The Mail-Journal, Volume 23, Number 50, Milford, Kosciusko County, 10 December 1986 — Page 8

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THE MAIL-JOURNAL — Wed., December 10,1980

Sports

Warriors defeat Central in 'ugly' game

I By MARK WEINSTEIN Sports Editor SYRACUSE - Wawasee’s girls’ basketball team gave the description ‘winning ugly’ a new meaning Monday evening. The Warriors, committed 26 turnovers and shot 21 percent from the floor in their 44-34 victory over hapless Elkhart Central. With the win, Wawasee ups its season record to 3-2. "It wasn’t pretty, for sure, but

SB? - I T’ If - ■ fl 'M 3 jw ** A f s' F ' ° |jijil 1 """""’ jitfg • - ' -- #**■ I’M OPEN — Wawasee s Amy Conroy, 34, wants Wendy Lung,'2o. to pass her the hall during first half action against Concord. Conroy scored six points, but Concord still defeated the Warriors. 54-33, < Photo by Mark Weinstein >

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we will take it.’’ said Wawasee s mentor. Dale Brannock, who, despite the way Wawasee won the game, still felt good with the triumph. "We did some positive things in the game,” insisted Brannock. “We were able to get to the foul line more often (than in Satur day’s Concord loss) and we rebounded very well. " The Warriors dropped a 54-33 decision to the Minutemen Satur day afternoon.

Senior Kelly Brooks led the Warriors with 17 rebounds, including nine offensive boards. The center also scored 20 points while Ann Vitaniemi rounded out Wawasee s double-digit scorers with 12. However, in the Warriors’ victory over Central, Wawasee nearly gave the game away. After holding a 20-7 lead midway through the second stanza, the Warriors’ offense turned the ball over with regularity. When Wawasee had a chance to score, the offense went ice cold. "I can’t explain what happened there.” said Brannock, referring to 10-0 Central spurt that brought the Blue Blazers within three, 20-17 at the half. "I guess we just did things wrong, and they capatalized on the mistakes. ” During the four minute stretch, the Warriors turned the ball over five consecutive times. Four of the gifts resulted in fielders for the Blue Blazers The second half started the same way it ended — with Elkhart Central scoring. The Blazers, with two quick free throw ' tosses, sliced Wawasee s slim halftime lead to a single point, 20-19. But that is where Wawasee s defense took over. Elkhart Central was unable to score during the next three minutes. Meanwhile, the Warriors scored six straight points to take command of the game.

Warriors off to best start since 1984

SYRACUSE — Wawasee's boys’ basketball team looked a little sluggish in the first half Saturday evening. The Warriors, however, used a strong second half defense, and a solid offensive game by Fred Steffen and Tim Mangas to power Wawasee past Prairie Heights. 65-54. at Wawasee With the win, Wawasee improves its overall record to 4-0, its best start since the 5-0 beginning in 1964. Ironically, Warsaw, the Warriors opponent Friday evening. ended Wawasee's winning streak two years ago. Warsaw, presently, is 3-1. Wawasee, despite the slow start, took control of the basketball game in the third period. During the crucial period, the Warriors’ defense stopped the Panthers offensively. By doing so. Wawasee was able to open up its transition style offense. then run away from the Panthers. Wawasee outscored Prairie Heights 20-9 in the period, forging a 17-point lead entering the final frame “We didn t play very good defense in the first half,’’ insisted Wawasee’s Gary Goshert. "But m the second half, we played better defense, which got our offense moving." Initiating Wawasee's defense was Steffen. The 6-3 center shut down Prairie Height's inside game. then, with his rebounding, started Wawasee's office. Once at the offensive end of the

Wawasee's version of 'Silent Night'. . • home basketball games

What an exciting boys’ basketball team Wawasee has this season. The Warriors, off to a 4-0 start, are the talk of the town — probably everywhere except in Milford, Syracuse, and North Webster. I am amazed at the little support Wawasee’s student body, and elder fans give Gary Goshert’s basketball team. You would think the fans are forced to attend the games because of some crime they’ve committed. Now, don’t get me wrong, I realize there are some fans who support the team, game after game. However, as a whole, Wawasee’s fans have not been overly supportive of this exciting basketball team. Last Saturday’s 65-54 win over Prairie Heights proves my point. Here are the Warriors, without a loss and playing their first home game in two weeks, and the fans sit on their, you know what, and watch... silently. What do the fans need to get excited? This situation reminds me of my high school days at Fremont Ross (Fremont, Ohio). Now, we were known as a football giant and a basketball midget. If we won 10-12 games a year, that was like winning the state title. Still, we drew enthusiastic fans — something foreign to Wawasee. Let me expound further. During, my junior year when we went 0-18, we still filled the gymnasium with fans who would cheer for us. At times, the gym

In taking control of the contest, Wawasee benefited from its rebounding strength. Four of the six points came off offensive rebounds, the latter, a nifty lay-in by Brooks. After Central broke through and scored, the Warriors went on another six-point scoring binge. This time, it was Vitaniemi leading the attack. The senior forward scored an uncontested lay-in, then, after a steal at midcourt. Vitaniemi canned a 12-foot baseline jumper. From that point, the Warriors were never seriously challenged. Wawasee held a comfortable 32-25 lead after three periods, then controlled the tempo to capture the win. "I think our press bothered them,” insisted Brannock. "We forced them into a lot of turnovers (42) and they never were able to get into their offense. ” Although it took Wawasee three quarters to put the game away, it looked at the outset that the Warriors were going to blow the Blazers right out of the gym. The Warriors forced the visitors into 15 first quarter turnovers, while grabbing a 12-5 advantage. The score could of been worse, but poor field goal shooting by the Warriors hindered their offensive attack. The Warriors return to the hardwood Thursday, when they travel to Manchester for a 6:30 contest with the Squires.

court. Mangas dominated. The senior sharpshooter, averaging 30 points coming into the contest, scored nine of his game-high 26 points in the period. Steffen added four points and four rebounds to the cause. “I thought Steffen’s play was the key. especially in the third period." added Goshert. "He did a good job with his inside defense." However, just like Wawasee in the third quarter. Prairie Heights had control of the fourth period, mainly the final four minutes. During the waning moments, the Panthers used their full court press, and timely shooting to make the score more respectable Dan Flaharty. the Panthers' leading scorer, netted nine of his team-high 19 points in the closing minutes. However, the Panthers comeback bid started too late. "I was a little disappointed in some of our play coming down the last four minutes," said Goshert. "But I was also pleased with the way Brian Rensberger rebounded and took care of the basketball during the last four minutes." Statistically, the Warriors struggled through their poorest shooting of the season. Wawasee canned 25 of 60 fielders for 42 percent The statistic did hinder the Warriors as Prairie Heights managed just 21 of 53 attempts, for 39 percent.

On The Mark MARK MMh WEINSTEIN I would rock with excitement, something truly remarkable, especially since we lost every game. I even remember the game with Sandusky, at the time, leading the conference. They were beating us by 15 at half, but we came back — and even took a lead entering the final quarter. You should of heard the gym rock with enthusiasm. People were standing, cheering, exhorting the Little Giants to victory. It never happened. Sandusky camfe-from-behind to win, 73-71. Wawasee’s gym should resemble Fremont’s on that particular evening — exciting and rocking with enthusiasm. Without a doubt, Wawasee’s basketball team is exciting to watch. They score a lot of points, play an aggressive style of defense, and win. They deserve your support. If you can’t get excited about this style of basketball, maybe

Wawasee's next home game is Saturday, Dec. 20, with Northridge. Ironically, the Warriors’ only losses this season have been at Saturday afternoon games. “Those Saturday afternoon games have created a lot of problems for us,” stated Brannock. “The players’ routine is different, which causes us problems.” GAME SUMMARY WAWASEE (33) FG FT PF TP Ann Vitaniemil-5 0-0 4 2 Kelly Brooks 3-5 0-0 2 4 Wendy Lungo-0 0-0 1 0 Lai Reedl-5 0-0 4 2 Amy Conroy 3-4 0-0 2 6 Heidi Brower.l-3 0-0 0 4 Amy Barton O-4 5-10 2 5 Kristi Parsonso-0 0-0 0 0 Michelle White 2-4 0-0 5 4 Julie Richcreeko-0 0-0 00 Totals 14-47 5-10 17 33 Team fouls: 17 Team rebounds: 22 (Brooks 9) CONCORD (54) FG FT PF TP Tami Miller 3-9 6-9 1 12 Heidi Copsey9-10 2-2 4 20 Denise Deter 2-4 1-2 2 5 Betty McLarney4-8 3-4 2 10 Jackie Conley 2-0 0-2 1 4 Barb Burdenl-1 0-0 0 2 Jenni Horokyo-0 0-0 1 0 Audra Smitho-0 0-0 1 0 Jodi GaH 0-0 0-0 10 Totals 21-48 12-20 13 54 Team fouls: 13 Team rebounds: 37 (Copsey 13) Quarter Scoring Wawaseeß4 11 10 -33 Concord...B2o 11 15 -54 Officials: John Lozier and Scott Mason, both of Logansport. Preliminary Score: Wawasee43-34.

Both teams where whistled for 21 fouls, although the Warriors capatalized greater than tne Panthers. Wawasee connected on 15 of 23 charity tosses for 65 percent, while the Panthers converted 12 of 25. for 48 percent. GAME SUMMARY WAWASEE (65)- FG FT TP Mike Eastmano-1 2-2 2 Fred Stettens-12 2-3 12 Nathan Rhoades2-4 1-1 5 Tim Mangas 10-21 6-7 26 Darin Atwood ..:...3-6 1-2 7 John Frasure3-5 0-1 6 Brett Harterl-3 . 0-2 2 Matt Dickl-4 0-0 2 James Braggs.o-1 3-4 3 Brian Rensbergero-1 0-1 0 Totals • 25 5815-23 65 Team Fouls: 21 Team rebounds: 41 PRAIRIE HEIGHTS (54) FG FT TP Don Flahartyo-17 1-6 10 Randy Rathburnl-4 1-4 3 Neal Rumsey6-10 5-8 17 Tim Troppo-6 3-5 3 Scott HoskinsZ-0 0-0 4 Alan Youngo-0 0-0 0 Jett Griderl-4 0-0 2 8. Allshousel-2 0-0 2 Lance Datfronl-1 2-2 4 Totals 21-53 12-25 54 Team Fouls: 21 Quarter Scoring Wawaseel3lß 20 14 65 Prairie Heightsl3l2 » 20 54 Officials: Tim Smith and Jim Springer. Preliminary Score: Prairie Heights 45-37.

you should stay home. Sorry Trav (Wawasee Athletic Director, Hal Traviolia), but maybe it would be more beneficial to pre-record some enthusiastic crowd noise, and see what happens. All week long, Goshert and his players work extremely hard to get ready for their opponent. So far, that hard work has paid dividends. I know if I was one of the coaches, or players, I would be disappointed in the fans. Maybe it will change this week when the Warriors battle Warsaw. Friday night’s game with Warsaw should be an interesting one, in terms of fan support. On the court, both teams are evenly matched. But in the stands, I’m not as confident. Unless I am in right field, I would guess that Warsaw will bring more fans, and make more noise than Wawasee’s faithful. If that happens, what’s the use in playing at Wawasee? Former Warsaw football star, Chad Hopkins, was recently honored by the Mid American Conference as a first team AllAcademic running back. The announcement was made from the MAC’S headquarters in Toledo, Ohio. Hopkins, a sophomore (freshman eligibility) at Western Michigan University, had a 3.32 grade point average, on a 4.0 scale. Hopkins is majoring in Business. For the season, Hopkins averaged A3 yards rushing per

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WAWASEE BREAK — Tim Mangas, left, leads Wawasee's fast break during the Warrters’ 65-54 victory over Prairie Heights. Joining Mangas on the break are Matt Dick, 12, and Darin Atwood. 24. .Managas scored 26 in Wawasee's fourth-straight win. (Photo by Mark Weinstein).

Talented Tigers invade Wawasee Friday

Some things never change. The Warsaw Tigers, regardless of talent, always seems to come up with a winning basketball team. Oh. the faces change, but Warsaw’s winning tradition continues. In 1984, the Tigers won the state title. One year later, with Marty Lehmann and Rob Randels gone, Warsaw advanced to the semi state round before losing. This season should be no different. even with the absence of North Carolina-bound Rick Fox. Fox was declared ineligible by the Indiana High School Athletic Association.. Don’t be out-foxed’ by Warsaw’s Al Rhodes — the Tigers are talented. Even without the allstater. The Tigers, entering the clash with Wawasee with a 3-1 record, should give Gary Goshert's upstart Wawasee Warriors its toughest competition this year, Wawasee enters the contest with arch-rival Warsaw with a perfect 4-0 mark.

carry. He recorded the longest run from scrimmage for the Broncos with his 46-yarder against Ohio University. In WMU’s game with Ohio. Hopkins rushed for 191 yards, which earned the powerful runner “Player of the Week’’ honors at Western Michigan. Dee Stump, and Grace College received a bad break last weekend when Stump, a junior, injured her knee during last Friday’s practice. Stump, according to an official report from the Grace athletic department, had major reconstructive surgery Monday, Dec. 8. O Tickets for this weekend s Warsaw-Wawasee basketball game will go on sale Thursday and Friday, Dec. 8 and 9, beginning at 8 a.m. and lasting until 3 p.m. at Wawasee’s athletic office. The adult tickets are $2.50. O Warsaw’s Denny Hepler shot a six-round total of 432 in the Professional Golfers’ Association Qualifying Tournament in La Quinta. Calif., to earn tour privileges for next year. Wawasee’s winter sports teams are off to an excellent start, led by the 4-0 boys’ basketball team. However, Tim Caldwell’s swim squad is ranked fourth in the state by the Dual Meet Power Ratings. Top performers for Wawasee, so far, are David Keener, second in diving, Brad Smith, fourth in the 100 butterfly, and the 400

"I expect Warsaw to provide our toughest competition so far this season." admitted Goshert, following his teams victory over Prairie Heights. "They have nice talent, and are well coached." Warsaw, with seven returning lettermen from last season s 21-4 team, are coming off a doubleweekend set of victories. The Tigers routed Huntington North. 68-48. then stumbled past Goshen 54-48, in the land of Goshen. "Right now we are just trying to survive." said Warsaw's Al Rhodes, entering the contest with Wawasee. "We are a long ways away from being a good basketball team. We re just trying to do what we have to now." The Tigers' strength, according to Rhodes, is the teams depth and defensive play. Warsaw is able to play seven-to-eight players, without losing much ability. Still, the key to this contest is rebounding.

freestyle relay team, which is fourth. Meanwhile, Wawasee’s wrestling team is 8-1 after the Warriors’ victory over Goshen, and the girls’ basketball team is 3-2 on the campaign. It seems that not only was a Warsaw High School athlete in the movie “Hoosiers”, but so was a Wawasee student. Jeff Schmahl, portrayed a basketball player (warming up before a game, and also. Sitting on the bench). Schmahl did not get into the game, however. . Homer Miller was a little redfaced this week when he learned he won this week’s Male-Urinal award. In gaining the award. Miller breaks Rich Rhodes’ twoweek reign of the coveted trophy. However, Miller, a pressroom technician at The Mail-Journal, cited his redness as a result from his weekend trip to Florida. Although it rained the entire weekend. Miller was able to get sunburned. Miller, after one week of boasting (he was tied for second with two others) came back to earth with his lousy selections. Miller went against Concord, Mishawaka, and Notre Dame. Serving this week as the guest panelist is Robin Hartman, the pen of Warsaw Tiger basketball. Hartman, a native Ohioan, graduated from St. Joseph College. Rensselaer, then started his sports journalism career with

For the season, the Tigers have outrebounded their opponents, except for Concord. The Warriors, meanwhile, didn’t rebounded well in its first game, but since then, have improved the art. » Wk r w jV fV KT* WF j IM SEAN O’CONNOR Wawasee needs to rebound well in order to get its transition style offense in gear Meanwhile, the Tigers must take away the easy bucket to stay with the quicker Warriors. (Continued on page 9)

WRSW radio in Warsaw. For the past two years, Hartman has served as sports editor of The Times-Union. This week's games include Warsaw at Wawasee (AND THE SCORE), Goshen at Fairfield, Tippecanoe Valley at North Wood, West Noble at Northridge. Westview at Prairie Heights, Indiana Tech at Goshen College. Eastern Michigan at Notre Dame, and Manchester College at Grade. DERK KUHN (.913) —Warsaw (61-59), Goshen. Tippecanoe Valley, Northridge, Westview. Indiana Tech. Notre Dame. Grace. 0 MARK WEINSTEIN (.913) — Wawasee (68-59), Goshen, Tippecanoe Vctlley, Northridge, Westview, Goshen College, Notre Dame, Grace. * ROBIN HARTMAN (.826) —Warsaw (62-56) Goshen, Tippecanoe Valley. Northridge. Westview, Goshen College. Notre Dame, Grace. MARK HUFFMAN (.783) —Warsaw (67-61), Fairfield, Nor thWood, Northridge, Prairie Heights. Goshen. Notre Dame, Manchester. HOMER MILLER (.783) —Warsaw (71-57), Goshen, Tip- ‘ pecanoe Valley, West Noble, Prairie Heights, Indiana Tech. Notre Dame. Grace. RICH RHODES (.609) — Wawasee (80-78),. Goshen, Tippecanoe Valley, Northridge, Prairie Heights, Goshen College, Notre Dame, Grace. ♦Denotes Guest Panelist