Sports
New season, wiser ‘Cats
A season of young starters and growth in 2023 is giving way to age and experience as the Cassville football team opens the season Friday against the team that ended the Wildcats’ last campaign. After two sub-.500 seasons on the heels of a district title and state semifinal run, Cassville climbed back to a positive record last year with a youthful squad Coach Clay Weldy said has only gotten better in a year’s time.
Year in Photos — Cassville baseball
Publisher’s note: Throughout the summer, the Cassville Democrat will feature the best unprinted photos from each team photographed during the 2023-2024 athletics seasons. — KT Cassville’s Masin Bryan slides headfirst into third base during a game against East Newton last season.
Year in Photos — Cassville track
Publisher’s note: Throughout the summer, the Cassville Democrat will feature the best unprinted photos from each team photographed during the 2023-2024 athletics seasons. — KT Cassville’s Ethan Bohmke rounds the track in a relay event at the Cassville Relays last season.
Hunting big plays, sparks on the gridiron
A mix of returners and newcomers will line up at various special teams positions for Cassville this year, including an All-Conference punter and two new soccer players looking to make a mark on the gridiron. Clay Weldy, Cassville football coach, said punting duties will mostly be in the hands of quarterback Bodee Rose, who utilizes a rugby style punting method to maximize offensive possibilities.
Lady Eagles settling into youthful season
The Purdy volleyball team may be the youngest Coach Barry Wheeler has had throughout his 38-year career, and it will rely on four returners among five freshmen to reach its goals this season. Leading the squad this year are three seniors — setter Zoey Webb, middle hitter Gracie Patton and defensive specialist Brooklynn Bunch — as well as a junior, outside hitter Lauren Brooks.
Southwest to host volleyball jamboree Tuesday
Southwest High School will host a volleyball jamboree featuring four area teams on Tuesday in Washburn. Along with Southwest, Hurley, Purdy and Wheaton will be participating.
Year in Photos — Cassville Wrestling
Cassville’s Hailey Roark works her opponent in the Class 1 140-pound quarterfinal match at state last season. Roark took fourth place at the Championships.
Wildcats’ defense mixing it up
Young in most spots last season, the Cassville football team’s defense is coming into its own this year, with a cache of returning starters and multiple positions still up for grabs. Clay Weldy, Wildcats coach, said nine players have been working for playing time at linebacker this summer.
Soccer ‘Cats set lofty goals
A year after one of the best seasons since Cassville boys soccer began, the Wildcats are hungry for more. Jake Forste, Cassville soccer coach entering his eighth season at the helm, said the potential this season is massive.
Year in Photos — Barry County hoops
Exeter’s Jesse Eaton directs the play during a home basketball game last season.
