Bennington 76, Mount Michael Benedictine 7

Columbus Lakeview 42, Scotus Central Catholic 14

Creighton Preparatory School 46, Omaha Benson 0

Hastings St. Cecilia 47, Doniphan-Trumbull 19

Lincoln Southeast 49, South Sioux City 15

North Bend Central 52, Archbishop Bergan 20

Oakland-Craig 52, Logan View/Scribner-Snyder (LVSS) 15

Adams Central 41, Fairbury 6Amherst 44, Hershey 13Arthur County 60, Wallace 8Ashland-Greenwood 49, Platteview 21Auburn 34, Nebraska City 32Aurora 41, Central City 27Bennington 76, Mount Michael Benedictine 7Bishop Neumann 12, Aquinas Catholic 0Chadron 28, McCook 21Chase County 35, Valentine 0Columbus Lakeview 42, Scotus Central Catholic 14Creighton Preparatory School 46, Omaha Benson 0Crete 42, Omaha Buena Vista 0Douglas County West 46, Arlington 12Elkhorn North 35, Blair 7Elkhorn South 10, Omaha North 0Fillmore Central 43, Wood River 8Garden County 56, Creek Valley 0Gothenburg 22, Broken Bow 21Grand Island 79, Omaha Northwest 6Gretna 31, Lincoln East 14Hastings 21, Gering 14Hastings St. Cecilia 47, Doniphan-Trumbull 19Kearney 35, Norfolk 7Kearney Catholic 44, Gibbon 6Lincoln Christian 48, Syracuse 42Lincoln Lutheran 27, Milford 20Lincoln North Star 38, Columbus 20Lincoln Southeast 49, South Sioux City 15Louisville 24, David City 7Malcolm 16, Wilber-Clatonia 14Meridian 41, Sterling 28Millard South 65, Lincoln High 0Millard West 56, Omaha Bryan 21Minden 12, Cozad 7Mitchell 58, Gordon-Rushville 20Norfolk Catholic 41, Cedar Catholic 0Norris 42, Lincoln Pius X 12North Bend Central 52, Archbishop Bergan 20ONeill 41, Wayne 14Oakland-Craig 52, Logan View/Scribner-Snyder (LVSS) 15Ogallala 28, Holdrege 14Omaha Central 48, Omaha Burke 0Ord 35, Centura 7Papillion-LaVista 41, North Platte 0Pawnee City 52, Dorchester 25Pierce 53, West Point-Beemer 19Plattsmouth 48, Ralston 7Ponca 14, West Holt 7Potter-Dix 51, South Platte 15Raymond Central 26, Falls City 21Santee 1, Elba 0 (Forfeit)Scottsbluff 66, Lexington 7Seward 35, Gretna East 31Sidney 56, Alliance 20Sioux County 65, Minatare 0Stuart 59, Hampton 46Sumner-Eddyville-Miller 49, Shelton 7Tri County 61, Centennial 14Wahoo 54, Schuyler 0Wauneta-Palisade 63, Brady 52Waverly 49, Lincoln Northwest 0Wilcox-Hildreth 66, Harvard 16York 16, Northwest 14

Area Football scores for October 20th

KEARNEY, Neb - Nebraska State Cross Country was held in Kearney on Friday. Area runners did very well. North Platte St. Patricks' Boys team and Gothenburg's Boys team won Team Gold Medals. Ogallala's Lindee Henning took first place in the Class C Girls, and Perkins County's Mason McGreer won the Class D Boys.&nbsp;

FULL RESULTS from 2023 State Cross Country Meet

48   Jack Knapp                 9 North Platte                           35    5:18   50   11:01 17:20.5  5:35 

68   Rian Teets                12 North Platte                           34    5:17   60   11:12 17:53.5  5:46 

40   Jada Hothan               11 North Platte                           34    6:26   42   13:26 21:01.3  6:46 

1.   Gothenburg                              (  17:19.31  1:09:17.25   1:17.23)

     2   Tyler Hetz                 9 Gothenburg                             17    5:26    3   10:56 16:35.9  5:21 

     8   Parker Graves          12 Gothenburg                             21    5:27   12   11:06 17:20.8  5:35 

     9   Haven Hauxwell      10 Chase County                           24    5:28   19   11:14 17:21.9  5:36 

    15   Ethan Olsen             12 Gothenburg                             30    5:30   20   11:15 17:27.5  5:38 

    25   Yahriel Gaeta          11 Gothenburg                              9    5:24   25   11:21 17:53.2  5:46 

    37   Jackson Hansen      11 Broken Bow                             23    5:28   27   11:22 18:08.7  5:51 

    44   Nathan Sager          12 Gothenburg                             32    5:31   39   11:27 18:18.3  5:54 

    46   Sawyer Laflan          10 Ogallala                               76    5:41   49   11:40 18:22.1  5:55 

    51   Chase Moorhead    12 Hershey                                67    5:40   60   11:46 18:24.4  5:56 

    54   Jordan Arensdorf    11 Hershey                                92    5:47   76   11:57 18:30.1  5:58 

    55   Evan Pelzer               9 Gothenburg                             73    5:41   47   11:39 18:32.4  5:59 

    56   Josiah Wilkinson      11 McCook                                 65    5:39   59   11:45 18:34.7  5:59 

9.   McCook                                  (  23:21.21  1:33:24.87   4:31.23)

11.   Broken Bow                              (  23:32.08  1:34:08.34   2:23.06)

1   Lindee Henning            12 Ogallala                                1    5:48    1   12:00 19:33.9  6:18 

  9   Emma Cappel               10 McCook                                  7    6:22    9   13:28 21:12.1  6:50 

17   1  384 Ashlyn Schauda             9 Broken Bow                             28    6:42   22   14:01 21:51.5  7:03 

21   Adeline Pinkston           9 Gothenburg                             13    6:28   20   13:51 22:02.8  7:06 

34   Kiarra Jonas               9 Gothenburg                             22    6:35   34   14:22 22:39.8  7:18 

48   2  438 Isabella Renner           12 McCook                                 37    6:46   32   14:21 22:56.7  7:24 

58   Brecken Gale              10 McCook                                 38    6:46   43   14:30 23:33.1  7:35 

68   Lauren Henning            12 Ogallala                               44    6:48   52   14:36 23:48.8  7:40 

71   Anette Guevara             9 Broken Bow                             88    7:11   78   15:06 23:56.8  7:43 

75   Makinley Tobey            12 Broken Bow                             81    7:07   82   15:13 24:05.

78   Genesis Guevara           10 Broken Bow                             85    7:09   70   15:02 24:14.6  7:49 

87   Gaby Staples              11 Broken Bow                             91    7:13   85   15:24 24:43.5  7:58 

100   Megan Miller              11 McCook                                103    7:29   99   16:04 25:43.3  8:17 

105   Maryann Kassner Macfee    11 McCook                                108    7:46  106   16:44 26:51.0  8:39 

111   Jenna Wilkinson           10 McCook                                115    7:55  113   17:17 27:44.6  8:56 

113   Jaycee Staples            10 Broken Bow                            113    7:52  112   17:17 28:12.3  9:05 

North Platte St. Pat's (Class D Boys State Champions)

1.   North Platte St. Patrick's              (  17:25.66    52:17.00   0:27.39)

5.   Perkins County                          (  17:54.06    53:42.19   3:14.42)

1   Mason McGreer             11 Perkins County                         11    5:28    1   10:54 16:46.6  5:24 

2   Elijah Goodell             9 Perkins County                         14    5:29    4   10:57 16:54.7  5:27 

3   Jarrett Miles             12 North Platte St. Patrick's             10    5:28    3   10:55 17:07.6  5:31 

9   Porter Connick            11 North Platte St. Patrick's             37    5:37   16   11:23 17:34.6  5:40 

10   Colton Ham                 9 North Platte St. Patrick's             38    5:38   17   11:24 17:34.9  5:40 

11   Dimitri Pettit            10 North Platte St. Patrick's             39    5:38   18   11:24 17:36.8  5:41 

16   Kael Garrett              10 Medicine Valley                        32    5:35   24   11:29 17:46.4  5:44 

40   Logan Recoy               12 South Loup (Callaway/Arnold)           16    5:30   28   11:31 18:44.9  6:03 

51   Zeke Christiansen         12 Garden County                          26    5:33   33   11:44 19:03.8  6:09 

61   Kyle Finney               12 Mullen                                 50    5:42   63   12:13 19:18.1  6:13 

82   Josiah Coleman            10 South Loup (Callaway/Arnold)           82    5:56   83   12:30 19:49.7  6:23 

89  Brock Tines               11 Perkins County                        117    6:23  110   12:57 20:01.0  6:27 

115   Jacob Hatcher             11 Perkins County                        129    6:43  123   13:47 21:04.0  6:47 

 5.    54  Mullen                                  (  22:10.27  1:06:30.82   2:04.74)

8.    78  Wallace                                 (  22:49.62  1:08:28.87   2:06.51)

16.   141  Brady                                   (  24:45.01  1:14:15.04   4:25.74)

 5   Peyton Paxton             11 Mullen                                 10    6:26    9   13:22 20:47.4  6:42 

 11   Ashley Robertson          11 Wallace                                18    6:36   12   13:38 21:34.8  6:57 

 27   Zoe Johnson                9 Brady                                  34    6:48   28   14:12 22:33.5  7:16 

 33   Harper Andersen            9 Mullen                                 44    6:54   43   14:35 22:51.5  7:22 

 34   Adalena Hampton            9 Mullen                                 66    7:01   48   14:39 22:52.1  7:22 

 35   Riley Hegland              9 Mullen                                 72    7:04   50   14:43 22:54.1  7:23 

 43   Dajana Garrison           12 Wallace                                55    6:59   57   14:47 23:12.9  7:29 

 49  Ella Cool                 11 South Loup (Callaway/Arnold)           50    6:57   51   14:43 23:22.

 81   Elliana Robertson         10 Wallace                                95    7:19   94   15:37 24:32.7  7:54 

 87   Jocelyn Franzen           11 Brady                                  85    7:13   92   15:32 24:42.5  7:58 

 91   Ivy Tullis                11 South Loup (Callaway/Arnold)           98    7:20   87   15:25 24:48.

106   Violet Gentry              9 Brady                                 115    8:02  111   17:10 26:59.2  8:42 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697840253724.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KEARNEY, Neb - Nebraska State Cross Country was held in Kearney on Friday. Area runners did very well. North Platte St. Patricks' Boys team and Gothenburg's Boys team won Team Gold Medals. Ogallala's Lindee Henning took first place in the Class C Girls, and Perkins County's Mason McGreer won the Class D Boys.&nbsp;<h2>FULL RESULTS from 2023 State Cross Country Meet</h2>Class A BoysNorth Platte Boys (Class A)Overall Finish48 Jack Knapp 9 North Platte 35 5:18 50 11:01 17:20.5 5:35 68 Rian Teets 12 North Platte 34 5:17 60 11:12 17:53.5 5:46 Class A Girls40 Jada Hothan 11 North Platte 34 6:26 42 13:26 21:01.3 6:46 Class C BoysGothenburg (Class C) State Champs1. Gothenburg ( 17:19.31 1:09:17.25 1:17.23)Overall Finish 2 Tyler Hetz 9 Gothenburg 17 5:26 3 10:56 16:35.9 5:21 8 Parker Graves 12 Gothenburg 21 5:27 12 11:06 17:20.8 5:35 9 Haven Hauxwell 10 Chase County 24 5:28 19 11:14 17:21.9 5:36 15 Ethan Olsen 12 Gothenburg 30 5:30 20 11:15 17:27.5 5:38 25 Yahriel Gaeta 11 Gothenburg 9 5:24 25 11:21 17:53.2 5:46 37 Jackson Hansen 11 Broken Bow 23 5:28 27 11:22 18:08.7 5:51 44 Nathan Sager 12 Gothenburg 32 5:31 39 11:27 18:18.3 5:54 46 Sawyer Laflan 10 Ogallala 76 5:41 49 11:40 18:22.1 5:55 51 Chase Moorhead 12 Hershey 67 5:40 60 11:46 18:24.4 5:56 54 Jordan Arensdorf 11 Hershey 92 5:47 76 11:57 18:30.1 5:58 55 Evan Pelzer 9 Gothenburg 73 5:41 47 11:39 18:32.4 5:59 56 Josiah Wilkinson 11 McCook 65 5:39 59 11:45 18:34.7 5:59 Class C GirlsTeam9. McCook ( 23:21.21 1:33:24.87 4:31.23)11. Broken Bow ( 23:32.08 1:34:08.34 2:23.06)Overall Finish1 Lindee Henning 12 Ogallala 1 5:48 1 12:00 19:33.9 6:18 9 Emma Cappel 10 McCook 7 6:22 9 13:28 21:12.1 6:50 17 1 384 Ashlyn Schauda 9 Broken Bow 28 6:42 22 14:01 21:51.5 7:03 21 Adeline Pinkston 9 Gothenburg 13 6:28 20 13:51 22:02.8 7:06 34 Kiarra Jonas 9 Gothenburg 22 6:35 34 14:22 22:39.8 7:18 48 2 438 Isabella Renner 12 McCook 37 6:46 32 14:21 22:56.7 7:24 58 Brecken Gale 10 McCook 38 6:46 43 14:30 23:33.1 7:35 68 Lauren Henning 12 Ogallala 44 6:48 52 14:36 23:48.8 7:40 71 Anette Guevara 9 Broken Bow 88 7:11 78 15:06 23:56.8 7:43 75 Makinley Tobey 12 Broken Bow 81 7:07 82 15:13 24:05.78 Genesis Guevara 10 Broken Bow 85 7:09 70 15:02 24:14.6 7:49 87 Gaby Staples 11 Broken Bow 91 7:13 85 15:24 24:43.5 7:58 100 Megan Miller 11 McCook 103 7:29 99 16:04 25:43.3 8:17 105 Maryann Kassner Macfee 11 McCook 108 7:46 106 16:44 26:51.0 8:39 111 Jenna Wilkinson 10 McCook 115 7:55 113 17:17 27:44.6 8:56 113 Jaycee Staples 10 Broken Bow 113 7:52 112 17:17 28:12.3 9:05 Class D BoysTeamNorth Platte St. Pat's (Class D Boys State Champions)1. North Platte St. Patrick's ( 17:25.66 52:17.00 0:27.39)5. Perkins County ( 17:54.06 53:42.19 3:14.42)Overall Finish1 Mason McGreer 11 Perkins County 11 5:28 1 10:54 16:46.6 5:24 2 Elijah Goodell 9 Perkins County 14 5:29 4 10:57 16:54.7 5:27 3 Jarrett Miles 12 North Platte St. Patrick's 10 5:28 3 10:55 17:07.6 5:31 9 Porter Connick 11 North Platte St. Patrick's 37 5:37 16 11:23 17:34.6 5:40 10 Colton Ham 9 North Platte St. Patrick's 38 5:38 17 11:24 17:34.9 5:40 11 Dimitri Pettit 10 North Platte St. Patrick's 39 5:38 18 11:24 17:36.8 5:41 16 Kael Garrett 10 Medicine Valley 32 5:35 24 11:29 17:46.4 5:44 40 Logan Recoy 12 South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 16 5:30 28 11:31 18:44.9 6:03 51 Zeke Christiansen 12 Garden County 26 5:33 33 11:44 19:03.8 6:09 61 Kyle Finney 12 Mullen 50 5:42 63 12:13 19:18.1 6:13 82 Josiah Coleman 10 South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 82 5:56 83 12:30 19:49.7 6:23 89 Brock Tines 11 Perkins County 117 6:23 110 12:57 20:01.0 6:27 115 Jacob Hatcher 11 Perkins County 129 6:43 123 13:47 21:04.0 6:47 Class D GirlsTEAM 5. 54 Mullen ( 22:10.27 1:06:30.82 2:04.74)8. 78 Wallace ( 22:49.62 1:08:28.87 2:06.51)16. 141 Brady ( 24:45.01 1:14:15.04 4:25.74)Overall Finish 5 Peyton Paxton 11 Mullen 10 6:26 9 13:22 20:47.4 6:42 11 Ashley Robertson 11 Wallace 18 6:36 12 13:38 21:34.8 6:57 27 Zoe Johnson 9 Brady 34 6:48 28 14:12 22:33.5 7:16 33 Harper Andersen 9 Mullen 44 6:54 43 14:35 22:51.5 7:22 34 Adalena Hampton 9 Mullen 66 7:01 48 14:39 22:52.1 7:22 35 Riley Hegland 9 Mullen 72 7:04 50 14:43 22:54.1 7:23 43 Dajana Garrison 12 Wallace 55 6:59 57 14:47 23:12.9 7:29 49 Ella Cool 11 South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 50 6:57 51 14:43 23:22. 81 Elliana Robertson 10 Wallace 95 7:19 94 15:37 24:32.7 7:54 87 Jocelyn Franzen 11 Brady 85 7:13 92 15:32 24:42.5 7:58 91 Ivy Tullis 11 South Loup (Callaway/Arnold) 98 7:20 87 15:25 24:48.106 Violet Gentry 9 Brady 115 8:02 111 17:10 26:59.2 8:42

St. Pat's, Gothenburg win Team State Titles at State Cross Country, Ogallala & Perkins County bring home individual Gold Medals

Coach Rhule's  practice report

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697810283192.png" alt="D2 Bracket" />
 <figcaption>D2 Bracket</figcaption>
 </figure>

NSAA D2 Football playoff bracket

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697810200764.png" alt="D1 Bracket" />
 <figcaption>D1 Bracket</figcaption>
 </figure>

NSAA D1 Football playoff bracket

Story by NPCC Athletic Communications

The North Platte Community College volleyball team closed out the regular season with a hard-fought match against regional opponent Central Community College Thursday evening in Columbus. NPCC pushed the Raiders to a fifth set but ultimately fell 3-2.

The Knights took the lead early on in set one and managed to remain a point or two ahead until an ace by Central tied the game 10-10. The Knights pulled out in front again on the next volley and pushed past the Raiders for a 25-22 win.

The teams traded points back and forth in the second set until back-to-back aces on the part of the Raiders allowed them to take the lead. With a newfound confidence, Central went on a five-point run, widening the gap, 16-7. The Knights answered with a five-point run of their own. A time out by Central curbed the momentum and allowed the Raiders to close out the frame 25-18.

Set three was marked by eight ties and three lead changes as both sides fought to distance themselves. Central finally pulled away 13-12 and used a four-point run to stay just out of reach. The Raiders would take the set 25-22.

North Platte snatched the lead to start the fourth set and held a five-point advantage at 11-6. Central gradually chipped away at the deficit until tying the game 14-14. The teams remained neck-and-neck from then on as they raced to the finish line. They tied again 22-22, 24-24 and 25-25 before the Knights retook the lead and stole the win 27-25.

The fifth set also came down to the wire. The Raiders grabbed the lead initially but were overtaken by the Knights 8-7. Central bounced back, reclaimed the lead for a point then dropped behind again. A block by the Raiders brought the score to 14-14. Central subsequently claimed a 16-14 victory.

Vanessa Wood led the offense for the Knights with 22 kills in the match. Jaelyn Dicke followed with 18 kills, and Sam Riggles put down nine. Aubrey Grant came in with 28 assists while Elsie Ottun recorded 26. Defensively, Wood had 25 digs, and EmiLee Walnofer tallied 23.

“When we are in system, we are hard to defend, and we are able to spread the ball around,” said NPCC Volleyball Head Coach Alexa McCall. “We have to be able to control the ball more on our side to put us in those positions more often. It’s also disappointing when you’re in a position to win and can’t finish the job. Lucky for us, records start over now, and we still have some great opportunities this week and will work hard in practice to prepare us the best way we can.”

The Knights end the regular season 13-20.&nbsp;

They will host Southeast Community College next week in the opening round of the NJCAA Region 9 Postseason Tournament, entering the tourney as the #2 seed. First serve is at 6 p.m. Wednesday in the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium.

The winner will play Central Community College at 3 p.m. Oct. 28 in Columbus.

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsThe North Platte Community College volleyball team closed out the regular season with a hard-fought match against regional opponent Central Community College Thursday evening in Columbus. NPCC pushed the Raiders to a fifth set but ultimately fell 3-2.The Knights took the lead early on in set one and managed to remain a point or two ahead until an ace by Central tied the game 10-10. The Knights pulled out in front again on the next volley and pushed past the Raiders for a 25-22 win.The teams traded points back and forth in the second set until back-to-back aces on the part of the Raiders allowed them to take the lead. With a newfound confidence, Central went on a five-point run, widening the gap, 16-7. The Knights answered with a five-point run of their own. A time out by Central curbed the momentum and allowed the Raiders to close out the frame 25-18.Set three was marked by eight ties and three lead changes as both sides fought to distance themselves. Central finally pulled away 13-12 and used a four-point run to stay just out of reach. The Raiders would take the set 25-22.North Platte snatched the lead to start the fourth set and held a five-point advantage at 11-6. Central gradually chipped away at the deficit until tying the game 14-14. The teams remained neck-and-neck from then on as they raced to the finish line. They tied again 22-22, 24-24 and 25-25 before the Knights retook the lead and stole the win 27-25.The fifth set also came down to the wire. The Raiders grabbed the lead initially but were overtaken by the Knights 8-7. Central bounced back, reclaimed the lead for a point then dropped behind again. A block by the Raiders brought the score to 14-14. Central subsequently claimed a 16-14 victory.Vanessa Wood led the offense for the Knights with 22 kills in the match. Jaelyn Dicke followed with 18 kills, and Sam Riggles put down nine. Aubrey Grant came in with 28 assists while Elsie Ottun recorded 26. Defensively, Wood had 25 digs, and EmiLee Walnofer tallied 23.“When we are in system, we are hard to defend, and we are able to spread the ball around,” said NPCC Volleyball Head Coach Alexa McCall. “We have to be able to control the ball more on our side to put us in those positions more often. It’s also disappointing when you’re in a position to win and can’t finish the job. Lucky for us, records start over now, and we still have some great opportunities this week and will work hard in practice to prepare us the best way we can.”The Knights end the regular season 13-20.&nbsp;They will host Southeast Community College next week in the opening round of the NJCAA Region 9 Postseason Tournament, entering the tourney as the #2 seed. First serve is at 6 p.m. Wednesday in the McDonald-Belton Gymnasium.The winner will play Central Community College at 3 p.m. Oct. 28 in Columbus.

Knights Volleyball ends regular season with loss to Raiders

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Behind finishes from Eleanor Dale and Sadie Waite, the Nebraska soccer team defeated Purdue 2-0 on Thursday night in front of 1,211 fans at Hibner Stadium.&nbsp;

The victory marked the Huskers fifth-straight conference win as they are currently tied for second in the conference standings. Additionally, tonight's game moved NU to 12-2-3 on the season and the Big Red’s six conference victories is the most since 2013, when the team won both the regular season title and the conference championship.

In the 13th minute, Dale scored her nation-leading 22nd goal of the season off assists from Gwen Lane and Sadie Waite. Waite sent a cross to Lane who passed the ball down the pitch to Dale who gathered and scored into the top right corner of the net.

The Huskers held the Boilermakers scoreless in the first half, while also leading in shots (9-6), shots on goal (7-1) and corners (5-1). Sami Hauk recorded one save in the goal, while Purdue’s Charlotte Cyr tallied six saves in the first 45 minutes.

In the second half, NU extended its lead and completed its sixth shutout of the season as the Huskers held Purdue to just two shots on goal. In the 81st minute, sophomore Waite netted her second finish of the year from Florence Belzile’s conference-leading 12th assist on the season.&nbsp;

Overall, the Huskers had the advantage in shots (19-12), shots on goal (10-3) and corners (7-6). Seven Huskers recorded shots, led by Dale (9), as Haley Peterson, Abbey Schwarz, Belzile and Jordan Zade all recorded two, and Ella Guyott and Waite tallied a shot apiece.In the goal, Hauk played the entire game, earned her third-straight shutout and recorded three saves. Hauk was joined by Anglim, Dale, Peterson and Nicola Hauk who also played 90 minutes.With the loss, Purdue falls to 3-12-2 on the season and 0-7-2 in conference play.Up next, the Huskers close out the regular season on Sunday, Oct. 11 at Illinois. Action is set for 7:05 p.m. (CT) and will be streamed on Big Ten Plus.

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsBehind finishes from Eleanor Dale and Sadie Waite, the Nebraska soccer team defeated Purdue 2-0 on Thursday night in front of 1,211 fans at Hibner Stadium.&nbsp;The victory marked the Huskers fifth-straight conference win as they are currently tied for second in the conference standings. Additionally, tonight's game moved NU to 12-2-3 on the season and the Big Red’s six conference victories is the most since 2013, when the team won both the regular season title and the conference championship.In the 13th minute, Dale scored her nation-leading 22nd goal of the season off assists from Gwen Lane and Sadie Waite. Waite sent a cross to Lane who passed the ball down the pitch to Dale who gathered and scored into the top right corner of the net.The Huskers held the Boilermakers scoreless in the first half, while also leading in shots (9-6), shots on goal (7-1) and corners (5-1). Sami Hauk recorded one save in the goal, while Purdue’s Charlotte Cyr tallied six saves in the first 45 minutes.In the second half, NU extended its lead and completed its sixth shutout of the season as the Huskers held Purdue to just two shots on goal. In the 81st minute, sophomore Waite netted her second finish of the year from Florence Belzile’s conference-leading 12th assist on the season.&nbsp;Overall, the Huskers had the advantage in shots (19-12), shots on goal (10-3) and corners (7-6). Seven Huskers recorded shots, led by Dale (9), as Haley Peterson, Abbey Schwarz, Belzile and Jordan Zade all recorded two, and Ella Guyott and Waite tallied a shot apiece.In the goal, Hauk played the entire game, earned her third-straight shutout and recorded three saves. Hauk was joined by Anglim, Dale, Peterson and Nicola Hauk who also played 90 minutes.With the loss, Purdue falls to 3-12-2 on the season and 0-7-2 in conference play.Up next, the Huskers close out the regular season on Sunday, Oct. 11 at Illinois. Action is set for 7:05 p.m. (CT) and will be streamed on Big Ten Plus.

NU defeats Purdue, tied for second in Big Ten

Despite the windy conditions, Taytom Timbers notched his first top ten finish of the season at the McCook Community College Invite on Thursday.

Timbers closed out the round with a collegiate best 76 (+4) at the Heritage Hills Golf Course. His performance included 12 pars over 18 holes, to improve upon his previous best round of 81.

Additionally, Treyten York and Cole Kramer finished the day inside the top-17 individually. York managed two birdies on his way to a round of 82 (+10), while Kramer matched his collegiate best round of 83 (+11).

The invite concludes the fall portion of the Knights’ schedule. North Platte will continue their inaugural season in the spring of 2024.

North Platte7. Taytom Timbers – 76 (+4)T12. Treyten York – 82 (+10)T17. Cole Kramer – 83 (+11)34. David Winkelmann – 92 (+20)38. Teagun Boen – 95 (+23)43. Joseph Villani -&nbsp; 102 (+30)47. Caeson Clarke – 105 (+33)

Team StandingsEastern Wyoming – 306 (+18)Central Wyoming – 315 (+27)McCook – 318 (+30)Otero – 328 (+40)North Platte – 333 (+45)Northeastern – 360 (+72)Lamar – 384 (+96)

Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsDespite the windy conditions, Taytom Timbers notched his first top ten finish of the season at the McCook Community College Invite on Thursday.Timbers closed out the round with a collegiate best 76 (+4) at the Heritage Hills Golf Course. His performance included 12 pars over 18 holes, to improve upon his previous best round of 81.Additionally, Treyten York and Cole Kramer finished the day inside the top-17 individually. York managed two birdies on his way to a round of 82 (+10), while Kramer matched his collegiate best round of 83 (+11).The invite concludes the fall portion of the Knights’ schedule. North Platte will continue their inaugural season in the spring of 2024.North Platte7. Taytom Timbers – 76 (+4)T12. Treyten York – 82 (+10)T17. Cole Kramer – 83 (+11)34. David Winkelmann – 92 (+20)38. Teagun Boen – 95 (+23)43. Joseph Villani -&nbsp; 102 (+30)47. Caeson Clarke – 105 (+33)Team StandingsEastern Wyoming – 306 (+18)Central Wyoming – 315 (+27)McCook – 318 (+30)Otero – 328 (+40)North Platte – 333 (+45)Northeastern – 360 (+72)Lamar – 384 (+96)

Timbers notches top ten finish at McCook Community College Invite

Post by 247Huskers<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Coach Rhule’s speech at practice on Sunday after getting blown out by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Michigan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Michigan</a> “Winners win, losers lose” <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GBR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GBR</a> <a href="https://t.co/UkPeRUJwDK">pic.twitter.com/UkPeRUJwDK</a>&mdash; 247Huskers (@247Huskers) <a href="https://twitter.com/247Huskers/status/1714420176593043490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Coach Rhule's practice speech after tough loss to Michigan

The Nebraska swimming and diving team welcomes South Dakota State to the Devaney Natatorium Friday at 4 p.m. (CT) for a Midwest showdown.&nbsp;

The Huskers look to build momentum, coming off a weekend on the road where they captured team wins over Iowa State and South Dakota.

Senior Sarah Barton led the Huskers to a victory on Saturday against the Cyclones after logging three individual titles and racking up 27 points for her team. Barton swam for first in the 200 butterfly (2:03.02), the 200 backstroke (2:03.64) and the 200 IM (2:07.61).

Gena Jorgenson and JoJo Randby were also key contributors for the Huskers over the weekend. Jorgenson grabbed two first-place finishes against the Cyclones (1000 freestyle, 500 freestyle) and took second in the 1000 freestyle against Minnesota and South Dakota. JoJo Randy swept the 100 breaststroke over the weekend with two first-place titles and a time of 1:04.07 at the double-dual in Minneapolis, Minn.

Divers Abby Baxter and Antonina Harned kicked off their Husker careers with an impressive showing against the Cyclones. Baxter took first-place on both the one-meter and three-meter dives, while Harned took second.&nbsp;

Freshman Beatrix Tanko is also finding her stride with the Huskers as she captured the title in the 100 butterfly against Iowa State (56.48).

The Jackrabbits come to Lincoln with a 2-0 record with wins over Augustana and Iowa Central. Senior Gabriella Gnewuch captured titles in the 100 freestyle (55.41) and the 1000 freestyle (11:22.17), propelling the Jackrabbits to victory over Iowa Central. Freshman Gigi Hioki and senior Zoey Ahrens will also play a big role for the Jackrabbits.&nbsp;

A link to live results for Friday's dual will be available through huskers.com and can be accessed through the Meet Mobile app.&nbsp;

Nebraska vs. South Dakota StateFriday, Oct. 20 (4 p.m.)

Order of Events200 Medley Relay1000 Freestyle200 Freestyle100 Backstroke100 Breaststroke200 Butterfly50 Freestyle3M Diving100 Freestyle200 Backstroke200 Breaststroke500 Freestyle100 Butterfly1M Diving200 IM200 Freestyle Relay

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska swimming and diving team welcomes South Dakota State to the Devaney Natatorium Friday at 4 p.m. (CT) for a Midwest showdown.&nbsp;The Huskers look to build momentum, coming off a weekend on the road where they captured team wins over Iowa State and South Dakota.Senior Sarah Barton led the Huskers to a victory on Saturday against the Cyclones after logging three individual titles and racking up 27 points for her team. Barton swam for first in the 200 butterfly (2:03.02), the 200 backstroke (2:03.64) and the 200 IM (2:07.61).Gena Jorgenson and JoJo Randby were also key contributors for the Huskers over the weekend. Jorgenson grabbed two first-place finishes against the Cyclones (1000 freestyle, 500 freestyle) and took second in the 1000 freestyle against Minnesota and South Dakota. JoJo Randy swept the 100 breaststroke over the weekend with two first-place titles and a time of 1:04.07 at the double-dual in Minneapolis, Minn.Divers Abby Baxter and Antonina Harned kicked off their Husker careers with an impressive showing against the Cyclones. Baxter took first-place on both the one-meter and three-meter dives, while Harned took second.&nbsp;Freshman Beatrix Tanko is also finding her stride with the Huskers as she captured the title in the 100 butterfly against Iowa State (56.48).The Jackrabbits come to Lincoln with a 2-0 record with wins over Augustana and Iowa Central. Senior Gabriella Gnewuch captured titles in the 100 freestyle (55.41) and the 1000 freestyle (11:22.17), propelling the Jackrabbits to victory over Iowa Central. Freshman Gigi Hioki and senior Zoey Ahrens will also play a big role for the Jackrabbits.&nbsp;A link to live results for Friday's dual will be available through huskers.com and can be accessed through the Meet Mobile app.&nbsp;Nebraska vs. South Dakota StateFriday, Oct. 20 (4 p.m.)Devaney NatatoriumOrder of Events200 Medley Relay1000 Freestyle200 Freestyle100 Backstroke100 Breaststroke200 Butterfly50 Freestyle3M Diving100 Freestyle200 Backstroke200 Breaststroke500 Freestyle100 Butterfly1M Diving200 IM200 Freestyle Relay

Huskers host Jackrabbits for home opener

With a four-match winning streak and tie for second in the conference standings, the Nebraska soccer team (11-2-3, 5-1-2 Big Ten) aims to continue its momentum as the Huskers wrap up regular season play at home against Purdue and on the road at Illinois.&nbsp;

The Huskers host the Boilermakers (3-11-2, 0-6-2 Big Ten) on Thursday starting at 7:05 p.m. (CT) and battle the Fighting Illini (6-6-3, 2-4-2 Big Ten) on Sunday at 12 p.m. (CT) at Demirjian Park in Champaign, Ill.&nbsp;

Both matches will be streamed live on Big Ten Plus (subscription required to watch).

Last Time OutThe Huskers scored a finish in each half while keeping the Gophers scoreless, as the Nebraska soccer team defeated Minnesota on the road 2-0 Sunday afternoon.&nbsp;

Next UpAfter this week's conference matches, Nebraska ­will await the announcement of its seed for the 2023 Big Ten Women's Soccer Tournament starting on Sunday, Oct. 29.

Quick NotesThe Huskers are currently ranked 21st in this week’s RPI. Penn State (first) is the only team in the Big Ten who is ranked higher, and NU is joined by Wisconsin (26th) and Michigan State (28th) in the top 30.&nbsp;

Dale earned her fourth Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week honor last week as she currently leads the country and conference in total goals (21) and game-winning goals (6), while also leading the conference in shots (93), shots on goal (44) and points (46). Additionally, she has tallied nine total braces on the season and is currently tied for fourth all-time in the Husker records in goals scored. Nationally, Dale leads in goals per game (1.31), second in shots on goal per game (2.75) and also second in points (46).&nbsp;

Dale’s total goals and points are the most in the Big Ten since 2013 when Illinois’ Jannelle Flaws had 23 goals and 48 points.

Junior forward Weber has continued her strong offensive attack as she is second in the conference standings in shots (69), third in shots on goal (30), fourth in points (24) and fifth in goals (9).

Junior midfielder Florence Belzile, a member of last week's Top Drawer Soccer team, recorded two assists in Thursday’s game against Maryland and now has a team-high 11 on the season, good for second in the conference and fourth nationally. She also is 10th in the conference standings with 17 points.&nbsp;

As a team, the Huskers are fifth in the nation in assists per game (3.12) and total goals (45), sixth in shots on goal per game (9.38) and seventh in points per game (8.75) and shots per game (19.69).

In the goal, senior Sami Hauk has recorded 61 saves on the year and is currently fourth in saves per game (3.81).

NU enters the week tied for second in the conference standings with 17 points (three points for a win, one point for a tie).

Four of NU’s six freshmen have seen the pitch so far this year, led by Reese Borer who has played 214 minutes

The Huskers’ six goals against Eastern Washington marked the most finishes the Huskers have tallied in a regular season match since the 2011 victory against Northern Arizona (8-1) and the most goals on the road since the win in 2009 at Kansas (7-4). Additionally, that was the first time since NU’s victory over Missouri in 2021 that the Big Red has netted four or more goals in the second half

This season’s win over Eastern Washington also marked the 350th win in program history. Head Coach John Walker achieved the same milestone, having been at the helm of the program since its inception in 1994.

Head Coach John Walker is in his 30th season, alongside assistant coaches Savanah Anderson-Baer (first season), Ian Bridge (eighth season) and Marty Everding (26th season).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Scouting the Purdue BoilermakersPurdue is 3-11-2 overall with a 0-6-2 record in Big Ten Play. The Boilermakers are coming off a recent 0-0 tie against No. 4 Penn State and a 2-1 loss at Illinois.

Nebraska leads the all-time series, 8-5-1, dating back to the first meeting between the schools in 2001. Most recently, the teams tied 1-1 in 2022 in Indiana.&nbsp;

Head Coach Drew Roff is in his ninth season at Purdue. He is assisted by Jim Schneiderhahn and Kelsey Brouwer.&nbsp;

Scouting the Illinois Fighting IlliniIllinois is 6-6-3 this season with a 2-4-2 record in Big Ten play. The Fighting Illini face Michigan State on Thursday night before their matchup against Nebraska on Sunday.

The Fighting Illini leads the all-time series between the two teams, 5-8-0, dating back to 2004. The Huskers are on a two-match winning streak against the Fighting Illini as NU won 3-1 in both 2021 and 2022.

Head Coach Janet Rayfield is 226-173-43 in her 22nd season at Illinois. Rayfield is assisted by Jeff Freeman and Sammy Jo Prudhomme.&nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsWith a four-match winning streak and tie for second in the conference standings, the Nebraska soccer team (11-2-3, 5-1-2 Big Ten) aims to continue its momentum as the Huskers wrap up regular season play at home against Purdue and on the road at Illinois.&nbsp;The Huskers host the Boilermakers (3-11-2, 0-6-2 Big Ten) on Thursday starting at 7:05 p.m. (CT) and battle the Fighting Illini (6-6-3, 2-4-2 Big Ten) on Sunday at 12 p.m. (CT) at Demirjian Park in Champaign, Ill.&nbsp;Both matches will be streamed live on Big Ten Plus (subscription required to watch).Last Time OutThe Huskers scored a finish in each half while keeping the Gophers scoreless, as the Nebraska soccer team defeated Minnesota on the road 2-0 Sunday afternoon.&nbsp;Next UpAfter this week's conference matches, Nebraska ­will await the announcement of its seed for the 2023 Big Ten Women's Soccer Tournament starting on Sunday, Oct. 29.Quick NotesThe Huskers are currently ranked 21st in this week’s RPI. Penn State (first) is the only team in the Big Ten who is ranked higher, and NU is joined by Wisconsin (26th) and Michigan State (28th) in the top 30.&nbsp;Dale earned her fourth Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week honor last week as she currently leads the country and conference in total goals (21) and game-winning goals (6), while also leading the conference in shots (93), shots on goal (44) and points (46). Additionally, she has tallied nine total braces on the season and is currently tied for fourth all-time in the Husker records in goals scored. Nationally, Dale leads in goals per game (1.31), second in shots on goal per game (2.75) and also second in points (46).&nbsp;Dale’s total goals and points are the most in the Big Ten since 2013 when Illinois’ Jannelle Flaws had 23 goals and 48 points.Junior forward Weber has continued her strong offensive attack as she is second in the conference standings in shots (69), third in shots on goal (30), fourth in points (24) and fifth in goals (9).Junior midfielder Florence Belzile, a member of last week's Top Drawer Soccer team, recorded two assists in Thursday’s game against Maryland and now has a team-high 11 on the season, good for second in the conference and fourth nationally. She also is 10th in the conference standings with 17 points.&nbsp;As a team, the Huskers are fifth in the nation in assists per game (3.12) and total goals (45), sixth in shots on goal per game (9.38) and seventh in points per game (8.75) and shots per game (19.69).In the goal, senior Sami Hauk has recorded 61 saves on the year and is currently fourth in saves per game (3.81).NU enters the week tied for second in the conference standings with 17 points (three points for a win, one point for a tie).Four of NU’s six freshmen have seen the pitch so far this year, led by Reese Borer who has played 214 minutesThe Huskers’ six goals against Eastern Washington marked the most finishes the Huskers have tallied in a regular season match since the 2011 victory against Northern Arizona (8-1) and the most goals on the road since the win in 2009 at Kansas (7-4). Additionally, that was the first time since NU’s victory over Missouri in 2021 that the Big Red has netted four or more goals in the second halfThis season’s win over Eastern Washington also marked the 350th win in program history. Head Coach John Walker achieved the same milestone, having been at the helm of the program since its inception in 1994.Head Coach John Walker is in his 30th season, alongside assistant coaches Savanah Anderson-Baer (first season), Ian Bridge (eighth season) and Marty Everding (26th season).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Scouting the Purdue BoilermakersPurdue is 3-11-2 overall with a 0-6-2 record in Big Ten Play. The Boilermakers are coming off a recent 0-0 tie against No. 4 Penn State and a 2-1 loss at Illinois.Nebraska leads the all-time series, 8-5-1, dating back to the first meeting between the schools in 2001. Most recently, the teams tied 1-1 in 2022 in Indiana.&nbsp;Head Coach Drew Roff is in his ninth season at Purdue. He is assisted by Jim Schneiderhahn and Kelsey Brouwer.&nbsp;Players to Watch<ul>
 <li>#24 Kayla Budish: Team-high eight points (three goals and two assists)</li><li>#10 Emily Mathews: Team-high five assists</li><li>#1 Charlotte Cyr: Has recorded 62 saves and one shutout on the year&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Scouting the Illinois Fighting IlliniIllinois is 6-6-3 this season with a 2-4-2 record in Big Ten play. The Fighting Illini face Michigan State on Thursday night before their matchup against Nebraska on Sunday.The Fighting Illini leads the all-time series between the two teams, 5-8-0, dating back to 2004. The Huskers are on a two-match winning streak against the Fighting Illini as NU won 3-1 in both 2021 and 2022.Head Coach Janet Rayfield is 226-173-43 in her 22nd season at Illinois. Rayfield is assisted by Jeff Freeman and Sammy Jo Prudhomme.&nbsp;Players to Watch<ul>
 <li>#22 Lia Howard: Team-high 12 points (four goals and four assists)</li><li>#28 Sydney Stephens: Tied for the team-high with goals, while adding one assist</li><li>#1 Julia Cili: Has recorded 75 saves and two shutouts this season&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>

#25 Huskers Look to Purdue, Illinois

The No. 2 Nebraska volleyball team swept Northwestern 25-15, 25-16, 25-21 on Wednesday night at Welsh-Ryan Arena.&nbsp;

The Huskers hit a season-best .395 in the match while improving to 18-0 overall and 9-0 in Big Ten play. Merritt Beason had 13 kills and hit .323 with seven digs and three blocks, while Harper Murray had 10 kills and hit .412 and served a career-high four aces. Bekka Allick contributed nine kills on .800 hitting with a pair of blocks. Andi Jackson had seven kills and hit .667.&nbsp;

Bergen Reilly had 38 set assists and six digs served a pair of aces. The Huskers had nine aces in the match. Nebraska had 45 kills to 26 for Northwestern and won the digs battle, 35-26. Lexi Rodriguez had nine digs to lead the Big Red.&nbsp;

Northwestern dropped to 9-10 overall and 3-6 in Big Ten play. The Wildcats were held to a .125 hitting percentage for the match.&nbsp;

Set 1: The Huskers built a 14-6 lead with Allick registering three kills and two blocks. After Northwestern pulled within 14-10, Allick had two more kills around one by Beason for a 17-10 Husker lead. Three kills and an ace by Beason, and kills by Jackson and Batenhorst took the Huskers to set point, 24-14. A Jackson kill finished the set at 25-15. Beason had seven kills on 12 swings, while Allick had five, as the Huskers hit .483 and held the Wildcats to .136.&nbsp;

Set 2: An ace by Reilly and kill by Allick helped the Huskers to a 4-0 lead. Beason added a kill and Murray served an ace for a 6-2 lead, but the Wildcats pulled within 8-6. Nebraska then used a 9-4 spurt to go up 17-10. Jackson had two kills in that stretch, while Murray, Allick and Beason each had one. Northwestern pulled within 17-13, but Beason and Jackson answered with kills for a 19-13 lead. Reilly had a kill and ace down the stretch, and Murray and Beason tacked on kills as the Big Red won 25-16. Nebraska hit .542 in set two, and Northwestern hit .161.&nbsp;

Set 3: Nebraska led 12-11 when Beason had a kill and Jackson had a solo block to make it 14-11. Rodriguez then served Nebraska's ninth ace for a 15-11 lead. But the Huskers surrendered a 4-0 run to Northwestern and the set was tied 15-15. Murray had back-to-back kills to lift the Huskers to a 19-16 lead, and two more Murray kills made it 21-18. After the Wildcats got within 22-21, Allick and Batenhorst posted kills and Nebraska won 25-21. Murray had eight of her 10 kills in the final set.&nbsp;

Up Next: Nebraska will host No. 1 Wisconsin on Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Bob Devaney Sports Center. The match will be televised on Big Ten Network.&nbsp;

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe No. 2 Nebraska volleyball team swept Northwestern 25-15, 25-16, 25-21 on Wednesday night at Welsh-Ryan Arena.&nbsp;The Huskers hit a season-best .395 in the match while improving to 18-0 overall and 9-0 in Big Ten play. Merritt Beason had 13 kills and hit .323 with seven digs and three blocks, while Harper Murray had 10 kills and hit .412 and served a career-high four aces. Bekka Allick contributed nine kills on .800 hitting with a pair of blocks. Andi Jackson had seven kills and hit .667.&nbsp;Bergen Reilly had 38 set assists and six digs served a pair of aces. The Huskers had nine aces in the match. Nebraska had 45 kills to 26 for Northwestern and won the digs battle, 35-26. Lexi Rodriguez had nine digs to lead the Big Red.&nbsp;Northwestern dropped to 9-10 overall and 3-6 in Big Ten play. The Wildcats were held to a .125 hitting percentage for the match.&nbsp;Set 1: The Huskers built a 14-6 lead with Allick registering three kills and two blocks. After Northwestern pulled within 14-10, Allick had two more kills around one by Beason for a 17-10 Husker lead. Three kills and an ace by Beason, and kills by Jackson and Batenhorst took the Huskers to set point, 24-14. A Jackson kill finished the set at 25-15. Beason had seven kills on 12 swings, while Allick had five, as the Huskers hit .483 and held the Wildcats to .136.&nbsp;Set 2: An ace by Reilly and kill by Allick helped the Huskers to a 4-0 lead. Beason added a kill and Murray served an ace for a 6-2 lead, but the Wildcats pulled within 8-6. Nebraska then used a 9-4 spurt to go up 17-10. Jackson had two kills in that stretch, while Murray, Allick and Beason each had one. Northwestern pulled within 17-13, but Beason and Jackson answered with kills for a 19-13 lead. Reilly had a kill and ace down the stretch, and Murray and Beason tacked on kills as the Big Red won 25-16. Nebraska hit .542 in set two, and Northwestern hit .161.&nbsp;Set 3: Nebraska led 12-11 when Beason had a kill and Jackson had a solo block to make it 14-11. Rodriguez then served Nebraska's ninth ace for a 15-11 lead. But the Huskers surrendered a 4-0 run to Northwestern and the set was tied 15-15. Murray had back-to-back kills to lift the Huskers to a 19-16 lead, and two more Murray kills made it 21-18. After the Wildcats got within 22-21, Allick and Batenhorst posted kills and Nebraska won 25-21. Murray had eight of her 10 kills in the final set.&nbsp;Up Next: Nebraska will host No. 1 Wisconsin on Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Bob Devaney Sports Center. The match will be televised on Big Ten Network.&nbsp;

Huskers Sweep Northwestern on the Road

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697643474713.jpeg" alt="2023-24 VBTourney Final Bracket" />
 <figcaption>2023-24 VBTourney Final Bracket</figcaption>
 </figure>

RPAC tournament results 

The Nebraska men's tennis team continues its 2023-24 fall season in Stillwater, Okla., this week at the ITA Regional Championships, Oct. 18-22. Eight Huskers are set to compete in the tournament: Rudi Christiansen, Lars Johann, Leo Linquet, Shunya Maruyama, Calvin Mueller, Anton Shepp, Nikolay Sysoev and Nic Wiedenhorn.Christiansen will enter the tournament coming off his second season with the Huskers. Winning his last four singles matches of the 2022-23 season, Christiansen is kicking off his senior season in Stillwater. He will be competing in both singles and doubles this week, playing doubles with Mueller.ITA Regionals will be Johann’s second tournament of the season, after taking on ITA All-Americans earlier this month. Johann was a difference-maker for NU his freshman season, going 8-6 in singles and 7-5 in doubles. Johann will be competing in both singles and doubles in Stillwater, playing doubles with fellow sophomore Linquet. Johann has byes in the first rounds in singles and doubles.Linquet has been a fall essential for the Huskers this season, Stillwater being his third tournament this year. At the season opener, Linquet found success in doubles, placing second in the Milwaukee Tennis Classic with Mueller. With 11 total matches under his belt for the season, Linquet will be competing in singles and doubles in Stillwater, partnered with Johann for doubles play. Linquet has byes in the first rounds in singles and doubles.Maruyama led NU in their last fall tournament, reaching the Round of 64 in singles at the ITA All-American Championships. After a strong 2022-23 season and his start in Tulsa, Maruyama will take the court again both in singles and doubles this week for the Big Red. Maruyama will be partnered with Husker newcomer Sysoev for doubles. Maruyama has a first round bye in singles.After a great doubles run with Linquet in Milwaukee, Mueller is competing in singles and doubles in Stillwater this week. The 2022-23 season was Mueller’s best collegiate season to date, with career highs in both singles wins (12) and doubles wins (14). Mueller will be taking on doubles play with Christiansen.Shepp is entering the tournament after representing the Big Red for the first time earlier this month in Tulsa. Shepp transferred from UT-Arlington, where he helped lead the team to the 2023 NCAA Tournament and clinched the conference championship win during singles play. Shepp was also a first-team All-WAC in both doubles and singles. In Stillwater, Shepp will play doubles with Wiedenhorn, as well as singles, having first round byes in both draws.Sysoev will be representing the Big Red for the first time in Stillwater, after transferring from New Mexico where he spent his freshman season. With the Lobos, Sysoev tallied seven singles wins and claimed a team conference championship. In Stillwater, Sysoev will be playing singles, as well as doubles with senior Maruyama.Wiedenhorn is entering the tournament coming off his best season with the Big Red. In the spring, Wiedenhorn tallied an 8-4 singles record. Stillwater will be Wiedenhorn’s first fall tournament this season, where he will play singles as well as doubles with Shepp. Wiedenhorn has byes in the first rounds in singles and doubles.&nbsp;ITA Regional Championship Draws can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://colleges.wearecollegetennis.com/competitions/OklahomaStateUniversityM/Tournaments/overview/4E26759A-4A69-4A62-8900-D03562C9493A?_gl=1*175ojj6*_ga*Nzc5NzY3NTY1LjE2ODg1ODU0NDM.*_ga_42FV4Y13KJ*MTY5NzQ4Mzk4Ni4xNS4xLjE2OTc0ODM5OTIuNTQuMC4w&amp;_ga=2.193925103.378629453.1697483987-779767565.1688585443" target="_blank">here</a>.Stay tuned to the ITA tournament&nbsp;<a href="https://wearecollegetennis.com/championships/ita-d1-regionals/?_gl=1%2A1oylire%2A_ga%2ANzc5NzY3NTY1LjE2ODg1ODU0NDM.%2A_ga_42FV4Y13KJ%2AMTY5NzQ4NTgxOC4xNi4xLjE2OTc0ODYwNDcuMjIuMC4w&amp;_ga=2.138357874.378629453.1697483987-779767565.1688585443" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;and Nebraska Men’s Tennis&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/huskermtennis" target="_blank">social channels</a>&nbsp;to keep up with Regional Championship updates and content.Doubles (Draw of 64)Leo Linquet and Lars Johann (Round One bye)Rudi Christiansen and Calvin Mueller (Round One at 5:30 p.m.)Nic Wiedenhorn and Anton Shepp (Round One bye)Nikolay Sysoev and Shunya Maruyama (Round One at 5:30 p.m.)Singles (Draw of 128)Lars Johann (Round One bye, Round Two at 1:30 p.m.)Shunya Maruyama (Round One bye, Round Two at 1:30 p.m.)Nikolay Sysoev (Round One at 10 a.m.)Rudi Christiansen (Round One at 10:30 a.m.)Calvin Mueller (Round One at 11:30 a.m.)Anton Shepp (Round One bye, Round Two at 4 p.m.)Leo Linquet (Round One bye, Round Two at 4:30 p.m.)Nic Wiedenhorn (Round One bye, Round Two at 4:30 p.m.)

Story by NU Athletic CommunicationsThe Nebraska men's tennis team continues its 2023-24 fall season in Stillwater, Okla., this week at the ITA Regional Championships, Oct. 18-22. Eight Huskers are set to compete in the tournament: Rudi Christiansen, Lars Johann, Leo Linquet, Shunya Maruyama, Calvin Mueller, Anton Shepp, Nikolay Sysoev and Nic Wiedenhorn.Christiansen will enter the tournament coming off his second season with the Huskers. Winning his last four singles matches of the 2022-23 season, Christiansen is kicking off his senior season in Stillwater. He will be competing in both singles and doubles this week, playing doubles with Mueller.ITA Regionals will be Johann’s second tournament of the season, after taking on ITA All-Americans earlier this month. Johann was a difference-maker for NU his freshman season, going 8-6 in singles and 7-5 in doubles. Johann will be competing in both singles and doubles in Stillwater, playing doubles with fellow sophomore Linquet. Johann has byes in the first rounds in singles and doubles.Linquet has been a fall essential for the Huskers this season, Stillwater being his third tournament this year. At the season opener, Linquet found success in doubles, placing second in the Milwaukee Tennis Classic with Mueller. With 11 total matches under his belt for the season, Linquet will be competing in singles and doubles in Stillwater, partnered with Johann for doubles play. Linquet has byes in the first rounds in singles and doubles.Maruyama led NU in their last fall tournament, reaching the Round of 64 in singles at the ITA All-American Championships. After a strong 2022-23 season and his start in Tulsa, Maruyama will take the court again both in singles and doubles this week for the Big Red. Maruyama will be partnered with Husker newcomer Sysoev for doubles. Maruyama has a first round bye in singles.After a great doubles run with Linquet in Milwaukee, Mueller is competing in singles and doubles in Stillwater this week. The 2022-23 season was Mueller’s best collegiate season to date, with career highs in both singles wins (12) and doubles wins (14). Mueller will be taking on doubles play with Christiansen.Shepp is entering the tournament after representing the Big Red for the first time earlier this month in Tulsa. Shepp transferred from UT-Arlington, where he helped lead the team to the 2023 NCAA Tournament and clinched the conference championship win during singles play. Shepp was also a first-team All-WAC in both doubles and singles. In Stillwater, Shepp will play doubles with Wiedenhorn, as well as singles, having first round byes in both draws.Sysoev will be representing the Big Red for the first time in Stillwater, after transferring from New Mexico where he spent his freshman season. With the Lobos, Sysoev tallied seven singles wins and claimed a team conference championship. In Stillwater, Sysoev will be playing singles, as well as doubles with senior Maruyama.Wiedenhorn is entering the tournament coming off his best season with the Big Red. In the spring, Wiedenhorn tallied an 8-4 singles record. Stillwater will be Wiedenhorn’s first fall tournament this season, where he will play singles as well as doubles with Shepp. Wiedenhorn has byes in the first rounds in singles and doubles.&nbsp;ITA Regional Championship Draws can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://colleges.wearecollegetennis.com/competitions/OklahomaStateUniversityM/Tournaments/overview/4E26759A-4A69-4A62-8900-D03562C9493A?_gl=1*175ojj6*_ga*Nzc5NzY3NTY1LjE2ODg1ODU0NDM.*_ga_42FV4Y13KJ*MTY5NzQ4Mzk4Ni4xNS4xLjE2OTc0ODM5OTIuNTQuMC4w&amp;_ga=2.193925103.378629453.1697483987-779767565.1688585443" target="_blank">here</a>.Stay tuned to the ITA tournament&nbsp;<a href="https://wearecollegetennis.com/championships/ita-d1-regionals/?_gl=1%2A1oylire%2A_ga%2ANzc5NzY3NTY1LjE2ODg1ODU0NDM.%2A_ga_42FV4Y13KJ%2AMTY5NzQ4NTgxOC4xNi4xLjE2OTc0ODYwNDcuMjIuMC4w&amp;_ga=2.138357874.378629453.1697483987-779767565.1688585443" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;and Nebraska Men’s Tennis&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/huskermtennis" target="_blank">social channels</a>&nbsp;to keep up with Regional Championship updates and content.Doubles (Draw of 64)Leo Linquet and Lars Johann (Round One bye)Rudi Christiansen and Calvin Mueller (Round One at 5:30 p.m.)Nic Wiedenhorn and Anton Shepp (Round One bye)Nikolay Sysoev and Shunya Maruyama (Round One at 5:30 p.m.)Singles (Draw of 128)Lars Johann (Round One bye, Round Two at 1:30 p.m.)Shunya Maruyama (Round One bye, Round Two at 1:30 p.m.)Nikolay Sysoev (Round One at 10 a.m.)Rudi Christiansen (Round One at 10:30 a.m.)Calvin Mueller (Round One at 11:30 a.m.)Anton Shepp (Round One bye, Round Two at 4 p.m.)Leo Linquet (Round One bye, Round Two at 4:30 p.m.)Nic Wiedenhorn (Round One bye, Round Two at 4:30 p.m.)

Huskers travel to Stillwater for ITA Regionals

ll that was missing from the busy night for Colorado's Logan O'Connor's was an assist. He got the fight out the way almost immediately before adding what proved to be the deciding goal.

“I feel like he plays like that all the time. He's going to play as hard as he can, use his skating to his advantage,” Colorado coach Jared Bednar said. “He's willing to do all the little things it takes to have success.”

O'Connor and Arttui Lehkonen scored their first goals of the season in the second period, Mikko Rantanen scored his third with 6:15 remaining and the Avalanche beat the Seattle Kraken 4-1 on Tuesday night.

The Avalanche ruined Seattle’s home opener and matched an NHL record for the longest regular-season road winning streak spanning multiple seasons. Colorado won its 14th straight away from home dating to last season, matching the mark set by Buffalo during the 2005-06 and 2006-07 seasons.

Colorado goalie Alexandar Georgiev made 37 saves and turned away nearly every dangerous chance.

“They were probably the better team tonight but (Georgiev) was huge back there, penalty kill was big,” O'Connor said. “He's the best penalty killer out there.”

The first meeting since Game 7 of last season’s Western Conference first-round matchup won by Seattle got off to a heated start with O’Connor and Jordan Eberle dropping the gloves inside the first 90 seconds. It was just the third fight of Eberle’s career and first since 2019.

The fight was in response to Eberle's hit on Andrew Cogliano in Game 6 of the playoff matchup. Cogliano suffered a neck fracture as a result of the hit.

“We obviously go back to the series last year. It was a tough series, tough situation,” Eberle said. "I was just trying to get my teammates going.”

Colorado's Cale Makar was greeted with hearty boos every time he touched the puck, the result of his hit on Jared McCann in Game 4 of the playoff series that drew a one-game suspension and sidelined McCann for the rest of the series.

“There's definitely a lot of animosity, I think," O'Connor said. "We feel as though we didn't give our best effort in that series last year. They played us hard. You have got to give them credit.”

Lehkonen scored at 3:50 of the second period after the puck deflected his way and Seattle goalie Philipp Grubauer was caught out of position. O’Connor’s goal was short-handed at 11:50 when Makar’s clearance hopped over the stick of Vince Dunn at the blue line and sent O’Connor free on a breakaway.

Grubauer made 23 saves and kept it a one-goal margin with some key stops before Rantanen scored his third of the season.

Valeri Nichushkin scored an empty-net goal with 3:14 left. Nichushkin missed the final five postseason games of the first-round loss to Seattle for what the team called “personal reasons.”

Kailer Yamamoto scored at 15:09 of the first period to give Seattle the lead, his first goal as the first player from Washington state to play for the Kraken. But the rest of Seattle’s home opener was filled with missed opportunities and the Kraken remained winless through four games for the first time in their three seasons.

Seattle outshot and outhit the Avalanche but couldn't capitalize on the power play going 0 for 4 and is 1 for 11 on the season.

“We lacked execution in a few spots tonight and against a good team that leaves us on the wrong side of the ledger,” Seattle coach Dave Hakstol said.

NOTES: Makar picked up his 250th career point with the assist on O'Connor's goal. O'Connor's goal was the first short-handed score of the season for Colorado and the second allowed by Seattle. ... Seattle assistant coach Dave Lowry took a puck off the top of his head during the second period and had to go back into the locker room for treatment. He returned to the bench in the third period. ... Seattle has killed 13 straight plays to begin the season.

Avalanche: Host Chicago on Thursday night in their home opener.

By Tim Booth AP Sports Writerll that was missing from the busy night for Colorado's Logan O'Connor's was an assist. He got the fight out the way almost immediately before adding what proved to be the deciding goal.“I feel like he plays like that all the time. He's going to play as hard as he can, use his skating to his advantage,” Colorado coach Jared Bednar said. “He's willing to do all the little things it takes to have success.”O'Connor and Arttui Lehkonen scored their first goals of the season in the second period, Mikko Rantanen scored his third with 6:15 remaining and the Avalanche beat the Seattle Kraken 4-1 on Tuesday night.The Avalanche ruined Seattle’s home opener and matched an NHL record for the longest regular-season road winning streak spanning multiple seasons. Colorado won its 14th straight away from home dating to last season, matching the mark set by Buffalo during the 2005-06 and 2006-07 seasons.Colorado goalie Alexandar Georgiev made 37 saves and turned away nearly every dangerous chance.“They were probably the better team tonight but (Georgiev) was huge back there, penalty kill was big,” O'Connor said. “He's the best penalty killer out there.”The first meeting since Game 7 of last season’s Western Conference first-round matchup won by Seattle got off to a heated start with O’Connor and Jordan Eberle dropping the gloves inside the first 90 seconds. It was just the third fight of Eberle’s career and first since 2019.The fight was in response to Eberle's hit on Andrew Cogliano in Game 6 of the playoff matchup. Cogliano suffered a neck fracture as a result of the hit.“We obviously go back to the series last year. It was a tough series, tough situation,” Eberle said. "I was just trying to get my teammates going.”Colorado's Cale Makar was greeted with hearty boos every time he touched the puck, the result of his hit on Jared McCann in Game 4 of the playoff series that drew a one-game suspension and sidelined McCann for the rest of the series.“There's definitely a lot of animosity, I think," O'Connor said. "We feel as though we didn't give our best effort in that series last year. They played us hard. You have got to give them credit.”Lehkonen scored at 3:50 of the second period after the puck deflected his way and Seattle goalie Philipp Grubauer was caught out of position. O’Connor’s goal was short-handed at 11:50 when Makar’s clearance hopped over the stick of Vince Dunn at the blue line and sent O’Connor free on a breakaway.Grubauer made 23 saves and kept it a one-goal margin with some key stops before Rantanen scored his third of the season.Valeri Nichushkin scored an empty-net goal with 3:14 left. Nichushkin missed the final five postseason games of the first-round loss to Seattle for what the team called “personal reasons.”Kailer Yamamoto scored at 15:09 of the first period to give Seattle the lead, his first goal as the first player from Washington state to play for the Kraken. But the rest of Seattle’s home opener was filled with missed opportunities and the Kraken remained winless through four games for the first time in their three seasons.Seattle outshot and outhit the Avalanche but couldn't capitalize on the power play going 0 for 4 and is 1 for 11 on the season.“We lacked execution in a few spots tonight and against a good team that leaves us on the wrong side of the ledger,” Seattle coach Dave Hakstol said.NOTES: Makar picked up his 250th career point with the assist on O'Connor's goal. O'Connor's goal was the first short-handed score of the season for Colorado and the second allowed by Seattle. ... Seattle assistant coach Dave Lowry took a puck off the top of his head during the second period and had to go back into the locker room for treatment. He returned to the bench in the third period. ... Seattle has killed 13 straight plays to begin the season.UP NEXTAvalanche: Host Chicago on Thursday night in their home opener.Kraken: Host Carolina on Thursday night.

Avalanche use big 2nd period, rally for 4-1 win over winless Kraken

Story by UNK Athletic Communications

The eighth-ranked Nebraska Kearney volleyball team overcame a slow start, got contributions from multiple players, rallied in the third set, and hung in the fourth to down 21st-ranked Washburn (<a href="https://lopers.com/sports/womens-volleyball/stats/2023/washburn/boxscore/7521" target="_blank">18-25, -16, -24, -23</a>) Tuesday night at the Health &amp; Sports Center.The Lopers (21-1, 11-1) win a 12th straight match, remain in sole possession of first place in the MIAA standings and end a drought against the Ichabods (13-5, 7-4). WU had taken the last six fall matches, dating back to Oct. 2019, while UNK had won two meetings during the "non-countable" 2021 spring COVID season."As well as we've been playing, I'm sure a lot of people were looking at this one and saying 'okay, but now can you win this one?" said UNK head coach&nbsp;Rick Squiers. "We can move on from that and if we have to play them again (MIAA or NCAA Tournaments), you don't have that part where you don't think you can't do it."Things didn't start well as the 'Bods got out to a 9-1 lead in the first set with UNK having to burn both of its timeouts during this stretch. While the Loper got the deficit down to 10-8 and then 13-10, Washburn finished strong to win by seven. They outhit UNK by over 200 points and dug up seven more balls."Our defense got better as we made our way through the match. We got out of our own heads a little bit and the first part of the first set was just a disaster for us," said Squiers. "It exploited everything about the matchup that's been difficult for us. They come at you from the right side, they block touch a lot of balls … we got frustrated and changed the way we play."&nbsp;

The Lopers bounced back to trail only twice in set two. A 10-4 spurt made it 19-13 as WU committed four unforced attack errors, Minden redshirt junior DS&nbsp;Jensen Rowse&nbsp;served up an ace and Kansas sophomore outside&nbsp;Emilee Lane&nbsp;had one of her 15 kills on the night."Emilee was outstanding, and I thought this might be a match where she could play well," said Squiers. "She was one of our few bright spots down there and, for whatever reason, they had difficulty with her. Even going back to last year, she had some success against them."WU came back strong as they jetted out to leads of 13-7 and 15-9 in the third set. UNK started to chip away, tying things up at 21, 22 and 23 all. While the 'Bods turned an overpass into a 24-23 lead, the Lopers scored the final three points thanks to two kills from lane and a block from her and Missouri freshman middle&nbsp;Mia Berg."(Third set win) was huge because we've had so many 'here we go again' with these guys," said Squiers. "To get that one, I think you start to believe 'okay, we can get over the hump here."UNK really warmed up the fourth to the tune of a .405 efficiency (18-145) but WU almost came back from a 24-18 hole. After a kill by 6-3 lefty righty Rachel Schwensen, redshirt freshman DS Kali Henry made her first appearance of the night and promptly served up two aces. An unforced Loper error and another 'Bods kill made it 24-23."As the match went on, we got a little bit more confident and settled in. We had our best efficiency in the fourth set, played clean and had everything going," said Squiers. "Our serve receive was strong all night long and that group is underrated in what they do."After a decent rally, Berg finally ended the 2:15 match with a kill to the middle of the WU court. She finished with 15 kills and team-highs in both blocks (eight) and attack percentage (.448). &nbsp;While the 'Bods had two more kills (60-58) and seven more digs (79-72), the Lopers hit 19 points higher, was plus three in the serve game and had two more blocks (12-10).Lane came off the bench and reached her kill total in a team-high 38 swings while also having three blocks. Next, Kansas junior outside&nbsp;Asha Regier&nbsp;had all 10 of her kills over the final two sets with Colorado freshman middle&nbsp;Trista Marx&nbsp;having all seven of her kills down the stretch. Finally, Lincoln senior libero&nbsp;Lauren Taubenheim&nbsp;(18), Lincoln grad right side&nbsp;Jaden Ferguson&nbsp;(14) and Kansas junior DS&nbsp;Addyson Mock&nbsp;(12) combined for 44 digs.Schwensen (17 digs, three blocks, .361 pct.), junior outside Jalyn Stevenson (17 kills, 17 digs) and freshman libero Taylor Rottinghaus (219 digs) paced WU.UNK is at No. 19 Central Oklahoma (18-3, 9-2) on Friday night.

Story by UNK Athletic CommunicationsThe eighth-ranked Nebraska Kearney volleyball team overcame a slow start, got contributions from multiple players, rallied in the third set, and hung in the fourth to down 21st-ranked Washburn (<a href="https://lopers.com/sports/womens-volleyball/stats/2023/washburn/boxscore/7521" target="_blank">18-25, -16, -24, -23</a>) Tuesday night at the Health &amp; Sports Center.The Lopers (21-1, 11-1) win a 12th straight match, remain in sole possession of first place in the MIAA standings and end a drought against the Ichabods (13-5, 7-4). WU had taken the last six fall matches, dating back to Oct. 2019, while UNK had won two meetings during the "non-countable" 2021 spring COVID season."As well as we've been playing, I'm sure a lot of people were looking at this one and saying 'okay, but now can you win this one?" said UNK head coach&nbsp;Rick Squiers. "We can move on from that and if we have to play them again (MIAA or NCAA Tournaments), you don't have that part where you don't think you can't do it."Things didn't start well as the 'Bods got out to a 9-1 lead in the first set with UNK having to burn both of its timeouts during this stretch. While the Loper got the deficit down to 10-8 and then 13-10, Washburn finished strong to win by seven. They outhit UNK by over 200 points and dug up seven more balls."Our defense got better as we made our way through the match. We got out of our own heads a little bit and the first part of the first set was just a disaster for us," said Squiers. "It exploited everything about the matchup that's been difficult for us. They come at you from the right side, they block touch a lot of balls … we got frustrated and changed the way we play."&nbsp;The Lopers bounced back to trail only twice in set two. A 10-4 spurt made it 19-13 as WU committed four unforced attack errors, Minden redshirt junior DS&nbsp;Jensen Rowse&nbsp;served up an ace and Kansas sophomore outside&nbsp;Emilee Lane&nbsp;had one of her 15 kills on the night."Emilee was outstanding, and I thought this might be a match where she could play well," said Squiers. "She was one of our few bright spots down there and, for whatever reason, they had difficulty with her. Even going back to last year, she had some success against them."WU came back strong as they jetted out to leads of 13-7 and 15-9 in the third set. UNK started to chip away, tying things up at 21, 22 and 23 all. While the 'Bods turned an overpass into a 24-23 lead, the Lopers scored the final three points thanks to two kills from lane and a block from her and Missouri freshman middle&nbsp;Mia Berg."(Third set win) was huge because we've had so many 'here we go again' with these guys," said Squiers. "To get that one, I think you start to believe 'okay, we can get over the hump here."UNK really warmed up the fourth to the tune of a .405 efficiency (18-145) but WU almost came back from a 24-18 hole. After a kill by 6-3 lefty righty Rachel Schwensen, redshirt freshman DS Kali Henry made her first appearance of the night and promptly served up two aces. An unforced Loper error and another 'Bods kill made it 24-23."As the match went on, we got a little bit more confident and settled in. We had our best efficiency in the fourth set, played clean and had everything going," said Squiers. "Our serve receive was strong all night long and that group is underrated in what they do."After a decent rally, Berg finally ended the 2:15 match with a kill to the middle of the WU court. She finished with 15 kills and team-highs in both blocks (eight) and attack percentage (.448). &nbsp;While the 'Bods had two more kills (60-58) and seven more digs (79-72), the Lopers hit 19 points higher, was plus three in the serve game and had two more blocks (12-10).Lane came off the bench and reached her kill total in a team-high 38 swings while also having three blocks. Next, Kansas junior outside&nbsp;Asha Regier&nbsp;had all 10 of her kills over the final two sets with Colorado freshman middle&nbsp;Trista Marx&nbsp;having all seven of her kills down the stretch. Finally, Lincoln senior libero&nbsp;Lauren Taubenheim&nbsp;(18), Lincoln grad right side&nbsp;Jaden Ferguson&nbsp;(14) and Kansas junior DS&nbsp;Addyson Mock&nbsp;(12) combined for 44 digs.Schwensen (17 digs, three blocks, .361 pct.), junior outside Jalyn Stevenson (17 kills, 17 digs) and freshman libero Taylor Rottinghaus (219 digs) paced WU.UNK is at No. 19 Central Oklahoma (18-3, 9-2) on Friday night.

Lopers have unexpected offensive leaders in key win; #19 UCO up next

The North Platte Community College volleyball team swept regional opponent Southeast Community College 3-0 Tuesday evening. The victory was sweetened by the fact that it was the last home match of the regular season for NPCC and also Sophomore Night.&nbsp;

North Platte led all the way through the first set – forging ahead until the Bobcats were down by seven. Back-to-back aces by NPCC’s Tallianna Martin brought the score to 18-8. The Bobcats gained a couple of the points at the end, slowing the momentum briefly. It wasn’t enough to catch the Knights who captured the win 25-15.

Southeast scored the first point of the second set, but it was the only time they would have the upper hand in the frame. NPCC tied the score on the next volley then ran away with ball, growing the deficit to 23-11. The Bobcats stalled the action at game point three times but ultimately fell 25-15.

Determined not to lose another one, Southeast came back strong in the third set. There were 11 ties before anyone was able to break free. The Knights finally pushed past the Bobcats 16-15 then went on a six-point run. Southeast started to creep back up with three points at the end. A kill by NPCC’s Vanessa Wood took the frame to match point, and Jaelyn Dicke won with an ace 25-18.

Wood had 12 kills to lead the Knights. Shamia Grandison contributed seven more. Aubrey Grant recorded 18 assists, and Elsie Ottun had 17. EmiLee Walnofer and Dicke tallied 23 and 19 digs, respectively.

“At this point, against region teams, every set matters, so I was glad we played how we needed to tonight,” said NPCC Volleyball Head Coach Alexa McCall. “I thought we served really well and thought we executed on offense by staying aggressive. I think it was a balanced attack from our whole team. Hopefully, this also prepares us for our game on Thursday. Since it was also Sophomore Night, I would like to thank our sophomores for their dedication to the game and our program. I have watched them all grow in their two years here and am thankful that they chose to be a Knight.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697632319997.jpeg" alt="Emily Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Emily Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>Story by NPCC Athletic CommunicationsThe North Platte Community College volleyball team swept regional opponent Southeast Community College 3-0 Tuesday evening. The victory was sweetened by the fact that it was the last home match of the regular season for NPCC and also Sophomore Night.&nbsp;North Platte led all the way through the first set – forging ahead until the Bobcats were down by seven. Back-to-back aces by NPCC’s Tallianna Martin brought the score to 18-8. The Bobcats gained a couple of the points at the end, slowing the momentum briefly. It wasn’t enough to catch the Knights who captured the win 25-15.Southeast scored the first point of the second set, but it was the only time they would have the upper hand in the frame. NPCC tied the score on the next volley then ran away with ball, growing the deficit to 23-11. The Bobcats stalled the action at game point three times but ultimately fell 25-15.Determined not to lose another one, Southeast came back strong in the third set. There were 11 ties before anyone was able to break free. The Knights finally pushed past the Bobcats 16-15 then went on a six-point run. Southeast started to creep back up with three points at the end. A kill by NPCC’s Vanessa Wood took the frame to match point, and Jaelyn Dicke won with an ace 25-18.Wood had 12 kills to lead the Knights. Shamia Grandison contributed seven more. Aubrey Grant recorded 18 assists, and Elsie Ottun had 17. EmiLee Walnofer and Dicke tallied 23 and 19 digs, respectively.“At this point, against region teams, every set matters, so I was glad we played how we needed to tonight,” said NPCC Volleyball Head Coach Alexa McCall. “I thought we served really well and thought we executed on offense by staying aggressive. I think it was a balanced attack from our whole team. Hopefully, this also prepares us for our game on Thursday. Since it was also Sophomore Night, I would like to thank our sophomores for their dedication to the game and our program. I have watched them all grow in their two years here and am thankful that they chose to be a Knight.”The Knights improve to 13-19 overall.NPCC Volleyball will wrap up regional and conference play with the final game of the regular season Thursday. The Knights will travel to Columbus for a showdown with Central Community College beginning at 6 p.m.