavericks won the national title last week. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

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