OMAHA, Neb. – Nearly 1,000 students received diplomas and certificates from the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) during commencement ceremonies held across the state earlier this month. Graduation events took place May 8 in Lincoln, Norfolk and Kearney, and May 10 in Omaha and Scottsbluff, recognizing the accomplishments of students from a wide range of health care disciplines.

The following students from the POST area were among those who earned degrees: (Some graduating students are not listed below. They have requested their information not be released to the public.)

UNMC College of Dentistry (Lincoln)
Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene

College of Nursing – Kearney Division
Bachelor of Science in Nursing

College of Nursing – Lincoln Division
Bachelor of Science in Nursing

College of Nursing – Scottsbluff Division
Bachelor of Science in Nursing

College of Allied Health Professions – Kearney
Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging &amp; Therapeutic Sciences

Post Baccalaureate Professional Certificate in Diagnostic Medical Sonography

College of Allied Health Professions – Omaha
Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science

Graduate College
Master of Healthcare Delivery Science

These graduates represent the next generation of health care professionals who will serve communities across Nebraska and beyond. The University of Nebraska Medical Center congratulates each of them on their accomplishments and wishes them success as they embark on their careers.

Local Graduates Earn Degrees from University of Nebraska Medical Center

LAKE McCONAUGHY, Neb - As we head into peak camping and fishing season at Lake McConaughy, here’s your latest report brought to you by Sphaun’s Marine in Big Springs and Buzz’s Marine in Kearney, your go-to boating experts for a safe and enjoyable summer on the water.

Lake Conditions – May 16, 2025
Lake McConaughy is currently sitting at 61% capacity, with water temperatures hovering around 52°F. While it’s a bit chilly for swimming just yet, anglers are enjoying productive days on the lake, especially those chasing walleye, smallmouth bass, and catfish.

Upcoming Tournaments
Get ready for a big week of competitive angling:

These events promise exciting action and will bring top-tier anglers from across the region to our waters.

Camping &amp; Reservations
Camping season is officially here! Superintendent Patrick Schnell reminds visitors that dry conditions have prompted a statewide burn ban in Nebraska. This means no wood-burning campfires, but propane grills and fire pits are still allowed—just no open flames involving wood.

Reservation season kicked off May 20, so now’s the time to plan your Memorial Day Weekend getaway.

Weather Watch &amp; Safety
A severe thunderstorm recently swept through the area, producing 50–70 mph winds. There is still storm debris—including fallen limbs—in many areas. Crews are hard at work cleaning up, but visitors should remain cautious.

All four docks at Lake McConaughy were pulled on May 15 due to sustained high winds and forecasts. Docks will remain out any time gusts are expected to exceed 30–40 mph for safety. Keep an eye on the weather before heading out, and be prepared for sudden changes.

Free Park Entry Day – May 17
Don’t forget—Saturday, May 17 is Free Park Entry Day in Nebraska. No park entry permit is required at any state park. Fishing is also free, although all other regulations still apply. It’s a perfect time to explore the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

From Superintendent Patrick Schnell and our partners at Sphan’s Marine and Buzz’s Marine, have a safe and enjoyable time at the lake. Respect the weather, follow fire safety guidelines, and enjoy everything Lake McConaughy has to offer!

Lake Mac Report (Weekend of May 16, 2025)

POST PODCAST With Jordan &amp; Todd Namuth from Outy Obsession

Eagle's Derek Beck spoke with Jordan and Todd Namuth about next Saturday's First Annual 5K Run.Walk.Remember in Ogallala. Enjoy the Conversation, heard on Z93.5 Country's Sandhills Spotlight!INFO:This Memorial Weekend, join Outy Obsession in Ogallala, Nebraska for our First Annual 5K RUN/WALK — a powerful morning dedicated to honoring those who served and sacrificed for our freedom

&nbsp;Saturday, May 24th | 9:00 AM

Starting at the Ogallala Softball Fields Parking Lot(Check-in opens at 8:00 AM with coffee &amp; juice on-site)

Whether you're running for a veteran in your life, walking in memory of a fallen hero, or simply showing your support, your steps carry meaning&nbsp;

Why this 5K matters:Outy Obsession is a Nebraska-based nonprofit devoted to getting veterans and youth outdoors — hosting life-changing experiences like guided hunts and fishing trips that bring healing, community, and purpose.Every dollar raised from this 5K goes directly to these events.REGISTRATION HERE:<a href="https://www.eventcreate.com/e/outyobsession5k?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOVNLU3FRUUU1RnN1Tm4zRAEez7ktw6WTKS4sPpHobJVpcer2-1kuOqndYNdP2jPvL-rMuZAyKI5K7TxqYcc_aem_hdXhipQkjS2DpnwpsoiNHw" target="_blank">https://www.eventcreate.com/e/outyobsession5k</a>Let’s rally together this Memorial Weekend. For the brave. For the fallen. For the ones still healing.Thank you to all who’ve already registered! WE CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU THERE

🎙️​ 1st Run.Walk.Remember 5k Next Saturday in Ogallala, Conversation with Jordan & Todd Namuth (Podcast)

KEITH COUNTY, Neb. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced the start of a new sign-up period for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), and Nebraska Game and Parks is jumping in with a suite of incentives aimed at encouraging landowners to enroll.

The general and continuous CRP sign-up began Monday and will run through June 6. Biologist Addie Piernicky with Nebraska Game and Parks says this year’s sign-up is especially important for boosting habitat in key areas across the state.

“We’ve been waiting for this year,” Piernicky said in an interview. “We have a bunch of incentives through the Nebraska Game and Park Commission, especially in areas we’ve identified as critical pheasant habitat.”

CRP is a voluntary program that compensates agricultural producers for removing environmentally sensitive land from production and planting species that improve environmental health. Nebraska Game and Parks is working to sweeten the deal for landowners, offering targeted incentive payments in counties like Keith, Perkins, and across Southwest Nebraska.

“If you enroll in CRP and agree to five years of public access through the Open Fields and Waters program, you could qualify for a $75 per-acre signing incentive payment through our pheasant plan,” Piernicky said.

The incentives aren’t limited to public access participants. Game and Parks offers additional support for seeding and land preparation, even for those not participating in access programs.

“We have incentives just to say thank you for enrolling in CRP,” Piernicky added.

The state’s conservation push also includes the Nebraska Community Access Partnership program, which provides a one-time bonus for landowners opening their CRP or rangeland to walk-in public access. Eligible landowners in Keith, Garden,&nbsp;Deuel, and Arthur counties can receive up to $100 per acre in total bonuses, depending on land type and location.

“We tell people, ‘farm the best and conserve the rest,’” Piernicky said. “We know where those acres are that just aren’t producing for you. With CRP, you can make them work for wildlife and for your bottom line.”

Game and Parks also offers technical assistance. A team of biologists, including Madison Fell and new farm bill biologist Hayley in Sidney, are available to help landowners navigate the programs.

A notable new CRP practice gaining traction is the “prairie strips” initiative, which allows producers to convert marginal areas like pivot corners into diverse plantings of grasses and wildflowers. These strips are not only habitat-friendly but also producer-friendly: they’re driveable during harvest and can qualify for up to a 20% increase in annual CRP payments.

With high sand content in many soils across Nebraska, Piernicky said the prairie strips program has resulted in a significant boost in payments for participants.

“People are really seeing a bump in what they’re earning annually,” she said.

Landowners interested in enrolling or learning more about incentives can contact Nebraska Game and Parks biologists in their area.

“Give us a shout,” Piernicky said. “We’re here to help.”

<a href="https://nebraskapf.com/nebraska-hunting/">Get more information here</a>

📺​ CRP Continuous CRP Sign Up Offering Landowner Incentives for CRP and Public Access, Interview with Addie Piernicky

OGALLALA, Neb. (May 9, 2025)&nbsp;— As spring continues to unfold across western Nebraska, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts are flocking to Lake McConaughy—Nebraska’s largest reservoir—for prime fishing, camping, and early-season recreation.&nbsp;

Post-spawn activity has shifted walleye into deeper water, but according to recent reports, anglers are still having success. Smallmouth bass activity has been particularly strong, with excellent results recorded at two recent fishing tournaments.&nbsp;

Water conditions remain favorable heading into mid-May. The current water level at Lake McConaughy sits at 3,239.2 feet elevation, equating to 1,069,200 acre-feet, or roughly 61.3% of the reservoir’s total capacity.&nbsp;

Shower houses are now in service at several major recreation areas, including Cedar View, Arthur Bay, and Lake Ogallala. Additional facilities at Lone Eagle, Little Thunder, and Martin Bay are expected to open soon, pending water quality test results.&nbsp;

All fish cleaning stations around the lake are open for use, and docks have been installed at multiple ramps including Diver’s Bay, Martin Bay (low water), Lemoyne, Cedar View, and both north and south ramps at Lake Ogallala.&nbsp;

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reminds campers that&nbsp;reservation season begins May 20, and&nbsp;advance reservations are required&nbsp;for overnight stays at Lake McConaughy throughout the summer. Reservations can be made online at&nbsp;<a href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/">OutdoorNebraska.gov</a>.&nbsp;

A temporary&nbsp;campfire ban&nbsp;remains in effect for Nebraska state recreation areas in central and western parts of the state—including Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala—through&nbsp;May 10&nbsp;due to fire safety concerns.&nbsp;

The most recent water temperature reading at the dam was&nbsp;50 degrees Fahrenheit, signaling that peak fishing conditions are just around the corner.&nbsp;

Several upcoming events are scheduled around the reservoir:&nbsp;

Lake McConaughy, located just north of Ogallala, continues to be a top destination for outdoor recreation in the Midwest. For updates on lake conditions, camping, and events, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://visitkeithcounty.com/">VisitKeithCounty.com</a>.&nbsp;

Information provided by Visit Keith County and the Keith County Visitors Committee.&nbsp;

Lake Mac Report, May 9 2025

North Platte, Neb. — Backyard poultry producers and enthusiasts will have the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of flock health, nutrition, housing, and economics during a two-day seminar hosted by Nebraska Extension.

The seminar will be held May 2 in Kearney at the Buffalo County Extension Office, 1400 E. 34th Street, and May 3 in North Platte at the West Central Research, Extension, and Education Center, 402 West State Farm Road. Both events run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the North Platte seminar will also be available online via webinar.

PODCAST with Extension Educator Randy Saner (Sponsored by North Platte Kubota)

The seminar will feature presentations from poultry and agricultural experts:

The goal of the seminar is to equip attendees with knowledge and tools to improve disease management and sustainable practices for backyard poultry operations.

The $25 registration fee includes a meal for in-person attendees and access for webinar participants.

Backyard Poultry Seminar Set for May 3 in North Platte (PODCAST)

The Spahn Marine Lake Mac Report — your go-to source for the latest news, water conditions, and fishing action from Nebraska’s largest lake, Lake McConaughy.

First things first:&nbsp;If you’re having boat motor trouble, help is just down the road.&nbsp;Spahn Marine in Big Springs&nbsp;is a&nbsp;Mercury Marine Premier Dealer&nbsp;with&nbsp;Mercury-certified technicians&nbsp;who are ready to get you back on the water fast. Give them a call at&nbsp;308-889-3531.

Now for the fishing: Did you know that of the 125 Master Angler walleye caught across Nebraska last year, a whopping&nbsp;90 came from Lake McConaughy? And that’s not all — the lake claimed top honors with both the&nbsp;heaviest&nbsp;(15 lbs 2 oz) and&nbsp;longest&nbsp;(32") walleye. So far this year,&nbsp;three more 32-inchers&nbsp;have been caught, and just this week there were&nbsp;multiple reports of 10+ pound walleye&nbsp;being reeled in. The spring bite is on!

Boat &amp; Shore Fishing Update:Anglers trolling large crankbaits along the face of Kingsley Dam are finding success, while bank anglers are doing well with jigs and crankbaits.&nbsp;Thanks to Jake Fahrenbruch&nbsp;for the latest report from the water.

Docks are now in&nbsp;at Divers Bay, Martin Bay (low water), Lemoyne, Cedar View, and both the north and south ramps at Lake Ogallala.

Boater Reminder:From sunset to sunrise through&nbsp;April 30, boats within 30 yards of Kingsley Dam must travel&nbsp;counter-clockwise&nbsp;(south-to-north) due to spawning regulations.&nbsp;All boats must stay at least 200 feet away&nbsp;from the dam's outlet and morning glory structures.

Coming Up:Don’t miss the&nbsp;Catfish Classic Tournament&nbsp;next&nbsp;Saturday, May 3&nbsp;at Lake McConaughy. For more details, contact&nbsp;Chad Vogl at (308) 355-2321.

That wraps up this week’s&nbsp;Spahn Marine Lake Mac Report. Catch more updates at&nbsp;SandhillsPost.com. This report is brought to you by&nbsp;Spahn Marine in Big Springs&nbsp;and our friends at&nbsp;Buzz’s Marine in Kearney.

Lake Mac Report for Weekend of April 25th, 2025

OGALLALA, Neb. (AP) — April 24, 2025 — The Ogallala Goodall YMCA is preparing for a busy summer, with swim lessons, youth programs, a global peace event, and an urgent call for lifeguards to help staff its large community pool.

Melissa Ewert with the YMCA told the Post that swim lessons will begin in May and continue through June. Levels five and six will run May 19-30. Levels one through four are scheduled for June 16–27. Additionally, classes for toddlers and infants, including preschool-level instruction, are set for the week of June 16.

LISTEN TO MELISSA INTERVIEW WITH SANDHILLS POST

In addition to aquatic activities, the YMCA is also gearing up to host a special event on Friday centered around a newly installed Peace Pole — a monument inscribed with “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in multiple languages. The pole, an international symbol of peace, was installed by the Ogallala Rotary Club and placed in a public space to promote unity and understanding.

“There’s people from all over the world that are going to be there, which is pretty cool,” said Ewert. A ceremony celebrating the installation is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Friday.

Ewert also emphasized the need for lifeguards this summer, citing the size and activity level of the YMCA pool. “It takes eight guards during the day and another seven at night on a busy day,” she said, noting the organization is flexible with students’ schedules and eager to provide young people with their first job experience.

In addition, the YMCA has brought back its “Rugrats” program, a weekly activity for children ages 2 to 5. Held on Wednesdays at 10 a.m., the program is designed to keep toddlers active for 30 to 40 minutes through fun, engaging activities — with the added hope that they’ll be ready for a nap afterward.

For more information on lifeguard applications, swim lessons, or youth programs, residents are encouraged to contact the Ogallala Goodall YMCA directly.

Ogallala YMCA Announces Swim Lessons, Peace Pole Ceremony and Lifeguard Openings (PODCAST)

OGALLALA, Neb. — April 24, 2025 — Soap box derby season is set to roll out this Saturday in Ogallala, where young racers from across the country will gather at the Wild West Soap Box Derby Track for a day of head-to-head competition.

Located at 1502 North Spruce Street, the event will begin early with pit crews arriving at 7:30 a.m. for registration, vehicle inspections, and weigh-ins. The first race is expected to start around 9:30 a.m., according to Rally Director Bob Collins, a longtime organizer who’s been with the Wild West Soap Box Derby for more than 25 years.

“We’ll try to get all the cars weighed in, get everybody registered, and get their wheels checked — they can’t run their own wheels, they run ours,” Collins said. “Then we’ll get the cars scaled and the first race hopefully around 9:30. It should be a pretty full day.”

LISTEN TO RALLY DIRECTOR BOB COLLINS CHAT WITH DEREK BECK

Organizers anticipate between 30 and 40 cars will compete, with participants traveling from states including Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, and occasionally from as far away as California, Nevada, and Florida.

Racing is free for spectators, and attendees are encouraged to support the on-site concession stand. This weekend's event is billed as a "Double/Double," meaning racers will compete in back-to-back heats across all three divisions: Stock, Super Stock, and Masters.

Collins expressed gratitude to sponsors who make the event possible, including the Ogallala Optimist Club, Pinnacle Bank, Adams Bank &amp; Trust, Kent’s Towing, NB Properties, and All Tech Electric. He added that the derby is actively seeking additional sponsors. Interested businesses can contact Collins at 308-289-6050 or Local Director Dave Barrett at 308-289-1464. <a href="https://ogallala.soapboxderby.org/">Get more info here</a>

Soap Box Derby Season Launches in Ogallala with Weekend Races (PODCAST)

Ogallala, NE - This report is sponsored by Sphans Marine in Big Springs &amp; Buzz Marine in Kearney.

Inflows to Lake McConaughy are at 851 cubic meter feet per second, that’s down about 70 from last week and down almost 200 cubic meter feet per second from a year ago this week.&nbsp;DOCKS are in at Divers Bay, Martin Bay low water, and Lake Ogallala north and south ramps. Lemoyne is expected to go in soon. (Note: if the wind is forecasted to be greater than 20 mph, docks will be pulled half to all the way out, depending on wind direction.)&nbsp;

WATER LEVEL is at 1,062,600ac-ft (61% capacity)&nbsp;

Water temperatures earlier this week near Kingsley Damm in the morning were around 44 degrees...&nbsp;Daytime anglers continue to have some pre-spawn success at Lake McConaughy. The walleye spawn is just around the corner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Upcoming events, Try your luck at the Catfish Classic fishing tournament Saturday, May 3 at Lake Mac. Call Chad Vogl at (308) 355-2321 for more information.&nbsp;

Lake Mac Report | April 11, 2025

North Platte, Neb. - The Prairie Arts Center in North Platte has announced that their will be some fun upcoming fundraisers the PAC will be hosting. Also raffle tickets will be sold for some painted chairs with cool designs. More and more classes are being added to the website and if you have a youth, you still have time to sign up for summer classes.

POST news director Canon Rath chatted with Holly Carlini from the PAC about all the news things going on. The Prairie Arts Center is open Tuesday - Saturday from 11am - 4pm. To view the PAC website,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prairieartscenter.org/">click here.</a>&nbsp;to learn more, check out the podcast below.

(Audio) Prairie Arts Center announces upcoming fundraisers, raffle ticket prizes, upcoming classes and more!

Today on Sandhills Spotlight on Z 93.5 Country at 9am MT/10am CT, Derek talks with Craig Drauker from Drauker Funeral Home , talking about 40 years in the Funeral Home business , also on the program today,&nbsp;Bob Lantis with Nebraskaland Days will preview the Buffalo Bill Rodeo which is 34 days away from today.&nbsp;

Plus, News, Community Calendar, Birthdays, Funeral Announcements and What's For Sale. <a href="https://z935country.com/">Listen online here.</a>

Today on Sandhills Spotlight on Z 93.5 Country (May 16, 2025)

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers gave final approval Thursday to a $11 billion, two-year state budget package that closes a projected $260 million deficit and modestly increases state spending.

The budget package, crafted by the Legislature’s Appropriations Committee, represents a 0.9% increase in state expenditures over the next two fiscal years. Lawmakers passed six key components of the budget, including the mainline budget bill, LB261, on a 37-11 vote.

LB261 includes several provisions rolled into the bill from other legislation. Among them:

Lawmakers also passed LB264 on a 35-13 vote. The bill authorizes fund transfers, including $216 million from state agency cash funds and $147 million from the state’s Cash Reserve Fund. It leaves roughly $684 million in the so-called “rainy day fund.”

Gov. Jim Pillen praised lawmakers for approving what he called a historically conservative and balanced budget.

“This budget puts money toward education, property tax relief, and elimination of the developmental disability waitlist,” Pillen said in a statement. “It also bolsters our national nuclear security, all while closing the $432 million deficit reported in November.”

Pillen said he would review the package for possible line-item vetoes to trim additional spending.

Nebraska lawmakers approve $11 billion budget package, close projected deficit

The Hot Sheets: May 16, 2025

Lincoln&nbsp;– From May 14 through May 17,&nbsp;volunteer motorcyclists will travel over 1,000 miles across Nebraska to collect letters written by youth and raise awareness about children’s mental health.

During the ride, volunteer riders will reenact the mail-delivery service of the historic Pony Express by collecting letters written by youth, their families, and other supporters about the importance of children’s mental health, their personal experiences, and their journey with mental health.

The tradition of the Pony Express Ride is centered on mental health being fundamental to overall health for individuals of all ages. This year, riders, youth, behavioral health regions, family members, and other key stakeholders will focus on knowing yourself to grow yourself. Each individual approach to mental health reflects their unique needs, background, and environment.

The ride will finish at the Nebraska State Capitol at 1:30 pm. on Saturday, May 17, where the riders will deliver these letters to DHHS Division of Behavioral Health Director, Dr. Thomas Janousek.

“Raising awareness and reducing stigma around childhood mental health sets a sturdy foundation for positive mental health in adulthood,” said Dr. Janousek. “The dedication of these riders reflects the important need to support the mental health journey of kids and individuals of all ages. Walking with someone experiencing a mental health challenge can have a long-lasting impact and be as simple as speaking kindly or calling to remind them they are not alone.”

If you or a loved one need assistance, please reach out to:

Annual Pony Express Ride continues through western Nebraska and state 

North Platte, NE — People’s Health is excited to announce a significant increase in the income eligibility guidelines for the Nebraska Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program, effective May 1, 2025. This change means that more Nebraska families may now qualify for vital nutrition assistance through WIC.

The updated guidelines reflect a notable increase over last year’s levels. For instance, a family of one can now earn up to $2,413 monthly, and a family of four can earn up to $4,957 monthly and still qualify — making participation more accessible to families across the state.&nbsp;

“These updated guidelines are great news for both our current participants and for families who may now be eligible for the first time,” said Jodi Sonneman, Executive Director a People’s Health. “We encourage all families to check the new income levels and see if they qualify.”&nbsp;

Eligibility for the Nebraska WIC Program is based on household income and nutritional risk. Income must be at or below 185% of the federal poverty level, aligning with the guidelines for reduced-price school meals. All WIC applicants must meet these income guidelines to participate.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Income guidelines are reviewed and updated annually by the Nebraska WIC Program in accordance with federal requirements. Updated figures are provided to local agencies by July 1 each year and are used to determine program eligibility.&nbsp;

Nebraska WIC Program Announces Increased Income Eligibility Guidelines — More Families May Now Qualify 

BROKEN BOW, Neb. (AP) — The Mid-Plains Community College Board of Governors approved multiple financial actions and personnel changes during its meeting Wednesday night at the college’s Broken Bow campus, following two brief public hearings on proposed property acquisitions in North Platte.

The meeting followed public comment sessions regarding the college’s planned purchase of Osgood School and a lot at 1905 Iron Eagle Court, both in North Platte.

Brad Garrick, owner of Top Tier martial arts gym currently housed in the Osgood School, expressed concerns about the purchase during the first hearing. No comments were made during the second hearing. The Board later authorized the college president to finalize both property purchases — $450,000 for Osgood School and $33,000 for the Iron Eagle Court lot — after June 13.

Board Chair Cynthia Duncan opened the regular session, with board members Kirk Crawley, Ted Klug Jr., Kim Korgan, Kent Miller and Tricia Schaffer in attendance. President Ryan Purdy and several vice presidents also provided updates. Five board members were excused.

In other action, the Board approved more than $2.3 million in April disbursements and several major expenditures, including:

The Board also approved a new six-year, $452,513.08 contract with Instructure Inc. for continued use of its Canvas Learning Management System, and set dual credit tuition at $0 for the 2025-26 school year.

Personnel decisions included 4% salary increases for non-negotiated staff, 3.75% raises for administrators, and a retirement contribution hike to 9.5%. Part-time employees received a 3% raise, and adjunct instructors will now be compensated at $975 per credit hour.

Additionally, the Board approved a new three-year contract for President Ryan Purdy, effective July 1, with a 2.5% salary increase and a 1.25% increase in retirement contribution.

The Board honored several adjunct faculty members for years of service and recognized retiring GED/ESL instructor Jane Garner with an award.

The meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m. The next regular meeting is scheduled for July 16 in McCook.

Mid-Plains Community College Board Approves Land Purchases, Raises, and Contracts at Broken Bow Meeting

The Hot Sheets: May 15, 2025

Story by NU Athletic Communication

Lincoln - Three-time Missouri Valley Conference Coach-of-the-Year Breanne Hall has been named the next head coach of the Nebraska women's golf program, Director of Athletics Troy Dannen announced on Thursday, May 15.

“We are thrilled to have Breanne Hall join us as the head coach of our women’s golf program,” Dannen said. “Breanne has built an impressive resume, first starting a program from the ground up at UNC Asheville, before raising the profile of Illinois State women’s golf to the top of the Missouri Valley Conference. She has great connections at all levels of the game and has a record of success recruiting student-athletes both throughout the United States and internationally. We look forward to Breanne’s leadership and exciting times ahead for Nebraska Women’s Golf!”

Hall, who won back-to-back MVC Coach-of-the-Year honors at Illinois State the past two seasons, led the Redbirds to three NCAA Tournament appearances over the past four seasons at ISU. She was also the 2022 Missouri Valley Conference Coach of the Year.

"I am incredibly honored and grateful to accept the position as head women's golf coach at the University of Nebraska. I want to sincerely thank Director of Athletics Troy Dannen, Deputy AD/Senior Woman Administrator Kristen Brown, and Associate Director of Compliance Jena Johnson for their belief in me and the vision we share for this program," Hall said. "Nebraska is a place with deep tradition and pride, and I'm beyond excited for the opportunity to lead these student-athletes and build on the foundation of excellence that defines Husker Athletics. While I'm incredibly excited for this next chapter at Nebraska, I also want to take a moment to thank Illinois State and UNC Asheville. I'm deeply grateful for the opportunities I had to grow as a coach and to lead so many outstanding student-athletes at both programs."

Hall's 2025 Illinois State team won the Missouri Valley Conference title by 31 strokes before finishing 11th at the NCAA Columbus Regional. Redbird Jinyoung Yun was named the MVC Golfer of the Year for the second straight season, while Morgan Jones was named MVC Newcomer of the Year and Elise Fennell was honored as the MVC Freshman of the Year. All three Redbirds were also named All-MVC and to the MVC All-Tournament Team, while teammate Jessica Jolly added All-MVC honors for the season.

In 2024, Illinois State won the Missouri Valley Conference title by 12 strokes with Ali Schrock sharing the tournament title. Yun was named MVC Golfer of the Year and joined Schrock on the all-tournament team. Avalon Woodward also captured All-MVC honors. The Redbirds went on to finish 12th at the NCAA East Lansing Regional. Schrock also capped her career as a three-time CSC Academic All-American with first-team honors in 2024.

The Redbirds earned their first conference title under Hall's direction in 2022 and their first MVC title in a decade, edging Missouri State by one stroke. Schrock was named the MVC Golfer of the Year while taking runner-up honors in the tournament. Woodward and Kehler Koss joined Schrock on the All-MVC team. Illinois State capped the year with a 12th-place finish at the NCAA Stillwater Regional.

During her time at Illinois State, Hall coached three MVC Golfers of the Year and 15 all-conference selections. Her teams produced the five best single-season scoring averages in school history over the past five years, while also putting up 15 of the top 16 three-round tournament scores in the ISU record book. Her teams also delivered 14 of the top 15 single-round scores in Redbird history.

Prior to taking over the top spot at Illinois State, Hall spent a season recruiting a roster before serving as the head coach for two seasons at UNC Asheville (2016-18). As the first head coach in history of the fledgling program, Hall led UNC Asheville to a pair of tournament titles in the first two seasons of the program's existence. Her team posted a nine-stroke improvement in scoring average from year one to year two. In 2018, the Bulldogs finished fifth at the Big South Championship.

Hall was a three-time All-MAC selection as a golfer at Toledo, after beginning her career at Northern Kentucky. The winner of the Michigan Women's Open in 2003, Hall competed in the Futures Tour Q-School after earning her bachelor's degree in organizational management from Toledo in 2004. Hall, who began her instructional career as an assistant professional at Manasquan River Golf Club in Brielle, N.J. (2005-06), served as an assistant professional at Grove Park Inn Resort &amp; Spa in Asheville, N.C. (2007-08), before spending four years as the head professional at the resort (2008-12) and one year as the club manager (2012-13). She became a PGA Class A member in 2012.&nbsp;

She served as the director of golf instruction at Mountain Air Country Club in Burnsville, N.C. (2013-16) prior to embarking on her collegiate coaching career.

Hall’s hiring comes two months after Jeanne Sutherland announced her retirement as Nebraska’s head coach on March 14. Hall becomes the sixth head coach in the 50-year history of the Husker women’s golf program.

Hall named Husker Women's Golf Head Coach

Story by NU Athletic Communications

Nebraska mounted its largest comeback since 2010 to pick up an 11-9 win at Purdue on Thursday night at Alexander Field in West Lafayette, Ind.

The Huskers trailed 8-0 after three innings, making it the Big Red’s largest come-from-behind win since rallying from a 10-run deficit against North Dakota on March 30, 2010.

Nebraska (27-26, 14-14 Big Ten) scored 11 runs on 14 hits and an error, while Purdue (30-22, 10-18 Big Ten) totaled nine runs, 11 hits and two errors.

Dylan Carey was 2-for-4 with a homer, three RBI and two runs scored. Cayden Brumbaugh drove in three runs on a 2-for-6 night with a double. Riley Silva, Joshua Overbeek and Case Sanderson pieced together two-hit performances.

Robby Bolin drove in two runs and had a hit, while Gabe Swansen and Devin Nunez had RBI doubles and Hogan Helligso recorded a hit.

Tucker Timmerman surrendered eight runs on six hits across two innings. Caleb Clark, Pryce Bender and Grant Cleavinger teamed up to deal four scoreless innings in relief. Drew Christo improved to 2-2 on the season after allowing an unearned run on two hits in 1.2 innings of action.

Luke Broderick picked up his 11th save of the season, climbing to eighth on the single-season chart at Nebraska. The junior didn’t allow a run on a pair of hits across 1.1 innings on Thursday night.

Purdue scored five runs behind three hits in the bottom of the second to sprint out to a five-run advantage. The Boilermakers had the bases loaded with no outs after a single, walk and plunked batter. A second consecutive hit batter broke the scoreless deadlock, while an RBI single up the middle and a sacrifice fly to center had Purdue out front 3-0.

The Boilermakers stretched the lead to five in the second with a two-RBI single through the right side.

Purdue tacked on three more runs in the bottom of the third to grow the lead to 8-0. A leadoff homer to begin the inning, followed by two straight singles, extended the lead to seven. A sacrifice bunt with runners on first and third and one out brought home a third run in the inning and had the Boilermakers ahead 8-0 through three innings.

The Huskers responded with six runs on four hits and an error in the top of the fourth to climb back within 8-6. Carey scored the Big Red’s first run of the day with a leadoff homer over the wall in left-center field. Will Jesske reached on a fielding error, and Sanderson was plunked on full count to put runners on first and second with no outs.

A one-out RBI single to left field plated Jesske from second, while Silva was hit by the pitch on 0-1 count to load the bases. Brumbaugh cleared the bases with a three-RBI double to right field, before Swansen laced a first-pitch RBI double to the gap in left-center field to score Brumbaugh from second and bring the Huskers within two runs.

Nebraska had runners on the corners with one out in the top of the fifth after Sanderson singled through the right side and Helligso reached on a fielding error. Bolin laid down a sacrifice bunt to score Sanderson from third, and Helligso scored from second on Silva’s two-out RBI double to center field that locked the game at eight.

Bender, Cleavinger and Christo combined to keep the Boilermakers off the scoreboard in the fifth, sixth and seventh innings to send an 8-8 game into the top of the eighth inning.

The Husker offense plated three runs on three hits in the eighth to grab an 11-8 lead. Overbeek led off the inning with a double and advanced to third on a foul out. Swansen was hit by the pitch, before Jaron Cotton entered the game as a pinch-runner and moved to second on a passed ball.

Carey came through for the Huskers, ripping a two-RBI single through the left side to bring home Overbeek and Cotton and give Nebraska a 10-8 advantage. Nunez scored Carey from first on a pinch-hit RBI double to the wall in center field, extending NU’s lead to 11-8.

A single and an NU error in the bottom of the eighth led to a two-out RBI single through the right side that brought Purdue within 11-9 through eight innings.

Broderick worked around a two-out single in the bottom of the ninth to preserve Nebraska’s 11-9 win in the series opener on Thursday night.

Nebraska and Purdue are scheduled to continue the series tomorrow at Alexander Field. First pitch between the Big Red and Boilermakers is set for 3 p.m. CT on B1G+.

Huskers erase early deficit at Purdue

Area District Track and Field Class C 

Area District Track and Field results from 5-14

Kearney, Neb. – The 22nd-ranked Nebraska Kearney women's tennis team won four singles matches in straight sets to upset 14th-ranked Washburn, <a href="https://lopers.com/sports/womens-tennis/stats/2024-25/washburn/boxscore/8394">4-2</a>, in an NCAA Central Regional second round match Tuesday in Topeka.&nbsp;

The third seeded Lopers (20-5), who beat Central Oklahoma on Monday, advance to the "<a href="https://www.ncaa.com/news/tennis-women/article/2025-05-13/2025-ncaa-dii-womens-tennis-championship-bracket-scores-schedule">Sweet 16"</a> in Altamonte Springs, Fla., for a second consecutive season. They'll play an opponent to be determined on May 21 (Wednesday) with duals held every day until the National Championship May 25. UNK now has 11 all-time NCAA wins with the 2008 and 2009 Loper squads having back-to-back Sweet 16 trips as well. Last year, the Lopers reached the Elite 8 for the first time behind seniors Melisa Becerra and Jazmin Zamorano.

Earlier this year at the Ernest Grundy Tennis Center, Washburn (17-4) beat UNK by a 4-3 score as they took the doubles point and then won in straight sets at one, three and five singles. Today, they again won doubles but almost had a completely new singles lineup.

The Lopers, who lost 6-3 and 6-2 at one and two doubles, fell behind 2-1 after a 7-6 (5), 6-1 loss at five singles. However, UNK won the first set in the other five matches to be in good shape.

Lincoln redshirt junior Clare Plachy notched the first team point at six (-3, -4), Colorado senior Alexis Bernthal rolled at four (-2, -4) with Zimbabwe sophomore Tanya Midzi almost winning at the same time at three (-3, -5). Finally, Madagascar senior Narindra Ranaivo closed the door on the 'Bods with a 6-3, 6-2 decision at two. She is up to 178 combined wins, most in school history. At one, 13th-ranked Fabiana Gamboa won the first set over 19th-ranked Renske Ubachs with that match going unfinished.

UNK's starting lineup is up to 651 career combined wins with Ranaivo, Bernthal and Hatouka all in the Top 11.

UNK Women's Tennis #22 Lopers return to NCAA Sweet 16 after road win at Washburn

Story by UNK Athletic Communications

Kearney, Neb. – The Nebraska Kearney track and field team has qualified two women and three men for the <a href="https://results.leonetiming.com/?mid=7870">2025 NCAA Division II Outdoor Championships</a> May 22-24 in Pueblo, Colo.

Based on times and marks achieved throughout the spring, the top 22 in each individual event and the top 16 relays qualified; tiebreakers were used when needed.

Heading to Colorado are Kearney redshirt junior Lily Novacek (1st/hammer), Omaha junior Nick Abdalla (21st/steeplechase), Kansas junior Kenyon Forest (8th/javelin), Hastings sophomore Nolan Studley (4th/high jump) and Gothenburg freshman Madison Smith (7th/discus).

Novacek is in her fourth national meet (one indoor and three outdoor) and aiming to repeat her first-team All-American performance (8th in the weight throw) from this year's indoor championships. She leads D2 in the hammer by 10 feet and hopes to be UNK's sixth AA in the hammer; places one through eight in any event are good for first-team honors with nine through 12 named second-team AA's. Next, Studley returns to this meet after placing 10th last spring. He leaped a career-best 7-1 at the Concordia Invite in early April, cleared 7-0.50 at the Central Nebraska Challenge and recently went 6-8.25 at the Loper Twilight.

Forest also is a two-time NCAA qualifier as he finished 18th in the jav last spring. He had the second-best toss in school history (226-5) at the Loper Invite in mid-April to punch his ticket and had a heave of 214-9 at Concordia. Finally, both Abdulla and Smith are first-time NCAA track qualifiers. Abdalla, who ran at the 2024 NCAA Cross Country Championships, reached Pueblo thanks to a great race at a California Last Chance meet with Smith throwing the discus 164-9 at Wichita State in April. She also won the MIAA title this year with an effort of 156-0.

Fans can follow along with <a href="https://www.ncaa.com/liveschedule/2025/05/22">live video</a> and <a href="https://results.leonetiming.com/?mid=7870">live results.</a>

Many Lopers ranked 23rd-40th in their respective event and were thus close to qualifying. That group included Novacek (discus), Lexington freshman Will Kulhanek (400 hurdles), McCool Junction freshman Kassidy Stuckey (1,500), David City senior Payton Davis (1,500), York junior Brynn Hirschfeld (steeple), Kansas sophomore Tasia Sadler (high jump) and Kansans Wyatt Hammond and Rylan Basart in the javelin.

1:30 p.m. (Central) – Women's hammer (Lily Novacek, Kearney H.S.)

3 p.m. (Central) – Women's discus (Madison Smith, Gothenburg H.S.)

8:30 p.m. (Central) Men's Steeplechase (Nick Abdalla, Omaha South H.S.)

3:45 p.m. (Central) – Men's Javelin (Kenyon Forest, Norton H.S.)

5:45 p.m. (Central) – Men's High Jump (Nolan Studley, Hastings H.S.)

Five Lopers qualify for NCAA Championships Memorial Day Weekend

Area District Track and Field team results from 5-13

B-6 District Track Results &amp; State Qualifiers May 13, Ogallala

Boys District Champion: Chase County, 106 Girls District Champion: Chase County 105

<a href="https://www.athletic.net/TrackAndField/meet/611092/results/all">Full B-6 District Results &amp; State Qualifiers Link</a>

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