GRAND RAPIDS, MI. –&nbsp;The&nbsp;Omaha Supernovas&nbsp;earned their first road win in franchise history with a 21-25, 33-31, 30-28, 25-21 four-set victory over the Grand Rapids Rise Monday night at Van Andel Arena.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Omaha (2-2) survived 10 Grand Rapids (2-1) set points to come away with a victory to hand Interim Head Coach&nbsp;Laura “Bird” Kuhn&nbsp;her first career win in the Pro Volleyball Federation. Playing in front of a crowd of 4,060, the Supernovas got major contributions from setter&nbsp;Natalia Valentin-Anderson&nbsp;in her first league start. The Puerto Rico Olympian dished out 50 assists, 19 digs and four kills which included the set-ending spike in set two.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brooke Nuneviller&nbsp;led the Omaha attackers with 18 kills on a .240 clip that also included 10 digs and one ace.&nbsp;Jess Schaben-Lansman&nbsp;had another standout performance with 17 kills on a .260 hitting percentage and 15 digs. Outside hitter&nbsp;Bethania de la Cruz&nbsp;terminated eight balls with 12 digs, but she tortured the Rise from behind the service line with six aces which equals her own Pro Volleyball Federation record for most aces in a single match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Libero&nbsp;Kendall White&nbsp;recorded 18 digs with five assists while serving substitution&nbsp;Paige Briggs&nbsp;hammered two aces. Middle blocker&nbsp;Hristina Vuchkova&nbsp;finished with eight kills, three blocks and one ace in her Omaha debut.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former Louisville All-American Claire Chaussee had a match-high 19 kills to lead the Rise while opposite Emiliya Dimitrova totaled 16 and Simone Abbott finished with 15. Starting setter Ashley Evans handed out 43 assists while libero Sarah Sponcil finished with 23 digs.&nbsp;

Omaha hit .198 on the night with 12 blocks and 10 aces. Grand Rapids finished with a .201 hitting percentage, 13 blocks and three aces.&nbsp;&nbsp;

SET 1:&nbsp;The Supernovas shot out to a quick 3-1 behind the league-leading 11th ace of the season by de la Cruz as well as the first kill for Vuchkova in an Omaha uniform. The set escalated from there with Grand Rapids firing back with a 4-1 run to take a 9-6 lead. The Rise would hold an advantage for most of the set, eventually gaining a 19-15 edge with back-to-back kills from Symone and Kayla Caffey. However, Vuchkova found a groove from behind the service line, putting pressure on the Rise passers leading to a 4-0 run - including a Vuchkova ace - to pull within 22-21. After a Grand Rapids timeout, the Rise would close out the set with Marin Grote terminating a set-ending kill to make the final set score 25-21.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Grand Rapids offense rolled hitting .342 compared to Omaha’s .228. Nuneviller led the Supernovas with five kills while Abbott had a set-high six kills. Each team had two blocks with Omaha outpacing Grand Rapids in aces 2-0.&nbsp;

SET 2:&nbsp;In one of the most highly contested sets of the early season, Omaha and Grand Rapids exchanged blows throughout the entire set, not being separated by more than two points. The Supernovas grabbed the upper hand after a Briggs serving sub ace to go ahead 22-20. The Rise rallied behind an Omaha service error, a Scully Shannon ace and a Supernovas hitting error to retake the lead 23-22. After Nuneviller tied the set at 23 with a kill, each team exchanged points in the final stretch. Grand Rapids had five set points but couldn’t capitalize on any.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Following a Rise block to make it 31-30, Nuneviller came up clutch again with a kill to tie it at 31. De la Cruz followed up with a kill as Schaben-Lansman put the finishing touch on an endless second set with her fifth kill of the game to give Omaha a 33-31 set two win to tie the match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nuneviller recorded six of her 18 kills in that set while Omaha hit .180 with two blocks and three aces. Grand Rapids hit better at .191 with three blocks and two aces. Dimitrova led the way with eight kills in the set alone.&nbsp;&nbsp;

SET 3:&nbsp;The Supernovas set the tone in the third set following intermission, climbing out to an 8-2 lead thanks to serving runs from Valentín-Anderson and de la Cruz - who had two aces in that stretch. After a Rise timeout, Grand Rapids came back into the fold with a run of their own. Spearheaded by a front row that recorded four blocks, the Rise rallied off a 12-4 run to take the set lead at 14-12, which also included a pair of kills from former ACC Player of the Year Chaussee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Valentín-Anderson and Schaben-Lansman combined to become the catalyst for a 5-1 Omaha run. Schaben-Lansman came up with a solo block and back-to-back kills to hand the Supernovas the lead back at 17-15. A 6-1 run by Grand Rapids gave the Rise a 21-18 advantage, but another Briggs serving sub ace tied the match at 22. The two teams would split the next 11 points to make it 28-all, which also included four Chaussee kills.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Team captain Nuneviller stepped up when needed most, combining on a block with&nbsp;Tori Dixon&nbsp;to give Omaha set point which was followed by a Valentín-Anderson overpass kill to make the set final 30-28 and give the Supernovas a 2-1 match lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Schaben-Lansman recorded seven of her kills in that set with Nuneviller earning five. Omaha had five blocks to go along with three aces. Chaussee led the Rise with five kills while Grand Rapids totaled six blocks and one ace.&nbsp;&nbsp;

SET 4:&nbsp;Omaha earned an early edge at 6-4 but extended that lead to 10-4 with a Nuneviller service run that consisted of a Dixon kill, Nuneviller ace and Dixon coming together with de la Cruz for a block. A consistent theme of the night were the comebacks of the Rise as Grand Rapids rallied from a 13-6 deficit with runs of 4-1 and 7-1 to get within one point at 18-17.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The two teams would exchange rallies as a Grote kill got the Rise to 21-20. Schaben-Lansman slammed down a kill which was followed by a Rise hitting error to make it 23-20. Vuchkova recorded her last of three blocks with a solo stuff to make it match point. Dixon terminated her fourth kill on her sixth swing to give Omaha its first road win in franchise history to secure a 25-21 set-four victory.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Supernovas continue their road trip with their second matchup against the Vegas Thrill on Thursday, February 15 as the Thrill host their first-ever home match. First serve is set for 9 p.m. CST with all the action on the Supernovas Radio Network that can be found on flagship station 93.7 The Ticket, 95.7 The Boss (Omaha), KRVN (Lexington), KOLT (Scottsbluff) and KTOC (West Point).&nbsp;&nbsp;

How it feels to beat Cathy George in her first career Pro Volleyball Federation win:&nbsp;"It was a fun match. We always joke that I think all of us coaches have known each other forever. It's very cool to be able to coach against someone that I've looked up to in my career and just such a legend here. I think this league is so special for so many reasons. The athletes are getting to compete at such a high level, but for us coaches, it's fun to coach a group like this. They're hungry to compete, and they know each other, so it's just like us coaches. That environment tonight and the way they were competing against each other, that was probably one of my favorite matches I've coached."&nbsp;&nbsp;

How Omaha continues its momentum:&nbsp;"I've said this. Our team has resilience but the way they fought back and the character they showed in those moments where we fought off set points that's a gut check for any team. To see them compete and even the Grand Rapids Rise, they were fighting too. Those were earned points and we have talked about that all the time in the gym. It's the way you earn points. To me, that's how you build character and how you build trust in each other. I'm proud of this team and how they fought, and we continue our road trip."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Natalia Valentin-Anderson Quotes&nbsp;

How it feels to play a four-set match that felt like a marathon:&nbsp;"I'm definitely feeling happy. I'm not going to say tired because we just got the win, and the time doesn't matter how long or how short it was. I thought it was a great game overall."&nbsp;

If she's looking forward to playing the Rise again:&nbsp;"For sure. Definitely. Any team that's across the net it's just an opportunity to compete and get better. They're a great team. If the level continues to rise in the league, it's amazing for any team and the future of this league."

Story by Supernovas CommunicationGRAND RAPIDS, MI. –&nbsp;The&nbsp;Omaha Supernovas&nbsp;earned their first road win in franchise history with a 21-25, 33-31, 30-28, 25-21 four-set victory over the Grand Rapids Rise Monday night at Van Andel Arena.&nbsp;&nbsp;Omaha (2-2) survived 10 Grand Rapids (2-1) set points to come away with a victory to hand Interim Head Coach&nbsp;Laura “Bird” Kuhn&nbsp;her first career win in the Pro Volleyball Federation. Playing in front of a crowd of 4,060, the Supernovas got major contributions from setter&nbsp;Natalia Valentin-Anderson&nbsp;in her first league start. The Puerto Rico Olympian dished out 50 assists, 19 digs and four kills which included the set-ending spike in set two.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brooke Nuneviller&nbsp;led the Omaha attackers with 18 kills on a .240 clip that also included 10 digs and one ace.&nbsp;Jess Schaben-Lansman&nbsp;had another standout performance with 17 kills on a .260 hitting percentage and 15 digs. Outside hitter&nbsp;Bethania de la Cruz&nbsp;terminated eight balls with 12 digs, but she tortured the Rise from behind the service line with six aces which equals her own Pro Volleyball Federation record for most aces in a single match.&nbsp;&nbsp;Libero&nbsp;Kendall White&nbsp;recorded 18 digs with five assists while serving substitution&nbsp;Paige Briggs&nbsp;hammered two aces. Middle blocker&nbsp;Hristina Vuchkova&nbsp;finished with eight kills, three blocks and one ace in her Omaha debut.&nbsp;&nbsp;Former Louisville All-American Claire Chaussee had a match-high 19 kills to lead the Rise while opposite Emiliya Dimitrova totaled 16 and Simone Abbott finished with 15. Starting setter Ashley Evans handed out 43 assists while libero Sarah Sponcil finished with 23 digs.&nbsp;Omaha hit .198 on the night with 12 blocks and 10 aces. Grand Rapids finished with a .201 hitting percentage, 13 blocks and three aces.&nbsp;&nbsp;SET 1:&nbsp;The Supernovas shot out to a quick 3-1 behind the league-leading 11th ace of the season by de la Cruz as well as the first kill for Vuchkova in an Omaha uniform. The set escalated from there with Grand Rapids firing back with a 4-1 run to take a 9-6 lead. The Rise would hold an advantage for most of the set, eventually gaining a 19-15 edge with back-to-back kills from Symone and Kayla Caffey. However, Vuchkova found a groove from behind the service line, putting pressure on the Rise passers leading to a 4-0 run - including a Vuchkova ace - to pull within 22-21. After a Grand Rapids timeout, the Rise would close out the set with Marin Grote terminating a set-ending kill to make the final set score 25-21.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Grand Rapids offense rolled hitting .342 compared to Omaha’s .228. Nuneviller led the Supernovas with five kills while Abbott had a set-high six kills. Each team had two blocks with Omaha outpacing Grand Rapids in aces 2-0.&nbsp;SET 2:&nbsp;In one of the most highly contested sets of the early season, Omaha and Grand Rapids exchanged blows throughout the entire set, not being separated by more than two points. The Supernovas grabbed the upper hand after a Briggs serving sub ace to go ahead 22-20. The Rise rallied behind an Omaha service error, a Scully Shannon ace and a Supernovas hitting error to retake the lead 23-22. After Nuneviller tied the set at 23 with a kill, each team exchanged points in the final stretch. Grand Rapids had five set points but couldn’t capitalize on any.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following a Rise block to make it 31-30, Nuneviller came up clutch again with a kill to tie it at 31. De la Cruz followed up with a kill as Schaben-Lansman put the finishing touch on an endless second set with her fifth kill of the game to give Omaha a 33-31 set two win to tie the match.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nuneviller recorded six of her 18 kills in that set while Omaha hit .180 with two blocks and three aces. Grand Rapids hit better at .191 with three blocks and two aces. Dimitrova led the way with eight kills in the set alone.&nbsp;&nbsp;SET 3:&nbsp;The Supernovas set the tone in the third set following intermission, climbing out to an 8-2 lead thanks to serving runs from Valentín-Anderson and de la Cruz - who had two aces in that stretch. After a Rise timeout, Grand Rapids came back into the fold with a run of their own. Spearheaded by a front row that recorded four blocks, the Rise rallied off a 12-4 run to take the set lead at 14-12, which also included a pair of kills from former ACC Player of the Year Chaussee.&nbsp;&nbsp;Valentín-Anderson and Schaben-Lansman combined to become the catalyst for a 5-1 Omaha run. Schaben-Lansman came up with a solo block and back-to-back kills to hand the Supernovas the lead back at 17-15. A 6-1 run by Grand Rapids gave the Rise a 21-18 advantage, but another Briggs serving sub ace tied the match at 22. The two teams would split the next 11 points to make it 28-all, which also included four Chaussee kills.&nbsp;&nbsp;Team captain Nuneviller stepped up when needed most, combining on a block with&nbsp;Tori Dixon&nbsp;to give Omaha set point which was followed by a Valentín-Anderson overpass kill to make the set final 30-28 and give the Supernovas a 2-1 match lead.&nbsp;&nbsp;Schaben-Lansman recorded seven of her kills in that set with Nuneviller earning five. Omaha had five blocks to go along with three aces. Chaussee led the Rise with five kills while Grand Rapids totaled six blocks and one ace.&nbsp;&nbsp;SET 4:&nbsp;Omaha earned an early edge at 6-4 but extended that lead to 10-4 with a Nuneviller service run that consisted of a Dixon kill, Nuneviller ace and Dixon coming together with de la Cruz for a block. A consistent theme of the night were the comebacks of the Rise as Grand Rapids rallied from a 13-6 deficit with runs of 4-1 and 7-1 to get within one point at 18-17.&nbsp;&nbsp;The two teams would exchange rallies as a Grote kill got the Rise to 21-20. Schaben-Lansman slammed down a kill which was followed by a Rise hitting error to make it 23-20. Vuchkova recorded her last of three blocks with a solo stuff to make it match point. Dixon terminated her fourth kill on her sixth swing to give Omaha its first road win in franchise history to secure a 25-21 set-four victory.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Supernovas continue their road trip with their second matchup against the Vegas Thrill on Thursday, February 15 as the Thrill host their first-ever home match. First serve is set for 9 p.m. CST with all the action on the Supernovas Radio Network that can be found on flagship station 93.7 The Ticket, 95.7 The Boss (Omaha), KRVN (Lexington), KOLT (Scottsbluff) and KTOC (West Point).&nbsp;&nbsp;Laura "Bird" Kuhn Quotes:&nbsp;How it feels to beat Cathy George in her first career Pro Volleyball Federation win:&nbsp;"It was a fun match. We always joke that I think all of us coaches have known each other forever. It's very cool to be able to coach against someone that I've looked up to in my career and just such a legend here. I think this league is so special for so many reasons. The athletes are getting to compete at such a high level, but for us coaches, it's fun to coach a group like this. They're hungry to compete, and they know each other, so it's just like us coaches. That environment tonight and the way they were competing against each other, that was probably one of my favorite matches I've coached."&nbsp;&nbsp;How Omaha continues its momentum:&nbsp;"I've said this. Our team has resilience but the way they fought back and the character they showed in those moments where we fought off set points that's a gut check for any team. To see them compete and even the Grand Rapids Rise, they were fighting too. Those were earned points and we have talked about that all the time in the gym. It's the way you earn points. To me, that's how you build character and how you build trust in each other. I'm proud of this team and how they fought, and we continue our road trip."&nbsp;&nbsp;Natalia Valentin-Anderson Quotes&nbsp;How it feels to play a four-set match that felt like a marathon:&nbsp;"I'm definitely feeling happy. I'm not going to say tired because we just got the win, and the time doesn't matter how long or how short it was. I thought it was a great game overall."&nbsp;If she's looking forward to playing the Rise again:&nbsp;"For sure. Definitely. Any team that's across the net it's just an opportunity to compete and get better. They're a great team. If the level continues to rise in the league, it's amazing for any team and the future of this league."

Supernovas upend Rise in four-set marathon 

Area Wrestling District results/State Qualifications 

GRAND ISLAND, NEB. - The best Nebraska boys basketball showcase is upon us as the Ogallala Indians (20-1, #7 C-1) will battle with the Crete Cardinals (19-0, #1 B) this afternoon in the Heartland Event Center in Grand Island.

Listen along with Canon Rath on Flatrock 100.7. Kwik Stop Pregame coverage is set to begin 1:20pm MT/2:20pm CT with tip off scheduled for 1:30pm MT/2:30pm CT. Listen on Flatrock 100.7 or online by <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">clicking here.</a>

Sandhills PostGRAND ISLAND, NEB. - The best Nebraska boys basketball showcase is upon us as the Ogallala Indians (20-1, #7 C-1) will battle with the Crete Cardinals (19-0, #1 B) this afternoon in the Heartland Event Center in Grand Island.Listen along with Canon Rath on Flatrock 100.7. Kwik Stop Pregame coverage is set to begin 1:20pm MT/2:20pm CT with tip off scheduled for 1:30pm MT/2:30pm CT. Listen on Flatrock 100.7 or online by <a href="https://flatrock1007.com/">clicking here.</a>

2024 Heartland Hoops Classic Radio Coverage: Ogallala vs Crete

High School Basketball - Scottsbluff High School @ North Platte High School

The NSAA released the Girls Basketball sub-district brackets this week; among the favorites from the area this year will be Gothenburg girls team, (16-5) on the year in class C1. The Swedes will host either Chase County or Cozad on Tuesday, February 13. On the other side of that C1-11 sub-district sit's Ogallala (11-9) and Hershey (13-8). Flatrock 100.7 will carry the Ogallala/Hershey game on Tuesday. Maywood-Hayes Center &amp; Paxton are also #1 seeds from the area.&nbsp;

Here are the other brackets featuring teams from our POST area.

The NSAA released the Girls Basketball sub-district brackets this week; among the favorites from the area this year will be Gothenburg girls team, (16-5) on the year in class C1. The Swedes will host either Chase County or Cozad on Tuesday, February 13. On the other side of that C1-11 sub-district sit's Ogallala (11-9) and Hershey (13-8). Flatrock 100.7 will carry the Ogallala/Hershey game on Tuesday. Maywood-Hayes Center &amp; Paxton are also #1 seeds from the area.&nbsp;Here are the other brackets featuring teams from our POST area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707497481979.png" alt="C2 10" />
 <figcaption>C2 10</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707497082183.png" alt="Girls C2 12" />
 <figcaption>Girls C2 12</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707497104734.png" alt="Girls D1 11" />
 <figcaption>Girls D1 11</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707497130334.png" alt="Girls D1 12" />
 <figcaption>Girls D1 12</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707497151846.png" alt="Girls D2 9" />
 <figcaption>Girls D2 9</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707497212205.png" alt="Girls D2 10" />
 <figcaption>Girls D2 10</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707497184565.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Nebraska Girls Sub-District brackets released: Tournaments begin Monday

The Mid-Plains Community College Rodeo Team will host its annual spring fundraiser rodeo in McCook March 8-9.

Performances are open to the public. They will begin at 7 p.m. each night at the Kiplinger Arena at the Red Willow County Fairgrounds. Slack is scheduled for noon March 8 and at 10 a.m. March 9.

Admission for the regular performances is $10 per person with the exception of children 12 and younger – who will be admitted free.

Concessions and team merchandise will be for sale both days. Proceeds will go toward a combination of scholarships, practice equipment and travel expenses for rodeo team members.

The fundraiser is sanctioned by the Kansas Pro Rodeo Association and the Nebraska State Rodeo Association. It is sponsored in part by a grant from Red Willow County Tourism.

Phillips Rodeo Company is the stock contractor.

Entries can be submitted online at&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasprorodeo.com/" target="_blank">kansasprorodeo.com</a>&nbsp;beginning March 1. They can be called in March 3 to (620) 275-1655 or (620) 260-9845.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707409625951.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Heather JohnsonMPCCThe Mid-Plains Community College Rodeo Team will host its annual spring fundraiser rodeo in McCook March 8-9.Performances are open to the public. They will begin at 7 p.m. each night at the Kiplinger Arena at the Red Willow County Fairgrounds. Slack is scheduled for noon March 8 and at 10 a.m. March 9.Admission for the regular performances is $10 per person with the exception of children 12 and younger – who will be admitted free.Concessions and team merchandise will be for sale both days. Proceeds will go toward a combination of scholarships, practice equipment and travel expenses for rodeo team members.The fundraiser is sanctioned by the Kansas Pro Rodeo Association and the Nebraska State Rodeo Association. It is sponsored in part by a grant from Red Willow County Tourism.Phillips Rodeo Company is the stock contractor.Entries can be submitted online at&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasprorodeo.com/" target="_blank">kansasprorodeo.com</a>&nbsp;beginning March 1. They can be called in March 3 to (620) 275-1655 or (620) 260-9845.

MPCC Rodeo Team spring fundraiser rodeo will be March 8-9

OMAHA, Neb. –&nbsp;Supernovas rookie sensation&nbsp;Paige Briggs&nbsp;exploded for 14 kills and 19 digs in her first career professional start, but Omaha fell to the Vegas Thrill in a five-set thriller 25-19, 23-25, 20-25, 25-18, 12-15 Wednesday at the CHI Health Center.&nbsp;

Two-time Olympian&nbsp;Bethania de la Cruz&nbsp;posted an impressive six aces on the match and sparked numerous service runs for the Supernovas. De la Cruz now has a league-leading 10 aces on the season. She also notched 13 kills, with a .273 hitting percentage. Iowa native&nbsp;Jess Schaben-Lansman&nbsp;added 15 kills, but was also a force at the net with a team-leading four blocks. The Supernovas had 10 total blocks.&nbsp;

Omaha setter&nbsp;Sydney Hilley&nbsp;dished out 40 assists on the night along with a team-high 20 digs. The Supernovas hit .188 in the match with eight aces and 90 total digs.

Thrill middle blocker Molly McCage accounted for eight of the Thrill’s 15 blocks. She contributed offensively as well with 14 kills and a .375 hitting percentage. Hannah Maddux led Vegas with 18 kills and added three blocks.

Vegas setter Alisha Glass Childress completed a double-double with 46 assists and 16 digs. Thrill libero Kylie Murr led the defensive effort with a match-high 28 digs.&nbsp;

Set 1:&nbsp;After a back-and-forth opening set, Hilley pulled the Supernovas’ lead to 9-6 with a block. Omaha middle blocker&nbsp;Danielle Hart&nbsp;added a block of her own after a long rally to bring the score to 15-11. Briggs tallied the final three kills for the Supernovas to secure a 25-19 first-set win. The outside hitter from Ortonville, Mich. led the Supernovas with six kills and posted a .666 hitting percentage. The Supernovas out blocked the Thrill 5-2.

Set 2:&nbsp;Briggs continued her career night with her seventh kill of the match to get the Supernovas off to a 3-1 start. The Thrill forced an Omaha timeout at 15-17 after three consecutive points. A block and a kill by Schaben-Lansman evened the score at 18-18. The Thrill’s McCage contributed three kills to force an Omaha timeout at 23-21. The Thrill ended the set 25-23 off of McCage’s eighth kill of the match.&nbsp;

Set 3:&nbsp;After trailing early in the set, a 6-0 run sparked by a de la Cruz serving clinic forced a Thrill timeout at 12-8. De la Cruz dialed up three aces on the service run for the Supernovas. The Thrill mounted momentum of their own behind Saskia Hippe to force a Supernovas timeout at 17-16. Omaha opposite&nbsp;Nia Reed&nbsp;ended the run with a kill off the block. The Thrill took the 21-18 lead after a trio of Supernovas errors. McCage posted her fourth block of the match to get the Thrill to set point, and Maddux finished the set at 25-20 with a kill. Maddux led the Thrill with five kills and a .417 hitting percentage. McCage added three kills.

Set 4:&nbsp;De la Cruz served up back-to-back aces to give the Supernovas an early 7-3 lead. Briggs found the floor on a crafty second-ball kill to extend the Omaha lead. A 4-0 service run by Layne Van Buskirk forced a Supernovas timeout at 19-13. Up against set point, the Thrill committed a service error to give the Supernovas a 25-18 set win. De la Cruz totaled five kills on the set. Briggs and Schaben-Lansman each added three.

Set 5:&nbsp;Schaben-Lansman tallied her 13th kill of the match to put the Supernovas up 5-1. A block and a kill by McCage cut the lead to 8-7. A Maddux kill gave the Thrill their first lead of the set at 9-8. Another Maddux kill extended the Trill lead to 13-10. De La Cruz answered with her 13th kill of the match. An Omaha error brought the Thrill to match point and Hippe ended the match 15-12.

The Supernovas hit the road for their first away match of the season. They will face off with the Grand Rapids Rise at 6 p.m. (CT) at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Mich.

Geoff ExstromOmaha SupernovasOMAHA, Neb. –&nbsp;Supernovas rookie sensation&nbsp;Paige Briggs&nbsp;exploded for 14 kills and 19 digs in her first career professional start, but Omaha fell to the Vegas Thrill in a five-set thriller 25-19, 23-25, 20-25, 25-18, 12-15 Wednesday at the CHI Health Center.&nbsp;Two-time Olympian&nbsp;Bethania de la Cruz&nbsp;posted an impressive six aces on the match and sparked numerous service runs for the Supernovas. De la Cruz now has a league-leading 10 aces on the season. She also notched 13 kills, with a .273 hitting percentage. Iowa native&nbsp;Jess Schaben-Lansman&nbsp;added 15 kills, but was also a force at the net with a team-leading four blocks. The Supernovas had 10 total blocks.&nbsp;Omaha setter&nbsp;Sydney Hilley&nbsp;dished out 40 assists on the night along with a team-high 20 digs. The Supernovas hit .188 in the match with eight aces and 90 total digs.Thrill middle blocker Molly McCage accounted for eight of the Thrill’s 15 blocks. She contributed offensively as well with 14 kills and a .375 hitting percentage. Hannah Maddux led Vegas with 18 kills and added three blocks.Vegas setter Alisha Glass Childress completed a double-double with 46 assists and 16 digs. Thrill libero Kylie Murr led the defensive effort with a match-high 28 digs.&nbsp;Set 1:&nbsp;After a back-and-forth opening set, Hilley pulled the Supernovas’ lead to 9-6 with a block. Omaha middle blocker&nbsp;Danielle Hart&nbsp;added a block of her own after a long rally to bring the score to 15-11. Briggs tallied the final three kills for the Supernovas to secure a 25-19 first-set win. The outside hitter from Ortonville, Mich. led the Supernovas with six kills and posted a .666 hitting percentage. The Supernovas out blocked the Thrill 5-2.Set 2:&nbsp;Briggs continued her career night with her seventh kill of the match to get the Supernovas off to a 3-1 start. The Thrill forced an Omaha timeout at 15-17 after three consecutive points. A block and a kill by Schaben-Lansman evened the score at 18-18. The Thrill’s McCage contributed three kills to force an Omaha timeout at 23-21. The Thrill ended the set 25-23 off of McCage’s eighth kill of the match.&nbsp;Set 3:&nbsp;After trailing early in the set, a 6-0 run sparked by a de la Cruz serving clinic forced a Thrill timeout at 12-8. De la Cruz dialed up three aces on the service run for the Supernovas. The Thrill mounted momentum of their own behind Saskia Hippe to force a Supernovas timeout at 17-16. Omaha opposite&nbsp;Nia Reed&nbsp;ended the run with a kill off the block. The Thrill took the 21-18 lead after a trio of Supernovas errors. McCage posted her fourth block of the match to get the Thrill to set point, and Maddux finished the set at 25-20 with a kill. Maddux led the Thrill with five kills and a .417 hitting percentage. McCage added three kills.Set 4:&nbsp;De la Cruz served up back-to-back aces to give the Supernovas an early 7-3 lead. Briggs found the floor on a crafty second-ball kill to extend the Omaha lead. A 4-0 service run by Layne Van Buskirk forced a Supernovas timeout at 19-13. Up against set point, the Thrill committed a service error to give the Supernovas a 25-18 set win. De la Cruz totaled five kills on the set. Briggs and Schaben-Lansman each added three.Set 5:&nbsp;Schaben-Lansman tallied her 13th kill of the match to put the Supernovas up 5-1. A block and a kill by McCage cut the lead to 8-7. A Maddux kill gave the Thrill their first lead of the set at 9-8. Another Maddux kill extended the Trill lead to 13-10. De La Cruz answered with her 13th kill of the match. An Omaha error brought the Thrill to match point and Hippe ended the match 15-12.The Supernovas hit the road for their first away match of the season. They will face off with the Grand Rapids Rise at 6 p.m. (CT) at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids, Mich.

Paige Briggs Explodes in First Career Start as Omaha Falls to Vegas in Five-Set Thriller 

OGALLALA, NEB. - Family, friends, classmates, community members were all in attendance at the Ogallala High School Performing Arts Center to watch Ogallala Senior Harry Caskey to sign his national letter of intent to continue his football and academic career at Air Force.&nbsp;

Caskey, who was recruited as an athlete, will be playing outside linebacker for the Falcons. He committed to Air Force on September 8th, 2023, before the Cozad game. During his senior season, Caskey was a dominate force on both sides of the ball. 

Offensively, he would finish with 1,132 rushing yards while finding the endzone twelve times. He joined fellow senior Caden Rezac with over 1,000 rushing yards on the season. Defensively, Caskey led the team with 72 total tackles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brown, South Dakota, Dartmouth, Northwest Missouri State are just a few schools who offered scholarships. Caskey, who recently had hand surgery, is out for the basketball season but will be healed and ready to go by June.&nbsp;

Harry Caskey announces he will be signing with Air Force.

Harry Caskey talks with media about his decision to commit to Air Force.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707349740549.jpeg" alt="Harry Caskey, family, and Ogallala football head coach Brent Bauer. (Photo taken by Canon Rath/Sandhills Post)" />
 <figcaption>Harry Caskey, family, and Ogallala football head coach Brent Bauer. (Photo taken by Canon Rath/Sandhills Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>Sandhills Post&nbsp;OGALLALA, NEB. - Family, friends, classmates, community members were all in attendance at the Ogallala High School Performing Arts Center to watch Ogallala Senior Harry Caskey to sign his national letter of intent to continue his football and academic career at Air Force.&nbsp;Caskey, who was recruited as an athlete, will be playing outside linebacker for the Falcons. He committed to Air Force on September 8th, 2023, before the Cozad game. During his senior season, Caskey was a dominate force on both sides of the ball. Offensively, he would finish with 1,132 rushing yards while finding the endzone twelve times. He joined fellow senior Caden Rezac with over 1,000 rushing yards on the season. Defensively, Caskey led the team with 72 total tackles.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brown, South Dakota, Dartmouth, Northwest Missouri State are just a few schools who offered scholarships. Caskey, who recently had hand surgery, is out for the basketball season but will be healed and ready to go by June.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uTLLTOH5bho?si=U-PIp7QUEEPCY27L" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Harry Caskey announces he will be signing with Air Force.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/c4YU1gGd-k0?si=TkWChGcl9Vkeoq8d" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Harry Caskey talks with media about his decision to commit to Air Force.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Signed. <a href="https://twitter.com/AF_Football?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AF_Football</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AF_FBRecruiting?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AF_FBRecruiting</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachTCalhoun?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachTCalhoun</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachWhit_AFA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachWhit_AFA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachAlexMeans?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachAlexMeans</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachKPearsonAF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachKPearsonAF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OGIndians?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OGIndians</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OgallalaFB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OgallalaFB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KNOPNews2?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KNOPNews2</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkoJerkovicTV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MarkoJerkovicTV</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NEBHSFB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NEBHSFB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Falcon8fan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Falcon8fan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BrentBriggeman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrentBriggeman</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AllenTrieu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AllenTrieu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/mikejschaefer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mikejschaefer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ParkerThune?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ParkerThune</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GregSmithRivals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GregSmithRivals</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BryanMunson_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BryanMunson_</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Sean_Callahan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sean_Callahan</a> ⚡️ <a href="https://t.co/FbViEntV2I">pic.twitter.com/FbViEntV2I</a>&mdash; Harry Caskey (@Harry7Caskey) <a href="https://twitter.com/Harry7Caskey/status/1755369344874209394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Ogallala Senior Harry Caskey signs with Air Force to continue academic and football career

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Nebraska Kearney head football coach&nbsp;Ryan Held&nbsp;announced that&nbsp;Tyler Harris&nbsp;is the Lopers new wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator. He replaces Moses Harper who was named head coach at Division II Lincoln (Mo.) University last month.&nbsp;

Harris, a native of Andover, Kan., is no stranger to the MIAA as he spent the last seven years at Emporia State as a player, graduate assistant coach, assistant coach and recruiting coordinator.

&nbsp; Beginning his playing career at Hutchinson (Kan.) C.C., Harris was an All-MIAA receiver in 2018 before transitioning to a GA role where he led the Hornet outside receivers for two years. He then was tabbed for a full-time role prior to the 2021 season, serving as receivers coach/recruiting coordinator. His recruiting territory was Southwestern Kansas, Wichita, Kansas junior colleges, Oklahoma City, and the Dallas Metroplex.

"I'm very excited to have Tyler and his wife, Kailey, join the UNK Football Family. Tyler is a very talented coach that has had a proven track record of developing wide receivers," said Held. "He understands the MIAA Conference and he will help us elevate on offense as we go into our second year as a staff. &nbsp;We fired up for him to be a Loper!"

&nbsp; Harris was an integral part of the Hornets quick and potent passing attack as he coached standout receivers Jaylen Varner, Tyler Kahmann, Corey Thomas and Cole Schumacher, among others. Each earned All-MIAA honors in their career with Varner, Kahmann and Thomas being first-team selections. In 2023 Varner and Thomas both went over 1,000 receiving yards and combined for 32 receiving touchdowns. Varner has since transferred to Minnesota with Kahmann earning Academic All-American honors.

Emporia is coming off back-to-back 9-3 seasons and has made three straight bowl games. As a player, Harris helped the Hornets win the 2018 Corsicana (Texas) Bowl. He finished the year with 57 catches for 829 yards and a MIAA-best 14 receiving TD's.

Harris graduated from Andover Central High School and received a Marketing degree from Emporia State in 2018.

UNK announced its Class of 2024 as part of Division II signing day. Spring practice starts at the end of March; a complete workout schedule is TBA.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707402697218.jpeg" alt="Tyler Harris (Photo from UNK Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Tyler Harris (Photo from UNK Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;Nebraska Kearney head football coach&nbsp;Ryan Held&nbsp;announced that&nbsp;Tyler Harris&nbsp;is the Lopers new wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator. He replaces Moses Harper who was named head coach at Division II Lincoln (Mo.) University last month.&nbsp;Harris, a native of Andover, Kan., is no stranger to the MIAA as he spent the last seven years at Emporia State as a player, graduate assistant coach, assistant coach and recruiting coordinator.&nbsp; Beginning his playing career at Hutchinson (Kan.) C.C., Harris was an All-MIAA receiver in 2018 before transitioning to a GA role where he led the Hornet outside receivers for two years. He then was tabbed for a full-time role prior to the 2021 season, serving as receivers coach/recruiting coordinator. His recruiting territory was Southwestern Kansas, Wichita, Kansas junior colleges, Oklahoma City, and the Dallas Metroplex."I'm very excited to have Tyler and his wife, Kailey, join the UNK Football Family. Tyler is a very talented coach that has had a proven track record of developing wide receivers," said Held. "He understands the MIAA Conference and he will help us elevate on offense as we go into our second year as a staff. &nbsp;We fired up for him to be a Loper!"&nbsp; Harris was an integral part of the Hornets quick and potent passing attack as he coached standout receivers Jaylen Varner, Tyler Kahmann, Corey Thomas and Cole Schumacher, among others. Each earned All-MIAA honors in their career with Varner, Kahmann and Thomas being first-team selections. In 2023 Varner and Thomas both went over 1,000 receiving yards and combined for 32 receiving touchdowns. Varner has since transferred to Minnesota with Kahmann earning Academic All-American honors.Emporia is coming off back-to-back 9-3 seasons and has made three straight bowl games. As a player, Harris helped the Hornets win the 2018 Corsicana (Texas) Bowl. He finished the year with 57 catches for 829 yards and a MIAA-best 14 receiving TD's.Harris graduated from Andover Central High School and received a Marketing degree from Emporia State in 2018.UNK announced its Class of 2024 as part of Division II signing day. Spring practice starts at the end of March; a complete workout schedule is TBA.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tyler Harris announced as Lopers new wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator

A Nebraska softball program that hasn't won a conference championship in 10 years enters this spring believing it can win a national championship.

A program that couldn't fill its stadium to even half of capacity last year is rushing to add seats and still won't be able to meet ticket demand.

A program that hasn't appeared in the preseason Top 25 since 2015 shows up in all four major polls, between Nos. 13-18, and is the highest-ranked in the Big Ten.

“I know there’s a lot of excitement; that’s not lost on us,” coach Rhonda Revelle said. “I mean, you can’t lie. We’re at practice, there’s construction going on, and they’re trying to accommodate more fans, so it’s not like it’s invisible to us.”

The Cornhuskers bring back all the top players from the 36-22 team that made an NCAA regional for a second straight year. But make no mistake: their sudden popularity is attributable to Bahl.

The two-time All-America pitcher shocked the college softball world last June when, a week after she led Oklahoma to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-softball-oklahoma-florida-state-b9075d910505fdc6d4ddd11c35996972">third straight national championship</a>&nbsp;and was named Most Outstanding Player in the Women’s College World Series, she announced she would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nebraska-oklahoma-softball-jordy-bahl-e3a8f46d4a53f0c2f1af539a4f2652bc">transfer to her home-state school.</a>

Bahl grew up in the Omaha suburb of Papillion and strongly considered going to Nebraska out of high school before picking the powerhouse Sooners. She went 44-2, won two national titles and was Big 12 pitcher of the year and a first-team All-American each year.

She cited homesickness and a desire to help grow the sport in the state of Nebraska when she announced her decision to leave OU after two years.

Bahl demurred when asked how she handles being in the spotlight in Lincoln.

“I don’t think I’ve ever looked at it that way,” she said. "It’s just our team, and we show up and we go to work every day, and that’s just how it is.”

In the days following her transfer, Nebraska received requests for more than 2,000 new season tickets. The Huskers, who averaged 1,000 fans per game at 2,530-seat Bowlin Stadium last season, immediately made plans to get capacity over 3,000 before the March 1 home opener.

“I think it makes us excited because it just shows how our game is growing, and it’s an awesome feeling to just know that the people of Nebraska are excited to come and watch softball," Bahl said. “And we’re all working really hard to try to make it a fun show to watch.”

Bahl has had no difficulty fitting in. There are six other native Nebraskans on the roster, she was a club teammate with standout shortstop Billie Andrews and knows other players from summer ball.

“She’s a great person off the field, and I think that just bleeds into who she is on the field,” Andrews said. “And we know when we go out there and play, we’ve got her back and she’s got ours. She’s a great addition to this team.”

The Huskers open at a tournament in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, on Thursday against Washington, which is ranked as high as No. 7. The pitching matchup could pit Bahl against a fellow Nebraskan in Ruby Meylan, a preseason second-team All-American from Omaha.

The Huskers will play another nationally ranked team in Duke on Friday, and they have nonconference games later this month against Top 25 opponents and future Big Ten members UCLA and Oregon.

It's a schedule designed to prepare the Huskers for conference play and beyond.

“Our goal," Bahl said, “is to be the last team standing."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707320241428.jpeg" alt="ebraska'Ns Jordy Bahl throws during softball practice Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, at Bowlin Stadium in Lincoln, Neb. A Nebraska softball program that hasn't won a conference championship in 10 years enters this spring believing it can win a national championship. Call it the “Jordy Bahl Effect.” (Nikos Frazier/Omaha World-Herald via AP)" />
 <figcaption>ebraska'Ns Jordy Bahl throws during softball practice Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, at Bowlin Stadium in Lincoln, Neb. A Nebraska softball program that hasn't won a conference championship in 10 years enters this spring believing it can win a national championship. Call it the “Jordy Bahl Effect.” (Nikos Frazier/Omaha World-Herald via AP)</figcaption>
 </figure>Eric OlsonAssociated&nbsp;PressCall it the “Jordy Bahl Effect.”A Nebraska softball program that hasn't won a conference championship in 10 years enters this spring believing it can win a national championship.A program that couldn't fill its stadium to even half of capacity last year is rushing to add seats and still won't be able to meet ticket demand.A program that hasn't appeared in the preseason Top 25 since 2015 shows up in all four major polls, between Nos. 13-18, and is the highest-ranked in the Big Ten.“I know there’s a lot of excitement; that’s not lost on us,” coach Rhonda Revelle said. “I mean, you can’t lie. We’re at practice, there’s construction going on, and they’re trying to accommodate more fans, so it’s not like it’s invisible to us.”The Cornhuskers bring back all the top players from the 36-22 team that made an NCAA regional for a second straight year. But make no mistake: their sudden popularity is attributable to Bahl.The two-time All-America pitcher shocked the college softball world last June when, a week after she led Oklahoma to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-softball-oklahoma-florida-state-b9075d910505fdc6d4ddd11c35996972">third straight national championship</a>&nbsp;and was named Most Outstanding Player in the Women’s College World Series, she announced she would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nebraska-oklahoma-softball-jordy-bahl-e3a8f46d4a53f0c2f1af539a4f2652bc">transfer to her home-state school.</a>Bahl grew up in the Omaha suburb of Papillion and strongly considered going to Nebraska out of high school before picking the powerhouse Sooners. She went 44-2, won two national titles and was Big 12 pitcher of the year and a first-team All-American each year.She cited homesickness and a desire to help grow the sport in the state of Nebraska when she announced her decision to leave OU after two years.Bahl demurred when asked how she handles being in the spotlight in Lincoln.“I don’t think I’ve ever looked at it that way,” she said. "It’s just our team, and we show up and we go to work every day, and that’s just how it is.”The evidence suggests otherwise.In the days following her transfer, Nebraska received requests for more than 2,000 new season tickets. The Huskers, who averaged 1,000 fans per game at 2,530-seat Bowlin Stadium last season, immediately made plans to get capacity over 3,000 before the March 1 home opener.“I think it makes us excited because it just shows how our game is growing, and it’s an awesome feeling to just know that the people of Nebraska are excited to come and watch softball," Bahl said. “And we’re all working really hard to try to make it a fun show to watch.”Bahl has had no difficulty fitting in. There are six other native Nebraskans on the roster, she was a club teammate with standout shortstop Billie Andrews and knows other players from summer ball.“She’s a great person off the field, and I think that just bleeds into who she is on the field,” Andrews said. “And we know when we go out there and play, we’ve got her back and she’s got ours. She’s a great addition to this team.”The Huskers open at a tournament in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, on Thursday against Washington, which is ranked as high as No. 7. The pitching matchup could pit Bahl against a fellow Nebraskan in Ruby Meylan, a preseason second-team All-American from Omaha.The Huskers will play another nationally ranked team in Duke on Friday, and they have nonconference games later this month against Top 25 opponents and future Big Ten members UCLA and Oregon.It's a schedule designed to prepare the Huskers for conference play and beyond.“Our goal," Bahl said, “is to be the last team standing."

Jordy Bahl's move to Nebraska creates overwhelming softball ticket demand and national title hopes

North Platte, Neb. – North Platte dominates Central Community College in the second half for an 89-61 win inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium on Tuesday night.

Parker Baumann scored all 26 points in the second half, while knocking down four from long range to lead three North Platte players in double figures. Davion Evans chipped in 21 points off the bench, while Bryce Baez scored 13 points on 5-of-11 shooting from the floor.&nbsp;

Knights quickly erased the one-point deficit in the opening minutes of the second half, as Baumann tallied six points during the 8-3 run. North Platte continued to hold the momentum despite Central tying the game up at 50-50 with 12:31 remaining.

The margin stayed within two possessions for the next three minutes until a 16-2 run helped the Knights pull away for good. Baumann and Evans each scored eight points during the stretch, as stellar defense assisted in propelling North Platte out front.

Knights continued to add to their lead over the final five minutes as they put the finishing touches on their fourth Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference win of the season.

North Platte shot 39.3 percent (11-28) from the field in the first half but countered to shoot 22-of-36 (.611) over the final twenty minutes.&nbsp;

North Platte (11-11, 4-1 NCCAC) will return to Region IX action against Lamar Community College on Friday. Tip is set for 8 p.m. in Lamar, Colo.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707314841711.jpeg" alt="Parker Baumann turns the corner after receiving a screen from Bryce Baez in the second half against Central Community College on Tuesday. (Daniel Stinman, Mid-Plains Community College)" />
 <figcaption>Parker Baumann turns the corner after receiving a screen from Bryce Baez in the second half against Central Community College on Tuesday. (Daniel Stinman, Mid-Plains Community College)</figcaption>
 </figure>NPCCNorth Platte, Neb. – North Platte dominates Central Community College in the second half for an 89-61 win inside the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium on Tuesday night.Parker Baumann scored all 26 points in the second half, while knocking down four from long range to lead three North Platte players in double figures. Davion Evans chipped in 21 points off the bench, while Bryce Baez scored 13 points on 5-of-11 shooting from the floor.&nbsp;Knights quickly erased the one-point deficit in the opening minutes of the second half, as Baumann tallied six points during the 8-3 run. North Platte continued to hold the momentum despite Central tying the game up at 50-50 with 12:31 remaining.The margin stayed within two possessions for the next three minutes until a 16-2 run helped the Knights pull away for good. Baumann and Evans each scored eight points during the stretch, as stellar defense assisted in propelling North Platte out front.Knights continued to add to their lead over the final five minutes as they put the finishing touches on their fourth Nebraska Community College Athletic Conference win of the season.North Platte shot 39.3 percent (11-28) from the field in the first half but countered to shoot 22-of-36 (.611) over the final twenty minutes.&nbsp;North Platte (11-11, 4-1 NCCAC) will return to Region IX action against Lamar Community College on Friday. Tip is set for 8 p.m. in Lamar, Colo.&nbsp;

Big second half aids in Knights win over Raiders

North Platte, Neb. – North Platte Community College to host National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) on Saturday, Feb. 10.

National Girls and Women in Sports Day honors the achievements of girls and women in sports by acknowledging the power of sports that unlock their limitless potential.

The athletic department will offer free admission to the women’s basketball game at 2 p.m. for youth and high school girl’s teams and coaches, while concluding all festivities with a special autograph signing with the women’s basketball team following the game.

Reserve your tickets by calling Jeff Thurman at 308-535-3756.

NPCCNorth Platte, Neb. – North Platte Community College to host National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) on Saturday, Feb. 10.National Girls and Women in Sports Day honors the achievements of girls and women in sports by acknowledging the power of sports that unlock their limitless potential.The athletic department will offer free admission to the women’s basketball game at 2 p.m. for youth and high school girl’s teams and coaches, while concluding all festivities with a special autograph signing with the women’s basketball team following the game.Reserve your tickets by calling Jeff Thurman at 308-535-3756.

Knights to celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day

Collier Becomes Advisor to the Organization, Kuhn Named Interim Head Coach, Schmidt Joins as Assistant Coach and Operations Assistant

OMAHA, Neb.&nbsp;– Today, the Omaha Supernovas announced head coach Shelton Collier will serve as an Advisor to the Organization, and named assistant coach, Laura “Bird” Kuhn, as the interim Head Coach. Additionally, former Creighton volleyball standout, Jazz Schmidt, joins the Supernovas’ impressive coaching staff as an assistant coach and operations assistant.&nbsp;

“With the Supernovas off to a tremendous start, we need to expand our operations in preparations for our immediate future needs. We are fortunate to have Coach Collier’s experience in moving into this role as Advisor to the Organization,” Supernovas President,&nbsp;Diane Mendenhall, said. “As Head Coach, Shelton has been a vital part of the formation of this team; helping us recruit a world-class roster that Omaha and our state have embraced. He also assembled an extremely talented coaching staff, whose collective skill sets, experience and dynamics, will continue to elevate the momentum in building a championship franchise.”&nbsp;

This coaching staff expansion comes at a vital time for the Supernovas as the franchise operationalizes the next phase of the organization’s growth. In his new role, Collier will be evaluating players throughout the nation and internationally as Omaha prepares for the upcoming free agency and the Pro Volleyball Federation Draft. With Kuhn serving as interim head coach, a national search is underway for a permanent head coach.&nbsp;

Collier&nbsp;said, “I am appreciative of the opportunity to have been the head coach for the Supernovas. I am proud of the talented roster we assembled and am very proud of the teams' development and performance. The players receive tremendous support from the ownership group, the staff, the media, and the incredible fans, and they are well-positioned for a championship run this season and, in the future, as well. I have great confidence and respect for Bird. I am also extremely excited about the short term and long-term success of the Pro Volleyball Federation and am looking forward to seeing this league grow and expand this year and for years to come.”&nbsp;

On Kuhn,&nbsp;Mendenhall&nbsp;shared, “We are thrilled Coach Kuhn has agreed to step into the interim Head Coach position, allowing us to internally grow the structure of our organization for this next phase. She has been a vital part of our team as our lead Assistant Coach and along with her coaching duties, she has served in the key role as the player relations coach building our tremendous team culture. Her valuable experience as a highly respected head coach and collegiate player has been a vital element in the launch of the Supernovas. Additionally, we have tremendous assistants in place, allowing us the time and opportunity to conduct a national search."

Kuhn brings valuable leadership experience to the Supernovas as she steps into the new role, serving as the head coach for the Texas A&amp;M volleyball program from 2018-2022. Kuhn was named the 2019 SEC Coach of the Year after leading the Aggies to a Sweet 16 appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Prior to Texas A&amp;M, Kuhn established herself as one of the top assistants in the country, winning the 2015 AVCA National Assistant of the Year, as the Associate Head Coach at the University of Kansas where she helped the team reach its first Final Four in school history.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kuhn&nbsp;shared, “I am beyond grateful for the opportunity Coach Collier has created for me and the mentorship he will continue to provide as we trailblaze the path for our sport.&nbsp;He put his time and talents into building this team and has set this organization up for success.&nbsp; We have some of the best athletes in the world playing here in Omaha, and we are making history in the United States in this inaugural season of the Pro Volleyball Federation. There are very few times in life that we are able to do something for the first time, and I am pleased to be able to continue supporting this historic effort as interim head coach.”&nbsp;

Kuhn is assisted by talented, veteran coaches who, together, form one of the top coaching staffs in the Pro Volleyball Federation. Assistant coaches John Xie, John Corbelli and Technical Coordinator Thomas Robson are volleyball veterans with vast international and collegiate experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Additionally, former Creighton star Jazz Schimdt has joined the Supernovas as assistant coach and operations assistant. Schmidt was an All-American opposite and setter during her time at Division II Palm Beach Atlantic University before transferring to Creighton for her final collegiate season in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kuhn&nbsp;said, “Jazz is a natural connector and has seamlessly made her presence felt within this organization.&nbsp; She has been an absolute joy to have in the gym and will serve as a great player-coach moving forward.&nbsp; Her energy and insights will only make our organization stronger.”&nbsp;

Schmidt&nbsp;shared, “I am beyond grateful and honored to have the opportunity to be part of the Supernovas organization in the inaugural pro volleyball season. I have found so much joy in this team from the beginning of Minicamp though Training Camp, and I am excited to continue working with this talented group of athletes and people that we have here in Omaha! Especially as a Bluejay, it is incredibly special to be a part of bringing professional volleyball to Nebraska.”&nbsp;

Xie has worked with USA Volleyball for more than 20 years and serves as the Director of Operations and Assistant Coach, which includes multiple roles on the gold-medal winning 2020 Tokyo Olympic team.&nbsp;

Corbelli has been coaching volleyball since 1981 serving as an assistant coach at the University of Nebraska, USA Volleyball and Associate Head Coach at Texas A&amp;M. That also includes a stint as Head Coach for San Jose State University.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Robson currently serves as the Technical Coordinator for the Supernovas and brings his expertise from his time with the University of Wisconsin Volleyball program, and then leading the NAIA volleyball powerhouse, Viterbo University.&nbsp;

The Supernovas earned their first win in franchise history against the San Diego Mojo on Saturday, February 3, while setting U.S. pro volleyball attendance records of over 11,000 in attendance for each of their first two matches. The Supernovas will return to the court on Wednesday, February 7, hosting the Vegas Thrill at the CHI Health Center with first serve set for 7:00 p.m. CST.&nbsp;

The Supernovas are one of seven U.S. teams for the 2024&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tHihknoo4bCsngXJn8UgfiyBJSUCjyQvQ90vd06Iq-kY0DbvwvVoGbH-GaNy2aQeFp_EJOd3FHiB7FHVF-crFET4TkzrSYWEawOv4TzYc4nNcOeIW_2djdds2HEZsyRBVht0KHbAmsnPNEz3sjSjVg==&amp;c=p3C_O7E1oP-zYQnWmj9nQoe2y4BduVvZG30JAYZyY25hawjw-Qa57A==&amp;ch=Is1df7iIzR99_cnW_jku1Z_RPn5OxwRXSSk6n9g2iA2BXzxMgIY60A==" target="_blank">Pro Volleyball Federation</a>&nbsp;inaugural season: Omaha Supernovas, Atlanta Vibe, Columbus Fury, Grand Rapids Rise, Orlando Valkyries, San Diego Mojo and Vegas Thrill. Three expansion teams, Dallas Pro Volleyball, Indianapolis Pro Volleyball and Kansas City Pro Volleyball, have been announced for 2025. This year, the Supernovas have 12 home and 12 away matches as part of a 24-match schedule across a 16-week regular season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When the regular season concludes, the Supernovas are aiming to be in the top four teams competing for the Pro Volleyball Federation National Championship in May. The location of the championship will be determined and announced later this season.&nbsp;

The Omaha Supernovas aims to be the premier home of professional volleyball throughout the world. The team is owned by global music sensation Jason Derulo, as well as business leaders and entrepreneurs Danny White and Chris Erickson, co-founders of City+Ventures, an investment and business acceleration organization headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska. More team information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tHihknoo4bCsngXJn8UgfiyBJSUCjyQvQ90vd06Iq-kY0DbvwvVoGbH-GaNy2aQeFp_EJOd3FHiB7FHVF-crFET4TkzrSYWEawOv4TzYc4nNcOeIW_2djdds2HEZsyRBVht0KHbAmsnPNEz3sjSjVg==&amp;c=p3C_O7E1oP-zYQnWmj9nQoe2y4BduVvZG30JAYZyY25hawjw-Qa57A==&amp;ch=Is1df7iIzR99_cnW_jku1Z_RPn5OxwRXSSk6n9g2iA2BXzxMgIY60A==" target="_blank">Supernovas.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pro Volleyball Federation is REAL PRO VOLLEYBALL and the premier women’s professional volleyball league in North America. Pro Volleyball Federation began play in January 2024 with world class players and coaches, including some of America’s greatest volleyball players and elite players from around the world. Our focus is on ensuring that the level and quality of play, treatment of players, quality of event presentations and the daily fan experience is world class and the best offered in North America. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tHihknoo4bCsngXJn8UgfiyBJSUCjyQvQ90vd06Iq-kY0DbvwvVoGbH-GaNy2aQelBK-i7CjzDALy3MEHGKE2fvc5Q_PhbJLY9TRpWR601s_AHOuiiLT3hUuxMLGLvazV-H-UHoayD3Tojphw07_MQ==&amp;c=p3C_O7E1oP-zYQnWmj9nQoe2y4BduVvZG30JAYZyY25hawjw-Qa57A==&amp;ch=Is1df7iIzR99_cnW_jku1Z_RPn5OxwRXSSk6n9g2iA2BXzxMgIY60A==" target="_blank">ProVolleyball.com</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707247138007.jpeg" alt="Laura “Bird” Kuhn" />
 <figcaption>Laura “Bird” Kuhn</figcaption>
 </figure>Geoff ExstromOmaha SupernovasCollier Becomes Advisor to the Organization, Kuhn Named Interim Head Coach, Schmidt Joins as Assistant Coach and Operations AssistantOMAHA, Neb.&nbsp;– Today, the Omaha Supernovas announced head coach Shelton Collier will serve as an Advisor to the Organization, and named assistant coach, Laura “Bird” Kuhn, as the interim Head Coach. Additionally, former Creighton volleyball standout, Jazz Schmidt, joins the Supernovas’ impressive coaching staff as an assistant coach and operations assistant.&nbsp;“With the Supernovas off to a tremendous start, we need to expand our operations in preparations for our immediate future needs. We are fortunate to have Coach Collier’s experience in moving into this role as Advisor to the Organization,” Supernovas President,&nbsp;Diane Mendenhall, said. “As Head Coach, Shelton has been a vital part of the formation of this team; helping us recruit a world-class roster that Omaha and our state have embraced. He also assembled an extremely talented coaching staff, whose collective skill sets, experience and dynamics, will continue to elevate the momentum in building a championship franchise.”&nbsp;This coaching staff expansion comes at a vital time for the Supernovas as the franchise operationalizes the next phase of the organization’s growth. In his new role, Collier will be evaluating players throughout the nation and internationally as Omaha prepares for the upcoming free agency and the Pro Volleyball Federation Draft. With Kuhn serving as interim head coach, a national search is underway for a permanent head coach.&nbsp;Collier&nbsp;said, “I am appreciative of the opportunity to have been the head coach for the Supernovas. I am proud of the talented roster we assembled and am very proud of the teams' development and performance. The players receive tremendous support from the ownership group, the staff, the media, and the incredible fans, and they are well-positioned for a championship run this season and, in the future, as well. I have great confidence and respect for Bird. I am also extremely excited about the short term and long-term success of the Pro Volleyball Federation and am looking forward to seeing this league grow and expand this year and for years to come.”&nbsp;On Kuhn,&nbsp;Mendenhall&nbsp;shared, “We are thrilled Coach Kuhn has agreed to step into the interim Head Coach position, allowing us to internally grow the structure of our organization for this next phase. She has been a vital part of our team as our lead Assistant Coach and along with her coaching duties, she has served in the key role as the player relations coach building our tremendous team culture. Her valuable experience as a highly respected head coach and collegiate player has been a vital element in the launch of the Supernovas. Additionally, we have tremendous assistants in place, allowing us the time and opportunity to conduct a national search."Kuhn brings valuable leadership experience to the Supernovas as she steps into the new role, serving as the head coach for the Texas A&amp;M volleyball program from 2018-2022. Kuhn was named the 2019 SEC Coach of the Year after leading the Aggies to a Sweet 16 appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Prior to Texas A&amp;M, Kuhn established herself as one of the top assistants in the country, winning the 2015 AVCA National Assistant of the Year, as the Associate Head Coach at the University of Kansas where she helped the team reach its first Final Four in school history.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kuhn&nbsp;shared, “I am beyond grateful for the opportunity Coach Collier has created for me and the mentorship he will continue to provide as we trailblaze the path for our sport.&nbsp;He put his time and talents into building this team and has set this organization up for success.&nbsp; We have some of the best athletes in the world playing here in Omaha, and we are making history in the United States in this inaugural season of the Pro Volleyball Federation. There are very few times in life that we are able to do something for the first time, and I am pleased to be able to continue supporting this historic effort as interim head coach.”&nbsp;Kuhn is assisted by talented, veteran coaches who, together, form one of the top coaching staffs in the Pro Volleyball Federation. Assistant coaches John Xie, John Corbelli and Technical Coordinator Thomas Robson are volleyball veterans with vast international and collegiate experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, former Creighton star Jazz Schimdt has joined the Supernovas as assistant coach and operations assistant. Schmidt was an All-American opposite and setter during her time at Division II Palm Beach Atlantic University before transferring to Creighton for her final collegiate season in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kuhn&nbsp;said, “Jazz is a natural connector and has seamlessly made her presence felt within this organization.&nbsp; She has been an absolute joy to have in the gym and will serve as a great player-coach moving forward.&nbsp; Her energy and insights will only make our organization stronger.”&nbsp;Schmidt&nbsp;shared, “I am beyond grateful and honored to have the opportunity to be part of the Supernovas organization in the inaugural pro volleyball season. I have found so much joy in this team from the beginning of Minicamp though Training Camp, and I am excited to continue working with this talented group of athletes and people that we have here in Omaha! Especially as a Bluejay, it is incredibly special to be a part of bringing professional volleyball to Nebraska.”&nbsp;Xie has worked with USA Volleyball for more than 20 years and serves as the Director of Operations and Assistant Coach, which includes multiple roles on the gold-medal winning 2020 Tokyo Olympic team.&nbsp;Corbelli has been coaching volleyball since 1981 serving as an assistant coach at the University of Nebraska, USA Volleyball and Associate Head Coach at Texas A&amp;M. That also includes a stint as Head Coach for San Jose State University.&nbsp;&nbsp;Robson currently serves as the Technical Coordinator for the Supernovas and brings his expertise from his time with the University of Wisconsin Volleyball program, and then leading the NAIA volleyball powerhouse, Viterbo University.&nbsp;The Supernovas earned their first win in franchise history against the San Diego Mojo on Saturday, February 3, while setting U.S. pro volleyball attendance records of over 11,000 in attendance for each of their first two matches. The Supernovas will return to the court on Wednesday, February 7, hosting the Vegas Thrill at the CHI Health Center with first serve set for 7:00 p.m. CST.&nbsp;The Supernovas are one of seven U.S. teams for the 2024&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tHihknoo4bCsngXJn8UgfiyBJSUCjyQvQ90vd06Iq-kY0DbvwvVoGbH-GaNy2aQeFp_EJOd3FHiB7FHVF-crFET4TkzrSYWEawOv4TzYc4nNcOeIW_2djdds2HEZsyRBVht0KHbAmsnPNEz3sjSjVg==&amp;c=p3C_O7E1oP-zYQnWmj9nQoe2y4BduVvZG30JAYZyY25hawjw-Qa57A==&amp;ch=Is1df7iIzR99_cnW_jku1Z_RPn5OxwRXSSk6n9g2iA2BXzxMgIY60A==" target="_blank">Pro Volleyball Federation</a>&nbsp;inaugural season: Omaha Supernovas, Atlanta Vibe, Columbus Fury, Grand Rapids Rise, Orlando Valkyries, San Diego Mojo and Vegas Thrill. Three expansion teams, Dallas Pro Volleyball, Indianapolis Pro Volleyball and Kansas City Pro Volleyball, have been announced for 2025. This year, the Supernovas have 12 home and 12 away matches as part of a 24-match schedule across a 16-week regular season.&nbsp;&nbsp;When the regular season concludes, the Supernovas are aiming to be in the top four teams competing for the Pro Volleyball Federation National Championship in May. The location of the championship will be determined and announced later this season.&nbsp;ABOUT OMAHA SUPERNOVAS&nbsp;&nbsp;The Omaha Supernovas aims to be the premier home of professional volleyball throughout the world. The team is owned by global music sensation Jason Derulo, as well as business leaders and entrepreneurs Danny White and Chris Erickson, co-founders of City+Ventures, an investment and business acceleration organization headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska. More team information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tHihknoo4bCsngXJn8UgfiyBJSUCjyQvQ90vd06Iq-kY0DbvwvVoGbH-GaNy2aQeFp_EJOd3FHiB7FHVF-crFET4TkzrSYWEawOv4TzYc4nNcOeIW_2djdds2HEZsyRBVht0KHbAmsnPNEz3sjSjVg==&amp;c=p3C_O7E1oP-zYQnWmj9nQoe2y4BduVvZG30JAYZyY25hawjw-Qa57A==&amp;ch=Is1df7iIzR99_cnW_jku1Z_RPn5OxwRXSSk6n9g2iA2BXzxMgIY60A==" target="_blank">Supernovas.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;ABOUT PRO VOLLEYBALL FEDERATION&nbsp;Pro Volleyball Federation is REAL PRO VOLLEYBALL and the premier women’s professional volleyball league in North America. Pro Volleyball Federation began play in January 2024 with world class players and coaches, including some of America’s greatest volleyball players and elite players from around the world. Our focus is on ensuring that the level and quality of play, treatment of players, quality of event presentations and the daily fan experience is world class and the best offered in North America. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tHihknoo4bCsngXJn8UgfiyBJSUCjyQvQ90vd06Iq-kY0DbvwvVoGbH-GaNy2aQelBK-i7CjzDALy3MEHGKE2fvc5Q_PhbJLY9TRpWR601s_AHOuiiLT3hUuxMLGLvazV-H-UHoayD3Tojphw07_MQ==&amp;c=p3C_O7E1oP-zYQnWmj9nQoe2y4BduVvZG30JAYZyY25hawjw-Qa57A==&amp;ch=Is1df7iIzR99_cnW_jku1Z_RPn5OxwRXSSk6n9g2iA2BXzxMgIY60A==" target="_blank">ProVolleyball.com</a>.&nbsp;

 Supernovas Announce Coaching Staff Promotions

The National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA) and the Nebraska Coaches Association (NCA) announce the advancement of 12 coaches as finalists for the National High School Athletic Coaches Association national coach of the year. The nominations were based on each coach’s career accomplishments through the 2022-23 athletic seasons (not retired more than two years prior).&nbsp; Two former Nebraska prep coaches will be honored by being inducted into the national high school coaching hall of fame as well.

Eight finalists from across the nation, in nineteen recognized sports categories will be honored during the National Coach of the Year Awards Banquet which will take place at the NHSACA’s national convention) in Bismarck on the evening of June 26. The highlight of the banquet will be the naming of the NHSACA national coach of the year in each sports category.

All Nebraska coaches were nominated for this national honor by the Nebraska Coaches Association.&nbsp; The selection is based on the following: career longevity, service to high school athletics, honors, championship years, and winning percentage. The nominees and finalists are evaluated by experts in the field of coaching using sport-specific rubrics to assign points in each category. NHSACA is the oldest coaches association in the nation formed by coaches, for coaches, and has been recognizing national coaches of the year since 1978.

The National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA) and the Nebraska Coaches Association (NCA) announce the advancement of 12 coaches as finalists for the National High School Athletic Coaches Association national coach of the year. The nominations were based on each coach’s career accomplishments through the 2022-23 athletic seasons (not retired more than two years prior).&nbsp; Two former Nebraska prep coaches will be honored by being inducted into the national high school coaching hall of fame as well.<div><style type="text/css">
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 <th class="tg-vvzq">Doug</th>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Shane</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Joydene</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Brian</td>
 <td class="tg-2ep2">Kabourek</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Kevin</td>
 <td class="tg-2ep2">Schrad</td>
 <td class="tg-djd3">Girls Track and Field</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Jacque</td>
 <td class="tg-2ep2">Tevis-Butler</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Andrea</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Jake</td>
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 <td class="tg-0485">Ed</td>
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</table></div>Eight finalists from across the nation, in nineteen recognized sports categories will be honored during the National Coach of the Year Awards Banquet which will take place at the NHSACA’s national convention) in Bismarck on the evening of June 26. The highlight of the banquet will be the naming of the NHSACA national coach of the year in each sports category.All Nebraska coaches were nominated for this national honor by the Nebraska Coaches Association.&nbsp; The selection is based on the following: career longevity, service to high school athletics, honors, championship years, and winning percentage. The nominees and finalists are evaluated by experts in the field of coaching using sport-specific rubrics to assign points in each category. NHSACA is the oldest coaches association in the nation formed by coaches, for coaches, and has been recognizing national coaches of the year since 1978.

Two area coaches announced as Coach of the Year Finalists

(AP) A National Labor Relations Board regional official ruled on Monday that Dartmouth basketball players are employees of the school, clearing the way for an election that would create the first-ever labor union for NCAA athletes.

All 15 members of the Dartmouth men’s basketball team signed a petition in September asking to join Local 560 of the Service Employees International Union, which already represents some other employees at the Ivy League school in Hanover, New Hampshire.

Unionizing would allow the players to negotiate not only over salary but working conditions, including practice hours and travel.

“Because Dartmouth has the right to control the work performed by the Dartmouth men’s basketball team, and the players perform that work in exchange for compensation, I find that the petitioned-for basketball players are employees within the meaning of the (National Labor Relations) Act,” NLRB Regional Director Laura Sacks wrote.

In a statement, Dartmouth basketball player representatives Cade Haskins and Romeo Myrthil called the ruling "a significant step forward for college athletes," adding, “we are excited to see how this decision will impact college sports nationwide.” They also announced plans to form the Ivy League Players Association for basketball players across the league.

“We believe that other athletes will recognize the opportunities this ruling presents and will be inspired to follow suit," the statement said. "This association aims to foster unity, advocate for athletes’ rights and well-being, and create a platform for collaborative decision-making. We look forward to working with our fellow Ivy League athletes to bring positive change to the landscape of college sports and the Ivy League.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-nil-charlie-baker-hearing-senate-83ed8f9e1fb267db1ce5e24d6b79617a">The NCAA</a>&nbsp;and universities across the country have been steadfast in insisting their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-athletes-nil-eb702d33a87bca98084ea492eccdf84c">athletes are students, not employees.</a>&nbsp;College sports leaders have even lobbied Congress for a federal law that would codify that classification as the NCAA faces&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-college-3d98cd455c2ed1c636ce46d8dd322100">a federal lawsuit in Pennsylvania</a>&nbsp;on the subject.

The Service Employees International Union petitioned the labor board on behalf of the Dartmouth players last year. SEIU international president Mary Kay Henry said they remain in full support of the unionization effort.

“This is an historic step forward for economic justice, racial justice, and union rights — not just for college athletes but for millions of young people across our country whose work is not valued like it should be,” she said in a statement.

The case is being closely watched, coming at a time when the NCAA's bedrock amateur athlete model is facing multiple challenges in court.

“It’s the first step to potential employee status for college athletes,” said Gabe Feldman, a sports law professor at Tulane.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dartmouth-basketball-union-employees-47e3269d1af0e8164614bb644046eda0">The school can still appeal</a>&nbsp;the regional director’s decision to the national board, which is what happened when members of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3d0b541ce6ba44b380fb762e2ecd2641">Northwestern football team held a union election</a>&nbsp;in 2014.

In that case, the ballots were impounded pending a ruling. Now, an election can be held and ballots counted while an appeal is pending. The Northwestern ballots were destroyed after the NLRB, which only governs private employers, decided that allowing the football players at the only private school in the Big Ten would skew the labor market in the conference.

In that case, the NLRB did not address the question of whether the players were employees. All eight Ivy League schools are private and do not grant athletic scholarships. Feldman said that could increase the likelihood the full board will uphold the ruling.

“But on the flip side, if Dartmouth men's basketball players are employees, not only what athletes are not employees, but does this make the music students employees?” Feldman said. “So this may open the door too far?”

There is a complaint before a different NLRB body in California that claims football and basketball&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-college-national-labor-relations-board-fd838566121436f2b54099a0695b36e1">players at Southern California</a>&nbsp;should be deemed employees of the school, the Pac-12 Conference in which they play and the NCAA. That hearing resumes later this month.

In a 2021 memo, the NLRB’s top lawyer said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-business-sports-football-national-labor-relations-board-02a278af8ae90bb18e33770fd5154366">college athletes should be considered employees.</a>

“The freedom to engage in far-reaching and lucrative business enterprises makes players at academic institutions much more similar to professional athletes who are employed by a team to play a sport,” NLRB General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo wrote.

During a four-day hearing in October, Dartmouth argued that the players shouldn’t be considered employees because athletics are part of the academic mission of the school, like performing in the orchestra or even playing club sports.

“At Dartmouth, students’ primary objective is learning,” school attorney Joe McConnell said then. “Dartmouth has adopted policies reflecting that students who participate in intercollegiate athletics are students first and athletes second.”

The college also said the men’s basketball program loses money. Attorneys for the players countered that the school’s numbers leave out important and lucrative revenue streams that the basketball team contributes to. What’s more, the players say it’s not whether the team turned a profit: What matters is if the program brings in revenue, and also whether coaches have control over the players.

The collegiate sports model based on amateurism is facing numerous legal and political threats, along with the NLRB ruling. The NCAA is facing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-legal-antitrust-lawsuit-tennessee-virginia-913a630c035f4598212ce6ff950ebeeb">at least six antitrust lawsuits,</a>&nbsp;including one brought last week by attorneys general from Tennessee and Virginia that challenges how recruits can be compensated for name, image and likeness.

The model has been crumbling, most significantly after a 2021 Supreme Court ruling that opened college sports up to additional — though still limited — kinds of pay. In response, the NCAA loosened rules to permitted players to profit from their celebrity.

“I think they’re all different sides to a similar threat,” Feldman said. “And the threat is the loss of control over the ability to restrict compensation to athletes. And we are closer than we’ve ever been to a system where college athletes not only receive significant additional compensation, but also have a vote in how much compensation they receive.”

Major League Baseball Players Association executive director Tony Clark said in a statement that the ruling shows “college athletes are employees, entitled to basic rights and fair compensation for their labor that has created a multibillion-dollar industry.”

“Today’s landmark NLRB ruling will improve the lives of all college athletes for generations to come,” Clark's statement said. “In the history of the sports labor movement, change has always been initiated by the courageous efforts of Players who decided to stand up and demand their fair share.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707232139014.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>(AP) A National Labor Relations Board regional official ruled on Monday that Dartmouth basketball players are employees of the school, clearing the way for an election that would create the first-ever labor union for NCAA athletes.All 15 members of the Dartmouth men’s basketball team signed a petition in September asking to join Local 560 of the Service Employees International Union, which already represents some other employees at the Ivy League school in Hanover, New Hampshire.Unionizing would allow the players to negotiate not only over salary but working conditions, including practice hours and travel.“Because Dartmouth has the right to control the work performed by the Dartmouth men’s basketball team, and the players perform that work in exchange for compensation, I find that the petitioned-for basketball players are employees within the meaning of the (National Labor Relations) Act,” NLRB Regional Director Laura Sacks wrote.In a statement, Dartmouth basketball player representatives Cade Haskins and Romeo Myrthil called the ruling "a significant step forward for college athletes," adding, “we are excited to see how this decision will impact college sports nationwide.” They also announced plans to form the Ivy League Players Association for basketball players across the league.“We believe that other athletes will recognize the opportunities this ruling presents and will be inspired to follow suit," the statement said. "This association aims to foster unity, advocate for athletes’ rights and well-being, and create a platform for collaborative decision-making. We look forward to working with our fellow Ivy League athletes to bring positive change to the landscape of college sports and the Ivy League.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-nil-charlie-baker-hearing-senate-83ed8f9e1fb267db1ce5e24d6b79617a">The NCAA</a>&nbsp;and universities across the country have been steadfast in insisting their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-athletes-nil-eb702d33a87bca98084ea492eccdf84c">athletes are students, not employees.</a>&nbsp;College sports leaders have even lobbied Congress for a federal law that would codify that classification as the NCAA faces&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-college-3d98cd455c2ed1c636ce46d8dd322100">a federal lawsuit in Pennsylvania</a>&nbsp;on the subject.The Service Employees International Union petitioned the labor board on behalf of the Dartmouth players last year. SEIU international president Mary Kay Henry said they remain in full support of the unionization effort.“This is an historic step forward for economic justice, racial justice, and union rights — not just for college athletes but for millions of young people across our country whose work is not valued like it should be,” she said in a statement.The case is being closely watched, coming at a time when the NCAA's bedrock amateur athlete model is facing multiple challenges in court.“It’s the first step to potential employee status for college athletes,” said Gabe Feldman, a sports law professor at Tulane.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dartmouth-basketball-union-employees-47e3269d1af0e8164614bb644046eda0">The school can still appeal</a>&nbsp;the regional director’s decision to the national board, which is what happened when members of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/3d0b541ce6ba44b380fb762e2ecd2641">Northwestern football team held a union election</a>&nbsp;in 2014.In that case, the ballots were impounded pending a ruling. Now, an election can be held and ballots counted while an appeal is pending. The Northwestern ballots were destroyed after the NLRB, which only governs private employers, decided that allowing the football players at the only private school in the Big Ten would skew the labor market in the conference.In that case, the NLRB did not address the question of whether the players were employees. All eight Ivy League schools are private and do not grant athletic scholarships. Feldman said that could increase the likelihood the full board will uphold the ruling.“But on the flip side, if Dartmouth men's basketball players are employees, not only what athletes are not employees, but does this make the music students employees?” Feldman said. “So this may open the door too far?”There is a complaint before a different NLRB body in California that claims football and basketball&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-college-national-labor-relations-board-fd838566121436f2b54099a0695b36e1">players at Southern California</a>&nbsp;should be deemed employees of the school, the Pac-12 Conference in which they play and the NCAA. That hearing resumes later this month.In a 2021 memo, the NLRB’s top lawyer said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-business-sports-football-national-labor-relations-board-02a278af8ae90bb18e33770fd5154366">college athletes should be considered employees.</a>“The freedom to engage in far-reaching and lucrative business enterprises makes players at academic institutions much more similar to professional athletes who are employed by a team to play a sport,” NLRB General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo wrote.During a four-day hearing in October, Dartmouth argued that the players shouldn’t be considered employees because athletics are part of the academic mission of the school, like performing in the orchestra or even playing club sports.“At Dartmouth, students’ primary objective is learning,” school attorney Joe McConnell said then. “Dartmouth has adopted policies reflecting that students who participate in intercollegiate athletics are students first and athletes second.”The college also said the men’s basketball program loses money. Attorneys for the players countered that the school’s numbers leave out important and lucrative revenue streams that the basketball team contributes to. What’s more, the players say it’s not whether the team turned a profit: What matters is if the program brings in revenue, and also whether coaches have control over the players.The collegiate sports model based on amateurism is facing numerous legal and political threats, along with the NLRB ruling. The NCAA is facing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ncaa-legal-antitrust-lawsuit-tennessee-virginia-913a630c035f4598212ce6ff950ebeeb">at least six antitrust lawsuits,</a>&nbsp;including one brought last week by attorneys general from Tennessee and Virginia that challenges how recruits can be compensated for name, image and likeness.The model has been crumbling, most significantly after a 2021 Supreme Court ruling that opened college sports up to additional — though still limited — kinds of pay. In response, the NCAA loosened rules to permitted players to profit from their celebrity.“I think they’re all different sides to a similar threat,” Feldman said. “And the threat is the loss of control over the ability to restrict compensation to athletes. And we are closer than we’ve ever been to a system where college athletes not only receive significant additional compensation, but also have a vote in how much compensation they receive.”Major League Baseball Players Association executive director Tony Clark said in a statement that the ruling shows “college athletes are employees, entitled to basic rights and fair compensation for their labor that has created a multibillion-dollar industry.”“Today’s landmark NLRB ruling will improve the lives of all college athletes for generations to come,” Clark's statement said. “In the history of the sports labor movement, change has always been initiated by the courageous efforts of Players who decided to stand up and demand their fair share.”

In Depth: Labor official rules Dartmouth players are employees, what's next for college sports?

Story by NPCC Athletic Communications

North Platte, Neb. – North Platte Community College announces that Janelle Higgins is no longer serving as the head softball coach effective Monday, Feb. 5.

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsNorth Platte, Neb. – North Platte Community College announces that Janelle Higgins is no longer serving as the head softball coach effective Monday, Feb. 5.

NPCC announces coaching change

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Keisei Tominaga scored a career-high 31 points while Nebraska outscored No. 14 Illinois 11-1 in the final 3:28 of regulation to get to overtime before the Illini prevailed 87-84 Sunday evening.&nbsp;

Tominaga finished with a game-high 31 points on 9-of-14 shooting, including 5-of-7 from 3-point range while Rienk Mast and Juwan Gary finished with 22 and 12 points, respectively for Nebraska (16-7, 6-6 Big Ten)&nbsp;

Coleman Hawkins led four Illinois (17-5, 8-3) players in double figures with 20 points and seven rebounds. Marcus Domask added 19 points, including a game-tying free throw with 3.1 seconds left in regulation.&nbsp;

The Huskers trailed 72-62 after a 3 pointer from Terrence Shannon Jr. with 3:29 left before mounting a furious comeback.

A 3-pointer from Brice Williams and a layup from Keisei Tominaga with 2:24 pulled Nebraska within 72-67. &nbsp;The Huskers got a stop on the defensive end before Mast was fouled and hit both free throws to make it all three-point game.

On Illinois’ next possession, Gary had a steal and was fouled as he converted both free throws to cut the deficit to one. After a couple of fouls, the Huskers got another steal as Josiah Allick came up with the ball and NU called timeout with 27.4 seconds left.&nbsp;

Gary, who posted a double-double with 12 points and 11 boards got Williams miss and Mast’s basket with 9.1 seconds remaining gave Nebraska a 73-72 advantage.&nbsp;

Illinois got the ball to Domask on the baseline, and he was fouled with 3.1 seconds left. &nbsp;He made the first to tie it up before missing the second to send the game to overtime. &nbsp;

Nebraska led briefly in the overtime period, as a Gary basket gave NU a 75-74 lead. &nbsp; Illinois responded with five straight points to build a 79-75 lead after Quincey Guerrier’s 3-pointer.&nbsp;

Nebraska would continue to fight as a Tominaga&nbsp;3-pointer and a Mast bucket cut the Illini advantage to 81-80 with 2:40 left on OT.&nbsp;

Nebraska was within 87-84 with under 20 seconds left before Shannon’s steal gave the Illini an opportunity to salt the game away with 1.7 seconds left. &nbsp;Shannon missed both free throws and Tominaga’s heave from 85 feet nearly sent the game to a second overtime.&nbsp;

Illinois came out red hot to open the second half, hitting its first six shots to take a 47-40 lead after a Hawkins 3-pointer just 3:28 into the second half.&nbsp;

Nebraska would regroup, using an 11-5 run to pull within 52-51 after a 3 pointer from Sam Hoiberg.&nbsp;

The Huskers were in striking distance and was within 66-60 before 3 pointers from Hawkins and Shannon stretched the lead to 10 with 3:29 left. Thats when the Huskers mounted the comeback to get the game to OT

In the first half, Nebraska held the Illini to 39.3 percent shooting, as the Huskers led for most of the half and took a 36-34 lead into the locker room.

Nebraska rode the hot hand of Tominaga in the first half, as he had 12 of the Huskers’ first 16 points as NU built a 12-6 lead after his second 3-pointer of the night with 13:39 left in the half.

Illinois ran off five straight points to regain the lead, but the Huskers could come back with a 7-0 run of their own and eventually built the margin to 26-19 after another Tominaga 3-pointer.&nbsp;

NU, which held Illinois to just one field goal over a seven-minute span, could not extend the lead, as the hosts got to the foul line 12 times in the first half to get within 28-27 after a Terrence Shannon Jr. dunk to force a Husker timeout.&nbsp;

The Huskers would have an answer as 3-pointers from Mast and Allick helped NU build a 36-29 lead with 2:24 left in the half, and the visitors took a two-point lead, at 36-34, into the half.&nbsp;

The Huskers will continue the two-game roadtrip on Wednesday, Feb. 7, as the Huskers travel to Northwestern. Tipoff from Welsh-Ryan Arena is set for 8 p.m. (central) and will be carried on BTN and the Huskers Radio Network.&nbsp;

Postgame Notes&nbsp;*-Nebraska improves falls to 1-2 in overtime games. Tonight was the Huskers’ second straight OT contest.&nbsp;

*-Juwan Gary posted his fourth double-double of the season and 7th of his career with 12 points and 11 rebounds.&nbsp;

*-Nebraska went a season-best 14-of-14 from the foul line.&nbsp;

*-Keisei Tominaga had a career-high 31 points, topping his previous career high of 30 against Penn State on Feb. 5, 2023. It was his fifth game of 20+ points this season.

*-With his five 3-pointers, he moved into the top-10 list of NU’s career chart with 149, passing both Tyronn Lue (145, 1996-98) and Cookie Belcher (146, 1997-2001). Tominaga’s five 3-pointers tied a career high set five previous times, most recently against Purdue on Jan. 9.

*-Nebraska had an 11-0 run to overcome a 10-point deficit and take the lead in the final seconds of regulation. It was NU’s 17th double-figure run this season.

*- Tominaga’s 31 points is the most by an Illini opponent this season (30, Isaiah Stafford of Valparaiso). He also set Illini opponent highs in 3 pointers (five) and free throws (eight) &nbsp;

*- Nebraska hit 12 3-pointers in tonight’s loss, marking the 13th time this year that NU has reached double figures in 3-pointers. &nbsp;

*- Nebraska now has 222 3-pointers this season, a total which is eighth on Husker single-season charts.

*- Nebraska went over 80 points for the 14th time this season. The Huskers fall to 12-2 with both losses coming in overtime (at Rutgers, at Illinois)

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsKeisei Tominaga scored a career-high 31 points while Nebraska outscored No. 14 Illinois 11-1 in the final 3:28 of regulation to get to overtime before the Illini prevailed 87-84 Sunday evening.&nbsp;Tominaga finished with a game-high 31 points on 9-of-14 shooting, including 5-of-7 from 3-point range while Rienk Mast and Juwan Gary finished with 22 and 12 points, respectively for Nebraska (16-7, 6-6 Big Ten)&nbsp;Coleman Hawkins led four Illinois (17-5, 8-3) players in double figures with 20 points and seven rebounds. Marcus Domask added 19 points, including a game-tying free throw with 3.1 seconds left in regulation.&nbsp;The Huskers trailed 72-62 after a 3 pointer from Terrence Shannon Jr. with 3:29 left before mounting a furious comeback.A 3-pointer from Brice Williams and a layup from Keisei Tominaga with 2:24 pulled Nebraska within 72-67. &nbsp;The Huskers got a stop on the defensive end before Mast was fouled and hit both free throws to make it all three-point game.On Illinois’ next possession, Gary had a steal and was fouled as he converted both free throws to cut the deficit to one. After a couple of fouls, the Huskers got another steal as Josiah Allick came up with the ball and NU called timeout with 27.4 seconds left.&nbsp;Gary, who posted a double-double with 12 points and 11 boards got Williams miss and Mast’s basket with 9.1 seconds remaining gave Nebraska a 73-72 advantage.&nbsp;Illinois got the ball to Domask on the baseline, and he was fouled with 3.1 seconds left. &nbsp;He made the first to tie it up before missing the second to send the game to overtime. &nbsp;Nebraska led briefly in the overtime period, as a Gary basket gave NU a 75-74 lead. &nbsp; Illinois responded with five straight points to build a 79-75 lead after Quincey Guerrier’s 3-pointer.&nbsp;Nebraska would continue to fight as a Tominaga&nbsp;3-pointer and a Mast bucket cut the Illini advantage to 81-80 with 2:40 left on OT.&nbsp;Nebraska was within 87-84 with under 20 seconds left before Shannon’s steal gave the Illini an opportunity to salt the game away with 1.7 seconds left. &nbsp;Shannon missed both free throws and Tominaga’s heave from 85 feet nearly sent the game to a second overtime.&nbsp;Illinois came out red hot to open the second half, hitting its first six shots to take a 47-40 lead after a Hawkins 3-pointer just 3:28 into the second half.&nbsp;Nebraska would regroup, using an 11-5 run to pull within 52-51 after a 3 pointer from Sam Hoiberg.&nbsp;The Huskers were in striking distance and was within 66-60 before 3 pointers from Hawkins and Shannon stretched the lead to 10 with 3:29 left. Thats when the Huskers mounted the comeback to get the game to OTIn the first half, Nebraska held the Illini to 39.3 percent shooting, as the Huskers led for most of the half and took a 36-34 lead into the locker room.Nebraska rode the hot hand of Tominaga in the first half, as he had 12 of the Huskers’ first 16 points as NU built a 12-6 lead after his second 3-pointer of the night with 13:39 left in the half.Illinois ran off five straight points to regain the lead, but the Huskers could come back with a 7-0 run of their own and eventually built the margin to 26-19 after another Tominaga 3-pointer.&nbsp;NU, which held Illinois to just one field goal over a seven-minute span, could not extend the lead, as the hosts got to the foul line 12 times in the first half to get within 28-27 after a Terrence Shannon Jr. dunk to force a Husker timeout.&nbsp;The Huskers would have an answer as 3-pointers from Mast and Allick helped NU build a 36-29 lead with 2:24 left in the half, and the visitors took a two-point lead, at 36-34, into the half.&nbsp;The Huskers will continue the two-game roadtrip on Wednesday, Feb. 7, as the Huskers travel to Northwestern. Tipoff from Welsh-Ryan Arena is set for 8 p.m. (central) and will be carried on BTN and the Huskers Radio Network.&nbsp;Postgame Notes&nbsp;*-Nebraska improves falls to 1-2 in overtime games. Tonight was the Huskers’ second straight OT contest.&nbsp;*-Juwan Gary posted his fourth double-double of the season and 7th of his career with 12 points and 11 rebounds.&nbsp;*-Nebraska went a season-best 14-of-14 from the foul line.&nbsp;*-Keisei Tominaga had a career-high 31 points, topping his previous career high of 30 against Penn State on Feb. 5, 2023. It was his fifth game of 20+ points this season.*-With his five 3-pointers, he moved into the top-10 list of NU’s career chart with 149, passing both Tyronn Lue (145, 1996-98) and Cookie Belcher (146, 1997-2001). Tominaga’s five 3-pointers tied a career high set five previous times, most recently against Purdue on Jan. 9.*-Nebraska had an 11-0 run to overcome a 10-point deficit and take the lead in the final seconds of regulation. It was NU’s 17th double-figure run this season.*- Tominaga’s 31 points is the most by an Illini opponent this season (30, Isaiah Stafford of Valparaiso). He also set Illini opponent highs in 3 pointers (five) and free throws (eight) &nbsp;*- Nebraska hit 12 3-pointers in tonight’s loss, marking the 13th time this year that NU has reached double figures in 3-pointers. &nbsp;*- Nebraska now has 222 3-pointers this season, a total which is eighth on Husker single-season charts.*- Nebraska went over 80 points for the 14th time this season. The Huskers fall to 12-2 with both losses coming in overtime (at Rutgers, at Illinois)*- Nebraska finished with nine turnovers, marking the 11th time this season with 10 or fewer turnovers in a game.&nbsp;*- Juwan Gary’s 12 points gave NU at least one bench player in double figures for the 20th time in 22 contests.&nbsp;&nbsp;