Missouri Western head football coach&nbsp;Matt Williamson announced the hiring of&nbsp;Fred Wyatt&nbsp;as the Griffons new defensive line coach Thursday. Wyatt comes to MWSU from Kansas State, where he was a defensive graduate assistant for the last two seasons. "It was an extensive search, but we found our guy," said Coach Williamson in a release. "Coach Wyatt is a bright, young coach who has tremendous knowledge of the game.&nbsp; He played at a high level and has learned under great coaches.&nbsp; He's a first-class individual who will be a great defensive line coach and will make our program better.&nbsp; This is a huge win for Griffon football and I can't wait to get him connected with our team!" Wyatt worked with the Wildcats' defensive backs alongside his father Buddy, who has spent 31 years as a defensive line coach in the Big 12, SEC, Big Ten and the AAC. "I am thankful for the opportunity that Coach Williamson and Coach Richter have given me as the new Defensive Line coach here at Missouri Western," Coach Wyatt said. "I'm excited to get to work with a great staff at a great university. And I'm looking forward to working with the young men on the Defensive Line and helping them succeed not only on the field but off it as well." Wyatt played collegiately at Northwestern University, playing defensive tackle for coach Pat Fitzgerald.&nbsp; He appeared in 40 games during his career, including 10 starts as a senior in 2018.

Wyatt helped the Wildcats win the Big Ten West title that season and he capped off his career with a win over No. 17 Utah in the Holiday Bowl.&nbsp; He had 28 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss as a senior.&nbsp; Wyatt finished his career with 57 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, a pair of pass breakups and a blocked kick. Wyatt was a three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree.&nbsp; He earned his bachelor's degree in communications from Northwestern in 2018 and his masters in management studies from the Kellogg School of Management in 2019. After graduation, Wyatt played professionally in Japan before joining the Kansas State staff. Wyatt replaces Scorpio Horn, who stepped down as defensive line coach earlier this month to be the first head coach of the football program at KIPP KC school. Missouri Western will kick off its 2021 season on Thursday, September 2 at Central Oklahoma. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. inside Wantland Stadium.

The Griffons' full 2021 schedule <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/ffaba15f-ad1f-45db-9a8a-2bb53789a8f5">can be viewed here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623355275147.jpeg" alt="Fred Wyatt. Courtesy K-State athletics." />
 <figcaption>Fred Wyatt. Courtesy K-State athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph PostMissouri Western head football coach&nbsp;Matt Williamson announced the hiring of&nbsp;Fred Wyatt&nbsp;as the Griffons new defensive line coach Thursday. Wyatt comes to MWSU from Kansas State, where he was a defensive graduate assistant for the last two seasons. "It was an extensive search, but we found our guy," said Coach Williamson in a release. "Coach Wyatt is a bright, young coach who has tremendous knowledge of the game.&nbsp; He played at a high level and has learned under great coaches.&nbsp; He's a first-class individual who will be a great defensive line coach and will make our program better.&nbsp; This is a huge win for Griffon football and I can't wait to get him connected with our team!" Wyatt worked with the Wildcats' defensive backs alongside his father Buddy, who has spent 31 years as a defensive line coach in the Big 12, SEC, Big Ten and the AAC. "I am thankful for the opportunity that Coach Williamson and Coach Richter have given me as the new Defensive Line coach here at Missouri Western," Coach Wyatt said. "I'm excited to get to work with a great staff at a great university. And I'm looking forward to working with the young men on the Defensive Line and helping them succeed not only on the field but off it as well." Wyatt played collegiately at Northwestern University, playing defensive tackle for coach Pat Fitzgerald.&nbsp; He appeared in 40 games during his career, including 10 starts as a senior in 2018.Wyatt helped the Wildcats win the Big Ten West title that season and he capped off his career with a win over No. 17 Utah in the Holiday Bowl.&nbsp; He had 28 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss as a senior.&nbsp; Wyatt finished his career with 57 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, a pair of pass breakups and a blocked kick. Wyatt was a three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree.&nbsp; He earned his bachelor's degree in communications from Northwestern in 2018 and his masters in management studies from the Kellogg School of Management in 2019. After graduation, Wyatt played professionally in Japan before joining the Kansas State staff. Wyatt replaces Scorpio Horn, who stepped down as defensive line coach earlier this month to be the first head coach of the football program at KIPP KC school. Missouri Western will kick off its 2021 season on Thursday, September 2 at Central Oklahoma. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. inside Wantland Stadium.The Griffons' full 2021 schedule <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/ffaba15f-ad1f-45db-9a8a-2bb53789a8f5">can be viewed here</a>.

Missouri Western football hires Fred Wyatt as new defensive line coach

The all-city St. Joseph baseball players were unveiled Wednesday.

From Benton, Max Haywood, Jackson Kanacsky, Korbin Lamb-Bodde and Carson Schmidt made it.

Bishop LeBlond’s Chris Guldan, Jake Korell and Alex Libel are honorees. As are Central’s Connor Bell, Matt Caudill, Josh Eivens and Logan Miller.

 From Lafayette, Chance Herie, Dayne Koch, Zach Langley, Jayden Little and Brayden Luikart made the all-city team.

Caleb Carlson and Camden Lutz meanwhile represent St. Joseph Christian.

Lafayette finished 20-8 this past season and placed 3rd at state in Class 4. LeBlond ended as district runners-up after falling in a close district championship game to eventual Class 2 state runner-up East Buchanan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623324879078.jpeg" alt="Chris Guldan. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Chris Guldan. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe all-city St. Joseph baseball players were unveiled Wednesday.From Benton, Max Haywood, Jackson Kanacsky, Korbin Lamb-Bodde and Carson Schmidt made it.Bishop LeBlond’s Chris Guldan, Jake Korell and Alex Libel are honorees. As are Central’s Connor Bell, Matt Caudill, Josh Eivens and Logan Miller. From Lafayette, Chance Herie, Dayne Koch, Zach Langley, Jayden Little and Brayden Luikart made the all-city team.Caleb Carlson and Camden Lutz meanwhile represent St. Joseph Christian.Lafayette finished 20-8 this past season and placed 3rd at state in Class 4. LeBlond ended as district runners-up after falling in a close district championship game to eventual Class 2 state runner-up East Buchanan.

St. Joseph all-city baseball honorees released Wednesday

The Missouri Western volleyball team will play a 28-match regular season this fall. The Griffons unveiled their 2021 schedule Tuesday.

This will be the first fall schedule for Missouri Western volleyball since 2019. The 2020 season was canceled due to COVID-19. 

The Griffons and the MIAA had an abbreviated spring schedule in 2021. MWSU finished 8-11 and made the quarterfinals of the MIAA Tournament. Missouri Western will begin its season with two tournaments where they play eight non-conference matches - four of which will come against teams they've never played before.

MWSU opens at the Missouri S&amp;T Tournament in Rolla and they square off against Purdue Northwest for the first time ever on Friday, September 3.&nbsp; They also play Arkansas-Monticello, Upper Iowa and Missouri S&amp;T in the opening tournament. Missouri Western will then travel to Owensboro, Kentucky for the Kentucky Wesleyan Tournament.&nbsp; They play two first-time opponents in Maryville and Lee on Friday, September 10 and then they square off against Montevallo and West Virginia State on Saturday, September 11.&nbsp;&nbsp; The final 20 matches for Missouri Western will all be MIAA contests. They open&nbsp; conference play on the road in Warrensburg against Central Missouri on Tuesday, September 14.&nbsp; The Griffons' home opener will be the following Saturday as they play Northwest Missouri State on September 18 inside the MWSU Fieldhouse. The regular season will conclude at Emporia State on Saturday, November 13 and the MIAA Tournament will begin on Tuesday, November 16. The full schedule <a href="https://gogriffons.com/sports/womens-volleyball/schedule">can be viewed here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623186965315.jpeg" alt="Courtesy GoGriffons.com." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy GoGriffons.com.</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The Missouri Western volleyball team will play a 28-match regular season this fall. The Griffons unveiled their 2021 schedule Tuesday.This will be the first fall schedule for Missouri Western volleyball since 2019. The 2020 season was canceled due to COVID-19. The Griffons and the MIAA had an abbreviated spring schedule in 2021. MWSU finished 8-11 and made the quarterfinals of the MIAA Tournament. Missouri Western will begin its season with two tournaments where they play eight non-conference matches - four of which will come against teams they've never played before. MWSU opens at the Missouri S&amp;T Tournament in Rolla and they square off against Purdue Northwest for the first time ever on Friday, September 3.&nbsp; They also play Arkansas-Monticello, Upper Iowa and Missouri S&amp;T in the opening tournament. Missouri Western will then travel to Owensboro, Kentucky for the Kentucky Wesleyan Tournament.&nbsp; They play two first-time opponents in Maryville and Lee on Friday, September 10 and then they square off against Montevallo and West Virginia State on Saturday, September 11.&nbsp;&nbsp; The final 20 matches for Missouri Western will all be MIAA contests. They open&nbsp; conference play on the road in Warrensburg against Central Missouri on Tuesday, September 14.&nbsp; The Griffons' home opener will be the following Saturday as they play Northwest Missouri State on September 18 inside the MWSU Fieldhouse. The regular season will conclude at Emporia State on Saturday, November 13 and the MIAA Tournament will begin on Tuesday, November 16. The full schedule <a href="https://gogriffons.com/sports/womens-volleyball/schedule">can be viewed here</a>.

Missouri Western volleyball releases 2021 schedule

The St. Joseph Mustangs snapped a three-game losing skid with an 8-5 win at the Joplin Renegades Monday night.

St. Joseph native and Lafayette graduate Ike Book hit a two-run RBI double in the victory, as the Mustangs got their first road victory of the season and improve to 2-3 overall.

Mid-Buchanan alum Brady Holden also scored a key insurance run on a wild pitch in the top of the 9th.

The Mustangs have the next two days off before returning home on Thursday to face the Kansas City Monarchs. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

St. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs snapped a three-game losing skid with an 8-5 win at the Joplin Renegades Monday night.St. Joseph native and Lafayette graduate Ike Book hit a two-run RBI double in the victory, as the Mustangs got their first road victory of the season and improve to 2-3 overall.Mid-Buchanan alum Brady Holden also scored a key insurance run on a wild pitch in the top of the 9th.The Mustangs have the next two days off before returning home on Thursday to face the Kansas City Monarchs. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

Mustangs snap losing skid, win first road game Monday

Missouri's annual Show-Me State Games is ready to make a strong comeback this summer after being forced to cancel last year.

The Show-Me State Games, for years, has partnered with Shelter Insurance to put on the 'Shelter Insurance Torch Run,' a traveling event that makes its way through multiple Missouri cities, promoting the annual state games.

That Torch Run made its final stop in St. Joseph Monday.

State games officials, along with representatives from the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau, Parks and Recreation and several community members gathered at Bartlett Park for a brief torch lighting ceremony and then a quick run around the park with the torch.

Dave Fox, the Show-Me State Games executive director, says the torch lighting ceremony is always a must before the annual games get started.

"That's one thing if you go back to the very early days of the Olympics, there's one common thing and that's a torch," Fox said. "We are an Olympic-style sports festival and I think that's a common denominator between the Olympics many years ago and where we are today."

This marks the 37th year of the Show-Me State Games, which get started June 10-13 in Columbia with the Senior State Games.

The events resume with Week 1 of the state games July 16-18 and Week 2 July 23-25 - also in Columbia.

Needless to say, organizers are excited to be back and hold the in-person event again this year.

"This is the year," said Anna Hargis, a member of the Show-Me State Torch Running Committee. "Let's do this. Let's get back together. Let's hang some medals around some kids' and some seniors' necks as well."

Hargis is also the director of advertising for Shelter Insurance - one of the original sponsors of the state games. Before St. Joseph, she had traveled with the Torch Run Committee over the last few days to St. Louis, Cape Girardeau, Springfield, Joplin, Kansas City and other places.

"I love traveling the state," she said. "St. Joseph is beautiful. What a fun place to visit and to learn about the people here and to come encourage them to compete in the games."

Missourians can register for the games at <a href="https://smsg.org/">smsg.org</a>. They have more than 40 sports to pick from. From pickle ball to powerlifting. From football to fencing.

"We think we have something for everyone," Fox said. "I don't care what your ability or age is, or how good you are at something. We're about getting engaged in an active, healthy lifestyle. We're very fortunate we offer a statewide opportunity to showcase that."

Missouri has seen anywhere from 35,000-40,000 participants at the state games in the past.

While the Show-Me State Games is a statewide event, Fox says St. Joseph legend and former State Games executive director Gary Filbert had a huge influence on the games.

A graduate of Benton, Filbert was Missouri Western's first men's basketball coach and helped form the Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association.

"He has everything with me being here today," Fox said of Filbert. "There's a definitely a connection a long way back. But, we are truly a statewide organization. We'll get participation from all four corners of the state."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623111734776.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph community members ran a lap around Bartlett Park Monday with the Show-Me State&nbsp; State Games ceremonial torch in hand. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph community members ran a lap around Bartlett Park Monday with the Show-Me State&nbsp; State Games ceremonial torch in hand. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri's annual Show-Me State Games is ready to make a strong comeback this summer after being forced to cancel last year.The Show-Me State Games, for years, has partnered with Shelter Insurance to put on the 'Shelter Insurance Torch Run,' a traveling event that makes its way through multiple Missouri cities, promoting the annual state games.That Torch Run made its final stop in St. Joseph Monday.State games officials, along with representatives from the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau, Parks and Recreation and several community members gathered at Bartlett Park for a brief torch lighting ceremony and then a quick run around the park with the torch.Dave Fox, the Show-Me State Games executive director, says the torch lighting ceremony is always a must before the annual games get started."That's one thing if you go back to the very early days of the Olympics, there's one common thing and that's a torch," Fox said. "We are an Olympic-style sports festival and I think that's a common denominator between the Olympics many years ago and where we are today."This marks the 37th year of the Show-Me State Games, which get started June 10-13 in Columbia with the Senior State Games.The events resume with Week 1 of the state games July 16-18 and Week 2 July 23-25 - also in Columbia.Needless to say, organizers are excited to be back and hold the in-person event again this year."This is the year," said Anna Hargis, a member of the Show-Me State Torch Running Committee. "Let's do this. Let's get back together. Let's hang some medals around some kids' and some seniors' necks as well."Hargis is also the director of advertising for Shelter Insurance - one of the original sponsors of the state games. Before St. Joseph, she had traveled with the Torch Run Committee over the last few days to St. Louis, Cape Girardeau, Springfield, Joplin, Kansas City and other places."I love traveling the state," she said. "St. Joseph is beautiful. What a fun place to visit and to learn about the people here and to come encourage them to compete in the games."Missourians can register for the games at <a href="https://smsg.org/">smsg.org</a>. They have more than 40 sports to pick from. From pickle ball to powerlifting. From football to fencing."We think we have something for everyone," Fox said. "I don't care what your ability or age is, or how good you are at something. We're about getting engaged in an active, healthy lifestyle. We're very fortunate we offer a statewide opportunity to showcase that."Missouri has seen anywhere from 35,000-40,000 participants at the state games in the past.While the Show-Me State Games is a statewide event, Fox says St. Joseph legend and former State Games executive director Gary Filbert had a huge influence on the games.A graduate of Benton, Filbert was Missouri Western's first men's basketball coach and helped form the Missouri Basketball Coaches' Association."He has everything with me being here today," Fox said of Filbert. "There's a definitely a connection a long way back. But, we are truly a statewide organization. We'll get participation from all four corners of the state."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post at @StJosephPost.

Show-Me State Games concludes annual Torch Run tour in St. Joseph Monday

The Midland Empire Conference announced its list of all-conference baseball honorees Monday.

St. Pius X, champions of Class 3, boasted six first-team selections. Class 4 third place finisher Lafayette had two first-team and three second-team picks.

The Warriors were the 2021 MEC Champions with a perfect conference record of 7-0.

1st Team Pitchers Brayden Luikart – Lafayette (Unanimous) Karter Muck – St. Pius X Ty Hilsabeck – Savannah

1st Team Infielders Jack Mosh – St. Pius X (Unanimous) Jayden Little - Lafayette Chase Wilcox – St. Pius X Cooper Loe - Maryville Carson Schmidt - Benton

1st Team Outfielders&nbsp; Max Haywood – Benton Connor Weiss – Maryville John Caime – St. Pius X Caleb McClellan – St. Pius X

1st Team Catcher&nbsp; Luke Feucht – St. Pius X (Unanimous)&nbsp;&nbsp;

2nd Team Pitchers&nbsp; Mason Baxter – Chillicothe Korbin Lamb-Bodde – Benton Ryan Hamann – St. Pius X

2nd Team Infielders Luke Presko – St. Pius X Dayne Koch - Lafayette Thomas Janning – St. Pius X Chris Guldan – Bishop LeBlond &nbsp;Ian Riley - Cameron

2nd team Outfielders Grant Hennen – St. Pius X Heisman LaFave – Savannah Xavion Page - Lafayette Zach Langley – Lafayette&nbsp;&nbsp;

2nd Team Catcher&nbsp; Brock Ward – Chillicothe&nbsp; &nbsp;

Honorable Mention Pitchers&nbsp; T.J. Best – Cameron&nbsp; Trey Houchin – Maryville

Honorable Mention Infielders Truman Bodenhausen – Savannah Kobe Jones - Lafayette Brycen Bennett - Cameron Wyatt Jackson - Savannah Landon Winder – Chillicothe Alex Libel – Bishop LeBlond Connor Drake - Maryville Adam Patton - Maryville Graden Hammond - Cameron Preston Bowers - Lafayette Gage Leamer - Chillicothe

Honorable Mention Outfielders Quinton Redemer – Benton Caleb Kreizinger – Maryville Jake Korell – Bishop LeBlond Ethan Dennis – Savannah Bradeyn Dawson – Bishop LeBlond Landon Gardner – Bishop LeBlond&nbsp;&nbsp;

Honorable Mention Catchers&nbsp; Chance Herie – Lafayette&nbsp; Jackson Kanacsky – Benton&nbsp; Ethan Dudeck – Savannah

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

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Midland Empire Conference announced its list of all-conference baseball honorees Monday.St. Pius X, champions of Class 3, boasted six first-team selections. Class 4 third place finisher Lafayette had two first-team and three second-team picks.The Warriors were the 2021 MEC Champions with a perfect conference record of 7-0.1st Team Pitchers Brayden Luikart – Lafayette (Unanimous) Karter Muck – St. Pius X Ty Hilsabeck – Savannah 1st Team Infielders Jack Mosh – St. Pius X (Unanimous) Jayden Little - Lafayette Chase Wilcox – St. Pius X Cooper Loe - Maryville Carson Schmidt - Benton1st Team Outfielders&nbsp; Max Haywood – Benton Connor Weiss – Maryville John Caime – St. Pius X Caleb McClellan – St. Pius X1st Team Catcher&nbsp; Luke Feucht – St. Pius X (Unanimous)&nbsp;&nbsp;2nd Team Pitchers&nbsp; Mason Baxter – Chillicothe Korbin Lamb-Bodde – Benton Ryan Hamann – St. Pius X 2nd Team Infielders Luke Presko – St. Pius X Dayne Koch - Lafayette Thomas Janning – St. Pius X Chris Guldan – Bishop LeBlond &nbsp;Ian Riley - Cameron2nd team Outfielders Grant Hennen – St. Pius X Heisman LaFave – Savannah Xavion Page - Lafayette Zach Langley – Lafayette&nbsp;&nbsp;2nd Team Catcher&nbsp; Brock Ward – Chillicothe&nbsp; &nbsp;Honorable Mention Pitchers&nbsp; T.J. Best – Cameron&nbsp; Trey Houchin – MaryvilleHonorable Mention Infielders Truman Bodenhausen – Savannah Kobe Jones - Lafayette Brycen Bennett - Cameron Wyatt Jackson - Savannah Landon Winder – Chillicothe Alex Libel – Bishop LeBlond Connor Drake - Maryville Adam Patton - Maryville Graden Hammond - Cameron Preston Bowers - Lafayette Gage Leamer - ChillicotheHonorable Mention Outfielders Quinton Redemer – Benton Caleb Kreizinger – Maryville Jake Korell – Bishop LeBlond Ethan Dennis – Savannah Bradeyn Dawson – Bishop LeBlond Landon Gardner – Bishop LeBlond&nbsp;&nbsp;Honorable Mention Catchers&nbsp; Chance Herie – Lafayette&nbsp; Jackson Kanacsky – Benton&nbsp; Ethan Dudeck – SavannahYou can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MEC announces all-conference baseball honorees for 2021 season

OZARK - Lafayette has had a mantra they've run with since the middle of the season - win the last game. Whatever that meant. Whatever it took.

The Irish (20-8) did that on Thursday with gusto, taking down Hollister 12-2 in five innings to win the Class 4 third place game at US Baseball Park in Ozark.

Lafayette grabbed an 8-0 lead by the end of the second inning and never looked back.

"When we scored those seven runs in that second inning, I was like, 'This game is ours,'" said senior Zach Langley, who got the win a complete game effort on the mound, striking out two and allowing only four hits.

After watching Kennett hit a three-run homer off of him the day before in the semifinal, Langley says Thursday's game was a refreshing end to an all around memorable season.

"Adrenaline, happiness, excitement all in my body is so surreal," he said. "Coming out in this game, there's a lot we were anticipated to do. We said after last night, 'We have to wipe it. We have to come ready to play today.' So, coming out with a W shows how hard we had to fight this year."

Langley is one of six seniors who played their final game in an Irish uniform Thursday. It's a class that has left its mark on this season, and on their high school's history, helping to bring Lafayette baseball its first Final Four berth and now its first win in a Final Four game.

"We've stuck to this motto 'win the last game' since the middle of the season," said senior Jayden Little, who went 3-for-4 with a run scored and an RBI. "We've really been playing like that. We came out yesterday, thought we had it and it slipped away from us toward the end. We went back last night, put our heads on straight and said, 'That is not how we want to go out. We can't go out like that.'"

The Irish gave themselves an early cushion, scoring seven runs on eight hits in the second inning, highlighted by senior Dayne Koch's base-clearing, three-run RBI double to left. Koch went 3-for-3 with two runs scored.

In all, eight Irish got a hit and eight Irish scored, as Lafayette outhit the Tigers 14-4.

"It really helped," Little said of the fast start. "One through nine today, we were really solid. No one was missing. Everyone was spraying the field all over, and it put all of the pressure on them. We felt as if we had no pressure today. Just come in, have fun, play the best to your ability and we know if we do that, we can hang with anybody in the state."

Leading 8-2 entering the bottom of the fifth, Langley, Koch and senior Chance Herie all doubled to get the scoring started in that frame. With bases loaded and one out, junior Xavion Page hit a pop fly to left deep enough for Koch to score from third and end the game via mercy rule.

Head coach Matt Jansen and the staff say goodbye to six seniors - all of whom were starters. But, three junior starters - Page, Cade King and Kobe Jones - all return next year, along with three freshmen and two sophomores.

The 2021 team has set the bar high for the future of Lafayette baseball, and Jansen, who just wrapped up his first season as head coach, is excited to see how it transpires.

"The seniors set the foundation for the next class," said Jansen. "Not only are they talented, but they showed them how to work and how to do things and kind of set them up for the future. I'm proud of them, and am excited for the future and beyond for sure."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622771810026.jpeg" alt="The Lafayette senior class, from left to right - Preston Bowers, Jayden Little, Brayden Luikart, Chance Herie, Zach Langley and Dayne Koch hold the third place trophy after beating Hollister 12-2. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The Lafayette senior class, from left to right - Preston Bowers, Jayden Little, Brayden Luikart, Chance Herie, Zach Langley and Dayne Koch hold the third place trophy after beating Hollister 12-2. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostOZARK - Lafayette has had a mantra they've run with since the middle of the season - win the last game. Whatever that meant. Whatever it took.The Irish (20-8) did that on Thursday with gusto, taking down Hollister 12-2 in five innings to win the Class 4 third place game at US Baseball Park in Ozark.Lafayette grabbed an 8-0 lead by the end of the second inning and never looked back."When we scored those seven runs in that second inning, I was like, 'This game is ours,'" said senior Zach Langley, who got the win a complete game effort on the mound, striking out two and allowing only four hits.After watching Kennett hit a three-run homer off of him the day before in the semifinal, Langley says Thursday's game was a refreshing end to an all around memorable season."Adrenaline, happiness, excitement all in my body is so surreal," he said. "Coming out in this game, there's a lot we were anticipated to do. We said after last night, 'We have to wipe it. We have to come ready to play today.' So, coming out with a W shows how hard we had to fight this year."Langley is one of six seniors who played their final game in an Irish uniform Thursday. It's a class that has left its mark on this season, and on their high school's history, helping to bring Lafayette baseball its first Final Four berth and now its first win in a Final Four game."We've stuck to this motto 'win the last game' since the middle of the season," said senior Jayden Little, who went 3-for-4 with a run scored and an RBI. "We've really been playing like that. We came out yesterday, thought we had it and it slipped away from us toward the end. We went back last night, put our heads on straight and said, 'That is not how we want to go out. We can't go out like that.'"The Irish gave themselves an early cushion, scoring seven runs on eight hits in the second inning, highlighted by senior Dayne Koch's base-clearing, three-run RBI double to left. Koch went 3-for-3 with two runs scored.In all, eight Irish got a hit and eight Irish scored, as Lafayette outhit the Tigers 14-4."It really helped," Little said of the fast start. "One through nine today, we were really solid. No one was missing. Everyone was spraying the field all over, and it put all of the pressure on them. We felt as if we had no pressure today. Just come in, have fun, play the best to your ability and we know if we do that, we can hang with anybody in the state."Leading 8-2 entering the bottom of the fifth, Langley, Koch and senior Chance Herie all doubled to get the scoring started in that frame. With bases loaded and one out, junior Xavion Page hit a pop fly to left deep enough for Koch to score from third and end the game via mercy rule.Head coach Matt Jansen and the staff say goodbye to six seniors - all of whom were starters. But, three junior starters - Page, Cade King and Kobe Jones - all return next year, along with three freshmen and two sophomores.The 2021 team has set the bar high for the future of Lafayette baseball, and Jansen, who just wrapped up his first season as head coach, is excited to see how it transpires."The seniors set the foundation for the next class," said Jansen. "Not only are they talented, but they showed them how to work and how to do things and kind of set them up for the future. I'm proud of them, and am excited for the future and beyond for sure."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622771842196.jpeg" alt="Zach Langley." />
 <figcaption>Zach Langley.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622771895855.jpeg" alt="Kobe Jones connects in the third inning. The junior went 2-for-3 with a run scored Thursday." />
 <figcaption>Kobe Jones connects in the third inning. The junior went 2-for-3 with a run scored Thursday.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FLHSIrish%2Fposts%2F3012832209042950&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="722" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Lafayette wins big in Class 4 third place game in Ozark Thursday

It had been nearly two years since the St. Joseph Mustangs had welcomed fans to Phil Welch Stadium.

The Mustangs opened the season Wednesday by hosting the Des Moines Peak Prospects.&nbsp;

Playing in front of more than 3,000 fans, the Mustangs walked off the Prospects in the 10th inning, 5-4, on an infield single from Mid-Buchanan alum Brady Holden, which scored Savannah alum Dakota Spicer.

Starting pitcher and former West Platte Blue Jay Mack Stephenson was named Player of the Game, recording eight strikeouts, and allowing only four hits and three walks in the 10-inning thriller. 

The Mustangs celebrated the season-opener with a firework show at the conclusion of the game. 

St. Joseph is back in action on Friday, hosting the Jefferson City Renegades at 7:00 p.m. for Professional Wrestling Night at Phil Welch Stadium. It’ll also be dollar beer night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622722040772.jpeg" alt="Courtesy St. Joe Mustangs on Twitter." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy St. Joe Mustangs on Twitter.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIt had been nearly two years since the St. Joseph Mustangs had welcomed fans to Phil Welch Stadium.The Mustangs opened the season Wednesday by hosting the Des Moines Peak Prospects.&nbsp;Playing in front of more than 3,000 fans, the Mustangs walked off the Prospects in the 10th inning, 5-4, on an infield single from Mid-Buchanan alum Brady Holden, which scored Savannah alum Dakota Spicer.Starting pitcher and former West Platte Blue Jay Mack Stephenson was named Player of the Game, recording eight strikeouts, and allowing only four hits and three walks in the 10-inning thriller. The Mustangs celebrated the season-opener with a firework show at the conclusion of the game. St. Joseph is back in action on Friday, hosting the Jefferson City Renegades at 7:00 p.m. for Professional Wrestling Night at Phil Welch Stadium. It’ll also be dollar beer night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">The Mustangs starting lineup has been introduced and the home team has taken the field.... We know what that means! For the first time in 2021, Play Ball! <a href="https://t.co/V1C5ErdfbG">pic.twitter.com/V1C5ErdfbG</a>&mdash; St. Joseph Mustangs (@StJoeMustangs) <a href="https://twitter.com/StJoeMustangs/status/1400243742418903047?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Mustangs walk off against Prospects in season-opener Wednesday

OZARK - It all seemed to be going according to plan for Lafayette.

An early lead, strong defense and a terrific start from senior pitcher Brayden Luikart.

After Luikart reached his allotted pitch total, Kennett adjusted, settled in and went to work offensively in the seventh.

In an inning that lasted for 14 at-bats, the Indians (25-8) tallied nine runs on five walks, four hits, including a pair of three-run homers and a pair of hit batters.

The big inning allowed Kennett to erase a 4-2 deficit and defeat Lafayette 11-4 Wednesday in a Class 4 state semifinal game at US Baseball Park in Ozark.

After Luikart left the game due to pitch count, four different relievers tried to end the top of the seventh. Junior Cade King forced a flyout and a 6-4 double play with bases loaded to record the three outs and end what was a painfully long frame.

A tough half-inning, that was preceded by six solid innings from the Irish.

"We executed the game plan early," Lafayette coach Matt Jansen said. "Brayden was lights out. The defense had 'em. The energy was up. That's all you can ask for. I mean, obviously you want to close the game, but coming out, scoring runs early, putting pressure on them. And again, we're able to come back and get momentum. It speaks to the type of character we have. We have high character."

Luikart came out with his hair on fire, striking out the side in the top half of the first. Senior Dayne Koch led off the bottom half of the first with a walk, and he was brought home on an RBI single to right field by fellow senior Jayden Little, giving the Irish a 1-0 lead after one.

After another Luikart strikeout left two Kennett runners stranded in the second, Cade King led off the bottom half by getting hit by a pitch, and he scored on an RBI single to center by Koch, putting the Irish ahead 2-0.

During the second inning, Kennett pulled starting pitcher and senior Payton Heinley and junior Reese Robinett came in relief.

An Arkansas commit, Robinett set the Irish down in order in both the third and fourth innings.

Luikart was equally as impressive in that time, striking out the side in the third, and retiring the Indians in four at-bats in the fourth.

Kennett had only four base runners total through the first four innings.

Luikart finished with nine strikeouts, five walks, two hit batters and only two hits allowed.

The Indians got on the board and tied the game in the top of the fifth. An RBI single by Nicholas Gates and a sac fly by Tanner Pierce tied it at two runs apiece.

The Irish (19-8) responded, plating two runs in the home half of the fifth to reclaim a 4-2 lead. Luikart led off with a single, and Little brought him home on an RBI double.

Freshman Drake Losson pinch ran for Little, and he came around to score on an RBI double by junior Kobe Jones.

After a scoreless sixth inning by both teams, Luikart walked his first batter faced in the seventh, and reached his pitch count by that point.

Luikart was relieved by senior Zach Langley, who walked his first batter faced and then watched Robinett blast a three-run homer down the right field line to give Kennett its first lead at 5-4.

"Pitch count was a factor," Jansen said. "Obviously, we had to take Brayden out at that point. At the end of the day, that's baseball. A few things here and there. We could've scored more runs earlier to give ourselves more cushion. Zach Langley coming in, I would do that move 10 times out of 10 again. He's a great human being and I'm so proud of him."

After Langley left the game, Kennett notched a two-run RBI single and another three-run homer off of relievers Davin Guess and Levi Scheerer to extend their lead.

Robinett, who got the win on the mound in 5.1 innings of relief, retired the Irish in four at-bats in the bottom of the seventh, sending Lafayette to the Class 4 third place game on Thursday afternoon at 4 p.m.

The Irish will face Hollister (25-6), who lost to Blair Oaks 3-2 Wednesday.

Lafayette may not be coming home with the top prize, but Jansen and the team realize they have something to play for Thursday and have plenty to be happy about this season.

"Beautiful thing about baseball is you get to play tomorrow," Jansen said. "It's a new day. At this point, it doesn't matter what happened today. We need to figure out what we need to fix, and we'll start preparing for whoever we get to play tomorrow.

"Really the big thing is us responding, collecting ourselves and coming out tomorrow with a purpose to get third place."

**You can hear Thursday's third place game live on 680 AM and 95.3 FM KFEQ Radio. The audio stream will also be available at 680kfeq.com.**

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622686596792.jpeg" alt="Lafayette's Brayden Luikart (bottom) struck out nine in six innings pitched in Wednesday's Class 4 state semifinal. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Lafayette's Brayden Luikart (bottom) struck out nine in six innings pitched in Wednesday's Class 4 state semifinal. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostOZARK - It all seemed to be going according to plan for Lafayette.An early lead, strong defense and a terrific start from senior pitcher Brayden Luikart.After Luikart reached his allotted pitch total, Kennett adjusted, settled in and went to work offensively in the seventh.In an inning that lasted for 14 at-bats, the Indians (25-8) tallied nine runs on five walks, four hits, including a pair of three-run homers and a pair of hit batters.The big inning allowed Kennett to erase a 4-2 deficit and defeat Lafayette 11-4 Wednesday in a Class 4 state semifinal game at US Baseball Park in Ozark.After Luikart left the game due to pitch count, four different relievers tried to end the top of the seventh. Junior Cade King forced a flyout and a 6-4 double play with bases loaded to record the three outs and end what was a painfully long frame.A tough half-inning, that was preceded by six solid innings from the Irish."We executed the game plan early," Lafayette coach Matt Jansen said. "Brayden was lights out. The defense had 'em. The energy was up. That's all you can ask for. I mean, obviously you want to close the game, but coming out, scoring runs early, putting pressure on them. And again, we're able to come back and get momentum. It speaks to the type of character we have. We have high character."Luikart came out with his hair on fire, striking out the side in the top half of the first. Senior Dayne Koch led off the bottom half of the first with a walk, and he was brought home on an RBI single to right field by fellow senior Jayden Little, giving the Irish a 1-0 lead after one.After another Luikart strikeout left two Kennett runners stranded in the second, Cade King led off the bottom half by getting hit by a pitch, and he scored on an RBI single to center by Koch, putting the Irish ahead 2-0.During the second inning, Kennett pulled starting pitcher and senior Payton Heinley and junior Reese Robinett came in relief.An Arkansas commit, Robinett set the Irish down in order in both the third and fourth innings.Luikart was equally as impressive in that time, striking out the side in the third, and retiring the Indians in four at-bats in the fourth.Kennett had only four base runners total through the first four innings.Luikart finished with nine strikeouts, five walks, two hit batters and only two hits allowed.The Indians got on the board and tied the game in the top of the fifth. An RBI single by Nicholas Gates and a sac fly by Tanner Pierce tied it at two runs apiece.The Irish (19-8) responded, plating two runs in the home half of the fifth to reclaim a 4-2 lead. Luikart led off with a single, and Little brought him home on an RBI double.Freshman Drake Losson pinch ran for Little, and he came around to score on an RBI double by junior Kobe Jones.After a scoreless sixth inning by both teams, Luikart walked his first batter faced in the seventh, and reached his pitch count by that point.Luikart was relieved by senior Zach Langley, who walked his first batter faced and then watched Robinett blast a three-run homer down the right field line to give Kennett its first lead at 5-4."Pitch count was a factor," Jansen said. "Obviously, we had to take Brayden out at that point. At the end of the day, that's baseball. A few things here and there. We could've scored more runs earlier to give ourselves more cushion. Zach Langley coming in, I would do that move 10 times out of 10 again. He's a great human being and I'm so proud of him."After Langley left the game, Kennett notched a two-run RBI single and another three-run homer off of relievers Davin Guess and Levi Scheerer to extend their lead.Robinett, who got the win on the mound in 5.1 innings of relief, retired the Irish in four at-bats in the bottom of the seventh, sending Lafayette to the Class 4 third place game on Thursday afternoon at 4 p.m.The Irish will face Hollister (25-6), who lost to Blair Oaks 3-2 Wednesday.Lafayette may not be coming home with the top prize, but Jansen and the team realize they have something to play for Thursday and have plenty to be happy about this season."Beautiful thing about baseball is you get to play tomorrow," Jansen said. "It's a new day. At this point, it doesn't matter what happened today. We need to figure out what we need to fix, and we'll start preparing for whoever we get to play tomorrow."Really the big thing is us responding, collecting ourselves and coming out tomorrow with a purpose to get third place."**You can hear Thursday's third place game live on 680 AM and 95.3 FM KFEQ Radio. The audio stream will also be available at 680kfeq.com.**You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Kennett plates nine runs in the seventh, Lafayette falls after solid start in semifinal

For the first time in nearly two years, there will be St. Joseph Mustangs baseball inside Phil Welch Stadium today.

The Mustangs' open its 44-game regular season schedule with a home game against the newest member of the MINK League - the Des Moines Peak Prospects. First pitch is set for 7 p.m., kicking off the 12th season of Mustangs' baseball.

Wednesday's contest will be the first of 24 home games this summer in St. Joseph. Mustangs owner Dan Gerson admits that the cancelled 2020 season was difficult for many different reasons.

"It was tough," he said. "I always get excited about a summer at Phil Welch, and I know how excited St. Joe gets, and it's really hard. I own some restaurants and it was just tough on everybody."

With 673 days since the last game, Mustangs staff and ownership have had ample time to get ready for 2021 and make it the best season yet.

"It allowed us to reflect and kind of improve some things and switch some things around," said general manager Ky Turner. "We're excited. It certainly helped build that momentum and it certainly helped change our perspective. If we hadn't gone through what we did, I don't know if we could get to where we are right now."

Any tickets that were sold for the 2020 season could either be refunded or held over for 2021. Turner says ticket and ad sales have helped soften the blow of the financial hardship brought on by the pandemic.

After such a long wait, Turner is hopeful that he and his staff of interns will give fans a terrific experience.

"We prepare for this as soon as that last out is recorded," Turner said. "And really, before that. But, now you can really see it come to life. So, you have to make sure everything is how you envision it and that it feels right and that it's great for the guest that comes in here."

Gerson has owned the Mustangs since their inaugural season in 2009. He says getting fans back in the stands is the top priority this summer. He also thanks them for their years of continued support.

"It's going to be a great summer," he said. "We're going to have so many things going on. But, the main thing is getting people back out to Phil Welch to see a Mustangs game.

"I have always been just amazed and so grateful for the fans' support and how much in the fabric of St. Joe we are considered to be every summer."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622565534641.jpeg" alt="The Mustang flags are back up at Phil Welch Stadium ,as another season of Mustangs baseball gets underway at Phil Welch Stadium tonight. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The Mustang flags are back up at Phil Welch Stadium ,as another season of Mustangs baseball gets underway at Phil Welch Stadium tonight. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFor the first time in nearly two years, there will be St. Joseph Mustangs baseball inside Phil Welch Stadium today.The Mustangs' open its 44-game regular season schedule with a home game against the newest member of the MINK League - the Des Moines Peak Prospects. First pitch is set for 7 p.m., kicking off the 12th season of Mustangs' baseball.Wednesday's contest will be the first of 24 home games this summer in St. Joseph. Mustangs owner Dan Gerson admits that the cancelled 2020 season was difficult for many different reasons."It was tough," he said. "I always get excited about a summer at Phil Welch, and I know how excited St. Joe gets, and it's really hard. I own some restaurants and it was just tough on everybody."With 673 days since the last game, Mustangs staff and ownership have had ample time to get ready for 2021 and make it the best season yet."It allowed us to reflect and kind of improve some things and switch some things around," said general manager Ky Turner. "We're excited. It certainly helped build that momentum and it certainly helped change our perspective. If we hadn't gone through what we did, I don't know if we could get to where we are right now."Any tickets that were sold for the 2020 season could either be refunded or held over for 2021. Turner says ticket and ad sales have helped soften the blow of the financial hardship brought on by the pandemic.After such a long wait, Turner is hopeful that he and his staff of interns will give fans a terrific experience."We prepare for this as soon as that last out is recorded," Turner said. "And really, before that. But, now you can really see it come to life. So, you have to make sure everything is how you envision it and that it feels right and that it's great for the guest that comes in here."Gerson has owned the Mustangs since their inaugural season in 2009. He says getting fans back in the stands is the top priority this summer. He also thanks them for their years of continued support."It's going to be a great summer," he said. "We're going to have so many things going on. But, the main thing is getting people back out to Phil Welch to see a Mustangs game."I have always been just amazed and so grateful for the fans' support and how much in the fabric of St. Joe we are considered to be every summer."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622565615995.jpeg" alt="This large Mustangs banner hangs in the main entryway at Phil Welch Stadium. Fans will see it as they make their way in from the concourse. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>This large Mustangs banner hangs in the main entryway at Phil Welch Stadium. Fans will see it as they make their way in from the concourse. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mustangs to open 2021 season against Des Moines Peak Prospects Wednesday

OZARK - With East Buchanan and Marionville both vying for their first baseball championship in program history, it's no surprise that Tuesday's Class 2 title game was such a thriller.

It's also no surprise that such a back-and-forth game came down to the final pitch in the final inning.

Rallying from an early 6-0 deficit, Marionville (23-6) loaded the bases in the bottom of the seventh. With two outs, the Comets scored the winning run off of a wild pitch and defeated the Bulldogs 8-7 at U.S. Baseball Park in Ozark.

A gut-wrenching end to a terrific postseason run and season from East Buchanan.

"It was a great game," Bulldogs coach Dave Elms said. "Of course, it didn't end up the way we wanted it. It was the big stage, and we didn't play a clean enough baseball game. But, sometimes when you start blaming things on yourself, you're not giving enough credit to your opponents. We knew they were good hitters and that they'd score a lot of runs. We had to limit those mistakes, but unfortunately tonight, it didn't work out our way."

Things were going East Buchanan's way early on. Senior Matthew Liechti walked into bases loaded in the first inning to give the Bulldogs an early 1-0 lead.

Two walks, two errors and a hit batter allowed three more runs to score in the second. East Buchanan (18-9) then tallied two more runs off of three hits in the top of the third and led 6-0 at that point.

Marionville bit back in the bottom of the third, scoring five runs on four hits, including two-run RBI singles from Jacksen Smith and Jacob Davis.

The Comets grabbed their first lead at 7-6 in the bottom of the fifth, scoring two runs off of a walk, a hit batter, three stolen bases and two wild pitches.

Smith and Kyle Brattin both reached first base via free pass, and were both able to score from third off of wild pitches. Junior Conner Musser, who started on the mound, and sophomore Bronco Whitt, who tossed the final four innings, each threw five wild pitches in Tuesday's game.

"You throw in the rainy conditions, the high pressure, (Marionville) starts getting baserunners and the offensive threats they had up and down the lineup, it makes every pitch a big pitch," Elms said. "They capitalized on some mistakes, were well disciplined at the plate and took advantage when they could."

Facing their first deficit in the Final Four, East Buchanan responded in a big way in the top of the sixth. Musser led off the frame with a triple to deep left-center, and Liechti brought him home with a bloop single to right, tying the game at 7-7.

Marionville led off the bottom of the sixth by loading the bases with a double, single and a walk. Whitt then sat down the next three batters in a row via strikeout to retire the side and keep the tie intact.

The Bulldogs had runners on first and second with two outs in the top of the seventh, but were unable to take the lead back.

Marionville got their first two runners on in the bottom of the seventh via walk and hit-by-pitch. Smith, who was hit by the pitch, tried to steal third after reaching second, but was tagged out in the process.

With a runner already at first, junior Lake High reached second on a dropped fly ball in deep right field, and an intentional walk to junior Cale Clark loaded the bases once more.

In the next at-bat, senior Jordan Williams hit a groundball down the first base line, which was scooped up by Liechti and thrown home, where junior catcher Luke Webb tagged Wyley Brown out at home to record the second out and keep the tie intact.

But with bases still loaded, the very next pitch after the tagout at home sailed over Webb's head and all the way to the backstop, giving High plenty of time to score from third, and giving the Comets a walk-off victory and their first ever state championship in baseball.

"It wasn't one play, it wasn't one pitch," Elms said of the final play. "It really wasn't that one thing that beat us. It was a combination different things. Bronco is a sophomore in class, but is a freshman as a player without the season last year. He has a lot of room to grow. There's a lot of upside for him."

East Buchanan made it further in the postseason than many thought they would, defying expectations and rewriting program history all along the way.

It obviously stings to come within one run of the ultimate prize, and it's never fun being on the losing end of a walk-off, particularly when a championship is at stake.

But, East Buchanan can go back to Gower with their heads held high. First district title. First Final Four. First championship game appearance.

Not the ending they wanted, but a storybook season nonetheless.

"I'm very proud of the kids. No one thought we'd be in this position. And to get here and make the history that we did, I'm very proud of them. One thing I told the people coming back next year that this should be a driving force. I hope they find time to get better at this sport, and hopefully, we can make another run at it at some point in the near future."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622613890502.jpeg" alt="East Buchanan coach Dave Elms addresses his team after an 8-7 loss to Marionville in the Class 2 state championship game in Ozark Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>East Buchanan coach Dave Elms addresses his team after an 8-7 loss to Marionville in the Class 2 state championship game in Ozark Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostOZARK - With East Buchanan and Marionville both vying for their first baseball championship in program history, it's no surprise that Tuesday's Class 2 title game was such a thriller.It's also no surprise that such a back-and-forth game came down to the final pitch in the final inning.Rallying from an early 6-0 deficit, Marionville (23-6) loaded the bases in the bottom of the seventh. With two outs, the Comets scored the winning run off of a wild pitch and defeated the Bulldogs 8-7 at U.S. Baseball Park in Ozark.A gut-wrenching end to a terrific postseason run and season from East Buchanan."It was a great game," Bulldogs coach Dave Elms said. "Of course, it didn't end up the way we wanted it. It was the big stage, and we didn't play a clean enough baseball game. But, sometimes when you start blaming things on yourself, you're not giving enough credit to your opponents. We knew they were good hitters and that they'd score a lot of runs. We had to limit those mistakes, but unfortunately tonight, it didn't work out our way."Things were going East Buchanan's way early on. Senior Matthew Liechti walked into bases loaded in the first inning to give the Bulldogs an early 1-0 lead.Two walks, two errors and a hit batter allowed three more runs to score in the second. East Buchanan (18-9) then tallied two more runs off of three hits in the top of the third and led 6-0 at that point.Marionville bit back in the bottom of the third, scoring five runs on four hits, including two-run RBI singles from Jacksen Smith and Jacob Davis.The Comets grabbed their first lead at 7-6 in the bottom of the fifth, scoring two runs off of a walk, a hit batter, three stolen bases and two wild pitches.Smith and Kyle Brattin both reached first base via free pass, and were both able to score from third off of wild pitches. Junior Conner Musser, who started on the mound, and sophomore Bronco Whitt, who tossed the final four innings, each threw five wild pitches in Tuesday's game."You throw in the rainy conditions, the high pressure, (Marionville) starts getting baserunners and the offensive threats they had up and down the lineup, it makes every pitch a big pitch," Elms said. "They capitalized on some mistakes, were well disciplined at the plate and took advantage when they could."Facing their first deficit in the Final Four, East Buchanan responded in a big way in the top of the sixth. Musser led off the frame with a triple to deep left-center, and Liechti brought him home with a bloop single to right, tying the game at 7-7.Marionville led off the bottom of the sixth by loading the bases with a double, single and a walk. Whitt then sat down the next three batters in a row via strikeout to retire the side and keep the tie intact.The Bulldogs had runners on first and second with two outs in the top of the seventh, but were unable to take the lead back.Marionville got their first two runners on in the bottom of the seventh via walk and hit-by-pitch. Smith, who was hit by the pitch, tried to steal third after reaching second, but was tagged out in the process.With a runner already at first, junior Lake High reached second on a dropped fly ball in deep right field, and an intentional walk to junior Cale Clark loaded the bases once more.In the next at-bat, senior Jordan Williams hit a groundball down the first base line, which was scooped up by Liechti and thrown home, where junior catcher Luke Webb tagged Wyley Brown out at home to record the second out and keep the tie intact.But with bases still loaded, the very next pitch after the tagout at home sailed over Webb's head and all the way to the backstop, giving High plenty of time to score from third, and giving the Comets a walk-off victory and their first ever state championship in baseball."It wasn't one play, it wasn't one pitch," Elms said of the final play. "It really wasn't that one thing that beat us. It was a combination different things. Bronco is a sophomore in class, but is a freshman as a player without the season last year. He has a lot of room to grow. There's a lot of upside for him."East Buchanan made it further in the postseason than many thought they would, defying expectations and rewriting program history all along the way.It obviously stings to come within one run of the ultimate prize, and it's never fun being on the losing end of a walk-off, particularly when a championship is at stake.But, East Buchanan can go back to Gower with their heads held high. First district title. First Final Four. First championship game appearance.Not the ending they wanted, but a storybook season nonetheless."I'm very proud of the kids. No one thought we'd be in this position. And to get here and make the history that we did, I'm very proud of them. One thing I told the people coming back next year that this should be a driving force. I hope they find time to get better at this sport, and hopefully, we can make another run at it at some point in the near future."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622614266436.jpeg" alt="Bronco Whitt throws a pitch in the sixth inning of Tuesday's championship game. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Bronco Whitt throws a pitch in the sixth inning of Tuesday's championship game. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Marionville walks off, tops East Buchanan in thrilling Class 2 title game

It has been 672 days since the St. Joseph Mustangs ended the 2019 season with their seventh MINK League Championship.

After a cancelled season in 2020, the Mustangs organization is thrilled to pack Phil Welch Stadium for a 12th season this summer.

The festivities get started with Fan Fest on June 1, which gets underway at 6 p.m.&nbsp; on the eve of the season opener.

Mustangs general manager Ky Turner is thrilled to welcome fans back after a long year off.

"Last time we sold a ticket to a fan walking up to a game was late July 2019," he said. "We're just now getting ready to get a chance, almost two years later. That's tough, but some people have really helped out and sponsorship sales and season ticket sales have gone well."

Food specials, national anthem tryouts, batting practice and autographs will highlight the Fan Fest event, and admission is free.

Fans will have the chance to meet players and get autographs from the entire 2021 roster following the completion of batting practice.

<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f2749d52-d3d0-44be-8859-2be000dd46bb">The Mustangs' roster</a> features 13 players who are products of local high schools, including five from Savannah alone.

So while there's always a few new wrinkles for fans each summer, Turner says the experience will still be a familiar one.

"You'll see the heightened presence of the local players here," Turner said. "You're going to see that also on the field. There's a lot of stuff in the stands, in the concession stands but also a big part of it on the field."

Mustangs players, who started arriving last week, had their first practice Monday and open the season Wednesday against the MINK League's newest team - the Des Moines Peak Prospects. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

All school and medical staff will receive two free tickets to Wednesday's game as a way of saying thank you for all of their efforts in the last 16 or so months.

"That's a big deal to us," Turner said. "Because we know those people specifically have dealt with a lot of stuff that you normally wouldn't on top of the stuff they already do for us."

There will also be a postgame fireworks spectacular after Wednesday's game, as well as June 5, July 3, July 4, July 17 and July 24. Dollar beer nights will be back on Fridays, along with other specials.

Preparing for the season takes many months, and many different people, and preparations last right up until the first pitch.

But, after a year off, Turner and his staff want to give fans that sense of normalcy back, and give them the same fun experience they remember.

"We always walk in our guests' shoes and always try and look at it from their eyes and see how we can make it better," Turner said. "That's the other thing, too. We have a whole new intern staff that comes in here and I'm sure they're just as nervous as heck, as our players are too, getting ready to play in front of that opening crowd."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622229883248.jpeg" alt="Phil Welch Stadium will soon be packed with fans again, as the St. Joseph Mustangs start their 12th season on Wednesday." />
 <figcaption>Phil Welch Stadium will soon be packed with fans again, as the St. Joseph Mustangs start their 12th season on Wednesday.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIt has been 672 days since the St. Joseph Mustangs ended the 2019 season with their seventh MINK League Championship.After a cancelled season in 2020, the Mustangs organization is thrilled to pack Phil Welch Stadium for a 12th season this summer.The festivities get started with Fan Fest on June 1, which gets underway at 6 p.m.&nbsp; on the eve of the season opener.Mustangs general manager Ky Turner is thrilled to welcome fans back after a long year off."Last time we sold a ticket to a fan walking up to a game was late July 2019," he said. "We're just now getting ready to get a chance, almost two years later. That's tough, but some people have really helped out and sponsorship sales and season ticket sales have gone well."Food specials, national anthem tryouts, batting practice and autographs will highlight the Fan Fest event, and admission is free.Fans will have the chance to meet players and get autographs from the entire 2021 roster following the completion of batting practice.<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/f2749d52-d3d0-44be-8859-2be000dd46bb">The Mustangs' roster</a> features 13 players who are products of local high schools, including five from Savannah alone.So while there's always a few new wrinkles for fans each summer, Turner says the experience will still be a familiar one."You'll see the heightened presence of the local players here," Turner said. "You're going to see that also on the field. There's a lot of stuff in the stands, in the concession stands but also a big part of it on the field."Mustangs players, who started arriving last week, had their first practice Monday and open the season Wednesday against the MINK League's newest team - the Des Moines Peak Prospects. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.All school and medical staff will receive two free tickets to Wednesday's game as a way of saying thank you for all of their efforts in the last 16 or so months."That's a big deal to us," Turner said. "Because we know those people specifically have dealt with a lot of stuff that you normally wouldn't on top of the stuff they already do for us."There will also be a postgame fireworks spectacular after Wednesday's game, as well as June 5, July 3, July 4, July 17 and July 24. Dollar beer nights will be back on Fridays, along with other specials.Preparing for the season takes many months, and many different people, and preparations last right up until the first pitch.But, after a year off, Turner and his staff want to give fans that sense of normalcy back, and give them the same fun experience they remember."We always walk in our guests' shoes and always try and look at it from their eyes and see how we can make it better," Turner said. "That's the other thing, too. We have a whole new intern staff that comes in here and I'm sure they're just as nervous as heck, as our players are too, getting ready to play in front of that opening crowd."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mustangs set to welcome fans back with Fan Fest, season opener this week

OZARK - East Buchanan senior pitcher Kaden Woodside found himself in a tight spot in the top of the third inning during Monday's Class 2 semifinal.

Down 1-0, Holcomb had the bases loaded and only one out after a pair of walks and a single.

Bulldogs' head coach Dave Elms made a quick mound visit, and just two pitches later, a 6-4-3 double play ended the inning.

Woodside walked only one batter after that mound visit, and kept the Hornets off the board for the rest of the game in a complete-game shutout effort, as East Buchanan (18-8) knocked off Holcomb 4-0 Monday at the Class 2 baseball Final Four in Ozark.

Woodside tossed 87 pitches while striking out five and walking four. No hit batters. No wild pitches. No runs across.

"Senior leadership at its finest right there," Coach Elms said of Woodside's performance. "I mean, he put the team on his back. He established the strike zone from the opening pitch. Doing that on a stage like this is huge. I think that settled him in. Our defense was outstanding behind him."

East Buchanan got on the board first in the bottom of the first inning. Senior Blake Antle connected on a single to center, and he proceeded to steal second base.

In the next at-bat, junior Conner Musser reached second base on a dropped pop-fly to left, allowing Antle to score and giving the Bulldogs an early 1-0 lead.

The score stayed that way until the bottom of the fifth inning. Woodside, who batted in the leadoff spot, led off the frame with a single to right. An infield single by senior Matthew Liechti scored Woodside, making it 2-0 East Buchanan after five.

After Woodside struck out two out of his four batters faced in the top of the sixth, the Bulldogs added some more insurance.

With two outs and nobody on, senior Logan Taylor darted a single to center, which was followed by a Woodside walk, and then back-to-back RBI base knocks by seniors Antle and Cameron Henry.

All-in-all, East Buchanan tallied nine hits against Holcomb pitcher Nathaniel Rhew, who struck out nine and walked only three in a complete-game effort.

"We hit the ball well, and that was a quality pitcher we faced," Elms said. "I thought our approach was good 1-9, and I thought our mental approach was good all through the game."

Woodside finished the job quickly in the top of the seventh, retiring Holcomb in just four at-bats and five pitches. The effort is enough to get East Buchanan into the Class 2 state championship game against Marionville, who overcame a five-run deficit to beat Putnam County 8-5.

The game is set for Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m., although there is a strong chance for rain in the Ozark area throughout the day.

While the rain may soak the field Tuesday, Coach Elms and the Bulldogs continue to soak in all that they have achieved up to this point, and look ahead to the ultimate prize that is still out there - the first state baseball championship in East Buchanan history.

"Every game is special," Elms said. "Not taking for granted what we've done. I'm just so proud of them and what they've done and what they've been able to accomplish."

You can hear Tuesday's championship game LIVE on 680 AM and 95.3 FM KFEQ. Pregame will start at 6:15 p.m. The audio stream can be heard online at 680kfeq.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622510401170.jpeg" alt="Logan Taylor (right) and Blake Antle (left) celebrate with the fans after Taylor scored in the sixth inning. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Logan Taylor (right) and Blake Antle (left) celebrate with the fans after Taylor scored in the sixth inning. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostOZARK - East Buchanan senior pitcher Kaden Woodside found himself in a tight spot in the top of the third inning during Monday's Class 2 semifinal.Down 1-0, Holcomb had the bases loaded and only one out after a pair of walks and a single.Bulldogs' head coach Dave Elms made a quick mound visit, and just two pitches later, a 6-4-3 double play ended the inning.Woodside walked only one batter after that mound visit, and kept the Hornets off the board for the rest of the game in a complete-game shutout effort, as East Buchanan (18-8) knocked off Holcomb 4-0 Monday at the Class 2 baseball Final Four in Ozark.Woodside tossed 87 pitches while striking out five and walking four. No hit batters. No wild pitches. No runs across."Senior leadership at its finest right there," Coach Elms said of Woodside's performance. "I mean, he put the team on his back. He established the strike zone from the opening pitch. Doing that on a stage like this is huge. I think that settled him in. Our defense was outstanding behind him."East Buchanan got on the board first in the bottom of the first inning. Senior Blake Antle connected on a single to center, and he proceeded to steal second base.In the next at-bat, junior Conner Musser reached second base on a dropped pop-fly to left, allowing Antle to score and giving the Bulldogs an early 1-0 lead.The score stayed that way until the bottom of the fifth inning. Woodside, who batted in the leadoff spot, led off the frame with a single to right. An infield single by senior Matthew Liechti scored Woodside, making it 2-0 East Buchanan after five.After Woodside struck out two out of his four batters faced in the top of the sixth, the Bulldogs added some more insurance.With two outs and nobody on, senior Logan Taylor darted a single to center, which was followed by a Woodside walk, and then back-to-back RBI base knocks by seniors Antle and Cameron Henry.All-in-all, East Buchanan tallied nine hits against Holcomb pitcher Nathaniel Rhew, who struck out nine and walked only three in a complete-game effort."We hit the ball well, and that was a quality pitcher we faced," Elms said. "I thought our approach was good 1-9, and I thought our mental approach was good all through the game."Woodside finished the job quickly in the top of the seventh, retiring Holcomb in just four at-bats and five pitches. The effort is enough to get East Buchanan into the Class 2 state championship game against Marionville, who overcame a five-run deficit to beat Putnam County 8-5.The game is set for Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m., although there is a strong chance for rain in the Ozark area throughout the day.While the rain may soak the field Tuesday, Coach Elms and the Bulldogs continue to soak in all that they have achieved up to this point, and look ahead to the ultimate prize that is still out there - the first state baseball championship in East Buchanan history."Every game is special," Elms said. "Not taking for granted what we've done. I'm just so proud of them and what they've done and what they've been able to accomplish."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622510319269.jpeg" alt="Kaden Woodside (top)." />
 <figcaption>Kaden Woodside (top).</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622510457519.jpeg" alt="East Buchanan celebrates on the field after Monday's win." />
 <figcaption>East Buchanan celebrates on the field after Monday's win.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622510481041.jpeg" alt="Luke Webb." />
 <figcaption>Luke Webb.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can hear Tuesday's championship game LIVE on 680 AM and 95.3 FM KFEQ. Pregame will start at 6:15 p.m. The audio stream can be heard online at 680kfeq.com.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Woodside pitches full game, Bulldogs advance to title game after win over Holcomb

Qualifying for state track and field in and of itself is a memorable experience for any high school athlete.

But to take gold in every event in which you qualify is simply unforgettable.

Outgoing St. Joseph Christian senior and Nebraska track and field commit Brooklyn Miller did just that, taking home gold medals in high jump, javelin and 300 meter hurdles at the Class 1 state track and field meet in Jefferson City last Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622149781152.jpeg" alt="Courtesy MSHSAA." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy MSHSAA.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostQualifying for state track and field in and of itself is a memorable experience for any high school athlete.But to take gold in every event in which you qualify is simply unforgettable.Outgoing St. Joseph Christian senior and Nebraska track and field commit Brooklyn Miller did just that, taking home gold medals in high jump, javelin and 300 meter hurdles at the Class 1 state track and field meet in Jefferson City last Saturday."It's unbelievable," Miller said. "Because, everything happens so fast. It was just a crazy experience."Miller's road to state was certainly a memorable experience, as she broke and rebroke school records in multiple events. Once she got to state, Miller started her day with high jump - an event in which she won a state title in 2019.After an hour-long rain delay, Miller started jumping around 1 p.m. and was left at the top of the leaderboard with East Atchison sophomore Faith Anderson.After about a three-hour ordeal, Miller and Anderson had to settle a tie with a jump-off. After they both missed 5 feet-7.75 inches, the bar was lowered to 1.70 meters - or 5 feet-7 inches. Miller was able to clear that height a second time, and come away with a first place finish."So mentally and physically, I was just exhausted afterward," Miller said. "It was just something I had never experienced."Miller had little time to reset, as she had to immediately report to the javelin competition, where all of the other competitors had already finished their throws.Miller stepped up and with one throw, put herself at the top of the charts, and the record books, with a throw of 129 feet-7 inches - a new meet record.But, she still had three throws left."Adrenaline was going," Miller said. "I get up there and I threw the first one and it was a little less than what my best was. Then they said, 'Well, you just broke the meet record and you got first. Do you want to be done?'"She then turned to her coaches and parents, who encouraged her to keep throwing, seeing as it was her last high school competition.On her second throw, Miller went further yet, hitting 130 feet-2 inches."So, I took the second throw and that's when I got my best one," she said. "I just went down there, not even thinking about it, because I was exhausted, but still really excited. So, that was another crazy event."Fortunately, getting ready for the 300 hurdles was a little more routine for Miller, but her performance was far from the ordinary. She took first with a time of 48.42 seconds - yet another school record.Looking to become a heptathlete at Nebraska, Miller added 300 hurdles and shot put to her arsenal this season to better prepare herself.She qualified for sectionals in all four of her events."Adding all of these new events is really what keeps my love for track going," Miller said. "Because, you're doing something new every single day at practices, and you're really challenging yourself. So, that just keeps me hungry and keeps me wanting to go to practice and succeed, because I know I have to pick up all of these skills."Miller, who signed for Nebraska track and field in December, will study exercise and nutrition sciences while minoring in business.With practically all recruiting "visits" happening over Zoom last year, Miller was able to schedule an academic visit to Lincoln in November, and went back home with little doubt in her mind."They were so welcoming and so nice," Miller said. "It's such a great college town and you just had that feeling, 'This is where I want to be.'"<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618452555684.jpeg" alt="Brooklyn Miller (right) with St. Joseph Christian athletic director Nicki Carlson during the Scholar Athlete banquet in April. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Brooklyn Miller (right) with St. Joseph Christian athletic director Nicki Carlson during the Scholar Athlete banquet in April. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1056891343&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/tommy-rezac" title="KFEQ Radio, St. Joseph Post" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">KFEQ Radio, St. Joseph Post</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/tommy-rezac/st-joseph-christian-senior-nebraska-track-commit-brooklyn-miller" title="St. Joseph Christian senior, Nebraska track commit Brooklyn Miller" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">St. Joseph Christian senior, Nebraska track commit Brooklyn Miller</a></div></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

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