It’s graduation day for many, so I’ll keep this intro short.
Hailey O’Daniel, Owen Miller and Ethan Baessler are the final Nannen Physical Therapy Athletes of the Week for the 2023-2024 school year. It’s been another fun one sharing their successes with you again these past nine-to-10 months. Thanks for reading.
Hailey O’Daniel, Arlington track and field: The Class C state champion 1,600-meter runner stopped the clock in 5:14.99. She also broke the school record of Keelianne Green running the 800, finishing second. Now, I wish her continued luck in rodeo as she chases another National High School Finals Rodeo appearance. Special recognition this week goes to three seniors who led the way for AHS’ second-place state finish — Nolan May, Kevin Flesner and Kaden Foust. Congrats gentlemen.
Owen Miller, Fort Calhoun golf: The Pioneer shot FCHS’ low score at the district meet — 88 strokes — capping a prep career that earned him a college opportunity in Hastings. He steadily improved throughout his run and I wish him well. Congratulations are in order for state track medalist Emilee Thayer-Mencke as well as 400-relay school record-holding senior Preston Johnson, who capped a brilliant final season with the Pioneers at state.
Ethan Baessler, Blair track and field: Nobody in Nebraska sprints faster than this future South Dakota Coyote. The all-class gold medalist won both the 100- and 200-meter dashes in Class B state track competition, while also bettering his Class B state record in the 100 — 10.5 seconds. Special mention to Reece Ewoldt who leads everyone in Nannen Athlete of the Week special mentions from me after she won the 1,600 run at state, too.
Thanks again for reading and congratulations to everyone who picked up their diploma Sunday. Have a good summer.
