After more than 20 years of service to Missouri Western athletics, senior associate athletic director for external affairs Brett Esely is ready to take on a new challenge.

Starting January 3rd, he'll become the director of development at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau while also becoming director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission. Missouri Western made the announcement late last week.

Esely helped revive the St. Joseph Sports Commission in recent years, becoming chair of their board. He also led efforts to create the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame, which conducted its inaugural induction ceremony on Sept. 19.&nbsp;

"We were hopeful that it would one day turn into an opportunity for someone to lead that every day," Esely said of the sports commission. "That became a little bit of a reality late this summer that if our commission was going to go like this and continue this upward climb, it needed somebody that was able to focus on it on a day-to-day basis."&nbsp;

Esely's last day at Missouri Western is November 7. While he's excited to start a new chapter, he looks to finish strong in his last few weeks on campus, remaining thankful that he got to work at the University he went to and that he loves dearly.

"I love St. Joe," he said. "Was born and raised here. Don't ever have any plans to leave. As an alum of the institution, Missouri Western is a special place and always will be. The opportunities I've had at Missouri Western and the impact on my life have been unbelievable."

Esely started at Western as a student assistant men's basketball coach in July 2000. He moved into administration in 2003, overseeing NCAA compliance and ticketing before taking on the external affairs role in 2007.

He oversees the athletic department's marketing, advertising, public relations, corporate partnerships and event management. Esely has led event operations for Chiefs Training Camp, helped run many MIAA conference and NCAA championship events and has served as public address announcer and color commentator on Griffon radio broadcasts.

While he'll miss certain parts of his current job, Esely is thankful that he's not leaving his hometown of St. Joseph, and he looks forward to opportunities to still work closely with the University in the future.

"I'll still be around events," Esely said. "I'll still have the great chance of being an alum, because I graduated from the institution. Whereas this kind of closes one chapter of my life and another one opens, I'll still be here. I'm excited about the chance to impact our community in a way that has tremendous room for growth."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633429139451.jpeg" alt="Brett Esely at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau this past summer, announcing the first ever St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame class." />
 <figcaption>Brett Esely at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau this past summer, announcing the first ever St. Joseph Sports Hall of Fame class.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAfter more than 20 years of service to Missouri Western athletics, senior associate athletic director for external affairs Brett Esely is ready to take on a new challenge.Starting January 3rd, he'll become the director of development at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau while also becoming director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission. Missouri Western made the announcement late last week.Esely helped revive the St. Joseph Sports Commission in recent years, becoming chair of their board. He also led efforts to create the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame, which conducted its inaugural induction ceremony on Sept. 19.&nbsp;"We were hopeful that it would one day turn into an opportunity for someone to lead that every day," Esely said of the sports commission. "That became a little bit of a reality late this summer that if our commission was going to go like this and continue this upward climb, it needed somebody that was able to focus on it on a day-to-day basis."&nbsp;Esely's last day at Missouri Western is November 7. While he's excited to start a new chapter, he looks to finish strong in his last few weeks on campus, remaining thankful that he got to work at the University he went to and that he loves dearly."I love St. Joe," he said. "Was born and raised here. Don't ever have any plans to leave. As an alum of the institution, Missouri Western is a special place and always will be. The opportunities I've had at Missouri Western and the impact on my life have been unbelievable."Esely started at Western as a student assistant men's basketball coach in July 2000. He moved into administration in 2003, overseeing NCAA compliance and ticketing before taking on the external affairs role in 2007.He oversees the athletic department's marketing, advertising, public relations, corporate partnerships and event management. Esely has led event operations for Chiefs Training Camp, helped run many MIAA conference and NCAA championship events and has served as public address announcer and color commentator on Griffon radio broadcasts.While he'll miss certain parts of his current job, Esely is thankful that he's not leaving his hometown of St. Joseph, and he looks forward to opportunities to still work closely with the University in the future."I'll still be around events," Esely said. "I'll still have the great chance of being an alum, because I graduated from the institution. Whereas this kind of closes one chapter of my life and another one opens, I'll still be here. I'm excited about the chance to impact our community in a way that has tremendous room for growth."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Esely looks to finish strong at Missouri Western, excited for new chapter at CVB

After a tough loss at Maryville just four days prior, Bishop LeBlond wanted to come back strong at home and play a complete match against an intracity rival.

LeBlond (10-2) got a hat trick from junior midfielder Noah Stevenson in the first half, and five more goals by the Eagles in the second half sent them to a 9-1 victory over Benton at Eagle Stadium Monday.

Stevenson put LeBlond on the board in the first 4:27 on an unassisted goal. He scored twice more in a nine-minute span to give his team a comfortable 3-0 lead early.

"We were getting really good through balls," Stevenson said. "I shanked a couple in the first (half) there and I had to make up for it. Yeah, I just kept my cool and put them in."

LeBlond got another goal in the first half from sophomore midfielder Davis Jungbluth. Benton (3-7) got on the board with 7:17 left in the first half with an unassisted goal from sophomore midfielder Ryker Wells.

The Cardinals, who lost to LeBlond 3-0 on August 31 in the city round robin, managed just two shots-on-goal Monday.

It took the Eagles a few minutes to get hot in the second half, but once they did, there was no turning back. A goal by senior midfielder Eli Spencer put LeBlond ahead 5-1 with 30:56 remaining.

Junior midfielder Aiden Seiter scored exactly 30 seconds after Spencer, and would get another goal just 59 seconds later, putting a surging LeBlond ahead 7-1.

"It was a fun game," Seiter said. "They played hard, we played hard. Teammates played the ball really hard. I was just there to finish."

Goals by senior defender Hayden Cross and sophomore striker Davis Jungbluth put the Eagles ahead 9-1, and the game was called with 11:33 still on the clock.

LeBlond stayed aggressive on the offensive end throughout, managing 18 shots-on-goal. Benton made a change at goalie halfway through the second half, subbing Ethan Colwell for Bradyn Hayes.

Hayes managed a couple of saves, but LeBlond scored on five of their seven shots-on-goal in the second half. A feel good win for a LeBlond team, which lost a 4-2 heartbreaker at Maryville last Thursday - a team that's also contending for an MEC title.

"It was a real confidence booster," Seiter said of Monday's match. "It helped us get our motivation back. I think we're going to go on and win these next couple of games as well. Hopefully beat Maryville in the end as well."

LeBlond, who will see Maryville again in St. Joseph on October 26, will go on the road Thursday to face Kansas City Lutheran.

Benton, who's lost four straight, will host Maryville on Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633397011522.jpeg" alt="Adan Seiter dribbles in the first half. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Adan Seiter dribbles in the first half. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAfter a tough loss at Maryville just four days prior, Bishop LeBlond wanted to come back strong at home and play a complete match against an intracity rival.That they did.LeBlond (10-2) got a hat trick from junior midfielder Noah Stevenson in the first half, and five more goals by the Eagles in the second half sent them to a 9-1 victory over Benton at Eagle Stadium Monday.Stevenson put LeBlond on the board in the first 4:27 on an unassisted goal. He scored twice more in a nine-minute span to give his team a comfortable 3-0 lead early."We were getting really good through balls," Stevenson said. "I shanked a couple in the first (half) there and I had to make up for it. Yeah, I just kept my cool and put them in."LeBlond got another goal in the first half from sophomore midfielder Davis Jungbluth. Benton (3-7) got on the board with 7:17 left in the first half with an unassisted goal from sophomore midfielder Ryker Wells.The Cardinals, who lost to LeBlond 3-0 on August 31 in the city round robin, managed just two shots-on-goal Monday.It took the Eagles a few minutes to get hot in the second half, but once they did, there was no turning back. A goal by senior midfielder Eli Spencer put LeBlond ahead 5-1 with 30:56 remaining.Junior midfielder Aiden Seiter scored exactly 30 seconds after Spencer, and would get another goal just 59 seconds later, putting a surging LeBlond ahead 7-1."It was a fun game," Seiter said. "They played hard, we played hard. Teammates played the ball really hard. I was just there to finish."Goals by senior defender Hayden Cross and sophomore striker Davis Jungbluth put the Eagles ahead 9-1, and the game was called with 11:33 still on the clock.LeBlond stayed aggressive on the offensive end throughout, managing 18 shots-on-goal. Benton made a change at goalie halfway through the second half, subbing Ethan Colwell for Bradyn Hayes.Hayes managed a couple of saves, but LeBlond scored on five of their seven shots-on-goal in the second half. A feel good win for a LeBlond team, which lost a 4-2 heartbreaker at Maryville last Thursday - a team that's also contending for an MEC title."It was a real confidence booster," Seiter said of Monday's match. "It helped us get our motivation back. I think we're going to go on and win these next couple of games as well. Hopefully beat Maryville in the end as well."LeBlond, who will see Maryville again in St. Joseph on October 26, will go on the road Thursday to face Kansas City Lutheran.Benton, who's lost four straight, will host Maryville on Tuesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633397050405.jpeg" alt="Noah Stevenson (right) puts a ball in the back of the net in the first half." />
 <figcaption>Noah Stevenson (right) puts a ball in the back of the net in the first half.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633397102102.jpeg" alt="Davis Jungbluth (right) dribbles past Benton's Sage Miller (19)." />
 <figcaption>Davis Jungbluth (right) dribbles past Benton's Sage Miller (19).</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Stevenson hat trick, two goals from Seiter lift LeBlond over Benton Monday

Patrick Mahomes threw five touchdown passes, including three to Tyreek Hill, and the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Philadelphia Eagles 42-30 Sunday.

Andy Reid returned to Philadelphia and earned his 100th career win with the Chiefs, becoming the first coach in NFL history to win 100 games with two teams.

"The people here have been phenomenal since I got here," said Reid, who was briefly hospitalized after last week's loss to the Chargers. "My room was loaded with food so it was good to have a cheesesteak and a lot of other things. It's good to be back."

Reid’s 140 victories with the Eagles are the most in franchise history. Jalen Hurts threw for a career-high 378 yards and two TDs but Philadelphia (1-3) couldn’t keep up with Kansas City’s (2-2) high-powered offense.

The Eagles had three touchdowns negated by penalty and settled for field goals three times inside the red zone.

Mahomes was 24-of-30 for 278 yards. Hill had a monster day, catching 11 passes for 186 yards. Clyde Edwards-Helaire was solid, carrying the ball 14 times for 102 yards. He also had a receiving touchdown.

"We have to continue to build and get better," Mahomes said. "You don't win a season in September or early October. It's about getting better and better each week, and we're going to keep building and keep doing what we can to get better as a team."

The Chiefs return home to take on Buffalo (3-1) in a rematch of last season's AFC Championship. Kickoff on Sunday is set for 7:20 p.m. central. The game will be carried live on KFEQ (680, 95.3) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633344248320.jpeg" alt="Andy Reid at training camp this past summer in St. Joseph. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Andy Reid at training camp this past summer in St. Joseph. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZAC and ASSOCIATED PRESSSt. Joseph PostPatrick Mahomes threw five touchdown passes, including three to Tyreek Hill, and the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Philadelphia Eagles 42-30 Sunday.Andy Reid returned to Philadelphia and earned his 100th career win with the Chiefs, becoming the first coach in NFL history to win 100 games with two teams."The people here have been phenomenal since I got here," said Reid, who was briefly hospitalized after last week's loss to the Chargers. "My room was loaded with food so it was good to have a cheesesteak and a lot of other things. It's good to be back."Reid’s 140 victories with the Eagles are the most in franchise history. Jalen Hurts threw for a career-high 378 yards and two TDs but Philadelphia (1-3) couldn’t keep up with Kansas City’s (2-2) high-powered offense.The Eagles had three touchdowns negated by penalty and settled for field goals three times inside the red zone.Mahomes was 24-of-30 for 278 yards. Hill had a monster day, catching 11 passes for 186 yards. Clyde Edwards-Helaire was solid, carrying the ball 14 times for 102 yards. He also had a receiving touchdown."We have to continue to build and get better," Mahomes said. "You don't win a season in September or early October. It's about getting better and better each week, and we're going to keep building and keep doing what we can to get better as a team."The Chiefs return home to take on Buffalo (3-1) in a rematch of last season's AFC Championship. Kickoff on Sunday is set for 7:20 p.m. central. The game will be carried live on KFEQ (680, 95.3) and Q Country 92.7 FM in St. Joseph.

Mahomes throws for five TDs in win over Eagles, Reid gets 100th victory with Chiefs

Missouri Western made a monster play early in the first quarter defensively when a pass attempt by Northwest Missouri State quarterback Mike Hohensee was ruled a fumble and taken 56 yards the other way for a touchdown by freshman Brandon Johnson.

The Griffons created a massive spark in the first five minutes, but were unable to ignite much of anything else for the rest of the game.

No. 2 Northwest (4-0) scored 23 unanswered points on their next four possessions after the fumble, and they salted the game away late with their running game in a 30-7 win over Missouri Western at Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph Saturday.

After a scoreless third quarter, Northwest started their last scoring drive at their own seven-yard line with 13:25 to play. What followed was a 14-play, 93-yard march that ended with a two-yard touchdown run by senior running back Al McKeller.

The touchdown put the Bearcats ahead by 23 with just over six minutes left.

An All-American transfer from the University of Indianapolis who has over 4,000 career rushing yards, McKeller accounted for 77 yards on the final drive alone, and finished the game with 171 yards rushing on 28 carries and two touchdowns.

While the Bearcats' offense certainly had their share of big plays, finishing with 433 total yards, their defense dominated throughout, holding the Griffons (2-3) to just 101 total yards of offense, including just eight rushing yards.

"On the execution part of it, we're not getting beat, but we're beating ourselves," Missouri Western head coach Matt Williamson said. "We're either doing something incorrect or our technique is right and we're trying to do too much. We're not finishing blocks, we're not finishing tackles. There's a lot to it."

Missouri Western had 11 total possessions Saturday. Ten of them ended with a punt, including four three-and-outs. Another drive in the second half ended with a fumble.

Penalties were again a problem for the Griffons Saturday. After committing 10 penalties against Washburn the week prior, Western was called on 10 more penalties for 80 yards against Northwest.

One of those was an offsides penalty that negated a Devan Burrell interception in the first quarter that would have given the Griffons the ball back up 7-0. Several holding calls negated what would have been big offensive plays for MWSU.

"The thing that's killing us the most obviously is you look at the flags," Williamson pointed out. "You look at some of the holdings, and we're not executing. We're not disciplined. We lost this game, because we're undisciplined as a group, as a unit."

Hohensee put together a brilliant first half in the passing game for Northwest, completing 12-of-16 passes for 214 yards and two touchdowns. He left the game late in the first half with injury and wouldn't return.

While Northwest was held scoreless in the third quarter, Missouri Western struggled to get anything going offensively in the second half.

Field position was a problem for the Griffons all night, as they started four drives inside their own 15-yard line, including one that started at their own one-yard line.

A couple of botched kick returns, a couple of holding calls on those returns and two punts pinned inside the 20 had Missouri Western playing in the shadow of their own end zone for much of the game.

"The flags put us in some really bad situations," Williamson remarked. "It made our offense try to move the ball 80-90 yards. That's a difficult task against a really good defense. Then we punt the ball and they start in plus territory, and we put our defense in some bad situations."

Quarterback Anthony Vespo got a few things going in the passing game, especially early. He completed 7-of-12 throws for 71 yards. He did however irritate his right shoulder Saturday - the same shoulder that got dinged up the week prior at Washburn but was rehabbed this past week in practice.

After a deep throw in the third quarter, Vespo felt some discomfort in his right arm, and was taken out. Freshman Reagan Jones relieved Vespo halfway through the third quarter, but the Griffon offense remained stagnant.

Missouri Western achieved multiple first downs on just two of their 11 possessions and crossed midfield only once.

Five sacks by Northwest didn't help things, either.

"We got into a situation where we were down and they knew we were going to have to throw it a little bit more," Williamson said. "(Northwest) just pinned their ears back. They got great pressure. O-line didn't protect very well."

The Griffons head back on the road October 9 to face No. 12 Nebraska-Kearney (4-1), who was upset at Fort Hays State 42-35 on Saturday. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m.

Pregame coverage will start at 1 p.m. on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM).

The Griffons will study the Lopers in depth, just like they would any other opponent. However, Williamson wants to challenge himself, his staff and the team to find the answer to one question in the days leading up to their next game.

"When are we going to stop delivering, and giving things away, and force people to take them from us?" Williamson said. "That's the reality right now for me with this team...a lot of very disappointing things. A lot of corrections that I have to make, that our staff has to make."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633239128338.jpeg" alt="MWSU's Brandon Johnson celebrates after a 56-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the Griffons' 30-7 loss to Northwest Missouri State Saturday. Courtesy photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>MWSU's Brandon Johnson celebrates after a 56-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the Griffons' 30-7 loss to Northwest Missouri State Saturday. Courtesy photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western made a monster play early in the first quarter defensively when a pass attempt by Northwest Missouri State quarterback Mike Hohensee was ruled a fumble and taken 56 yards the other way for a touchdown by freshman Brandon Johnson.The Griffons created a massive spark in the first five minutes, but were unable to ignite much of anything else for the rest of the game.No. 2 Northwest (4-0) scored 23 unanswered points on their next four possessions after the fumble, and they salted the game away late with their running game in a 30-7 win over Missouri Western at Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph Saturday.After a scoreless third quarter, Northwest started their last scoring drive at their own seven-yard line with 13:25 to play. What followed was a 14-play, 93-yard march that ended with a two-yard touchdown run by senior running back Al McKeller.The touchdown put the Bearcats ahead by 23 with just over six minutes left.An All-American transfer from the University of Indianapolis who has over 4,000 career rushing yards, McKeller accounted for 77 yards on the final drive alone, and finished the game with 171 yards rushing on 28 carries and two touchdowns.While the Bearcats' offense certainly had their share of big plays, finishing with 433 total yards, their defense dominated throughout, holding the Griffons (2-3) to just 101 total yards of offense, including just eight rushing yards."On the execution part of it, we're not getting beat, but we're beating ourselves," Missouri Western head coach Matt Williamson said. "We're either doing something incorrect or our technique is right and we're trying to do too much. We're not finishing blocks, we're not finishing tackles. There's a lot to it."Missouri Western had 11 total possessions Saturday. Ten of them ended with a punt, including four three-and-outs. Another drive in the second half ended with a fumble.Penalties were again a problem for the Griffons Saturday. After committing 10 penalties against Washburn the week prior, Western was called on 10 more penalties for 80 yards against Northwest.One of those was an offsides penalty that negated a Devan Burrell interception in the first quarter that would have given the Griffons the ball back up 7-0. Several holding calls negated what would have been big offensive plays for MWSU."The thing that's killing us the most obviously is you look at the flags," Williamson pointed out. "You look at some of the holdings, and we're not executing. We're not disciplined. We lost this game, because we're undisciplined as a group, as a unit."Hohensee put together a brilliant first half in the passing game for Northwest, completing 12-of-16 passes for 214 yards and two touchdowns. He left the game late in the first half with injury and wouldn't return.While Northwest was held scoreless in the third quarter, Missouri Western struggled to get anything going offensively in the second half.Field position was a problem for the Griffons all night, as they started four drives inside their own 15-yard line, including one that started at their own one-yard line.A couple of botched kick returns, a couple of holding calls on those returns and two punts pinned inside the 20 had Missouri Western playing in the shadow of their own end zone for much of the game."The flags put us in some really bad situations," Williamson remarked. "It made our offense try to move the ball 80-90 yards. That's a difficult task against a really good defense. Then we punt the ball and they start in plus territory, and we put our defense in some bad situations."Quarterback Anthony Vespo got a few things going in the passing game, especially early. He completed 7-of-12 throws for 71 yards. He did however irritate his right shoulder Saturday - the same shoulder that got dinged up the week prior at Washburn but was rehabbed this past week in practice.After a deep throw in the third quarter, Vespo felt some discomfort in his right arm, and was taken out. Freshman Reagan Jones relieved Vespo halfway through the third quarter, but the Griffon offense remained stagnant.Missouri Western achieved multiple first downs on just two of their 11 possessions and crossed midfield only once.Five sacks by Northwest didn't help things, either."We got into a situation where we were down and they knew we were going to have to throw it a little bit more," Williamson said. "(Northwest) just pinned their ears back. They got great pressure. O-line didn't protect very well."The Griffons head back on the road October 9 to face No. 12 Nebraska-Kearney (4-1), who was upset at Fort Hays State 42-35 on Saturday. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m.Pregame coverage will start at 1 p.m. on KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM).The Griffons will study the Lopers in depth, just like they would any other opponent. However, Williamson wants to challenge himself, his staff and the team to find the answer to one question in the days leading up to their next game."When are we going to stop delivering, and giving things away, and force people to take them from us?" Williamson said. "That's the reality right now for me with this team...a lot of very disappointing things. A lot of corrections that I have to make, that our staff has to make."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Northwest defense dominates Missouri Western in Saturday victory

We’re officially into the back half of the high school football regular season. It’s now week 6 in Missouri and week 5 in Kansas.

Below are all of the games we're following, starting with Missouri.

MEC Maryville 47 (3-3) Benton 12 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: Benton home to St. Pius X - Week 7: Maryville home to Lincoln College Prep

Savannah 51 (3-3) Cameron 23 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: Cameron @ Lafayette - Week 7: Savannah home to Chillicothe

Lafayette (5-1) 35 Chillicothe 34 (3-3) - FINAL - Week 7: Lafayette home to Cameron - Week 7: Chillicothe @ Savannah

#10 Bishop LeBlond 44 (5-1)&nbsp;Kansas City East Christian 27 (4-2) - FINAL - Week 7: Bishop LeBlond @ Nodaway Valley

KCI #2 Mid-Buchanan 21 (6-0) #9 Hamilton 19 (4-2) - FINAL - Week 7: Mid-Buchanan home to East Buchanan (KFEQ) - Week 7: Hamilton home to Plattsburg

West Platte 14 (5-1)&nbsp;Lathrop 7 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Lawson @ Lathrop - Week 7: West Platte @ North Platte

Lawson 50 (2-4) North Platte 6 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Lawson home to Lathrop - Week 7: North Platte home to West Platte

#6 East Buchanan 44 (6-0)&nbsp;Plattsburg 20 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: East Buchanan @ Mid-Buchanan (KFEQ) - Week 7: Plattsburg @ Hamilton

Grand River Conference #1 Stanberry 55 (5-0)&nbsp;North Andrew 12 (3-3) - FINAL - Week 7: North Andrew home to Albany - Week 7: Stanberry home to North Shelby

#6 King City 74 (4-2)&nbsp;Rock Port 0 (4-2) - FINAL - Week 7: King City home to Schuyler County - Week 7: Rock Port home to Southwest Livingston

Knox County 72 (4-2)&nbsp;St. Joseph Christian 20 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: St. Joseph Christian @ St. Mary's Academy (KS)

Albany (3-3) 82&nbsp;Schuyler County 22 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Albany @ North Andrew

Maysville 39 (2-4) Princeton 16 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Maysville @ Trenton

#2 Worth County 56 (6-0)&nbsp;#7 Orrick 8 (4-1) - FINAL - Week 7: Worth County @ Pattonsburg

Gallatin 40 (4-2)&nbsp;Milan 6 (2-4) - FINAL - Week 7: Gallatin @ Putnam County

Polo 30 (5-1) Trenton 20 (3-3) - FINAL - Week 7: Trenton home to Maysville - Week 7: Polo @ Princeton

South Harrison 28 (3-3)&nbsp;Putnam County 14 (2-4) - FINAL - Week 7: South Harrison @ Milan

275 Conference Platte Valley 62 (4-2)&nbsp;Southwest Livingston 8 (2-4) - FINAL - Week 7: Platte Valley home to DeKalb

South Holt 72 (4-2) Stewartsville-Osborn 20 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 7: South Holt @ Mound City - Week 7: Stewartsville-Osborn @ East Atchison

Nodaway Valley 58 (2-4) DeKalb 6 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: DeKalb @ Platte Valley - Week 7: Nodaway Valley home to Bishop LeBlond

#3 East Atchison 58 (6-0)&nbsp; Mound City (3-3) 6 - FINAL - Week 7: Mound City home to South Holt - Week 7: East Atchison home to Stewartsville-Osborn

Greater KC Suburban Conference Oak Park 48 (2-4)&nbsp;St. Joseph Central 21 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: Central home to Lee's Summit

Platte County 62 (4-2)&nbsp; Ruskin 0 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 7: Platte County home to Winnetonka

Kansas games Atchison 45 (4-1) Turner 12 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 6: Atchison @ Sumner Academy

Hiawatha 45 (3-2)&nbsp;Jefferson West 0 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 6: Hiawatha @ Holton

Jackson Heights 38 (3-2) Troy 15 (3-2) - FINAL - Week 6: Troy @ Valley Heights

Republic County 16 (3-1)&nbsp;Riverside 6 (0-5) - FINAL - Week 6: Riverside home to Atchison County

Atchison County 42 (4-1)&nbsp;Maur Hill Prep-Mount Academy 29 (2-3) - FINAL - Week 6: Maur Hill @ Nemaha Central

Doniphan West 62 (2-4)&nbsp;Maranatha Christian Academy 14 (0-5) - FINAL - Week 6: Doniphan West @ Clifton-Clyde

More scores<a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/scoreboard/"> can be found here</a>.

Tune into KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM) every Friday night from 8-10 this fall for 'Friday Night Lights!' We'll have live scoring updates throughout the show, plus interviews with local coaches and media!

You can also listen at 680kfeq.com or on the KFEQ mobile app!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632962427566.jpeg" alt="Lafayette's Jaron Saunders (left), left tackle Quentin Garrett (center) and Kingston Oliver (right). Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Lafayette's Jaron Saunders (left), left tackle Quentin Garrett (center) and Kingston Oliver (right). Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWe’re officially into the back half of the high school football regular season. It’s now week 6 in Missouri and week 5 in Kansas.Below are all of the games we're following, starting with Missouri.MEC Maryville 47 (3-3) Benton 12 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: Benton home to St. Pius X - Week 7: Maryville home to Lincoln College PrepSavannah 51 (3-3) Cameron 23 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: Cameron @ Lafayette - Week 7: Savannah home to ChillicotheLafayette (5-1) 35 Chillicothe 34 (3-3) - FINAL - Week 7: Lafayette home to Cameron - Week 7: Chillicothe @ Savannah<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Lafayette-football-coach-Ryan-Shroyer-e186ldn" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>#10 Bishop LeBlond 44 (5-1)&nbsp;Kansas City East Christian 27 (4-2) - FINAL - Week 7: Bishop LeBlond @ Nodaway ValleyKCI #2 Mid-Buchanan 21 (6-0) #9 Hamilton 19 (4-2) - FINAL - Week 7: Mid-Buchanan home to East Buchanan (KFEQ) - Week 7: Hamilton home to Plattsburg<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Mid-Buchanan-football-coach-Aaron-Fritz-e186lb0" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>West Platte 14 (5-1)&nbsp;Lathrop 7 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Lawson @ Lathrop - Week 7: West Platte @ North Platte<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/West-Platte-football-coach-Jim-Newsted-e186l7f" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Lawson 50 (2-4) North Platte 6 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Lawson home to Lathrop - Week 7: North Platte home to West Platte#6 East Buchanan 44 (6-0)&nbsp;Plattsburg 20 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: East Buchanan @ Mid-Buchanan (KFEQ) - Week 7: Plattsburg @ HamiltonGrand River Conference #1 Stanberry 55 (5-0)&nbsp;North Andrew 12 (3-3) - FINAL - Week 7: North Andrew home to Albany - Week 7: Stanberry home to North Shelby<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Stanberry-head-football-coach-Shane-Hilton-e186lcs" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>#6 King City 74 (4-2)&nbsp;Rock Port 0 (4-2) - FINAL - Week 7: King City home to Schuyler County - Week 7: Rock Port home to Southwest LivingstonKnox County 72 (4-2)&nbsp;St. Joseph Christian 20 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: St. Joseph Christian @ St. Mary's Academy (KS)Albany (3-3) 82&nbsp;Schuyler County 22 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Albany @ North AndrewMaysville 39 (2-4) Princeton 16 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: Maysville @ Trenton<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Maysville-head-football-coach-Chris-McMillan-e186l8m" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>#2 Worth County 56 (6-0)&nbsp;#7 Orrick 8 (4-1) - FINAL - Week 7: Worth County @ PattonsburgGallatin 40 (4-2)&nbsp;Milan 6 (2-4) - FINAL - Week 7: Gallatin @ Putnam CountyPolo 30 (5-1) Trenton 20 (3-3) - FINAL - Week 7: Trenton home to Maysville - Week 7: Polo @ PrincetonSouth Harrison 28 (3-3)&nbsp;Putnam County 14 (2-4) - FINAL - Week 7: South Harrison @ Milan275 Conference Platte Valley 62 (4-2)&nbsp;Southwest Livingston 8 (2-4) - FINAL - Week 7: Platte Valley home to DeKalbSouth Holt 72 (4-2) Stewartsville-Osborn 20 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 7: South Holt @ Mound City - Week 7: Stewartsville-Osborn @ East Atchison<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/South-Holt-head-football-coach-Josh-Petersen-e186l3v" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Nodaway Valley 58 (2-4) DeKalb 6 (0-6) - FINAL - Week 7: DeKalb @ Platte Valley - Week 7: Nodaway Valley home to Bishop LeBlond#3 East Atchison 58 (6-0)&nbsp; Mound City (3-3) 6 - FINAL - Week 7: Mound City home to South Holt - Week 7: East Atchison home to Stewartsville-OsbornGreater KC Suburban Conference Oak Park 48 (2-4)&nbsp;St. Joseph Central 21 (1-5) - FINAL - Week 7: Central home to Lee's SummitPlatte County 62 (4-2)&nbsp; Ruskin 0 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 7: Platte County home to WinnetonkaKansas games Atchison 45 (4-1) Turner 12 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 6: Atchison @ Sumner AcademyHiawatha 45 (3-2)&nbsp;Jefferson West 0 (1-4) - FINAL - Week 6: Hiawatha @ HoltonJackson Heights 38 (3-2) Troy 15 (3-2) - FINAL - Week 6: Troy @ Valley HeightsRepublic County 16 (3-1)&nbsp;Riverside 6 (0-5) - FINAL - Week 6: Riverside home to Atchison CountyAtchison County 42 (4-1)&nbsp;Maur Hill Prep-Mount Academy 29 (2-3) - FINAL - Week 6: Maur Hill @ Nemaha CentralDoniphan West 62 (2-4)&nbsp;Maranatha Christian Academy 14 (0-5) - FINAL - Week 6: Doniphan West @ Clifton-ClydeMore scores<a href="https://www.680kfeq.com/scoreboard/"> can be found here</a>.Tune into KFEQ Radio (680 AM, 95.3 FM) every Friday night from 8-10 this fall for 'Friday Night Lights!' We'll have live scoring updates throughout the show, plus interviews with local coaches and media!You can also listen at 680kfeq.com or on the KFEQ mobile app!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631309150029.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area football matchups and scoreboard - October 1, 2021

For the first time in over two years, the biggest college football rivalry in northwest Missouri will be renewed.

No. 2 Northwest Missouri State (3-0) comes to St. Joseph to face Missouri Western (2-2) on Saturday night at 6 p.m. at Spratt Stadium.

This will be the first meeting between the Griffons and Bearcats on the gridiron since September 5, 2019, when the two rivals opened the season against one another.

Missouri Western saw a 35-31 lead slip away late that day, as Northwest scored 14 unanswered points in the final 12:38 to come away with a 45-35 win in a game that was also at Spratt Stadium.

Northwest has won the last seven meetings in the series, and 10 of the last 11 matchups in St. Joseph. The Bearcats lead the all-time series 28-13.

The implications of this game are obvious. It's the Griffons' toughest opponent on the schedule, as well as their closest and biggest rival. Be that as it may, Missouri Western receiver and freshman Hezekiah Trotter says the Griffons are just going about their business as they normally would.

"Yeah, there might be a little bit more added spice to it this week just because it is Northwest," Trotter said, "but, I mean, we're looking at this as if it's a very winnable game. It doesn't matter who has to come in and play us. They have to come in and give us their best effort, and that's what we're expecting, but I'm excited to finally get to play in an atmosphere like that against such a rival."

Trotter scored his first career touchdown last week, and hauled in four passes for a career-high 121 yards, as the Griffons lost <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/e19f95f4-6c6a-4b4d-871a-ae3253bd4e77">47-41 in a shootout at Washburn</a> last Saturday.

Missouri Western piled up 579 yards of offense, and quarterback Anthony Vespo set a single-game school record with 443 yards passing, but the Ichabods had 532 yards themselves, and capitalized off of multiple special teams penalties and a pair of Missouri Western turnovers.

"We did some good things," Missouri Western head coach Matt Williamson said. "It wasn't that we got beat. It was more that we beat ourselves if you go back and watch all of the film. So, that's something we're going to make sure we correct this week, and we have to be ready to go. But, I was absolutely ecstatic about how effective we were as an offense."

The Griffons are now averaging over 493 yards and over 35 points per game - both figures rank in the top three in the MIAA. Their 366 passing yards per game ranks first in the league and third nationally.

"Each week, you can kind of see us just get better and better," Trotter said of the offense. "So, we just take everything, whether it's a good week or a bad week, and just always look for ways that we can improve as a position group and then as a team as a whole."

Missouri Western will need to bring all of its offensive firepower to this fight, because the Northwest defense is just as gifted, and is among the very best in the nation.

The Bearcats are limiting opponents to just 4.7 points per game so far, making them the best scoring defense in the nation. They allow just 40.7 rushing yards per contest - the fewest allowed in the MIAA, making Northwest the fourth best rushing defense in Division II as well.

Helping to lead this charge up front is senior and all-MIAA linebacker Jackson Barnes - a Liberty High School alum who was just named the league's defensive player of the week Monday.

Barnes notched three tackles-for-loss and a sack, as the Bearcats limited Central Oklahoma to 122 yards of total offense, including -28 rushing yards, and just eight first downs in a 38-0 shutout over the Bronchos last Saturday in Maryville.

Northwest thumped Central Missouri 47-7 in Warrensburg the week prior. They also won a 15-7 slugfest at Fort Hays State to open the season on Sept. 2.

"I think the biggest thing we've been doing is getting off the field," Barnes said about the defense during an interview with the Bearcat Radio Network's coaches' show. "We've been getting some three-and-outs, and we've been getting the ball back to the offense and having them drive the field and it's putting us in a good position."

On the offensive side, Northwest has found a spark in quarterback Mike Hohensee. A sophomore, Hohensee was thrust into the starting role in the second game of the season when junior and two-year starter Braden Wright was ruled out for 4-6 weeks on Sept. 18 due to an emergency surgery to repair midgut volvulus, twisting of the intestine, according to the Northwest Missourian.

Hohensee has been outstanding in two starts, completing 32-of-45 passes for 511 yards and six touchdowns with only one interception. He's also rushed for three scores in wins over Central Missouri and UCO.

"The offense has been driving the ball down the field," Barnes said. "They've been holding the ball a lot and keeping the ball out of the hands of the other offense's hands, so that's a huge part of it."

The Bearcats play a physical brand of football, averaging over 230 rushing yards per contest. They also hold the ball for an average of 35:24 per game - the highest rate in the MIAA, and a number that ranks in the top ten nationally.

While Missouri Western is a young team on offense, with no seniors in the starting lineup, Barnes has noticed one thing about his team's upcoming opponent that may not show up on a stat sheet.

"Something I've seen is they always come back in all of the games that they've played in," Barnes noticed when scouting Missouri Western. "They've gotten down early, but they've always fought to come back. So, we can't look past them at all. At any moment, they're going to try and come back in the game. I think the biggest thing is, if we get up, just hold them there."

Missouri Western has outscored its opposition 65-36 in the second half this season, including 31-12 in the fourth quarter.

Saturday's game can be heard live on the Griffon Sports Network (680 AM, 95.3 FM) and 680kfeq.com or on the KFEQ mobile app. Pregame coverage starts at 5 p.m. Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633029939412.jpeg" alt="Courtesy GoGriffons.com." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy GoGriffons.com.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFor the first time in over two years, the biggest college football rivalry in northwest Missouri will be renewed.No. 2 Northwest Missouri State (3-0) comes to St. Joseph to face Missouri Western (2-2) on Saturday night at 6 p.m. at Spratt Stadium.This will be the first meeting between the Griffons and Bearcats on the gridiron since September 5, 2019, when the two rivals opened the season against one another.Missouri Western saw a 35-31 lead slip away late that day, as Northwest scored 14 unanswered points in the final 12:38 to come away with a 45-35 win in a game that was also at Spratt Stadium.Northwest has won the last seven meetings in the series, and 10 of the last 11 matchups in St. Joseph. The Bearcats lead the all-time series 28-13.The implications of this game are obvious. It's the Griffons' toughest opponent on the schedule, as well as their closest and biggest rival. Be that as it may, Missouri Western receiver and freshman Hezekiah Trotter says the Griffons are just going about their business as they normally would."Yeah, there might be a little bit more added spice to it this week just because it is Northwest," Trotter said, "but, I mean, we're looking at this as if it's a very winnable game. It doesn't matter who has to come in and play us. They have to come in and give us their best effort, and that's what we're expecting, but I'm excited to finally get to play in an atmosphere like that against such a rival."Trotter scored his first career touchdown last week, and hauled in four passes for a career-high 121 yards, as the Griffons lost <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/e19f95f4-6c6a-4b4d-871a-ae3253bd4e77">47-41 in a shootout at Washburn</a> last Saturday.Missouri Western piled up 579 yards of offense, and quarterback Anthony Vespo set a single-game school record with 443 yards passing, but the Ichabods had 532 yards themselves, and capitalized off of multiple special teams penalties and a pair of Missouri Western turnovers."We did some good things," Missouri Western head coach Matt Williamson said. "It wasn't that we got beat. It was more that we beat ourselves if you go back and watch all of the film. So, that's something we're going to make sure we correct this week, and we have to be ready to go. But, I was absolutely ecstatic about how effective we were as an offense."The Griffons are now averaging over 493 yards and over 35 points per game - both figures rank in the top three in the MIAA. Their 366 passing yards per game ranks first in the league and third nationally."Each week, you can kind of see us just get better and better," Trotter said of the offense. "So, we just take everything, whether it's a good week or a bad week, and just always look for ways that we can improve as a position group and then as a team as a whole."Missouri Western will need to bring all of its offensive firepower to this fight, because the Northwest defense is just as gifted, and is among the very best in the nation.The Bearcats are limiting opponents to just 4.7 points per game so far, making them the best scoring defense in the nation. They allow just 40.7 rushing yards per contest - the fewest allowed in the MIAA, making Northwest the fourth best rushing defense in Division II as well.Helping to lead this charge up front is senior and all-MIAA linebacker Jackson Barnes - a Liberty High School alum who was just named the league's defensive player of the week Monday.Barnes notched three tackles-for-loss and a sack, as the Bearcats limited Central Oklahoma to 122 yards of total offense, including -28 rushing yards, and just eight first downs in a 38-0 shutout over the Bronchos last Saturday in Maryville.Northwest thumped Central Missouri 47-7 in Warrensburg the week prior. They also won a 15-7 slugfest at Fort Hays State to open the season on Sept. 2."I think the biggest thing we've been doing is getting off the field," Barnes said about the defense during an interview with the Bearcat Radio Network's coaches' show. "We've been getting some three-and-outs, and we've been getting the ball back to the offense and having them drive the field and it's putting us in a good position."On the offensive side, Northwest has found a spark in quarterback Mike Hohensee. A sophomore, Hohensee was thrust into the starting role in the second game of the season when junior and two-year starter Braden Wright was ruled out for 4-6 weeks on Sept. 18 due to an emergency surgery to repair midgut volvulus, twisting of the intestine, according to the Northwest Missourian.Hohensee has been outstanding in two starts, completing 32-of-45 passes for 511 yards and six touchdowns with only one interception. He's also rushed for three scores in wins over Central Missouri and UCO."The offense has been driving the ball down the field," Barnes said. "They've been holding the ball a lot and keeping the ball out of the hands of the other offense's hands, so that's a huge part of it."The Bearcats play a physical brand of football, averaging over 230 rushing yards per contest. They also hold the ball for an average of 35:24 per game - the highest rate in the MIAA, and a number that ranks in the top ten nationally.While Missouri Western is a young team on offense, with no seniors in the starting lineup, Barnes has noticed one thing about his team's upcoming opponent that may not show up on a stat sheet."Something I've seen is they always come back in all of the games that they've played in," Barnes noticed when scouting Missouri Western. "They've gotten down early, but they've always fought to come back. So, we can't look past them at all. At any moment, they're going to try and come back in the game. I think the biggest thing is, if we get up, just hold them there."Missouri Western has outscored its opposition 65-36 in the second half this season, including 31-12 in the fourth quarter.<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/Matt-Williamson--Hezekiah-Trotter-recap-Washburn--preview-Northwest-e184ipo" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>Saturday's game can be heard live on the Griffon Sports Network (680 AM, 95.3 FM) and 680kfeq.com or on the KFEQ mobile app. Pregame coverage starts at 5 p.m. Saturday.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

MWSU, No. 2 Northwest to renew rivalry at Spratt Stadium Saturday

Volleyball Benton 3 Bishop LeBlond 1. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/12538de2-e6b1-44d8-8787-e415cfd41005">Full coverage here</a>. St. Pius X 3 Lafayette 1 St. Joseph Central @ Park Hill South - score missing, but Central lost. East Buchanan 3 Hamilton 0 Plattsburg 3 Lathrop 2 Mid-Buchanan 3 West Platte 1 South Holt 3 East Atchison 1 Mound City 3 Nodaway Valley 0

Softball Savannah 10 Lafayette 7 Benton 7 Maryville 6 North Platte 20 East Buchanan 5 Mid-Buchanan 2 Lawson 1 Maysville 15 King City 0 Platte Valley 14 South Holt 0 Northeast Nodaway 1 DeKalb 0 North Andrew at South Harrison - postponed

Boys' soccer Maryville 4 Bishop LeBlond 2. It's just the second loss of the season for the Eagles and their first MEC loss. The Spoofounds are still unbeaten in conference play. Jacob Ferris had a hat trick for Maryville.

Girls' tennis Maryville 7 Benton 2 Lafayette 9 Cameron 0

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633055552830.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostVolleyball Benton 3 Bishop LeBlond 1. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/12538de2-e6b1-44d8-8787-e415cfd41005">Full coverage here</a>. St. Pius X 3 Lafayette 1 St. Joseph Central @ Park Hill South - score missing, but Central lost. East Buchanan 3 Hamilton 0 Plattsburg 3 Lathrop 2 Mid-Buchanan 3 West Platte 1 South Holt 3 East Atchison 1 Mound City 3 Nodaway Valley 0Softball Savannah 10 Lafayette 7 Benton 7 Maryville 6 North Platte 20 East Buchanan 5 Mid-Buchanan 2 Lawson 1 Maysville 15 King City 0 Platte Valley 14 South Holt 0 Northeast Nodaway 1 DeKalb 0 North Andrew at South Harrison - postponedBoys' soccer Maryville 4 Bishop LeBlond 2. It's just the second loss of the season for the Eagles and their first MEC loss. The Spoofounds are still unbeaten in conference play. Jacob Ferris had a hat trick for Maryville.St. Pius X 3 Savannah 0Girls' tennis Maryville 7 Benton 2 Lafayette 9 Cameron 0

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - September 30, 2021

After a slow start in the first set, the Benton Cardinals went on a run to take the second set, and went on to dominate the rest of the way in a 3-1 win over Bishop LeBlond at Springer Gymnasium Thursday.

Benton (8-10) fell in the first set 25-19, but went on a 10-1 run in the second to win that one, 25-17. Sets three and four belonged to the Cardinals, as they dominated those 25-10 and 25-12 respectively.

After Benton got behind 16-15 in set two, first-year head coach Lauryn Doolan called timeout, and asked her team to be more aggressive.

"I told the girls (in timeout) that we have to go after every single thing," Doolan said. "We can't give up anything, and then it starts with us being aggressive with everything that we send over to LeBlond. Hits, serves and free balls. Everything that we give another team, we have to make them work and make it hard on them."

The third set started out neck-and-neck, but Benton jumped out to a 12-8 lead, and LeBlond's offensive mistakes started piling up. Senior hitter Alyia Stillman also started heating up, knocking down six kills in the second set alone.

Stillman finished with a match-high 20 kills and six aces.

"She did everything well tonight to be completely honest," Doolan said of Stillman. "Even if she has those games where she's not passing as well, she finds somewhere on the court to help out our team and she's a great leader, great athlete and all around just a great person."

While Stillman was at times dominant, Benton did a great job spreading the wealth offensively Thursday.&nbsp;

Sophomore Avery Morlock had seven kills, while freshman Andrea Simmons, sophomore Hollie Peters and senior Gabby Moulden each had six.

"Every single girl who walks out onto the court for me can play," Doolan said. "We're big, we're strong and I have some great, great girls."

Benton, winners of three straight after sweeps over Excelsior Springs Monday and Lathrop Tuesday, will face another intracity rival when they go to Lafayette Monday.

After a 4-5 start to the season, Doolan can start to see things coming into form for her team as districts come up in less than a month.

"That's okay to have those mistakes that we have to correct in the beginning of the season," she pointed out, "because, now we're starting to fix those things toward the end and this is where I want to catch that momentum, that stride and I want to be ready to go into districts and win."

LeBlond was led Thursday by senior Kianna Herrera, who had 12 kills for the Eagles (12-3). Junior Sadie Ward had six kills and two aces.

LeBlond goes home Tuesday for the LeBlond varsity tournament. They'll face West Platte Tuesday&nbsp; at 5 p.m. and Lafayette Thursday at 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633054397800.jpeg" alt="Alyia Stillman (left) looks to hit a ball past LeBlond's Paige Perry. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Alyia Stillman (left) looks to hit a ball past LeBlond's Paige Perry. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAfter a slow start in the first set, the Benton Cardinals went on a run to take the second set, and went on to dominate the rest of the way in a 3-1 win over Bishop LeBlond at Springer Gymnasium Thursday.Benton (8-10) fell in the first set 25-19, but went on a 10-1 run in the second to win that one, 25-17. Sets three and four belonged to the Cardinals, as they dominated those 25-10 and 25-12 respectively.After Benton got behind 16-15 in set two, first-year head coach Lauryn Doolan called timeout, and asked her team to be more aggressive."I told the girls (in timeout) that we have to go after every single thing," Doolan said. "We can't give up anything, and then it starts with us being aggressive with everything that we send over to LeBlond. Hits, serves and free balls. Everything that we give another team, we have to make them work and make it hard on them."The third set started out neck-and-neck, but Benton jumped out to a 12-8 lead, and LeBlond's offensive mistakes started piling up. Senior hitter Alyia Stillman also started heating up, knocking down six kills in the second set alone.Stillman finished with a match-high 20 kills and six aces."She did everything well tonight to be completely honest," Doolan said of Stillman. "Even if she has those games where she's not passing as well, she finds somewhere on the court to help out our team and she's a great leader, great athlete and all around just a great person."While Stillman was at times dominant, Benton did a great job spreading the wealth offensively Thursday.&nbsp;Sophomore Avery Morlock had seven kills, while freshman Andrea Simmons, sophomore Hollie Peters and senior Gabby Moulden each had six."Every single girl who walks out onto the court for me can play," Doolan said. "We're big, we're strong and I have some great, great girls."Benton, winners of three straight after sweeps over Excelsior Springs Monday and Lathrop Tuesday, will face another intracity rival when they go to Lafayette Monday.After a 4-5 start to the season, Doolan can start to see things coming into form for her team as districts come up in less than a month."That's okay to have those mistakes that we have to correct in the beginning of the season," she pointed out, "because, now we're starting to fix those things toward the end and this is where I want to catch that momentum, that stride and I want to be ready to go into districts and win."LeBlond was led Thursday by senior Kianna Herrera, who had 12 kills for the Eagles (12-3). Junior Sadie Ward had six kills and two aces.LeBlond goes home Tuesday for the LeBlond varsity tournament. They'll face West Platte Tuesday&nbsp; at 5 p.m. and Lafayette Thursday at 7 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633055525341.jpeg" alt="Avery Morlock (right) sets the ball." />
 <figcaption>Avery Morlock (right) sets the ball.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633055552830.jpeg" alt="Benton celebrates a point in the fourth set." />
 <figcaption>Benton celebrates a point in the fourth set.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633055598581.jpeg" alt="Kianna Herrera (right) knocks a ball over the net in the second set." />
 <figcaption>Kianna Herrera (right) knocks a ball over the net in the second set.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633055628991.jpeg" alt="Hollie Peters serves." />
 <figcaption>Hollie Peters serves.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Benton recovers from slow start, storms back to beat LeBlond in four sets Thursday

Missouri Western State University's senior associate director of athletics for external affairs&nbsp;Brett Esely has accepted an offer from the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau to become the director of development/director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission.

After more than two decades of service with the University, Esely will step away in November and officially join the CVB on January 3.

"This is definitely a bittersweet decision," Esely said in a statement Thursday. "I love Missouri Western, I'm proud of what Griffon Athletics has accomplished, and I know there are bigger and better things ahead. But working with the St. Joseph Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau gives me an opportunity to do something I'm passionate about while staying in the community where I grew up."

Esely started as a student assistant men's basketball coach for MWSU in July 2000. He moved into administration in 2003, overseeing NCAA compliance and ticketing before taking on the external affairs role in 2007.

He oversees the athletic department's marketing, advertising, public relations, corporate partnerships and event management. Esely has led event operations for Chiefs Summer Training Camp, helped run many MIAA conference and NCAA championship events and has served as public address announcer and color commentator on Griffon radio broadcasts.

"Brett has been an integral part of Griffon Athletics for more than two decades and has helped elevate our department to what it is today," said Missouri Western president Elizabeth Kennedy. "While we are saddened to lose his daily presence and expertise, I am pleased that he will remain in St. Joseph, working with us and other partners to enhance our community."

Esely led a record-setting Gold Coat Drive in the middle of a pandemic in 2020-21 and conducted four straight record-setting Charity Golf Classics. He helped revive the St. Joseph Sports Commission in recent years, including efforts to create the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame, which conducted its inaugural induction ceremony on Sept. 19.&nbsp;

 "Through all of these responsibilities, Brett has maintained his focus on creating a first-class experience for our student-athletes, coaches, donors and fans and certainly been one of our program's biggest supporters," said Missouri Western interim athletic director&nbsp;Theresa Grosbach. "This is an incredible opportunity for Brett to make a daily impact on the community of St. Joseph in an entirely new way, while maintaining a connection to sports and Griffon Athletics."&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1633030623845.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western State University's senior associate director of athletics for external affairs&nbsp;Brett Esely has accepted an offer from the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau to become the director of development/director of the St. Joseph Sports Commission.After more than two decades of service with the University, Esely will step away in November and officially join the CVB on January 3."This is definitely a bittersweet decision," Esely said in a statement Thursday. "I love Missouri Western, I'm proud of what Griffon Athletics has accomplished, and I know there are bigger and better things ahead. But working with the St. Joseph Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau gives me an opportunity to do something I'm passionate about while staying in the community where I grew up."Esely started as a student assistant men's basketball coach for MWSU in July 2000. He moved into administration in 2003, overseeing NCAA compliance and ticketing before taking on the external affairs role in 2007.He oversees the athletic department's marketing, advertising, public relations, corporate partnerships and event management. Esely has led event operations for Chiefs Summer Training Camp, helped run many MIAA conference and NCAA championship events and has served as public address announcer and color commentator on Griffon radio broadcasts."Brett has been an integral part of Griffon Athletics for more than two decades and has helped elevate our department to what it is today," said Missouri Western president Elizabeth Kennedy. "While we are saddened to lose his daily presence and expertise, I am pleased that he will remain in St. Joseph, working with us and other partners to enhance our community."Esely led a record-setting Gold Coat Drive in the middle of a pandemic in 2020-21 and conducted four straight record-setting Charity Golf Classics. He helped revive the St. Joseph Sports Commission in recent years, including efforts to create the St. Joseph Area Sports Hall of Fame, which conducted its inaugural induction ceremony on Sept. 19.&nbsp; "Through all of these responsibilities, Brett has maintained his focus on creating a first-class experience for our student-athletes, coaches, donors and fans and certainly been one of our program's biggest supporters," said Missouri Western interim athletic director&nbsp;Theresa Grosbach. "This is an incredible opportunity for Brett to make a daily impact on the community of St. Joseph in an entirely new way, while maintaining a connection to sports and Griffon Athletics."&nbsp;&nbsp;

MWSU's Brett Esely taking new role with St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau

Lafayette seniors Jaron Saunders and Kingston Oliver made school and state history earlier this season in a week two football game against Atchison, KS.

Saunders threw for a staggering 698 yards in a 50-21 at Atchison on September 3rd - a new school and state record. His top target that night was Oliver, who had 398 receiving yards - also a state record.

State Senator Tony Luetkemeyer, representing Platte and Buchanan Counties, had read about the accomplishment soon after it happened, and wanted to honor the Irish with a Senate resolution.

He presented Saunders and Oliver with that resolution at Lafayette's football practice on Wednesday afternoon.

"I had seen that both of these guys had set not only the school record, but also the state record for single-game passing and receiving yards," Luetkemeyer said. "I said, 'We have to do something special.' So, we were able to get a couple of senate resolutions for them. It's just a small token of appreciation to show them the honor and respect that the Missouri Senate has for their great accomplishment."

Saunders was honored to get such a recognition from the state level.

"It shows that people care about us and shows that in Missouri, we have good representation," Saunders said. "Obviously, he's from the Senate, so that's huge for us, knowing that the representation from Missouri comes out and shows their support. It shows we have people from all around who are backing us here."

Oliver gives credit to his teammates for making such a record and achievement possible.

"It just feels good," he said. "Them guys helped me get the record by opening me up. The chemistry with Jaron, it's been like that since 5th grade, so it's just coming to light now."

Oliver also had four touchdown catches against Atchison, which tied the single-game state record also.

As nice as the honor is, Saunders says he and the team are looking ahead to bigger things, as the Irish get set for a key, MEC battle at Chillicothe (3-2) this Friday, and then home games against Cameron (1-4) and St. Pius X (5-0) in the weeks to follow.

"I mean, the feeling of it is always great," Saunders said of the record. "But, we're trying to move on to bigger and better things from that. We're trying to win an MEC title right now and hopefully go onto a district title and hopefully just keep going forward from there."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632961227792.jpeg" alt="Jaron Saunders (left), Senator Lutkemeyer (center) and Kingston Oliver (right). Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Jaron Saunders (left), Senator Lutkemeyer (center) and Kingston Oliver (right). Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostLafayette seniors Jaron Saunders and Kingston Oliver made school and state history earlier this season in a week two football game against Atchison, KS.Saunders threw for a staggering 698 yards in a 50-21 at Atchison on September 3rd - a new school and state record. His top target that night was Oliver, who had 398 receiving yards - also a state record.State Senator Tony Luetkemeyer, representing Platte and Buchanan Counties, had read about the accomplishment soon after it happened, and wanted to honor the Irish with a Senate resolution.He presented Saunders and Oliver with that resolution at Lafayette's football practice on Wednesday afternoon."I had seen that both of these guys had set not only the school record, but also the state record for single-game passing and receiving yards," Luetkemeyer said. "I said, 'We have to do something special.' So, we were able to get a couple of senate resolutions for them. It's just a small token of appreciation to show them the honor and respect that the Missouri Senate has for their great accomplishment."Saunders was honored to get such a recognition from the state level."It shows that people care about us and shows that in Missouri, we have good representation," Saunders said. "Obviously, he's from the Senate, so that's huge for us, knowing that the representation from Missouri comes out and shows their support. It shows we have people from all around who are backing us here."Oliver gives credit to his teammates for making such a record and achievement possible."It just feels good," he said. "Them guys helped me get the record by opening me up. The chemistry with Jaron, it's been like that since 5th grade, so it's just coming to light now."Oliver also had four touchdown catches against Atchison, which tied the single-game state record also.As nice as the honor is, Saunders says he and the team are looking ahead to bigger things, as the Irish get set for a key, MEC battle at Chillicothe (3-2) this Friday, and then home games against Cameron (1-4) and St. Pius X (5-0) in the weeks to follow."I mean, the feeling of it is always great," Saunders said of the record. "But, we're trying to move on to bigger and better things from that. We're trying to win an MEC title right now and hopefully go onto a district title and hopefully just keep going forward from there."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632962427566.jpeg" alt="Jaron Saunders (left), left tackle Quentin Garrett (center) and Kingston Oliver (right). Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Jaron Saunders (left), left tackle Quentin Garrett (center) and Kingston Oliver (right). Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Luetkemeyer honors Lafayette's Saunders, Oliver with resolution for state records

The Kansas City Royals announced Wednesday that centerfielder Michael A. Taylor has signed a two-year extension that will cover the 2022-23 seasons.

The extension is reportedly worth $9 million with $500,000 in incentives.

In 137 games with the Royals this season, Taylor has 12 home runs and 14 stolen bases, and is one game shy of matching his career-high of games played with Washington in 2015.

"My family and I have both enjoyed the city and the organization," Taylor said. "I've been saying all year that it's filled with great people top to bottom and we're looking forward to the years to come."

Taylor has a career-high 56 runs this season and his 52 RBI are his most since recording 53 in 2017.

"For our team to continue to take steps forward and to have Michael A. as a part of it for the next two years will be really, really important," Royals general manager Dayton Moore said. "As we look to get better and ultimately compete to win our division and be back where want to be, which is in the playoffs competing for a World Series."

Taylor leads the Majors with 21 defensive runs saved, according to&nbsp;FanGraphs, and his 14 outs above average are tied for the Majors lead among all outfielders.

"His line drive rates are above average," Moore said. "He continues to get better in many different areas and can help us win in multiple ways."

Taylor leads all centerfielders with a career-high 11 outfield assists, which are the most by a Royals center fielder since&nbsp;Melky Cabrera&nbsp;had 13 in 2011.

The 30-year-old Taylor signed with Kansas City last offseason as a free agent after spending the first seven seasons of his MLB career with the Washington Nationals, who picked him in the sixth round of the 2009 First-Year Player Draft.

He eventually won a World Series with Washington in 2019. After becoming a free agent at the end of the COVID-shortened 2020 season, Taylor said he had certain things in mind when deciding where to go next.

"An organization that's committed to winning," he said. "An organization that's moving in the right direction. Beyond that, just core values are important to me. You want to be somewhere where you look forward to showing up to work every day."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632950491247.jpeg" alt="Michael A. Taylor (left) on a Zoom press conference with Royals GM Dayton Moore (right)." />
 <figcaption>Michael A. Taylor (left) on a Zoom press conference with Royals GM Dayton Moore (right).</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals announced Wednesday that centerfielder Michael A. Taylor has signed a two-year extension that will cover the 2022-23 seasons.The extension is reportedly worth $9 million with $500,000 in incentives.In 137 games with the Royals this season, Taylor has 12 home runs and 14 stolen bases, and is one game shy of matching his career-high of games played with Washington in 2015."My family and I have both enjoyed the city and the organization," Taylor said. "I've been saying all year that it's filled with great people top to bottom and we're looking forward to the years to come."Taylor has a career-high 56 runs this season and his 52 RBI are his most since recording 53 in 2017."For our team to continue to take steps forward and to have Michael A. as a part of it for the next two years will be really, really important," Royals general manager Dayton Moore said. "As we look to get better and ultimately compete to win our division and be back where want to be, which is in the playoffs competing for a World Series."Taylor leads the Majors with 21 defensive runs saved, according to&nbsp;FanGraphs, and his 14 outs above average are tied for the Majors lead among all outfielders."His line drive rates are above average," Moore said. "He continues to get better in many different areas and can help us win in multiple ways."Taylor leads all centerfielders with a career-high 11 outfield assists, which are the most by a Royals center fielder since&nbsp;Melky Cabrera&nbsp;had 13 in 2011.The 30-year-old Taylor signed with Kansas City last offseason as a free agent after spending the first seven seasons of his MLB career with the Washington Nationals, who picked him in the sixth round of the 2009 First-Year Player Draft.He eventually won a World Series with Washington in 2019. After becoming a free agent at the end of the COVID-shortened 2020 season, Taylor said he had certain things in mind when deciding where to go next."An organization that's committed to winning," he said. "An organization that's moving in the right direction. Beyond that, just core values are important to me. You want to be somewhere where you look forward to showing up to work every day."

Royals extend centerfielder Michael A. Taylor for two years

Spectators at the St. Joseph Central-Lafayette football game at Noyes Field last Friday were greeted by metal detectors at the entrances.

It's a new security measure that was put in place by the St. Joseph School District on September 24 following a scary situation at the Lafayette-Savannah game the week before.

Robert Sigrist, director of non-academic services for the district, says local law enforcement apprehended a 17-year-old at Alumni Stadium, who was in possession of a firearm.&nbsp;Two juveniles were arrested at the stadium in connection to a shooting in the 5500 block of Pryor Avenue&nbsp;that same night.

"One of our SROs noticed those individuals at the game," Sigrist recalled, "which was great that he was aware and had that ability to discern that. Turned out one of those individuals was in possession of a gun, so it was a bit of a tense situation."

Officer Herrera and Detective McGinnis of the St. Joseph Police Department responded to the situation, as did Officer Dudick of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, who was off duty, but was at the game watching his son, Ethan, compete for Savannah.

The teenager faces a Class B felony of unlawful use of a weapon in Buchanan County Juvenile Court. Weapons are also prohibited on St. Joseph School District property.

After the incident, Sigrist said school officials had a serious discussion about what to do increase security at football games. Metal detectors were soon ordered, and put in place at all three of the district's football fields - all done in enough time before the next game on Sept. 24.

"We were fortunate with the way supply chains are right now to get that turned around and done very quickly," Sigrist said. "We were able to have that in place last Friday night for the Central-Lafayette game."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632941802109.jpeg" alt="Dr. Robert Sigrist discusses increased security at St. Joseph School District football games. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Robert Sigrist discusses increased security at St. Joseph School District football games. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSpectators at the St. Joseph Central-Lafayette football game at Noyes Field last Friday were greeted by metal detectors at the entrances.It's a new security measure that was put in place by the St. Joseph School District on September 24 following a scary situation at the Lafayette-Savannah game the week before.Robert Sigrist, director of non-academic services for the district, says local law enforcement apprehended a 17-year-old at Alumni Stadium, who was in possession of a firearm.&nbsp;Two juveniles were arrested at the stadium in connection to a shooting in the 5500 block of Pryor Avenue&nbsp;that same night."One of our SROs noticed those individuals at the game," Sigrist recalled, "which was great that he was aware and had that ability to discern that. Turned out one of those individuals was in possession of a gun, so it was a bit of a tense situation."Officer Herrera and Detective McGinnis of the St. Joseph Police Department responded to the situation, as did Officer Dudick of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, who was off duty, but was at the game watching his son, Ethan, compete for Savannah.The teenager faces a Class B felony of unlawful use of a weapon in Buchanan County Juvenile Court. Weapons are also prohibited on St. Joseph School District property.After the incident, Sigrist said school officials had a serious discussion about what to do increase security at football games. Metal detectors were soon ordered, and put in place at all three of the district's football fields - all done in enough time before the next game on Sept. 24."We were fortunate with the way supply chains are right now to get that turned around and done very quickly," Sigrist said. "We were able to have that in place last Friday night for the Central-Lafayette game."All went well, as dozens of fans packed the stands to watch Central beat Lafayette 63-56 in overtime at Noyes Field. Sigrist said fans were pretty understanding and cooperative about the changes."I think most people understand that if you go to a game at Arrowhead or you go to a concert or the courthouse, being wanded in and going through a metal detector and emptying your pockets is not something that's a foreign concept to most of us."Sigrist says the metal detectors will only be implemented at the school district's football games for the time being."That's where our largest crowds are," he said. "Obviously, it's where we've had a concern. So, I'm not saying that it wouldn't be on the table, but right now, we're not looking at moving it beyond that."As troubling as the incident was at the Lafayette-Savannah game, Sigrist expresses gratitude that nobody was hurt and that football fans who watch games within the St. Joseph School District can have a little more peace of mind when they arrive at the stadium."At least we will have a little bit more confidence that our events will be more safe and there will be nobody with weapons at the game."You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.