Northwest Missouri State head teniis coach Mark&nbsp;Rosewell&nbsp;became the first Bearcat coach in any sport to record 1,200 victories at the school after his No. 10-ranked women's tennis team took down No. 32-ranked Missouri Western, 4-3 in Maryville Wednesday. Rosewell&nbsp;has posted a mark of 614-296 in women's tennis and 586-274 in men's tennis at Northwest.&nbsp;Rosewell's&nbsp;combined coaching record at Northwest is 1,200-570 for a .678 winning percentage.

Rosewell&nbsp;gained 22 coaching wins at Central Missouri prior to taking over at Northwest in 1984.&nbsp;Rosewell's&nbsp;overall coaching record sits at 1,222-1,797 when factoring in his two seasons at UCM and 39 years at Northwest. On Wednesday, the Bearcat women improved to 17-3 overall and concluded a perfect&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;dual mark at 8-0.&nbsp;Rosewell&nbsp;has led the Northwest tennis teams to a combined 28&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;regular season championships (15 men, 13 women). The Northwest women have won 11 consecutive dual matches this spring. The 11-match win streak ties for the fourth-longest in program history. Since March 1, Northwest has won 14 of its 15 dual matches. It was as easy as 1, 2 and 3 in doubles went for the Bearcats. Northwest and MWSU split the six singles matches. Missouri Western's record sits at 12-5 overall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681386471082.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy of Northwest athletics." />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Northwest athletics.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostNorthwest Missouri State head teniis coach Mark&nbsp;Rosewell&nbsp;became the first Bearcat coach in any sport to record 1,200 victories at the school after his No. 10-ranked women's tennis team took down No. 32-ranked Missouri Western, 4-3 in Maryville Wednesday. Rosewell&nbsp;has posted a mark of 614-296 in women's tennis and 586-274 in men's tennis at Northwest.&nbsp;Rosewell's&nbsp;combined coaching record at Northwest is 1,200-570 for a .678 winning percentage.Rosewell&nbsp;gained 22 coaching wins at Central Missouri prior to taking over at Northwest in 1984.&nbsp;Rosewell's&nbsp;overall coaching record sits at 1,222-1,797 when factoring in his two seasons at UCM and 39 years at Northwest. On Wednesday, the Bearcat women improved to 17-3 overall and concluded a perfect&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;dual mark at 8-0.&nbsp;Rosewell&nbsp;has led the Northwest tennis teams to a combined 28&nbsp;MIAA&nbsp;regular season championships (15 men, 13 women). The Northwest women have won 11 consecutive dual matches this spring. The 11-match win streak ties for the fourth-longest in program history. Since March 1, Northwest has won 14 of its 15 dual matches. It was as easy as 1, 2 and 3 in doubles went for the Bearcats. Northwest and MWSU split the six singles matches. Missouri Western's record sits at 12-5 overall.

Northwest tennis coach Mark Rosewell secures 1200th career win, Bearcats beat MWSU

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — MJ Meléndez drove in three runs to back another strong outing from Brad Keller, and the Kansas City Royals avoided a three-game sweep with a 10-1 rout of the Texas Rangers. 

The Rangers had their second three-game winning streak of the season stopped on the day they learned star shortstop Corey Seager would miss at least four weeks with a hamstring strain.&nbsp;

Vinnie Pasquantino homered, and Bobby Witt Jr. had an RBI triple among three hits against his hometown team. The Royals ended a three-game losing streak with season highs in runs and hits.

The Royals next take on the Braves Friday evening with first pitch at 7:10. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — MJ Meléndez drove in three runs to back another strong outing from Brad Keller, and the Kansas City Royals avoided a three-game sweep with a 10-1 rout of the Texas Rangers. The Rangers had their second three-game winning streak of the season stopped on the day they learned star shortstop Corey Seager would miss at least four weeks with a hamstring strain.&nbsp;Vinnie Pasquantino homered, and Bobby Witt Jr. had an RBI triple among three hits against his hometown team. The Royals ended a three-game losing streak with season highs in runs and hits.The Royals next take on the Braves Friday evening with first pitch at 7:10. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Keller strong, Royals avoid sweep with 10-1 rout of Rangers

GOWER - East Buchanan senior and basketball star Gracie Kelsey had been verbally committed to Drury University women's basketball since last September. She signed with the Panthers on November 29.

Little did Kelsey know, at the time, that Drury's now former coach Amy Eagan would become the new head coach at Division I Lindenwood University this past March.

"She gave us all a call and said, 'I'm going to Lindenwood,'" Kelsey said of her conversation with Eagan. "We all had options. We can stay, we can go, we can find something different. I believe in her and her ability to coach a really good program."

Kelsey made her decision public Tuesday via Twitter, announcing her commitment to the Lindenwood Lions out of St. Charles, Missouri - a school in the Ohio Valley Conference that's still in its first year of DI competition.

Lindenwood women's basketball is now being led by Eagan, who left Drury after three outstanding years as head coach. In three years with the Panthers, Eagan compiled an 87-9 record and won a GLVC Conference title in each of those seasons.

Kelsey is excited to be getting in on the ground floor at Lindenwood - a Lions program that'll be entering its second year of DI competition this fall with a new, up-and-coming head coach at the helm.

"It's an opportunity to do something different and stay with Coach Eagan," Kelsey said. "She was the one who recruited me and believed in me. So, being able to have that trust with one another is super great."

Kelsey goes down in the East Buchanan record books as one of the best basketball players to ever wear the blue and gold. She's the program's all-time leader in rebounding with 1,013. She's also second all-time in scoring with 1,766 points, despite missing her sophomore year with injury.

Still, Kelsey helped lead the Bulldogs to three district titles in the last four years and a state championship in 2020.

"The ability to impact a program and the things that she did for us on both ends of the floor," East Buchanan girls' basketball coach Kori Elms said. "Everyone talks about her offense, but if you look at what she did defensively to alter shots, she just did a nice job on both ends. Her ability to rebound. Those things always stand out, but the one thing that always stands out to me is her ability to be coachable."

Kelsey's senior season ended with a 23-5 record and a close 52-46 loss to South Harrison in state sectionals - a season where Kelsey scoring at least 30 points a night was not uncommon. Elms says her star senior took it all in stride - a characteristic that'll no doubt help Kelsey succeed at the next level.

"As we went into every game, we knew teams would focus on her," Elms said. "I thought she carried herself well as a teammate."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681326471810.jpeg" alt="Photo by Matt Pike." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Matt Pike.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostGOWER - East Buchanan senior and basketball star Gracie Kelsey had been verbally committed to Drury University women's basketball since last September. She signed with the Panthers on November 29.Little did Kelsey know, at the time, that Drury's now former coach Amy Eagan would become the new head coach at Division I Lindenwood University this past March."She gave us all a call and said, 'I'm going to Lindenwood,'" Kelsey said of her conversation with Eagan. "We all had options. We can stay, we can go, we can find something different. I believe in her and her ability to coach a really good program."Kelsey made her decision public Tuesday via Twitter, announcing her commitment to the Lindenwood Lions out of St. Charles, Missouri - a school in the Ohio Valley Conference that's still in its first year of DI competition.Lindenwood women's basketball is now being led by Eagan, who left Drury after three outstanding years as head coach. In three years with the Panthers, Eagan compiled an 87-9 record and won a GLVC Conference title in each of those seasons.Kelsey is excited to be getting in on the ground floor at Lindenwood - a Lions program that'll be entering its second year of DI competition this fall with a new, up-and-coming head coach at the helm."It's an opportunity to do something different and stay with Coach Eagan," Kelsey said. "She was the one who recruited me and believed in me. So, being able to have that trust with one another is super great."Kelsey goes down in the East Buchanan record books as one of the best basketball players to ever wear the blue and gold. She's the program's all-time leader in rebounding with 1,013. She's also second all-time in scoring with 1,766 points, despite missing her sophomore year with injury.Still, Kelsey helped lead the Bulldogs to three district titles in the last four years and a state championship in 2020."The ability to impact a program and the things that she did for us on both ends of the floor," East Buchanan girls' basketball coach Kori Elms said. "Everyone talks about her offense, but if you look at what she did defensively to alter shots, she just did a nice job on both ends. Her ability to rebound. Those things always stand out, but the one thing that always stands out to me is her ability to be coachable."Kelsey's senior season ended with a 23-5 record and a close 52-46 loss to South Harrison in state sectionals - a season where Kelsey scoring at least 30 points a night was not uncommon. Elms says her star senior took it all in stride - a characteristic that'll no doubt help Kelsey succeed at the next level."As we went into every game, we knew teams would focus on her," Elms said. "I thought she carried herself well as a teammate."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681326239321.jpeg" alt="Stock photo by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

East Buchanan's Gracie Kelsey flips commitment to Lindenwood

Baseball Fort Osage 8 St. Joseph Central 6 East Buchanan 8 St. Joseph Christian 7 Park Hill 3 Benton 0 Hamilton 5 Bishop LeBlond 0 Maryville 7 Savannah 3 Nodaway Valley 11 North Andrew 1 Stewartsville-Osborn 6 East Atchison 2 Girls’ soccer Smithville 8 St. Joseph Central 0 Boys’ tennis Benton 9 Lafayette 0 St. Joseph Central 5 Liberty 4

Track and field Complete coverage of the St. Joseph City Track Meet <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/d6df81a6-8e58-495d-a46c-fc7922c5a536">can be found here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681301669891.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBaseball Fort Osage 8 St. Joseph Central 6 East Buchanan 8 St. Joseph Christian 7 Park Hill 3 Benton 0 Hamilton 5 Bishop LeBlond 0 Maryville 7 Savannah 3 Nodaway Valley 11 North Andrew 1 Stewartsville-Osborn 6 East Atchison 2 Girls’ soccer Smithville 8 St. Joseph Central 0 Boys’ tennis Benton 9 Lafayette 0 St. Joseph Central 5 Liberty 4Track and field Complete coverage of the St. Joseph City Track Meet <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/d6df81a6-8e58-495d-a46c-fc7922c5a536">can be found here</a>.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - April 11, 2023

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Jonah Heim hit a three-run homer in the 10th inning and the Texas Rangers beat Kansas City 8-5. 

Jacob deGrom earlier in the game had nine strikeouts to break a Texas record that had been held by Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan. Adolis Garcia tied the game with a two-out RBI single and Josh Jung then walked before Heim's 403-foot drive to right off Scott Barlow. 

While deGrom ended up with a no-decision, the nine Ks pushed his season total to 27 and set a new mark for a Rangers pitcher in his first three appearances — that had been Ryan’s 26 after he joined the team in 1989.

The Royals take on the Rangers again Wednesday evening with first pitch at 7:05. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Jonah Heim hit a three-run homer in the 10th inning and the Texas Rangers beat Kansas City 8-5. Jacob deGrom earlier in the game had nine strikeouts to break a Texas record that had been held by Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan. Adolis Garcia tied the game with a two-out RBI single and Josh Jung then walked before Heim's 403-foot drive to right off Scott Barlow. While deGrom ended up with a no-decision, the nine Ks pushed his season total to 27 and set a new mark for a Rangers pitcher in his first three appearances — that had been Ryan’s 26 after he joined the team in 1989.The Royals take on the Rangers again Wednesday evening with first pitch at 7:05. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Heim HR in 10th gives Rangers win over KC after deGrom 9 Ks

The St. Joseph city high school track meet was held on Tuesday afternoon at Central's Noyes Field.

Central, Benton, Lafayette and Bishop LeBlond all took part in the meet.

Benton's Jerzey Ziolkowski won the girls' 100 meter dash with a time of 13.44 seconds. She also won girls' long jump with a leap of 4.96 meters.

Lafayette's Honor Mannings took first in the girls' 200 meter dash at 26.86 seconds. She also won girls' 300 meter hurdles with a time of 51.82 seconds.

Shadai Ndamboma won a couple of field events for Central. He took first in the boys' triple jump with a distance of 12.37 meters. He also won boys' high jump, clearing 1.83 meters.

Central's Makenzie Garr was also outstanding in field events. She took first with a girls' discus throw of 37.32 meters. She also won girls' discus with a toss of 12.43 meters.

The Central boys took first in the 4x200 (1:39.17) and 4x400 (3:43.77) meter relays.

The Benton girls won the 4x200 (1:56.46), 4x100 (54.31) and 4x400 (4:40.56) relays.

The Benton boys picked up wins in the 4x800 (8:44.85) and 4x100 (45.92) relays.

<a href="http://blacksquirrelresults.com/2023/outdoor/23StJoeCity.pdf">Full results can be viewed here</a>. Photos from the meet are below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681269673177.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph city high school track meet was held on Tuesday afternoon at Central's Noyes Field.Central, Benton, Lafayette and Bishop LeBlond all took part in the meet.Benton's Jerzey Ziolkowski won the girls' 100 meter dash with a time of 13.44 seconds. She also won girls' long jump with a leap of 4.96 meters.Lafayette's Honor Mannings took first in the girls' 200 meter dash at 26.86 seconds. She also won girls' 300 meter hurdles with a time of 51.82 seconds.Shadai Ndamboma won a couple of field events for Central. He took first in the boys' triple jump with a distance of 12.37 meters. He also won boys' high jump, clearing 1.83 meters.Central's Makenzie Garr was also outstanding in field events. She took first with a girls' discus throw of 37.32 meters. She also won girls' discus with a toss of 12.43 meters.The Central boys took first in the 4x200 (1:39.17) and 4x400 (3:43.77) meter relays.The Benton girls won the 4x200 (1:56.46), 4x100 (54.31) and 4x400 (4:40.56) relays.The Benton boys picked up wins in the 4x800 (8:44.85) and 4x100 (45.92) relays.<a href="http://blacksquirrelresults.com/2023/outdoor/23StJoeCity.pdf">Full results can be viewed here</a>. Photos from the meet are below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681269763266.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681269780875.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681269801723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681269840285.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681269876294.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681269897172.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681269923067.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681269950416.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

St. Joseph City track meet - photos and results from Noyes Field

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Andrew Heaney tied an AL record by striking out nine consecutive batters, Adolis Garcia’s sixth-inning grand slam was one of three Texas home runs and the Rangers routed the Kansas City Royals 11-2. 

Heaney (1-1) began the streak by fanning Matt Duffy and Nicky Lopez to end the first inning, then struck out the side in the second and third innings. 

After Salvador Perez went down swinging leading off the fourth inning, Matt Duffy ended the streak with a flyout to right field. Heaney threw 93 pitches and left after five innings, allowing two runs – one earned – on two hits.

The Royals take on the Rangers again Tuesday evening with first pitch at 7:05. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Andrew Heaney tied an AL record by striking out nine consecutive batters, Adolis Garcia’s sixth-inning grand slam was one of three Texas home runs and the Rangers routed the Kansas City Royals 11-2. Heaney (1-1) began the streak by fanning Matt Duffy and Nicky Lopez to end the first inning, then struck out the side in the second and third innings. After Salvador Perez went down swinging leading off the fourth inning, Matt Duffy ended the streak with a flyout to right field. Heaney threw 93 pitches and left after five innings, allowing two runs – one earned – on two hits.The Royals take on the Rangers again Tuesday evening with first pitch at 7:05. Coverage begins at 6:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Heaney has AL record-tying 9 straight Ks, Rangers top Royals

The Missouri Western women’s basketball team announced Monday that they’re planning a 10-day trip to Greece this summer. 

The Griffons will face international competition, and will have the opportunity for additional practices to prepare for the upcoming season. These are practices they wouldn't have otherwise.

Missouri Western athletics says the team is almost halfway to their fundraising goal of $85,000 to make the trip possible.

The Griffon women will make the trip in August. The team will spend time in Athens and Santorini, and play three total games while there.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681161423921.jpeg" alt="Stock photo by Arianne Boma." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo by Arianne Boma.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Missouri Western women’s basketball team announced Monday that they’re planning a 10-day trip to Greece this summer. The Griffons will face international competition, and will have the opportunity for additional practices to prepare for the upcoming season. These are practices they wouldn't have otherwise.Missouri Western athletics says the team is almost halfway to their fundraising goal of $85,000 to make the trip possible.The Griffon women will make the trip in August. The team will spend time in Athens and Santorini, and play three total games while there.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">The <a href="https://twitter.com/GriffonWBB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GriffonWBB</a> team is planning an international tour that will not only enhance the student-athlete experience but will provide the opportunity for additional practices and competitions. To support this effort, visit <a href="https://t.co/6PQ2BA2TuB">https://t.co/6PQ2BA2TuB</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GriffUp?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GriffUp</a>🦅🦁⬆️ | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayGold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayGold</a>🔔 <a href="https://t.co/Ex15q2FYGd">pic.twitter.com/Ex15q2FYGd</a>&mdash; Missouri Western Athletics (@MWSUGriffons) <a href="https://twitter.com/MWSUGriffons/status/1645495479885602823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
</div>

Missouri Western women's basketball announces summer trip, games in Greece

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino hit his first home run of the season leading off the fourth, Salvador Perez connected in the eighth for his first of 2023 and a key insurance run, and the Kansas City Royals spoiled San Francisco’s home opener by beating the Giants 3-1.

 Nicky Lopez added an RBI single as the Royals backed right-hander Brad Keller in just the second win so far for Kansas City, which had lost three straight and went 1-6 at home to start the season. 

Bench coach Paul Hoover is guiding the Royals with manager Matt Quatraro out after testing positive for COVID-19.

The Royals take on the Giants&nbsp; again Saturday afternoon with first pitch at 3:05. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Vinnie Pasquantino hit his first home run of the season leading off the fourth, Salvador Perez connected in the eighth for his first of 2023 and a key insurance run, and the Kansas City Royals spoiled San Francisco’s home opener by beating the Giants 3-1. Nicky Lopez added an RBI single as the Royals backed right-hander Brad Keller in just the second win so far for Kansas City, which had lost three straight and went 1-6 at home to start the season. Bench coach Paul Hoover is guiding the Royals with manager Matt Quatraro out after testing positive for COVID-19.The Royals take on the Giants&nbsp; again Saturday afternoon with first pitch at 3:05. Coverage begins at 2:30 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Pasquantino, Perez hit home runs as Royals beat Giants 3-1

A minor league football team in St. Joseph is set to open its seventh season of competition this weekend.

The St. Joseph Swarm will take on the First City Cavalry from Leavenworth, Kansas this Saturday at 3 p.m. at Central High School's Noyes Field.&nbsp;Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 6-12.

Jaime Saucedo is the head coach of the Swarm. He and his wife, Jessica, run the organization. He says the purpose of the Swarm is largely player development.

"It's more of a club football team that we're trying to develop into a professional minor league in the next few years," Saucedo told St. Joseph Post. "It's kind of leveled like minor league baseball. There's 3A, 2A, 1A. We're in a 3A league. It's kind of like college football. There's national rankings and those sort of things."

The Swarm played and practiced in Chillicothe for their first five years and made the move to St. Joseph last season. The Swarm compete in the Heartland Football Association, which features teams from Minnesota, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois and Missouri.

The Swarm does a lot of volunteer work in St. Joseph as well, helping the St. Joseph YMCA, the Noyes Home for Children and they helped run the annual Turkey Trot 5K run.

The Swarm&nbsp;started practicing in St. Joseph last season. However, the Swarm didn't have a home field, and they played 15 games on the road.

This year, the Swarm will play nine total regular season games - six of those in St. Joseph. Saucedo says the St. Joseph School District is loaning them both Central's Noyes Field and Benton's Sparks Field for the home games.

"They've been very accommodating in helping us out with anything we need and with communication," Saucedo said of the District . "It's been really good so far."

The Swarm had a successful 10-5 season in 2022, winning a Midwest Regional Football League title and qualifying for the Heartland Football Association Playoffs.

Considered to be a club team that develops players ages 18 and up, the Swarm began recruiting St. Joseph area players to its team last year.

Saucedo says being in St. Joseph has improved the team's overall talent level.

The Swarm currently has 31 players listed on its online roster - many of them from the local area.

"We struggled when in Chillicothe," Saucedo said. "We were like a 1A school in a 6A league. Immediately upon moving to St. Joseph, with the talent around here, 10 wins last season, a lower league championship and making the playoffs in the big leagues."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680892484044.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA minor league football team in St. Joseph is set to open its seventh season of competition this weekend.The St. Joseph Swarm will take on the First City Cavalry from Leavenworth, Kansas this Saturday at 3 p.m. at Central High School's Noyes Field.&nbsp;Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 6-12.Jaime Saucedo is the head coach of the Swarm. He and his wife, Jessica, run the organization. He says the purpose of the Swarm is largely player development."It's more of a club football team that we're trying to develop into a professional minor league in the next few years," Saucedo told St. Joseph Post. "It's kind of leveled like minor league baseball. There's 3A, 2A, 1A. We're in a 3A league. It's kind of like college football. There's national rankings and those sort of things."The Swarm played and practiced in Chillicothe for their first five years and made the move to St. Joseph last season. The Swarm compete in the Heartland Football Association, which features teams from Minnesota, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois and Missouri.The Swarm does a lot of volunteer work in St. Joseph as well, helping the St. Joseph YMCA, the Noyes Home for Children and they helped run the annual Turkey Trot 5K run.The Swarm&nbsp;started practicing in St. Joseph last season. However, the Swarm didn't have a home field, and they played 15 games on the road.This year, the Swarm will play nine total regular season games - six of those in St. Joseph. Saucedo says the St. Joseph School District is loaning them both Central's Noyes Field and Benton's Sparks Field for the home games."They've been very accommodating in helping us out with anything we need and with communication," Saucedo said of the District . "It's been really good so far."The Swarm had a successful 10-5 season in 2022, winning a Midwest Regional Football League title and qualifying for the Heartland Football Association Playoffs.Considered to be a club team that develops players ages 18 and up, the Swarm began recruiting St. Joseph area players to its team last year.Saucedo says being in St. Joseph has improved the team's overall talent level.The Swarm currently has 31 players listed on its online roster - many of them from the local area."We struggled when in Chillicothe," Saucedo said. "We were like a 1A school in a 6A league. Immediately upon moving to St. Joseph, with the talent around here, 10 wins last season, a lower league championship and making the playoffs in the big leagues."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680893225130.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Swarm set to open 2023 season on Saturday at Noyes Field

Lafayette scored six runs through the first two innings, and then eight runs in the third to slam the door on Bishop LeBlond, as the Irish won 16-1 in four innings Thursday at Phil Welch Stadium.

The win snapped what was a seven-game losing skid for the Irish on a day where Lafayette honored their seven seniors on Senior Day.

"Lots of good vibes," Lafayette head coach Matt Jansen said. "This is a memory they'll never forget. They earned it and I'm glad we were able to provide that for them and go out and just play a good baseball game."

LeBlond (1-6) got on the board in the top of the first. Ryland Kussman led off the game with the triple, and he scored on an RBI single from Jackson CDeBaca.

Lafayette (3-8) had the quick answer in the bottom of the first. An RBI double by Carter Bruce scored Drake Losson to knot the game at 1-1.

A dropped fly ball by LeBlond allowed two more runs to score, and the Irish went up 3-1 after the first.

Lafayette did more damage in the bottom of the second. A two-run RBI double to left field by Garrett Duncan was the highlight of another three-run inning for the Irish, as they led 6-1 after two.

Things were not easy for LeBlond offensively, either. The Golden Eagles were held to just three total hits Thursday, and Lafayette starting pitcher Dalton Heater settled in, striking out seven and walking no one.

Heater got the win in three innings of work. Reliever Halen Jonas put LeBlond down in order in the top of the fourth.

"I just had enough confidence to throw strikes," Heater said. "Just because of the defense behind me. We'd been struggling a little bit, but you can tell we're starting to turn it around. I'm excited for it."&nbsp;

Lafayette's offense did their most damage in the third, scoring eight runs on four hits and six walks. The Irish drew 14 free passes Thursday - 13 walks and one hit batter.

The Irish scored a couple of runs in the bottom of the fourth to end the game in mercy rule. In all, 10 different Lafayette players scored a run, and 15 of them got to bat.

"We have been getting punched early in a lot of games," Jansen noted. "It was important that we responded. Not just for momentum, but just for team morale and all that stuff. It was a great day."

Losson was 2-for-2 with two runs scored and two RBIs. Isaac McQuiston, Carter Bruce, Garrett Duncan and Matt Stubbs all scored twice in the game. Braden Jones had a double and two RBIs.

"It's real nice to go out there and get this win for the seniors," Losson said. "Especially with the start we've had to the season. It's good to kind of turn it around."

Lafayette plays at East Buchanan on Monday. LeBlond is home to Plattsburg Monday as well.

"We look forward to East Buchanan on Monday," Jansen said, as East Buchanan scored a 2-1 extra innings win over Plattsburg Thursday to improve to 8-1 overall.

"We want (the momentum) to carry over through this weekend."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680826755528.jpeg" alt="Lafayette's Drake Losson (28) makes contact during Thursday's game against Bishop LeBlond at Phil Welch Stadium. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Lafayette's Drake Losson (28) makes contact during Thursday's game against Bishop LeBlond at Phil Welch Stadium. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostLafayette scored six runs through the first two innings, and then eight runs in the third to slam the door on Bishop LeBlond, as the Irish won 16-1 in four innings Thursday at Phil Welch Stadium.The win snapped what was a seven-game losing skid for the Irish on a day where Lafayette honored their seven seniors on Senior Day."Lots of good vibes," Lafayette head coach Matt Jansen said. "This is a memory they'll never forget. They earned it and I'm glad we were able to provide that for them and go out and just play a good baseball game."LeBlond (1-6) got on the board in the top of the first. Ryland Kussman led off the game with the triple, and he scored on an RBI single from Jackson CDeBaca.Lafayette (3-8) had the quick answer in the bottom of the first. An RBI double by Carter Bruce scored Drake Losson to knot the game at 1-1.A dropped fly ball by LeBlond allowed two more runs to score, and the Irish went up 3-1 after the first.Lafayette did more damage in the bottom of the second. A two-run RBI double to left field by Garrett Duncan was the highlight of another three-run inning for the Irish, as they led 6-1 after two.Things were not easy for LeBlond offensively, either. The Golden Eagles were held to just three total hits Thursday, and Lafayette starting pitcher Dalton Heater settled in, striking out seven and walking no one.Heater got the win in three innings of work. Reliever Halen Jonas put LeBlond down in order in the top of the fourth."I just had enough confidence to throw strikes," Heater said. "Just because of the defense behind me. We'd been struggling a little bit, but you can tell we're starting to turn it around. I'm excited for it."&nbsp;Lafayette's offense did their most damage in the third, scoring eight runs on four hits and six walks. The Irish drew 14 free passes Thursday - 13 walks and one hit batter.The Irish scored a couple of runs in the bottom of the fourth to end the game in mercy rule. In all, 10 different Lafayette players scored a run, and 15 of them got to bat."We have been getting punched early in a lot of games," Jansen noted. "It was important that we responded. Not just for momentum, but just for team morale and all that stuff. It was a great day."Losson was 2-for-2 with two runs scored and two RBIs. Isaac McQuiston, Carter Bruce, Garrett Duncan and Matt Stubbs all scored twice in the game. Braden Jones had a double and two RBIs."It's real nice to go out there and get this win for the seniors," Losson said. "Especially with the start we've had to the season. It's good to kind of turn it around."Lafayette plays at East Buchanan on Monday. LeBlond is home to Plattsburg Monday as well."We look forward to East Buchanan on Monday," Jansen said, as East Buchanan scored a 2-1 extra innings win over Plattsburg Thursday to improve to 8-1 overall."We want (the momentum) to carry over through this weekend."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680827798092.jpeg" alt="Braden Jones slides into home." />
 <figcaption>Braden Jones slides into home.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680828241888.jpeg" alt="Carter Bruce (11) celebrates as Isaac McQuison runs home." />
 <figcaption>Carter Bruce (11) celebrates as Isaac McQuison runs home.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680828258404.jpeg" alt="Dalton Heater." />
 <figcaption>Dalton Heater.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680828279494.jpeg" alt="Halen Jonas." />
 <figcaption>Halen Jonas.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Lafayette baseball takes care of Bishop LeBlond in four innings Thursday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kevin Gausman pitched six scoreless innings, Vlad Guerrero Jr. and Cavan Biggio hit home runs and the Toronto Blue Jays won their third straight game, 6-3, over the Kansas City Royals to take the four-game series. 

Gausman gave up just four hits to the struggling Royals, striking out seven and walking two. Kansas City did not have a runner reach second base until the sixth inning. 

The Royals scored three runs in the eighth to avoid their fourth shutout of the season. Adam Cimber earned his first save. Jordan Lyles took the loss. He allowed five runs on eight hits in 5 2/3 innings.

The Royals next take on the Giants Friday afternoon with first pitch at 3:35. Coverage begins at 3:00 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kevin Gausman pitched six scoreless innings, Vlad Guerrero Jr. and Cavan Biggio hit home runs and the Toronto Blue Jays won their third straight game, 6-3, over the Kansas City Royals to take the four-game series. Gausman gave up just four hits to the struggling Royals, striking out seven and walking two. Kansas City did not have a runner reach second base until the sixth inning. The Royals scored three runs in the eighth to avoid their fourth shutout of the season. Adam Cimber earned his first save. Jordan Lyles took the loss. He allowed five runs on eight hits in 5 2/3 innings.The Royals next take on the Giants Friday afternoon with first pitch at 3:35. Coverage begins at 3:00 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Gausman leads Blue Jays to 3rd straight win over Royals, 6-3

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Alek Manoah allowed one hit over seven innings, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit his first homer of the season and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Kansas City Royals 3-0. 

Manoah (1-0) held the Royals hitless until Jackie Bradley Jr. singled with one out in the fifth. Despite struggling to locate his off-speed pitches for strikes, Manoah struck out five with four walks. 

Guerrero and Daulton Varsho had three hits apiece. Zack Greinke (0-2) worked ahead of batters all night, throwing first-pitch strikes to 20-of-25 hitters.

The Royals face the Blue Jays again Thursday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Alek Manoah allowed one hit over seven innings, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. hit his first homer of the season and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Kansas City Royals 3-0. Manoah (1-0) held the Royals hitless until Jackie Bradley Jr. singled with one out in the fifth. Despite struggling to locate his off-speed pitches for strikes, Manoah struck out five with four walks. Guerrero and Daulton Varsho had three hits apiece. Zack Greinke (0-2) worked ahead of batters all night, throwing first-pitch strikes to 20-of-25 hitters.The Royals face the Blue Jays again Thursday afternoon with first pitch at 1:10 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph.

Manoah, Blue Jays blank Royals 3-0, Guerrero hits first HR

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Yusei Kikuchi and four relievers limited Kansas City to one run on four hits and the Toronto Blue Jays snapped a three-game losing streak with a 4-1 victory over the Royals. 

Matt Chapman was 3-for-4 with a double for Toronto, and Whit Merrifield doubled and scored the go-ahead run in his first appearance at Kauffman Stadium since he was traded to the Blue Jays last August. 

Kikuchi allowed one run on three hits and retired the side in order three times over his five innings. Jordan Romano pitched a perfect ninth for his second save. Kris Bubic (0-1) took the loss.

The Royals take on the Blue Jays again Wednesday evening with first pitch at 6:40. Pregame begins at 6:00 on 680 KFEQ.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Yusei Kikuchi and four relievers limited Kansas City to one run on four hits and the Toronto Blue Jays snapped a three-game losing streak with a 4-1 victory over the Royals. Matt Chapman was 3-for-4 with a double for Toronto, and Whit Merrifield doubled and scored the go-ahead run in his first appearance at Kauffman Stadium since he was traded to the Blue Jays last August. Kikuchi allowed one run on three hits and retired the side in order three times over his five innings. Jordan Romano pitched a perfect ninth for his second save. Kris Bubic (0-1) took the loss.The Royals take on the Blue Jays again Wednesday evening with first pitch at 6:40. Pregame begins at 6:00 on 680 KFEQ.

Toronto ends 3-game skid in Whit Merrifield's return to KC

Senior and basketball standout Mikey Thomas left his mark on Lafayette history during his high school career, helping the Irish to three district titles and a third place finish at state this past March.

Now, Thomas hopes to leave his mark in the college game.

Thomas signed his letter of intent Tuesday to play at North Central Missouri College in Trenton. Thomas announced his verbal commitment to NCMC on March 28th.

He says it’s a special opportunity to continue his athletic and academic career.

"It means everything," Thomas said to KQTV. "It means I can continue playing basketball for two more years, which is a blessing. I mean, if I do good enough there, I'll get to play for another two years. It's a good opportunity for me. To get a free education is something not everyone gets to do. So, it's a great opportunity."

Thomas says NCMC's loyalty and belief in him were deciding factors in his decision.

"I think they were the first ones to notice me and offer me," he said. "It was a long time ago. I knew they saw something in me and they believed in me."

Thomas helped guide Lafayette to a 23-8 record this past season. Lafayette beat Father Tolton 78-57 in the Class 4 third place game in Springfield back on March 17th. Thomas had 12 points, nine assists, four steals and a blocked shot in that game.

Thomas earned all-MEC, all-district and all-city honors for his efforts this season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680643027530.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSenior and basketball standout Mikey Thomas left his mark on Lafayette history during his high school career, helping the Irish to three district titles and a third place finish at state this past March.Now, Thomas hopes to leave his mark in the college game.Thomas signed his letter of intent Tuesday to play at North Central Missouri College in Trenton. Thomas announced his verbal commitment to NCMC on March 28th.He says it’s a special opportunity to continue his athletic and academic career."It means everything," Thomas said to KQTV. "It means I can continue playing basketball for two more years, which is a blessing. I mean, if I do good enough there, I'll get to play for another two years. It's a good opportunity for me. To get a free education is something not everyone gets to do. So, it's a great opportunity."Thomas says NCMC's loyalty and belief in him were deciding factors in his decision."I think they were the first ones to notice me and offer me," he said. "It was a long time ago. I knew they saw something in me and they believed in me."Thomas helped guide Lafayette to a 23-8 record this past season. Lafayette beat Father Tolton 78-57 in the Class 4 third place game in Springfield back on March 17th. Thomas had 12 points, nine assists, four steals and a blocked shot in that game.Thomas earned all-MEC, all-district and all-city honors for his efforts this season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680643167345.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680643203838.jpeg" alt="Photo by Clifton Grooms." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Clifton Grooms.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Lafayette's Mikey Thomas signs for NCMC men's basketball Tuesday

Baseball North Platte 8 St. Joseph Christian 5. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/8b357673-7de1-4cea-a43f-61b7ad0a3106">Full coverage here</a>. Cameron 12 Lafayette 2 Fort Osage 8 St. Joseph Central 1 Savannah 15 Lathrop 6 Maryville 13 East Buchanan 0 North Nodaway 16 DeKalb 4

Girls’ soccer Bishop LeBlond 7 Savannah 2 St. Joseph Central 7 William Chrisman 0. Lauren Wells scored six goals. Benton 4 Chillicothe 0

Boys’ golf Maryville won the Lafayette tournament at Moila Country Club with a team score of 350.

Boys’ tennis Maryville 9 Lafayette 0

Track and field Numerous area schools competed in the East Buchanan Invitational. The East Buchanan boys took home the team title with 127 points. Lafayette’s Honor Mannings took gold in the 100 and 300 meter hurdles. St. Joseph Christian’s Charlee Stanley took first in the girls' 400 meter dash. Benton’s Kruz Bigham won the boys’ 800 meter run. In the boys’ 1600 meter run, East Buchanan’s Aidan Hensley crossed the line first. Hensley also won the 3200 meter run.

Staying on the boys’ side, Benton took first in the boys’ 4x100 meter relay. The East Buchanan boys won the 4x800 meter relay. In field events, East Buchanan’s Trey Johnson won the long jump. St. Joseph Christian’s Jaci Jorgenson won girls’ triple jump, while East Buchanan’s Trevor Klein won boys’ triple jump.

Chase Meers picked up another gold medal for East Buchanan in boys’ shot put. Savannah’s Rhyan Shrick took first in girls’ javelin, while Mid-Buchanan’s Jackson Wahlgren took first in boys’ javelin.

FULL results from the East Buchanan Invitational <a href="http://blacksquirrelresults.com/2023/outdoor/23EastBuchanan.pdf">can be found here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680608900079.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBaseball North Platte 8 St. Joseph Christian 5. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/8b357673-7de1-4cea-a43f-61b7ad0a3106">Full coverage here</a>. Cameron 12 Lafayette 2 Fort Osage 8 St. Joseph Central 1 Savannah 15 Lathrop 6 Maryville 13 East Buchanan 0 North Nodaway 16 DeKalb 4Girls’ soccer Bishop LeBlond 7 Savannah 2 St. Joseph Central 7 William Chrisman 0. Lauren Wells scored six goals. Benton 4 Chillicothe 0Boys’ golf Maryville won the Lafayette tournament at Moila Country Club with a team score of 350.Boys’ tennis Maryville 9 Lafayette 0Track and field Numerous area schools competed in the East Buchanan Invitational. The East Buchanan boys took home the team title with 127 points. Lafayette’s Honor Mannings took gold in the 100 and 300 meter hurdles. St. Joseph Christian’s Charlee Stanley took first in the girls' 400 meter dash. Benton’s Kruz Bigham won the boys’ 800 meter run. In the boys’ 1600 meter run, East Buchanan’s Aidan Hensley crossed the line first. Hensley also won the 3200 meter run.Staying on the boys’ side, Benton took first in the boys’ 4x100 meter relay. The East Buchanan boys won the 4x800 meter relay. In field events, East Buchanan’s Trey Johnson won the long jump. St. Joseph Christian’s Jaci Jorgenson won girls’ triple jump, while East Buchanan’s Trevor Klein won boys’ triple jump. Chase Meers picked up another gold medal for East Buchanan in boys’ shot put. Savannah’s Rhyan Shrick took first in girls’ javelin, while Mid-Buchanan’s Jackson Wahlgren took first in boys’ javelin.FULL results from the East Buchanan Invitational <a href="http://blacksquirrelresults.com/2023/outdoor/23EastBuchanan.pdf">can be found here</a>.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - April 3, 2023

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Brady Singer pitched five effective innings, MJ Melendez hit a two-run homer and the Kansas City Royals broke loose early to beat the Toronto Blue Jays 9-5 Monday for their first victory of the season.

Nicky Lopez had a two-run triple and Bobby Witt Jr. delivered a pair of RBI singles as the Royals opened a 7-0 lead in the fourth against José Berríos and gave Matt Quatraro his first win as manager.

Singer allowed just two hits — doubles by Matt Chapman — with three walks and three strikeouts. He is 7-0 with a 1.68 ERA in his last 10 starts at Kauffman Stadium dating to June 26 last year.

The Royals face the Blue Jays again on Tuesday night at 6:40 p.m. Coverage starts at 6 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph. Kris Bubic will start.

St. Joseph PostKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Brady Singer pitched five effective innings, MJ Melendez hit a two-run homer and the Kansas City Royals broke loose early to beat the Toronto Blue Jays 9-5 Monday for their first victory of the season.Nicky Lopez had a two-run triple and Bobby Witt Jr. delivered a pair of RBI singles as the Royals opened a 7-0 lead in the fourth against José Berríos and gave Matt Quatraro his first win as manager.Singer allowed just two hits — doubles by Matt Chapman — with three walks and three strikeouts. He is 7-0 with a 1.68 ERA in his last 10 starts at Kauffman Stadium dating to June 26 last year.The Royals face the Blue Jays again on Tuesday night at 6:40 p.m. Coverage starts at 6 on KFEQ (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph. Kris Bubic will start.

Singer, Lopez lead Royals past Blue Jays for first win of 2023 season

North Platte overcame a frustrating start offensively and hung six runs in the sixth inning to prevail 8-5 over St. Joseph Christian at Victory Field in St. Joseph Monday.

The Panthers (2-3) were held without a hit through the first three innings, as Christian's starting pitcher Nick Orscheln struck out six of his first nine batters faced.

Christian (4-2) got on the board first in the bottom of the first inning, thanks to an RBI single from Blake Ray.

North Platte had the answer in the top of the fourth, leading off that frame with three straight hits, including an RBI single from Colton Kirkham and an RBI double from Chance Garber.

"It felt really good," Garber said. "Coming off of a bad game the last game (against Lawson) and then coming out here and trying to perform and do something for our team is pretty good. We played a hell of a game today."&nbsp;

Trailing 2-1 going to the bottom of the fifth, Christian retook the lead at 4-2, scoring three runs on three hits and two errors in the fifth.

Undaunted, the Panthers made their mark in the sixth, leading off that frame with a single, three straight walks, another single and then a hit batter.

The second single in that sequence was a two-run RBI blast to right field by Ben Jaycox, giving North Platte the lead at 5-4. Subsequent RBIs by Wesley Meadows, Kaden Mullendore and Kirkham put the Panthers up 8-4 after an inning that lasted for 12 at-bats.

"I think at the beginning, we just started off slow," Mullendore said. "Hitting, and making no contact. We were slow getting there, but we found it eventually and got some runs in."

Christian got one run back in the sixth, but Mullendore retired the Lions in four at-bats in the bottom of the seventh to close it out.

Mullendore got the win on the mound, throwing the final 3.2 innings in relief. He struck out five batters and walked only three, while allowing five hits and three earned runs.

Offensively, Garber went 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI. Kirkham went 2-for-4 with a run scored and two RBIs.

"Our kids came through when we needed them to," North Platte head coach Daniel Atkinson said. "So, I'm very proud of them."

Orscheln started on the mound for Christian and struck out nine in four innings. Clabaugh took the loss in middle relief, allowing five runs in the sixth inning.

Sophomore Logan Hubble led the Lions with three runs scored. Johnston Stewart and Orscheln each had a pair of hits, as did Blake Ray.

Christian's pitching staff totaled 12 strikeouts, but the Lions also stranded 10 baserunners offensively.

For North Platte, Monday's win is an early confidence boost. It marks the Panthers' first road win of the season, and it puts them back in the right column after a 2-0 loss at East Buchanan and then a 4-3, eight-inning loss to Lawson at home last week.

"We don't always create the best situation by a mistake here or there," Atkinson pointed out, "but we always compete. I'm trying to keep our kids on that course, because we can win a lot of ballgames by just staying the course and doing what we do."

North Platte heads to University Academy Charter in Kansas City Tuesday. St. Joseph Christian doesn't play again until next Tuesday at East Buchanan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680570342078.jpeg" alt="North Platte catcher Chance Garber (purple) tags out St. Joseph Christian's Levi Miller at home plate on Monday at Victory Field in St. Joseph. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>North Platte catcher Chance Garber (purple) tags out St. Joseph Christian's Levi Miller at home plate on Monday at Victory Field in St. Joseph. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostNorth Platte overcame a frustrating start offensively and hung six runs in the sixth inning to prevail 8-5 over St. Joseph Christian at Victory Field in St. Joseph Monday.The Panthers (2-3) were held without a hit through the first three innings, as Christian's starting pitcher Nick Orscheln struck out six of his first nine batters faced.Christian (4-2) got on the board first in the bottom of the first inning, thanks to an RBI single from Blake Ray.North Platte had the answer in the top of the fourth, leading off that frame with three straight hits, including an RBI single from Colton Kirkham and an RBI double from Chance Garber."It felt really good," Garber said. "Coming off of a bad game the last game (against Lawson) and then coming out here and trying to perform and do something for our team is pretty good. We played a hell of a game today."&nbsp;Trailing 2-1 going to the bottom of the fifth, Christian retook the lead at 4-2, scoring three runs on three hits and two errors in the fifth.Undaunted, the Panthers made their mark in the sixth, leading off that frame with a single, three straight walks, another single and then a hit batter.The second single in that sequence was a two-run RBI blast to right field by Ben Jaycox, giving North Platte the lead at 5-4. Subsequent RBIs by Wesley Meadows, Kaden Mullendore and Kirkham put the Panthers up 8-4 after an inning that lasted for 12 at-bats."I think at the beginning, we just started off slow," Mullendore said. "Hitting, and making no contact. We were slow getting there, but we found it eventually and got some runs in."Christian got one run back in the sixth, but Mullendore retired the Lions in four at-bats in the bottom of the seventh to close it out.Mullendore got the win on the mound, throwing the final 3.2 innings in relief. He struck out five batters and walked only three, while allowing five hits and three earned runs.Offensively, Garber went 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI. Kirkham went 2-for-4 with a run scored and two RBIs."Our kids came through when we needed them to," North Platte head coach Daniel Atkinson said. "So, I'm very proud of them."Orscheln started on the mound for Christian and struck out nine in four innings. Clabaugh took the loss in middle relief, allowing five runs in the sixth inning.Sophomore Logan Hubble led the Lions with three runs scored. Johnston Stewart and Orscheln each had a pair of hits, as did Blake Ray.Christian's pitching staff totaled 12 strikeouts, but the Lions also stranded 10 baserunners offensively.For North Platte, Monday's win is an early confidence boost. It marks the Panthers' first road win of the season, and it puts them back in the right column after a 2-0 loss at East Buchanan and then a 4-3, eight-inning loss to Lawson at home last week."We don't always create the best situation by a mistake here or there," Atkinson pointed out, "but we always compete. I'm trying to keep our kids on that course, because we can win a lot of ballgames by just staying the course and doing what we do."North Platte heads to University Academy Charter in Kansas City Tuesday. St. Joseph Christian doesn't play again until next Tuesday at East Buchanan.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680570370342.jpeg" alt="John Winkler slides in to score in the sixth inning." />
 <figcaption>John Winkler slides in to score in the sixth inning.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680570385962.jpeg" alt="Johnston Stewart." />
 <figcaption>Johnston Stewart.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680570406821.jpeg" alt="Kaden Mullendore." />
 <figcaption>Kaden Mullendore.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680570423573.jpeg" alt="Nick Orscheln." />
 <figcaption>Nick Orscheln.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680570439568.jpeg" alt="Ryan York." />
 <figcaption>Ryan York.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

North Platte overcomes early deficit, Panthers score win at St. Joseph Christian

Lafayette senior and basketball standout Jazlyn King signed her letter of intent Monday to continue her basketball career at Iowa Lakes Community College in Estherville, Iowa.

King had been verbally committed to the Lakers since February 10. She had been a multi-year starter for Lafayette, and has been the leading scorer for the Irish the past couple of seasons.

She helped guide Lafayette to a 10-18 finish this past season under first-year head coach Craig Curtis.

King’s best season would have been her junior year, when Lafayette went 16-12 and beat Savannah in the first round of districts in the 2021-22 campaign.

King was also a multi-year starter for Lafayette in volleyball, playing outside hitter, defensive specialist and libero during her career.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680550339334.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostLafayette senior and basketball standout Jazlyn King signed her letter of intent Monday to continue her basketball career at Iowa Lakes Community College in Estherville, Iowa.King had been verbally committed to the Lakers since February 10. She had been a multi-year starter for Lafayette, and has been the leading scorer for the Irish the past couple of seasons.She helped guide Lafayette to a 10-18 finish this past season under first-year head coach Craig Curtis.King’s best season would have been her junior year, when Lafayette went 16-12 and beat Savannah in the first round of districts in the 2021-22 campaign.King was also a multi-year starter for Lafayette in volleyball, playing outside hitter, defensive specialist and libero during her career.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680550380972.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639453905354.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Lafayette's Jazlyn King signs to continue basketball career at Iowa Lakes CC

LAWRENCE, Kan. — Kansas sharpshooter Gradey Dick is entering the NBA draft after one season with the Jayhawks.

The 6-foot-8 guard announced his decision <a href="https://twitter.com/gradey_dick/status/1641890748093313024">in a social media post Friday</a>.

Dick
 started all 36 games for the Jayhawks and averaged 14.1 points while 
shooting better than 40% from 3-point range. He made 83 3-pointers, a 
program record for a freshman.

Kansas lost to Arkansas in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, with Dick scoring just seven points in his finale.

Associated PressLAWRENCE, Kan. — Kansas sharpshooter Gradey Dick is entering the NBA draft after one season with the Jayhawks.The 6-foot-8 guard announced his decision <a href="https://twitter.com/gradey_dick/status/1641890748093313024">in a social media post Friday</a>.Dick
 started all 36 games for the Jayhawks and averaged 14.1 points while 
shooting better than 40% from 3-point range. He made 83 3-pointers, a 
program record for a freshman.Kansas lost to Arkansas in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, with Dick scoring just seven points in his finale.

🏀 Gradey Dick to leave Kansas for NBA draft after 1 season

The Kansas City Chiefs have extended their agreement with Missouri Western State University to make St. Joseph the home of Chiefs Training Camp&nbsp;through the 2024 season.

“We are thrilled to announce that we will return to Missouri Western State University and the St. Joseph community for another two years,” Chiefs President Mark Donovan said. “Missouri Western and St. Joseph have warmly hosted our team and fans for the past 13 years – a welcome start to the NFL season.

"I want to thank President Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy and Director of Athletics Andy Carter for their leadership throughout this process, and we look forward to starting our 2023 season at Missouri Western again this summer.”

“We’re thrilled to have the Super Bowl Champions back on campus and look forward to providing a top-notch experience to the team and their fans as they prepare for another successful season," University president Elizabeth Kennedy said. "We’re grateful to the Chiefs for making us their summer training camp home and to the St. Joseph community for embracing the team and its fans.”

The Chiefs have held training camp on the Missouri Western campus every year since 2010 (excluding 2020 due to Covid-19). This will mark the 13th year of training camp at Missouri Western in St. Joseph.

Dates and additional details for 2023 Chiefs Training Camp presented by Mosaic Life Care will be announced in mid-June.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680278355514.jpeg" alt="Stock photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Chiefs have extended their agreement with Missouri Western State University to make St. Joseph the home of Chiefs Training Camp&nbsp;through the 2024 season.“We are thrilled to announce that we will return to Missouri Western State University and the St. Joseph community for another two years,” Chiefs President Mark Donovan said. “Missouri Western and St. Joseph have warmly hosted our team and fans for the past 13 years – a welcome start to the NFL season."I want to thank President Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy and Director of Athletics Andy Carter for their leadership throughout this process, and we look forward to starting our 2023 season at Missouri Western again this summer.”“We’re thrilled to have the Super Bowl Champions back on campus and look forward to providing a top-notch experience to the team and their fans as they prepare for another successful season," University president Elizabeth Kennedy said. "We’re grateful to the Chiefs for making us their summer training camp home and to the St. Joseph community for embracing the team and its fans.”The Chiefs have held training camp on the Missouri Western campus every year since 2010 (excluding 2020 due to Covid-19). This will mark the 13th year of training camp at Missouri Western in St. Joseph.Dates and additional details for 2023 Chiefs Training Camp presented by Mosaic Life Care will be announced in mid-June.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680278382604.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Chiefs announce extension of training camp in St. Joseph through 2024 season

FAUCETT - The East Buchanan baseball team put up six runs in the sixth inning in an otherwise defensive battle against rival Mid-Buchanan, and the Bulldogs managed a 6-2 win in Faucett on a windy and cloudy Thursday afternoon.

After being held to just one hit through the first five innings, East Buchanan (6-0) loaded the bases with two walks and a hit batter to start off the sixth. Max Henry walked in the game's first run to give the Bulldogs their first run and lead.

With the bases still loaded and nobody out, and facing the Mid Buchanan bullpen, East Buchanan kept the pressure on. Austin Cilke had an RBI single, and Blake Bryor walked in another run to make it 3-0.

Henry later came around to score on an error in centerfield and an RBI fielders' choice by Ty Ingle made it 6-0 East Buchanan by the middle of the sixth inning.

"I think the confidence continued to build," East Buchanan coach Dave Elms said. "I think once we got runners on base and started putting a little bit of pressure on them, they had to be a bit finer with their pitches, and I think our hitters took advantage of those times."

On the hill, junior starter Gage Busby got the win for East Buchanan, pitching 6.1 innings and striking out 10 batters in a stellar effort.

"I just pitched to contact most of the time," Busby said. "Tried to let my fielders make plays for the most part and just pitch, and stuff was working today."

Busby held the Dragons (3-1) scoreless through five innings, but Mid-Buchanan got on the board in the bottom of the sixth after drawing three walks and stealing five bases in the frame.

Derek Sprague scored Mid-Buchanan's first run on a perfectly timed suicide squeeze from third base. Denton Biller came around to score on an error, but the Dragons were held to just the two runs in the bottom of the sixth.

Mid-Buchanan was held to just two hits Thursday, and the Dragons stranded five base runners. Cadyn Parrott took the loss on the mound, pitching only the sixth inning.

Biller made the start on the mound for Mid-Buchanan and looked strong, but he was pulled after 2.1 innings due to pitch count. Biller struck out five batters in that time. Coltyn Angst followed with 2.2 solid innings of scoreless relief, striking out four himself.

Austin Cilke recorded the final two outs on the mound in the seventh inning for East Buchanan, who remain undefeated on the young season.

"We're putting in a lot of work at practice," Busby said. "Staying after and putting in a lot of work ourselves. Defensively, we're doing a great job out there, and making plays. Timely hits. All of it. We're just doing good."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680223489681.jpeg" alt="Gage Busby (3) struck out 10 batters in 6.1 innings in East Buchanan's 6-2 win at East Buchanan Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Gage Busby (3) struck out 10 batters in 6.1 innings in East Buchanan's 6-2 win at East Buchanan Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFAUCETT - The East Buchanan baseball team put up six runs in the sixth inning in an otherwise defensive battle against rival Mid-Buchanan, and the Bulldogs managed a 6-2 win in Faucett on a windy and cloudy Thursday afternoon.After being held to just one hit through the first five innings, East Buchanan (6-0) loaded the bases with two walks and a hit batter to start off the sixth. Max Henry walked in the game's first run to give the Bulldogs their first run and lead.With the bases still loaded and nobody out, and facing the Mid Buchanan bullpen, East Buchanan kept the pressure on. Austin Cilke had an RBI single, and Blake Bryor walked in another run to make it 3-0.Henry later came around to score on an error in centerfield and an RBI fielders' choice by Ty Ingle made it 6-0 East Buchanan by the middle of the sixth inning."I think the confidence continued to build," East Buchanan coach Dave Elms said. "I think once we got runners on base and started putting a little bit of pressure on them, they had to be a bit finer with their pitches, and I think our hitters took advantage of those times."On the hill, junior starter Gage Busby got the win for East Buchanan, pitching 6.1 innings and striking out 10 batters in a stellar effort."I just pitched to contact most of the time," Busby said. "Tried to let my fielders make plays for the most part and just pitch, and stuff was working today."Busby held the Dragons (3-1) scoreless through five innings, but Mid-Buchanan got on the board in the bottom of the sixth after drawing three walks and stealing five bases in the frame.Derek Sprague scored Mid-Buchanan's first run on a perfectly timed suicide squeeze from third base. Denton Biller came around to score on an error, but the Dragons were held to just the two runs in the bottom of the sixth.Mid-Buchanan was held to just two hits Thursday, and the Dragons stranded five base runners. Cadyn Parrott took the loss on the mound, pitching only the sixth inning.Biller made the start on the mound for Mid-Buchanan and looked strong, but he was pulled after 2.1 innings due to pitch count. Biller struck out five batters in that time. Coltyn Angst followed with 2.2 solid innings of scoreless relief, striking out four himself.Austin Cilke recorded the final two outs on the mound in the seventh inning for East Buchanan, who remain undefeated on the young season."We're putting in a lot of work at practice," Busby said. "Staying after and putting in a lot of work ourselves. Defensively, we're doing a great job out there, and making plays. Timely hits. All of it. We're just doing good."The Bulldogs will next play at Maryville on April 3. Mid-Buchanan plays at Northland Christian on Friday at 4:30 p.m., weather permitting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680224436779.jpeg" alt="Denton Biller." />
 <figcaption>Denton Biller.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680223547008.jpeg" alt="Ty Ingle slides to steal third." />
 <figcaption>Ty Ingle slides to steal third.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680224471645.jpeg" alt="Coltyn Angst." />
 <figcaption>Coltyn Angst.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680224497018.jpeg" alt="Jackson Sauvage." />
 <figcaption>Jackson Sauvage.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680224529918.jpeg" alt="Gage Busby." />
 <figcaption>Gage Busby.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Sports