DENVER – Fort Hays State maintained its level overall record by splitting a doubleheader at MSU Denver on Tuesday (Apr. 6). The Tigers won game one 4-0 behind a strong pitching effort by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5891">Megan Jamison</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5893">Michaelanne Nelson</a>, but came up one run short in game two by a score of 4-3. FHSU is now 14-14 overall, while MSU Denver moved to 14-6 on the season. Game 1: Fort Hays State 4, MSU Denver 0 <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5891">Megan Jamison</a>&nbsp;gave the Tigers a big effort in the pitching circle, holding MSU Denver scoreless through four innings. She scattered four hits and struck out one in that span as the Tigers held on to a 1-0 lead through five innings. After Jamison escaped some trouble in the fourth inning,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5893">Michaelanne Nelson</a>&nbsp;took over in the circle for the final three innings. She was able to preserve the win for Jamison, who was making her second start of the season, by holding the Roadrunners scoreless for three more innings. It was the first combined shutout by the Tigers this season and Nelson earned her first save of the season. Nelson allowed just two hits and a walk, while striking out two. The Tigers scored their first run in the first inning when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5957">Jessica Espinoza</a>&nbsp;drew a bases loaded walk. The Tigers had several chances to break the game open early on as they loaded the bases in each of the first three innings, but could not score more than just the one run. After leaving 12 runners on base through the first five innings, the Tigers finally broke through in the sixth when Espinoza ripped a ball up the middle hard enough to roll all the way to the fence between the center fielder and right fielder. It resulted in a 2-RBI triple for Espinoza, moving her RBI total for the game to three. In the seventh,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5896">Lily Sale</a>&nbsp;tacked on another run with a deep solo home run to center field. Destinee Lopez took the loss for the Roadrunners in the pitching circle, though she threw a complete game. She allowed 10 hits, walked five, and struck out three. Game 2: MSU Denver 4, Fort Hays State 3 The Tigers fell down 4-0 in game two before putting together a fourth-inning rally to pull within a run of the Roadrunners. However, they could not find any more runs over the final three innings as they fell 4-3. MSU Denver did its offensive damage early, scoring two runs in the first and third innings. An RBI single and a wild pitch produced the first two runs of the game for the Roadrunners. A solo home run and then a pair of doubles produced the two runs in the third, chasing FHSU starter&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5887">Hailey Chapman</a>&nbsp;from the game through 2.1 innings. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5891">Megan Jamison</a>&nbsp;continued her great day in the pitching circle by holding the Roadrunners scoreless in 3.2 innings of relief. She allowed just two hits and recorded her only strikeout of game two in a crucial moment right after taking over in the circle. She finished the day with 7.2 innings of scoreless work between the two contests. The Tigers promptly got back in the game in the fourth inning after Jamison ended the Roadrunner rally in the third.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5896">Lily Sale</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5886">Elise Capra</a>&nbsp;opened up the inning with back-to-back doubles to produce the first Tiger run. After a&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5890">Hannah Gates</a>&nbsp;infield single and a&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5882">Katie Adler</a>&nbsp;sacrifice bunt, Capra came in to score on a wild pitch. With two outs,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5894">Grace Philop</a>&nbsp;drove home Gates on a single. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5883">Loren Beggs</a>&nbsp;gave the Tigers a fighting shot in the seventh with a one-out double, but a strikeout and flyout secured a win in relief for Darby McGhee. She pitched the final 3.1 innings for MSU Denver, allowing just two hits to the Tigers after stopping the FHSU rally in the fourth. She struck out three batters. Chapman took the loss for FHSU, allowing four runs on seven hits and a walk with one strikeout. The Tigers will prep for another key MIAA doubleheader on Saturday (Apr. 10) at home when they host Nebraska-Kearney. The doubleheader begins at 1 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

DENVER – Fort Hays State maintained its level overall record by splitting a doubleheader at MSU Denver on Tuesday (Apr. 6). The Tigers won game one 4-0 behind a strong pitching effort by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5891">Megan Jamison</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5893">Michaelanne Nelson</a>, but came up one run short in game two by a score of 4-3. FHSU is now 14-14 overall, while MSU Denver moved to 14-6 on the season. Game 1: Fort Hays State 4, MSU Denver 0 <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5891">Megan Jamison</a>&nbsp;gave the Tigers a big effort in the pitching circle, holding MSU Denver scoreless through four innings. She scattered four hits and struck out one in that span as the Tigers held on to a 1-0 lead through five innings. After Jamison escaped some trouble in the fourth inning,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5893">Michaelanne Nelson</a>&nbsp;took over in the circle for the final three innings. She was able to preserve the win for Jamison, who was making her second start of the season, by holding the Roadrunners scoreless for three more innings. It was the first combined shutout by the Tigers this season and Nelson earned her first save of the season. Nelson allowed just two hits and a walk, while striking out two. The Tigers scored their first run in the first inning when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5957">Jessica Espinoza</a>&nbsp;drew a bases loaded walk. The Tigers had several chances to break the game open early on as they loaded the bases in each of the first three innings, but could not score more than just the one run. After leaving 12 runners on base through the first five innings, the Tigers finally broke through in the sixth when Espinoza ripped a ball up the middle hard enough to roll all the way to the fence between the center fielder and right fielder. It resulted in a 2-RBI triple for Espinoza, moving her RBI total for the game to three. In the seventh,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5896">Lily Sale</a>&nbsp;tacked on another run with a deep solo home run to center field. Destinee Lopez took the loss for the Roadrunners in the pitching circle, though she threw a complete game. She allowed 10 hits, walked five, and struck out three. Game 2: MSU Denver 4, Fort Hays State 3 The Tigers fell down 4-0 in game two before putting together a fourth-inning rally to pull within a run of the Roadrunners. However, they could not find any more runs over the final three innings as they fell 4-3. MSU Denver did its offensive damage early, scoring two runs in the first and third innings. An RBI single and a wild pitch produced the first two runs of the game for the Roadrunners. A solo home run and then a pair of doubles produced the two runs in the third, chasing FHSU starter&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5887">Hailey Chapman</a>&nbsp;from the game through 2.1 innings. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5891">Megan Jamison</a>&nbsp;continued her great day in the pitching circle by holding the Roadrunners scoreless in 3.2 innings of relief. She allowed just two hits and recorded her only strikeout of game two in a crucial moment right after taking over in the circle. She finished the day with 7.2 innings of scoreless work between the two contests. The Tigers promptly got back in the game in the fourth inning after Jamison ended the Roadrunner rally in the third.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5896">Lily Sale</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5886">Elise Capra</a>&nbsp;opened up the inning with back-to-back doubles to produce the first Tiger run. After a&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5890">Hannah Gates</a>&nbsp;infield single and a&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5882">Katie Adler</a>&nbsp;sacrifice bunt, Capra came in to score on a wild pitch. With two outs,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5894">Grace Philop</a>&nbsp;drove home Gates on a single. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5883">Loren Beggs</a>&nbsp;gave the Tigers a fighting shot in the seventh with a one-out double, but a strikeout and flyout secured a win in relief for Darby McGhee. She pitched the final 3.1 innings for MSU Denver, allowing just two hits to the Tigers after stopping the FHSU rally in the fourth. She struck out three batters. Chapman took the loss for FHSU, allowing four runs on seven hits and a walk with one strikeout. The Tigers will prep for another key MIAA doubleheader on Saturday (Apr. 10) at home when they host Nebraska-Kearney. The doubleheader begins at 1 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

🥎 Tigers split with Roadrunners

DODGE CITY - The Hays High softball broke a
scoreless tie with a run in the top of the fourth inning Tuesday in Dodge City
but the Red Demons answered with two in the bottom of the frame then added
three in the fifth and beat the Indians 6-1.

Branna Schwien scored the Indians
lone run on Lakyn Zimmerman two-out single to center.

The Red Demons took advantage of two
errors to score two unearned runs in the bottom of the fourth. Two of their
three runs in the next inning came off an Indian error.

Aubree Thomas allowed only on earned
run on eight hits with 10 strikeouts and two walks but took the loss for HHS
who drops to 2-1 on the season.

The Indians will host Dodge City
Thursday at 6:00 p.m. at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.

DODGE CITY - The Hays High softball broke a
scoreless tie with a run in the top of the fourth inning Tuesday in Dodge City
but the Red Demons answered with two in the bottom of the frame then added
three in the fifth and beat the Indians 6-1.Branna Schwien scored the Indians
lone run on Lakyn Zimmerman two-out single to center.The Red Demons took advantage of two
errors to score two unearned runs in the bottom of the fourth. Two of their
three runs in the next inning came off an Indian error.Aubree Thomas allowed only on earned
run on eight hits with 10 strikeouts and two walks but took the loss for HHS
who drops to 2-1 on the season.The Indians will host Dodge City
Thursday at 6:00 p.m. at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex.

🥎 Errors cost HHS at Dodge City 

HAYS - The TMP-Marian softball team opened
the 2021 season with a doubleheader sweep of Colby at the TMP Field. The
Monarchs won the opener 4-3 in nine innings then outslugged the Eagles 18-15 in
the second game.

Game 1: TMP-Marian 4, Colby 3 (9 innings) 
Alexa Ryersee reached
on a leadoff walk than scored the winning run on a throwing error following a
Jessica Herrman single in the bottom of the ninth.

The Monarchs led 2-1 entering the
seventh but the Eagles forced extra innings with a run in the top of the seventh.

Emilee Augustine scored the tying
run in the eighth off of Halle Dreiling’s two-out double to left field.

Kyliegh Allen went the distance in the
circle, allowing three runs on eight hits with nine strikeouts and two walks.

Game 2: TMP-Marian 18, Colby 14 
The Monarchs erased a 7-0 deficit with six runs in the second and six in the
fourth. They added four in the bottom of the sixth to build a five-run lead.
Colby answered with two runs in the top of the seventh and had the bases loaded
with one out before Kyliegh Allen got a pup up and strikeout to end the game.

Allen pitched the final six innings in
relief to get the win. She allowed 10 runs on 15 hits with two strikeouts and
three walks. Starter Madison Augustine allowed five runs on four hits in one
inning of work.

Allen and Hannah Garcia both had
four of the Indians 21 hits. Emilee Augustine and Sophia Coulter both tripled and
had three hits each. Augustine drove in four runs and Coulter two. 

HAYS - The TMP-Marian softball team opened
the 2021 season with a doubleheader sweep of Colby at the TMP Field. The
Monarchs won the opener 4-3 in nine innings then outslugged the Eagles 18-15 in
the second game.Game 1: TMP-Marian 4, Colby 3 (9 innings) 
Alexa Ryersee reached
on a leadoff walk than scored the winning run on a throwing error following a
Jessica Herrman single in the bottom of the ninth. The Monarchs led 2-1 entering the
seventh but the Eagles forced extra innings with a run in the top of the seventh.Emilee Augustine scored the tying
run in the eighth off of Halle Dreiling’s two-out double to left field.Kyliegh Allen went the distance in the
circle, allowing three runs on eight hits with nine strikeouts and two walks.Game 2: TMP-Marian 18, Colby 14 
The Monarchs erased a 7-0 deficit with six runs in the second and six in the
fourth. They added four in the bottom of the sixth to build a five-run lead.
Colby answered with two runs in the top of the seventh and had the bases loaded
with one out before Kyliegh Allen got a pup up and strikeout to end the game.Allen pitched the final six innings in
relief to get the win. She allowed 10 runs on 15 hits with two strikeouts and
three walks. Starter Madison Augustine allowed five runs on four hits in one
inning of work.Allen and Hannah Garcia both had
four of the Indians 21 hits. Emilee Augustine and Sophia Coulter both tripled and
had three hits each. Augustine drove in four runs and Coulter two.

🥎 TMP-Marian sweeps Colby to open season

HAYS - The TMP-Marian girls' soccer team improved to 3-1 on the season after defeating Life Prep Academy 10-0 Tuesday.

The Monarchs play at Dodge City Thursday.

HAYS - The TMP-Marian girls' soccer team improved to 3-1 on the season after defeating Life Prep Academy 10-0 Tuesday.The Monarchs play at Dodge City Thursday.

⚽ TMP-Marian shutouts Life Prep

The Kansas State High School Athletics Association announced
the 2021 postseason regional baseball assignments this week.

The Hays High Indians will be a part of the west regional
hosted by Maize South. The region will be divided into four regions. The
highest four seeds will host.

In class 3A TMP will host their own regional. 

Beloit, Ellsworth, Hoisington/Central Plains, Larned,
Lincoln/Sylvan-Lucas, Minneapolis and Russell/Victoria and TMP-Marian will all
take part in the regional.

The 3A sub-state is set for May 17 &amp; 19.

Republic County, Bennington, Ell-Saline, Ellinwood, Ellis,
Inman, Little River and Sacred Heart will take part in the regional.

The Kansas State High School Athletics Association announced
the 2021 postseason regional baseball assignments this week.The Hays High Indians will be a part of the west regional
hosted by Maize South. The region will be divided into four regions. The
highest four seeds will host.The 5A regional is set for May 17-21.In class 3A TMP will host their own regional. Beloit, Ellsworth, Hoisington/Central Plains, Larned,
Lincoln/Sylvan-Lucas, Minneapolis and Russell/Victoria and TMP-Marian will all
take part in the regional.The 3A sub-state is set for May 17 &amp; 19.Ellis will host a 2-1A regional.Republic County, Bennington, Ell-Saline, Ellinwood, Ellis,
Inman, Little River and Sacred Heart will take part in the regional.The 2-1A sub-state is May 17 &amp; 20.

⚾KSHSAA announces regional assignments

The Kansas State High School Activities Association announced
the softball regional assignments this week.

Hays High will be a part of the west regional hosts by Maize
South. The regional will be divided into four regionals with the highest four
seeds playing host. The 5A regional is set for May 17-21.

TMP will be a part of the 3A Larned regional.

Beloit, Ellsworth, Hoisington/Central Plains, Larned,
Plainville/Stockton, Russell/Victoria and Sylvan-Lucas/Lincoln will also take
part in the sub-state.

In 2A Ellis will be a part of the Ell-Saline regional.

Republic County, Bennington, Ell-Saline, Ellinwood, Little
River, Sacred Heart and Sterling will also take part in the regional.

The softball regional is set for May 18 &amp; 20.

The Kansas State High School Activities Association announced
the softball regional assignments this week.Hays High will be a part of the west regional hosts by Maize
South. The regional will be divided into four regionals with the highest four
seeds playing host. The 5A regional is set for May 17-21.TMP will be a part of the 3A Larned regional.Beloit, Ellsworth, Hoisington/Central Plains, Larned,
Plainville/Stockton, Russell/Victoria and Sylvan-Lucas/Lincoln will also take
part in the sub-state.The regional is set for May 17 &amp; 19.In 2A Ellis will be a part of the Ell-Saline regional.Republic County, Bennington, Ell-Saline, Ellinwood, Little
River, Sacred Heart and Sterling will also take part in the regional.The softball regional is set for May 18 &amp; 20.

🥎KSHSAA announces regional assignments

DODGE CITY - The Hays High girls' soccer team evened their record at 2-2 with a 2-0 win over Dodge City Tuesday.

Katie Dinkel and Allison Shubert both scored goals the the Indians. Dinkel's came on an assist from Maia Lummus and Shubert's on a free kick.

The Indians are 2-2 on the season and 1-0 in the Western Athletic Conference.

DODGE CITY - The Hays High girls' soccer team evened their record at 2-2 with a 2-0 win over Dodge City Tuesday.Katie Dinkel and Allison Shubert both scored goals the the Indians. Dinkel's came on an assist from Maia Lummus and Shubert's on a free kick.The Indians are 2-2 on the season and 1-0 in the Western Athletic Conference.

⚽ HHS wins in Dodge City

WARRENSBURG, Mo. – Fort Hays State Men's Golf competed at The Mule, hosted by Central Missouri on Monday and Tuesday (Apr. 5-6).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5901">Bryce Cowan</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers with a three-round total of 231, helping the team to a 20th&nbsp;place finish. Cowan finished at 21-over par over three rounds, carding rounds of 75, 80, and 76.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5900">Tanner Copeland</a>, who led the Tigers through two rounds of play after rounds of 75 and 76, shot 83 in the final round to finish three strokes back of Cowan.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5899">Colton Bobek</a>&nbsp;was the only Tiger to shoot in the 70s all three rounds, carding 77-79-79.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5904">Marcus Willey</a>&nbsp;matched Cowan and Copeland in the first round with a 75 and was second among the Tigers after a second-round 77, but finished with an 86 in the final round. After shooting 83 and 84,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5905">Dustin Nichols</a>&nbsp;figured into the team score in the final round with a 79. The Tigers shot 931 as a team, posting team scores of 302, 312, and 317. Washburn won the tournament as a team at just 10-over par with a total of 850. Central Missouri was second three strokes back, and Rogers State was third six strokes back of the lead. There was a four-way tie for first place between Nick Westrich of Central Missouri, Chris Ferris of Missouri-St. Louis, Andrew Beckler of Washburn, and Carlos Gomez of Northeastern State, all at even par. Ferris won the individual playoff after two holes. The Tigers are scheduled to travel to Pueblo, Colorado next week for the Southern Colorado Masters, April 12-13.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617803042183.jpeg" alt="Courtesy FHSU Athletics (Seth Kincaid)" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy FHSU Athletics (Seth Kincaid)</figcaption>
 </figure>WARRENSBURG, Mo. – Fort Hays State Men's Golf competed at The Mule, hosted by Central Missouri on Monday and Tuesday (Apr. 5-6).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5901">Bryce Cowan</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers with a three-round total of 231, helping the team to a 20th&nbsp;place finish. Cowan finished at 21-over par over three rounds, carding rounds of 75, 80, and 76.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5900">Tanner Copeland</a>, who led the Tigers through two rounds of play after rounds of 75 and 76, shot 83 in the final round to finish three strokes back of Cowan.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5899">Colton Bobek</a>&nbsp;was the only Tiger to shoot in the 70s all three rounds, carding 77-79-79.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5904">Marcus Willey</a>&nbsp;matched Cowan and Copeland in the first round with a 75 and was second among the Tigers after a second-round 77, but finished with an 86 in the final round. After shooting 83 and 84,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5905">Dustin Nichols</a>&nbsp;figured into the team score in the final round with a 79. The Tigers shot 931 as a team, posting team scores of 302, 312, and 317. Washburn won the tournament as a team at just 10-over par with a total of 850. Central Missouri was second three strokes back, and Rogers State was third six strokes back of the lead. There was a four-way tie for first place between Nick Westrich of Central Missouri, Chris Ferris of Missouri-St. Louis, Andrew Beckler of Washburn, and Carlos Gomez of Northeastern State, all at even par. Ferris won the individual playoff after two holes. The Tigers are scheduled to travel to Pueblo, Colorado next week for the Southern Colorado Masters, April 12-13.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

⛳ Cowan leads Tiger men at The Mule

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State Men's Soccer moved back into the United Soccer Coaches Top 25 Poll on Tuesday (Apr. 6), holding a ranking of No. 19. After receiving votes in the previous poll, the Tigers moved back inside the Top 20 for the second time this season after a win over Northeastern State and a draw with No. 8 ranked Rogers State. This is the second time this spring season the Tigers have held a Top 25 ranking. The Tigers were No. 13 in the first poll released by United Soccer Coaches this spring on March 9. The GAC will feature two nationally ranked teams as the conference tournament begins this Saturday. Rogers State, the No. 1 seed in the tournament, remains No. 8 in the national rankings with a 4-0-2 record. The Tigers are the No. 2 seed an enter at 4-1-1. Fort Hays State will play No. 3 seed Northeastern State in the conference tournament semifinals on Saturday. The RiverHawks received votes in the previous national poll, but are not referenced in the latest edition. Rank	School	Prev	W-L-T 1	University Of Charleston	1	6-0-0 2	Franklin Pierce University	2	4-0-0 3	Lander University	4	8-0-0 4	University Of Indianapolis	6	10-0-1 5	Point Loma Nazarene University	5	5-0-0 6	West Texas A&amp;M University	NR	6-1-0 7	Lenoir-Rhyne University	10	4-0-1 8	Rogers State University	8	4-0-2 9	Davis &amp; Elkins College	15	5-1-0 10	Union University	21	6-1-0 11	Colorado School Of Mines	14	4-0-1 12	Maryville University of St. Louis	3	9-2-0 13	Ohio Valley University	9	4-0-1 14	Carson-Newman University	NR	7-1-1 15	Colorado Mesa University	NR	2-0-1 16	Saginaw Valley State University	23	5-0-0 17	Mississippi College	7	5-1-0 18	St. Mary's University (Texas)	16	6-2-0 19	Fort Hays State University	RV	4-1-1 20	Fresno Pacific University	13	5-1-1 21	University Of Tampa	RV	2-0-1 22	Concordia College (NY)	20	4-1-0 23	Palm Beach Atlantic University	12	1-1-1 24	Erskine College	NR	5-0-0 25	Wingate University	11	4-1-1

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State Men's Soccer moved back into the United Soccer Coaches Top 25 Poll on Tuesday (Apr. 6), holding a ranking of No. 19. After receiving votes in the previous poll, the Tigers moved back inside the Top 20 for the second time this season after a win over Northeastern State and a draw with No. 8 ranked Rogers State. This is the second time this spring season the Tigers have held a Top 25 ranking. The Tigers were No. 13 in the first poll released by United Soccer Coaches this spring on March 9. The GAC will feature two nationally ranked teams as the conference tournament begins this Saturday. Rogers State, the No. 1 seed in the tournament, remains No. 8 in the national rankings with a 4-0-2 record. The Tigers are the No. 2 seed an enter at 4-1-1. Fort Hays State will play No. 3 seed Northeastern State in the conference tournament semifinals on Saturday. The RiverHawks received votes in the previous national poll, but are not referenced in the latest edition. Rank	School	Prev	W-L-T 1	University Of Charleston	1	6-0-0 2	Franklin Pierce University	2	4-0-0 3	Lander University	4	8-0-0 4	University Of Indianapolis	6	10-0-1 5	Point Loma Nazarene University	5	5-0-0 6	West Texas A&amp;M University	NR	6-1-0 7	Lenoir-Rhyne University	10	4-0-1 8	Rogers State University	8	4-0-2 9	Davis &amp; Elkins College	15	5-1-0 10	Union University	21	6-1-0 11	Colorado School Of Mines	14	4-0-1 12	Maryville University of St. Louis	3	9-2-0 13	Ohio Valley University	9	4-0-1 14	Carson-Newman University	NR	7-1-1 15	Colorado Mesa University	NR	2-0-1 16	Saginaw Valley State University	23	5-0-0 17	Mississippi College	7	5-1-0 18	St. Mary's University (Texas)	16	6-2-0 19	Fort Hays State University	RV	4-1-1 20	Fresno Pacific University	13	5-1-1 21	University Of Tampa	RV	2-0-1 22	Concordia College (NY)	20	4-1-0 23	Palm Beach Atlantic University	12	1-1-1 24	Erskine College	NR	5-0-0 25	Wingate University	11	4-1-1

⚽Men’s Soccer Moves Back into National Rankings at No. 19

&nbsp;The Fort Hays State Tennis match at Nebraska-Kearney, originally scheduled for Wednesday, April 7, has been moved to Saturday, April 10 due to forecasted weather. 

The match will start at 1:30 pm at Harmon Park in Kearney. Both teams will be looking for their first MIAA win of the season.

&nbsp;The Fort Hays State Tennis match at Nebraska-Kearney, originally scheduled for Wednesday, April 7, has been moved to Saturday, April 10 due to forecasted weather. The match will start at 1:30 pm at Harmon Park in Kearney. Both teams will be looking for their first MIAA win of the season.

🎾Tennis Match at UNK Rescheduled for Saturday, April 10

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – With its second-place finish in the Great American Conference Men's Soccer spring season standings, Fort Hays State will be the No. 2 seed in the conference tournament starting this Saturday. The top four teams from the 2020-21 spring standings will play in the tournament. FHSU hosts No. 3 seed Northeastern State, while No. 1 seed Rogers State hosts No. 4 seed Southern Nazarene in the semifinal round on Saturday (Apr. 10). The winners of those two matches will advance on to the tournament championship match the following Saturday (Apr. 17) at the site of the highest seed remaining in the tournament. Semifinal Matches – Saturday, April 10 #2 Fort Hays State vs. #3 Northeastern State – at Hays, Kan., 1 pm –&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">WATCH LIVE</a>&nbsp;I&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sidearmstats/msoc/summary">LIVE STATS</a> #1 Rogers State vs. #4 Southern Nazarene – at Claremore, Okla., 7 pm –&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/rogersstate/">WATCH LIVE</a>&nbsp;I&nbsp;<a href="https://rsuhillcats.com/sidearmstats/msoc/summary">LIVE STATS</a> Championship Match – Saturday, April 17 Winner of FHSU/NSU vs. Winner of RSU/NSU – at highest seed remaining – Time TBD Rogers State finished first in the conference standings by navigating six matches without a loss, going 4-0-2. FHSU was right on the heels of Rogers State, finishing 4-1-1 in the brief six-game slate. Northeastern State was 4-2 overall, while Southern Nazarene finished 3-3. Fort Hays State won its meeting with Northeastern State two weeks ago in Hays by a score of 2-1. The Tigers went up 2-0 in the match before a goal by NSU within the last eight minutes made the match interesting late.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617720971265.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – With its second-place finish in the Great American Conference Men's Soccer spring season standings, Fort Hays State will be the No. 2 seed in the conference tournament starting this Saturday. The top four teams from the 2020-21 spring standings will play in the tournament. FHSU hosts No. 3 seed Northeastern State, while No. 1 seed Rogers State hosts No. 4 seed Southern Nazarene in the semifinal round on Saturday (Apr. 10). The winners of those two matches will advance on to the tournament championship match the following Saturday (Apr. 17) at the site of the highest seed remaining in the tournament. Semifinal Matches – Saturday, April 10 #2 Fort Hays State vs. #3 Northeastern State – at Hays, Kan., 1 pm –&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">WATCH LIVE</a>&nbsp;I&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sidearmstats/msoc/summary">LIVE STATS</a> #1 Rogers State vs. #4 Southern Nazarene – at Claremore, Okla., 7 pm –&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/rogersstate/">WATCH LIVE</a>&nbsp;I&nbsp;<a href="https://rsuhillcats.com/sidearmstats/msoc/summary">LIVE STATS</a> Championship Match – Saturday, April 17 Winner of FHSU/NSU vs. Winner of RSU/NSU – at highest seed remaining – Time TBD Rogers State finished first in the conference standings by navigating six matches without a loss, going 4-0-2. FHSU was right on the heels of Rogers State, finishing 4-1-1 in the brief six-game slate. Northeastern State was 4-2 overall, while Southern Nazarene finished 3-3. Fort Hays State won its meeting with Northeastern State two weeks ago in Hays by a score of 2-1. The Tigers went up 2-0 in the match before a goal by NSU within the last eight minutes made the match interesting late.&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚽ Tiger men No. 2 seed in GAC Tourney, face RiverHawks in semis

CLEVELAND (AP) — Danny Duffy’s days of being bullied by the Indians are over. He’s hitting back.

Duffy, who went more than two years without a win over Cleveland, pitched six innings of two-hit ball to beat a longtime nemesis and Whit Merrifield drove in all of Kansas City’s runs with a homer and sacrifice fly, leading the Royals over the Indians 3-0 on Monday.

Duffy (1-0) came in with 12 career losses against the Indians — his most against any team. But the left-hander was in control from the outset and gave the Royals their best start of the young season.

“There’s a whole new Danny Duffy out there,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “It’s just looks like he’s on a mission.”

The Indians played their home opener in front of fans for the first time since 2019. The announced attendance of 8,914 —- 30% of ballpark capacity was permitted — was a nice change from last season, when fans couldn’t attend due to the COVID-19 pandemic and health and safety protocols.

“Having people in the seats gives you that extra boost of adrenaline,” said Merrifield, who connected for a two-run homer in the second and added a sacrifice fly in the seventh. “Even the boos were missed last year.”

Merrifield is the first Royals player to homer three times in the first four games, and his nine RBIs in the first four are a club record.

Scott Barlow pitched two perfect innings and Jesse Hahn put two on in the ninth before Royals first baseman Carlos Santana, who signed with the club as a free agent this winter after 10 seasons in Cleveland, made a diving stop on Eddie Rosario’s smash to start a double play.

“I’m trying to go through in my head how many first basemen in the league make that play, or maybe even attempt to make that play,” Matheny said. “That was amazing, how one play can take the air out of the opposition. We’re in a bad spot right there if that ball gets by. That’s a game-changing defensive play.”

Hahn then retired Franmil Reyes on a hard comebacker that caromed off the right-hander to complete Kansas City’s three-hit shutout and get the save.

Duffy has won three of his last four starts against the Indians since losing eight straight, and he’s pitched 11 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings in his past two outings versus Cleveland.

“Every year is a new year,” Duffy said. “I had a stretch there where they had my number, especially in this place. I had to figure out a lot of things, it just took me a while.”

Merrifield connected for his third homer in the second inning off Indians starter Logan Allen (0-1), who grooved a 3-0 pitch that Kansas City’s second baseman pounced upon.

A three-run deficit was too much for the Indians, who have scored two runs or less in three of their first four games.

“We’re not stringing them together,” Indians manager Terry Francona said. “We did hit some balls hard. And I don’t ever want to talk down our offense, because that’s not what we’re here for. But we’re going to have to string some together.”

The last time Cleveland played in front of fans at Progressive Field was on Sept. 22, 2019, a 10-1 win over Philadelphia.

“It’s nice to have people in the stands, there’s no getting around it,” Francona said. “I’ll enjoy it more when we’re ahead on the scoreboard. The closer we get to normalcy, the happier everybody is. Not just in baseball, but everywhere.”

More than a dozen protesters gathered outside the ballpark to voice their displeasure at the Indians’ delay in changing their name. Cleveland owner Paul Dolan announced in December the ballclub will be dropping Indians, its name since 1915, in the future.

That’s not soon enough for Native American groups of have decried the name as being racist.

“It’s absolutely disappointing, disheartening, but not surprising,” said Jeff Pierce, president of People Not Mascots. “They’ve been saying they’re going to do this for the last 30 plus years, never been done. I’ll believe it when I see it.”

With longtime drummer and ballpark fixture John Adams recovering from health issues, Black Keys drummer Patrick Carney filled in and pounded a steady beat when the Indians batted.

Carney, who first attended Cleveland games as a little boy, said it was his first “live” gig since Black Keys’ last show in January 2020.

It didn’t take long for Santana to make a strong impression on the Royals, who signed him to a three-year, $17.5 million deal.

“Just because a kid changes uniforms, that doesn’t mean it’s going to change the way he behaves himself or acts,” Francona said. “I certainly can’t root for him to beat us, but we’re not any less fond of him because he’s in a Royals uniform.”

Following an off day, Cy Young winner Shane Bieber will make his second start of 2021 against the Royals, who have not yet announced a starter. Bieber struck out 12 in his season debut last week at Detroit.

CLEVELAND (AP) — Danny Duffy’s days of being bullied by the Indians are over. He’s hitting back.Duffy, who went more than two years without a win over Cleveland, pitched six innings of two-hit ball to beat a longtime nemesis and Whit Merrifield drove in all of Kansas City’s runs with a homer and sacrifice fly, leading the Royals over the Indians 3-0 on Monday.Duffy (1-0) came in with 12 career losses against the Indians — his most against any team. But the left-hander was in control from the outset and gave the Royals their best start of the young season.“There’s a whole new Danny Duffy out there,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “It’s just looks like he’s on a mission.”The Indians played their home opener in front of fans for the first time since 2019. The announced attendance of 8,914 —- 30% of ballpark capacity was permitted — was a nice change from last season, when fans couldn’t attend due to the COVID-19 pandemic and health and safety protocols.“Having people in the seats gives you that extra boost of adrenaline,” said Merrifield, who connected for a two-run homer in the second and added a sacrifice fly in the seventh. “Even the boos were missed last year.”Merrifield is the first Royals player to homer three times in the first four games, and his nine RBIs in the first four are a club record.Scott Barlow pitched two perfect innings and Jesse Hahn put two on in the ninth before Royals first baseman Carlos Santana, who signed with the club as a free agent this winter after 10 seasons in Cleveland, made a diving stop on Eddie Rosario’s smash to start a double play.“I’m trying to go through in my head how many first basemen in the league make that play, or maybe even attempt to make that play,” Matheny said. “That was amazing, how one play can take the air out of the opposition. We’re in a bad spot right there if that ball gets by. That’s a game-changing defensive play.”Hahn then retired Franmil Reyes on a hard comebacker that caromed off the right-hander to complete Kansas City’s three-hit shutout and get the save.Duffy has won three of his last four starts against the Indians since losing eight straight, and he’s pitched 11 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings in his past two outings versus Cleveland.“Every year is a new year,” Duffy said. “I had a stretch there where they had my number, especially in this place. I had to figure out a lot of things, it just took me a while.”Merrifield connected for his third homer in the second inning off Indians starter Logan Allen (0-1), who grooved a 3-0 pitch that Kansas City’s second baseman pounced upon.A three-run deficit was too much for the Indians, who have scored two runs or less in three of their first four games.“We’re not stringing them together,” Indians manager Terry Francona said. “We did hit some balls hard. And I don’t ever want to talk down our offense, because that’s not what we’re here for. But we’re going to have to string some together.”The last time Cleveland played in front of fans at Progressive Field was on Sept. 22, 2019, a 10-1 win over Philadelphia.“It’s nice to have people in the stands, there’s no getting around it,” Francona said. “I’ll enjoy it more when we’re ahead on the scoreboard. The closer we get to normalcy, the happier everybody is. Not just in baseball, but everywhere.”NAME PROTESTMore than a dozen protesters gathered outside the ballpark to voice their displeasure at the Indians’ delay in changing their name. Cleveland owner Paul Dolan announced in December the ballclub will be dropping Indians, its name since 1915, in the future.That’s not soon enough for Native American groups of have decried the name as being racist.“It’s absolutely disappointing, disheartening, but not surprising,” said Jeff Pierce, president of People Not Mascots. “They’ve been saying they’re going to do this for the last 30 plus years, never been done. I’ll believe it when I see it.”THE BEAT GOES ONWith longtime drummer and ballpark fixture John Adams recovering from health issues, Black Keys drummer Patrick Carney filled in and pounded a steady beat when the Indians batted.Carney, who first attended Cleveland games as a little boy, said it was his first “live” gig since Black Keys’ last show in January 2020.ON THE OTHER SIDEIt didn’t take long for Santana to make a strong impression on the Royals, who signed him to a three-year, $17.5 million deal.“Just because a kid changes uniforms, that doesn’t mean it’s going to change the way he behaves himself or acts,” Francona said. “I certainly can’t root for him to beat us, but we’re not any less fond of him because he’s in a Royals uniform.”UP NEXTFollowing an off day, Cy Young winner Shane Bieber will make his second start of 2021 against the Royals, who have not yet announced a starter. Bieber struck out 12 in his season debut last week at Detroit.

⚾ Duffy dazzles, Merrifield’s 3 RBIs lift Royals past Indians

By RALPH D. RUSSO Associated Press

Kansas has hired Northwestern administrator Travis Goff, a Sunflower State native who graduated from the school, to be its next athletic director during a crucial moment for its football program and high-profile men’s basketball program.

The school announced the hiring Monday night, shortly after reaching a deal with Goff to return to Lawrence. He will be introduced Wednesday during an on-campus event at the Lied Center.

“With a long history of success, unwavering partnership with campus leaders and the unparalleled passion of the Jayhawk fanbase, this is one of the most humbling responsibilities and opportunities in college athletics,” said Goff, who grew up in the southwestern Kansas town of Dodge City. “I’m thrilled to return to Lawrence with my family and to continue to make this department a point of pride for our entire university.”

Goff has has been at Northwestern since 2012, most recently as deputy athletic director and assistant vice president for development. He played a key role in fundraising that led to massive facilities upgrades at Northwestern and oversaw the baseball, volleyball and football programs — experience that will come in handy at Kansas.

“We are fortunate to have Travis return to Lawrence to lead our department and after speaking with him, it is clear he is exactly what we need,” basketball coach Bill Self said. “He will be a tremendous partner to all of our head coaches and sports programs and will ensure that our student-athletes have a world-class experience.”

Kansas has been searching for an athletic director since Jeff Long resigned almost a month ago.

Long was responsible for hiring Les Miles, with whom the school parted ways amid sexual misconduct allegations dating to the football coach’s time at LSU. Long initially said he would lead the search for Miles’ replacement, but criticism about the due diligence he did in hiring his longtime friend forced him to reconsider and ultimately resign.

Goff’s first big task will be to set the course for a moribund football program already going through spring practice under wide receivers coach Emmett Jones, picked to serve as the interim coach last month.

The downtrodden Jayhawks lost all nine of their games last season. They have not had a winning season since Mark Mangino was on the sideline in 2008, cycling through Turner Gill, Charlie Weis, interim coach Clint Bowen, David Beaty and Miles without finding a way to return to prominence.

Goff is expected to lead the search for the next football coach, though the timeline for that hiring remains unclear.

Along with deep-seated fan apathy, the Jayhawks have some of the worst facilities in the Big 12 — despite a new indoor practice facility — and have struggled for years to generate money and support to upgrade Memorial Stadium.

Goff also must deal with potential NCAA sanctions facing the Jayhawks’ storied basketball program.

The program was hit with five Level I charges tied to recruiting, one directed at Self, as part of the fallout of an FBI investigation into college basketball corruption. Kansas has staunchly defended itself against the allegations, and the case is going through the NCAA’s new independent appeals process, with a decision expected later this year.

“Travis understands the challenges we face and the changing landscape of collegiate athletics,” Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod said. “At the same time, he is well-positioned to help us build on our recent successes in student-athlete health care, diversity and inclusion, and student-athlete academic achievement. The fact that he is a Jayhawk is an added bonus.”

Goff returns to Lawrence having worked under former Northwestern athletic director Jim Phillips, who left the school in the Chicago suburb of Evanston earlier this year to become Atlantic Coast Conference commissioner.

Goff graduated from KU in 2002 with degrees in journalism and sociology, then earned an MBA from Tulane, where he worked as associate athletic director for external affairs.

He is the sixth athletic director for the Jayhawks since Bob Frederick retired in 2001.

“When you grow up in Dodge City like Travis and I did, you get to know everyone,” Texas A&amp;M athletic director Ross Bjork said. “I have been fortunate to know Travis and his first-class family for more than 30 years, and it is so exciting to see him become the athletics director at Kansas. As both of us have evolved in college athletics, we have become great friends. I’ve always known this day would come for Travis at the right time and the right place.”

AP Sports Writer Dave Skretta contributed to this report.

By RALPH D. RUSSO Associated PressKansas has hired Northwestern administrator Travis Goff, a Sunflower State native who graduated from the school, to be its next athletic director during a crucial moment for its football program and high-profile men’s basketball program.The school announced the hiring Monday night, shortly after reaching a deal with Goff to return to Lawrence. He will be introduced Wednesday during an on-campus event at the Lied Center.“With a long history of success, unwavering partnership with campus leaders and the unparalleled passion of the Jayhawk fanbase, this is one of the most humbling responsibilities and opportunities in college athletics,” said Goff, who grew up in the southwestern Kansas town of Dodge City. “I’m thrilled to return to Lawrence with my family and to continue to make this department a point of pride for our entire university.”Goff has has been at Northwestern since 2012, most recently as deputy athletic director and assistant vice president for development. He played a key role in fundraising that led to massive facilities upgrades at Northwestern and oversaw the baseball, volleyball and football programs — experience that will come in handy at Kansas.“We are fortunate to have Travis return to Lawrence to lead our department and after speaking with him, it is clear he is exactly what we need,” basketball coach Bill Self said. “He will be a tremendous partner to all of our head coaches and sports programs and will ensure that our student-athletes have a world-class experience.”Kansas has been searching for an athletic director since Jeff Long resigned almost a month ago.Long was responsible for hiring Les Miles, with whom the school parted ways amid sexual misconduct allegations dating to the football coach’s time at LSU. Long initially said he would lead the search for Miles’ replacement, but criticism about the due diligence he did in hiring his longtime friend forced him to reconsider and ultimately resign.Goff’s first big task will be to set the course for a moribund football program already going through spring practice under wide receivers coach Emmett Jones, picked to serve as the interim coach last month.The downtrodden Jayhawks lost all nine of their games last season. They have not had a winning season since Mark Mangino was on the sideline in 2008, cycling through Turner Gill, Charlie Weis, interim coach Clint Bowen, David Beaty and Miles without finding a way to return to prominence.Goff is expected to lead the search for the next football coach, though the timeline for that hiring remains unclear.Along with deep-seated fan apathy, the Jayhawks have some of the worst facilities in the Big 12 — despite a new indoor practice facility — and have struggled for years to generate money and support to upgrade Memorial Stadium.Goff also must deal with potential NCAA sanctions facing the Jayhawks’ storied basketball program.The program was hit with five Level I charges tied to recruiting, one directed at Self, as part of the fallout of an FBI investigation into college basketball corruption. Kansas has staunchly defended itself against the allegations, and the case is going through the NCAA’s new independent appeals process, with a decision expected later this year.“Travis understands the challenges we face and the changing landscape of collegiate athletics,” Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod said. “At the same time, he is well-positioned to help us build on our recent successes in student-athlete health care, diversity and inclusion, and student-athlete academic achievement. The fact that he is a Jayhawk is an added bonus.”Goff returns to Lawrence having worked under former Northwestern athletic director Jim Phillips, who left the school in the Chicago suburb of Evanston earlier this year to become Atlantic Coast Conference commissioner.Goff graduated from KU in 2002 with degrees in journalism and sociology, then earned an MBA from Tulane, where he worked as associate athletic director for external affairs.He is the sixth athletic director for the Jayhawks since Bob Frederick retired in 2001.“When you grow up in Dodge City like Travis and I did, you get to know everyone,” Texas A&amp;M athletic director Ross Bjork said. “I have been fortunate to know Travis and his first-class family for more than 30 years, and it is so exciting to see him become the athletics director at Kansas. As both of us have evolved in college athletics, we have become great friends. I’ve always known this day would come for Travis at the right time and the right place.”___AP Sports Writer Dave Skretta contributed to this report.

Kansas hires Northwestern administrator Goff as next AD

Here is Monday's Tiger Talk with FHSU softball coach Adrian Pilkington and baseball coach Jerod Goodale.

Tiger Talk airs Monday's at 12:15 p.m. live from the Golden Q on KAYS (94.3-FM, 1400-AM).

Here is Monday's Tiger Talk with FHSU softball coach Adrian Pilkington and baseball coach Jerod Goodale.Tiger Talk airs Monday's at 12:15 p.m. live from the Golden Q on KAYS (94.3-FM, 1400-AM).<div><iframe title="Tiger Talk (Apr. 5, 2021)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=nween-ffcd5e-pb&from=pb6admin&download=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&btn-skin=2"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: Tiger Talk

Voice of the Indians Dustin Armbruster sits down with Dustin Dreher, Hays High School baseball coach, on the eve of the 2021 season.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NBlHqIlL33A"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Voice of the Indians Dustin Armbruster sits down with Dustin Dreher, Hays High School baseball coach, on the eve of the 2021 season.

🎥 'Second-first-year' head coach talks Hays High baseball

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nate Lowe hit a towering, three-run homer and the Texas Rangers figured how to hold onto a big lead, beating the Kansas City Royals 7-3 Sunday for their first win of the season.

Texas blew a five-run edge on opening day and a four-run lead Saturday. Boosted by Lowe, the Rangers avoided a sweep.

Lowe connected in the third for a 3-0 lead. He has nine RBIs in the first three games of the season, a Texas record.

Isiah Kiner-Falefa also drove in three runs. He had a two-run single in the fourth as Texas took a 6-0 lead and a homer in the ninth off Wade Davis.

Jordan Lyles (1-0) gave up two runs in 5 2/3 innings, struck out eight and allowed five hits. His eight strikeouts are the most he’s posted in a game since September 19, 2019.

“We didn’t pitch to our liking the first two games so I set the tone and it felt really good,” Lyles said. “I’m excited where my stuff is and we executed really well today.”

Texas pitchers combined for 14 strikeouts.

“We executed the game plan really well and that was the best I’ve seen Jordan pitch in a Texas uniform,” Rangers manager Chris Woodward said. “He went right after these guys and you could see the conviction he had in his pitches.”

Salvador Pérez hit a two-run homer in the Royals sixth.

Michael A. Taylor, who homered and drove in three runs in each of Kansas City’s first two games, went 1 for 4. He scored a run in the ninth on a single by Hanser Alberto off former Royals pitcher Ian Kennedy.

Brady Singer (0-1) gave up five earned run on five hits and three walks in 3 1/3 innings. He threw 77 pitches, the fewest in any of his outings in a two-year career.

“We need our starters to go deeper and we can’t expect our offense do that every night,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “So we need them to give us a chance going forward.”

Kyle Zimmer came in for relief and gave up one hits in three innings

Rangers: Kiner-Falefa was hit in the left hand by Singer in the third inning. He finished the game.

Royals: 3B Hunter Dozier didn’t play for the second straight game because his right hand is swollen. He left Thursday’s opener after apparently hurting himself on a swing. Matheny doesn’t expect Dozier to miss much time.

Rangers: Mike Foltynewicz starts the home opener against the Toronto Blue Jays on Monday.

Royals: Play at Cleveland on Monday as Danny Duffy starts after going 4-4 with a 4.95 ERA last season.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Nate Lowe hit a towering, three-run homer and the Texas Rangers figured how to hold onto a big lead, beating the Kansas City Royals 7-3 Sunday for their first win of the season.Texas blew a five-run edge on opening day and a four-run lead Saturday. Boosted by Lowe, the Rangers avoided a sweep.Lowe connected in the third for a 3-0 lead. He has nine RBIs in the first three games of the season, a Texas record.Isiah Kiner-Falefa also drove in three runs. He had a two-run single in the fourth as Texas took a 6-0 lead and a homer in the ninth off Wade Davis.Jordan Lyles (1-0) gave up two runs in 5 2/3 innings, struck out eight and allowed five hits. His eight strikeouts are the most he’s posted in a game since September 19, 2019.“We didn’t pitch to our liking the first two games so I set the tone and it felt really good,” Lyles said. “I’m excited where my stuff is and we executed really well today.”Texas pitchers combined for 14 strikeouts.“We executed the game plan really well and that was the best I’ve seen Jordan pitch in a Texas uniform,” Rangers manager Chris Woodward said. “He went right after these guys and you could see the conviction he had in his pitches.”Salvador Pérez hit a two-run homer in the Royals sixth.Michael A. Taylor, who homered and drove in three runs in each of Kansas City’s first two games, went 1 for 4. He scored a run in the ninth on a single by Hanser Alberto off former Royals pitcher Ian Kennedy.Brady Singer (0-1) gave up five earned run on five hits and three walks in 3 1/3 innings. He threw 77 pitches, the fewest in any of his outings in a two-year career.“We need our starters to go deeper and we can’t expect our offense do that every night,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “So we need them to give us a chance going forward.”Kyle Zimmer came in for relief and gave up one hits in three inningsTRAINER’S ROOMRangers: Kiner-Falefa was hit in the left hand by Singer in the third inning. He finished the game.Royals: 3B Hunter Dozier didn’t play for the second straight game because his right hand is swollen. He left Thursday’s opener after apparently hurting himself on a swing. Matheny doesn’t expect Dozier to miss much time.UP NEXTRangers: Mike Foltynewicz starts the home opener against the Toronto Blue Jays on Monday.Royals: Play at Cleveland on Monday as Danny Duffy starts after going 4-4 with a 4.95 ERA last season.

⚾ Texas tops Royals to avoid sweep

BOLIVAR, Mo. - The Fort Hays State track and field teams saw both the women's heptathlon and men's decathlon records go down this weekend at the SBU Bearcat Invitational. Three of the five Tigers that competed cleared the NCAA Division II provisional threshold in the multi-events. Mattie Rossi surpassed a 10-year-old school record in the heptathlon by 314 points with her NCAA provisional total of 4,984. The sophomore placed third in the event after posting PRs in six of the seven disciplines. She capped off day two with her best event of the day, totaling 785 points with a time of 2:22.85 in the 800m run. Taylor Savolt also cleared the provisional mark with a score of 4,585 in her first collegiate heptathlon. The freshman was fifth overall and placed in the top five in six of the seven disciplines. Her top mark on day two also came in the 800m run when she tallied 711 points with a time of 2:28.54. Senior Matthew Pieper&nbsp;broke the school record in the decathlon with a provisional total of 6,738 points. He eclipsed the old record, set four years ago, by 96 points. Pieper's top event day two event came in the 110mH when he earned 812 points thanks to a time of 15.31. The Colby, Kan. native placed fourth overall at the meet. Jack Pakkebier was just behind Pieper in fifth with a two-day total of 6,256 points in his first-ever collegiate decathlon, less than 70 points shy of the provisional threshold. The sophomore had the best toss in the field in the discus, totaling 641 points with a toss of 127-6. Pakkebier's top event on day two was also the 110m hurdles, where he crossed the line in 16.34 to total 695 points. Nolan Churchman placed eighth overall with a score of 6,097. Also competing in his first decathlon, the freshman led the field in the final event of the day, posting a time of 4:45.04 in the 1,500m run to rack up a day-two high of 649 points. Pieper (4:46.33, 641) and Pakkebier (4:48.02, 631) finished just behind Churchman in the final race of the meet, helping the Tigers go 1-2-3 in the race. Rossi and Pieper broke the school indoor pentathlon and heptathlon records, respectively, during the 2021 indoor season. The Tigers are scheduled to return to competition next weekend when they travel to Wichita, Kan. for the K.T. Woodman Classic, hosted by Wichita State University. Full FHSU Results Women's Heptathlon 3rd - Mattie Rossi&nbsp;- 4,984 ! 100mH - 14.32 - 934 HJ - 5-5.0 - 795 SP - 32-5.75 - 523 200m - 25.20 - 869 Day 1 total - 3,121 LJ - 18-0.5 - 700 JT - 81-3 - 378 800m - 2:22.85 - 785 5th - Taylor Savolt&nbsp;- 4,585 100mH - 15.34 - 797 HJ - 4-6.25 - 491 SP - 33-3.75 - 539 200m - 25.50 - 841 Day 1 total - 2,668 LJ - 17-7.5 - 663 JT - 109-10 - 543 800m - 2:28.54 - 711 Men's Decathlon 4th - Matthew Pieper&nbsp;- 6,738 ! 100m - 11.13 - 832 LJ - 23-2.75 - 833 SP - 38-9.0 - 595 HJ - 5-11.5 - 644 400m - 50.10 - 810 Day 1 total - 3,714 110mH - 15.31 - 812 DT - 107-7 - 520 PV - 11-9.75 - 509 JT - 153-7 - 542 1500m - 4:46.33 - 641 5th - Jack Pakkebier&nbsp;- 6,256 100m - 11.34 - 786 LJ - 20-10.75 - 668 SP - 37-9.25 - 577 HJ - 5-5.75 - 520 400m - 50.46 - 794 Day 1 total - 3,345 110mH - 16.34 - 695 DT - 127-6 - 641 PV - 12-1.5 - 535 JT - 123-7 - 409 1500m - 4:48.02 - 631 8th - Nolan Churchman&nbsp;- 6,097 100m - 11.13 - 832 LJ - 22-5.25 - 776 SP - 33-5.25 - 497 HJ - 6-0.75 - 670 400m - 50.07 - 811 Day 1 total - 3,586 110mH - 17.02 - 622 DT - 90-5 - 417 PV - 11-9.75 - 509 JT - 101-11 - 314 1500m - 4:45.04 - 649 Bold indicates NCAA DII provisional mark ! indicates school record&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617548293887.jpeg" alt="Courtesy FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>BOLIVAR, Mo. - The Fort Hays State track and field teams saw both the women's heptathlon and men's decathlon records go down this weekend at the SBU Bearcat Invitational. Three of the five Tigers that competed cleared the NCAA Division II provisional threshold in the multi-events. Mattie Rossi surpassed a 10-year-old school record in the heptathlon by 314 points with her NCAA provisional total of 4,984. The sophomore placed third in the event after posting PRs in six of the seven disciplines. She capped off day two with her best event of the day, totaling 785 points with a time of 2:22.85 in the 800m run. Taylor Savolt also cleared the provisional mark with a score of 4,585 in her first collegiate heptathlon. The freshman was fifth overall and placed in the top five in six of the seven disciplines. Her top mark on day two also came in the 800m run when she tallied 711 points with a time of 2:28.54. Senior Matthew Pieper&nbsp;broke the school record in the decathlon with a provisional total of 6,738 points. He eclipsed the old record, set four years ago, by 96 points. Pieper's top event day two event came in the 110mH when he earned 812 points thanks to a time of 15.31. The Colby, Kan. native placed fourth overall at the meet. Jack Pakkebier was just behind Pieper in fifth with a two-day total of 6,256 points in his first-ever collegiate decathlon, less than 70 points shy of the provisional threshold. The sophomore had the best toss in the field in the discus, totaling 641 points with a toss of 127-6. Pakkebier's top event on day two was also the 110m hurdles, where he crossed the line in 16.34 to total 695 points. Nolan Churchman placed eighth overall with a score of 6,097. Also competing in his first decathlon, the freshman led the field in the final event of the day, posting a time of 4:45.04 in the 1,500m run to rack up a day-two high of 649 points. Pieper (4:46.33, 641) and Pakkebier (4:48.02, 631) finished just behind Churchman in the final race of the meet, helping the Tigers go 1-2-3 in the race. Rossi and Pieper broke the school indoor pentathlon and heptathlon records, respectively, during the 2021 indoor season. The Tigers are scheduled to return to competition next weekend when they travel to Wichita, Kan. for the K.T. Woodman Classic, hosted by Wichita State University. Full FHSU Results Women's Heptathlon 3rd - Mattie Rossi&nbsp;- 4,984 ! 100mH - 14.32 - 934 HJ - 5-5.0 - 795 SP - 32-5.75 - 523 200m - 25.20 - 869 Day 1 total - 3,121 LJ - 18-0.5 - 700 JT - 81-3 - 378 800m - 2:22.85 - 785 5th - Taylor Savolt&nbsp;- 4,585 100mH - 15.34 - 797 HJ - 4-6.25 - 491 SP - 33-3.75 - 539 200m - 25.50 - 841 Day 1 total - 2,668 LJ - 17-7.5 - 663 JT - 109-10 - 543 800m - 2:28.54 - 711 Men's Decathlon 4th - Matthew Pieper&nbsp;- 6,738 ! 100m - 11.13 - 832 LJ - 23-2.75 - 833 SP - 38-9.0 - 595 HJ - 5-11.5 - 644 400m - 50.10 - 810 Day 1 total - 3,714 110mH - 15.31 - 812 DT - 107-7 - 520 PV - 11-9.75 - 509 JT - 153-7 - 542 1500m - 4:46.33 - 641 5th - Jack Pakkebier&nbsp;- 6,256 100m - 11.34 - 786 LJ - 20-10.75 - 668 SP - 37-9.25 - 577 HJ - 5-5.75 - 520 400m - 50.46 - 794 Day 1 total - 3,345 110mH - 16.34 - 695 DT - 127-6 - 641 PV - 12-1.5 - 535 JT - 123-7 - 409 1500m - 4:48.02 - 631 8th - Nolan Churchman&nbsp;- 6,097 100m - 11.13 - 832 LJ - 22-5.25 - 776 SP - 33-5.25 - 497 HJ - 6-0.75 - 670 400m - 50.07 - 811 Day 1 total - 3,586 110mH - 17.02 - 622 DT - 90-5 - 417 PV - 11-9.75 - 509 JT - 101-11 - 314 1500m - 4:45.04 - 649 Bold indicates NCAA DII provisional mark ! indicates school record&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

🏃‍♂️ FHSU Heptathlon, Decathlon records go down in Bolivar

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State split a pair of low-scoring conference games with Missouri Southern on Saturday at Tiger Stadium. The winning team scored just two runs in each contest as FHSU won game one 2-1 before falling in game two 2-0. The Tigers are now 13-13 overall and 7-3 in the MIAA where they sit alone in fourth place. The Lions moved to 15-11 overall and 6-4 in the MIAA. Game 1: Fort Hays State 2, Missouri Southern 1 Fort Hays State struck first in the second inning when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5955">Sarah Tiffany</a>&nbsp;drove home&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5957">Jessica Espinoza</a>&nbsp;from first base with a double to the right center gap. Missouri Southern tied the game in the fourth benefitting from a leadoff double by Josie Topfi. Leighton Withers followed with an RBI single through the right side of the infield. The Tigers took the lead back in the fifth as&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5957">Jessica Espinoza</a>&nbsp;led off the inning with a single and moved up to second on a sacrifice bunt by Tiffany.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5882">Katie Adler</a>&nbsp;then came through with a clutch two-out RBI single up the middle to score Espinoza from second base. That was enough offense for&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5893">Michaelanne Nelson</a>, who put together another strong effort in the pitching circle for the Tigers. She scattered six hits and walked two, while striking out five to move to 7-7 on the season. Abby Atkin took the loss for the Lions, allowing just one earned run on five hits and a walk, while striking out two. Game 2: Missouri Southern 2, Fort Hays State 0 Fort Hays State had opportunities to score runs three times, but could never get it done against Bailey Lacy, who threw a complete-game shutout for the Lions. Lacy allowed five hits and walked two, while striking out three Tigers. She moved to 4-1 on the season. The Tigers had runners at second and third with one out in the first an a pair of pop ups ended their first threat. They had a runner at second with two outs in the second and came up empty. Finally in the fifth, they had runners in scoring position again at second and third with two outs, but a ground out ended another chance to score. The Tigers produced singles in the sixth and seventh inning, but never advanced the runner into scoring position.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5894">Grace Philop</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers with two hits in the game. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5887">Hailey Chapman</a>&nbsp;was perfect in the pitching circle for the first 11 outs of the game until Josie Topfi changed that with a solo home run to left field in the fourth. Topfi continued to be a thorn in the side of the Tigers in the sixth when she plated another run with a double. Chapman threw a complete game, allowing six hits, but took the tough-luck loss. She struck out six and moved to 6-5 on the season. The Tigers head out to Denver, Colorado on Tuesday (Apr. 6) for a non-conference doubleheader at MSU Denver before returning home for another MIAA doubleheader. The Tigers will host Nebraska-Kearney next weekend at Tiger Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617492567423.jpeg" alt="Jessica Espinoza scores a run in the first game vs. Missouri Southern State Saturday. (Courtesy FHSU Athletics)" />
 <figcaption>Jessica Espinoza scores a run in the first game vs. Missouri Southern State Saturday. (Courtesy FHSU Athletics)</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State split a pair of low-scoring conference games with Missouri Southern on Saturday at Tiger Stadium. The winning team scored just two runs in each contest as FHSU won game one 2-1 before falling in game two 2-0. The Tigers are now 13-13 overall and 7-3 in the MIAA where they sit alone in fourth place. The Lions moved to 15-11 overall and 6-4 in the MIAA. Game 1: Fort Hays State 2, Missouri Southern 1 Fort Hays State struck first in the second inning when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5955">Sarah Tiffany</a>&nbsp;drove home&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5957">Jessica Espinoza</a>&nbsp;from first base with a double to the right center gap. Missouri Southern tied the game in the fourth benefitting from a leadoff double by Josie Topfi. Leighton Withers followed with an RBI single through the right side of the infield. The Tigers took the lead back in the fifth as&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5957">Jessica Espinoza</a>&nbsp;led off the inning with a single and moved up to second on a sacrifice bunt by Tiffany.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5882">Katie Adler</a>&nbsp;then came through with a clutch two-out RBI single up the middle to score Espinoza from second base. That was enough offense for&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5893">Michaelanne Nelson</a>, who put together another strong effort in the pitching circle for the Tigers. She scattered six hits and walked two, while striking out five to move to 7-7 on the season. Abby Atkin took the loss for the Lions, allowing just one earned run on five hits and a walk, while striking out two. Game 2: Missouri Southern 2, Fort Hays State 0 Fort Hays State had opportunities to score runs three times, but could never get it done against Bailey Lacy, who threw a complete-game shutout for the Lions. Lacy allowed five hits and walked two, while striking out three Tigers. She moved to 4-1 on the season. The Tigers had runners at second and third with one out in the first an a pair of pop ups ended their first threat. They had a runner at second with two outs in the second and came up empty. Finally in the fifth, they had runners in scoring position again at second and third with two outs, but a ground out ended another chance to score. The Tigers produced singles in the sixth and seventh inning, but never advanced the runner into scoring position.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5894">Grace Philop</a>&nbsp;led the Tigers with two hits in the game. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5887">Hailey Chapman</a>&nbsp;was perfect in the pitching circle for the first 11 outs of the game until Josie Topfi changed that with a solo home run to left field in the fourth. Topfi continued to be a thorn in the side of the Tigers in the sixth when she plated another run with a double. Chapman threw a complete game, allowing six hits, but took the tough-luck loss. She struck out six and moved to 6-5 on the season. The Tigers head out to Denver, Colorado on Tuesday (Apr. 6) for a non-conference doubleheader at MSU Denver before returning home for another MIAA doubleheader. The Tigers will host Nebraska-Kearney next weekend at Tiger Stadium.FHSU Athletics

🥎 Tigers split with MSSU

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael A. Taylor homered and drove in three runs for the second straight game, leading the Kansas City Royals over the Texas Rangers 11-4 Saturday.

Released by Washington after hitting .196 last season, Taylor is off to a sensational start for Kansas City. After getting three hits and throwing out two runners at the plate from center field in a 14-10 win on opening day, Taylor came back with a home run and double as the Royals improved to 2-0.

Whit Merrifield also homered for the second game in a row.

Once again, the Royals spotted the Rangers a big early lead before rallying. Kansas City allowed five runs in the top of the first inning in the opener, and this time trailed 4-0 before scoring three runs in the fifth and seven more in the sixth.

Mike Minor (1-0) allowed four runs on four hits in six innings. He pitched for the Rangers over the past three seasons.

Texas reliever Josh Sborz (0-1) gave up three runs without retiring a batter.

Rangers starter Kohei Arihara allowed three runs and six hits in five innings in his major league debut after six seasons in Japan.

Joey Gallo’s mammoth 450-foot homer to center put the Rangers on the board in the first. After David Dahl doubled, Gallo hit a 1-2 pitch into the batter’s eye.

Minor ran into trouble in the third, much of it his own doing. After retiring the first two hitters, he gave up an infield single before a four-pitch walk and a hit batter. Nate Lowe then looped a two-run single.

The Royals finally got to Arihara in the fifth when Taylor hit a 458-foot home run to straightaway center. Kyle Isbel then tripled when center fielder Leody Taveras lost his flyball in the sun. Hanser Alberto doubled and when Nicky Lopez bunted for a single, the Royals had a cycle in the first four batters of the inning. Merrifield drove in Alberto with a fielder’s choice.

Taylor’s two-run double in the sixth to give Kansas City the lead. Isbel followed with an RBI single, Merrifield drove in two with a single and Carlos Santana had a two-run double,

Royals 3B Hunter Dozier was out of the lineup with swelling in his right thumb. He left Thursday’s game with a contusion apparently hurt on a swing. Manager Mike Matheny said Dozier is day-to-day.

The Rangers will send RHP Jordan Lyles to the mound Sunday. He finished 2020 1-6 with a 7.02 ERA. He allowed the most runs in MLB in 2020.

Royals RHP Brady Singer will try to build on an impressive debut season. He went 4-5 with a 4.05 ERA in 2020, but he won three of his last four starts, including allowing just one hit over eight innings in a late-season start against Cleveland.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael A. Taylor homered and drove in three runs for the second straight game, leading the Kansas City Royals over the Texas Rangers 11-4 Saturday.Released by Washington after hitting .196 last season, Taylor is off to a sensational start for Kansas City. After getting three hits and throwing out two runners at the plate from center field in a 14-10 win on opening day, Taylor came back with a home run and double as the Royals improved to 2-0.Whit Merrifield also homered for the second game in a row.Once again, the Royals spotted the Rangers a big early lead before rallying. Kansas City allowed five runs in the top of the first inning in the opener, and this time trailed 4-0 before scoring three runs in the fifth and seven more in the sixth.Mike Minor (1-0) allowed four runs on four hits in six innings. He pitched for the Rangers over the past three seasons.Texas reliever Josh Sborz (0-1) gave up three runs without retiring a batter.Rangers starter Kohei Arihara allowed three runs and six hits in five innings in his major league debut after six seasons in Japan.Joey Gallo’s mammoth 450-foot homer to center put the Rangers on the board in the first. After David Dahl doubled, Gallo hit a 1-2 pitch into the batter’s eye.Minor ran into trouble in the third, much of it his own doing. After retiring the first two hitters, he gave up an infield single before a four-pitch walk and a hit batter. Nate Lowe then looped a two-run single.The Royals finally got to Arihara in the fifth when Taylor hit a 458-foot home run to straightaway center. Kyle Isbel then tripled when center fielder Leody Taveras lost his flyball in the sun. Hanser Alberto doubled and when Nicky Lopez bunted for a single, the Royals had a cycle in the first four batters of the inning. Merrifield drove in Alberto with a fielder’s choice.Taylor’s two-run double in the sixth to give Kansas City the lead. Isbel followed with an RBI single, Merrifield drove in two with a single and Carlos Santana had a two-run double,Merrifield homered in the eighth.TRAINER’S ROOMRoyals 3B Hunter Dozier was out of the lineup with swelling in his right thumb. He left Thursday’s game with a contusion apparently hurt on a swing. Manager Mike Matheny said Dozier is day-to-day.UP NEXTThe Rangers will send RHP Jordan Lyles to the mound Sunday. He finished 2020 1-6 with a 7.02 ERA. He allowed the most runs in MLB in 2020.Royals RHP Brady Singer will try to build on an impressive debut season. He went 4-5 with a 4.05 ERA in 2020, but he won three of his last four starts, including allowing just one hit over eight innings in a late-season start against Cleveland.

⚾ Taylor again stars at plate, Royals beat Rangers

&nbsp; TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - The Fort Hays State baseball team dropped a back-and-forth battle in Saturday's series finale against Northeastern State, 7-6. The Tigers led 3-1 and later 6-4, but the RiverHawks scored the final three runs to steal the victory. The Tigers took the lead just one batter into the game when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6018">Drake Angeron</a>&nbsp;sent a sharp grounder just inside first base and into the right-field corner. The right fielder legged out a triple before coming into score on an errant throw, giving FHSU a quick 1-0 lead.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6022">Jacob Bouzide</a>&nbsp;followed with a single before&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6043">Grant Schmidt</a>&nbsp;worked a walk.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6057">Ed Scott</a>&nbsp;doubled the lead two batters later with a single to right, driving in Schmidt. The RiverHawks got one run back in the bottom of the first before the Tigers stretched their lead to 3-1 in the top of the third when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6051">Kade Wallace</a>&nbsp;sent a two-out home run soaring over the fence in left center, his third long ball of the season. Northeastern State took its first lead at 4-3 after a three-run home run in the bottom of the third, but Fort Hays State responded with three runs of its own in the fourth.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6047">Garrett Stephens</a>&nbsp;led off with a walk before&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6050">Corbin Truslow</a>&nbsp;singled to right.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6054">Traelon Yarbrough</a>&nbsp;followed with a double to center, driving in Stephens and tying the score at four. Angeron drove in the go-ahead run with an infield single up the middle, plating Truslow. Yarbrough came around to score on a fielder's choice from Schmidt, giving the Tigers a 6-4 lead. Northeastern State pulled within one with a single run in the home half of the fourth before the score held steady at 6-5 until the seventh inning, when NSU went back on top with a pair of runs. The Tigers had the tying run on base in both the eighth and ninth innings, but RiverHawk pitcher Dakodah Jones capped off five scoreless innings of relief to secure the win. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6052">Padraic Walsh</a>&nbsp;tossed five innings in his first start of the season, allowing five runs on six hits while striking out five batters.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6028">Jacob Ensz</a>&nbsp;(0-3) took the loss after giving up two runs (one earned) over 1.2 innings of work.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6046">Jake Steinbring</a>&nbsp;tossed a hitless final 1.1 innings, surrendering just two walks. Yarbrough finished the day 2-for-3 with a double, one RBI and one run. Angeron also collected two of FHSU's nine base hits. The Tigers will continue their road trip next weekend when they head to St. Joseph, Mo. to take on Missouri Western. The Tigers and Griffons will open the series with a single game on Friday (April 9) at 5 p.m. before wrapping things up with a Saturday doubleheader beginning at 1 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617492193434.jpeg" alt="Kade Wallas (Courtesy FHSU Athletics, Nicole Heitmann)" />
 <figcaption>Kade Wallas (Courtesy FHSU Athletics, Nicole Heitmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - The Fort Hays State baseball team dropped a back-and-forth battle in Saturday's series finale against Northeastern State, 7-6. The Tigers led 3-1 and later 6-4, but the RiverHawks scored the final three runs to steal the victory. The Tigers took the lead just one batter into the game when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6018">Drake Angeron</a>&nbsp;sent a sharp grounder just inside first base and into the right-field corner. The right fielder legged out a triple before coming into score on an errant throw, giving FHSU a quick 1-0 lead.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6022">Jacob Bouzide</a>&nbsp;followed with a single before&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6043">Grant Schmidt</a>&nbsp;worked a walk.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6057">Ed Scott</a>&nbsp;doubled the lead two batters later with a single to right, driving in Schmidt. The RiverHawks got one run back in the bottom of the first before the Tigers stretched their lead to 3-1 in the top of the third when&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6051">Kade Wallace</a>&nbsp;sent a two-out home run soaring over the fence in left center, his third long ball of the season. Northeastern State took its first lead at 4-3 after a three-run home run in the bottom of the third, but Fort Hays State responded with three runs of its own in the fourth.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6047">Garrett Stephens</a>&nbsp;led off with a walk before&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6050">Corbin Truslow</a>&nbsp;singled to right.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6054">Traelon Yarbrough</a>&nbsp;followed with a double to center, driving in Stephens and tying the score at four. Angeron drove in the go-ahead run with an infield single up the middle, plating Truslow. Yarbrough came around to score on a fielder's choice from Schmidt, giving the Tigers a 6-4 lead. Northeastern State pulled within one with a single run in the home half of the fourth before the score held steady at 6-5 until the seventh inning, when NSU went back on top with a pair of runs. The Tigers had the tying run on base in both the eighth and ninth innings, but RiverHawk pitcher Dakodah Jones capped off five scoreless innings of relief to secure the win. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6052">Padraic Walsh</a>&nbsp;tossed five innings in his first start of the season, allowing five runs on six hits while striking out five batters.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6028">Jacob Ensz</a>&nbsp;(0-3) took the loss after giving up two runs (one earned) over 1.2 innings of work.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6046">Jake Steinbring</a>&nbsp;tossed a hitless final 1.1 innings, surrendering just two walks. Yarbrough finished the day 2-for-3 with a double, one RBI and one run. Angeron also collected two of FHSU's nine base hits. The Tigers will continue their road trip next weekend when they head to St. Joseph, Mo. to take on Missouri Western. The Tigers and Griffons will open the series with a single game on Friday (April 9) at 5 p.m. before wrapping things up with a Saturday doubleheader beginning at 1 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

⚾ Tigers come up short in series finale with RiverHawks

HAYS, Kan. – It was the latest start for a home opener in program history but it was well worth the wait for the Fort Hays State softball team who swept Pittsburg State Friday at Tiger Stadium. The Tigers held the Gorillas to one run in each contest, winning 7-1 and 5-1. The Tigers even their record at 12-12 and improve to 6-2 in the MIAA. The Gorillas fell to 10-18 overall and have lost six straight conference games after a 4-0 start.

Game 1: Fort Hays State 7, Pittsburg State 1 Michaelanne Nelson did not allow an earned run in her third straight confernce start. Nelson scattered six hits and walked just one with 10 strikeouts to move to 6-7 on the season.

&nbsp;Nelson never allowed any Gorilla baserunners past second base prior to the fifth inning. She stranded runners at second and third in the fifth. Pitt State's only run came in the sixth on a pickoff attempt at third by catcher Elise Capra.&nbsp;

Fort Hays State took advantage of a first inning error to load the bases in the first. Grace Philop drew a bases loaded walk to bring in the firwst run. Jessic Espinza added an RBI single.

Sara Breckbill and Philop&nbsp;started a rally for the Tigers in the third. Breckbill singled and then came all the way around to score on a double by Philop that sliced into the left field corner. After Espinoza singled and stole second, Lily Sale&nbsp;drove in two runs with a single to center field. The Tigers capped their scoring in the fifth, triggered by a Sale double. A dropped fly ball off the bat of Sarah Tiffany&nbsp;put runners at second and third with just one out. Katie Adler singled to bring home Sale and Lren Beggs knocked in Tiffany with a sacrifice fly. Game 2: Fort Hays State 5, Pittsburg State 1 Fort Hays State did all of their scoring in the second inning. Kristen Reed and Jessica Espinoza&nbsp;led off the inning with walks, then Lily Sale laid down a bunt single to load the bases. Terran Caldwell drove in two runs wtih a single to center field. A walk by Katie Adler loaded the bases for Grace Philp who drove in two more runs with a single. A Sara Breckbill single loaded the bases for a third time in the inning. Loren Beggs drove in the fifth run on a groundout to second base.

Starter Hailey Chapman escaped bases loaded jams in the second and third innings. The Gorillas only run came in the sixth. She scattered eight hits while walking three and striking out four to move to 4-6 on the season.

The Tigers are back at home Saturday for a noon doubleheader with Missouri Southern State. The Lions are 14-10 and 5-3 in the MIAA.

FHSU Athletics contributed to this story

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617417097624.jpeg" alt="Grace Philp had four hits and four RBIs in the Tigers sweep of Pittsburg State Friday at Tiger Stadium. (Courtesy FHSU Athletics, Seth Kincaid)" />
 <figcaption>Grace Philp had four hits and four RBIs in the Tigers sweep of Pittsburg State Friday at Tiger Stadium. (Courtesy FHSU Athletics, Seth Kincaid)</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, Kan. – It was the latest start for a home opener in program history but it was well worth the wait for the Fort Hays State softball team who swept Pittsburg State Friday at Tiger Stadium. The Tigers held the Gorillas to one run in each contest, winning 7-1 and 5-1. The Tigers even their record at 12-12 and improve to 6-2 in the MIAA. The Gorillas fell to 10-18 overall and have lost six straight conference games after a 4-0 start.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1021333351&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/04-02-21-fhsu-sb-vs-psucoach-interview" title="Adrian Pilkington Postgame vs. Pittsburg State 040221" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Adrian Pilkington Postgame vs. Pittsburg State 040221</a></div></div>Game 1: Fort Hays State 7, Pittsburg State 1 Michaelanne Nelson did not allow an earned run in her third straight confernce start. Nelson scattered six hits and walked just one with 10 strikeouts to move to 6-7 on the season.&nbsp;Nelson never allowed any Gorilla baserunners past second base prior to the fifth inning. She stranded runners at second and third in the fifth. Pitt State's only run came in the sixth on a pickoff attempt at third by catcher Elise Capra.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1021333297&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/04-02-21-fhsu-sb-vs-psu-highlights-game-1" title="Fort Hays State SB vs. Pittsburg State Highlights (Game 1) 040221" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State SB vs. Pittsburg State Highlights (Game 1) 040221</a></div></div>Fort Hays State took advantage of a first inning error to load the bases in the first. Grace Philop drew a bases loaded walk to bring in the firwst run. Jessic Espinza added an RBI single.Sara Breckbill and Philop&nbsp;started a rally for the Tigers in the third. Breckbill singled and then came all the way around to score on a double by Philop that sliced into the left field corner. After Espinoza singled and stole second, Lily Sale&nbsp;drove in two runs with a single to center field. The Tigers capped their scoring in the fifth, triggered by a Sale double. A dropped fly ball off the bat of Sarah Tiffany&nbsp;put runners at second and third with just one out. Katie Adler singled to bring home Sale and Lren Beggs knocked in Tiffany with a sacrifice fly. Game 2: Fort Hays State 5, Pittsburg State 1 Fort Hays State did all of their scoring in the second inning. Kristen Reed and Jessica Espinoza&nbsp;led off the inning with walks, then Lily Sale laid down a bunt single to load the bases. Terran Caldwell drove in two runs wtih a single to center field. A walk by Katie Adler loaded the bases for Grace Philp who drove in two more runs with a single. A Sara Breckbill single loaded the bases for a third time in the inning. Loren Beggs drove in the fifth run on a groundout to second base.Starter Hailey Chapman escaped bases loaded jams in the second and third innings. The Gorillas only run came in the sixth. She scattered eight hits while walking three and striking out four to move to 4-6 on the season.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1021333324&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/04-02-21-fhsu-sb-vs-psu-highlights-game-2" title="Fort Hays State SB vs. Pittsburg State Highlights (Game 2) 040221" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State SB vs. Pittsburg State Highlights (Game 2) 040221</a></div></div>The Tigers are back at home Saturday for a noon doubleheader with Missouri Southern State. The Lions are 14-10 and 5-3 in the MIAA.FHSU Athletics contributed to this story

🥎 Tigers sweep Gorillas in home opener

BOLIVAR, Mo. - The multi-athletes from the Fort Hays State track and field team opened competition at the SBU Bearcat Invitational Friday (April 2). Two Tigers are on pace to break school records, while a third is on track to clear the provisional mark in the heptathlon. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5975">Mattie Rossi</a>&nbsp;completed day one with 3,121 points in the heptathlon after recording personal bests in all four events. She racked up a high of 934 points in the 100m hurdles with a time of 14.32, 13-hundredths of a second off the provisional pace. She is on pace to break both the school record (4,670 points) and the NCAA DII provisional threshold (4,529). <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5977">Taylor Savolt</a>&nbsp;compiled 2,668 points on day one of her first collegiate heptathlon. She recorded personal-bests in the 100m hurdles (15.34) and the shot put (33-3.75), while her best event came at the end of the day in the 200m dash. The freshman crossed the line in 25.50, compiling 841 points. She is on track to eclipse the provisional mark. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5925">Matthew Pieper</a>&nbsp;leads the Tigers in the decathlon with a day-one total of 3,714 points. He opened the day with his two best events, totaling 833 points after a mark of 23-2.75 in the long jump and compiling 832 points with a time of 11.13 in the 100m dash. He is on track to break both the school record (6,642 points) and surpass the provisional standard (6,325) with five events remaining tomorrow. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5934">Nolan Churchman</a>&nbsp;compiled 3,586 points through the first five events, including a personal-best clearance of 22-5.25 in the long jump. His best event was the 100m dash, where he crossed the line in 11.13 for 832 points. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5923">Jack Pakkebier</a>&nbsp;totaled 3,345 points on day one thanks to PRs in three different disciplines. The freshman posted a personal-best in the long jump with a leap of 20-10.75, in the shot put with a heave of 37-9.25 and in the 400m dash with a time of 50.46. The quintuplet of Tiger multi-athletes will wrap up competition in Bolivar on Saturday with day two of the SBU Bearcat Invitational. The rest of the FHSU track and field teams will be competing in Kearney, Neb. on Saturday at the Central Nebraska Challenge. Full FHSU Results Women's Heptathlon <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5975">Mattie Rossi</a> Day 1 total - 3,121 100mH - 14.32 - 934 HJ - 5-5.0 - 795 SP - 32-5.75 - 523 200m - 25.20 - 869 <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5977">Taylor Savolt</a> Day 1 total - 2,668 100mH - 15.34 - 797 HJ - 4-6.25 - 491 SP - 33-3.75 - 539 200m - 25.50 - 841 Men's Decathlon <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5925">Matthew Pieper</a> Day 1 total - 3,714 100m - 11.13 - 832 LJ - 23-2.75 - 833 SP - 38-9.0 - 595 HJ - 5-11.5 - 644 400m - 50.10 - 810 <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5934">Nolan Churchman</a> Day 1 total - 3,586 100m - 11.13 - 832 LJ - 22-5.25 - 776 SP - 33-5.25 - 497 HJ - 6-0.75 - 670 400m - 50.07 - 811 <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5923">Jack Pakkebier</a> Day 1 total - 3,345 100m - 11.34 - 786 LJ - 20-10.75 - 668 SP - 37-9.25 - 577 HJ - 5-5.75 - 520 400m - 50.46 - 794&nbsp;&nbsp;

BOLIVAR, Mo. - The multi-athletes from the Fort Hays State track and field team opened competition at the SBU Bearcat Invitational Friday (April 2). Two Tigers are on pace to break school records, while a third is on track to clear the provisional mark in the heptathlon. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5975">Mattie Rossi</a>&nbsp;completed day one with 3,121 points in the heptathlon after recording personal bests in all four events. She racked up a high of 934 points in the 100m hurdles with a time of 14.32, 13-hundredths of a second off the provisional pace. She is on pace to break both the school record (4,670 points) and the NCAA DII provisional threshold (4,529). <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5977">Taylor Savolt</a>&nbsp;compiled 2,668 points on day one of her first collegiate heptathlon. She recorded personal-bests in the 100m hurdles (15.34) and the shot put (33-3.75), while her best event came at the end of the day in the 200m dash. The freshman crossed the line in 25.50, compiling 841 points. She is on track to eclipse the provisional mark. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5925">Matthew Pieper</a>&nbsp;leads the Tigers in the decathlon with a day-one total of 3,714 points. He opened the day with his two best events, totaling 833 points after a mark of 23-2.75 in the long jump and compiling 832 points with a time of 11.13 in the 100m dash. He is on track to break both the school record (6,642 points) and surpass the provisional standard (6,325) with five events remaining tomorrow. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5934">Nolan Churchman</a>&nbsp;compiled 3,586 points through the first five events, including a personal-best clearance of 22-5.25 in the long jump. His best event was the 100m dash, where he crossed the line in 11.13 for 832 points. <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5923">Jack Pakkebier</a>&nbsp;totaled 3,345 points on day one thanks to PRs in three different disciplines. The freshman posted a personal-best in the long jump with a leap of 20-10.75, in the shot put with a heave of 37-9.25 and in the 400m dash with a time of 50.46. The quintuplet of Tiger multi-athletes will wrap up competition in Bolivar on Saturday with day two of the SBU Bearcat Invitational. The rest of the FHSU track and field teams will be competing in Kearney, Neb. on Saturday at the Central Nebraska Challenge. Full FHSU Results Women's Heptathlon <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5975">Mattie Rossi</a> Day 1 total - 3,121 100mH - 14.32 - 934 HJ - 5-5.0 - 795 SP - 32-5.75 - 523 200m - 25.20 - 869 <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5977">Taylor Savolt</a> Day 1 total - 2,668 100mH - 15.34 - 797 HJ - 4-6.25 - 491 SP - 33-3.75 - 539 200m - 25.50 - 841 Men's Decathlon <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5925">Matthew Pieper</a> Day 1 total - 3,714 100m - 11.13 - 832 LJ - 23-2.75 - 833 SP - 38-9.0 - 595 HJ - 5-11.5 - 644 400m - 50.10 - 810 <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5934">Nolan Churchman</a> Day 1 total - 3,586 100m - 11.13 - 832 LJ - 22-5.25 - 776 SP - 33-5.25 - 497 HJ - 6-0.75 - 670 400m - 50.07 - 811 <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=5923">Jack Pakkebier</a> Day 1 total - 3,345 100m - 11.34 - 786 LJ - 20-10.75 - 668 SP - 37-9.25 - 577 HJ - 5-5.75 - 520 400m - 50.46 - 794&nbsp;&nbsp;FHSU Athletics

🏃‍♂️ Tiger multis off to good start at SBU Invite

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - The Fort Hays State baseball team dropped both games of a double header to Northeastern State Friday (Apr. 2) on the road. The Tigers collected three runs on eight hits in a 13-3 loss in game one before picking up four runs on four hits in an 8-4 game two defeat. FHSU is scheduled to close out the series against NSU&nbsp;with a single game Saturday afternoon (Apr. 3). Game three is set for 1:00 p.m. tomorrow&nbsp;in Tahlequah.&nbsp; . Game One: Northeastern State 13, Fort Hays State 3 The Tigers started off game one of the series well thanks to the bat of&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6043">Grant Schmidt</a>. Schmidt homered to center field in the top of the first to give Fort Hays the early 1-0 lead. From then on, Northeastern State tacked on five runs to take a 5-1 lead in to the sixth inning. A pair of RBI singles from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6050">Corbin Truslow</a>&nbsp;in the sixth and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6036">Tyler Olson</a>&nbsp;in the seventh kept things interesting as the Tigers found themselves down only two runs entering the bottom of the seventh inning. The RiverHawks exploded for eight runs on five hits in their half of the seventh inning to put the Tigers away for good in game one.&nbsp; <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6026">Jake Campbell</a>&nbsp;(2-3) was unfortunately tabbed with the loss after a solid outing. Campbell allowed just three earned runs in five innings of work while striking out four RiverHawk batters. Schmidt finished game one 2-for-4 at the plate with two runs scored. Game Two: Northeastern State 8, Fort Hays State 4 In the second game of a double header, Northeastern State got on the board first and never looked back. The RiverHawks were able to build a seven run lead before FHSU got on the board in the eighth.&nbsp; The Tigers cut the NSU lead down to three with four runs on four walks and two bean balls in the eighth inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6057">Ed Scott</a>&nbsp;put the first Tiger run on the board with a bases loaded hit-by-pitch that allowed&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6050">Corbin Truslow</a>&nbsp;to advance home.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6047">Garrett Stephens</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6018">Drake Angeron</a>&nbsp;drew back-to-back walks with the bases loaded to score two more runs.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6040">Jason Robertson</a>&nbsp;entered the game as a pinch hitter after Angeron's walk and was able to keep the line moving with an RBI groundout to second base. Though Fort Hays trimmed the deficit down to 7-4, the lead was too much to overcome as the RiverHawks added another run in the bottom of the eighth and taking game two of the day.&nbsp; <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6041">Ryan Ruder</a>&nbsp;(0-4) was credited with the loss after throwing four innings and allowing six runs.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6037">Hunter Parker</a>&nbsp;came on in the fifth&nbsp;and ate up most of the remaining innings with 3.1 innings of relief. Parker allowed just two runs on four hits and sat down three NSU batters via strikeout.

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - The Fort Hays State baseball team dropped both games of a double header to Northeastern State Friday (Apr. 2) on the road. The Tigers collected three runs on eight hits in a 13-3 loss in game one before picking up four runs on four hits in an 8-4 game two defeat. FHSU is scheduled to close out the series against NSU&nbsp;with a single game Saturday afternoon (Apr. 3). Game three is set for 1:00 p.m. tomorrow&nbsp;in Tahlequah.&nbsp; . Game One: Northeastern State 13, Fort Hays State 3 The Tigers started off game one of the series well thanks to the bat of&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6043">Grant Schmidt</a>. Schmidt homered to center field in the top of the first to give Fort Hays the early 1-0 lead. From then on, Northeastern State tacked on five runs to take a 5-1 lead in to the sixth inning. A pair of RBI singles from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6050">Corbin Truslow</a>&nbsp;in the sixth and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6036">Tyler Olson</a>&nbsp;in the seventh kept things interesting as the Tigers found themselves down only two runs entering the bottom of the seventh inning. The RiverHawks exploded for eight runs on five hits in their half of the seventh inning to put the Tigers away for good in game one.&nbsp; <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6026">Jake Campbell</a>&nbsp;(2-3) was unfortunately tabbed with the loss after a solid outing. Campbell allowed just three earned runs in five innings of work while striking out four RiverHawk batters. Schmidt finished game one 2-for-4 at the plate with two runs scored. Game Two: Northeastern State 8, Fort Hays State 4 In the second game of a double header, Northeastern State got on the board first and never looked back. The RiverHawks were able to build a seven run lead before FHSU got on the board in the eighth.&nbsp; The Tigers cut the NSU lead down to three with four runs on four walks and two bean balls in the eighth inning.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6057">Ed Scott</a>&nbsp;put the first Tiger run on the board with a bases loaded hit-by-pitch that allowed&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6050">Corbin Truslow</a>&nbsp;to advance home.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6047">Garrett Stephens</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6018">Drake Angeron</a>&nbsp;drew back-to-back walks with the bases loaded to score two more runs.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6040">Jason Robertson</a>&nbsp;entered the game as a pinch hitter after Angeron's walk and was able to keep the line moving with an RBI groundout to second base. Though Fort Hays trimmed the deficit down to 7-4, the lead was too much to overcome as the RiverHawks added another run in the bottom of the eighth and taking game two of the day.&nbsp; <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6041">Ryan Ruder</a>&nbsp;(0-4) was credited with the loss after throwing four innings and allowing six runs.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6037">Hunter Parker</a>&nbsp;came on in the fifth&nbsp;and ate up most of the remaining innings with 3.1 innings of relief. Parker allowed just two runs on four hits and sat down three NSU batters via strikeout.FHSU Athletics

⚾ Tigers fall twice at Northeastern State

&nbsp; HAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team dropped its final home match of the spring to Washburn on Friday, with the Ichabods winning in three sets. The Tigers are now 3-7 this spring, while Washburn moves to 13-3 in 2021. The Ichabods pulled away early to take the opening set, 25-15. Washburn looked to be running away with the second set before Fort Hays State battled back to tie things up and stay alive. The Ichabods led by six, 13-7, before a 7-1 run helped the Tigers tie the score at 14. The score was tied as late as 17-17 before Washburn took the lead for good. FHSU closed within 20-19, but the Ichabods scored the final five points to take the set,&nbsp;25-19. Washburn finished things off with a 25-18 win in set number three. The Tigers will return to the court one week from today (April 9)&nbsp;when they travel to Maryville, Mo. to take on No. 18 Northwest Missouri State. First serve is slated for 6 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617413880663.jpeg" alt="Jaden Daffer (Courtesy FHSU Athletics, Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Jaden Daffer (Courtesy FHSU Athletics, Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; HAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team dropped its final home match of the spring to Washburn on Friday, with the Ichabods winning in three sets. The Tigers are now 3-7 this spring, while Washburn moves to 13-3 in 2021. The Ichabods pulled away early to take the opening set, 25-15. Washburn looked to be running away with the second set before Fort Hays State battled back to tie things up and stay alive. The Ichabods led by six, 13-7, before a 7-1 run helped the Tigers tie the score at 14. The score was tied as late as 17-17 before Washburn took the lead for good. FHSU closed within 20-19, but the Ichabods scored the final five points to take the set,&nbsp;25-19. Washburn finished things off with a 25-18 win in set number three. The Tigers will return to the court one week from today (April 9)&nbsp;when they travel to Maryville, Mo. to take on No. 18 Northwest Missouri State. First serve is slated for 6 p.m.FHSU Athletics

🏐 Tigers fall to Washburn

LAWRENCE, Kan (AP) - Kansas basketball coach Bill Self has agreed to a new contract that will keep him with the Jayhawks until he retires, even as the school awaits a decision from an independent panel investigating five Level I infractions charges alleged by the NCAA.

The school announced Friday that Self agreed to a five-year contract that adds one additional year after the conclusion of each season — in effect, making it a lifetime contract. The deal guarantees him $5.41 million per year with a base salary of $225,000, professional services contract of $2.75 million and an annual $2.435 million retention bonus.

Self was closing in on the end of a 10-year contract signed in September 2012 that guaranteed him $52.2 million along with a $7.2 million retention bonus. That bonus will be paid in $100,000 monthly installments over seven years.

“There is no place I would rather be,” Self said in a statement. “As we continue to work through the challenges facing our program, we look forward to moving ahead and focusing on our bright future.”

Some wondered whether the 58-year-old Self would depart before the Jayhawks are potentially dealt severe sanctions tied to the FBI’s investigation corruption into college basketball. The NCAA announced the five charges along with less serious transgressions involving the football program in September 2019. The school disputed the charges, setting off a back-and-forth chain of events that still have not been resolved.

The case is now in the hands of the NCAA’s new Independent Accountability Resolution Process. The IARP is made up of arbitrators who have broad investigative powers and whose judgement is considered final.

Self’s new contract includes a clause that says the school cannot terminate him for cause “due to any current infractions matter that involves conduct that occurred on or prior to” the signing of the new contract. Instead, he would forfeit half of his base salary and professional services pay while he served any suspension handed down by the Big 12 or NCAA.

It’s unclear when the IARP will announce a decision, though most expect it sometime this fall.

“For almost 20 years, Coach Self has embodied the spirit and tradition of the University of Kansas,” Chancellor Doug Girod said. “We believe in Coach Self and we believe in the future of our program under his leadership, and we are thrilled that he will continue to be a Jayhawk for the rest of his coaching career.”

The timing of Self’s new contract is also unique in that Kansas doesn’t currently have a full-time athletic director. Jeff Long resigned las month amid pressure from fans and donors following his botched hiring of football coach Les Miles, who likewise was forced to resign when allegations of sexual harassment surfaced from his days at LSU.

With the help of an advisory panel and an outside firm, Girod is currently conducting a search for a new AD while the football team begins spring practice under interim coach Emmett Jones. The new AD will lead the search for a new coach.

With so much uncertainty, perhaps it made sense that Kansas wanted to keep Self around for the foreseeable future.

“I have known Bill for many years, but working closely with him over the past few weeks in my current role has shown me even more so on a daily basis how deeply he cares about this program,” said Kurt Watson, a longtime athletic department official and the current interim athletic director.

“We are certainly proud that he began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at KU in 1985,” Watson said, “and that this new contract will ensure he finishes his coaching career here as well.”

Self, who played at Oklahoma State, started as a graduate assistant to Larry Brown with the Jayhawks before returning to his alma mater and working under Leonard Hamilton and Eddie Sutton. Self got his first head job with Oral Roberts, then headed to Tulsa, where two NCAA Tournament trips and an Elite Eight appearance earned him the job at Illinois.

Self also led the Illini to the Elite Eight during three seasons in Champaign before the job opened at Kansas.

Since his arrival in Lawrence, the Jayhawks have won at least 21 games every season — including this past one, which was shortened due to the COVID-19 pandemic and ended with a loss to USC in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

The Jayhawks have won or shared 15 conference titles during his 18 seasons and never failed to make the NCAA tourney when it was played. Eight of those trips made it to the Elite Eight or beyond, including three appearances in the Final Four and two in the national title game. Kansas beat Memphis in overtime to win the 2008 championship.

“Every day I am reminded just how fortunate I am to lead this storied program and there truly is no place else I would rather be,” Self said.

LAWRENCE, Kan (AP) - Kansas basketball coach Bill Self has agreed to a new contract that will keep him with the Jayhawks until he retires, even as the school awaits a decision from an independent panel investigating five Level I infractions charges alleged by the NCAA.The school announced Friday that Self agreed to a five-year contract that adds one additional year after the conclusion of each season — in effect, making it a lifetime contract. The deal guarantees him $5.41 million per year with a base salary of $225,000, professional services contract of $2.75 million and an annual $2.435 million retention bonus.Self was closing in on the end of a 10-year contract signed in September 2012 that guaranteed him $52.2 million along with a $7.2 million retention bonus. That bonus will be paid in $100,000 monthly installments over seven years.“There is no place I would rather be,” Self said in a statement. “As we continue to work through the challenges facing our program, we look forward to moving ahead and focusing on our bright future.”Some wondered whether the 58-year-old Self would depart before the Jayhawks are potentially dealt severe sanctions tied to the FBI’s investigation corruption into college basketball. The NCAA announced the five charges along with less serious transgressions involving the football program in September 2019. The school disputed the charges, setting off a back-and-forth chain of events that still have not been resolved.The case is now in the hands of the NCAA’s new Independent Accountability Resolution Process. The IARP is made up of arbitrators who have broad investigative powers and whose judgement is considered final.Self’s new contract includes a clause that says the school cannot terminate him for cause “due to any current infractions matter that involves conduct that occurred on or prior to” the signing of the new contract. Instead, he would forfeit half of his base salary and professional services pay while he served any suspension handed down by the Big 12 or NCAA.It’s unclear when the IARP will announce a decision, though most expect it sometime this fall.“For almost 20 years, Coach Self has embodied the spirit and tradition of the University of Kansas,” Chancellor Doug Girod said. “We believe in Coach Self and we believe in the future of our program under his leadership, and we are thrilled that he will continue to be a Jayhawk for the rest of his coaching career.”The timing of Self’s new contract is also unique in that Kansas doesn’t currently have a full-time athletic director. Jeff Long resigned las month amid pressure from fans and donors following his botched hiring of football coach Les Miles, who likewise was forced to resign when allegations of sexual harassment surfaced from his days at LSU.With the help of an advisory panel and an outside firm, Girod is currently conducting a search for a new AD while the football team begins spring practice under interim coach Emmett Jones. The new AD will lead the search for a new coach.With so much uncertainty, perhaps it made sense that Kansas wanted to keep Self around for the foreseeable future.“I have known Bill for many years, but working closely with him over the past few weeks in my current role has shown me even more so on a daily basis how deeply he cares about this program,” said Kurt Watson, a longtime athletic department official and the current interim athletic director.“We are certainly proud that he began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at KU in 1985,” Watson said, “and that this new contract will ensure he finishes his coaching career here as well.”Self, who played at Oklahoma State, started as a graduate assistant to Larry Brown with the Jayhawks before returning to his alma mater and working under Leonard Hamilton and Eddie Sutton. Self got his first head job with Oral Roberts, then headed to Tulsa, where two NCAA Tournament trips and an Elite Eight appearance earned him the job at Illinois.Self also led the Illini to the Elite Eight during three seasons in Champaign before the job opened at Kansas.Since his arrival in Lawrence, the Jayhawks have won at least 21 games every season — including this past one, which was shortened due to the COVID-19 pandemic and ended with a loss to USC in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.The Jayhawks have won or shared 15 conference titles during his 18 seasons and never failed to make the NCAA tourney when it was played. Eight of those trips made it to the Elite Eight or beyond, including three appearances in the Final Four and two in the national title game. Kansas beat Memphis in overtime to win the 2008 championship.“Every day I am reminded just how fortunate I am to lead this storied program and there truly is no place else I would rather be,” Self said.