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Lafayette's Bohnsack battles back from deficit to earn trip to state championships

EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, Mo. — With his head still spinning, Derek Bohnsack collected his thoughts and focused on what he came to do — defend his district title. The Lafayette senior battled from behind minutes after a nasty collision left him spitting blood and won his second district championship Saturday during the Class 2 District 4 meet. His 9-7 victory against Oak Grove’s Brandon Morgason at 119 pounds sends him into next week’s Missouri State Wrestling Championships as a two-time district winner.

Benton girls get crucial MEC win against Smithville

SMITHVILLE, Mo. — A little consistency went a long, long way for Benton’s Shelbee Cox. The 5-foot-9 senior delivered on her tremendous potential Saturday night during a crucial, 48-32 victory against Smithville, the defending Midland Empire Conference champions. With 14 points and 11 rebounds, Cox was the only player to tally a double-double and scored in all four quarters with her diverse playing style. Her steady effort carried the No. 2-ranked Cardinals (19-2, 3-0 MEC) through a brief, second-half lull and on to victory.

Cameron wins first MEC wrestling title

MARYVILLE, Mo. — By now, Lanny Wake has grown accustomed to receiving the bad breaks. During his decade-long tenure, Cameron’s wrestling coach has played the bridesmaid more often than not in the highly competitive Midland Empire Conference race. Despite a mountain of medals and state plaques, one elusive distinction escaped his grasp — an MEC championship.

Central chooses Wallace as new football coach

After leading Central on the football field during his playing days, Jeff Wallace will do the same as the Indians' next head coach. On Monday, school officials announced Wallace as the successor to Tony Dudik, who stepped down this season after leading Central's program for nearly three decades. Wallace boasts 16 years of head coaching experience, which took him from South Harrison to Kirksville to Boonville.

Central chooses Wallace as head football coach

After leading Central on the football field during his playing days, Jeff Wallace will do the same as the Indians' next head coach. School officials announced Wallace as the successor to Tony Dudik, who stepped down this season after leading Central's program for nearly three decades.

Chillicothe's Young takes dominant role on defensive too

News-Press defensive player of the year

When defenses handcuffed him on offense, Bryce Young found a different way to dominate on Friday nights. Already one of the area's top talents, the explosive Chillicothe senior stepped up his game from his defensive back position and evolved into a feared, shutdown cornerback. Even with limited play-making opportunities, Young still recorded five takeaways and tied the school record for career interceptions. "He's always been a great cover guy, and I think he just took his cover skills to a new level this year," Chillicothe coach Phil Willard said. "He's a complete player, really, on both sides."

Lineman sets tone for Maryville

News-Press offensive player of the year

Clint Thompson sat in the locker room at Jerry Litton Stadium three years ago, trying desperately to quell his nerves. An apprehensive, 15-year-old sophomore, the Maryville offensive lineman mentally prepared himself for his first varsity start against bitter conference rival Chillicothe. Even now, that singular memory seems crystal clear. "I was just in the locker room, and I was super nervous," Thompson said. "I was kind of shocked and had the deer-in-the-headlights look."

Savannah bruises past Excelsior

SAVANNAH, Mo. - Just three weeks removed from football season, Chandler Hanna put his gridiron instincts to good use. The Savannah senior looked more like a defensive back than a shooting forward when he picked off a pass at half court and drew a foul at the other end in the semifinals of the Savannah Invitational. His two free throws gave the Savages a double-digit lead once again on the way to a 51-40 victory Wednesday against Excelsior Springs. "I guess I just read it and made a break on the play," Hanna said.

Northwest defense ready to prove itself

Sean Paddock knows all about Central Washington's stellar defense by now. He's listened to facts and figures about the Wildcats' ferocity all week. But the Northwest Missouri State standout defensive end is eager for today's Division II quarterfinal contest in Ellensburg, Wash. As much as anyone else, he's excited to see how his Bearcats stack up against Central Washington's vaunted defensive unit.

Christian, Mound City ready for rematch in 8-man title game

Considering his team's recent track record, you'd think St. Joseph Christian's David Welchert would just as soon avoid another rematch with Mound City's powerhouse program. Quite the opposite, as it turns out. The Lions' senior linebacker suffered through three straight losses to the mighty Panthers during the past two seasons but is glad to square off against them once again during today's 8-man Show-Me Bowl contest at Edward Jones Dome.

Andy Meyer

Sports Reporter

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