The St. Joseph Mustangs (4-3) scored three runs in the bottom of the first inning, and that's all the runs they would need in a 3-1 win over the Wellington Heat at Phil Welch Stadium Wednesday.

The Mustangs scored the runs on three hits, including a two-run RBI single to left by Dylan Carey. Michael Paule and Jack Wagner also stole a pair of bases in the frame.

After giving up a hit in the first inning, starting pitcher, Savannah alum and Northwest Missouri State signee Ty Hilsabeck settled in and set the Heat down in order in innings two through six. He struck out the side in the fourth inning and finished with nine Ks total in his first start of the season.

"I felt pretty good coming out of the gate," Hilsabeck said. "I was locating on my pitches pretty well, so it was going pretty smooth."

Wellington's best threat came in the top of the seventh. Tanner Lukowski relieved Hilsabeck on the mound to start the inning and right away, Wellington got a threat going with a hit, an error a walk and a hit batter.

After the Heat got on the board and made it a 3-1 game, Jay Greco replaced Lukowski on the mound with the bases loaded.

Greco worked St. Joseph out of the jam, and recorded the last two outs, including a strikeout to keep the lead intact.

The Mustangs got a pair of runners on in the eighth seeking insurance, but ultimately got nothing across. St. Joseph stranded seven total baserunners Wednesday.

Braden Berry came onto pitch the final inning and put the Heat down in order, striking out his last batter face to get the save. In all, St. Joseph recorded 12 strikeouts in Wednesday's win.

"We played really well," Hilsabeck said. "Get more runs, and our pitching has been really good this year. So, it should be fun."

St. Joseph hosts Wellington for a second straight night on Thursday at 7 p.m. It'll be 'Women in Sports Night,' as Missouri Western softball assistant coaches <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/514caa75-960d-4b85-9d4b-21ee870da74d">Lexi Kinnaird and Sammey Bunch</a> will join the Mustangs' coaching staff for the game.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654746854891.jpeg" alt="Ty Hilsabeck. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Ty Hilsabeck. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs (4-3) scored three runs in the bottom of the first inning, and that's all the runs they would need in a 3-1 win over the Wellington Heat at Phil Welch Stadium Wednesday.The Mustangs scored the runs on three hits, including a two-run RBI single to left by Dylan Carey. Michael Paule and Jack Wagner also stole a pair of bases in the frame.After giving up a hit in the first inning, starting pitcher, Savannah alum and Northwest Missouri State signee Ty Hilsabeck settled in and set the Heat down in order in innings two through six. He struck out the side in the fourth inning and finished with nine Ks total in his first start of the season."I felt pretty good coming out of the gate," Hilsabeck said. "I was locating on my pitches pretty well, so it was going pretty smooth."Wellington's best threat came in the top of the seventh. Tanner Lukowski relieved Hilsabeck on the mound to start the inning and right away, Wellington got a threat going with a hit, an error a walk and a hit batter.After the Heat got on the board and made it a 3-1 game, Jay Greco replaced Lukowski on the mound with the bases loaded.Greco worked St. Joseph out of the jam, and recorded the last two outs, including a strikeout to keep the lead intact.The Mustangs got a pair of runners on in the eighth seeking insurance, but ultimately got nothing across. St. Joseph stranded seven total baserunners Wednesday.Braden Berry came onto pitch the final inning and put the Heat down in order, striking out his last batter face to get the save. In all, St. Joseph recorded 12 strikeouts in Wednesday's win."We played really well," Hilsabeck said. "Get more runs, and our pitching has been really good this year. So, it should be fun."St. Joseph hosts Wellington for a second straight night on Thursday at 7 p.m. It'll be 'Women in Sports Night,' as Missouri Western softball assistant coaches <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/514caa75-960d-4b85-9d4b-21ee870da74d">Lexi Kinnaird and Sammey Bunch</a> will join the Mustangs' coaching staff for the game.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654746898241.jpeg" alt="Trevor McCollum gets hit by a pitch in the first inning." />
 <figcaption>Trevor McCollum gets hit by a pitch in the first inning.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654746930513.jpeg" alt="Jack Wagner (3) high fives Rob Butler as the two come into score in the first inning." />
 <figcaption>Jack Wagner (3) high fives Rob Butler as the two come into score in the first inning.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654746953680.jpeg" alt="Will Dryburgh." />
 <figcaption>Will Dryburgh.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654746967780.jpeg" alt="Jay Greco." />
 <figcaption>Jay Greco.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mustangs hang three runs early, lean on defense in win over Wellington

(AP) -&nbsp;Bo Bichette hit one of three Toronto home runs and five Blue Jays pitchers combined on a two-hitter in an 8-0 win over the Kansas City Royals Monday in a game delayed by just over two hours due to weather.

Daniel Lynch took the loss for Kansas City, dropping his record to 2-5. He allowed six runs on six hits, with two walks and four strikeouts in 5.2 innings.

 The Royals will try again against the BlueJays tonight at 7:10. Coverage starts at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph. Brad Keller will start on the mound.

St. Joseph Post(AP) -&nbsp;Bo Bichette hit one of three Toronto home runs and five Blue Jays pitchers combined on a two-hitter in an 8-0 win over the Kansas City Royals Monday in a game delayed by just over two hours due to weather.Daniel Lynch took the loss for Kansas City, dropping his record to 2-5. He allowed six runs on six hits, with two walks and four strikeouts in 5.2 innings. The Royals will try again against the BlueJays tonight at 7:10. Coverage starts at 6:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3) in St. Joseph. Brad Keller will start on the mound.

Royals shut out by Toronto in rain delayed game Monday

The St. Joseph Mustangs picked up a pair of wins against the Nevada Griffons this past weekend.

The Mustangs, or Tenderloins as they were known that night, picked up their first win of the season at home Friday with a 13-3 run rule victory.&nbsp;

Mid-Buchanan and Missouri Western alum Brady Holden scored three runs in that game, while recent St. Joseph Christian graduate Camden Lutz got his first strikeout of the summer Friday as well.

The Mustangs stayed home Saturday to host Nevada, and lost 3-0 in 10 innings, despite 10 strikeouts in seven innings from starting pitcher and Savannah native Micah Diamond.

The Mustangs bounced back Sunday in their first road game of the season and beat Nevada 11-7, putting their overall record at 2-2.

St. Joseph plays at Joplin Monday. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs picked up a pair of wins against the Nevada Griffons this past weekend.The Mustangs, or Tenderloins as they were known that night, picked up their first win of the season at home Friday with a 13-3 run rule victory.&nbsp;Mid-Buchanan and Missouri Western alum Brady Holden scored three runs in that game, while recent St. Joseph Christian graduate Camden Lutz got his first strikeout of the summer Friday as well.The Mustangs stayed home Saturday to host Nevada, and lost 3-0 in 10 innings, despite 10 strikeouts in seven innings from starting pitcher and Savannah native Micah Diamond.The Mustangs bounced back Sunday in their first road game of the season and beat Nevada 11-7, putting their overall record at 2-2.St. Joseph plays at Joplin Monday. First pitch is set for 7 p.m.

Mustangs take two out of three games against Nevada over the weekend

FENTON - It ends in a loss. Yet, it feels like a win.

Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer, in just its second season, made it all the way to the Final Four and played both their semifinal and third place matches into overtime.

The Dragons (15-8) tied Saturday's game with less than 20 minutes left in the second half, and played their sixth overtime match of the season, but fell to Greenwood 2-1 in the Class 1 third place match at the Worldwide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton.

A penalty kick by Greenwood's Annabelle Sonnemaker ricocheted off of a couple of Dragons in the box and snuck into the net, giving the Bluejays a victory with 7:50 left in the first overtime.

"I don't think it's quite sunk in yet that we're fourth in the state," Mid-Buchanan coach Danielle Beers said. "They're upset about the loss and I have a hard time being...I'm upset, yes, but at the same time, fourth in the state is amazing for where they started and where they've ended now. So, just so much pride. Extremely proud of them."

The first half ultimately didn't have a lot of action. There were a combined three shots-on-goal in the first 40 minutes. In the second half, both teams had more organized attacks.

Greenwood got on the board first with 22:47 remaining in regulation when Rilyn Anderson dribbled into the Mid-Buchanan box and snuck a ball between the legs of keeper Mallie Lieffring, who was coming up trying to cover.

Mid-Buchanan had the answer about five minutes later. Liv Moeckli got a penalty kick opportunity at the top of the Greenwood box and sent the ball perfectly into the top of the net to knot the match at 1-1 with 17:31 left in the second half.

"I don't know, I was just hoping someone hit it in," Moeckli laughed. "We really needed (a goal). I'm glad we battled so hard. I'm so glad we made it this far and I couldn't be any more proud."

Mid-Buchanan had five shots-on-goal in the second half alone, while Greenwood had six. Emily Parrott had a strong look at a potential game-winning goal with about a minute left in regulation, but Greenwood keeper Ellise Dlabach had the stop.

The Dragons also had seven total corner kicks in the match - six of those after halftime - but none of them ever materialized into any real goal chance.

The teams went back-and-forth in the opening minutes of the first overtime period. Mid-Buchanan was called on a foul in the Greenwood box, which gave the Bluejays a penalty kick opportunity.

Sonnemaker kicked the ball hard and low - hard enough that it bounced off of at least one Dragon defender and bounced into the goal to give Greenwood the win.

A second straight day of overtime heartbreak, but a second straight game in which the Dragons left all they could give out on the pitch.

"I'm just so proud of us and how much we were able to accomplish," senior defender Madison Meyer said after her final high school match. "Most of us have only been playing soccer for six months of our lives. So it's just crazy that we were even able to make it this far. I think we had a great season and we should all be very proud."

Meyer and six other seniors now say goodbye, but they can leave with their heads held high, knowing they helped lay the foundation for a young program that's doing big things.

"Our coaches believe in us," Moeckli said. "That's what got us here. We all believe in each other and it's just going to keep growing."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654366576875.jpeg" alt="Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer finishes as the fourth best team in the state in Class 1 in just their second ever season. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer finishes as the fourth best team in the state in Class 1 in just their second ever season. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFENTON - It ends in a loss. Yet, it feels like a win.Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer, in just its second season, made it all the way to the Final Four and played both their semifinal and third place matches into overtime.The Dragons (15-8) tied Saturday's game with less than 20 minutes left in the second half, and played their sixth overtime match of the season, but fell to Greenwood 2-1 in the Class 1 third place match at the Worldwide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton.A penalty kick by Greenwood's Annabelle Sonnemaker ricocheted off of a couple of Dragons in the box and snuck into the net, giving the Bluejays a victory with 7:50 left in the first overtime."I don't think it's quite sunk in yet that we're fourth in the state," Mid-Buchanan coach Danielle Beers said. "They're upset about the loss and I have a hard time being...I'm upset, yes, but at the same time, fourth in the state is amazing for where they started and where they've ended now. So, just so much pride. Extremely proud of them."The first half ultimately didn't have a lot of action. There were a combined three shots-on-goal in the first 40 minutes. In the second half, both teams had more organized attacks.Greenwood got on the board first with 22:47 remaining in regulation when Rilyn Anderson dribbled into the Mid-Buchanan box and snuck a ball between the legs of keeper Mallie Lieffring, who was coming up trying to cover.Mid-Buchanan had the answer about five minutes later. Liv Moeckli got a penalty kick opportunity at the top of the Greenwood box and sent the ball perfectly into the top of the net to knot the match at 1-1 with 17:31 left in the second half."I don't know, I was just hoping someone hit it in," Moeckli laughed. "We really needed (a goal). I'm glad we battled so hard. I'm so glad we made it this far and I couldn't be any more proud."Mid-Buchanan had five shots-on-goal in the second half alone, while Greenwood had six. Emily Parrott had a strong look at a potential game-winning goal with about a minute left in regulation, but Greenwood keeper Ellise Dlabach had the stop.The Dragons also had seven total corner kicks in the match - six of those after halftime - but none of them ever materialized into any real goal chance.The teams went back-and-forth in the opening minutes of the first overtime period. Mid-Buchanan was called on a foul in the Greenwood box, which gave the Bluejays a penalty kick opportunity.Sonnemaker kicked the ball hard and low - hard enough that it bounced off of at least one Dragon defender and bounced into the goal to give Greenwood the win.A second straight day of overtime heartbreak, but a second straight game in which the Dragons left all they could give out on the pitch."I'm just so proud of us and how much we were able to accomplish," senior defender Madison Meyer said after her final high school match. "Most of us have only been playing soccer for six months of our lives. So it's just crazy that we were even able to make it this far. I think we had a great season and we should all be very proud."Meyer and six other seniors now say goodbye, but they can leave with their heads held high, knowing they helped lay the foundation for a young program that's doing big things."Our coaches believe in us," Moeckli said. "That's what got us here. We all believe in each other and it's just going to keep growing."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654367924810.jpeg" alt="Jordan Thornton." />
 <figcaption>Jordan Thornton.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654367940519.jpeg" alt="Kamille Black." />
 <figcaption>Kamille Black.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654367957094.jpeg" alt="Mia Kerschner." />
 <figcaption>Mia Kerschner.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654367974947.jpeg" alt="Liv Moeckli." />
 <figcaption>Liv Moeckli.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654367988613.jpeg" alt="Paige Bennett." />
 <figcaption>Paige Bennett.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654368003566.jpeg" alt="Emily Parrott." />
 <figcaption>Emily Parrott.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654368032044.jpeg" alt="Mid-Buchanan's captains accept the fourth place trophy at the conclusion of the match." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Buchanan's captains accept the fourth place trophy at the conclusion of the match.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mid-Buchanan battles to overtime again, comes home fourth best in the state

FENTON - Mid-Buchanan has experienced a lot of long matches this season.

Friday's Class 1 state semifinal against Whitfield, in fact, was the fifth overtime game they've played this season.

The Dragons (15-7) tied the game at 1-1 in the second half and forced double overtime, but a goal by Whitfield's Mia Devrouax with 2:39 left in the second OT period gave the Warriors a 2-1 victory on a steamy Friday afternoon at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton.

"Regardless, they played a fantastic game," Mid-Buchanan coach Danielle Beers said of her team's effort. "They have nothing to hang their heads about. You know, we still get a chance to play to be the third best team in the state. That alone is an accomplishment. Getting here is an accomplishment. Now, it's just enjoying the rest of what we got left."

The Dragons survived a tough first half, in which Whitfield fired off seven shots-on-goal. The Warriors (12-6) had two shots bounce off the top crossbar and one off the right sidebar in the first half alone, resulting in a 0-0 tie at the break.

Whitfield broke that tie within the first five minutes of the second half. Devrouax, a sophomore striker and first-team all-state performer, got a cross pass in the middle from teammate Ella Rogan, and put in a goal from just a few yards away to put Whitfield ahead 1-0 with 35:00 left in the second half.

Fourteen minutes later, Mid-Buchanan had the answer. Sophomore striker and team scoring leader Emily Parrott beat everyone to a free ball in the middle of the field and was able to draw Whitfield keeper Brittan Schaefer out of the goal. Parrott poked the ball into an open net to knot the game at 1-1 with 21:00 left in regulation.

That was Mid-Buchanan's first shot-on-goal of the match.

"I just go for the ball," Parrott said. "I just try to get it in there. I'd do anything for our team to win this."

Whitfield had their chances to score again late, as the Warriors saw two more shots bounce off of the crossbar in the second half - both of those within the final 16 minutes of regulation.

Parrott had a decent look at a late goal herself with 6:40 left in the second half, but she was called offside just a few yards away from the goal.

Neither team could really capitalize in the first overtime period. Mid-Buchanan had seven corner kicks, four of them in overtime play, but none of them amounted to much as Whitfield was able to kick the ball away from the goal after each one.

Whitfield kept Mid-Buchanan keeper Mallie Lieffring busy throughout the game, as she finished with 15 total saves - three of those in overtime play.

Most of the second overtime saw both teams kicking the ball up and down the pitch, trying to get some semblance of a shot off, but not a lot was materializing for either side.

With less than three minutes left in the second OT, Whitfield got the ball inside the Dragons' 18-yard box. With 2:19 left until a penalty kick faceoff, Devrouax kicked a ground ball across the goal opening and into the back of the net to lift the Warriors to a 2-1 victory.

"After that first goal, they could have just laid back and let (Whitfield) put a couple more in, but they fought until the very last second of the game," Beers said. "To go into double overtime and play an extra 15 minutes, you can't ask for anything more, and they definitely left it all out there."

Mid-Buchanan will now face Greenwood (15-4) for third place on Saturday morning at 10 a.m. After a long, grueling game on the hot turf that went longer than 2.5 hours, it's a short turnaround for the Dragons.

But, they regroup, knowing they still have a lot to play for. Especially for a program that's only been doing this for two seasons.

"I think we need to relax, take a deep breath and go out there and play with whatever we have left," Parrott said.

"They worked really hard all season," Beers added. "Every aspect of that game, they showed they deserved to be there."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654290140933.jpeg" alt="Taiylor Harrington tries to win a ball away in the first half of the Class 1 state semifinal against Whitfield in Fenton Friday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Taiylor Harrington tries to win a ball away in the first half of the Class 1 state semifinal against Whitfield in Fenton Friday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFENTON - Mid-Buchanan has experienced a lot of long matches this season.Friday's Class 1 state semifinal against Whitfield, in fact, was the fifth overtime game they've played this season.The Dragons (15-7) tied the game at 1-1 in the second half and forced double overtime, but a goal by Whitfield's Mia Devrouax with 2:39 left in the second OT period gave the Warriors a 2-1 victory on a steamy Friday afternoon at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton."Regardless, they played a fantastic game," Mid-Buchanan coach Danielle Beers said of her team's effort. "They have nothing to hang their heads about. You know, we still get a chance to play to be the third best team in the state. That alone is an accomplishment. Getting here is an accomplishment. Now, it's just enjoying the rest of what we got left."The Dragons survived a tough first half, in which Whitfield fired off seven shots-on-goal. The Warriors (12-6) had two shots bounce off the top crossbar and one off the right sidebar in the first half alone, resulting in a 0-0 tie at the break.Whitfield broke that tie within the first five minutes of the second half. Devrouax, a sophomore striker and first-team all-state performer, got a cross pass in the middle from teammate Ella Rogan, and put in a goal from just a few yards away to put Whitfield ahead 1-0 with 35:00 left in the second half.Fourteen minutes later, Mid-Buchanan had the answer. Sophomore striker and team scoring leader Emily Parrott beat everyone to a free ball in the middle of the field and was able to draw Whitfield keeper Brittan Schaefer out of the goal. Parrott poked the ball into an open net to knot the game at 1-1 with 21:00 left in regulation.That was Mid-Buchanan's first shot-on-goal of the match."I just go for the ball," Parrott said. "I just try to get it in there. I'd do anything for our team to win this."Whitfield had their chances to score again late, as the Warriors saw two more shots bounce off of the crossbar in the second half - both of those within the final 16 minutes of regulation.Parrott had a decent look at a late goal herself with 6:40 left in the second half, but she was called offside just a few yards away from the goal.Neither team could really capitalize in the first overtime period. Mid-Buchanan had seven corner kicks, four of them in overtime play, but none of them amounted to much as Whitfield was able to kick the ball away from the goal after each one.Whitfield kept Mid-Buchanan keeper Mallie Lieffring busy throughout the game, as she finished with 15 total saves - three of those in overtime play.Most of the second overtime saw both teams kicking the ball up and down the pitch, trying to get some semblance of a shot off, but not a lot was materializing for either side.With less than three minutes left in the second OT, Whitfield got the ball inside the Dragons' 18-yard box. With 2:19 left until a penalty kick faceoff, Devrouax kicked a ground ball across the goal opening and into the back of the net to lift the Warriors to a 2-1 victory."After that first goal, they could have just laid back and let (Whitfield) put a couple more in, but they fought until the very last second of the game," Beers said. "To go into double overtime and play an extra 15 minutes, you can't ask for anything more, and they definitely left it all out there."Mid-Buchanan will now face Greenwood (15-4) for third place on Saturday morning at 10 a.m. After a long, grueling game on the hot turf that went longer than 2.5 hours, it's a short turnaround for the Dragons.But, they regroup, knowing they still have a lot to play for. Especially for a program that's only been doing this for two seasons."I think we need to relax, take a deep breath and go out there and play with whatever we have left," Parrott said."They worked really hard all season," Beers added. "Every aspect of that game, they showed they deserved to be there."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654290203646.jpeg" alt="Coach Danielle Beers." />
 <figcaption>Coach Danielle Beers.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654290324509.jpeg" alt="Emily Parrott." />
 <figcaption>Emily Parrott.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654290359922.jpeg" alt="Jordan Thornton." />
 <figcaption>Jordan Thornton.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654290379077.jpeg" alt="Kenna Hallquist." />
 <figcaption>Kenna Hallquist.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654290397165.jpeg" alt="Paige Bennett." />
 <figcaption>Paige Bennett.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654290417162.jpeg" alt="Khania Clark." />
 <figcaption>Khania Clark.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654290441011.jpeg" alt="Layson Hafley." />
 <figcaption>Layson Hafley.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654290496773.jpeg" alt="Mia Kirschner." />
 <figcaption>Mia Kirschner.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654290519982.jpeg" alt="Liv Moeckli." />
 <figcaption>Liv Moeckli.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654290536231.jpeg" alt="Mallie Lieffring." />
 <figcaption>Mallie Lieffring.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654290567523.jpeg" alt="Emily Parrott scores in the second half." />
 <figcaption>Emily Parrott scores in the second half.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mid-Buchanan battles hard, falls in double OT to Whitfield in state semis Friday

FAUCETT - In the spring of 2021, when Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer was holding their first ever practices, it's likely nobody inside the program or outside thought the Dragons could reach a Final Four in only their second year.

Just ask sophomore and two-year starter Emily Parrott.

"I don't know if I would have believed them," sophomore Emily Parrott said, thinking back to those early days. "But, seeing how our team has worked together and built together over the last two years, I would know that we'd be able to do this."

Mid-Buchanan (15-6) has made it a reality. The Dragons are Final Four bound following a 3-0 win over Barstow in Class 1 quarterfinals last Saturday on their home field in Faucett.

Head coach Danielle Beers knows the achievement is significant, but she's not surprised this group pulled it off.

"After a little bit of time spent with these girls, they have the heart and the drive," coach Danielle Beers said. "As you spend more time with them, you see the possibilities and the big picture. They would do whatever they need to for each other and it shows."

Mid-Buchanan will now face Whitfield (11-6) in the state semifinals on Friday at noon at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton.

It's a remarkable story for a program that just started just over a year ago, and for a community that never got to enjoy soccer prior to this.

"Oh gosh, it's amazing," Beers said. "I'm just so excited for the program, because they're inspiring so many young girls. You know, that was the goal to start the program here. To just bring soccer to a community that  hasn't had it yet. It's happening and it's awesome."

Last season was remarkable enough. In just their first season, with a roster of many first-year soccer players, the Dragons went 11-7 and finished as district runners-up to Bishop LeBlond.

One year later, with many of those same players, Mid-Buchanan beat LeBlond for the district title and are now just one win away from playing for a state title.

"It's just crazy," Lieffring said. "I didn't really...well, I mean, I thought it was possible, but you don't really think you can do it until you actually do it. So, it was really great. A really great feeling."

Whatever happens this weekend, Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer has already defied their own expectations by quite a long ways. And the 2022 season is already one that's forever gone down in school history.

"I'm not really surprised, because I knew our team could do it," Thornton said. "But, it's just crazy because we're a second-year program and I feel like no one really expected it, but I just...it's crazy. It's a crazy feeling."

The other semifinal features St. Pius X of Festus (13-6-1) and Greenwood (15-3). The championship game is set for Saturday at 11 a.m. and the third place is game is Saturday at 10 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653769364338.jpeg" alt="Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer takes a group photo with their Final Four t-shirts following a 3-0 win over Barstow in Class 1 quarterfinals in Faucett last Saturday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer takes a group photo with their Final Four t-shirts following a 3-0 win over Barstow in Class 1 quarterfinals in Faucett last Saturday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFAUCETT - In the spring of 2021, when Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer was holding their first ever practices, it's likely nobody inside the program or outside thought the Dragons could reach a Final Four in only their second year.Just ask sophomore and two-year starter Emily Parrott."I don't know if I would have believed them," sophomore Emily Parrott said, thinking back to those early days. "But, seeing how our team has worked together and built together over the last two years, I would know that we'd be able to do this."Mid-Buchanan (15-6) has made it a reality. The Dragons are Final Four bound following a 3-0 win over Barstow in Class 1 quarterfinals last Saturday on their home field in Faucett.Head coach Danielle Beers knows the achievement is significant, but she's not surprised this group pulled it off."After a little bit of time spent with these girls, they have the heart and the drive," coach Danielle Beers said. "As you spend more time with them, you see the possibilities and the big picture. They would do whatever they need to for each other and it shows."Mid-Buchanan will now face Whitfield (11-6) in the state semifinals on Friday at noon at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton.It's a remarkable story for a program that just started just over a year ago, and for a community that never got to enjoy soccer prior to this."Oh gosh, it's amazing," Beers said. "I'm just so excited for the program, because they're inspiring so many young girls. You know, that was the goal to start the program here. To just bring soccer to a community that hasn't had it yet. It's happening and it's awesome."Last season was remarkable enough. In just their first season, with a roster of many first-year soccer players, the Dragons went 11-7 and finished as district runners-up to Bishop LeBlond.One year later, with many of those same players, Mid-Buchanan beat LeBlond for the district title and are now just one win away from playing for a state title."It's just crazy," Lieffring said. "I didn't really...well, I mean, I thought it was possible, but you don't really think you can do it until you actually do it. So, it was really great. A really great feeling."Whatever happens this weekend, Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer has already defied their own expectations by quite a long ways. And the 2022 season is already one that's forever gone down in school history."I'm not really surprised, because I knew our team could do it," Thornton said. "But, it's just crazy because we're a second-year program and I feel like no one really expected it, but I just...it's crazy. It's a crazy feeling."The other semifinal features St. Pius X of Festus (13-6-1) and Greenwood (15-3). The championship game is set for Saturday at 11 a.m. and the third place is game is Saturday at 10 a.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650591746402.jpeg" alt="Khania Clark." />
 <figcaption>Khania Clark.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650591768172.jpeg" alt="Mallie Lieffring." />
 <figcaption>Mallie Lieffring.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654203157542.jpeg" alt="Liv Moeckli." />
 <figcaption>Liv Moeckli.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654203191494.jpeg" alt="Emily Parrott." />
 <figcaption>Emily Parrott.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653771300015.jpeg" alt="Jordan Thornton." />
 <figcaption>Jordan Thornton.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654203265635.jpeg" alt="Layson Hafley." />
 <figcaption>Layson Hafley.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mid-Buchanan soccer taking dream season to Final Four in Fenton this weekend

The St. Joseph Mustangs put up three runs in the first inning, but wouldn’t score again the rest of the night as the Clarinda A’s scored four runs in the ninth to come from behind and beat the Mustangs 5-3 Wednesday on the Mustangs’ Opening Day at Phil Welch Stadium.

The Mustangs had bases loaded in the seventh inning, but were unable to take advantage. Head coach Johnny Coy says his team missed some opportunities offensively, but he’s optimistic about the rest of the season.

"I expect us to score a lot of runs this year," Coy said. "I know they're good hitters. It's the first game of many. I feel like we got the first one out of the way. The rest is going to be a really positive summer for us."

Starting pitcher and Savannah native Braden Barry went 5.2 innings in a no-decision, striking out four batters. The Mustangs are off Thursday, but stay home to host Nevada on both Friday and Saturday. Those games will start at 7 p.m.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Mustangs put up three runs in the first inning, but wouldn’t score again the rest of the night as the Clarinda A’s scored four runs in the ninth to come from behind and beat the Mustangs 5-3 Wednesday on the Mustangs’ Opening Day at Phil Welch Stadium.The Mustangs had bases loaded in the seventh inning, but were unable to take advantage. Head coach Johnny Coy says his team missed some opportunities offensively, but he’s optimistic about the rest of the season."I expect us to score a lot of runs this year," Coy said. "I know they're good hitters. It's the first game of many. I feel like we got the first one out of the way. The rest is going to be a really positive summer for us."Starting pitcher and Savannah native Braden Barry went 5.2 innings in a no-decision, striking out four batters. The Mustangs are off Thursday, but stay home to host Nevada on both Friday and Saturday. Those games will start at 7 p.m.

Mustangs take early lead, fall late to Clarinda in season opener Wednesday

It's Opening Day for the St. Joseph Mustangs as the team gets ready to kick off its 13th season from Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp;

The Mustangs, coming off of their second consecutive MINK League title, open the 2022 season at home tonight against the Clarinda A's. First pitch is set for 7 p.m. with gates opening at 5:30.

Owner and general manager of the Mustangs Ky Turner says his role doesn't change much this season after he was named the new owner this past winter, taking over for longtime previous owner Dan Gerson.

"It's certainly a new beginning and it's changed our perspective on things," Turner said. "My role for me personally, not much has changed. Still that same stress of making sure those hotdogs are warm."

The Mustangs return 15 players from last season and now look to become the first MINK League team to win three straight titles. The Mustangs will play 26 home games in St. Joseph this summer and 48 total regular season games.

Outfielder and recent Missouri Western baseball graduate Brady Holden begins his third season as a Mustang. He says the fan support he and the team receives at home games in the summer is always special.

"Definitely have to embrace all of the community support we get," Holden said, "and go out there and return the favor when we go out and show face at different events. The kids coming out and wanting autographs and things like that. Just enjoy it. They definitely look up to us, so it's definitely something to have fun with."

The Mustangs averaged 2,246 fans per home game last year - the ninth most of any wood bat collegiate team in the nation.

The Mustangs return 15 players from last year's MINK League championship team, and look to win a league record third consecutive title this year. Holden says that'd be the perfect way to end his baseball career.

"It'd be awesome," he said. "Potentially last summer playing ball. So, to go out on top would be an unreal feeling."

The team returns 15 players, but it also has many notable newcomers, like recent St. Joseph Christian graduate and Missouri Western baseball signee Camden Lutz, who helped lead the Lions to within a run of a district title this year.

Lutz says he looks forward to getting a ton of games under his belt this summer.

"It's the first time I'll have played this many games in a short amount of time," Lutz said. "I'm looking forward to it. It's a lot of fun. A lot of baseball. I love the sport, so it should be a lot of fun."

The team only got into town on Monday, but Turner says it's always fun watching the players getting to know each other and getting to know the community as well.

"It's nice to have those guys who can kind of take a leadership role right from the get-go and show people the way to do it," Turner said. "But then also to see those new faces and new personalities and the way that we adapt to them and get to know their stories as well. So, it's always a lot of fun to meet these people and see the relationships they build off the field."

Turner promises some fun, new twists this season. For instance, the team will be known as the Tenderloins for four home games this year. Those games will feature silent charity auctions on players' jerseys.

June 9th will be 'Women in Sports Night,' where softball standouts Lexi Kinnaird and Sammey Bunch will become the first female Mustangs coaches in team history.

Whether it's breaking barriers, or calling the team the 'Tenderlions,' Turner says this season will center around one thing - fun.

"We're here to have fun," he reiterated. "Tenderloins? That sounds pretty fun. Let's do it! We have quite a few new surprises this year that we haven't sent out yet. So, I think the Tenderloins is just a preview of that."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627707332310.jpeg" alt="The St. Joseph Mustangs celebrate a MINK League championship win over Sedalia last summer. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The St. Joseph Mustangs celebrate a MINK League championship win over Sedalia last summer. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIt's Opening Day for the St. Joseph Mustangs as the team gets ready to kick off its 13th season from Phil Welch Stadium.&nbsp;The Mustangs, coming off of their second consecutive MINK League title, open the 2022 season at home tonight against the Clarinda A's. First pitch is set for 7 p.m. with gates opening at 5:30.Owner and general manager of the Mustangs Ky Turner says his role doesn't change much this season after he was named the new owner this past winter, taking over for longtime previous owner Dan Gerson."It's certainly a new beginning and it's changed our perspective on things," Turner said. "My role for me personally, not much has changed. Still that same stress of making sure those hotdogs are warm."The Mustangs return 15 players from last season and now look to become the first MINK League team to win three straight titles. The Mustangs will play 26 home games in St. Joseph this summer and 48 total regular season games.Outfielder and recent Missouri Western baseball graduate Brady Holden begins his third season as a Mustang. He says the fan support he and the team receives at home games in the summer is always special."Definitely have to embrace all of the community support we get," Holden said, "and go out there and return the favor when we go out and show face at different events. The kids coming out and wanting autographs and things like that. Just enjoy it. They definitely look up to us, so it's definitely something to have fun with."The Mustangs averaged 2,246 fans per home game last year - the ninth most of any wood bat collegiate team in the nation.The Mustangs return 15 players from last year's MINK League championship team, and look to win a league record third consecutive title this year. Holden says that'd be the perfect way to end his baseball career."It'd be awesome," he said. "Potentially last summer playing ball. So, to go out on top would be an unreal feeling."The team returns 15 players, but it also has many notable newcomers, like recent St. Joseph Christian graduate and Missouri Western baseball signee Camden Lutz, who helped lead the Lions to within a run of a district title this year.Lutz says he looks forward to getting a ton of games under his belt this summer."It's the first time I'll have played this many games in a short amount of time," Lutz said. "I'm looking forward to it. It's a lot of fun. A lot of baseball. I love the sport, so it should be a lot of fun."The team only got into town on Monday, but Turner says it's always fun watching the players getting to know each other and getting to know the community as well."It's nice to have those guys who can kind of take a leadership role right from the get-go and show people the way to do it," Turner said. "But then also to see those new faces and new personalities and the way that we adapt to them and get to know their stories as well. So, it's always a lot of fun to meet these people and see the relationships they build off the field."Turner promises some fun, new twists this season. For instance, the team will be known as the Tenderloins for four home games this year. Those games will feature silent charity auctions on players' jerseys.June 9th will be 'Women in Sports Night,' where softball standouts Lexi Kinnaird and Sammey Bunch will become the first female Mustangs coaches in team history.Whether it's breaking barriers, or calling the team the 'Tenderlions,' Turner says this season will center around one thing - fun."We're here to have fun," he reiterated. "Tenderloins? That sounds pretty fun. Let's do it! We have quite a few new surprises this year that we haven't sent out yet. So, I think the Tenderloins is just a preview of that."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627707540785.jpeg" alt="A dog pile ensues after the Mustangs beat Sedalia 12-2 for a MINK League title last year. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>A dog pile ensues after the Mustangs beat Sedalia 12-2 for a MINK League title last year. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622565472584.jpeg" alt="Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Mustangs begin 13th season Wednesday against Clarinda

(AP) - Andrés Giménez hit a three-run homer in the eighth inning off rookie Collin Snider, sending the Cleveland Guardians to a 7-3 win over the injury-riddled Kansas City Royals Monday.

José Ramírez hit his 13th homer and drove in three more runs for the Guardians. Emmanuel Rivera homered for the Royals, who rallied in the eighth but couldn’t stop from falling to 16-31 — the AL’s worst record.

 The Royals are 2-9 in their last 11. They’ll try again at Cleveland Tuesday at 5:10 p.m. Coverage starts at 4:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3). Daniel Lynch will start.

Kansas City ace Zack Greinke was placed on the 15-day injured list Monday with a strained right forearm. It was the most significant in a flurry of roster moves by the Royals before opening their series with the Guardians.

The 38-year-old Greinke complained of tightness in his arm following Sunday’s start in Minnesota. He allowed five runs in four innings in a 7-3 loss to the Twins. Greinke is 0-4 with 5.05 ERA this season.

Royals manager Mike Matheny said it could “take a little time” before Greinke's back. A six-time All-Star, Greinke is in his second stint with the Royals. They signed him to a one-year, $13 million contract in March.

St. Joseph Post(AP) - Andrés Giménez hit a three-run homer in the eighth inning off rookie Collin Snider, sending the Cleveland Guardians to a 7-3 win over the injury-riddled Kansas City Royals Monday.José Ramírez hit his 13th homer and drove in three more runs for the Guardians. Emmanuel Rivera homered for the Royals, who rallied in the eighth but couldn’t stop from falling to 16-31 — the AL’s worst record. The Royals are 2-9 in their last 11. They’ll try again at Cleveland Tuesday at 5:10 p.m. Coverage starts at 4:30 on KFEQ Radio (680, 95.3). Daniel Lynch will start.Kansas City ace Zack Greinke was placed on the 15-day injured list Monday with a strained right forearm. It was the most significant in a flurry of roster moves by the Royals before opening their series with the Guardians.The 38-year-old Greinke complained of tightness in his arm following Sunday’s start in Minnesota. He allowed five runs in four innings in a 7-3 loss to the Twins. Greinke is 0-4 with 5.05 ERA this season.Royals manager Mike Matheny said it could “take a little time” before Greinke's back. A six-time All-Star, Greinke is in his second stint with the Royals. They signed him to a one-year, $13 million contract in March.

Royals drop series opener to  Guardians, Greinke placed on IL

FAUCETT - In the spring of 2021, when Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer was holding its first ever practices together, it's likely no one inside the program or outside thought the Dragons could do this in year two.

Mid-Buchanan (15-6) has made it a reality. The Dragons scored two goals within six minutes of each other in the first half and slammed the door with a third one in the closing 10 minutes to beat Barstow 3-0 Saturday in Class 1 state quarterfinals in Faucett Saturday.

The win sends the Dragons to the Final Four in Fenton on June 3-4. Again, in just the second year as a program.

Mid-Buchanan had the wind at their back in the first half, and were able to apply pressure early. Their sixth shot-on-goal resulted in the matches' first point, as Parrott got a pass from sophomore Liv Moeckli and sent a hard shot from roughly 20 yards out - high into the goal and over the hands of Barstow keeper Izzy Fears.

The Dragons struck again in less than six minutes, as junior Jordan Thornton broke away up the sideline and drew Fears out of the goalie box. That allowed Thornton to sneak a groundball through to put the Dragons up 2-0.

"I just saw (Fears) was coming at me and I knew I had to hit it low," Thornton said, "and I knew I had to hit to the left side. That's what I tried to do and it worked."

Barstow (8-9) had opportunities in the second half, firing off six shots-on-goal in the game's final 40 minutes, but goalie Mallie Lieffring again stood firm, finishing the match with nine total saves. The junior keeper has not allowed a goal in each of the last four matches.

The Dragon defenders also did what they could to disrupt the Knights' rhythm.

"One thing we always talk about is disrupt, disrupt, disrupt," Beers said. "That's kind of been our go-to. If we can do that, that ball is hopefully with us."

Mid-Buchanan put on the finishing touch with 8:14 remaining. Driving into the wind, Thornton once again drew the goalie out of the box and was trying to fight off a few defenders just in front of the goal.

Thornton scooted the ball across the box to her left to a wide open Moeckli, who shoved the ball in with her right foot to give the Dragons a 3-0 lead.

"I knew Liv (Moeckli) would be there," Thornton said. "She's always ready, so I just kind of hit it in her direction and she hit it in the back of the net."

Mid-Buchanan advances to the Class 1 Final Four, where they'll face Whitfield (11-6) in the semifinals on Friday, June 3 at noon at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton.

It's a remarkable story for a program that just started a little over a year ago. For a community that never got to enjoy soccer prior to this.

Whatever happens next, Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer has already defied their own expectations by quite a long ways.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653769364338.jpeg" alt="Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer is Final Four bound in just their second year as a program following a 3-0 win over Barstow in Class 1 state quarterfinals Saturday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer is Final Four bound in just their second year as a program following a 3-0 win over Barstow in Class 1 state quarterfinals Saturday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostFAUCETT - In the spring of 2021, when Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer was holding its first ever practices together, it's likely no one inside the program or outside thought the Dragons could do this in year two."I don't know if I would have believed them," sophomore Emily Parrott said, thinking back to those early days. "But, seeing how our team has worked together and built together over the last two years, I would know that we'd be able to do this."Mid-Buchanan (15-6) has made it a reality. The Dragons scored two goals within six minutes of each other in the first half and slammed the door with a third one in the closing 10 minutes to beat Barstow 3-0 Saturday in Class 1 state quarterfinals in Faucett Saturday.The win sends the Dragons to the Final Four in Fenton on June 3-4. Again, in just the second year as a program."After a little bit of time spent with these girls, they have the heart and the drive," coach Danielle Beers said. "As you spend more time with them, you see the possibilities and the big picture. They would do whatever they need to for each other and it shows."Mid-Buchanan had the wind at their back in the first half, and were able to apply pressure early. Their sixth shot-on-goal resulted in the matches' first point, as Parrott got a pass from sophomore Liv Moeckli and sent a hard shot from roughly 20 yards out - high into the goal and over the hands of Barstow keeper Izzy Fears.The Dragons struck again in less than six minutes, as junior Jordan Thornton broke away up the sideline and drew Fears out of the goalie box. That allowed Thornton to sneak a groundball through to put the Dragons up 2-0."I just saw (Fears) was coming at me and I knew I had to hit it low," Thornton said, "and I knew I had to hit to the left side. That's what I tried to do and it worked."Barstow (8-9) had opportunities in the second half, firing off six shots-on-goal in the game's final 40 minutes, but goalie Mallie Lieffring again stood firm, finishing the match with nine total saves. The junior keeper has not allowed a goal in each of the last four matches.The Dragon defenders also did what they could to disrupt the Knights' rhythm."One thing we always talk about is disrupt, disrupt, disrupt," Beers said. "That's kind of been our go-to. If we can do that, that ball is hopefully with us."Mid-Buchanan put on the finishing touch with 8:14 remaining. Driving into the wind, Thornton once again drew the goalie out of the box and was trying to fight off a few defenders just in front of the goal.Thornton scooted the ball across the box to her left to a wide open Moeckli, who shoved the ball in with her right foot to give the Dragons a 3-0 lead."I knew Liv (Moeckli) would be there," Thornton said. "She's always ready, so I just kind of hit it in her direction and she hit it in the back of the net."Mid-Buchanan advances to the Class 1 Final Four, where they'll face Whitfield (11-6) in the semifinals on Friday, June 3 at noon at the World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton.It's a remarkable story for a program that just started a little over a year ago. For a community that never got to enjoy soccer prior to this.Whatever happens next, Mid-Buchanan girls' soccer has already defied their own expectations by quite a long ways."I'm not really surprised, because I knew our team could do it," Thornton said. "But, it's just crazy because we're a second-year program and I feel like no one really expected it, but I just...it's crazy. It's a crazy feeling."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653771300015.jpeg" alt="Jordan Thornton." />
 <figcaption>Jordan Thornton.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653771316497.jpeg" alt="Layson Hafley." />
 <figcaption>Layson Hafley.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653771334790.jpeg" alt="Liv Moeckli." />
 <figcaption>Liv Moeckli.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653771356798.jpeg" alt="Madison Meyer." />
 <figcaption>Madison Meyer.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653771378886.jpeg" alt="Mid-Buchanan celebrates after the match." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Buchanan celebrates after the match.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653771418180.jpeg" alt="Mid-Buchanan broke out the Final Four shirts after the match." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Buchanan broke out the Final Four shirts after the match.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653771436831.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Mid-Buchanan soccer blanks Barstow to reach Final Four in just their second season

The St. Joseph Central bowling team is in Springfield this weekend competing for a state championship.

The Indians have won two state titles - the most recent coming in 2018. First-year head coach and Central bowling alum Tyson Cook says the Indians have had a long tradition of making the state tournament.

"Central has been to state the last 6-7 years we've had a bowling team," Cook told St. Joseph Post. "I bowled for the team for four years when I was in high school. We went to state all four years, and they started the program 2-3 years before that. Central has won twice and has had top five finishes pretty much every other year."

Central is taking five bowlers to state this year and will compete against 23 other teams. The 2022 Missouri Bowling Properties Association Pepsi High School State Championship begins on Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at Andy B's in Springfield, where the the Indians will compete against 23 other teams.

Senior Trey Myers is headed to Baker University in Kansas this coming school year on a $20,000 bowling scholarship. He says it's taken a lot of hard work for Central to have gotten to this point.

"It takes a lot of cooperation," he said. "It also takes a lot of practice. If you put enough work into something, you'll definitely get good at it. We have been bowling for multiple years. We just work really well as a team. We have some team chemistry going on."

The Indians qualified for state by finishing third out of 20 teams at a tournament in Lee's Summit in mid-April. Freshman and leadoff bowler Jayden Myers says he's confident in his team's ability, as they've faced a lot of tough competition to reach this point.

"It's good to make it to state," he said, "knowing we have talent and...I feel cool and confident about the whole thing and I'm ready to go."

As the leadoff bowler, Myers says he feels that he has an important role in setting the tone for a good round.

"Whenever you throw a good ball, it gets the whole team going," he explained. "If you throw something good, it'll get your team revved up too."

Whatever happens this weekend, Cook is proud to lead his alma mater back to the state championships in his first year as the head man.

"I'm really proud of these boys," Cook said. "They put in a lot of hard work over the year. They've really grown as bowlers and I'm excited to see what they do."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653676857782.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Central bowling team is in Springfield this weekend competing for a state championship.The Indians have won two state titles - the most recent coming in 2018. First-year head coach and Central bowling alum Tyson Cook says the Indians have had a long tradition of making the state tournament."Central has been to state the last 6-7 years we've had a bowling team," Cook told St. Joseph Post. "I bowled for the team for four years when I was in high school. We went to state all four years, and they started the program 2-3 years before that. Central has won twice and has had top five finishes pretty much every other year."Central is taking five bowlers to state this year and will compete against 23 other teams. The 2022 Missouri Bowling Properties Association Pepsi High School State Championship begins on Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at Andy B's in Springfield, where the the Indians will compete against 23 other teams.Senior Trey Myers is headed to Baker University in Kansas this coming school year on a $20,000 bowling scholarship. He says it's taken a lot of hard work for Central to have gotten to this point."It takes a lot of cooperation," he said. "It also takes a lot of practice. If you put enough work into something, you'll definitely get good at it. We have been bowling for multiple years. We just work really well as a team. We have some team chemistry going on."The Indians qualified for state by finishing third out of 20 teams at a tournament in Lee's Summit in mid-April. Freshman and leadoff bowler Jayden Myers says he's confident in his team's ability, as they've faced a lot of tough competition to reach this point."It's good to make it to state," he said, "knowing we have talent and...I feel cool and confident about the whole thing and I'm ready to go."As the leadoff bowler, Myers says he feels that he has an important role in setting the tone for a good round."Whenever you throw a good ball, it gets the whole team going," he explained. "If you throw something good, it'll get your team revved up too."Whatever happens this weekend, Cook is proud to lead his alma mater back to the state championships in his first year as the head man."I'm really proud of these boys," Cook said. "They put in a lot of hard work over the year. They've really grown as bowlers and I'm excited to see what they do."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653678658226.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653678679072.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp;

St. Joseph Central bowling heads back to state in Springfield this weekend

DEARBORN -&nbsp;The North Platte girls' track and field team made history this past weekend, claiming their first ever state championship at the Class 2 state track meet at Adkins Stadium in Jefferson City.

The Panthers tallied 71 total points - 23 more than second place Lawson. Leading the way was junior Olivia Rogers, who won four gold medals on the final day of the meet in the 100 and 200 meter dash, as well as the 4x100 and 4x200 meter relay.

Rogers says she's grateful to have experienced those moments with her entire team.

"It was really an amazing experience," Rogers told St. Joseph Post. "I had so much fun with my whole team. I really enjoyed it. It was just really amazing to come off of second place last year and win first place this year."

The Panthers finished as state runners-up last year. The state title is just the third in North Platte school history and the first for a girls' sport.

Of the 10 North Platte track athletes who competed at state last week, eight of them came away with state medals.

Lindsay Ramsay and Haley Sampson finished second and third in the 400 meter dash, Brianna DeBord placed 7th in the 3200 meter run, while the girls' 4x400 meter relay placed second as well.

"We say a lot, 'Do your job and trust your teammates to do theirs,'" North Platte coach Brendan Cary said. "That's what you really saw. These guys went out and did their jobs and trusted their teammates they would do theirs and we saw a spectacular result at the end of the day Saturday."

North Platte girls' track has now finished in the top five in the team standings at state track in each of the past five seasons.

Cary says getting that first championship this year took a lot of work for it to become reality.

"The experience was really a culmination of a lot of things over a lot of time," he said. "These girls, most of them have been in the program multiple years - from junior year and up through high school. What a great experience for them to compete on that highest level."

Cary was sure to credit his two seniors - Haley Sampson and Gracie Ramsay. Sampson ends&nbsp;her North Platte track career with 11 total state medals, while Ramsay is a three-time state medalist, including a gold medal in the 4x400 meter relay.

"What they did is an incredible accomplishment," Cary said. "I was so happy we could send them out on top."

North Platte athletics has been on the rise in recent years, particularly when it comes to running sports.

The girls' cross country team has finished in the top three at state in each of the last three seasons, and now girls' track has made its mark on school history.

Rogers says the team has the right blend of athleticism and work ethic, as well as strong team chemistry.

"We have really good athletes all the way around in every sport," she said. "We have really athletic people everywhere. We have a good atmosphere all of the time. We all get along really, really well. Our practices are run really well."

With the bulk of North Platte's team set to come back next season on the heels of a state championship, Cary says the standard for excellence will only get higher for his program and others.

"We use the term 'rising tide lifts all ships,'" he said. "We're better when everyone is better and I think that's what it really has done has elevated our level around here. Not just in cross country and track, but the expectations for all of us. We're here to get better, we're here to improve, we're here to be the best we can be."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653590833362.jpeg" alt="North Platte girls' track has finished in the top five in team standings at state in each of the last five years. 2022 marked their first ever state championship. Courtesy photo." />
 <figcaption>North Platte girls' track has finished in the top five in team standings at state in each of the last five years. 2022 marked their first ever state championship. Courtesy photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostDEARBORN -&nbsp;The North Platte girls' track and field team made history this past weekend, claiming their first ever state championship at the Class 2 state track meet at Adkins Stadium in Jefferson City.The Panthers tallied 71 total points - 23 more than second place Lawson. Leading the way was junior Olivia Rogers, who won four gold medals on the final day of the meet in the 100 and 200 meter dash, as well as the 4x100 and 4x200 meter relay.Rogers says she's grateful to have experienced those moments with her entire team."It was really an amazing experience," Rogers told St. Joseph Post. "I had so much fun with my whole team. I really enjoyed it. It was just really amazing to come off of second place last year and win first place this year."The Panthers finished as state runners-up last year. The state title is just the third in North Platte school history and the first for a girls' sport.Of the 10 North Platte track athletes who competed at state last week, eight of them came away with state medals.Lindsay Ramsay and Haley Sampson finished second and third in the 400 meter dash, Brianna DeBord placed 7th in the 3200 meter run, while the girls' 4x400 meter relay placed second as well."We say a lot, 'Do your job and trust your teammates to do theirs,'" North Platte coach Brendan Cary said. "That's what you really saw. These guys went out and did their jobs and trusted their teammates they would do theirs and we saw a spectacular result at the end of the day Saturday."North Platte girls' track has now finished in the top five in the team standings at state track in each of the past five seasons.Cary says getting that first championship this year took a lot of work for it to become reality."The experience was really a culmination of a lot of things over a lot of time," he said. "These girls, most of them have been in the program multiple years - from junior year and up through high school. What a great experience for them to compete on that highest level."Cary was sure to credit his two seniors - Haley Sampson and Gracie Ramsay. Sampson ends&nbsp;her North Platte track career with 11 total state medals, while Ramsay is a three-time state medalist, including a gold medal in the 4x400 meter relay."What they did is an incredible accomplishment," Cary said. "I was so happy we could send them out on top."North Platte athletics has been on the rise in recent years, particularly when it comes to running sports.The girls' cross country team has finished in the top three at state in each of the last three seasons, and now girls' track has made its mark on school history.Rogers says the team has the right blend of athleticism and work ethic, as well as strong team chemistry."We have really good athletes all the way around in every sport," she said. "We have really athletic people everywhere. We have a good atmosphere all of the time. We all get along really, really well. Our practices are run really well."With the bulk of North Platte's team set to come back next season on the heels of a state championship, Cary says the standard for excellence will only get higher for his program and others."We use the term 'rising tide lifts all ships,'" he said. "We're better when everyone is better and I think that's what it really has done has elevated our level around here. Not just in cross country and track, but the expectations for all of us. We're here to get better, we're here to improve, we're here to be the best we can be."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653591258226.jpeg" alt="Olivia Rogers (left) completes a relay exchange with Kalli Schuster (right) at state track in Jefferson City. Photo by Tanner Cobb - Platte County Citizen." />
 <figcaption>Olivia Rogers (left) completes a relay exchange with Kalli Schuster (right) at state track in Jefferson City. Photo by Tanner Cobb - Platte County Citizen.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/North-Platte-girls-track-coach-Brendan-Cary-e1j4532" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/tommy-rezac/embed/episodes/North-Plattes-Olivia-Rogers-e1j4575" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Olivia Rogers' perfect day at state highlights North Platte's first state title in girls' track

PLATTSBURG - Plattsburg had been building toward this moment all season.

They had played 35 games and waited 13 years to reach Wednesday's Class 2 state quarterfinal game against Windsor.

Once they reached Wednesday's game, the Tigers didn't want to wait any longer.

The Tigers (28-8) scored five runs in the first inning and held Windsor to just two hits in a 9-0 victory at Perkins Park.

Senior Kayden Carter started on the mound, and behind clean defense all night, Carter tossed the complete game, striking out four and walking none.

"Oh it feels amazing," Carter said. "Plattsburg hasn't been here since 2009, so it's awesome for the players and the fans."

Plattsburg made Windsor pay early, as the Tigers notched four hits and a walk in their first four at-bats. A throwing error by Windsor catcher Parker Craig allowed Plattsburg's Brock Steggall to steal home and get the Tigers on the board first.

A sac fly by Joey Hoefmeister and a groundout sacrifice by Nathan Bash scored a couple more runs, as did an RBI single by Jackson Lewis. A wild pitch scored Paul Nelson to make it 5-0 Tigers after one.

Plattsburg was held scoreless for the next three innings, but Windsor failed to put any threat together offensively. The Greyhounds (18-7) didn't so much as get a runner onto second base until the sixth inning.

Nine groundouts, three lineouts and three flyouts spelled doom for Windsor as Plattsburg played clean in the field all evening.

"We got a really great defense behind (Carter)," Plattsburg coach Beau Brown said. "You know, we just let them make the plays and go get themselves out, and that's what we've talked about all year - let the other team get themselves out and we just make the plays."

The Tigers tightened their grasp in the bottom of the fifth, as two hits, a walk and a pair of wild pitches brought three runs across to make it an 8-0 ballgame.

Plattsburg tacked on one more in the sixth, thanks to an RBI double from Steggall, who went 3-for-4 with a run scored.

Lewis and Carter each scored a pair of runs, as Plattsburg advances to the Class 2 Final Four Monday to play Russellville (27-4) in the state semifinals at 1 p.m. at U.S. Ballpark in Ozark.

"Just doing this as a team, it just...it melts my heart I'm not going to lie," Lewis said. "It makes me happy just to be here with all of my friends and doing stuff we love to do together. It's just a good feeling."

It's the third Final Four appearance in Plattsburg baseball history, as the team now chases its first ever state title in a season riddled with school records.

"You get to the Final Four, it's an amazing feeling," coach Brown said. "The guys have had a phenomenal season. Pitching, defensively, we've had just a tremendous year. I'm just so proud of how the boys have come out and played this entire season, especially in postseason."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653531555964.jpeg" alt="The Plattsburg baseball team celebrates after defeating Winsdor 9-0 in Wednesday's Class 2 quarterfinal game at Perkins Park. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The Plattsburg baseball team celebrates after defeating Winsdor 9-0 in Wednesday's Class 2 quarterfinal game at Perkins Park. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostPLATTSBURG - Plattsburg had been building toward this moment all season.They had played 35 games and waited 13 years to reach Wednesday's Class 2 state quarterfinal game against Windsor.Once they reached Wednesday's game, the Tigers didn't want to wait any longer.The Tigers (28-8) scored five runs in the first inning and held Windsor to just two hits in a 9-0 victory at Perkins Park.Senior Kayden Carter started on the mound, and behind clean defense all night, Carter tossed the complete game, striking out four and walking none."Oh it feels amazing," Carter said. "Plattsburg hasn't been here since 2009, so it's awesome for the players and the fans."Plattsburg made Windsor pay early, as the Tigers notched four hits and a walk in their first four at-bats. A throwing error by Windsor catcher Parker Craig allowed Plattsburg's Brock Steggall to steal home and get the Tigers on the board first.A sac fly by Joey Hoefmeister and a groundout sacrifice by Nathan Bash scored a couple more runs, as did an RBI single by Jackson Lewis. A wild pitch scored Paul Nelson to make it 5-0 Tigers after one.Plattsburg was held scoreless for the next three innings, but Windsor failed to put any threat together offensively. The Greyhounds (18-7) didn't so much as get a runner onto second base until the sixth inning.Nine groundouts, three lineouts and three flyouts spelled doom for Windsor as Plattsburg played clean in the field all evening."We got a really great defense behind (Carter)," Plattsburg coach Beau Brown said. "You know, we just let them make the plays and go get themselves out, and that's what we've talked about all year - let the other team get themselves out and we just make the plays."The Tigers tightened their grasp in the bottom of the fifth, as two hits, a walk and a pair of wild pitches brought three runs across to make it an 8-0 ballgame.Plattsburg tacked on one more in the sixth, thanks to an RBI double from Steggall, who went 3-for-4 with a run scored.Lewis and Carter each scored a pair of runs, as Plattsburg advances to the Class 2 Final Four Monday to play Russellville (27-4) in the state semifinals at 1 p.m. at U.S. Ballpark in Ozark."Just doing this as a team, it just...it melts my heart I'm not going to lie," Lewis said. "It makes me happy just to be here with all of my friends and doing stuff we love to do together. It's just a good feeling."It's the third Final Four appearance in Plattsburg baseball history, as the team now chases its first ever state title in a season riddled with school records."You get to the Final Four, it's an amazing feeling," coach Brown said. "The guys have had a phenomenal season. Pitching, defensively, we've had just a tremendous year. I'm just so proud of how the boys have come out and played this entire season, especially in postseason."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653533723929.jpeg" alt="Brock Steggall lays down a bunt in the first inning." />
 <figcaption>Brock Steggall lays down a bunt in the first inning.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653533741825.jpeg" alt="Joey Hofmeister." />
 <figcaption>Joey Hofmeister.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653533757510.jpeg" alt="Kayden Carter." />
 <figcaption>Kayden Carter.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653533785000.jpeg" alt="Wyatt Moran goes to steal third base." />
 <figcaption>Wyatt Moran goes to steal third base.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Plattsburg races out to quick start, handles Windsor to reach first Final Four since 2009

Missouri Western men's and women's golf coach Greg Dillon is calling it a career after nine years with the Griffons.

Dillon, 66, announced his retirement at a Tuesday press conference at Spratt Stadium. Dillon's career at Missouri Western began in 2013, and it didn't take long for his teams to gain traction.

In 2014-15, he led individuals from both the men's and women's teams to a regional berths for the first time in program history. One year later, Griffon women's golf began an unprecedented run with four-straight NCAA Regional appearances as a team, including an NCAA Championship berth in 2016, where they took 12th place.

Dillon says he's most proud of his student-athletes' achievements during his tenure. "I can't say enough about the student-athletes," Dillon said. "How proud I am of their accomplishments more than anything else. Not only on the golf course, but in the classroom also."

In nine years, Dillon's teams collected 41&nbsp;All-MIAA Academic Awards, including five MIAA Scholar-Athlete Awards. On top of that, Dillon saw his golfers snag 19 All-MIAA&nbsp;selections, including 11 first-team honorees.

In his nine seasons, a combined 12 Missouri Western golf teams and individuals reached NCAA tournaments. "It's going to be a tough void to fill," said Missouri Western athletic director Andrew Carter, "in finding somebody who cares as much as he does about these programs. But, he also has that relationship-building quality within the community." In nearly a decade, Dillon and his teams have amassed over $500,000 in fundraising for the program and they've also played a key role in running concessions for Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp in St. Joseph each summer.

Dillon says there was no exactly right time to make this decision, but he cited his age as a factor.

"I'm hitting that point," he said, "and I think that's a good point to where it's time we look at making a transition more than anything else."

As Dillon gets ready to go back to his hometown of Pueblo, Colorado in July, his final achievement as head coach is the unveiling of a new indoor&nbsp;golf simulator inside the Looney Sports Complex, which will be operational this fall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653428257362.jpeg" alt="Missouri Western golf coach Greg Dillon announced his retirement at a press conference at Spratt Stadium Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Western golf coach Greg Dillon announced his retirement at a press conference at Spratt Stadium Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostMissouri Western men's and women's golf coach Greg Dillon is calling it a career after nine years with the Griffons.Dillon, 66, announced his retirement at a Tuesday press conference at Spratt Stadium. Dillon's career at Missouri Western began in 2013, and it didn't take long for his teams to gain traction.In 2014-15, he led individuals from both the men's and women's teams to a regional berths for the first time in program history. One year later, Griffon women's golf began an unprecedented run with four-straight NCAA Regional appearances as a team, including an NCAA Championship berth in 2016, where they took 12th place.Dillon says he's most proud of his student-athletes' achievements during his tenure. "I can't say enough about the student-athletes," Dillon said. "How proud I am of their accomplishments more than anything else. Not only on the golf course, but in the classroom also."In nine years, Dillon's teams collected 41&nbsp;All-MIAA Academic Awards, including five MIAA Scholar-Athlete Awards. On top of that, Dillon saw his golfers snag 19 All-MIAA&nbsp;selections, including 11 first-team honorees.In his nine seasons, a combined 12 Missouri Western golf teams and individuals reached NCAA tournaments. "It's going to be a tough void to fill," said Missouri Western athletic director Andrew Carter, "in finding somebody who cares as much as he does about these programs. But, he also has that relationship-building quality within the community." In nearly a decade, Dillon and his teams have amassed over $500,000 in fundraising for the program and they've also played a key role in running concessions for Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp in St. Joseph each summer.Dillon says there was no exactly right time to make this decision, but he cited his age as a factor."I'm hitting that point," he said, "and I think that's a good point to where it's time we look at making a transition more than anything else."As Dillon gets ready to go back to his hometown of Pueblo, Colorado in July, his final achievement as head coach is the unveiling of a new indoor&nbsp;golf simulator inside the Looney Sports Complex, which will be operational this fall.The simulator, a state-of-the-art Bushnell Launch Pro, will be set up on one of the racquet ball courses, where student-athletes will be able to play simulated courses."Now, with the simulator, we can really get to work," Dillon said. "The kids and the recruits, this is a facility that all of them use right now. It's pretty basic if you go anywhere." Dillon plans to work as the head pro at the Elmwood Golf Course in Pueblo once he gets back. Carter will oversee the hiring of Dillon's replacement, which will be the first head coaching hire Carter will make since being announced as the new Griffon A.D. on May 2."In all of our head coaches, we look for people of character and integrity," Carter said. "People we can trust. People whose parents will trust their young people with our coaches. Right after that, it's that passion (we look for) that you see in Greg."Dillon, who spent four years as the head man at Colorado State-Pueblo prior to coming to Western, says he'll remember these last years fondly."Where to start," he said. "My time here has just been...I just can't say enough good things about Missouri Western and St. Joe and the Griffon family."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653434266397.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.