DECEMBER ISSUE...

The December issue of THE MODERATOR is on newsstands NOW! Don't miss it!

TOP STORIES:
Beacoms earn Family of the Year Honor
Two cast members recieve Irene Ryan Nomination

SPOTLIGHTS:
Faculty Spotlight: Henrickson brings passion to his craft
Student Spotlight: Marquardt Thrives at MMC
Intern Spotlight: 'Doing time' with the Yankton P&D

Also, coverage on campus events, arts & entertainment, sports and so much MORE!!

To subscribe, visit our website.

Chatting with the Coaches: Girls Basketball

MMC Notebook: Lancers Face Challenging Week
The Women’s basketball team (8-2) couldn’t start Great Plains Athletic conference play any tougher.

The Lancers face the top two ranked teams in NAIA Women’s Basketball, starting with #1 ranked Morningside College (11-0) on Wednesday and the #2 ranked Hastings College (8-1) on Saturday.

“The GPAC is extremely tough, add the fact that we open with the #1 ranked team nationally in our division in Morningside and the # 2 ranked team nationally in Hastings and we obviously could not start out any tougher,” Lancer coach Tom Schlimgen said.

Already battling a number of injuries and illnesses, the Lancers are facing their greatest challenges of the young season.

Having already defeated nationally ranked Black Hills State University (Nov. 10, 60-44) at home, the Lancers aren’t in completely unfamiliar waters. However it has not yet been to this degree.

Coach Schlimgen stressed the importance of playing at home and living up to their high expectations.

“We need to take pride in playing at home,” Schlimgen said. “If we want to be a contender in our conference, then we need to play like contenders.”

Against Morningside, the Lancers face a team that thrives on defensive pressure.

“Morningside is a very unique team. They all about zone defense and zone pressure in full court and half court,” Schlimgen said. “They try to create a lot of turnovers and want the game played fast.”

Their offense feeds off of turnovers. Not only are they strong in the post, but they can shoot well and dribble drive if necessary.

Coach Schlimgen said they are a coach’s nightmare.

Vespers: Lessons and Carols

Mount Marty Mixed Chorus and Chamber Choir perform at Vespers. The performance took place in the Bishop Marty Chapel on Sunday November 30.

The choir students line the ailses with candles while everyone sings Silent Night in the candle lit chapel.

Photos by Alicia Pick

Benson’s Transition To Volleyball Paid Off

Coming in as a freshman cross country runner from Hurley, Carly Benson never had any thoughts about playing college volleyball.

“I never had intentions of playing college volleyball,” Benson said. I had considered other sports, but never volleyball.”

That changed at the end of her running season as now senior setter Abby Haiar approached Benson and asked her to talk with Lancer volleyball coach Tracey Grotenhuis.

Benson made the switch in the fall semester of her sophomore year and began playing as the Lancers libero.

Benson entered a young team and helped them to improve throughout her two years on the team.

Benson considered her transition to the volleyball team like joining a new family.

“The girls on and off the court are like family to me and it is awesome to have that kind of support behind you,” Benson said. “I have really enjoyed the team aspect and love the girls I play with.”

Benson had a solid year on the court. She played 128 of 129 games and led the team with 546 digs. She directed the passing to help set up the Lancers offensive attack.

Her performance was good enough to make her an All-GPAC Honerable Mention libero.

Although Benson is only considered a sophomore in volleyball eligibility, she is a junior academically.Next year will be Benson’s last year with the Lancers as she graduates in May 2010.

Matthew Mayer Returns to Mount Marty

Matthew Mayer, solo pianist and songwriter, played again this year at Mount Marty. He performed in Marian Auditorium on November 21.

His fingers seem to fly over the keys!

Photos by Theresa Condon

Pete Good Visits Mount Marty

Singer/songerwriter Pete Good played in the Cyber Cafe on Wednesday, November 19. Here, Pete (left) sings one of his songs while Isaiah James sings and plays backup. Isaiah is from the band Liquid Thin.

Photo by Theresa Condon

Chatting With The Coaches: Men's Basketball

Playing Against Coach Meyer

BY SCOTT MORRISON

The Lancers men’s basketball team will be in the presence of collegiate basketball greatness on Tuesday.

They travel to Aberdeen to play against Northern State University and their legendary coach Don Meyer.

Meyer is currently second on the NCAA Career Men’s College Basketball Wins list, just behind former coach Bob Knight. Meyer entered the season with 889 wins, behind Knight’s 902 wins.

Playing against Meyer and his NSU team could prove to be a valuable experience for the Lancers.

Not only will they play against one of the most successful coaches in college history, they play against a man who is currently battling some major obstacles.

On his way to an annual hunting trip on September 5th, Meyer was in a traumatic car accident in which he was severely injured.

Meyer was hospitalized with fractured ribs and fractured bones in his lower leg. However, that wasn’t the worst. Meyer was diagnosed with cancer.

While performing emergency surgery, doctors found slow growing carcinoid cancer. Meyer is currently rehabilitating his injuries and the cancer.

Lancers of the Month

Men’s Athletes of the Month:
Dave Mueller and Derek Otton

As freshmen, Mueller, a defender, and Otton, a goalkeeper, earned All-Conference Honorable Mention status for the soccer team.

Otten allowed only 31 goals and made 161 saves on the year.

Women’s Athletes of the Month:
April Dolezal and Lauren Donlin

Dolezal and Dolin both earned All-GPAC Honorable Mention for their roles on the women’s soccer team.

Dolezal (So.) was the team captain for the lancers. She switched from defender, to midfielder, to goalie throughout the season.

Donlin (Jr.) was by far the team leader in points with 8 (7 goals, 1 assist). Donlin scored the game-winning goal in the team’s only win.

The Beacoms: Family Of The Year

Growing up as one of 14 siblings, Lindsay Beacom’s father could not afford to go to college. So, he vowed that his children would all have the opportunity that he missed out on.

Now, all five of his children have taken at least some type of college courses. However, Mount Marty College has been the popular choice.

By the time that now freshman Courtney Beacom graduates, the Beacoms will have had a member of the family enrolled at MMC since 2004.

Not only have they been present in the college setting, but they have had their fair share of extra-curricular activities as well.

The Beacoms, from Lyons, Neb., have had three siblings attend the college while playing some type of athletic sport.

Using an academics first mindset, the Beacom siblings have successfully balanced academics and athletics.

This starts with Corey, a 4-year letterman in baseball, who graduated in May 2008 with an Accounting degree.

Corey received NAIA Academic All-American both his junior and senior years.

Lindsay, a volleyball letterman, received the award as a junior and is set to earn the award again. She is expected to graduate in May 2009 with and History and Secondary Education degrees with and a coaching endorsement.

And now, Courtney, a freshman on the Track and Field team, is expected to graduate Spring 2012. She is taking classes on her way to degrees in both Elementary Education and Special Education.

Because of the academic success that both Corey and Lindsay have had, the expectations are high for Courtney. However, this is nothing new for any member of the Beacom family.

“My parents have always made us put academics before sports,” Lindsay said. “All five of us kids played sports year-round. But, grades came first.

Lindsay is the only one of the three who will attend at least one year with both siblings. She said that her experience was made easy by having her brother to help.

“It has been a wonderful experience attending college with my brother and sister,” Lindsay said. “Our family has always been really close, and it was nice to have my big brother here when I started out school.”

Now she hopes that she can help Courtney during her first year.

“I’m trying to make Courtney’s transition a good one now, too,” Lindsay said. “I think people worry that they won’t be able to make a name for themselves at college if they follow their brother or sister, but I have found that is an easy thing to do at Mount Marty.”

Blue and Gold Days

The Lancer basketball programs take on Black Hills opponents for Blue and Gold Days in their home openers this weekend.

This begins on Friday night as the Lancers take on Black Hills State University on Friday night at 6:00 and 8:00 p.m.

This continues against South Dakota School of Mines and Technology at 3:00 and 5:00 p.m. on Saturday afternoon.

On the women’s side, the Lancers face two teams that received NAIA Division II recognition in the preseason polls.

BHSU (2-0) is ranked 18th in the preseason polls and defeated Dordt College (71-57) and Dana College (65-55).

SDSM&T (1-1) received ten votes which would rank the 33rd in the nation. They fell to Dana College (60-54) and defeated Dordt (63-59) last weekend.

Coach Tom Schlimgen says that the most important part of preparing for this weekend’s games is going to be just playing their game.

“We know that we have big challenges this weekend, but right now our biggest concern is us.” Schlimgen said.

After defeating Johnson and Wales University (Colo) 81-34, they started off on the right foot.

However, it is going to take a stronger effort to do well this weekend.

“Offensively, we just need to great better with our execution and our spacing to see improvement,” Schlimgen said.

Schlimgen hopes that his team can keep expanding on the offensive side of the court to help with production.

"Offensively we need to expand on some of the things we do to give us more options,” Schlimgen said.

This weekend could prove to be the first glimpse on what the Lancers need to do to improve.

NOVEMBER ISSUE...

The November issue of THE MODERATOR hits newsstands TODAY! Don't miss it!

TOP STORIES:
Mixed Blood Theatre Presents "Minnescanos" at MMC
Lancers Welcom Experienced Schlimgen

SPOTLIGHTS:
Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Chun Wu: Chemistry, Research Enthusiast
Student Spotlight: Glascodine excels at MMC
Intern Spotlight: Internship leaves a feeling of 'out with the old, in with the new'
Club Spotlight: Gamers unite to 'keep the fight in the game'

Also, coverage on campus events, arts & entertainment, sports and so much MORE!!

To subscribe, visit our website.

Halloween Dance

The Halloween Dance was held in the Bistro on November 1. Here, Ben Puthoff dressed as Julius Caesar.

Catrina Ellis and Paige Linden were ninjas for the dance, complete with swords and knives.

There were many different costumes at the dance. Here, April Dolezal was an old lady, Abby Dickes was a cop, Sara Haase was a cowgirl, and Steph Schultz was a nerd.

Photos by Theresa Condon

Halloween Spirit...MMC Style

Some students really get into the Halloween spirit here at MMC!

How would you rate the Halloween spirit of this 'damsel' in distress? Leave your rating in the comments below!

Lifelight Concert

Lifelight tours held a concert at the Yankton City Hall Gym on October 29. Phil Joel, former bassist and supporting vocalist for Newsboys, is shown here during his performance.

The concert was sponsored by Food for the Hungry, an organization that helps to feed children in poverty-stricken countries. Here, Angel Dean promotes the organization by showing the crowd the child he sponsored.

Angel Dean is shown here during his part of the concert.

Pete Good and his band wowed the crowd during the concert. Pete will be performing at Mount Marty in November.

Photos by Theresa Condon

Bowling

Mount Marty students went bowling at the Yankton Bowl Family Fun Center on October 29. Isaac Beeck and Joey Stahl pose for this picture.

Photo by Theresa Condon

Wendi Fox

Wendi Fox came to Mount Marty on October 29 to speak to students about the dangers of drinking alcohol.

Photo by Theresa Condon

Credit For Helping Others

A incoming freshman at MMC, Abby Haiar was looking forward to a career with the Lancers women’s basketball program. She never had any thoughts about playing volleyball, let alone setting any records.

This all changed after the basketball season as Haiar realized how much she missed the game of volleyball.

She approached Lancer coach Tracey Grotenhuis and by the next fall she claimed a spot as the Lancers starting setter. Her collegiate career took off.

Now just three short seasons later, Haiar claimed the Lancers Career Assists record by breaking Teresa Ellis’s mark that stood at 2,405 set assists. Ellis’s record stood for 16 years before Haiar broke it.

The record came in the fourth game of a Great Plains Athletic Conference match against rival Dakota Wesleyan University on Wednesday, October 22.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment for Abby, one that she has worked very hard for,” Grotenhuis said.

Not only is this an important individual mark that is important for Haiar, it is a record that everyone on the Lancers team can celebrate.

Haiar’s record is evidence for the Lancers improvement throughout the past couple of years.

“Any time you see one of your individual players reach a special milestone in their career, it’s exciting for the entire program,” Grotenhuis said.

Because the record came with five regular season matches left in the season, Haiar has had the opportunity to pad the record.

Currently Haiar has 2,499 assists with three regular season matches and at least one GPAC Tournament game remaining. She could possibly break the 3,000 milestone.

Pumpkin Carving and Shannon Curtis

Shannon Curtis provided the entertainment during the Pumpkin Carving on October 27 in the Cyber Cafe.

Lantz Kulp dug out the seeds before he began carving a basketball into his pumpkin.

Here, Margie Hansen posed with her creation.

Photos by Theresa Condon

Hypnotist Visits Mount Marty

Jareth Kaup, Emily Girard, Ben Cummings, Chili Duran, Jon Faris and Katie Breuer warm up to each other during the hypnotist show on Friday night. They were told that it was freezing out and did anything to stay warm.

Rebecca Jensen was told she couldn't remember the number 7, so when she counted her fingers she came up with 11!

Ben Cummings, Chili Duran, and Jon Faris enjoy an ice cream cone.

Emily Girard, Chili Duran, and Jon Faris compete in a dance-off.

Photos by Theresa Condon

Fall Formal

These Mount Marty students enjoyed themselves at the Fall Formal on October 18.

Emily Rausch and Raelynn Coldwell stopped dancing for a few seconds to pose for this picture.

Photos by Theresa Condon

Chatting with the Coaches: Mens Soccer

BY SCOTT MORRISON

The Lancers mens’ soccer team is on the bubble.

With their 1-1 tie against Dana College on Saturday night, the Lancers have a chance to make the Great Plains Athletic Conference Tournament for the first time in the program’s existence.

With six points, the Lancers (1-5-3) sit in a tenth place tie in GPAC standings with Dordt College (2-6).
The GPAC takes the top eight finishers from the regular season into the tournament.

However because third ranked Nebraska Wesleyan University (6-2, 18 points) is affiliated with NCAA Division III, they do not participate in tournament.

Therefore the top nine teams in the GPAC, excluding NWU, make it to the tournament. This means that the Lancers need only to move up one more place to qualify for the tournament.

Coach Dan Hendricks believes that the magic number to earning a spot is four points.

“I think that if we can get four more points, we will be in a good position to make the tournament.” “We control our own destiny, and there’s no one else that we would rather count on than ourselves.”

Coming up with four points with Briar Cliff (1-7-1), NWU, and Doane (6-3) left on their season schedule, the Lancers can do a combination of things to meet the minimum and get in.

The first scenario, and possibly the most difficult, is wining two games. This would give them their four points and the luxury of having another game which they could move up in the rankings.

The next is one win and two ties. By taking this route, the Lancers would be walking a tight rope and have no room for error.

No matter how you look at it, it’s going to be difficult for the Lancers to get in. It promises to be an interesting hunt.

The Lancers take on GPAC last ranked Briff Cliff in Sioux City on Wednesday.

Lancers of the Month (Sept 15-Oct 15)

Male Athlete
Angel Duran
Mens Soccer
Sr.
South Sioux City, Neb.

Angel had two goals and an assist during this period. He scored the game winning goal in the Lancers lone GPAC win.

Female Athlete
Megan O'Grady
Cross Country
Sr.
Tyndall, SD

Megan is continually improving towards a berth at nationals. She finished 20th at the Briar Cliff University Invitational

Chatting With The Coaches: Cross Country

BY SCOTT MORRISON

Four years ago, when Tyndall native Megan O’Grady began her first practice for the Lancers Cross Country program, participating in an NAIA National meet was one of the last things on her mind.

But now, as the cross country season passes its halfway point, O’Grady is working tirelessly for one last chance to qualify.

Year after year O’Grady, a senior, has improved her times and is getting closer to a 19:00 mark necessary to qualify for the meet.

She finished 20^th at the Briar Cliff University Invitational with a 19:52.18.

It hasn’t been easy as she has battled an ailing foot and rigorous workouts, but an outstanding work ethic has kept her working.

“It’s been difficult for Megan to get where she is today. She is constantly working and training to get better. Results from her hard work is seen through her improvements,” Lancer coach Randy Fisher said.

In a typical week, O’Grady works double time to make sure she is in the best shape.

During a workout O’Grady spends her morning in the pool completing aerobic exercises. In the afternoon, O’Grady does sprint workouts including numerous repeat runs on the track.

“These workouts are focused on helping Megan’s conditioning and getting her ready for nationals,” Fischer said.

O’Grady has four more meets to qualify for the meet. This includes the Hastings Invitational on Saturday

in Hastings, Neb.

OCTOBER ISSUE...

The first issue of THE MODERATOR for the year hits newsstands TODAY! Don't miss it!

TOP STORIES:
Opening Mass Pays Special Tribute
San Diego Experience Leaves Lancers Soaring

SPOTLIGHTS:
Faculty Spotlight: Thurow Joins Religious Studies Department
Program Spotlight: Mount Marty Inscribes New Writing Program
Student Spotlight: Wilcynski Signs On as New RHDA
Intern Spotlight: Hovland Has an Experience of a Lifetime
Coach Spotlight: Grotenhuis: A Genuine Team Player

Also, coverage on campus events, arts & entertainment, sports and so much MORE!!

To subscribe, visit our website.

Chatting With The Coaches: Men's Soccer

Lancers Remain In Hunt for Tourney Bid

After a winless GPAC record in his first year, nobody expected head men’s soccer coach Dan Hendricks and company to make a serious run at a spot in the conference tournament.

Now, with eight teams receiving bids, the Lancers look like they have an opportunity to get in.

The eighth seeded Lancers (1-2-2) can make a run at the tournament if they can continue doing things right.

This starts this afternoon when they take on Morningside College (1-4). This match is a strong opportunity for the Lancers to earn another conference win.

If the Lancers come out on top in this match, it could provide them with some momentum headed into the weekend.

They journey south to Hastings, Neb. where they face Hastings College (4-0 GPAC) who has won four consecutive matches coming into today.

Chatting With the Coaches: Volleyball

BY SCOTT MORRISON

Lancers Face Difficult Weekend

The Lancers volleyball team is in for a big home weekend against some difficult Great Plains Athletic Competition.

This starts Friday, October 3 against Hastings College and on Saturday, October 4 against Concordia University.

The Lancers (9-10, 1-3 GPAC) need to do well if they plan on being competitive for the rest of the GPAC season.

They come into the weekend tenth in the GPAC and are hoping to make their way up the standings to get into contention for a possible opportunity to get into the conference tournament.

However this is not going to be easy as Hastings is the top seeded team in the GPAC with a 4-0 conference record and a 22-3 over record.

Although Concordia (3-13, 0-3 GPAC) is anticipated to be an easier opponent, the Lancers can’t take them for granted. They need at least one match victory over the weekend.

Sophomore McDonald Fights for Time

So far in her career with the Lancers, sophomore setter Kerry McDonald has seen limited action. And this is granted due to the fact the senior setter Abby Haiar was the only returner who received GPAC recognition.

It’s been difficult for coach Tracy Grotenhuis to get McDonald, the Parker native, into games to get experience. But when she has got out on the court, she has done exceptionally well.

McDonald has performed best from the serving line. At one point in the Lancers 3-0 win over York College, McDonald had three ace serves. She also had numerous kills from the floor.

As the season continues, it is clear that McDonald will continue to play a role on the team.

Chatting With The Coaches: Men's Soccer

BY SCOTT MORRISON

The Lancers soccer team has had a solid start to their young season. Despite their youth, they have shown potential in the short time they’ve been together.

With a 2-3, 0-1 GPAC record, there is still hope for the Lancers to be a conference contender. However it’s not going to be easy.

Proof of this came Wednesday, September 17 when the Lancers hosted their conference opener against the University of Sioux Falls in a 4-1 loss.

Through 72 minutes, the Lancers had held the USF lead to just one goal. Coach Dan Hendricks elected to put more pressure on the offensive end in order to get a goal, but USF capitalized with two more goals to make it 3-0.

“We tried to throw some numbers at them to get that goal back, but they scored a couple of quick goals,” Hendricks said.

Both teams exchanged goals near the end to make it 4-1.

On Sunday, September 21 the Lancers had a strong game against non-conference opponent Jamestown College (N.D.).

The Lancers won the match 2-0 thanks to stellar defense and goals from senior Angel Duran and freshman Santos Campos-Gonzales.

Now the Lancers have three games in five days. They face GPAC opponent Dordt on Tuesday, September 23; Buena Vista on Wednesday, September 24; and Midland Lutheran University on Saturday, September 27.

Cartune Xprez

Cartune Xprez performed at Mount Marty on September 12. Their show included animation, fast movement dancing, and playing instruments, such as the keyboard, a recorder, and electric guitar, as shown here.

Photo by Theresa Condon

Fine Arts Picnic

Andy Henrickson, Leonard Risinger, and Nelson Stone watched over the hot dogs and hamburgers at the Fine Arts Picnic.

There were pontoon rides offered throughtout the picnic. Here, Dr. Vogt helps Melissa Cihal onto the pontoon.

The pontoon riders stopped at a small beach and climbed up a cliff for this picture. Melissa Cihal, Gina Emanuel, Steph Schultz, Isaac Beeck, Mitchell Zenk, and Brittany Riles enjoyed the view from up top.

Photos by Theresa Condon

Open Mic Night at Mount Marty

Kalib Heeren, Tyler Vela, Lantz Kulp, Joey Stahl, Isaac Beeck, and Jordan Foos sang "Too Late to Apologize" with Adrian O'Brien accompanying on piano.

Here they are again, with Tyler Vela stepping out for a solo during the performance.

Photos by Theresa Condon

Lancers of the Month: September

Male Athlete of the Month:

Titus Kosgei
Cross Country
Sophomore
Eldoret, Kenya

Kosgei finished fourth in his first ever collegiate cross country race. He finished the Don Baker Invitational with a time of 27:12.41. Kosgei is expected to be a frontrunner for the Lancers all season.

Female Athlete of the Month:

Lauren Donlin
Soccer
Junior
South Auburn, WA

Donlin continues to add to career scoring record with three goals in the Lancers first four games of the season. Donlin is expected to be a leader during conference play.

Students Help Out at Ribfest

A few Mount Marty students from S.W.A.T. volunteered at the RibFest. Here, Jordan Foos supervised the kids entering and exiting the playhouse.

Kalib Heeren also helped out by making sure the kids got down the slide safely.

Photos by Theresa Condon

Cary Judd Visits Mount Marty

Cary Judd performed in the Cyber Cafe on September 8. He sang original songs from his older CD's and also from his newest CD, due to come out in December. To hear his music or for more information, visit his website.

Photos by Theresa Condon

Chatting with the Coaches: Cross Country

Hoping for a solid beginning this year, the Lancers cross country team kicked of their season at the Don Baker Invitational that was put on by the University of South Dakota in Vermillion on Saturday, September 6.

Although the Lancers didn’t finish first on either the men’s or women’s sides, they did have some impressive performances from a number of individuals.

Starting on the men’s side, all five Lancers ran their first ever collegiate races. And the results were encouraging.

Two Lancer runners earned top ten performances. These were sophomore Titus Kosgey and freshman Tyler Smit.

Kosgey finished fourth in the race running a 27:12.41 in his first cross country experience. Smit ran the course in 27:37.54 in his first ever collegiate experience.

“Both Titus and Tyler manned excellent on Saturday. They were our leaders from the start. They were in the thick of things from the start,” Coach Randy Fischer said.

As for the remaining Lancers Brandon Phizacklea, Kalib Heeren, and Lantz Kulp all participated. They earned 33rd, 34th, and 35th place respectively.

“We were very pleased with our performances this weekend. We think that we have a tremendous amount of potential,” Fischer said.

On the women’s side, the Lancers saw the highly anticipated debut of freshman and Yankton native Jade Steinberg.

Steinberg proved to be the Lancers leader by finishing ahead of the rest of the Mount Marty squad. Steinberg finished in 17th place with a 21.28.42 on the course.

“Jade is going to get a lot better as she gets more and more comfortable with running in college. We are excited about what she can do,” Fischer said.

Sophomore Megan O’Grady also had a solid performance. She ran a 21.41.58 which was good enough to get her a 21st place finish.

“Megan came in second for our team. She had a very good race. We hope they she can have another solid year for us,” Fischer said.

Brittany Fischer came in third for the Lancers with a 22:07.35. She finished in 26th place overall.

As a team the Lancers finished in third place just behind Morningside College and the University of South Dakota.

Chatting with the Coaches: Lancer Volleyball

The Lancers volleyball program is already reaping the benefits of experience thus far in the young season. They have displayed improvements from last year throughout their recent success.

Last year it took until September 14 for the Lancers to get their second win, but this year they earned the multiple win mark before the end of August and could very well have three wins by now.

The Lancers (2-5) have been busy in their first couple weeks of action, but think that they have a firm grasp on opportunity going into Great Plains Athletic Conference Play.

It didn’t take long for the Lancers to earn their first match victory. They defeated Dakota State University in the Triangular held at MMC. They beat the Trojans by scoring 21-25, 25-23, 22-25, 25-20, 15-8.

“DSU is an all-around tough team. It was a battle from the start. We were very excited to open the season with a win,” Lancer coach Tracy Grotenhuis said.

The Lancers narrowly missed out on starting 2-0, but lost to Waldorf College 14-25, 20-25, 25-21, 14-25.

“We played inconsistently and made a lot of service errors. It was a winnable match and we were a little disappointed that we couldn’t get a win,” Grotenhuis said.

After the Lancers finished their triangular, they headed to California where they participated in the Seaside Invitational hosted by Point Loma Nazarene University.

At the tournament the Lancers were surprised to find out that three out of their four opponents were ranked in the top ten in NAIA volleyball.

This started with loses to the College of Idaho (16-25, 18-25, 6-25) and to Madonna University (11-25, 17-25, 15-25).

“It was a tough first day in the tournament. We saw the two toughest teams we will face all year in one day. It was definitely a waking experience for some of the girls,” Grotenhuis said.

Day two of the tournament turned out to be a bittersweet day for the Lancers. They split matches with Ashford College and hosting Point Loma Nazarene.

The Lancers defeated Ashford in five games by scoring 25-19, 17-25, 25-18, 12-25, 15-10 in the match.

“We showed a lot of character coming out and beating Ashford. Our girls rebounded well and beat a tough team.

The Lancers ended the tournament on a sour note as they lost to Point Loma Nazarene12-25, 14-25, 17-25.

Now the Lancers are scheduled to participate in the University of Sioux Falls Tournament in Sioux Falls this weekend (September 5-7).

Their first game is a rematch against DSU from the opening game of the season.

Lancers Look For Strong Season

BY SCOTT MORRISON

Despite coming off a difficult season and having only seven returners back this year, the Lancers are optimistic about what could materialize into a strong 2008 season.

There’s no doubt that they are a young team, but with youth the Lancers have the fire to have a successful season.

The Lancers (2-14-1(0-12 GPAC)) have three seniors that plan to lead the Lancers throughout the year.

Of these seniors brothers Angel and Rogelio Duran are the only two have been with the team for their entire four year careers.

Angel Duran is an outside midfielder/defender who has earned team captainship status through his examples.

“Angel is a team captain and a four year starter who knows how to play. We are really looking forward to his experience this year,” Second year coach Dan Hendricks said.

The other Lancer senior is forward Josh Christenson. Christenson, how had never played soccer before last season, hopes to be a big part of the Lancer offense.

Christensen’s work in the off-season has helped to motivate other players for the oncoming season. He hopes it can make a difference on the field.

Redshirt Junior Mario Briseno, who played for the Lancers in both his freshman and sophomore year, is expected to make a solid difference for the Lancers.

“Mario is one of the most experienced and talented players on the team. We hope that he can step up and be a leader for the team,” Hendricks said.

He is joined by redshirt freshman and team captain Dave Mueller. Mueller’s strength comes with his leadership and his defensive play.

“Dave is a positive leader. The fact that he was voted as a team captain without playing a minute on the field says a lot about him. I can’t say enough about Mueller,” Hendricks said.

Junior Moises Vasques and sophomore Chris Sullivan also return.

The Lancers have a host of incoming players including a new goaltender and numerous quality athletes.

Junior College transfer Derek Oten takes over as the team’s goaltender. Coach Hendricks expects him to make a difference in net.

“Derek is an amazing talent who fits the goalie mold. He is confident and demands 100% out of his teammates,” Hendricks said.
The Lancers have eight incoming freshman this year. These players should also make a difference for the Lancers.

This starts with John Lillie, Nick Karnes, Jose Briseno, Santos Gonzales, Angel De Lao, Zach Walsh, Chandler Olmo, and Brandon Fry.

With over half of the Lancers being freshman, it may be difficult for them in the beginning part of the season.

Once these players start to learn their way around NAIA soccer, they have a solid approach.

“We have a lot of young players, and sometimes that is very evident. We are a talented team, but we still need to learn,” Hendricks said.

“We are going to have to learn how to win. We may win a game or to because we don’t know any better, but it will be a learning process.”

Nearing the end of the year, the Lancers would like to be in position to earn a spot in the Great Plains Athletic Conference tournament.

To make this a reality, the Lancers are going to have to finish in the top nine at the very least.

“This is a very achievable goal. If we stay healthy and positive we should do well,” Hendricks added.

Lady Lancers Return Solid Core

BY SCOTT MORRISON

Although their record doesn’t do them justice, the Mount Marty Women’s Soccer team (2-15(0-12 GPAC) made strides in their improvement last year.

Coach Dan Hendricks, who enters his second year as head coach, thinks that this year could be a solid season for his girls.

“It was tough as a first year coach to implement my system and get to know the girls, but now that we have spent a year together, it should be easier,” Hendricks said.

It should help that the Lancers have one of their most solid groups of returning players in school history.

This starts with team leader and junior striker Lauren Donlin. Throughout her short two-year career at Mount Marty College, Donlin has surprised everyone.

As a freshman Donlin set the school record for goals in a single season with 12. Last year she improved on that by scoring 16 goals in her sophomore campaign.

Donlin holds Mount Marty records for most points in a season, most goals in a career, and most points in a career.

“Lauren is an outstanding talent. It is possible that she is one of the top ten players in the (Great Plains Athletic Conference),” Hendricks said.

Donlin is expected to spearhead an offensive attack that is expected to be more powerful this season.

Complementing Donlin is sophomore striker Abby Hunhoff. Hunhoff, who scored six goals last year, is a physical presence who always has her mind on getting the ball on net.

“Abby is the second leading scorer returning to our team. She is physical player who goes after the ball and doesn’t stop,” Hendricks said.

Sophome April Dolezal is expected to play a key role on the defensive side of the ball. She is a team leader who should anchor the ball movement in the Lancer’s zone.

“April is one of our team captains who leads with her play. She is perhaps best at winning headers and clearing the ball out of our own end,” Hendricks said.

Standing behind Dolezal is first year goalie Abby Dickes. Dickes is going to have to play well for the Lancers to have success.

“This is Abby’s first year and we are excited about what she offers the team. She is doing very well so far.

Among the remaining returners juniors Theresa Condon and Sara Haase have both helped the Lancers on and off the field.

Condon is an outside midfielder and Haase is a center midfielder. Both girls earned NAIA Academic All-American honors.

Stephanie Schultz, Jennifer Bautista, and Betsy Tucker are also returning.

The Lancers have a number of freshman who will play a important role on the team throughout the year.

Because the GPAC has expanded the number of teams entering the conference tournament from six to eight, it is not unrealistic to say that the Lancers could earn a berth.

In fact making the tournament is the Lancers ultimate goal for the season.

They are participating in a grueling schedule that includes a number of quality non-conference teams and the usual difficulty that is in the GPAC.

Among one of their most important goals, the Lancers hope to continue improving throughout the year.

Lancers Talent Ready For 2008

BY SCOTT MORRISON
sports@yankton.net

With a group of young girls last season, the Mount Marty College Lancer Volleyball squad (7-22 (2-14 GPAC)) had difficulties staying afloat in the GPAC last year.

However, after losing only two girls to graduation, the Lancers are excited because their potential to compete with throughout the year.

Eighth year coach Tracy Grotenhuis and her girls are aiming to improve on last season and find out just how good they can be.

“Our goal this year is to improve. We have worked hard throughout the spring and in these first weeks of fall to get better. Everyone is eager to show what they are capable of,” Grotenhuis said.

Unlike last year, where many girls were still young, leadership is going to be a key for the Lancers.

“The best thing that we can take from last year is our experience. We basically knew what we had to work on in the off-season and now it is time to show we’ve improved,” Grotenhuis said.

The leadership starts with the Lancers three seniors.

Setter Abby Haiar is the most notable of the three. Haiar was selected as a member of the Great Plains Athletic Conference 2nd team last year.

Haiar is the pulse of the Lancers offense. She is best at running a quick attack that keeps opponents off-balance.

“Abby has great ability to lead the team. She runs a quick offense and she is able to get the ball to our hitters without problems,” Grotenhuis said.

Senior right side hitter Emily Rasmussen should also play a substantial role in the team’s offence. Hitters may prove to be a determining factor for the team’s success.

Rasmussen has been a starter the last three years and was second on the team in kills last year. She is looked at as a strength on the outside.

Senior outside hitter Lindsay Beacom is also expected to step up this year. Beacom had an outstanding spring and is confident that she can take on a full-time role this year.

“Lindsay split time on varsity last year, but had an exceptional spring. We hope that she can into her own this year,” Grotenhuis said.

Also returning for the Lancers are junior middle hitter Kate Carda and sophomore Libero Carly Benson.

Carda is expected to contribute from an attack position. Although she lacks size, she makes up for it in quickness.

“Kate is probably our quickest attacker. She moves fast on the court and we hope she can have a breakout season,” Grotenhuis said.

Benson was the Lancers defensive anchor last year. She started every game and was a foundation for a solid defense.

Anne Hansen, a transfer student from Williston State Junior College, is expected to be a solid defensive player for the Lancers. She has two years remaining to contribute to the team.

Sophomore right back Magie Goree should do well with a year of experience under her belt. Sophomore Kristi Wallers can see time from the defensive specialist position.

Sophomore Krystal Cihak is expected to compete for a spot on the outside.

A newcomer that should contribute well to the Lancers attack is freshman Megan Phillips. She plans to make the transition from middle hitter to outside hitter.

The Lancers begin their season with a home opening triangular against Waldorf College and Dakota State University at Cimpl Arena today.

They start with Waldorf at 11:00 a.m. and Dakota State University at 3:00 p.m..

“We are going to have to work hard to have a strong season this year. Our schedule is difficult and the GPAC is going to be competitive again this year,” Grotenhuis said.

Lancers Fired Up For XC Season

BY SCOTT MORRISON
sports@yankton.net

Beginning his second year as head coach for the Mount Marty College Cross Country team, Randy Fischer has the numbers to have a quality season.

In his first year as head coach, Fischer did not have enough runners to fill up a team until the conference meet. He borrowed a few MMC women’s soccer players to give them a chance to compete with the remainder of the Great Plains Athletic Conference.

This year on the women’s side, numbers aren’t going to be a problem. The Lancers have 12 girls that hope to battle with GPAC competition.

“Last year we didn’t have the numbers, but we are excited about having a full team this year,” Fischer said.

Of the twelve girls running for the Lancers, there are only three of which who are returning. These girls need to use their experience from last year to lead the way this year.

Megan O’Grady, a junior from Tyndall, was the best runner for the Lancers. She finished with a team best 19:42.00.

“Megan is one of our best athletes. She came on in the last part of the season and broke 20:00 numerous times. We are expecting a lot from her this year,” Fischer said.

Fischer and the Lancers hope that O’Grady can be a leader for some of the younger girls this season.

Senior Jessica Albers is also expected to have a strong year. Albers earned a career best 22:12 last year. Albers should also be a team leader.

“Jessica improved a ton from the beginning of the season to the end. We hope that she can be a leader this season,” Fischer said.

Sophomore Ashley Solem is the Lancers final returner. Solem battled injuries last season and hopes that she can compete pain free this year.

With the number on new players on their team this year, the Lancers have an exceptionally bright future ahead of them.

This starts with freshman and former Yankton Gazelle standout Jade Steinberg. Steinberg Gazelle team won four state championships in her high school career.

“Jade brings quality experience to our team. We think that she is a great fit for our team,” Fischer said.

Other new runners that begin their college cross country careers include Brittany Fischer, Amy Gubbels, Alicia Pick, Vanessa Lectenberg, Becka Jensen, Megan Poppe, and a cast of other girls.

Poppe, a freshman from Avon, plans to use cross country as a conditioner for her basketball and track seasons.

Poppe has never competed in cross country before, but it should pay dividends for her conditioning.

On the mens’ side the Lancers have five runners competing this year. With such a limited number of athletes, everyone must do well on an individual basis.

This starts with distance standout Titus Cosgey. Cosgey, a sophomore from Africa, should be a standout on the Lancer squad.

The Lancers also have runners Lantz Kulp, Caleb Herreen, Mithcell Zink, and Tyler Smith.

Fischer’s teams begin competition at the USD Invite in Vermillion on September 6. The Mount Marty Invitational is to be held October 25th in Vermillion.

Given their youthful exuberance, the Lancers may have a bit of learning to do. As the Lancers begin their season, their success is going to depend on the adjustments they can make.

Some of the Lancers veteran runners need to step up to help some of the younger runners. They hope for positive results throughout the season.

“We are looking for improvements from last year. We have a young team that has the ability move up in the GPAC standings. We will be happy if we can be in the middle of the GPAC standings,” Fischer said.

This may prove difficult given the talent level throughout the remainder of the conference.
“The GPAC is very tough and all schools are going to be tough. We have to rise up and compete to our potential,” Fischer added.

Freshmen Orientation

Cody Gramkow, Dustin Wheeler, and Joey Stahl showed the freshmen how important it is to manage their time wisely in this skit.

Orientation leaders Gina Emanuel, Ariel Klein, Dave Schmit, Brooke Stones, Briana Fiegen, and Cody Juffer took a break to pose for this picture.

These freshmen anxiously awaited the next object in the human scavenger hunt.

The human scavenger hunt turned out to be a blast!

These freshmen enjoyed an icebreaker at orientation.

Photos by Theresa Condon

Mount Marty Blessing Ceremony

Freshman students, their parents, and Mount Marty Faculty listen as the Orientation Blessing Ceremony starts on Friday August 22, 2008.

A full church listens as the core values of Mount Marty College are explained.

It was an emotional goodbye for some parents after the Orientation Blessing Ceremony.

Photos by Bethany Bakker

Want to Win $25??

ONLY A FEW DAYS LEFT TO ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!!

FACULTY, STAFF & Students: Could you use some MMC spirit wear? Win a $25 Gift Certificate to the Pages Bookstore!

We’ve had a good response from students (but would certainly appreciate more), but the Mount Marty College faculty and staff have been very quiet…we need and want your opinion too. Plans are already in the works for improvements for next year and we’d like to know what you’d like to see.

Simply fill out Readership Survey openly and honestly to let us know what you like and what needs improvement in THE MODERATOR. Including your name is optional, but necessary if you wish to be entered in the drawing. All contents of submitted surveys will be confidential and used only to help improve THE MODERATOR.

Please note – Surveys must be submitted by midnight on Friday, April 25th to be eligible for the drawing.

Two gift certificates will be awarded – one for a faculty or staff member and one for a student.

The winners will be announced in the April 30th issue of THE MODERATOR.

Happy Reading and GOOD LUCK!!

TAKE THE MODERATOR READERSHIP SURVEY NOW!

MMC's Spring Theatrical Production: The Wakefield Mysteries

The audience of MMC's production of The Wakefield Mysteries on Saturday, April 5th, 2008 were in for a very unique performance - the first of its kind ever presented at the College.

The five scene play took place at four different points along the College's east entrance avenue where audience members could sit as the various scenes where performed on wagons that moved from point to point. The production included over 90 cast and crew members.

Scene One: Hail Mary

God, played by Tony Lazarowicz

Mary, played by Rachel Moser, informs Joseph, played by Kris Falkena, that she has been chosen to mother the child of God.

Scene Two: A Baby Raises a Ruckus

Joseph, played by Joey Stahl, and Mary, played by Karie Gundrum, watch over the infant Jesus.

Scene Three: Miracle and Revolt.

Here Jesus, played by Cesar Juarez, bring Lazarus, Aaron Sheldon, back to life.

Pontius Pilate, played by Dmitri Baumgart, decides the fate of Jesus.

Scene Four: Torture and Crucifixion

Mary, played by Sara Veldhuizen, grieves for her son's pain. (Jesus played by Jim Wilcynski.)


Scene Five: An Empty Tomb - Victory

Jesus, played by Jordon Foos, rises again and reveals himself to his mother, played by Sarah DeCock.

Photos by Jill Paulson