Story by NU Athletic Communications

Former Husker Cade Povich is set to become the 41st Nebraska baseball player to reach the Major Leagues after his contract was selected by the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday morning.

It marks the first MLB call-up for Povich, who is scheduled to make his first career start against the Toronto Blue Jays today at 12:07 p.m. CT.

The Bellevue, Neb., native has put up impressive numbers this spring at Triple-A Norfolk, posting a 5-1 record in 11 starts with a 3.18 ERA and 75 strikeouts in 56.2 innings.

Povich was named the International League Pitcher of the Month after a record-breaking month in April. Through five starts in April, Povich posted a 2-1 record with a 1.03 ERA while striking out 40 batters and walking just 10.

The former Husker became the first Tides pitcher in Orioles affiliate franchise history to punch out 40 batters through April and was the first Norfolk Arm since 2022 to fan at least seven batters in four consecutive outings.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsFormer Husker Cade Povich is set to become the 41st Nebraska baseball player to reach the Major Leagues after his contract was selected by the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday morning.It marks the first MLB call-up for Povich, who is scheduled to make his first career start against the Toronto Blue Jays today at 12:07 p.m. CT.The Bellevue, Neb., native has put up impressive numbers this spring at Triple-A Norfolk, posting a 5-1 record in 11 starts with a 3.18 ERA and 75 strikeouts in 56.2 innings.Povich was named the International League Pitcher of the Month after a record-breaking month in April. Through five starts in April, Povich posted a 2-1 record with a 1.03 ERA while striking out 40 batters and walking just 10.The former Husker became the first Tides pitcher in Orioles affiliate franchise history to punch out 40 batters through April and was the first Norfolk Arm since 2022 to fan at least seven batters in four consecutive outings.

Povich called up by Baltimore Orioles

Story by NPCC Athletic Communications

North Platte, Neb. – The North Platte Community College athletic department has named Mark Franzen as its third head coach in program history.

“Mark is an outstanding leader with a strong background in player development,” said&nbsp;Dr. Jody Tomanek, Vice President of Academic Affairs and NPCC. “We are happy to have him as part of our NPCC family and look forward to the future of Knights softball.”

Franzen spent over a decade coaching local youth softball teams. He began his career as a 12-18U head coach for the North Platte Express in 2007. During his nine years at the helm, he guided the Express to a Wyoming State Championship and an appearance at the National World Series tournament.

In 2014, he became the head coach of the 12-16U North Platte Express team where he oversaw all aspects of the program. Recently, he has served as an assistant coach for the North Platte Junior Belles (12-16U) and the North Platte Express (12-14U).

“I am looking forward to the challenge,” said Franzen. “This is the next step in my coaching progression and a big opportunity for me.”

Franzen graduated from North Platte High School in 1991, before earning an Associate of General Studies degree from Mid-Plains Community College in 2014. He currently owns Franzen Plumbing in North Platte.

Story by NPCC Athletic Communications<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717458721842.jpeg" alt="Dr. Jody Tomanek, Vice President of Academic Affairs and NPCC, welcomes new head coach Mark Franzen to North Platte Community College during a press conference on Monday evening." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Jody Tomanek, Vice President of Academic Affairs and NPCC, welcomes new head coach Mark Franzen to North Platte Community College during a press conference on Monday evening.</figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte, Neb. – The North Platte Community College athletic department has named Mark Franzen as its third head coach in program history.“Mark is an outstanding leader with a strong background in player development,” said&nbsp;Dr. Jody Tomanek, Vice President of Academic Affairs and NPCC. “We are happy to have him as part of our NPCC family and look forward to the future of Knights softball.”Franzen spent over a decade coaching local youth softball teams. He began his career as a 12-18U head coach for the North Platte Express in 2007. During his nine years at the helm, he guided the Express to a Wyoming State Championship and an appearance at the National World Series tournament.In 2014, he became the head coach of the 12-16U North Platte Express team where he oversaw all aspects of the program. Recently, he has served as an assistant coach for the North Platte Junior Belles (12-16U) and the North Platte Express (12-14U).“I am looking forward to the challenge,” said Franzen. “This is the next step in my coaching progression and a big opportunity for me.”Franzen graduated from North Platte High School in 1991, before earning an Associate of General Studies degree from Mid-Plains Community College in 2014. He currently owns Franzen Plumbing in North Platte.

NPCC hires Franzen to lead Knights softball program

Story by Buffalo Bill Rodeo Communications&nbsp;

North Platte, Neb. –June 3, 2024 – A special barrel racing horse is a winner in North Platte.

Truck is a barrel racing horse owned by and cared for by Stevi Hillman, of Weatherford, Texas, and for five of the six years the seventeen-year-old bay gelding has come to the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte, he’s won money.

In fact, the duo set the arena record in 2017, at 17.17 seconds, the first of their two first-place finishes. Their second first place finish was in 2022, with a 17.44 second run.

Truck and Hillman finished in second place in 2021 (17.46 seconds); got eleventh place in 2020 (17.66 seconds) and in 2016, finished in sixth place (17.71 seconds.)

The horse loves running barrels, and especially loves running in big outdoor pens, Hillman said.

And he’s always ready to rodeo, especially in the spring.

The Buffalo Bill Rodeo is the unofficial kickoff to the busy summer rodeo run, and Truck knows it.

“I think some of it is it’s the first time we’re getting on a trailer, and taking off for the summer, and he’s excited, fresh, happy, and ready to go,” Hillman said. “I really think that’s part of it.”

He has quite the personality, Hillman said.

“He’s hilarious, and he’s very needy. He loves to be pampered.” Hillman’s mother-in-law, Ceri Artzer, treats him with a machine that applies electro-therapy, electrical impulses that stimulate muscles and tissue.

“He absolutely eats that up,” she said. “He knows, when she comes to get him, what is going to happen.”

He also does not like to share attention.

“He does not like to see anybody else get petted or get cookies,” Hillman laughed. “He gets depressed when I’m home and riding other horses. He’s a hoot.”

Hillman has qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo eight times, but has only ridden Truck there one year.

He does not like the smaller arenas with long alleys, which is the setup at the Thomas and Mack Arena, the home of the National Finals.

When Truck is in an alley, he’s ready to run, and she had to hold him back at the Thomas and Mack.

“That is hard on him and he gets stressed in that alley, so I didn’t take him back there after that.

“He’s a good-strided, fast running horse that prefers room to get running. Once we learned that about him, we quit taking him to small arenas.”

Hillman will have three other horses in her trailer when she comes to the Buffalo Bill Rodeo.

Her second horse, Bridget, will be with her. Bridget was her backup horse at the 2023 National Finals Rodeo. She’ll also have two young five-year-old mares who need seasoning.

She and her husband, Ty, raise and train barrel horses. Their stud, TSH Pendleton, is the foundation of their program.

Hillman likes competing at the Buffalo Bill Rodeo.

“I like the setup, and the committee is really nice there. You can put pens up, too. It’s nice to start the summer season that way, when committees are nice and have good ground. It makes it refreshing and makes us feel good about leaving.”

Truck’s registered name is Cuatro Fame; his sire is Dash Ta Fame, a famous barrel racing stud; his dam goes back to Streakin Six, another famous barrel racing horse.

Truck is Hillman’s “gold child,” she said. “He’s my good old faithful, my reliable. I know what he’s going to do, every run.”

Hillman and Truck will compete on June 13, the second night of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte.

This year’s rodeo will be June 12-15 at the Wild West Rodeo Arena. Showtime is 8 pm nightly.

Tickets range in price from $11-$24 and can be purchased online at NebraskalandDays.com, at the NebraskalandDays office, and at the gate.

For more information and a complete schedule of NebraskalandDays events, visit the website or call&nbsp;the office at 308.532.7939.

Story by Buffalo Bill Rodeo Communications&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717423279993.jpeg" alt="Stevi Hillman aboard Truck in 2022, the second year the duo won the Buffalo Bill Rodeo. They set the arena record in 2017, the other year they won it (17.17 seconds). They also placed at the North Platte rodeo three other times. Photo by Don Christner." />
 <figcaption>Stevi Hillman aboard Truck in 2022, the second year the duo won the Buffalo Bill Rodeo. They set the arena record in 2017, the other year they won it (17.17 seconds). They also placed at the North Platte rodeo three other times. Photo by Don Christner.</figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte, Neb. –June 3, 2024 – A special barrel racing horse is a winner in North Platte.Truck is a barrel racing horse owned by and cared for by Stevi Hillman, of Weatherford, Texas, and for five of the six years the seventeen-year-old bay gelding has come to the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte, he’s won money.In fact, the duo set the arena record in 2017, at 17.17 seconds, the first of their two first-place finishes. Their second first place finish was in 2022, with a 17.44 second run.Truck and Hillman finished in second place in 2021 (17.46 seconds); got eleventh place in 2020 (17.66 seconds) and in 2016, finished in sixth place (17.71 seconds.)The horse loves running barrels, and especially loves running in big outdoor pens, Hillman said.And he’s always ready to rodeo, especially in the spring.The Buffalo Bill Rodeo is the unofficial kickoff to the busy summer rodeo run, and Truck knows it.“I think some of it is it’s the first time we’re getting on a trailer, and taking off for the summer, and he’s excited, fresh, happy, and ready to go,” Hillman said. “I really think that’s part of it.”He has quite the personality, Hillman said.“He’s hilarious, and he’s very needy. He loves to be pampered.” Hillman’s mother-in-law, Ceri Artzer, treats him with a machine that applies electro-therapy, electrical impulses that stimulate muscles and tissue.“He absolutely eats that up,” she said. “He knows, when she comes to get him, what is going to happen.”He also does not like to share attention.“He does not like to see anybody else get petted or get cookies,” Hillman laughed. “He gets depressed when I’m home and riding other horses. He’s a hoot.”Hillman has qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo eight times, but has only ridden Truck there one year.He does not like the smaller arenas with long alleys, which is the setup at the Thomas and Mack Arena, the home of the National Finals.When Truck is in an alley, he’s ready to run, and she had to hold him back at the Thomas and Mack.“That is hard on him and he gets stressed in that alley, so I didn’t take him back there after that.“He’s a good-strided, fast running horse that prefers room to get running. Once we learned that about him, we quit taking him to small arenas.”Hillman will have three other horses in her trailer when she comes to the Buffalo Bill Rodeo.Her second horse, Bridget, will be with her. Bridget was her backup horse at the 2023 National Finals Rodeo. She’ll also have two young five-year-old mares who need seasoning.She and her husband, Ty, raise and train barrel horses. Their stud, TSH Pendleton, is the foundation of their program.Hillman likes competing at the Buffalo Bill Rodeo.“I like the setup, and the committee is really nice there. You can put pens up, too. It’s nice to start the summer season that way, when committees are nice and have good ground. It makes it refreshing and makes us feel good about leaving.”Truck’s registered name is Cuatro Fame; his sire is Dash Ta Fame, a famous barrel racing stud; his dam goes back to Streakin Six, another famous barrel racing horse.Truck is Hillman’s “gold child,” she said. “He’s my good old faithful, my reliable. I know what he’s going to do, every run.”Hillman and Truck will compete on June 13, the second night of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte.This year’s rodeo will be June 12-15 at the Wild West Rodeo Arena. Showtime is 8 pm nightly.Tickets range in price from $11-$24 and can be purchased online at NebraskalandDays.com, at the NebraskalandDays office, and at the gate.For more information and a complete schedule of NebraskalandDays events, visit the website or call&nbsp;the office at 308.532.7939.

Golden Horse

Nebraska saw its season end with a 17-11 loss to Florida in an elimination game on Sunday afternoon at O’ Brate Stadium.

Nebraska (40-22) totaled 11 runs on 11 hits with three errors, while Florida (30-28) scored 17 runs on 16 hits.

Gabe Swansen led the Huskers going 2-for-5 with a two-run homer and double. His four total home runs in the Stillwater Regional finish as the most by a Husker in regional play since Matt Hopper (4) in the 2003 Lincoln Regional.

Across the postseason, the junior finishes 19-for-38 (.500) with six doubles, seven home runs and 16 RBI. He also ends the season with an extra-base hit in eight of Nebraska’s nine postseason games.

Overbeek launched a two-run blast of his own and drove in four runs, while Dylan Carey produced a two-run double in the sixth. Ben Columbus reached in four of five plate appearances, walking twice and recording a single and double. Rhett Stokes tallied two knocks with an RBI and Clay Bradford added an RBI double.

Jackson Brockett fell to 3-3 on the season after allowing seven runs, six earned, on six hits across 1.1 innings. Kyle Froehlich retired eight of nine batters in his 2.2 innings of work, allowing just one hit.

Casey Daiss, Evan Borst, Kyle Perry combined to throw four frames while Ty Horn retired all three batters faced in the ninth inning.

Nebraska grabbed the lead in the top of the first inning following Case Sanderson’s one-out walk. After a deep flyout to the warning track, Swansen hammered a two-run home run to left field that traveled 410 feet and put the Huskers up 2-0.

Florida responded in the bottom half after a throwing error and four-pitch walk put a pair of Gators on base. A wild pitch and RBI single through the right side from Colby Shelton evened the game at two with an inning in the books.

Silva reached in the second on a walk and stole his team-leading 32nd base of the season to advance into scoring position. Overbeek then parked a two-run long ball into the left-field bullpen  that put Nebraska back in front 4-2.

The Gators managed five runs on six hits in the bottom of the second inning, as three straight singles to lead off the frame cut the deficit to one. Jac Caglianone then gave Florida a 6-4 advantage with a three-run shot down the right-field line.

A hit batter and two consecutive singles padded the Gators' lead to 7-4 after only two innings.

Both teams went quietly in the third and fourth frames, before the game entered a lightning delay in the top of the fifth after Sanderson’s double. The delay put the game on halt for two hours and four minutes and resumed at 4:41 p.m. with Swansen at the plate.

After a scoreless inning from Daiss, Nebraska began the sixth with a walk from Columbus and an infield single from Stokes. Carey then slapped a two-run double down the left-field line to plate both Huskers and cut the deficit to just one run.

Florida, however, answered with four runs in the sixth and six runs in the seventh to take an 11-run lead.

Columbus doubled to begin the eighth, and a free pass to Stokes put two runners on base. A pinch-hit RBI double from Bradford and two-run single from Overbeek made it 17-9 in the top of the eighth.

Horn entered and struck out a pair of batters to set down the side in order in the eighth inning for the Huskers. After a double by Swansen, RBI knocks from Columbus and Stokes pulled NU within six, but the Huskers fell 17-11.

Nebraska concludes its 2024 season with a 40-22 overall record and its 18th regional appearance in program history. The Huskers also claimed their first Big Ten Tournament title since joining the conference in 2012-13.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska saw its season end with a 17-11 loss to Florida in an elimination game on Sunday afternoon at O’ Brate Stadium.Nebraska (40-22) totaled 11 runs on 11 hits with three errors, while Florida (30-28) scored 17 runs on 16 hits.Gabe Swansen led the Huskers going 2-for-5 with a two-run homer and double. His four total home runs in the Stillwater Regional finish as the most by a Husker in regional play since Matt Hopper (4) in the 2003 Lincoln Regional.Across the postseason, the junior finishes 19-for-38 (.500) with six doubles, seven home runs and 16 RBI. He also ends the season with an extra-base hit in eight of Nebraska’s nine postseason games.Overbeek launched a two-run blast of his own and drove in four runs, while Dylan Carey produced a two-run double in the sixth. Ben Columbus reached in four of five plate appearances, walking twice and recording a single and double. Rhett Stokes tallied two knocks with an RBI and Clay Bradford added an RBI double.Jackson Brockett fell to 3-3 on the season after allowing seven runs, six earned, on six hits across 1.1 innings. Kyle Froehlich retired eight of nine batters in his 2.2 innings of work, allowing just one hit.Casey Daiss, Evan Borst, Kyle Perry combined to throw four frames while Ty Horn retired all three batters faced in the ninth inning.Nebraska grabbed the lead in the top of the first inning following Case Sanderson’s one-out walk. After a deep flyout to the warning track, Swansen hammered a two-run home run to left field that traveled 410 feet and put the Huskers up 2-0.Florida responded in the bottom half after a throwing error and four-pitch walk put a pair of Gators on base. A wild pitch and RBI single through the right side from Colby Shelton evened the game at two with an inning in the books.Silva reached in the second on a walk and stole his team-leading 32nd base of the season to advance into scoring position. Overbeek then parked a two-run long ball into the left-field bullpen that put Nebraska back in front 4-2.The Gators managed five runs on six hits in the bottom of the second inning, as three straight singles to lead off the frame cut the deficit to one. Jac Caglianone then gave Florida a 6-4 advantage with a three-run shot down the right-field line.A hit batter and two consecutive singles padded the Gators' lead to 7-4 after only two innings.Both teams went quietly in the third and fourth frames, before the game entered a lightning delay in the top of the fifth after Sanderson’s double. The delay put the game on halt for two hours and four minutes and resumed at 4:41 p.m. with Swansen at the plate.After a scoreless inning from Daiss, Nebraska began the sixth with a walk from Columbus and an infield single from Stokes. Carey then slapped a two-run double down the left-field line to plate both Huskers and cut the deficit to just one run.Florida, however, answered with four runs in the sixth and six runs in the seventh to take an 11-run lead.Columbus doubled to begin the eighth, and a free pass to Stokes put two runners on base. A pinch-hit RBI double from Bradford and two-run single from Overbeek made it 17-9 in the top of the eighth.Horn entered and struck out a pair of batters to set down the side in order in the eighth inning for the Huskers. After a double by Swansen, RBI knocks from Columbus and Stokes pulled NU within six, but the Huskers fell 17-11.Nebraska concludes its 2024 season with a 40-22 overall record and its 18th regional appearance in program history. The Huskers also claimed their first Big Ten Tournament title since joining the conference in 2012-13.

Huskers conclude season at Stillwater Regional

North Platte, Ne - The weather stayed south of North Platte Saturday night and the crowd was treated to a great night of races at the Lincoln County Raceway. The next racing in North Platte will be on June 28 with the Sandhills Shootout Summer Nationals when URSS Sprint Cars &amp; RMMRA Midgets and Dwarfs along with the local divistions will all put on a show on the Lincoln County Raceway dirt.

Below are the results from BST Promotions.

DIRTcar Late Models - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Joe Bellm 2-Don Geist 3-Denton Duncan 4-Bryan Molt 5-Kelly Yutterman 6-Kyle Hill 7-Chris Hoff

Modifieds - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Dave Pedersen 2-Ronnie Wallace 3-Dillon Schultz 4-Brandon Clough 5- Trevor Geist 6-Dewain Coleman 7-Tanner Clough 8-Ayden Steffens 9- Jacob Tobey 10-Troy Seidl 11-Tucker Stevens 12-Anthony Rhoades

Stockcars - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Joseph Cooper 2-Kyle Clough 3-Josh Weekley 4-Quinton Yutterman 5-Mike Earll 6-Layne Bellm 7-Jacob Wolsleben 8-Bryan Herrick 9-Kyle Brennan 10-Rick Maier 11-Russ Small(Jr) 12-Brian Shaw 13-Johnny Yutterman 14-David Murray 15-Robert Leonard 16-Austin Rhoades

IMCA Northern SportMod - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Troy Bayne 2-Joseph Cooper 3-Chad Dolan 4-Jacob Olmstead 5-Lane Heil 6-Hunter Smith 7-Kerry Jones 8-Frank Ogden 9-Chris O'Connor 10-Austin Johnson 11-Kendrick Chapman

Hobby Stocks - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Tyler Thompson 2-Dillon Thompson 3-Zach Olmstead 4-Paxton Stubbs 5-Brayden Hurley 6-Tanner Jones 7-Robbie Kosmacek 8-Rob Durfee 9-Chuck Ledbetter 10-Jim Moore 11-Mike Taylor 12-Colt Gibbs 13-Trent Matson 14-Tylan Lambertus

Compacts - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Rileigh Flohrs 2-Brock Leibhart 3-Carson Lange 4-Robert Clanton 5-Anthony Simants 6-Josh Lambertus&nbsp;

Warriors - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Jonus Aragon 2-JD Renfro 3-Briana Worthington 4-Brandon Eller 5-Julie Gordon 6-Joe Renfro 7-Johnathan Renfro 8-Frank Ogden&nbsp;

North Platte, Ne - The weather stayed south of North Platte Saturday night and the crowd was treated to a great night of races at the Lincoln County Raceway. The next racing in North Platte will be on June 28 with the Sandhills Shootout Summer Nationals when URSS Sprint Cars &amp; RMMRA Midgets and Dwarfs along with the local divistions will all put on a show on the Lincoln County Raceway dirt.Below are the results from BST Promotions.DIRTcar Late Models - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Joe Bellm 2-Don Geist 3-Denton Duncan 4-Bryan Molt 5-Kelly Yutterman 6-Kyle Hill 7-Chris HoffModifieds - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Dave Pedersen 2-Ronnie Wallace 3-Dillon Schultz 4-Brandon Clough 5- Trevor Geist 6-Dewain Coleman 7-Tanner Clough 8-Ayden Steffens 9- Jacob Tobey 10-Troy Seidl 11-Tucker Stevens 12-Anthony RhoadesStockcars - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Joseph Cooper 2-Kyle Clough 3-Josh Weekley 4-Quinton Yutterman 5-Mike Earll 6-Layne Bellm 7-Jacob Wolsleben 8-Bryan Herrick 9-Kyle Brennan 10-Rick Maier 11-Russ Small(Jr) 12-Brian Shaw 13-Johnny Yutterman 14-David Murray 15-Robert Leonard 16-Austin RhoadesIMCA Northern SportMod - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Troy Bayne 2-Joseph Cooper 3-Chad Dolan 4-Jacob Olmstead 5-Lane Heil 6-Hunter Smith 7-Kerry Jones 8-Frank Ogden 9-Chris O'Connor 10-Austin Johnson 11-Kendrick ChapmanHobby Stocks - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Tyler Thompson 2-Dillon Thompson 3-Zach Olmstead 4-Paxton Stubbs 5-Brayden Hurley 6-Tanner Jones 7-Robbie Kosmacek 8-Rob Durfee 9-Chuck Ledbetter 10-Jim Moore 11-Mike Taylor 12-Colt Gibbs 13-Trent Matson 14-Tylan LambertusCompacts - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Rileigh Flohrs 2-Brock Leibhart 3-Carson Lange 4-Robert Clanton 5-Anthony Simants 6-Josh Lambertus&nbsp;Warriors - A Feature 1 (Results): 1-Jonus Aragon 2-JD Renfro 3-Briana Worthington 4-Brandon Eller 5-Julie Gordon 6-Joe Renfro 7-Johnathan Renfro 8-Frank Ogden&nbsp;

Race Results from Lincoln County Raceway (Saturday, June 1)

Stillwater, Ok - Gabe Swansen homered twice for the Huskers, as they kept their season alive with a 7-5 victory over Niagara on Saturday afternoon at O’ Brate Stadium.

Nebraska (40-21) totaled seven runs on eight hits with two errors, while Niagara (38-17) scored five runs on seven hits and an error.

The Huskers reached the 40-win mark for the first time since 2014 and the 19th time in program history.

Swansen finished 2-for-5 with a pair of home runs and now has an extra-base hit in seven of Nebraska’s eight postseason games. It marked NU’s first multi-homer game in a regional since Jake Opitz against Eastern Illinois in the 2008 Lincoln Regional.&nbsp;

Case Sanderson drove in a team-high four runs for the Huskers including a three-run homer in the third inning. Joshua Overbeek reached twice in the leadoff spot, while Tyler Stone and Rhett Stokes each added doubles. Dylan Carey also recorded two knocks and was hit by a pitch.&nbsp;

Mason McConnaughey improved to 9-3 this season with six innings of work for Nebraska, allowing five earned runs on five hits with 10 strikeouts and only one walk.

It marked his second straight double-digit strikeout performance and his 10 punchouts were the most by an NU pitcher in a regional since Matt Waldron (11) in the 2019 Stillwater Regional. Over his last four starts, McConaughey has punched out 36 batters while issuing just eight walks.

Additionally, Sears (101) and McConnaughey (91) became the first Husker pitching duo since at least 1985 to record 90-plus strikeouts in a single season. They are also the first NU duo with nine-or-more wins in a season since Tony Watson (10) and Johnny Dorn (9) in 2006.

Jalen Worthley entered in the seventh frame and retired nine of 11 batters faced across the final three innings to give the southpaw his team-high fifth save of the season.

Niagara jumped out to an early 3-0 lead after a hit batter, single and three-run home run from Eric Rataczak put the Purple Eagles in front. They added another run in the second inning after a double and a pair of flyouts put the Huskers in a four-run hole.

After going quietly in the first two frames, Carey began the third with a single up the middle and advanced to second on Riley Silva’s 17th sacrifice bunt of the season. Overbeek walked on four pitches to give the Huskers their runners on first and second with one out.&nbsp;

Sanderson then sent an 0-1 pitch into the left-field bleachers to trim the Niagara lead to 4-3. The ball traveled 379 feet and marked the freshman’s third long ball of the season for the Big Red.

Nebraska threatened again in the fourth inning, as Stokes doubled after a 105-mph line drive ricocheted off the pitcher and into the outfield. He stole third base but was cut down at the plate on a slow roller to the third baseman to keep the deficit at one.

On the mound, McConnaughey held steady as he struck out five of six batters faced across the third and fourth innings to give him eight punchouts on the afternoon.

The Huskers captured their first lead of the afternoon in the fifth inning, as Overbeek tripled to lead off the inning and was driven in on Sanderson’s RBI sacrifice fly. Swansen put NU in front with a 382-foot blast to left field for his second homer in as many days.

Niagara responded with a solo home run on the first pitch in the bottom of the fifth to knot the game at five.&nbsp;

Stone began the sixth frame with a double, before an errant throw by Niagara’s pitcher on Stokes’ bunt attempt gave the Huskers a 6-5 advantage. The Huskers managed to load the bases on a hit batter and intentional walk, but a strikeout ended the inning with NU ahead by just one.

McConnaughey recorded his 10th strikeout after a two-out single to end the sixth, before Swansen homered for the second time to left-center field in the seventh to put Nebraska in front 7-5. Worthley entered in the bottom of the seventh and retired the side in order on just eight pitches.

Nebraska threatened once again in the eighth, as Carey led off with a single and moved to second on Silva’s 18th sacrifice bunt, the most in Division I. However, a strikeout and flyout kept the Huskers off the board to end the inning.

Worthley worked around a double in the eighth frame and single in the ninth inning to ward off a Purple Eagles’ comeback and clinch a 7-5 victory.

Nebraska will take on the loser of Oklahoma State/Florida tomorrow at 1 p.m. in an elimination game at O’ Brate Stadium. Sunday’s action can be seen on ESPN+, while fans can listen to Ben McLaughlin and Dave Gustafson call the action on the Huskers Radio Network via KCOW-AM 1400/92.5 FM in Alliance or Huskers.com online.

Stillwater, Ok - Gabe Swansen homered twice for the Huskers, as they kept their season alive with a 7-5 victory over Niagara on Saturday afternoon at O’ Brate Stadium.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717337350704.jpeg" alt="Huskers move on to play Florida in elimination game at 1pm CT/Noon MT in Stillwater, Oklahoma on Sunday. Photo Credit-Nebraska Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Huskers move on to play Florida in elimination game at 1pm CT/Noon MT in Stillwater, Oklahoma on Sunday. Photo Credit-Nebraska Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Nebraska (40-21) totaled seven runs on eight hits with two errors, while Niagara (38-17) scored five runs on seven hits and an error.The Huskers reached the 40-win mark for the first time since 2014 and the 19th time in program history.Swansen finished 2-for-5 with a pair of home runs and now has an extra-base hit in seven of Nebraska’s eight postseason games. It marked NU’s first multi-homer game in a regional since Jake Opitz against Eastern Illinois in the 2008 Lincoln Regional.&nbsp;Case Sanderson drove in a team-high four runs for the Huskers including a three-run homer in the third inning. Joshua Overbeek reached twice in the leadoff spot, while Tyler Stone and Rhett Stokes each added doubles. Dylan Carey also recorded two knocks and was hit by a pitch.&nbsp;Mason McConnaughey improved to 9-3 this season with six innings of work for Nebraska, allowing five earned runs on five hits with 10 strikeouts and only one walk.It marked his second straight double-digit strikeout performance and his 10 punchouts were the most by an NU pitcher in a regional since Matt Waldron (11) in the 2019 Stillwater Regional. Over his last four starts, McConaughey has punched out 36 batters while issuing just eight walks.Additionally, Sears (101) and McConnaughey (91) became the first Husker pitching duo since at least 1985 to record 90-plus strikeouts in a single season. They are also the first NU duo with nine-or-more wins in a season since Tony Watson (10) and Johnny Dorn (9) in 2006.Jalen Worthley entered in the seventh frame and retired nine of 11 batters faced across the final three innings to give the southpaw his team-high fifth save of the season.Niagara jumped out to an early 3-0 lead after a hit batter, single and three-run home run from Eric Rataczak put the Purple Eagles in front. They added another run in the second inning after a double and a pair of flyouts put the Huskers in a four-run hole.After going quietly in the first two frames, Carey began the third with a single up the middle and advanced to second on Riley Silva’s 17th sacrifice bunt of the season. Overbeek walked on four pitches to give the Huskers their runners on first and second with one out.&nbsp;Sanderson then sent an 0-1 pitch into the left-field bleachers to trim the Niagara lead to 4-3. The ball traveled 379 feet and marked the freshman’s third long ball of the season for the Big Red.Nebraska threatened again in the fourth inning, as Stokes doubled after a 105-mph line drive ricocheted off the pitcher and into the outfield. He stole third base but was cut down at the plate on a slow roller to the third baseman to keep the deficit at one.On the mound, McConnaughey held steady as he struck out five of six batters faced across the third and fourth innings to give him eight punchouts on the afternoon.The Huskers captured their first lead of the afternoon in the fifth inning, as Overbeek tripled to lead off the inning and was driven in on Sanderson’s RBI sacrifice fly. Swansen put NU in front with a 382-foot blast to left field for his second homer in as many days.Niagara responded with a solo home run on the first pitch in the bottom of the fifth to knot the game at five.&nbsp;Stone began the sixth frame with a double, before an errant throw by Niagara’s pitcher on Stokes’ bunt attempt gave the Huskers a 6-5 advantage. The Huskers managed to load the bases on a hit batter and intentional walk, but a strikeout ended the inning with NU ahead by just one.McConnaughey recorded his 10th strikeout after a two-out single to end the sixth, before Swansen homered for the second time to left-center field in the seventh to put Nebraska in front 7-5. Worthley entered in the bottom of the seventh and retired the side in order on just eight pitches.Nebraska threatened once again in the eighth, as Carey led off with a single and moved to second on Silva’s 18th sacrifice bunt, the most in Division I. However, a strikeout and flyout kept the Huskers off the board to end the inning.Worthley worked around a double in the eighth frame and single in the ninth inning to ward off a Purple Eagles’ comeback and clinch a 7-5 victory.Nebraska will take on the loser of Oklahoma State/Florida tomorrow at 1 p.m. in an elimination game at O’ Brate Stadium. Sunday’s action can be seen on ESPN+, while fans can listen to Ben McLaughlin and Dave Gustafson call the action on the Huskers Radio Network via KCOW-AM 1400/92.5 FM in Alliance or Huskers.com online.

Husker homer keeps post-season hopes alive

The Nebraska softball team has added talented middle infielder Ava Kuszak to its 2025 roster. Kuszak is a transfer from Wisconsin who will be a junior next year with two seasons of eligibility at Nebraska.

Kuszak was a second-team All-Big Ten and third-team all-region selection in her first season as an everyday starter in 2024. She had a breakout sophomore season, hitting .318 with 15 doubles, one triple, nine home runs and 32 RBIs. Kuszak also scored 31 runs and posted a .599 slugging percentage. She ranked sixth in the Big Ten conference in doubles and produced 11 games with multiple hits and nine games with multiple RBIs.

As a freshman in 2023, Kuszak played in 24 games with 13 starts. She collected four hits in limited at bats – including one double and one home run – while scoring six runs and drawing five walks.

Kuszak hit .278 with 16 doubles, one triple, 10 home runs and 33 RBIs over 76 games in her two seasons at Wisconsin. She started 65 games as a Badger with 31 starts at second base, 30 at shortstop and four in right field.

A native of Broomfield, Colorado, Kuszak has numerous family ties to the Cornhusker state, and she played with several current Huskers on the Nebraska Gold team that won the 2021 Premier Girls Fastpitch national championship.

“We are thrilled to add Ava to the Red Team,” Head Coach Rhonda Revelle said. “Ava is a fiery competitor who is a powerful, fast and explosive player. Husker fans will absolutely love how she plays the game with so much energy and passion.”

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska softball team has added talented middle infielder Ava Kuszak to its 2025 roster. Kuszak is a transfer from Wisconsin who will be a junior next year with two seasons of eligibility at Nebraska.Kuszak was a second-team All-Big Ten and third-team all-region selection in her first season as an everyday starter in 2024. She had a breakout sophomore season, hitting .318 with 15 doubles, one triple, nine home runs and 32 RBIs. Kuszak also scored 31 runs and posted a .599 slugging percentage. She ranked sixth in the Big Ten conference in doubles and produced 11 games with multiple hits and nine games with multiple RBIs.As a freshman in 2023, Kuszak played in 24 games with 13 starts. She collected four hits in limited at bats – including one double and one home run – while scoring six runs and drawing five walks.Kuszak hit .278 with 16 doubles, one triple, 10 home runs and 33 RBIs over 76 games in her two seasons at Wisconsin. She started 65 games as a Badger with 31 starts at second base, 30 at shortstop and four in right field.A native of Broomfield, Colorado, Kuszak has numerous family ties to the Cornhusker state, and she played with several current Huskers on the Nebraska Gold team that won the 2021 Premier Girls Fastpitch national championship.“We are thrilled to add Ava to the Red Team,” Head Coach Rhonda Revelle said. “Ava is a fiery competitor who is a powerful, fast and explosive player. Husker fans will absolutely love how she plays the game with so much energy and passion.”

 Ava Kuszak joins Huskers

The Nebraska men’s tennis team continues to build its roster with the addition of UT Arlington transfer and WAC Player of the Year Joan Torres Espinosa for the 2024-25 season.

“We are extremely excited to have Joan join us here for the next two years,” Head Coach Peter Kobelt said. “He has all the attributes that you would like to see in a great student-athlete. He brings a lot of success and experience with him from UTA but what I believe makes him special is his no quit mentality and his leadership qualities for our locker room.”

The incoming junior from Spain recently completed his sophomore season with the Mavericks, tallying an impressive 17-6 mark in singles competition and earned a spot in the NCAA Singles Tournament. Espinosa helped UTA to its second-straight WAC Championship, while earning All-WAC First Singles Team honors.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Espinosa will join current Husker and former Maverick, Anton Shepp, and has two years of eligibility.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska men’s tennis team continues to build its roster with the addition of UT Arlington transfer and WAC Player of the Year Joan Torres Espinosa for the 2024-25 season.“We are extremely excited to have Joan join us here for the next two years,” Head Coach Peter Kobelt said. “He has all the attributes that you would like to see in a great student-athlete. He brings a lot of success and experience with him from UTA but what I believe makes him special is his no quit mentality and his leadership qualities for our locker room.”The incoming junior from Spain recently completed his sophomore season with the Mavericks, tallying an impressive 17-6 mark in singles competition and earned a spot in the NCAA Singles Tournament. Espinosa helped UTA to its second-straight WAC Championship, while earning All-WAC First Singles Team honors.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Espinosa will join current Husker and former Maverick, Anton Shepp, and has two years of eligibility.

Huskers add transfer Joan Torres Espinosa

Nebraska women’s gymnastics will add Reese Baechle to its roster for the 2024-25 season, the team announced on Thursday.&nbsp;

Baechle previously competed for Lindenwood, and marks the second Lion to join the Husker lineup, joining Nya Kraus.&nbsp;“We are pleased to welcome Reese to Lincoln,” head coach Heather Brink said. “I know she’s excited to be a part of the program and get to work. She was an integral part of Lindenwood’s depth on multiple events. I look forward to seeing her continued growth and can’t wait to see her shine under the lights of Devaney.”

The St. Charles, Mo., native was a staple in Lindenwood’s vault and floor lineups, along with competing on bars. She earned 2024 season-bests of 9.900 on vault, 9.850 on bars and 9.900 on floor. She added an impressive average of 9.808 on floor over the course of the year. Baechle will be a redshirt sophomore for Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska women’s gymnastics will add Reese Baechle to its roster for the 2024-25 season, the team announced on Thursday.&nbsp;Baechle previously competed for Lindenwood, and marks the second Lion to join the Husker lineup, joining Nya Kraus.&nbsp;“We are pleased to welcome Reese to Lincoln,” head coach Heather Brink said. “I know she’s excited to be a part of the program and get to work. She was an integral part of Lindenwood’s depth on multiple events. I look forward to seeing her continued growth and can’t wait to see her shine under the lights of Devaney.”The St. Charles, Mo., native was a staple in Lindenwood’s vault and floor lineups, along with competing on bars. She earned 2024 season-bests of 9.900 on vault, 9.850 on bars and 9.900 on floor. She added an impressive average of 9.808 on floor over the course of the year. Baechle will be a redshirt sophomore for Nebraska.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Huskers announce addition of Baechle to 2024-25 squad

Story by North Platte 80's Communications

5/29/2024-<a href="http://www.pecosleague.com/pecosleague.asp?page=39&amp;year=2024&amp;id=1532">Joe Burch</a>&nbsp;was the winning pitcher throwing 6 innings with 8 strikeouts while allowing 2 hits.

On the mound for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.northplatte80s.com/">North Platte 80s</a>&nbsp;it was&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pecosleague.com/pecosleague.asp?page=39&amp;year=2024&amp;id=80">Hobie Hood</a>&nbsp;who picked up the loss throwing 3 innings. For the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.saguarosbaseball.com/">Tucson Saguaros</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pecosleague.com/pecosleague.asp?page=39&amp;year=2024&amp;id=1556">Jordan Elliot</a>&nbsp;lead the way at the plate going 1-2.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pecosleague.com/pecosleague.asp?page=39&amp;year=2024&amp;id=1555">Andrew Baker</a>&nbsp;also helped the ballclub at the plate going 2-3.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Story by North Platte 80's Communications5/29/2024-<a href="http://www.pecosleague.com/pecosleague.asp?page=39&amp;year=2024&amp;id=1532">Joe Burch</a>&nbsp;was the winning pitcher throwing 6 innings with 8 strikeouts while allowing 2 hits.On the mound for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.northplatte80s.com/">North Platte 80s</a>&nbsp;it was&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pecosleague.com/pecosleague.asp?page=39&amp;year=2024&amp;id=80">Hobie Hood</a>&nbsp;who picked up the loss throwing 3 innings. For the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.saguarosbaseball.com/">Tucson Saguaros</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pecosleague.com/pecosleague.asp?page=39&amp;year=2024&amp;id=1556">Jordan Elliot</a>&nbsp;lead the way at the plate going 1-2.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pecosleague.com/pecosleague.asp?page=39&amp;year=2024&amp;id=1555">Andrew Baker</a>&nbsp;also helped the ballclub at the plate going 2-3.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717072000299.png" alt="Box Score" />
 <figcaption>Box Score</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717072077869.png" alt="Box Score" />
 <figcaption>Box Score</figcaption>
 </figure>

Tucson Saguaros offense overpowers North Platte 80s 13-0

Story by UNK Athletic Communications

Kearney, Neb. –&nbsp;The Nebraska Kearney women’s tennis team is ranked ninth in the final&nbsp;<a href="https://wearecollegetennis.com/ita-rankings/" target="_blank">Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Division II rankings</a>&nbsp;for the 2023-24 season.

Going 21-6, winning the MIAA regular season title and reaching the NCAA Elite Eight, the Lopers garnered 48.99 points in the ITA rating system. Flagler (Fla.) College, who UNK beat in February by a 4-2 score, is ranked eighth with 53.06 points.

This is the highest-ever ranking for Loper women’s tennis team. They were in the national rankings for most of the spring season, reaching a high of 15th&nbsp;on Feb. 28 and May 1.

Individually, senior&nbsp;Jazmin Zamorano&nbsp;(Mexico) is 40th&nbsp;in singles with MIAA Freshman of the Year&nbsp;Fabiana Gamboa&nbsp;(Venezuela) 45th. Zamorano went 23-12, winning the Central Region singles title in the fall with Gamboa’s first year resulting in a 16-8 dual record. Next, senior&nbsp;Melisa Becerra&nbsp;(Colombia) and junior&nbsp;Narindra Ranaivo&nbsp;(Madagascar) are ranked 13th. They beat number one ranked Madison Kane and Cristina Miruna Tudor of Azusa (Calif.) Pacific in the NCAA Sweet 16; however, that pair remains tops in the nation. Becerra and Ranaivo went 30-5, setting a school-record for single season doubles victories.

Finally, freshman&nbsp;Maksym Kulish&nbsp;(Ukraine) is ranked 51st&nbsp;in singles with graduate&nbsp;Aaron Osmond&nbsp;(U.K.) and freshman&nbsp;Tom van den Dungen&nbsp;(Netherlands) 16th&nbsp;in doubles. Kulish received an at-large bid to the ITA Cup in the fall with Osmond and van den Dungen going 16-6 in duals playing at number one.&nbsp;

The 2024-25 season begins in September with the fall slate featuring several duals and open tournaments.&nbsp;

Story by UNK Athletic CommunicationsKearney, Neb. –&nbsp;The Nebraska Kearney women’s tennis team is ranked ninth in the final&nbsp;<a href="https://wearecollegetennis.com/ita-rankings/" target="_blank">Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Division II rankings</a>&nbsp;for the 2023-24 season.Going 21-6, winning the MIAA regular season title and reaching the NCAA Elite Eight, the Lopers garnered 48.99 points in the ITA rating system. Flagler (Fla.) College, who UNK beat in February by a 4-2 score, is ranked eighth with 53.06 points.This is the highest-ever ranking for Loper women’s tennis team. They were in the national rankings for most of the spring season, reaching a high of 15th&nbsp;on Feb. 28 and May 1.Individually, senior&nbsp;Jazmin Zamorano&nbsp;(Mexico) is 40th&nbsp;in singles with MIAA Freshman of the Year&nbsp;Fabiana Gamboa&nbsp;(Venezuela) 45th. Zamorano went 23-12, winning the Central Region singles title in the fall with Gamboa’s first year resulting in a 16-8 dual record. Next, senior&nbsp;Melisa Becerra&nbsp;(Colombia) and junior&nbsp;Narindra Ranaivo&nbsp;(Madagascar) are ranked 13th. They beat number one ranked Madison Kane and Cristina Miruna Tudor of Azusa (Calif.) Pacific in the NCAA Sweet 16; however, that pair remains tops in the nation. Becerra and Ranaivo went 30-5, setting a school-record for single season doubles victories.Finally, freshman&nbsp;Maksym Kulish&nbsp;(Ukraine) is ranked 51st&nbsp;in singles with graduate&nbsp;Aaron Osmond&nbsp;(U.K.) and freshman&nbsp;Tom van den Dungen&nbsp;(Netherlands) 16th&nbsp;in doubles. Kulish received an at-large bid to the ITA Cup in the fall with Osmond and van den Dungen going 16-6 in duals playing at number one.&nbsp;The 2024-25 season begins in September with the fall slate featuring several duals and open tournaments.&nbsp;

Lopers cap off memorable season with highest-ranking ever

Nebraska senior shortstop Billie Andrews was named a third-team All-American by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) on Wednesday. Andrews was recognized as an All-American for the second straight season, becoming the 10th player in program history to be a two-time All-American.

Andrews hit .383 this season with 10 doubles, two triples, 18 home runs and 45 RBIs. She led Nebraska in average, hits (67), extra-base hits (30), home runs, RBIs, runs (55), slugging percentage (.771) and on-base percentage (.460). Nationally, Andrews ranked 12th in home runs per game, 12th in runs per game and 21st in total bases.

Andrews’ senior season left a mark on the Nebraska season record book as she ranked third in slugging percentage, fourth in home runs, fifth in extra-base hits and seventh in runs scored. She was at her best against the top competition, batting .402 with nine home runs and 20 RBIs in 25 games against 2024 NCAA Tournament teams.

The Gretna native was also a first-team all-region and first-team All-Big Ten selection this season. She also earned a spot on the Big Ten All-Tournament team and was a two-time Big Ten Player of the Week.

Andrews ended her career as a two-time All-American, a three-time all-region selection and a four-time All-Big Ten pick. She is also a three-time academic all-district selection who is on the ballot for Academic All-America honors this season. Andrews was also Nebraska’s Female Student-Athlete of the Year in 2024 after being the Husker Female Athlete of the Year in 2022.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsNebraska senior shortstop Billie Andrews was named a third-team All-American by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) on Wednesday. Andrews was recognized as an All-American for the second straight season, becoming the 10th player in program history to be a two-time All-American.Andrews hit .383 this season with 10 doubles, two triples, 18 home runs and 45 RBIs. She led Nebraska in average, hits (67), extra-base hits (30), home runs, RBIs, runs (55), slugging percentage (.771) and on-base percentage (.460). Nationally, Andrews ranked 12th in home runs per game, 12th in runs per game and 21st in total bases.Andrews’ senior season left a mark on the Nebraska season record book as she ranked third in slugging percentage, fourth in home runs, fifth in extra-base hits and seventh in runs scored. She was at her best against the top competition, batting .402 with nine home runs and 20 RBIs in 25 games against 2024 NCAA Tournament teams.The Gretna native was also a first-team all-region and first-team All-Big Ten selection this season. She also earned a spot on the Big Ten All-Tournament team and was a two-time Big Ten Player of the Week.Andrews ended her career as a two-time All-American, a three-time all-region selection and a four-time All-Big Ten pick. She is also a three-time academic all-district selection who is on the ballot for Academic All-America honors this season. Andrews was also Nebraska’s Female Student-Athlete of the Year in 2024 after being the Husker Female Athlete of the Year in 2022.

Billie Andrews named NFCA All-American

(North Platte, Nebraska, May 29, 2024) – Visit North Platte and Airstream Ventures have partnered with Florida Prep Lacrosse to present the highly anticipated The North Platte Clash Showcase featuring Matt Rambo. This lacrosse college showcase is expected to draw hundreds of high school and middle school players from the Midwest.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This first-ever lacrosse event is headlined by Matt Rambo, a standout attacker and fan favorite in the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL). Known for his dynamic gameplay and engaging personality, Rambo has led teams to multiple championships, including two PLL titles with the Whipsnakes. He also excelled in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) with the Philadelphia Wings and earned international accolades with the U.S. box team.&nbsp;

Scheduled to take place on July 24th, at North Platte High School, the Clash Showcase promises to be a captivating collegiate showcase with over 30 college coaches in attendance with an estimated 500 lacrosse players. The event kicks off on Wednesday, July 24th and will run through Thursday, July 25th.&nbsp;

"Hosting this event in North Platte is a great opportunity to continue to grow the sport of lacrosse in the Midwest, as well as in the region," said Matt Rambo.&nbsp; "We're excited to host this tournament in partnership with Visit North Platte and we look forward to making this event one of our largest annual events for years to come."&nbsp;

Lacrosse enthusiasts and players alike are invited to witness top-tier talent and competition as participants vie for victory on the North Platte High School field. This event not only showcases the skills of the players but also serves as a celebration of the dynamic and growing lacrosse community.&nbsp;

“We are excited to host the North Platte Clash Showcase; in partnership with Florida Prep Lacrosse," said Lisa Burke, Executive Director, Visit North Platte. "We are super excited to bring this annual college show case to Nebraska to grow the sport of Lacrosse hosting players from all our neighboring Midwest States.”&nbsp;

For more information and to register, athletes and fans can visit <a href="https://www.visitnorthplatte.com/event/the-north-platte-clash-lacrosse-showcase/8241/" target="_blank">https://www.visitnorthplatte.com/event/the-north-platte-clash-lacrosse-showcase/8241/</a> .&nbsp;

A Nebraska Destination Marketing organization, it is the objective of Visit North Platte to enhance and promote a positive image of the communities in Lincoln County, to assist in the development, continuation and promotion of quality events, attractions, and amenities for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike, and to help ensure that the highest standards of customer service are practiced in our establishments. To help fulfill this mission, we partner with local hospitality businesses (hotels, restaurants, attractions, retailers, events, &amp; more) to provide visitors with current information, specials, and events details.&nbsp;

Airstream Ventures is a sports marketing and event company that delivers first-class, impactful events and opportunities that change communities and lives. Working now in nine communities, Airstream Ventures uses an approach that features the intersections of sports tourism, event creation and recruitment, television programming and revenue generation. Visit airstreamventures.com for additional information.  Airstream Ventures: Where partnerships connect with communities.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716991096038.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Visit North Platte(North Platte, Nebraska, May 29, 2024) – Visit North Platte and Airstream Ventures have partnered with Florida Prep Lacrosse to present the highly anticipated The North Platte Clash Showcase featuring Matt Rambo. This lacrosse college showcase is expected to draw hundreds of high school and middle school players from the Midwest.&nbsp;&nbsp;This first-ever lacrosse event is headlined by Matt Rambo, a standout attacker and fan favorite in the Premier Lacrosse League (PLL). Known for his dynamic gameplay and engaging personality, Rambo has led teams to multiple championships, including two PLL titles with the Whipsnakes. He also excelled in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) with the Philadelphia Wings and earned international accolades with the U.S. box team.&nbsp;Scheduled to take place on July 24th, at North Platte High School, the Clash Showcase promises to be a captivating collegiate showcase with over 30 college coaches in attendance with an estimated 500 lacrosse players. The event kicks off on Wednesday, July 24th and will run through Thursday, July 25th.&nbsp;"Hosting this event in North Platte is a great opportunity to continue to grow the sport of lacrosse in the Midwest, as well as in the region," said Matt Rambo.&nbsp; "We're excited to host this tournament in partnership with Visit North Platte and we look forward to making this event one of our largest annual events for years to come."&nbsp;Lacrosse enthusiasts and players alike are invited to witness top-tier talent and competition as participants vie for victory on the North Platte High School field. This event not only showcases the skills of the players but also serves as a celebration of the dynamic and growing lacrosse community.&nbsp;“We are excited to host the North Platte Clash Showcase; in partnership with Florida Prep Lacrosse," said Lisa Burke, Executive Director, Visit North Platte. "We are super excited to bring this annual college show case to Nebraska to grow the sport of Lacrosse hosting players from all our neighboring Midwest States.”&nbsp;For more information and to register, athletes and fans can visit <a href="https://www.visitnorthplatte.com/event/the-north-platte-clash-lacrosse-showcase/8241/" target="_blank">https://www.visitnorthplatte.com/event/the-north-platte-clash-lacrosse-showcase/8241/</a> .&nbsp;ABOUT VISIT NORTH PLATTE&nbsp;A Nebraska Destination Marketing organization, it is the objective of Visit North Platte to enhance and promote a positive image of the communities in Lincoln County, to assist in the development, continuation and promotion of quality events, attractions, and amenities for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike, and to help ensure that the highest standards of customer service are practiced in our establishments. To help fulfill this mission, we partner with local hospitality businesses (hotels, restaurants, attractions, retailers, events, &amp; more) to provide visitors with current information, specials, and events details.&nbsp;ABOUT AIRSTREAM VENTURES&nbsp;Airstream Ventures is a sports marketing and event company that delivers first-class, impactful events and opportunities that change communities and lives. Working now in nine communities, Airstream Ventures uses an approach that features the intersections of sports tourism, event creation and recruitment, television programming and revenue generation. Visit airstreamventures.com for additional information.  Airstream Ventures: Where partnerships connect with communities.&nbsp;

Visit North Platte to Unveil the Lacrosse College Showcase with Matt Ramb

North Platte, Neb. - North Platte's newest baseball franchise is under full swing with the North Platte 80's after months of planning.&nbsp;

The 80's got their season underway last night as they fell to the&nbsp;Tucson Saguaros, 13-10. The final game between the 80's and the Saguaros begins today at Noon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717002113917.jpeg" alt="North Platte 80's management and the North Platte Chamber cutting the ribbon (North Platte Post)" />
 <figcaption>North Platte 80's management and the North Platte Chamber cutting the ribbon (North Platte Post)</figcaption>
 </figure>North Platte, Neb. - North Platte's newest baseball franchise is under full swing with the North Platte 80's after months of planning.&nbsp;The 80's got their season underway last night as they fell to the&nbsp;Tucson Saguaros, 13-10. The final game between the 80's and the Saguaros begins today at Noon.

North Platte 80's get season underway with ribbon cutting

Lincoln, Neb. - Director of Athletics Troy Dannen announced Wednesday that Nebraska has signed four-time national champion Head Volleyball Coach John Cook to a new five-year contract.

The recently completed deal runs through Jan. 31, 2029, with Cook receiving an annual salary of $825,000 beginning on June 1. The new salary represents a $75,000 annual increase. Additionally, Cook will receive a retention bonus of $70,000 on July 1, 2024.

“We are fortunate to have John Cook leading our volleyball program,” Dannen said. “He is the most accomplished coach in the nation, and one of the top coaches in the history of American volleyball. John's expectations are for nothing less than excellence in each and every endeavor, and his record reflects that.

“His influence within the department, and the leadership he brings across our 24-sport program benefits Cornhusker athletics well beyond just the sport of volleyball. John's vision has been to establish Nebraska as a national leader in advancing and promoting the sport of volleyball, and this extension certainly represents the successful outcome of that vision.”

In addition to the annual salary, Cook is eligible to receive bonuses if his program meets certain levels of athletic achievement, and the contract also includes a deferred compensation agreement.

"I am very grateful to Troy and our administration for their support and confidence in our Husker volleyball program," Cook said. "When Troy and I talked about my contract, I proposed that instead of an annual escalating salary that some coaches do, it would mean a great deal to me if the Nebraska Athletic Department would consider supporting me in purchasing a horse out in central Nebraska that I've had my eye on. The horse, called No. 415, was born and bred at the famous Pitzer Ranch in Ericson and is a once-in-a-lifetime performance horse. He was purchased as a weanling by Mark Wray and then trained by the Wray family. Troy loved the idea and while they couldn't specifically write that into the contract, the retention bonus will be used for No. 415. I am honored that Troy was supportive of my idea and it means a lot to me. We are all looking forward to what should be an exciting 2024 season."

Since taking over the program in 2000, Cook has guided the Huskers to four NCAA Championships, 11 NCAA Semifinals appearances, nine Big 12 titles and four Big Ten titles. His teams have compiled a 689-100 record, owning the nation’s top winning percentage during his tenure. Cook is a three-time AVCA National Coach of the Year (2000, 2005, 2023) and three-time Big Ten Coach of the Year (2016, 2017, 2023). In 2017, Cook was inducted into the AVCA Hall of Fame.

In 2023, Cook coached a team with no seniors to the NCAA Final and a 33-2 final record. The Huskers won the Big Ten Championship, and Cook was named AVCA National Coach of the Year and Big Ten Coach of the Year. Cook did more for the growth of the sport of volleyball in 2023 than possibly any other year in his career. He embraced the challenge of having his Husker team play a volleyball match outdoors in a football stadium, which was an overwhelming success story as 92,003 packed Memorial Stadium for Volleyball Day in Nebraska on Aug. 30. The event gained worldwide attention as the crowd set a record for the largest ever to attend a women's sporting event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717000448141.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Story by UNL AthleticsLincoln, Neb. - Director of Athletics Troy Dannen announced Wednesday that Nebraska has signed four-time national champion Head Volleyball Coach John Cook to a new five-year contract.The recently completed deal runs through Jan. 31, 2029, with Cook receiving an annual salary of $825,000 beginning on June 1. The new salary represents a $75,000 annual increase. Additionally, Cook will receive a retention bonus of $70,000 on July 1, 2024.“We are fortunate to have John Cook leading our volleyball program,” Dannen said. “He is the most accomplished coach in the nation, and one of the top coaches in the history of American volleyball. John's expectations are for nothing less than excellence in each and every endeavor, and his record reflects that.“His influence within the department, and the leadership he brings across our 24-sport program benefits Cornhusker athletics well beyond just the sport of volleyball. John's vision has been to establish Nebraska as a national leader in advancing and promoting the sport of volleyball, and this extension certainly represents the successful outcome of that vision.”In addition to the annual salary, Cook is eligible to receive bonuses if his program meets certain levels of athletic achievement, and the contract also includes a deferred compensation agreement."I am very grateful to Troy and our administration for their support and confidence in our Husker volleyball program," Cook said. "When Troy and I talked about my contract, I proposed that instead of an annual escalating salary that some coaches do, it would mean a great deal to me if the Nebraska Athletic Department would consider supporting me in purchasing a horse out in central Nebraska that I've had my eye on. The horse, called No. 415, was born and bred at the famous Pitzer Ranch in Ericson and is a once-in-a-lifetime performance horse. He was purchased as a weanling by Mark Wray and then trained by the Wray family. Troy loved the idea and while they couldn't specifically write that into the contract, the retention bonus will be used for No. 415. I am honored that Troy was supportive of my idea and it means a lot to me. We are all looking forward to what should be an exciting 2024 season."Since taking over the program in 2000, Cook has guided the Huskers to four NCAA Championships, 11 NCAA Semifinals appearances, nine Big 12 titles and four Big Ten titles. His teams have compiled a 689-100 record, owning the nation’s top winning percentage during his tenure. Cook is a three-time AVCA National Coach of the Year (2000, 2005, 2023) and three-time Big Ten Coach of the Year (2016, 2017, 2023). In 2017, Cook was inducted into the AVCA Hall of Fame.In 2023, Cook coached a team with no seniors to the NCAA Final and a 33-2 final record. The Huskers won the Big Ten Championship, and Cook was named AVCA National Coach of the Year and Big Ten Coach of the Year. Cook did more for the growth of the sport of volleyball in 2023 than possibly any other year in his career. He embraced the challenge of having his Husker team play a volleyball match outdoors in a football stadium, which was an overwhelming success story as 92,003 packed Memorial Stadium for Volleyball Day in Nebraska on Aug. 30. The event gained worldwide attention as the crowd set a record for the largest ever to attend a women's sporting event.

Nebraska Announces New Contract for John Cook

Story by Buffalo Bill Rodeo Communications

North Platte, Neb. –May 28, 2024 – The leadership for the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte not only produces the rodeo but has experience in the competition arena as well.

Levi Fisher and Justin Thompson, chairman and vice-chairman respectively, are professional rodeo contestants who are putting their backgrounds as rodeo cowboys to good use.

Fisher is a tie-down roper who still competes and lives in Hershey. Thompson is a former steer wrestler who lives in North Platte.

Together, they lead the Buffalo Bill Rodeo team.

Fisher grew up in Crawford and didn’t begin competition till a senior in high school. He attended Chadron State College, competing collegiately, then after graduation, worked at a feedlot near Kearney, a bank in St. Paul, Neb., a bank in North Platte, and in 2005, he and a group started a branch of the Equitable Bank in North Platte. Fisher serves as community bank president of Equitable.

Thompson grew up in North Platte, the son of Jerry Thompson, DVM. He loved high school wrestling and football; rodeo was never on the radar.

But while a student at Colby (Kan.) Community College, the college rodeo coach asked if he’d like to give steer wrestling a try.

He did, and loved it. He competed collegiately at Colby, then at Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva.

After college, he competed professionally from 1996 to 2008, traveling across the nation.

In 2008, when he tore his ACL, he opened up his insurance agency in North Platte, and his rodeo competition days were over.

Fisher never quit rodeoing, although there were years he didn’t rodeo much while he hauled he and wife Keri’s two daughters to junior high and high school rodeos. An injured knee and broken leg also slowed him down, but he’s still competing, “so long as the girls leave me a horse,” he joked.

Thompson turfed his last steer in 2009; he and wife Missy have three children, ages 18, 16 and 11. Their children aren’t involved in rodeo but ride and work with the family’s cattle herd.

Being a contestant, and now a rodeo committee member, is a benefit, both men think.

“You’ve been to other rodeos,” Fisher said, “and you’ve seen other ways of doing things.”

Thompson agrees. “We’ve been on the contestants’ side of it, and you know the needs there. It helps us see deeper into it. You see how much difference the livestock makes, and the purse money comes into play, too.”

Fisher and Thompson are similar in how they deal with business, they believe.

“The team atmosphere, the work ethic, the personal accountability, that all works in a business, and in a rodeo committee too,” Fisher said. “It’s a business mindset. You definitely have to understand a profit and loss statement. The rodeo has to pay for itself or it’s not going to be viable long-term.”

Both men appreciate how hard fellow committee members work.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“There’s a lot of experience with everyone on the committee,” Fisher said.

“We have people on the committee who look at things differently, because they come from different industries. It helps with all the things that need to get done.

“We have a fantastic committee that gets things done.”

Fisher has been part of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo committee since 2007; Thompson served on the NebraskalandDays board from 2013-2017, then became a rodeo board member.

This year’s Buffalo Bill Rodeo is June 12-15 at the Wild West Arena in North Platte. Shows begin at 8 pm nightly at the Wild West Arena in North Platte.

Story by Buffalo Bill Rodeo CommunicationsNorth Platte, Neb. –May 28, 2024 – The leadership for the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte not only produces the rodeo but has experience in the competition arena as well.Levi Fisher and Justin Thompson, chairman and vice-chairman respectively, are professional rodeo contestants who are putting their backgrounds as rodeo cowboys to good use.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716984051469.jpeg" alt="Levi Fisher is in his first year of chairing the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte, Neb. He is a PRCA tie-down roper. " />
 <figcaption>Levi Fisher is in his first year of chairing the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte, Neb. He is a PRCA tie-down roper. </figcaption>
 </figure>Fisher is a tie-down roper who still competes and lives in Hershey. Thompson is a former steer wrestler who lives in North Platte.Together, they lead the Buffalo Bill Rodeo team.Fisher grew up in Crawford and didn’t begin competition till a senior in high school. He attended Chadron State College, competing collegiately, then after graduation, worked at a feedlot near Kearney, a bank in St. Paul, Neb., a bank in North Platte, and in 2005, he and a group started a branch of the Equitable Bank in North Platte. Fisher serves as community bank president of Equitable.Thompson grew up in North Platte, the son of Jerry Thompson, DVM. He loved high school wrestling and football; rodeo was never on the radar.But while a student at Colby (Kan.) Community College, the college rodeo coach asked if he’d like to give steer wrestling a try.He did, and loved it. He competed collegiately at Colby, then at Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva.After college, he competed professionally from 1996 to 2008, traveling across the nation.In 2008, when he tore his ACL, he opened up his insurance agency in North Platte, and his rodeo competition days were over.Fisher never quit rodeoing, although there were years he didn’t rodeo much while he hauled he and wife Keri’s two daughters to junior high and high school rodeos. An injured knee and broken leg also slowed him down, but he’s still competing, “so long as the girls leave me a horse,” he joked.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716984114503.jpeg" alt="Justin Thompson is vice-chair of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte. He is a former PRCA steer wrestler." />
 <figcaption>Justin Thompson is vice-chair of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in North Platte. He is a former PRCA steer wrestler.</figcaption>
 </figure>Thompson turfed his last steer in 2009; he and wife Missy have three children, ages 18, 16 and 11. Their children aren’t involved in rodeo but ride and work with the family’s cattle herd.Being a contestant, and now a rodeo committee member, is a benefit, both men think.“You’ve been to other rodeos,” Fisher said, “and you’ve seen other ways of doing things.”Thompson agrees. “We’ve been on the contestants’ side of it, and you know the needs there. It helps us see deeper into it. You see how much difference the livestock makes, and the purse money comes into play, too.”Fisher and Thompson are similar in how they deal with business, they believe.“The team atmosphere, the work ethic, the personal accountability, that all works in a business, and in a rodeo committee too,” Fisher said. “It’s a business mindset. You definitely have to understand a profit and loss statement. The rodeo has to pay for itself or it’s not going to be viable long-term.”Both men appreciate how hard fellow committee members work.&nbsp;&nbsp;“There’s a lot of experience with everyone on the committee,” Fisher said.“We have people on the committee who look at things differently, because they come from different industries. It helps with all the things that need to get done.“We have a fantastic committee that gets things done.”Fisher has been part of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo committee since 2007; Thompson served on the NebraskalandDays board from 2013-2017, then became a rodeo board member.This year’s Buffalo Bill Rodeo is June 12-15 at the Wild West Arena in North Platte. Shows begin at 8 pm nightly at the Wild West Arena in North Platte.Tickets range in price from $11-$24 and can be purchased online at NebraskalandDays.com, at the NebraskalandDays office, and at the gate.For more information and a complete schedule of NebraskalandDays events, visit the website or call&nbsp;the office at 308.532.7939.

From Cowboy to Committee

North Platte, Ne - North Platte is a special place for PRCA rodeo clown Justin Rumford.

It’s where his life changed and he followed a totally different path, to stardom as a rodeo clown instead of a cowboy.

The Kansas native, who now lives in Ponca City, Okla., grew up in rodeo and competed in high school and college, with big plans to be a professional steer wrestler and qualify for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, the pinnacle of pro rodeo.

But in North Platte, he had what he calls his “mental breakdown.”

It was 2008 and he was steer wrestling full time, nationwide, with the plans to be one of the top fifteen steer wrestlers in the nation at the end of the season so he could compete for a world title at the National Finals.

In North Platte, he broke the barrier to add a ten second penalty to his time, which would have won him first place.

He was out of money - $36 to his name, a wife at home, and his dreams were dashed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716409688266.jpeg" alt="Justin Rumford jokes around at the 2021 Buffalo Bill Rodeo. The award-winning rodeo clown credits North Platte as the place where he began the transition from being a fulltime rodeo cowboy to rodeo clowning. Photo by Don Christner" />
 <figcaption>Justin Rumford jokes around at the 2021 Buffalo Bill Rodeo. The award-winning rodeo clown credits North Platte as the place where he began the transition from being a fulltime rodeo cowboy to rodeo clowning. Photo by Don Christner</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by Ruth NicolausNorth Platte, Ne - North Platte is a special place for PRCA rodeo clown Justin Rumford.It’s where his life changed and he followed a totally different path, to stardom as a rodeo clown instead of a cowboy.The Kansas native, who now lives in Ponca City, Okla., grew up in rodeo and competed in high school and college, with big plans to be a professional steer wrestler and qualify for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, the pinnacle of pro rodeo.But in North Platte, he had what he calls his “mental breakdown.”It was 2008 and he was steer wrestling full time, nationwide, with the plans to be one of the top fifteen steer wrestlers in the nation at the end of the season so he could compete for a world title at the National Finals.But it wasn’t to be.In North Platte, he broke the barrier to add a ten second penalty to his time, which would have won him first place.He was out of money - $36 to his name, a wife at home, and his dreams were dashed.“I was sitting on the bucking chutes at noon, after slack, all by myself,” he said. He told his traveling partners Shane Henderson and Dru Melvin to go on to the next rodeo without him. He was done.“I had no ride home, nowhere to go, and I was about to cry.”That’s when his destiny began to change.Stock contractor Bennie Beutler walked up and said, “what the hell’s wrong with you?” Rumford told him, “I didn’t make it. I’m going to go home and get a job.”Beutler, who provides the bucking horses and bulls for the Buffalo Bill Rodeo, offered him a job, driving truck and livestock to rodeos, with the chance to continue to steer wrestle at the rodeos he worked.So he worked fulltime for Beutler, steer wrestling on the side.He worked for Beutler three years, hauling livestock to Beutler rodeos across the nation: not only North Platte, but Burwell, Phillipsburg, Kan., Tucson, Ariz., Austin, Texas, Greeley, Colo., and more.In 2010, he worked as clown at a bull riding in Pretty Prairie, Kan., and it began to dawn on him: he could make a living as a clown. Rumford has always had a quick wit and sense of humor, but he never wanted to clown.He had made connections with rodeo committees and other stock contractors as he worked for Bennie Beutler, and he asked them for jobs.Rumford fit the clown jobs in between working for Beutler at their rodeos, until one day somebody said, “you’re going to have to decide if you want to do this rodeo clown deal, or work for Bennie, because we’re all finding you jobs and you’re turning them down.”So Rumford told Beutler he was quitting.“He did not take it well,” Rumford said. “He told me, if you’re going to tell jokes, get in the truck and tell jokes on the CB, because you’re not quitting.”But Rumford did, and he’s never looked back.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716409768943.jpeg" alt="Justin Rumford returns to bring the laughs to North Platte’s Buffalo Bill Rodeo June 12-15. The Oklahoma rodeo clown, a former steer wrestler, has not only clowned the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in the past, but has competed at it and worked for the stock contractor there as well. Photo by Jackie Jensen. Photo by Jackie Jensen" />
 <figcaption>Justin Rumford returns to bring the laughs to North Platte’s Buffalo Bill Rodeo June 12-15. The Oklahoma rodeo clown, a former steer wrestler, has not only clowned the Buffalo Bill Rodeo in the past, but has competed at it and worked for the stock contractor there as well. Photo by Jackie Jensen. Photo by Jackie Jensen</figcaption>
 </figure>“I knew these committee members, and they knew I was hilarious, because I was always cracking jokes. When I called and told them I was going to switch to clowning, I had more of an advantage, because they knew who I was.”Rumford quickly moved into fulltime work as a rodeo clown, and he’s won two of the PRCA’s most prestigious awards for his category: the Clown of the Year ten times, and the Coors Man in the Can (for barrelmen) three times.It all comes back to the Buffalo Bill Rodeo.“North Platte is where I thought the end of the road was,” he said. It was “God’s timing,” he said.“It’s a wild story.”Rumford will entertain during each night of the Buffalo Bill Rodeo June 12-15. Shows begin at 8 pm nightly and are held at the Wild West Arena in North Platte.Tickets range in price from $11-$24 and can be purchased online at NebraskalandDays.com, at the NebraskalandDays office, and at the gate.For more information and a complete schedule of NebraskalandDays events, visit the website or call&nbsp;the office at 308.532.7939.

Sports