They had said it was a long time coming. This year's Bishop LeBlond girls' soccer team had their sights set on bringing the program its first district title since 2011.

The sixth-ranked and top-seeded Eagles (12-5) did just that with a 6-2 win over 10th-ranked and No. 2 seed Mid-Buchanan at a rain-soaked Eagle Stadium Thursday.

Seniors Reese Robertson, Olivia Elliott and Libby Weddle each scored two goals in the match.

"I mean, it means everything to us," Weddle said. "We've been working for this since we were freshmen. You know, we've gotten second place (in districts in 2018 and 2019), so we've been working really, really hard and this was our biggest goal this season. So, I'm just really proud of us."

Elliott got the scoring started with a goal off of a penalty kick with 28:39 to go in the first half. Weddle got her first goal 12 minutes later to give the Eagles a 2-0 cushion.

What started as basically sprinkles intensified into a fairly steady downpour for the final 10-15 minutes of the first half.

With no thunder or lightning, the game kept going.

"The weather was a big obstacle," Weddle said. "But, I think we had to shut it out. I know it's pretty hard to shut out the weather, but I think that was our biggest thing. Just not let anything get in our way. Just continue to play our game."

Both teams kept battling in the mud and the rain, and never let up.

After only a couple of shots-on-goal in the first 30 minutes, Mid-Buchanan (11-7) had a decent threat going late in the first half and freshman Emily Parrott was able to squeeze a goal past LeBlond keeper Hannah Bentrup with just over 10 minutes left before halftime, making it a 2-1 match.

With time ticking down, Weddle got a nice cross pass from Elliott and pushed through her second goal with just 1:42 to go in the half, giving the Eagles a 3-1 lead at the break.

"I think that was really big for us," she said. "We were trying to get comfortable and at that point, we were a little nervous. So, I think adding another goal (before halftime) was really good for us and it allowed us to progress throughout the game."

The Eagles' offense progressed nicely throughout with 16 total shots-on-goal. Elliott, who scored the first goal of the first half, got the scoring started in the second with an unassisted goal from a few yards out, putting LeBlond ahead 4-1 with 31:32 remaining.

"We just wanted to keep our momentum and keep going and keep pushing forward and hold (Mid-Buchanan) where they were," Elliott said.

Robertson scored a goal of her own just 45 seconds later. Only 24 seconds after that, Parrott jumped on a loose ball at midfield, ran down the pitch and punched in her second goal for the Dragons, making it a 5-2 match with still 30:23 to go.

After a scoreless back-and-forth for almost 20 minutes, Robertson squeezed a groundball past Mid-Buchanan keeper Mallie Lieffring to give the Eagles a 6-2 advantage with just over 11 minutes left.

The finishing touch on a great match and the exclamation point on the goal that LeBlond had been looking to achieve all season.

"We were all really excited," said Robertson. "I mean, it's been a long time coming. And after losing last year, this is a huge accomplishment for us. It's just great that we're the team that could get the plaque back."

While it's not the outcome Mid-Buchanan was hoping for, it certainly wasn't a bad way for a program to end its inaugural season - four games above .500, a top-10 ranking and a district runner-up plaque.

"I cannot express how proud I am of this team," Dragons coach and LeBlond alum Danielle Beers said. "They have come out and done something that no one thought that they could. I mean, first-year program. Taking second. That's awesome, and that's what I'll remember. The fact that they came out and had one really great first season."

LeBlond advances to the state quarterfinals, where they will face either Lone Jack (17-4) or St. Michael the Archangel (15-4) on May 29 at a time and location to be determined.

Lone Jack and Archangel meet in the Class 1 District 7 title game Friday evening.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621562276909.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThey had said it was a long time coming. This year's Bishop LeBlond girls' soccer team had their sights set on bringing the program its first district title since 2011.The sixth-ranked and top-seeded Eagles (12-5) did just that with a 6-2 win over 10th-ranked and No. 2 seed Mid-Buchanan at a rain-soaked Eagle Stadium Thursday.Seniors Reese Robertson, Olivia Elliott and Libby Weddle each scored two goals in the match."I mean, it means everything to us," Weddle said. "We've been working for this since we were freshmen. You know, we've gotten second place (in districts in 2018 and 2019), so we've been working really, really hard and this was our biggest goal this season. So, I'm just really proud of us."Elliott got the scoring started with a goal off of a penalty kick with 28:39 to go in the first half. Weddle got her first goal 12 minutes later to give the Eagles a 2-0 cushion.Then, the skies opened up.What started as basically sprinkles intensified into a fairly steady downpour for the final 10-15 minutes of the first half.With no thunder or lightning, the game kept going."The weather was a big obstacle," Weddle said. "But, I think we had to shut it out. I know it's pretty hard to shut out the weather, but I think that was our biggest thing. Just not let anything get in our way. Just continue to play our game."Both teams kept battling in the mud and the rain, and never let up.After only a couple of shots-on-goal in the first 30 minutes, Mid-Buchanan (11-7) had a decent threat going late in the first half and freshman Emily Parrott was able to squeeze a goal past LeBlond keeper Hannah Bentrup with just over 10 minutes left before halftime, making it a 2-1 match.With time ticking down, Weddle got a nice cross pass from Elliott and pushed through her second goal with just 1:42 to go in the half, giving the Eagles a 3-1 lead at the break."I think that was really big for us," she said. "We were trying to get comfortable and at that point, we were a little nervous. So, I think adding another goal (before halftime) was really good for us and it allowed us to progress throughout the game."The Eagles' offense progressed nicely throughout with 16 total shots-on-goal. Elliott, who scored the first goal of the first half, got the scoring started in the second with an unassisted goal from a few yards out, putting LeBlond ahead 4-1 with 31:32 remaining."We just wanted to keep our momentum and keep going and keep pushing forward and hold (Mid-Buchanan) where they were," Elliott said.Robertson scored a goal of her own just 45 seconds later. Only 24 seconds after that, Parrott jumped on a loose ball at midfield, ran down the pitch and punched in her second goal for the Dragons, making it a 5-2 match with still 30:23 to go.After a scoreless back-and-forth for almost 20 minutes, Robertson squeezed a groundball past Mid-Buchanan keeper Mallie Lieffring to give the Eagles a 6-2 advantage with just over 11 minutes left.The finishing touch on a great match and the exclamation point on the goal that LeBlond had been looking to achieve all season."We were all really excited," said Robertson. "I mean, it's been a long time coming. And after losing last year, this is a huge accomplishment for us. It's just great that we're the team that could get the plaque back."While it's not the outcome Mid-Buchanan was hoping for, it certainly wasn't a bad way for a program to end its inaugural season - four games above .500, a top-10 ranking and a district runner-up plaque."I cannot express how proud I am of this team," Dragons coach and LeBlond alum Danielle Beers said. "They have come out and done something that no one thought that they could. I mean, first-year program. Taking second. That's awesome, and that's what I'll remember. The fact that they came out and had one really great first season."LeBlond advances to the state quarterfinals, where they will face either Lone Jack (17-4) or St. Michael the Archangel (15-4) on May 29 at a time and location to be determined.Lone Jack and Archangel meet in the Class 1 District 7 title game Friday evening.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621562249322.jpeg" alt="LeBlond's Olivia Elliott (6) celebrates with teammate Allie Welter after scoring a goal in the second half of LeBlond's 6-1 win over Mid-Buchanan in the Class 1 District 8 title at Eagle Stadium Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>LeBlond's Olivia Elliott (6) celebrates with teammate Allie Welter after scoring a goal in the second half of LeBlond's 6-1 win over Mid-Buchanan in the Class 1 District 8 title at Eagle Stadium Thursday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621562510148.jpeg" alt="Mid-Buchanan's Emily Parrott (44) puts a ball in the goal in the first half of Thursday's Class 1 District 8 title game. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Buchanan's Emily Parrott (44) puts a ball in the goal in the first half of Thursday's Class 1 District 8 title game. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621562421790.jpeg" alt="LeBlond's Hannah Bentrup (blue) defends a shot-on-goal from Mid-Buchanan's Layson Hafley (11). Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>LeBlond's Hannah Bentrup (blue) defends a shot-on-goal from Mid-Buchanan's Layson Hafley (11). Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621562343575.jpeg" alt="Fans break out their umbrellas during the first half at Eagle Stadium." />
 <figcaption>Fans break out their umbrellas during the first half at Eagle Stadium.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

LeBlond scores three goals per half, tops Mid-Buchanan for first district title since 2011

Lafayette seniors Jayden Little and Brayden Luikart limited Savannah to just five hits, and the Irish (17-7) needed only three hits to beat the Savages 7-0 on Thursday afternoon in the Class 4 District 16 championship.

The game was moved up from a 5 p.m. start time to noon, and the location shifted from Phil Welch Stadium to Lathrop High School due to impending weather.

The win gives Lafayette baseball its first district title since 2018.

Little made the start on the mound for the Irish, and held Savannah (16-9) scoreless through three innings and struck out five batters.

Luikart entered in relief in the fourth inning and tossed four, no-hit innings along with 10 strikeouts.

Little led the way at the plate with two runs scored and two RBIs, including a double. Kobe Jones scored a pair of runs and doubled also.

Lafayette moves onto the sectional round where they will play MEC rival Chillicothe on the road Tuesday. The start time is to be determined.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621542190773.jpeg" alt="Courtesy Ashley McGinnis." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Ashley McGinnis.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostLafayette seniors Jayden Little and Brayden Luikart limited Savannah to just five hits, and the Irish (17-7) needed only three hits to beat the Savages 7-0 on Thursday afternoon in the Class 4 District 16 championship.The game was moved up from a 5 p.m. start time to noon, and the location shifted from Phil Welch Stadium to Lathrop High School due to impending weather.The win gives Lafayette baseball its first district title since 2018.Little made the start on the mound for the Irish, and held Savannah (16-9) scoreless through three innings and struck out five batters.Luikart entered in relief in the fourth inning and tossed four, no-hit innings along with 10 strikeouts.Little led the way at the plate with two runs scored and two RBIs, including a double. Kobe Jones scored a pair of runs and doubled also.Lafayette moves onto the sectional round where they will play MEC rival Chillicothe on the road Tuesday. The start time is to be determined.

Luikart, Little shut out Savannah, giving Lafayette first district title since 2018

Prior to this week, it had already been a very memorable 2021 season, and memorable career, for recent St. Joseph Central graduate Daniel Love.

The all-conference and all-district golfer helped take the Indians' boys golf team to new heights. 

Not only did he shoot a record score of 30 through nine holes at Fairview Golf Course this spring, but he was also part of a 309 team score at the Liberty Invite at Hodge Park in April - the lowest team score for Central boys' golf in a decade.

"I think this season really gave the team some confidence," said Love. "You know, we can do this and we can go against the big Kansas City schools or anyone in the state. For the juniors and under classmen who are coming up and are going to be leaders on the team, I think it's great for them to know that we can always compete."

That competitive spirit lingered into the district meet in Independence, where Love placed third with a two-over par 74. Teammate and junior Andrew Wheatley's 10-over par 82 put him 16th - sending them both to the Class 5 state meet at Sedalia Country Club this past Monday and Tuesday.

"Golf is a really serious sport and there's a lot of pressure and it's always nice to have coaches like I have and a teammate that can kind of relieve that pressure," Love said, "and you can kind of take a deep breath and go have dinner and have a good time with them."

After a 2.5 hour rain delay to start things off, Love shot a one-over par 71 Monday and a one-under 69 Tuesday to finish even par for the tournament with a 140 - the lowest individual state score for a Central boys' golfer in school history.

"Shooting that score and placing fourth at state has really meant a lot to me as an individual and as a CHS graduate," Love said. "Going to college, it's great to know I left a mark at my high school. Kind of gives me momentum going into my college career that I can turn on the lights when they need to be turned on. It's a great feeling. It's confidence boosting."

Love looks to leave another mark on another hometown school. He's been committed to golf at Missouri Western for some time, and he looks forward to a busy offseason to get himself ready.

He, along with LeBlond's Jeffrey Johnston, join a Griffons' program fresh off of its fifth NCAA tournament appearance over the last 16 years.

"It's such a privilege to be able to go play Division II golf and have a spot on a team after high school," he continued. "Being able to join a team where I can work well and build on my game and contribute to the team is such a great honor. I'm pumped and ready to go for the season."

Love had a successful summer circuit last year, earning Missouri Junior Tour Player of the Year honors with five victories. He'll compete in more individual tournaments this summer - once again, looking to leave a mark.

"This summer, I'm just going to really take the time to prepare myself for that collegiate level to get my game where it needs to be to compete at the next level."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621538509339.jpeg" alt="Daniel Love (right)&nbsp; and Andrew Wheatley (left) at state golf in Sedalia. Photo courtesy of Joy Vandel." />
 <figcaption>Daniel Love (right)&nbsp; and Andrew Wheatley (left) at state golf in Sedalia. Photo courtesy of Joy Vandel.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostPrior to this week, it had already been a very memorable 2021 season, and memorable career, for recent St. Joseph Central graduate Daniel Love.The all-conference and all-district golfer helped take the Indians' boys golf team to new heights. Not only did he shoot a record score of 30 through nine holes at Fairview Golf Course this spring, but he was also part of a 309 team score at the Liberty Invite at Hodge Park in April - the lowest team score for Central boys' golf in a decade."I think this season really gave the team some confidence," said Love. "You know, we can do this and we can go against the big Kansas City schools or anyone in the state. For the juniors and under classmen who are coming up and are going to be leaders on the team, I think it's great for them to know that we can always compete."That competitive spirit lingered into the district meet in Independence, where Love placed third with a two-over par 74. Teammate and junior Andrew Wheatley's 10-over par 82 put him 16th - sending them both to the Class 5 state meet at Sedalia Country Club this past Monday and Tuesday."Golf is a really serious sport and there's a lot of pressure and it's always nice to have coaches like I have and a teammate that can kind of relieve that pressure," Love said, "and you can kind of take a deep breath and go have dinner and have a good time with them."After a 2.5 hour rain delay to start things off, Love shot a one-over par 71 Monday and a one-under 69 Tuesday to finish even par for the tournament with a 140 - the lowest individual state score for a Central boys' golfer in school history."Shooting that score and placing fourth at state has really meant a lot to me as an individual and as a CHS graduate," Love said. "Going to college, it's great to know I left a mark at my high school. Kind of gives me momentum going into my college career that I can turn on the lights when they need to be turned on. It's a great feeling. It's confidence boosting."Love looks to leave another mark on another hometown school. He's been committed to golf at Missouri Western for some time, and he looks forward to a busy offseason to get himself ready.He, along with LeBlond's Jeffrey Johnston, join a Griffons' program fresh off of its fifth NCAA tournament appearance over the last 16 years."It's such a privilege to be able to go play Division II golf and have a spot on a team after high school," he continued. "Being able to join a team where I can work well and build on my game and contribute to the team is such a great honor. I'm pumped and ready to go for the season."Love had a successful summer circuit last year, earning Missouri Junior Tour Player of the Year honors with five victories. He'll compete in more individual tournaments this summer - once again, looking to leave a mark."This summer, I'm just going to really take the time to prepare myself for that collegiate level to get my game where it needs to be to compete at the next level."<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1052422591&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/tommy-rezac" title="KFEQ Radio, St. Joseph Post" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">KFEQ Radio, St. Joseph Post</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/tommy-rezac/st-joseph-centrals-daniel-love-on-state-golf-mwsu-future" title="St. Joseph Central&#x27;s Daniel Love on state golf, MWSU future" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">St. Joseph Central&#x27;s Daniel Love on state golf, MWSU future</a></div></div>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Central's Daniel Love leaves his mark in final varsity tournament and season

WESTON - East Buchanan had waited a long time to win a district championship in baseball.

District runners-up in 2013. 2014. 2019. COVID in 2020. And all of the ups-and-downs in Wednesday's Class 2 District 15 title game made the Bulldogs wait a little longer.

Through a rain delay, lead changes, pitching changes and a flurry of hits and errors from both teams, East Buchanan (15-8) overcame the obstacles and held on for a 14-12 win over rival Mid-Buchanan in a three-hour affair at West Platte High School Wednesday.

After watching Mid-Buchanan rake in the awards and accolades in a variety of sports in recent years, the Bulldogs reveled in a big victory over their biggest rival.

"I can't say enough good things about the team," East Buchanan coach Dave Elms said. "It was a true team effort tonight. Some guys didn't get in of course, but they were involved with the game and encouraged everyone. I mean, phenomenal. First (district title in baseball) in school history."

"Mid-Buch has had total power over us the last four years in (boys' sports) at least," junior Conner Musser said. "And to finally bring it home for our seniors for the first time forever. At least, for the first time since I've been in high school, it feels really good."

East Buchanan got off to a strong start, hanging three runs on three hits and a walk in the top of the first.

The Dragons (14-6) responded quickly, scoring three runs off of a pair of walks and then RBI singles from Tyler Brown and Tucker Holden in the bottom of the frame.

After a hit batter and another walk, Mid-Buchanan loaded the bases, but what started as a light rain shower intensified somewhat and caused a delay that lasted just over 10 minutes.

"When's the umpire going to step in and put a stoppage to it?" Dave Elms had wondered. "It was getting a little dangerous. Couldn't grip the ball real well and the bases were getting slick and so forth. I know they were trying to prolong that inning and that streak and I understand. I'd have done the same thing."

Dave's big brother, Mid-Buchanan head coach Rod Elms, wanted the game to keep going, but understood the reason for the delay.

"That was a big time of the game to delay it," he said, "because momentum is big, but I get it. For safety of the kids. So, I get it."

The stoppage didn't slow Mid-Buchanan's early momentum. In the second at-bat after the game's resumption, junior Rawlins Brant ripped a grand slam to right field, giving the Dragons an 8-3 lead after a lengthy first inning.

After getting a run back in the second, the Bulldogs' bats came alive in the third. A two-run RBI double by Kaden Woodside and a pair of Mid-Buchanan errors sparked a five-run frame, and gave East Buchanan the lead back at 9-8.

"Our energy from the bus ride here all the way here, we were really up," said Musser, who scored two runs and drove in a pair. "We know that we've had a couple comeback wins this year. We knew that we're never out of a game with our offense, and are just really confident in ourselves."

East Buchanan hung another five-spot in the fifth inning, thanks in part to a double from senior Drew Thompson, two walks and another Mid-Buchanan error.

The Dragons got a run back in the bottom half of the fifth, but still trailed 14-9 entering the sixth.

After relief pitcher Denton Biller struck out two batters to end the top of the sixth, Mid-Buchanan loaded the bases with three walks, and Holden was hit by a pitch to drive in a run. In the next at-bat, junior Blake Hunter drove in two more runs with an RBI single to right.

Suddenly, it's a 14-12 East Buchanan lead headed to the seventh.

"They did not totally quit and they kept battling," Rod Elms said. "Now, was that some crazy baseball with walks and errors, and you can blame the rain with a wet field, but they put the ball in play, and I don't think they struck out much. That's the key in high school baseball. Put the ball in play. Make something happen."

In the seventh, senior Kaden Anderson climbed the hill for Mid-Buchanan and performed well, coming off of a wrist injury from a month-and-a-half prior. While he gave up a pair of two-out singles, East Buchanan's Cameron Henry lined out to third base to end the threat.

With three outs left to get, Dave Elms made a pitching change. Musser had made the start, but was pulled in the first inning after giving up eight earned runs, including Brant's grand slam.

After a solid 4.2 innings of middle relief from sophomore Bronco Whitt, Elms decided to give Musser another chance. Mid-Buchanan got the tying run to the plate, but Musser got the save in just four at-bats.

"My coach told me, 'Wipe everything, you're the man, go out there, fresh mind and go attack them,'" Musser said. "Coach (Scott) Antle said his whole motto, this whole district tournament was 'go take it,' so that's what was going through my mind in that last inning."

All-in-all, a wildly entertaining game. A combined 26 hits. Three lead changes. Rain delay. A full, divided crowd. A storied rivalry. District title on the line.

As fun as all of that is, it's tough to be on the losing end of a game like that. But, Rod Elms could take comfort in one thing Wednesday- being proud of his little brother.

"He's a good coach," Rod said of his brother, Dave. "If I'm going to lose a district title to someone, I'm glad it was him, because he deserves it."

East Buchanan will face District 16 champion Bishop LeBlond in sectionals on Monday in Gower. LeBlond took down Maysville 11-10 in walk-off fashion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621476377193.jpeg" alt="The East Buchanan baseball team celebrates on the field after holding off Mid-Buchanan 14-12 in the Class 2 District 15 title game in Weston Wednesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The East Buchanan baseball team celebrates on the field after holding off Mid-Buchanan 14-12 in the Class 2 District 15 title game in Weston Wednesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWESTON - East Buchanan had waited a long time to win a district championship in baseball.District runners-up in 2013. 2014. 2019. COVID in 2020. And all of the ups-and-downs in Wednesday's Class 2 District 15 title game made the Bulldogs wait a little longer.Through a rain delay, lead changes, pitching changes and a flurry of hits and errors from both teams, East Buchanan (15-8) overcame the obstacles and held on for a 14-12 win over rival Mid-Buchanan in a three-hour affair at West Platte High School Wednesday.After watching Mid-Buchanan rake in the awards and accolades in a variety of sports in recent years, the Bulldogs reveled in a big victory over their biggest rival."I can't say enough good things about the team," East Buchanan coach Dave Elms said. "It was a true team effort tonight. Some guys didn't get in of course, but they were involved with the game and encouraged everyone. I mean, phenomenal. First (district title in baseball) in school history.""Mid-Buch has had total power over us the last four years in (boys' sports) at least," junior Conner Musser said. "And to finally bring it home for our seniors for the first time forever. At least, for the first time since I've been in high school, it feels really good."East Buchanan got off to a strong start, hanging three runs on three hits and a walk in the top of the first.The Dragons (14-6) responded quickly, scoring three runs off of a pair of walks and then RBI singles from Tyler Brown and Tucker Holden in the bottom of the frame.After a hit batter and another walk, Mid-Buchanan loaded the bases, but what started as a light rain shower intensified somewhat and caused a delay that lasted just over 10 minutes."When's the umpire going to step in and put a stoppage to it?" Dave Elms had wondered. "It was getting a little dangerous. Couldn't grip the ball real well and the bases were getting slick and so forth. I know they were trying to prolong that inning and that streak and I understand. I'd have done the same thing."Dave's big brother, Mid-Buchanan head coach Rod Elms, wanted the game to keep going, but understood the reason for the delay."That was a big time of the game to delay it," he said, "because momentum is big, but I get it. For safety of the kids. So, I get it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621480130567.jpeg" alt="Fans broke out the umbrellas in Weston during a rain delay between Mid-Buchanan and East Buchanan. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Fans broke out the umbrellas in Weston during a rain delay between Mid-Buchanan and East Buchanan. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>The stoppage didn't slow Mid-Buchanan's early momentum. In the second at-bat after the game's resumption, junior Rawlins Brant ripped a grand slam to right field, giving the Dragons an 8-3 lead after a lengthy first inning.After getting a run back in the second, the Bulldogs' bats came alive in the third. A two-run RBI double by Kaden Woodside and a pair of Mid-Buchanan errors sparked a five-run frame, and gave East Buchanan the lead back at 9-8."Our energy from the bus ride here all the way here, we were really up," said Musser, who scored two runs and drove in a pair. "We know that we've had a couple comeback wins this year. We knew that we're never out of a game with our offense, and are just really confident in ourselves."East Buchanan hung another five-spot in the fifth inning, thanks in part to a double from senior Drew Thompson, two walks and another Mid-Buchanan error.The Dragons got a run back in the bottom half of the fifth, but still trailed 14-9 entering the sixth.After relief pitcher Denton Biller struck out two batters to end the top of the sixth, Mid-Buchanan loaded the bases with three walks, and Holden was hit by a pitch to drive in a run. In the next at-bat, junior Blake Hunter drove in two more runs with an RBI single to right.Suddenly, it's a 14-12 East Buchanan lead headed to the seventh."They did not totally quit and they kept battling," Rod Elms said. "Now, was that some crazy baseball with walks and errors, and you can blame the rain with a wet field, but they put the ball in play, and I don't think they struck out much. That's the key in high school baseball. Put the ball in play. Make something happen."In the seventh, senior Kaden Anderson climbed the hill for Mid-Buchanan and performed well, coming off of a wrist injury from a month-and-a-half prior. While he gave up a pair of two-out singles, East Buchanan's Cameron Henry lined out to third base to end the threat.With three outs left to get, Dave Elms made a pitching change. Musser had made the start, but was pulled in the first inning after giving up eight earned runs, including Brant's grand slam.After a solid 4.2 innings of middle relief from sophomore Bronco Whitt, Elms decided to give Musser another chance. Mid-Buchanan got the tying run to the plate, but Musser got the save in just four at-bats."My coach told me, 'Wipe everything, you're the man, go out there, fresh mind and go attack them,'" Musser said. "Coach (Scott) Antle said his whole motto, this whole district tournament was 'go take it,' so that's what was going through my mind in that last inning."All-in-all, a wildly entertaining game. A combined 26 hits. Three lead changes. Rain delay. A full, divided crowd. A storied rivalry. District title on the line.As fun as all of that is, it's tough to be on the losing end of a game like that. But, Rod Elms could take comfort in one thing Wednesday- being proud of his little brother."He's a good coach," Rod said of his brother, Dave. "If I'm going to lose a district title to someone, I'm glad it was him, because he deserves it."East Buchanan will face District 16 champion Bishop LeBlond in sectionals on Monday in Gower. LeBlond took down Maysville 11-10 in walk-off fashion.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621480297678.jpeg" alt="Conner Musser." />
 <figcaption>Conner Musser.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621480322006.jpeg" alt="Bronco Whitt." />
 <figcaption>Bronco Whitt.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621480365631.jpeg" alt="East Buchanan hoists the District Championship plaque after the game." />
 <figcaption>East Buchanan hoists the District Championship plaque after the game.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

East Buchanan survives thrilling game, tops Mid-Buchanan for first district title in baseball

Bishop LeBlond has taken the team championship in the boys' state golf tournament for the third straight season and the fourth time since 2016.

The Eagles, competing at Crown Point Golf Course in Farmington in Class 3, finished with a team score of 625 - 46 strokes ahead of second place Westminster Christian Academy.

Senior and Missouri Western commit Jeffrey Johnston shot a four-over par 76 Tuesday to finish tied for fourth overall. His younger brother, freshman Timothy Johnston, shot a 5-over par 77 to finish 6th. Sophomore Sam Schoeberl shot a 6-over par 78 to finish tied for 8th.

Freshman Patrick Johnston shot an 8-over par 80 on the final day to finish tied for 10th.

LeBlond has now won the boys' golf team state championship in three different Classes - Class 2 in 2018, Class 1 in 2019 and Class 3 in 2021.

Class 5 Another future Missouri Western golfer, St. Joseph Central senior Daniel Love, had a great second day Tuesday, shooting a one-under par 69 to finish even par for the tournament and place 4th overall - just seven shots away from first.

Love's tournament score of 140 is the best individual team score Central has ever had in the state meet.

Love was also the highest placer in the Class 5 field from a public school.

Class 1 Mid-Buchanan's Noah Hughes shot a five-over par 74 on Tuesday for a tournament score of 151 and a third place finish - just five shots off of first place.

Class 1 (Freemont Mills Country Club in Nixa) Noah Hughes - Mid-Buchanan - 151 (77, 74, +13) - 3rd Landon Marticke - Stanberry - 175 (88, 87,+37) - 31st Gage Salsbury - Mound City - 194 (96, 98, +56) - tied for 59th Lane Ellison - Mid-Buchanan - 195 (, 102, 93, +57) - 62nd Collin Sager - Stanberry - 206 (98, 108, +68) - 66th Kolby Sweiger - Maysville - 218 (105, 113, +80) -68th

Class 3 (Crown Point Country Club in Farmington) Jeffrey Johnston - Bishop LeBlond - 154 (78, 76,+10) - tied for 4th Timothy Johnston - Bishop LeBlond - 155 (78, 77, +11) - 6th Sam Schoeberl - Bishop LeBlond - 157 (79, 78, +13) - tied for 8th Patrick Johnston - Bishop LeBlond - 159 (79, 80, +15) - tied for 10th Davis Jungbluth - Bishop LeBlond - 166 (84, 82,+22) - tied for 18th Trevin Cunningham - Maryville - 168 (85, 83 +24) - tied for 26th Ethan Scott - Maryville - 183 (94, 89, +39) - tied for 56th Jacob Scott - Maryville - 184 (95, 89, +40) - tied for 59th Zachary Vega - Savannah - 187 (95, 92, +43) - 63rd Samuel Ryan - Lafayette - 189 (95, 94, +45)- 65th

Class 5 (Sedalia Country Club) Daniel Love - St. Joseph Central - 140 (71, 69, even) - 4th Andrew Wheatley - St. Joseph Central - 173 (89, 84, +33) - 77th

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBishop LeBlond has taken the team championship in the boys' state golf tournament for the third straight season and the fourth time since 2016.The Eagles, competing at Crown Point Golf Course in Farmington in Class 3, finished with a team score of 625 - 46 strokes ahead of second place Westminster Christian Academy.Senior and Missouri Western commit Jeffrey Johnston shot a four-over par 76 Tuesday to finish tied for fourth overall. His younger brother, freshman Timothy Johnston, shot a 5-over par 77 to finish 6th. Sophomore Sam Schoeberl shot a 6-over par 78 to finish tied for 8th.Freshman Patrick Johnston shot an 8-over par 80 on the final day to finish tied for 10th.LeBlond has now won the boys' golf team state championship in three different Classes - Class 2 in 2018, Class 1 in 2019 and Class 3 in 2021.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Bishop LeBlond wins the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSHSAA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSHSAA</a> Class 3 Boys Golf team with a combined score of 625 at Crown Point Golf Club in Farmington. Westminster Christian Academy was 2nd, followed by Blair Oaks and Notre Dame (Cape Girardeau).<a href="https://t.co/IsB27Xh67b">https://t.co/IsB27Xh67b</a> <a href="https://t.co/gVo80k6rTd">pic.twitter.com/gVo80k6rTd</a>&mdash; MSHSAA (@MSHSAAOrg) <a href="https://twitter.com/MSHSAAOrg/status/1394763283857649668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>Class 5 Another future Missouri Western golfer, St. Joseph Central senior Daniel Love, had a great second day Tuesday, shooting a one-under par 69 to finish even par for the tournament and place 4th overall - just seven shots away from first.Love's tournament score of 140 is the best individual team score Central has ever had in the state meet.Love was also the highest placer in the Class 5 field from a public school.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Individual State Medalists! Daniel Love, (front row, 2nd from left), finished fourth overall with an even par 140! This is the best individual team score Central has ever had! ⛳️⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/SJNPSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SJNPSports</a>⁩ ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/KQ2SPORTS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KQ2SPORTS</a>⁩ ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/chrisRroush?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chrisRroush</a>⁩ ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/CHS_Indians?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CHS_Indians</a>⁩ ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/DCLau5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DCLau5</a>⁩ <a href="https://t.co/Cbj2C9uRHq">pic.twitter.com/Cbj2C9uRHq</a>&mdash; Joy Vandel (@VandelJoy) <a href="https://twitter.com/VandelJoy/status/1394744189624012800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>Class 1 Mid-Buchanan's Noah Hughes shot a five-over par 74 on Tuesday for a tournament score of 151 and a third place finish - just five shots off of first place.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Noah Hughes claims 3rd Place at the Class 1 State Tournament! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MBDragonPride?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MBDragonPride</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SJNPSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SJNPSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KQ2SPORTS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KQ2SPORTS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TommyKFEQ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TommyKFEQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/apiZYS14Bp">pic.twitter.com/apiZYS14Bp</a>&mdash; Mid Buchanan (@MBDragonSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/MBDragonSports/status/1394766642358460422?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>Full area leaderboardClass 1 (Freemont Mills Country Club in Nixa) Noah Hughes - Mid-Buchanan - 151 (77, 74, +13) - 3rd Landon Marticke - Stanberry - 175 (88, 87,+37) - 31st Gage Salsbury - Mound City - 194 (96, 98, +56) - tied for 59th Lane Ellison - Mid-Buchanan - 195 (, 102, 93, +57) - 62nd Collin Sager - Stanberry - 206 (98, 108, +68) - 66th Kolby Sweiger - Maysville - 218 (105, 113, +80) -68thClass 3 (Crown Point Country Club in Farmington) Jeffrey Johnston - Bishop LeBlond - 154 (78, 76,+10) - tied for 4th Timothy Johnston - Bishop LeBlond - 155 (78, 77, +11) - 6th Sam Schoeberl - Bishop LeBlond - 157 (79, 78, +13) - tied for 8th Patrick Johnston - Bishop LeBlond - 159 (79, 80, +15) - tied for 10th Davis Jungbluth - Bishop LeBlond - 166 (84, 82,+22) - tied for 18th Trevin Cunningham - Maryville - 168 (85, 83 +24) - tied for 26th Ethan Scott - Maryville - 183 (94, 89, +39) - tied for 56th Jacob Scott - Maryville - 184 (95, 89, +40) - tied for 59th Zachary Vega - Savannah - 187 (95, 92, +43) - 63rd Samuel Ryan - Lafayette - 189 (95, 94, +45)- 65th Class 5 (Sedalia Country Club) Daniel Love - St. Joseph Central - 140 (71, 69, even) - 4th Andrew Wheatley - St. Joseph Central - 173 (89, 84, +33) - 77th

LeBlond wins team title, Mid-Buch's Hughes, Central's Love finish in top five at state golf

Senior Jayden Little went 3-for-4 at the plate with three RBIs and pitched the final two innings to help lead Lafayette (16-7) to a 9-3 win over Cameron Tuesday afternoon at the Missouri Western baseball field in the first of two Class 4 District 16 semifinal games.

Lafayette, the No. 1 seed, jumped on Cameron (7-12) from the get-go, scoring three runs on four hits in the first inning.

The Irish added three more runs on four more hits in the third and scratched across two insurance runs in the fifth and one more in the sixth - part of a 12-hit game.

"We talked about it before the game - just find a way to put the ball in play," Little said. "Minimize the strikeouts and we'll have a chance to get on and score runs as much as we can."

On the mound, senior Zach Langley made the start and held the Dragons scoreless through four innings. With bases loaded in the fifth however, freshman Levi Schreer came in relief and forced a pair of flyouts to limit the damage and preserve a 6-2 lead.

Little came on the mound in the sixth and struck out the side. Cameron managed a couple walks and a couple hits in the seventh and got one run across, but a double play and flyout quickly ended the inning and the game.

"We needed to come out and see some live at-bats," Lafayette coach Matt Jansen said, "and take care of business. We didn't look past anyone. It was one out, one inning at a time, one pitch at a time. I liked our energy."

Hilsabeck's complete game, three hits lead Savages past Maryville

Junior Tyson Hilsabeck tossed a complete game on the mound and went 3-for-4 at the plate, leading Savannah past Maryville 6-2 in the second Class 4 District 16 semifinal Tuesday.

Hilsabeck struck out four, while walking and hitting nobody. Maryville (14-9) managed eight hits and had two on with nobody out in the top of the seventh, but Hilsabeck stayed in the game, forcing a couple of groundouts and getting a strikeout to seal the victory.

At the plate, Hilsabeck had a pair of doubles and drove in a pair of runs. Leading 3-1 in the bottom of the sixth, Hilsabeck hit a two-run RBI double into bases loaded.

Sophomore Ethan Dudeck also scored in the sixth, thanks to a throwing error. Errors plagued the Spoofhounds Tuesday. They committed four of them, including three in the first inning which allowed Savannah to nab an early 3-0 lead.&nbsp;

The Savages went 3-1 against Maryville this season, and now they look to beat a team they've lost to twice - Lafayette. The Irish beat Savannah 4-0 on March 30 and again 2-0 just last Tuesday.

With Lafayette senior, ace pitcher and Oklahoma commit Brayden Luikart likely to start on the mound in Thursday's district championship, Hilsabeck knows what he and his team are up against.

The question now is - can Savannah break through against Lafayette's best arm?

"If I had to guess, we're seeing Luikart," Hilsabeck said. "We've seen him once. He's obviously a really good pitcher, but we've got to get something going on him."

After winning districts and placing 3rd at state in 2019, Savannah coach Erich Bodenhausen says his team not only has to beat Lafayette to get where they want to go. But, they also can't beat themselves.

"We've talked about it all year long - our goal is to go out there and have good approaches," Bodenhausen remarked. "We're battling ourselves as much as we are the other team."

Thursday's district title is set for 5 p.m. at Phil Welch Stadium, weather permitting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621394447444.jpeg" alt="Savannah's Tyson Hilsabeck tossed a complete game in the Savages' 6-2 win over Maryville in the Class 4 District 16 semifinal Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Savannah's Tyson Hilsabeck tossed a complete game in the Savages' 6-2 win over Maryville in the Class 4 District 16 semifinal Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSenior Jayden Little went 3-for-4 at the plate with three RBIs and pitched the final two innings to help lead Lafayette (16-7) to a 9-3 win over Cameron Tuesday afternoon at the Missouri Western baseball field in the first of two Class 4 District 16 semifinal games.Lafayette, the No. 1 seed, jumped on Cameron (7-12) from the get-go, scoring three runs on four hits in the first inning.The Irish added three more runs on four more hits in the third and scratched across two insurance runs in the fifth and one more in the sixth - part of a 12-hit game."We talked about it before the game - just find a way to put the ball in play," Little said. "Minimize the strikeouts and we'll have a chance to get on and score runs as much as we can."On the mound, senior Zach Langley made the start and held the Dragons scoreless through four innings. With bases loaded in the fifth however, freshman Levi Schreer came in relief and forced a pair of flyouts to limit the damage and preserve a 6-2 lead.Little came on the mound in the sixth and struck out the side. Cameron managed a couple walks and a couple hits in the seventh and got one run across, but a double play and flyout quickly ended the inning and the game."We needed to come out and see some live at-bats," Lafayette coach Matt Jansen said, "and take care of business. We didn't look past anyone. It was one out, one inning at a time, one pitch at a time. I liked our energy."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621394566622.jpeg" alt="Lafayette's Chance Herie makes contact during the Irish's 9-3 win over Cameron Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Lafayette's Chance Herie makes contact during the Irish's 9-3 win over Cameron Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hilsabeck's complete game, three hits lead Savages past MaryvilleJunior Tyson Hilsabeck tossed a complete game on the mound and went 3-for-4 at the plate, leading Savannah past Maryville 6-2 in the second Class 4 District 16 semifinal Tuesday.Hilsabeck struck out four, while walking and hitting nobody. Maryville (14-9) managed eight hits and had two on with nobody out in the top of the seventh, but Hilsabeck stayed in the game, forcing a couple of groundouts and getting a strikeout to seal the victory.At the plate, Hilsabeck had a pair of doubles and drove in a pair of runs. Leading 3-1 in the bottom of the sixth, Hilsabeck hit a two-run RBI double into bases loaded.Sophomore Ethan Dudeck also scored in the sixth, thanks to a throwing error. Errors plagued the Spoofhounds Tuesday. They committed four of them, including three in the first inning which allowed Savannah to nab an early 3-0 lead.&nbsp;The Savages went 3-1 against Maryville this season, and now they look to beat a team they've lost to twice - Lafayette. The Irish beat Savannah 4-0 on March 30 and again 2-0 just last Tuesday.With Lafayette senior, ace pitcher and Oklahoma commit Brayden Luikart likely to start on the mound in Thursday's district championship, Hilsabeck knows what he and his team are up against.The question now is - can Savannah break through against Lafayette's best arm?"If I had to guess, we're seeing Luikart," Hilsabeck said. "We've seen him once. He's obviously a really good pitcher, but we've got to get something going on him."After winning districts and placing 3rd at state in 2019, Savannah coach Erich Bodenhausen says his team not only has to beat Lafayette to get where they want to go. But, they also can't beat themselves."We've talked about it all year long - our goal is to go out there and have good approaches," Bodenhausen remarked. "We're battling ourselves as much as we are the other team."Thursday's district title is set for 5 p.m. at Phil Welch Stadium, weather permitting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621394626323.jpeg" alt="Savannah's Aiden Leonard takes aim at a pitch during the Savages' 6-2 win over Maryville Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Savannah's Aiden Leonard takes aim at a pitch during the Savages' 6-2 win over Maryville Tuesday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Lafayette tops Cameron, Savannah quiets Maryville in district semis Tuesday

The Kansas City Royals have announced that Kauffman Stadium will return to full capacity, starting&nbsp;May 31&nbsp;when the Royals host the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Masks will no longer be required for vaccinated fans, but are still recommended for non-vaccinated fans.

Single-game tickets for that game, as well as the rest of the season, will go on sale on&nbsp;Thursday&nbsp;at&nbsp;10 a.m. CT, at Royals.com.&nbsp;Tickets will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

“The thought of having the opportunity to fill Kauffman Stadium again gives all of us a huge jolt of adrenaline,” said Royals' manager&nbsp;Mike Matheny&nbsp;in a release. “After having no fans in the ballpark last year, the crowds this year have been passionate and loud, so expanding the capacity to the max can only strengthen our home field advantage at The K.”

Many of the Royals’ health and safety protocols from the beginning of the season will remain in place, including restrictions on bags and outside food in the stadium.

Tickets and parking will only be accessible on mobile devices via the MLB Ballpark app and must be purchased in advance. The stadium will continue to be cashless, meaning a credit or debit card is needed to make on-site purchases.

The Outfield Experience and Hall of Fame will also re-open on May 31.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593174043524.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe Kansas City Royals have announced that Kauffman Stadium will return to full capacity, starting&nbsp;May 31&nbsp;when the Royals host the Pittsburgh Pirates.Masks will no longer be required for vaccinated fans, but are still recommended for non-vaccinated fans.Single-game tickets for that game, as well as the rest of the season, will go on sale on&nbsp;Thursday&nbsp;at&nbsp;10 a.m. CT, at Royals.com.&nbsp;Tickets will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. “The thought of having the opportunity to fill Kauffman Stadium again gives all of us a huge jolt of adrenaline,” said Royals' manager&nbsp;Mike Matheny&nbsp;in a release. “After having no fans in the ballpark last year, the crowds this year have been passionate and loud, so expanding the capacity to the max can only strengthen our home field advantage at The K.”Many of the Royals’ health and safety protocols from the beginning of the season will remain in place, including restrictions on bags and outside food in the stadium.Tickets and parking will only be accessible on mobile devices via the MLB Ballpark app and must be purchased in advance. The stadium will continue to be cashless, meaning a credit or debit card is needed to make on-site purchases.The Outfield Experience and Hall of Fame will also re-open on May 31.

Kansas City Royals to allow for full capacity at games starting May 31

&nbsp;Missouri Western men's basketball head coach&nbsp;Will Martin&nbsp;has completed his coaching staff for the 2021-22 season, and has once again tapped into the Kentucky pipeline to do so.

Ty Danielson&nbsp;is back for a second straight season as an assistant coach. Jon Hood, a former Kentucky player, was hired as an assistant coach earlier this month, and now former Wildcat Perry Stevenson will also assist Martin this upcoming season. Stevenson played with Coach Hood at the University of Kentucky in the 2009-2010 season and Martin was a student manager on that team. "Perry was a huge part of our success at Kentucky, and will be instrumental in helping us establish the new STANDARD at Missouri Western," said Martin in a release. "With his experience as a starting big in the SEC and as a pro, he brings a unique vantage point of what it takes to develop into a consistent everyday player at the highest level.

"Perry is one of the finest human beings I know and he will be a huge asset in helping us build high character young men off the floor. He understands that it is always bigger than basketball, and I can't wait for Griff Nation to get to know the Perry I have grown to love and respect with utmost regard." As a player at Kentucky, Stevenson appeared in 134 games over his four-year career from 2006-2010.&nbsp; He's seventh in UK history in career blocked shots with 159.

Stevenson scored 602 points, had 490 rebounds and shot 57.8 percent during his career. "I'm so ecstatic about joining this staff and getting to work with this team," said Stevenson.&nbsp; "It's not often you get brought into a situation that is already so special. &nbsp;I'm looking forward to putting the work in and building on that to take Griffon basketball to the next level." After graduating from Kentucky, Stevenson played professionally from 2010-2013 as he was in the NBA Development League for two seasons and also played overseas in Portugal. Stevenson got into coaching, starting as an assistant at Trinity High School in Louisville, Kentucky and at his alma mater Northside High School in Lafayette, Louisiana. Stevenson stepped away from coaching after his son was born and worked in the healthcare industry, but he stayed involved in basketball by working summer camps and youth leagues in the Lexington area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621365471981.jpeg" alt="Courtesy GoGriffons.com." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy GoGriffons.com.</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Missouri Western men's basketball head coach&nbsp;Will Martin&nbsp;has completed his coaching staff for the 2021-22 season, and has once again tapped into the Kentucky pipeline to do so.Ty Danielson&nbsp;is back for a second straight season as an assistant coach. Jon Hood, a former Kentucky player, was hired as an assistant coach earlier this month, and now former Wildcat Perry Stevenson will also assist Martin this upcoming season. Stevenson played with Coach Hood at the University of Kentucky in the 2009-2010 season and Martin was a student manager on that team. "Perry was a huge part of our success at Kentucky, and will be instrumental in helping us establish the new STANDARD at Missouri Western," said Martin in a release. "With his experience as a starting big in the SEC and as a pro, he brings a unique vantage point of what it takes to develop into a consistent everyday player at the highest level."Perry is one of the finest human beings I know and he will be a huge asset in helping us build high character young men off the floor. He understands that it is always bigger than basketball, and I can't wait for Griff Nation to get to know the Perry I have grown to love and respect with utmost regard." As a player at Kentucky, Stevenson appeared in 134 games over his four-year career from 2006-2010.&nbsp; He's seventh in UK history in career blocked shots with 159.Stevenson scored 602 points, had 490 rebounds and shot 57.8 percent during his career. "I'm so ecstatic about joining this staff and getting to work with this team," said Stevenson.&nbsp; "It's not often you get brought into a situation that is already so special. &nbsp;I'm looking forward to putting the work in and building on that to take Griffon basketball to the next level." After graduating from Kentucky, Stevenson played professionally from 2010-2013 as he was in the NBA Development League for two seasons and also played overseas in Portugal. Stevenson got into coaching, starting as an assistant at Trinity High School in Louisville, Kentucky and at his alma mater Northside High School in Lafayette, Louisiana. Stevenson stepped away from coaching after his son was born and worked in the healthcare industry, but he stayed involved in basketball by working summer camps and youth leagues in the Lexington area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Missouri Western hires former Kentucky player Perry Stevenson as men's basketball assistant

Class 2 District 15 - Weston Mid-Buchanan 5 West Platte 1. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/388ca5a9-b860-4c2f-a4b0-c494017bb244">Full coverage here</a>. East Buchanan 5 Plattsburg 1. District championship - East Buchanan vs. Mid-Buchanan. 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Class 1 District 16 - Guilford Platte Valley 3 St. Joseph Christian 0 Northeast Nodaway 12 South Holt 1 (six innings) District championship - Platte Valley vs. Northeast Nodaway. 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Class 2 District 16 - Missouri Western baseball field Bishop LeBlond 7 Union Star 1 Maysville 9 East Atchison 5 District championship - LeBlond vs. Maysville. 5 p.m. Wednesday at Phil Welch Stadium

Class 3 District 15 - Lathrop Lathrop 8 Lawson 1 District championship - St. Pius X vs. Lathrop. 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Class 6 District 8 - Parkville Park Hill 9 St. Joseph Central 0

Class 2 District 8 quarterfinals - Chillicothe Excelsior Springs 3 Benton 1 Chillicothe 6 Cameron 0 Savannah 4 Lafayette 0

Semifinal - Maryville vs. Excelsior Springs - 5 p.m. Tuesday. Semifinal - Chillicothe vs. Savannah - 7 p.m. Tuesday.

State golf Bishop LeBlond is firmly in the team lead, while Mid-Buchanan's Noah Hughes and St. Joseph Central's Daniel Love are not far off the lead. Full Day 1 leaderboard <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/6b48d834-d839-4d1a-b1a7-b4ef43a22654">here</a>.

Sectional tennis The Savannah Boys' tennis team's season came to an end Monday at the Plaza Tennis Center in Kansas City.

The Savages swept Trenton in the sectional round 5-0 after an hour-and-a-half rain delay.

After another rain delay, Savannah faced Kansas City’s Barstow - the District 13 champion who made quick work of Marshall earlier in the day.

Barstow had too much experience, and swept the Savages 5-0, ending the team’s state aspirations.

The Savages end their season at 16-1, but Drew and Matt Collier, Connor Peek and Evan Heftye and Cole Horton <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/2409dcfc-bff1-49ad-bdf8-e934b22bca99">compete in the individual state tournament</a> in Springfield this Friday and Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621300070559.jpeg" alt="Mid-Buchanan sophomore Denton Biller puts the bat on the ball during Monday's district semfinal win over West Platte. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Buchanan sophomore Denton Biller puts the bat on the ball during Monday's district semfinal win over West Platte. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostBaseballClass 2 District 15 - Weston Mid-Buchanan 5 West Platte 1. <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/388ca5a9-b860-4c2f-a4b0-c494017bb244">Full coverage here</a>. East Buchanan 5 Plattsburg 1. District championship - East Buchanan vs. Mid-Buchanan. 5 p.m. Wednesday.Class 1 District 16 - Guilford Platte Valley 3 St. Joseph Christian 0 Northeast Nodaway 12 South Holt 1 (six innings) District championship - Platte Valley vs. Northeast Nodaway. 5 p.m. Wednesday.Class 2 District 16 - Missouri Western baseball field Bishop LeBlond 7 Union Star 1 Maysville 9 East Atchison 5 District championship - LeBlond vs. Maysville. 5 p.m. Wednesday at Phil Welch StadiumClass 3 District 15 - Lathrop Lathrop 8 Lawson 1 District championship - St. Pius X vs. Lathrop. 5 p.m. Wednesday.Class 6 District 8 - Parkville Park Hill 9 St. Joseph Central 0Girls' soccerClass 2 District 8 quarterfinals - Chillicothe Excelsior Springs 3 Benton 1 Chillicothe 6 Cameron 0 Savannah 4 Lafayette 0Semifinal - Maryville vs. Excelsior Springs - 5 p.m. Tuesday. Semifinal - Chillicothe vs. Savannah - 7 p.m. Tuesday.State golf Bishop LeBlond is firmly in the team lead, while Mid-Buchanan's Noah Hughes and St. Joseph Central's Daniel Love are not far off the lead. Full Day 1 leaderboard <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/6b48d834-d839-4d1a-b1a7-b4ef43a22654">here</a>.Sectional tennis The Savannah Boys' tennis team's season came to an end Monday at the Plaza Tennis Center in Kansas City.The Savages swept Trenton in the sectional round 5-0 after an hour-and-a-half rain delay.After another rain delay, Savannah faced Kansas City’s Barstow - the District 13 champion who made quick work of Marshall earlier in the day.Barstow had too much experience, and swept the Savages 5-0, ending the team’s state aspirations.The Savages end their season at 16-1, but Drew and Matt Collier, Connor Peek and Evan Heftye and Cole Horton <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/2409dcfc-bff1-49ad-bdf8-e934b22bca99">compete in the individual state tournament</a> in Springfield this Friday and Saturday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621039265035.jpeg" alt="From left to right: Coach Wakefield Hare, Evan Heftye, Connor Peek, Cole Horton, Matt Collier, Drew Collier and assistant coach Scott Horton. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>From left to right: Coach Wakefield Hare, Evan Heftye, Connor Peek, Cole Horton, Matt Collier, Drew Collier and assistant coach Scott Horton. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

KFEQ/St. Joseph Post area high school scoreboard - May 17, 2021

Despite some rain delays to start the day, numerous area golfers completed their first day of competition in state golf at various sites across the state on Monday.

Class 1 (Freemont Mills Country Club in Nixa) Noah Hughes - Mid-Buchanan - 77 (+8) - tied for 5th, four shots off the lead Landon Marticke - Stanberry - 88 (+19) - tied for 33rd Gage Salsbury - Mound City - 96 (+27) - tied for 54th Collin Sager - Stanberry - 98 (+29) - 62nd Lane Ellison - Mid-Buchanan - 102 (+33) - 66th Kolby Sweiger - Maysville - 105 (+36) - t-68th

Class 3 (Crown Point Country Club in Farmington) Jeffrey Johnston - Bishop LeBlond - 78 (+6) - tied for 4th, seven shots off the lead Timothy Johnston - Bishop LeBlond - 78 (+6) - tied for 4th, seven shots off the lead Patrick Johnston - Bishop LeBlond - 79 (+7) - tied for 10th Sam Schoeberl - Bishop LeBlond -&nbsp;79 (+7) - tied for 10th Davis Jungbluth - Bishop LeBlond - 84 (+12) - tied for 22nd Trevin Cunningham - Maryville - 85 (+13) - tied for 28th Ethan Scott - Maryville - 94 (+22) - tied for 61st Jacob Scott - Maryville - 95 (+23) - tied for 65th Samuel Ryan - Lafayette - 95 (+23) - tied for 65th Zachary Vega - Savannah - 95 (+23) - tied for 65th

Class 3 team standings Bishop LeBlond - 1st place (314, +26) Westminster Christian Academy - 2nd place (338, +50)

Class 5 (Sedalia Country Club) Daniel Love - St. Joseph Central - 71 (+1) - tied for 7th, four shots off the lead Andrew Wheatley - St. Joseph Central - 89 (+19) - 77th

All meets are slated to continue at 8 a.m. on Tuesday weather permitting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617996392123.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostDespite some rain delays to start the day, numerous area golfers completed their first day of competition in state golf at various sites across the state on Monday.Class 1 (Freemont Mills Country Club in Nixa) Noah Hughes - Mid-Buchanan - 77 (+8) - tied for 5th, four shots off the lead Landon Marticke - Stanberry - 88 (+19) - tied for 33rd Gage Salsbury - Mound City - 96 (+27) - tied for 54th Collin Sager - Stanberry - 98 (+29) - 62nd Lane Ellison - Mid-Buchanan - 102 (+33) - 66th Kolby Sweiger - Maysville - 105 (+36) - t-68thClass 3 (Crown Point Country Club in Farmington) Jeffrey Johnston - Bishop LeBlond - 78 (+6) - tied for 4th, seven shots off the lead Timothy Johnston - Bishop LeBlond - 78 (+6) - tied for 4th, seven shots off the lead Patrick Johnston - Bishop LeBlond - 79 (+7) - tied for 10th Sam Schoeberl - Bishop LeBlond -&nbsp;79 (+7) - tied for 10th Davis Jungbluth - Bishop LeBlond - 84 (+12) - tied for 22nd Trevin Cunningham - Maryville - 85 (+13) - tied for 28th Ethan Scott - Maryville - 94 (+22) - tied for 61st Jacob Scott - Maryville - 95 (+23) - tied for 65th Samuel Ryan - Lafayette - 95 (+23) - tied for 65th Zachary Vega - Savannah - 95 (+23) - tied for 65thClass 3 team standings Bishop LeBlond - 1st place (314, +26) Westminster Christian Academy - 2nd place (338, +50)Class 5 (Sedalia Country Club) Daniel Love - St. Joseph Central - 71 (+1) - tied for 7th, four shots off the lead Andrew Wheatley - St. Joseph Central - 89 (+19) - 77thAll meets are slated to continue at 8 a.m. on Tuesday weather permitting.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

State golf leaderboard after Day 1 - LeBlond sits first in Class 3 team standings

WESTON - Cade Bradford wasn't too happy with the way he had been hitting the baseball in practice in recent days.

So, he took 300 swings on Sunday to get himself ready for Monday's Class 2 District 15 semifinal against West Platte.

Bradford went 3-for-3 at the plate with two doubles, an RBI and a run scored as No. 1 seed Mid-Buchanan (14-5) defeated No. 4 seed West Platte 5-1 in Weston on Monday afternoon.

"During practice the last few days when we had hitting days, I hadn't hit the ball very well at all," said Bradford. "I kind of lost confidence. Even today, I hit off the tee a little bit, and yesterday, I took 300 swings and it got my confidence back a little bit, and it just carried over to the game."

It apparently carried over to the pitching mound as well, as Bradford made the start and allowed only one run while not issuing a single walk or hitting any batters. He also struck out three.

The Bluejays (10-12) managed seven hits, but the Dragons committed only one error in the field. West Platte also stranded eight base runners.

"They were hitting the ball hard and putting the ball in play," Bradford pointed out. "It's just that our defense came out to play and did their job."

Mid-Buchanan had been idle for a week entering Monday's game, while West Platte had to play their way into Monday's semifinal with a 7-4 win over Wellington-Napoleon on Saturday.

Dragons' coach Rod Elms was a little worried that his guys might be shaky having not played for a week, but his team rose to the occasion.

"All-in-all, we hit the ball alright with timely hitting," Elms said. "We had only what, one error? Also, great pitching. Just proud of how they just battled and played good, clean baseball."

The Dragons got on the board first in the bottom of the second. Sophomore Denton Biller reached second on a fielding error, stole third and was able to score after a balk by West Platte pitcher Wyatt Smith.

The Jays tied the game in the top of the third with an RBI single from Dublin Carnahan, but Mid-Buchanan scored two runs on three straight hits to take a 3-1 lead entering the fourth.

The Dragons tacked on an insurance run in both the fourth and sixth innings.

West Platte managed to get bases loaded in the top of the seventh, but junior Caiden Bailey struck out two batters to cap off the victory.

Sophomore Derek Sprague and senior Javan Noyes both singled and scored in the victory for Mid-Buchanan, who will now face East Buchanan in the district championship on Wednesday at 5 p.m.

The Bulldogs beat Plattsburg Monday night, 5-1.

"I got seven seniors who want this title," Elms said. "We'll see what happens. Two good teams. Hopefully, we'll play well against either one of them, because they're both good teams."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621299837710.jpeg" alt="Mid-Buchanan senior Cade Bradford throws a pitch in the first inning of Monday's Class 2 District 15 semifinal. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Buchanan senior Cade Bradford throws a pitch in the first inning of Monday's Class 2 District 15 semifinal. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostWESTON - Cade Bradford wasn't too happy with the way he had been hitting the baseball in practice in recent days.So, he took 300 swings on Sunday to get himself ready for Monday's Class 2 District 15 semifinal against West Platte.The 300th time's a charm, apparently.Bradford went 3-for-3 at the plate with two doubles, an RBI and a run scored as No. 1 seed Mid-Buchanan (14-5) defeated No. 4 seed West Platte 5-1 in Weston on Monday afternoon."During practice the last few days when we had hitting days, I hadn't hit the ball very well at all," said Bradford. "I kind of lost confidence. Even today, I hit off the tee a little bit, and yesterday, I took 300 swings and it got my confidence back a little bit, and it just carried over to the game."It apparently carried over to the pitching mound as well, as Bradford made the start and allowed only one run while not issuing a single walk or hitting any batters. He also struck out three.The Bluejays (10-12) managed seven hits, but the Dragons committed only one error in the field. West Platte also stranded eight base runners."They were hitting the ball hard and putting the ball in play," Bradford pointed out. "It's just that our defense came out to play and did their job."Mid-Buchanan had been idle for a week entering Monday's game, while West Platte had to play their way into Monday's semifinal with a 7-4 win over Wellington-Napoleon on Saturday.Dragons' coach Rod Elms was a little worried that his guys might be shaky having not played for a week, but his team rose to the occasion."All-in-all, we hit the ball alright with timely hitting," Elms said. "We had only what, one error? Also, great pitching. Just proud of how they just battled and played good, clean baseball."The Dragons got on the board first in the bottom of the second. Sophomore Denton Biller reached second on a fielding error, stole third and was able to score after a balk by West Platte pitcher Wyatt Smith.The Jays tied the game in the top of the third with an RBI single from Dublin Carnahan, but Mid-Buchanan scored two runs on three straight hits to take a 3-1 lead entering the fourth.The Dragons tacked on an insurance run in both the fourth and sixth innings.West Platte managed to get bases loaded in the top of the seventh, but junior Caiden Bailey struck out two batters to cap off the victory.Sophomore Derek Sprague and senior Javan Noyes both singled and scored in the victory for Mid-Buchanan, who will now face East Buchanan in the district championship on Wednesday at 5 p.m.The Bulldogs beat Plattsburg Monday night, 5-1."I got seven seniors who want this title," Elms said. "We'll see what happens. Two good teams. Hopefully, we'll play well against either one of them, because they're both good teams."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621300070559.jpeg" alt="Sophomore Denton Biller puts the bat on the ball during Monday's district semfinal win over West Platte. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Sophomore Denton Biller puts the bat on the ball during Monday's district semfinal win over West Platte. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621300130949.jpeg" alt="Mid-Buchanan senior Tucker Holden makes contact during the Dragons' 5-1 win over West Platte Monday. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Mid-Buchanan senior Tucker Holden makes contact during the Dragons' 5-1 win over West Platte Monday. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621300181917.jpeg" alt="Junior Caiden Bailey makes contact during Mid-Buchanan's 5-1 win over West Platte on Monday in Weston. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>Junior Caiden Bailey makes contact during Mid-Buchanan's 5-1 win over West Platte on Monday in Weston. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Bradford notches three hits and pitches six innings, Mid-Buchanan tops West Platte in district semis

Class 1 Noah Hughes - Mid-Buchanan (1st place at districts) Landon Marticke - Stanberry (4th at districts) Gage Salsbury - Mound City (5th at districts) Collin Sager - Stanberry (12th at districts) Lane Ellison - Mid-Buchanan (13th at districts) Kolby Sweiger - Maysville (t-13th at districts) Trey Scoles - Maysville (17th at districts)

The Class 1 state meet is at Freemont Mills Country Club in Nixa.&nbsp;Tee time has been delayed.

Class 3 <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/c86b04d1-441c-4f72-8ca5-3af3a3392e19">All five Bishop LeBlond varsity golfers</a> have qualified for the state meet in Farmington at Crown Point Golf Course. Jeffrey Johnston is among the first group of golfers to tee off. The start time has been delayed due to weather.

Ethan Scott - Maryville (7th at districts) Trevin Cunningham (t-11th at districts) Samuel Ryan - Lafayette (t-14th at districts) Jacob Scott - Maryville (17th at districts) Zachary Vega - Savannah (18th at districts)

Class 5 Daniel Love - St. Joseph Central (3rd at districts) Andrew Wheatley - St. Joseph Central (16th at districts)

The Class 5 state meet is at Sedalia Country Club. The start time has been delayed due to weather.

Leaderboards and more information on all state golf meets c<a href="https://www.mshsaa.org/cmspages/BoysGolfChampInfoCentral.aspx">an be found here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618457812868.jpeg" alt="The Bishop LeBlond golf team will look to win the school's fourth state title in boys' golf since 2016. Photo by Tommy Rezac." />
 <figcaption>The Bishop LeBlond golf team will look to win the school's fourth state title in boys' golf since 2016. Photo by Tommy Rezac.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostClass 1 Noah Hughes - Mid-Buchanan (1st place at districts) Landon Marticke - Stanberry (4th at districts) Gage Salsbury - Mound City (5th at districts) Collin Sager - Stanberry (12th at districts) Lane Ellison - Mid-Buchanan (13th at districts) Kolby Sweiger - Maysville (t-13th at districts) Trey Scoles - Maysville (17th at districts)The Class 1 state meet is at Freemont Mills Country Club in Nixa.&nbsp;Tee time has been delayed.Class 3 <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/c86b04d1-441c-4f72-8ca5-3af3a3392e19">All five Bishop LeBlond varsity golfers</a> have qualified for the state meet in Farmington at Crown Point Golf Course. Jeffrey Johnston is among the first group of golfers to tee off. The start time has been delayed due to weather.Also qualifying in Class 3:Ethan Scott - Maryville (7th at districts) Trevin Cunningham (t-11th at districts) Samuel Ryan - Lafayette (t-14th at districts) Jacob Scott - Maryville (17th at districts) Zachary Vega - Savannah (18th at districts)Class 5 Daniel Love - St. Joseph Central (3rd at districts) Andrew Wheatley - St. Joseph Central (16th at districts)The Class 5 state meet is at Sedalia Country Club. The start time has been delayed due to weather.Leaderboards and more information on all state golf meets c<a href="https://www.mshsaa.org/cmspages/BoysGolfChampInfoCentral.aspx">an be found here</a>.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Area golfers competing in state meets across the state Monday, Tuesday

A handful of area track and field athletes in Classes 3-5 have qualified for sectional track meets next weekend.

The top four placers in each district event qualified for sectionals, and the top four placers in sectionals will advance to the state track meet in Jefferson City the following weekend.

Qualifying athletes in classes 3-4 will compete in sectionals at Odessa on Saturday, May 22. 

Class 5 athletes will compete in the sectional meet at Liberty North on the 22nd as well.

Here's a list of the area athletes who have advanced to sectionals organized by school.

Benton (Class 3) Boys' 4x100 meter relay team - 3rd place (45.55) Girls' 4x100 meter relay team - 3rd place (52.96) Caleb Addington - 1st in long jump (20-4), 3rd in triple jump (40-7.5) Devon Hoffmann - 3rd in 200 meter dash (23.70) Tatum Levendahl - 1st in 100 meter hurdles (17.18)

Cameron (Class 3) Girls' 4x400 meter relay team - 2nd place (4:22.45) Girls' 4x800 meter relay team - 3rd place (11:45.65) Avery Mcvicker - 1st in 100 meter dash (12.90), 1st in long jump (16-3.75), 1st in triple jump (34-2.25), 2nd in 200 meter dash (26.68) Bailey Robinson - 2nd in 1600 meter run (5:45.71) Claire Wenck - 3rd in high jump (4-7) Hunter Bennett - 2nd in javelin (142-4.25) James Jefferson - 4th in 110 meter hurdles (17.77) Jenna Clough - 2nd in discus (112-8) Natalie Garr - 1st in 800 meter run (2:28.19) Patrick Greer - 3rd in javelin (137')

Lafayette (Class 4)&nbsp; Boys' 4x100 meter relay team - 4th place (44.70) Carlos Cortez - 1st in 100 meter dash (11.59) Steevie Beasley - 4th in long jump (14-8.75), 4th in javelin (102-4)

Maryville (Class 3) Boys' 4x800 meter relay team - 1st place (8:32.89) Ashlyn Alexander - 1st in discus (128-7.75) Beau Gillespie - 1st in discus (141-11.5) Brooklynn Holtman - 1st in 400 meter dash (59.35), 1st place in high jump (4-9), 3rd in 100 meter dash (13.12), 4th in 200 meter dash (26.74) Cale Sterling - 4th in 800 meter run (2:07.28) Connor Blackford - 1st in 1600 meter run (4:42.29) Ella Schulte - 4th in 100 meter hurdles (17.89) Garrett Dumke - 1st in 3200 meter run (10:19.71), 2nd in 1600 meter run (4:46.89) Grace Ozanne - 3rd in triple jump (32-1.75) Gracie Wenger - 4th in shot put (32-0.25) Ilse Flores-Hernandez - 2nd in 100 meter hurdles (17.26), 4th in 300 meter hurdles (53.13), 4th in pole vault (8-0.5) Jag Galapin - 2nd in 3200 meter run (10:20.12) Jesus Flores-Hernandez - 2nd in high jump (5-10) Keaton Stone - 2nd in triple jump (40-7.75)

Savannah (Class 4) Ben Schneider - 1st in high jump (6-6) Danica Rodriguez - 2nd in high jump (5-1.75) Rhyan Schrick - 3rd in javelin (108-11)

St. Joseph Central (Class 5) Boys' 4x800 meter relay team - 4th place (8:33.02) Caleb Zweerink - 1st in boys' javelin (158-3) Damion Mujica - 1st in 3200 meter run (9:42.49) Makenzie Garr - 3rd in discus (119-4), 3rd in shot put (38-7.5) Raegan Cowman - 3rd in 3200 meter run (11:57.58) Zachary Parmer - 4th in long jump (20-3.75)

Class 3 state track is Saturday, May 29. Class 4 is May 28 and Class 5 is May 27 - all at Adkins Stadium in Jefferson City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618541889128.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostA handful of area track and field athletes in Classes 3-5 have qualified for sectional track meets next weekend.The top four placers in each district event qualified for sectionals, and the top four placers in sectionals will advance to the state track meet in Jefferson City the following weekend.Qualifying athletes in classes 3-4 will compete in sectionals at Odessa on Saturday, May 22. Class 5 athletes will compete in the sectional meet at Liberty North on the 22nd as well.Here's a list of the area athletes who have advanced to sectionals organized by school.Benton (Class 3) Boys' 4x100 meter relay team - 3rd place (45.55) Girls' 4x100 meter relay team - 3rd place (52.96) Caleb Addington - 1st in long jump (20-4), 3rd in triple jump (40-7.5) Devon Hoffmann - 3rd in 200 meter dash (23.70) Tatum Levendahl - 1st in 100 meter hurdles (17.18)Cameron (Class 3) Girls' 4x400 meter relay team - 2nd place (4:22.45) Girls' 4x800 meter relay team - 3rd place (11:45.65) Avery Mcvicker - 1st in 100 meter dash (12.90), 1st in long jump (16-3.75), 1st in triple jump (34-2.25), 2nd in 200 meter dash (26.68) Bailey Robinson - 2nd in 1600 meter run (5:45.71) Claire Wenck - 3rd in high jump (4-7) Hunter Bennett - 2nd in javelin (142-4.25) James Jefferson - 4th in 110 meter hurdles (17.77) Jenna Clough - 2nd in discus (112-8) Natalie Garr - 1st in 800 meter run (2:28.19) Patrick Greer - 3rd in javelin (137')Lafayette (Class 4)&nbsp; Boys' 4x100 meter relay team - 4th place (44.70) Carlos Cortez - 1st in 100 meter dash (11.59) Steevie Beasley - 4th in long jump (14-8.75), 4th in javelin (102-4)Maryville (Class 3) Boys' 4x800 meter relay team - 1st place (8:32.89) Ashlyn Alexander - 1st in discus (128-7.75) Beau Gillespie - 1st in discus (141-11.5) Brooklynn Holtman - 1st in 400 meter dash (59.35), 1st place in high jump (4-9), 3rd in 100 meter dash (13.12), 4th in 200 meter dash (26.74) Cale Sterling - 4th in 800 meter run (2:07.28) Connor Blackford - 1st in 1600 meter run (4:42.29) Ella Schulte - 4th in 100 meter hurdles (17.89) Garrett Dumke - 1st in 3200 meter run (10:19.71), 2nd in 1600 meter run (4:46.89) Grace Ozanne - 3rd in triple jump (32-1.75) Gracie Wenger - 4th in shot put (32-0.25) Ilse Flores-Hernandez - 2nd in 100 meter hurdles (17.26), 4th in 300 meter hurdles (53.13), 4th in pole vault (8-0.5) Jag Galapin - 2nd in 3200 meter run (10:20.12) Jesus Flores-Hernandez - 2nd in high jump (5-10) Keaton Stone - 2nd in triple jump (40-7.75)Savannah (Class 4) Ben Schneider - 1st in high jump (6-6) Danica Rodriguez - 2nd in high jump (5-1.75) Rhyan Schrick - 3rd in javelin (108-11)St. Joseph Central (Class 5) Boys' 4x800 meter relay team - 4th place (8:33.02) Caleb Zweerink - 1st in boys' javelin (158-3) Damion Mujica - 1st in 3200 meter run (9:42.49) Makenzie Garr - 3rd in discus (119-4), 3rd in shot put (38-7.5) Raegan Cowman - 3rd in 3200 meter run (11:57.58) Zachary Parmer - 4th in long jump (20-3.75)Class 3 state track is Saturday, May 29. Class 4 is May 28 and Class 5 is May 27 - all at Adkins Stadium in Jefferson City.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

Lafayette's Cortez, Central's Zweerink, Benton's Levendahl highlight area district champs in track

Athletes from area schools in Class 1 and 2 qualified for state track and field at the sectional meet in Higginsville Saturday.

The top four finishers in each event qualified for the MSHSAA Track and Field State Championships in Jefferson City this coming Friday and Saturday.

Here's a list of the area qualifiers, organized by school:

Bishop LeBlond (Class 1) Hayden Cross - 3rd in 200 meter dash (23.06), 3rd in 400 meter dash (52.01) Kaitlin Hudson - 4th in 3200 meter run (13:48.24) Elliot Murphy - 1st in 100 meter dash, 200 meter dash, shot put (para)

DeKalb (Class 1) Girls' 4x800 meter relay team - 3rd place (10:58.07) Carissa Martin - 1st in 200 meter dash (27.21), 1st in triple jump (33-7.25) Lainie Vogan - 4th in 100 meter hurdles (17.47), 3rd in triple jump (32-7)

East Atchison (Class 1) Girls' 4x400 meter relay team - 2nd place (4:19.75) Girls' 4x800 meter relay team - 1st place (10:28.21) Faith Anderson - 2nd in 300 meter hurdles (49.21), 2nd in high jump (5-3) Kaylin Merriweather - 3rd in 100 meter dash (11.48), 4th in high jump 5-10.5) Keena Merriweather - 2nd in 400 meter dash (1:02.54) Tommi Martin - 1st in 800 meter run (2:30.54)

East Buchanan (Class 2) Aidan Hensley - 3rd in 1600 meter run (4:41.30) Cru Conaway - 1st place in triple jump (41-5) Emma Klein - 1st place in long jump (16-10.75), 1st in triple jump (36-1.25)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618541889128.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAthletes from area schools in Class 1 and 2 qualified for state track and field at the sectional meet in Higginsville Saturday.The top four finishers in each event qualified for the MSHSAA Track and Field State Championships in Jefferson City this coming Friday and Saturday.Here's a list of the area qualifiers, organized by school:Bishop LeBlond (Class 1) Hayden Cross - 3rd in 200 meter dash (23.06), 3rd in 400 meter dash (52.01) Kaitlin Hudson - 4th in 3200 meter run (13:48.24) Elliot Murphy - 1st in 100 meter dash, 200 meter dash, shot put (para)DeKalb (Class 1) Girls' 4x800 meter relay team - 3rd place (10:58.07) Carissa Martin - 1st in 200 meter dash (27.21), 1st in triple jump (33-7.25) Lainie Vogan - 4th in 100 meter hurdles (17.47), 3rd in triple jump (32-7)East Atchison (Class 1) Girls' 4x400 meter relay team - 2nd place (4:19.75) Girls' 4x800 meter relay team - 1st place (10:28.21) Faith Anderson - 2nd in 300 meter hurdles (49.21), 2nd in high jump (5-3) Kaylin Merriweather - 3rd in 100 meter dash (11.48), 4th in high jump 5-10.5) Keena Merriweather - 2nd in 400 meter dash (1:02.54) Tommi Martin - 1st in 800 meter run (2:30.54)East Buchanan (Class 2) Aidan Hensley - 3rd in 1600 meter run (4:41.30) Cru Conaway - 1st place in triple jump (41-5) Emma Klein - 1st place in long jump (16-10.75), 1st in triple jump (36-1.25)King City (Class 1) Boys' 4x100 meter relay team - 1st place (44.64) Boys' 4x200 meter relay team - 2nd place (1:35.23) Landon Wells - 2nd in long jump (20-5.25) Madilyn Wall - 4th in 1600 meter run (5:58.42) Parker Muff - 3rd in long jump (20-3)Lathrop (Class 2) Annelise Kirkpatrick&nbsp; - 3rd in triple jump (33-2.5) Arissa Jackson - 1st place in pole vault (9-10), 1st in javelin (119') Avery Clay - 4th in shot put (33-1.25) Danial Keel - 4th in javelin (144-10) Dominic Faulkenberry - 1st in discus (132-10) Dylan Scanlan - 1st place in long jump (20-5.25) Josie Wright - 1st place in high jump (5-1) Matthew Miller - 2nd in 110 hurdles (17.08), 3rd in 300 hurdles (42.81) Autum Nichols - 2nd in discus (99-5)Maysville (Class 2) Ashley Brown - 1st in shot put (34-10.25), 4th in discus (87-10) Caden Israel - 2nd in pole vault (11-7) Claire Catlett - 4th place in triple jump (32-3.5) Kayden Gabbard - 4th place in long jump (19-4.25) Mirabella Redman - 2nd in pole vault (9-1.5) Rylie Boyer - 3rd in long jump (15-3.5)Mid-Buchanan (Class 2) Boys' 4x200 meter relay team - 2nd place (1:33.81) Boys' 4x400 meter relay team - 3rd place (3:36.34) Jordan Thornton - 2nd in 100 meter dash (12.95), 3rd in 200 meter dash (26.43) Kacie Livengood - 3rd in javelin (111-6) Lane Leader - 3rd in 100 meter dash (11.24) Reese McClurg - 3rd place in high jump (6-0), 4th place in triple jump (38-4.75)Mound City (Class 1) Boys' 4x200 meter relay team - 1st place (1:34.70) Boys' 4x400 meter relay team - 1st place (3:37.36) Boys' 4x800 meter relay team - 1st place (8:47.96) Tony Osburn - 1st in pole vault (10-6), 4th in triple jump (38-11) Landon Poppa - 1st in 100 meter dash (11.15), 1st in 200 meter dash (22.43) Wil Young - 4th in 400 meter dash (52.91) Keaton Zembles - 3rd in 800 meter run (2:08.50), 3rd in 3200 meter run (10:31.57)North Andrew (Class 1) Alaina Officer - 3rd in high hump (4-11.75) Emalee Pitmann - 3rd in 400 meter dash (1:02.78) Jaclyn Reidinger - 1st in 1600 meter run (5:55.27), 1st in 3200 meter run (12:39.56) Tanner Russo - 3rd in 110 meter hurdles (18.35), 4th in 300 meter hurdles (45.29)North Platte (Class 2) Girls' 4x100 meter relay team - 1st place (51.20) Girls' 4x200 meter relay team - 1st place (1:45.82) Girls' 4x400 meter relay team - 1st place (4:11.67) Girls' 4x800 meter relay team - 1st place (10:27.77) Gracie Ramsey - 3rd in 800 meter run (2:31.99) Haley Sampson - 2nd in 400 meter dash (1:00.95), 2nd in long jump (15-10.5) Madison O'Neill - 1st in 200 meter dash (25.83), 1st in 400 meter dash (1:00.16) Noah Heckman - 3rd in 3200 meter run (10:18.16) Trinity Wrightfield - 4th in 200 meter dash (26.51)Platte Valley (Class 1) Boys' 4x800 meter relay team - 4th place (8:57.49) Girls' 4x100 meter relay team - 1st place (53.11) Girls' 4x200 meter relay team - 1st place (1:53.35) Kayley Hauber - 2nd in 100 meter dash (13.27), 4th in 200 meter dash (27.59) Maggie Collins - 3rd in shot put (35-2) Malia Collins - 4th in long jump (14-7.25)Plattsburg (Class 2) Girls' 4x200 meter relay team - 4th place (1:54.13) Girls' 4x400 meter relay team - 4th place (4:28.24) Boys' 4x100 meter relay team - 4th place (45.77) Boys' 4x200 meter relay team - 4th place (1:35.58) Boys' 4x400 meter relay team - 1st place (3:32.69) Carson Stockdale - 2nd in 400 meter dash (51.92) Savannah Bingham - 3rd in discus (95-8) Terrance Smart - 3rd in shot put (42-7.50)South Holt (Class 2) Hayden Elifrits - 2nd in shot put (50-3.25) James Herr - 2nd place in javelin (158-2)Stanberry (Class 1) Boys' 4x800 meter relay team - 3rd place (8:52.26) Girls' 4x200 meter relay team - 4th place (1:56.32) Austin Colvin - 1st in discus (145-5), 1st in shot put (47-8.5) Katlyn James - 2nd in long jump (15-0.5), 2nd in pole vault (8-6) Lexi Craig - 1st in javelin (120-1) Peyton Hume - 4th in pole vault (9-0.25) Tyler Schwebach - 1st in 800 meter run (2:04.79)St. Joseph Christian (Class 1) Brooklyn Miller - 1st in 300 meter hurdles (48.46), 1st in high jump (5-3.75), 3rd in javelin (114) Landon Swavey - 1st in 400 meter dash (51.60), 2nd in 100 meter dash (11.46)Union Star (Class 1) Mara Mitchell - 2nd in 200 meter dash (27.37) Journey Lyons - 3rd in discus (101-3), 4th in javelin (111-8)West Platte (Class 2) Girls' 4x100 meter relay team - 2nd place (51.70) Girls' 4x200 meter relay team - 2nd place (1:51.75) Girls' 4x800 meter relay team - 3rd place (10:28.68) Boys' 4x800 meter relay team - 1st place (8:41.63) &nbsp;Charles Kinslow - 1st in 1600 meter run (4:39.91), 2nd in 800 meter run (2:05.13) Gretchen Raney - 4th in 100 meter dash (13.23) Julia Pattison - 3rd in 1600 meter run (5:40.97), 2nd in 3200 meter run (12:03.26) Laura Hill - 3rd in pole vault (8-8.25) Mikenna Peters - 1st in 100 meter dash (12.78), 1st in 100 meter hurdles (15.76), 1st in 300 meter hurdles (47.34) Quinn O'Malley - 1st in 100 meter dash (11.08), 4th in 200 meter dash (22.80), 2nd in long jump (19-10.25) Zayne Truxal - 3rd in 110 meter hurdles (17.38)Class 2 state track is Friday, May 21 while Class 1 competes on Saturday, May 22. State track will take place at Adkins Stadium at Jefferson City High School.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.